Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 21 May 2026

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The World Is Beginning to Leave America and Move Closer to China: Where Is Indonesia Heading?

The world is shifting away from the United States toward China as China overtakes the U.S. in total trade and strengthens its role as a major trading partner for many countries, including Indonesia. The drivers of this shift include China's integrated supply chains, commodity imports and manufacturing exports, and initiatives such as the Belt and Road, with diversification accelerating amid trade tensions.

Immigration: Indonesia Is Not a Safe Haven for People Who Do Not Add Value

Indonesia’s immigration chief says the country will crack down on foreigners who do not bring benefits or break the law, as Golden Visa numbers exceed targets and investment flows rise, reinforcing Indonesia’s stance on safeguarding national interests while attracting global talent and investment.

OpenAI Launches AI Image Verification Tool Based on SynthID and C2PA

OpenAI has launched a new online image verification tool, now in public preview, to detect whether an image was produced by its AI models, including ChatGPT, the OpenAI API, or Codex. The verification system uses a multi-layer approach that combines watermarking with metadata encryption to enhance transparency and trust in digital content amid proliferating AI-generated visuals.

In Front of Students, Pertamina Outlines Strategy to Safeguard Indonesia's Energy Security

Pertamina outlined its plan to safeguard Indonesia's energy supply amid global geopolitics, focusing on optimising domestic resources, boosting oil and gas production, and expanding low-carbon energy. The strategy rests on technology, strategic partnerships, and government fiscal support to accelerate production, while emphasising two pillars: sustaining fossil operations and accelerating low-carbon development. The remarks were made by Emma Sri Martini at IPA Convex 2026 in Tangerang, in front of students.

Rupiah Weakness Signals Bus Ticket Prices Are Set to Rise

The volatility of the Rupiah against the US dollar is starting to affect the land transport sector, with bus operators signaling that ticket prices may need to be adjusted in the near future. Rising maintenance costs due to import component price increases are pushing operators to consider fare adjustments to sustain operations, even as efficiency measures are being deployed to avoid immediate pass-through to passengers.

Purbaya Has Names of 10 Palm Oil Export Manipulation Firms — This Is Their Modus Operandi

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says he possesses the names of ten large palm oil firms suspected of under-invoicing in crude palm oil (CPO) exports. He disclosed the information at the Presidential Palace, citing random checks on shipments and notable price differentials, including an example gap of 57% and another of 200% between export prices and importer payments.

Canva Now Connected to Gemini, Enabling Design via Chat

Canva has integrated its design platform with Google Gemini's AI chatbot, enabling users to create, edit, search and modify Canva designs directly through Gemini chat without opening the Canva app. Announced at Google I/O 2026 on 19 May (US time), the move expands Canva's reach to four major AI chatbots: Gemini, OpenAI's ChatGPT, Anthropic's Claude, and Microsoft Copilot. The feature includes 'Magic Layers' which splits Gemini-generated images into editable layers, and supports applying Brand Kit identities from the first prompt.

Guaranteeing that all pupils can attend school, Kemendikdasmen: SPMB is not a selection

The Ministry of Education, Basic and Secondary (Kemendikdasmen) says the System for New Student Admissions (SPMB) is not a placement test or filter, ensuring every applicant has a chance to enrol. For SPMB 2026, four admission channels—domicile, achievement, affirmation, and mutation—will be used, with planning and local-government involvement to match capacity with demand. The policy is anchored in Article 50 of Permendikdasmen Regulation Number 3 of 2025.

Moody's, America's Credit Giant, Slashes Mexico's Debt Rating to Baa3

Moody's Investors Service cut Mexico's sovereign debt rating by one notch to Baa3, citing a weakening fiscal position amid slower growth and persistent spending, including Pemex support. The outlook was revised from negative to stable, implying no immediate further downgrades, but Mexico's fiscal profile remains fragile at the lower end of the investment-grade spectrum.

No Hajj Without Permit: Saudi Arabia Tightens Nusuk Card Checks

Saudi authorities have launched a widescale 'No Hajj Without Permit' campaign ahead of the peak Hajj period in 2026, implementing multi-layered checks at all entry points to Mecca to ensure pilgrims carry official visas and Nusuk cards. The Indonesian government cautions pilgrims against non-procedural packages, with consular officials reporting aggressive cyber monitoring of illegal promotions; penalties for violations can include deportation and heavy fines. Congestion around Mecca is increasing travel times, prompting some pilgrims to walk long distances to reach the Masjid al-Haram.

Revealed! The 'hellish' peak hours for riding the Jabodebek LRT

Ridership during January–April 2026 concentrates in the 06:00–09:00 window, with Harjamukti Station recording about 6,224 users per day, well above other hubs. The Jabodebek LRT operates around 430 trips daily on weekdays, with peak-hour headways of 8–9 minutes on routes toward Jakarta’s central business district, and Kuningan as the busiest destination.

Meet Prabowo, Purbaya Brings List of 10 Exporters Involved in Under-Invoicing

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa arrived at the State Palace to brief President Prabowo on a report listing 10 exporters suspected of under-invoicing, focusing on palm oil shipments to the United States. He described significant price discrepancies and pledged ship-by-ship verification.

Three Types of Sea Dikes to Be Built on Tangerang's Pantura Coast

The Tangerang Regency government in Banten has announced plans to develop three sea-wall designs—mangrove barriers, breakwaters, and a giant sea wall—as part of the Giant Sea Wall project along 19 kilometres of Tangerang's Pantura coastline. The plan, part of a national strategy, includes research-backed designs and aims to connect coastal protection with broader growth infrastructure across Pantura Jawa.

LBH: Killings in Dogiyai Meet the Elements of Human Rights Violations

LBH Papua says the killings in Dogiyai meet the elements of crimes against humanity and has urged Komnas HAM to declare the incident a gross human rights violation so the Attorney General's Office can investigate. The Easter 2026 clashes in Moanemani left five civilians and a police officer dead, with shootings, arson, and civilian displacement reported, and critics say the response demonstrates systemic human rights failures.

Health Certificate Required for Sacrificial Animals Entering Jakarta to Prevent Disease

Jakarta's provincial government has mandated that sacrificial animals entering the capital be accompanied by a Health Certificate for Animals (SKKH). Officials say the measure is intended to prevent outbreaks of diseases such as anthrax, Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), and Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), by enabling veterinary checks and laboratory testing where necessary. The verification process includes confirming the SKKH with the origin region and on-site clinical inspections by veterinary teams, with further laboratory testing if disease signs are found.

Hiring SPGs Among Housewives Pushes This Livestock Trader's Revenue to Rp 1.5 Billion

At a stall beneath the Ir. Wiyoto Wiyono Toll Road in North Jakarta, housewives working as sales promotion girls for cattle are actively engaging customers, helping explain cattle types, and guiding buyers through the decision process. Psychologist Yuswohady cites warmth bias and the halo effect as factors that make buyers more comfortable and more likely to close deals, enabling higher prices. The arrangement positions SPGs as brand ambassadors, enhancing perceived professionalism and buyer confidence, with turnover reaching around Rp 1.5 billion.

Charoen Pokphand Indonesia Tbk (CPIN) to Pay Rp2.95 Trillion Dividend; Schedule Announced

Charoen Pokphand Indonesia Tbk has approved a cash dividend of Rp180 per share, totaling Rp2.95164 trillion, at the company’s AGM on 20 May 2026. The dividend timetable includes cum and ex dates in early June 2026, with a record date on 4 June and tax considerations for foreign shareholders.

US Charges Former Cuban President Raul Castro Over Murder

Former Cuban President Raul Castro has been charged in the United States with murder, marking a significant escalation in Washington's campaign to pressure the Cuban government. Castro, 94, last appeared in public in Cuba earlier this month, and there is no evidence he has left the country or that he will be extradited to the United States. The indictment concerns the 1996 downing of two planes near Florida linked to the refugee group Brothers to the Rescue, and comes as President Donald Trump has pressed for regime change in Cuba.

Minister Pigai: Indonesia Is Among the Safest Countries Compared With Others

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai claims Indonesia is among the safest countries, pointing to the president’s ability to greet crowds without security disturbances. He cites the 2024 Human Rights Index, where the right to freedom and personal security reached 83.62, and urges stronger media freedom and non-interference in journalism.

UI Strengthens Implementation of the Smart Village Programme as a Solution for Rural Development

UI's Directorate of Community Service and Social Innovation has forged strategic collaboration with the Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs, Lampung Utara Regency, and partner villages to strengthen the Smart Village programme. It frames Smart Village as an ecosystem transformation led by participatory governance and measured by impact, with technology as an enabler alongside four pillars: Smart Economy, Smart Society, Smart Environment, and participatory administration.

OPM Kill Eight Gold Miners in Yahukimo, Habema TNI Military Operations Command Hunts Perpetrators

Eight civilians who were gold miners were killed in Korowai, Yahukimo Regency, in an attack attributed by the OPM to security forces, which Koops Habema disputes. The TNI says the victims were civilians and is evacuating them and pursuing the perpetrators, led by Major Kopitua Heluka and Major Dejang Heluka from the TPNPB-OPM Kodap XVI Yahukimo, with Yamue Battalion. The incident underscores ongoing security tensions in Papua's Highlands.

OJK issues two new regulations to strengthen Indonesia's capital market industry - BCA Sekuritas

The Indonesian financial regulator OJK published two new regulations, POJK Number 3/2026 and POJK Number 5/2026, aimed at strengthening the capital market industry. POJK 3 groups securities companies by capacity into PEKU categories with higher capital requirements, while POJK 5 groups investment managers into MIKU categories and raises capital and assets-under-management thresholds. The measures seek to deepen the market, improve governance and risk management, and bolster investor protection.

Metro Jaya Police harvests hundreds of kilograms of red tilapia in West Jakarta

Polri's Metro Jaya Police, in collaboration with West Jakarta's Polres, harvested 219 kilograms of red tilapia at Palmerah Greenhouse SPPG. The harvest marks the third partial yield, intended to support raw material needs for SPPG Palmerah and broader Polri nutrition programmes. The operation underscores police commitment to national food self-sufficiency and sustainable protein provision.

From the Operating System to the Intelligence System

Google unveiled Gemini Intelligence at Android Show: I/O Edition, introducing an AI ecosystem integrated across Pixel 10 and Galaxy S26 devices. It enables cross-app automation, smarter Chrome assistance, and advanced autofill and voice-to-text features, all with opt-in privacy controls. The suite is designed to save time by handling multi-step tasks in the background while keeping users in ultimate control through final confirmations.

Is Our National Energy Resilience Already Robust?

Indonesia's energy resilience appears adequate in the short term but will need more decisive reforms over the next five to ten years, as heavy dependence on fossil fuels and imports leaves vulnerabilities. The piece cites Indonesia's energy mix (coal 38%, oil 34%, gas 15%, renewables 15.75%) and the shortfall against the 17–19% renewables target for 2025, and argues for a faster energy transition through cleaner smelters, expanded biofuels, EV uptake, and rooftop solar financing, calling for a coordinated, multi-stakeholder effort.

Djaka Budi's Name Dragged into Customs Bribery Case, Purbaya: I Understand What Has Happened

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says he understands the circumstances surrounding the alleged bribery case that has implicated Customs Director General Djaka Budi Utama. He declined to comment further but said he would follow President Prabowo Subanto's instruction to remove Djaka if proven guilty. The case involves BlueRay Cargo owner John Field and several DJBC officials, with a July 2025 meeting at Borobudur Hotel cited in court.

Millions of Dollars in Savings! Researchers Discover a 'Secret Route' to the Moon That Is Fuel-Efficient

An international team has developed a more efficient Earth–Moon routing method using advanced computer modelling based on functional connectivity theory. By simulating 30 million potential routes, they identify a previously hidden trajectory that leverages gravity assists to save about 58.80 m/s of fuel while keeping Earth communications uninterrupted. The study, published in Astrodynamics on 10 April, suggests future work including solar gravity could yield even cheaper routes.

FAO Warns of Food Price Surge Within 12 Months as Hormuz Strait Crisis Bites

The FAO warns that disruptions to energy and fertiliser supplies linked to the Hormuz Strait crisis could trigger a global rise in food prices within six to 12 months, threatening global fertiliser distribution and farming costs. The agency stresses a narrowing window for mitigation and warns that prolonged disruption could lift consumer prices and reduce world food production if farmers cut fertiliser use.

Wav.Tech Launches WAV Mobile to Help Consumers and Dealers Address Rising Counterfeit Watch Risks

Wav.Tech has launched WAV Mobile to extend its AI-assisted authentication capabilities to consumers, collectors, dealers and watch-related businesses. By using industrial-grade microscopes, precision measurement devices and a 30,000-model database, the platform seeks to verify authenticity and reduce uncertainty in purchases and trades, with WAV Mobile priced at HK$700 and verification results at HK$190 each.

Purbaya Goes to the Presidential Palace to Report CPO Export Manipulation to Prabowo

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa meets President Prabowo Subianto at the Presidential Palace to hand over a report alleging under-invoicing and manipulation of crude palm oil export prices. He cites ten companies and says random checks found significant price disparities between export valuations and US import payments, potentially indicating manipulation ship-by-ship. He declined to identify the companies but pointed to gaps of around 57% and even 200% in some cases.

Don't Let Your STNK Be Blocked: How to Confirm ETLE Violations Online

ETLE enforcement via cameras is expanding across regions. Vehicle owners who receive ETLE confirmation letters must promptly confirm; if not, the STNK can be blocked after seven days from the letter being received, and fines not paid within 14 days can also trigger blocking. Blocking STNK causes difficulties in vehicle tax administration and sale, so owners are advised to confirm ETLE promptly after receiving the notice.

Ministry of Environment and Forestry Probes Deeper into Illegal Timber Case at Bukit Tiga Puluh National Park

Investigators are probing the supply chain of illegally logged timber from Bukit Tiga Puluh National Park in Riau after a suspect was nabbed attempting to drain timber from the protected area. They are examining where the timber came from, how it left the park, intended destination, who commissioned or housed it, and whether others benefited, underscoring the park's conservation importance, including habitat for the Sumatran tiger.

iQOO 15T officially debuts with 200 MP camera and 8000 mAh battery

iQOO has officially unveiled the 15T in China, emphasising gaming performance with a 6.8-inch 2K AMOLED display supporting up to 144Hz, a Dimensity 9500 Monster Edition 3nm chipset, and iQOO’s own Q3 gaming chip with real‑time ray tracing. The device packs a 200 MP main camera with 8K video, an 8000 mAh semi‑solid‑state battery with 100W charging, and IP68/IP69 protection, with three colour options and a premium design.

Soeharto's Full Speech from 28 Years Ago: I Resigned from the Presidency of the Republic of Indonesia

On 21 May 1998, Soeharto announced his resignation as President of the Republic of Indonesia, handing power to Vice President BJ Habibie. The move followed widespread demands for reform; in the days around the resignation, 14 ministers refused to serve in the Reform Cabinet, and key aides were summoned as the shift in power approached. The speech stressed reforms carried out in an orderly, peaceful, and constitutional manner, including the establishment of the Reform Committee and changes to the Development Cabinet VII.

Timeline of a Car Driver Beaten in Cibubur After Honking

A car driver was beaten in the Cibubur area after honking at a yellow car that cut into Jalan Alternatif Cibubur; police say the case involved assault and property damage, with the suspect now in custody and charged as a suspect. Evidence collected includes the vehicle, a mobile phone, and the forensic medical examination results.

Tax to be the backbone of the state's fiscal revenue, says Finance Ministry

Taxation is set to be the backbone of Indonesia's fiscal revenue as the government targets significant growth in 2026. The Director General of Taxes says the expansion, together with a disciplined, reform-driven collection machine, underpins Indonesia's economic strategy amid global geopolitical competition.

Inline Skating Coach in South Tangerang Allegedly Harassed a Minor; Case Under Police Investigation

Investigations into allegations that an inline skating coach in South Tangerang abused a minor are underway, with police prioritising the victim’s safeguarding throughout the process. The inquiry covers a known period in South Tangerang and South Jakarta and includes interviews with the victim, family, witnesses, psychologists and digital-forensics experts, to strengthen evidence. Officers urge guardians and communities to report suspected child abuse promptly.

New Cigarette Tax Layer Seen as Potential Boomerang for Attracting Illegal Operators

Indonesia's government plans a new layer in the tobacco excise tariff to lure illegal cigarette producers into the formal system and curb revenue leakage, estimated at Rp60 trillion (about 30% of potential tobacco excise revenue). The policy, due to take effect in June 2026, faces criticism over moral hazard and whether enforcement can be strengthened to prevent continued illicit trade.

MedcoEnergi Strengthens Business Strategy to Withstand Global Geopolitics and Volatility in World Energy Markets

MedcoEnergi unveils a dual-track strategy for 2026, accelerating oil and gas development while expanding renewable capacity, as it seeks to shield its business from geopolitical risk and volatile energy markets. The company reports an 18% rise in Q1 2026 oil and gas production to 170 mboepd and outlines major projects in Sumatra, Sakakemang, Senoro Phase 2A, and the Cendramas block in Malaysia, alongside expanding electricity capacity beyond 1,000 MW.

Cross-border QRIS usage to be expanded to India, Hong Kong, and Timor-Leste this year

Bank Indonesia will expand cross-border QRIS to India, Hong Kong, and Timor-Leste in 2026, aiming for eight partner countries. Domestic QRIS uptake continues to rise while cross-border traffic already totals Rp 2.28 trillion from foreign tourists, underscoring the policy's role in supporting SMEs and overall growth. BI emphasises expansion will boost financial inclusion and SME empowerment.

Harvard Halts Distribution of A Grades to Students, What’s Happening?

Harvard University’s faculty has approved a policy to cap the number of A grades awarded per class at 24 out of 100, under a 20 plus four formula, effective Autumn 2027. The move follows a 2025 internal report that found more than 60% of Harvard grades were A, a sharp rise from about 25% two decades earlier, with the aim of restoring academic integrity. The policy faced opposition from students and raised concerns among faculty about heightened competition and constraint on teaching freedom.

KAI Jakarta operates nine additional train services during Idul Adha holiday

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Daerah Operasi 1 Jakarta is adding nine extra long-distance train services to accommodate rising mobility during the Idul Adha long holiday. The additions expand departure options and ensure seating availability for travellers to and from Jakarta, with services on popular routes such as Yogyakarta, Solo, Bandung, Cirebon, Purwokerto/Cilacap and Surabaya. From 25 May to 2 June 2026, Daop 1 Jakarta will run 68 regular trains daily, plus eight from Gambir and one from Pasar Senen, bringing total seating capacity to 357,320.

Purbaya confident IHSG to rise after investors understand impact of export-focused BUMN

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) should rise once investors understand the impact of an export-focused state-owned enterprise (BUMN). He notes the IHSG correction stems from uncertainty about the new body’s direction, and explains that the project could boost the valuations of listed companies, with a two-phase rollout for PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI).

Cher Turns 80 and Remains a Symbol of a Strong, Independent Woman

Cher, the legendary singer and feminist icon, celebrates her 80th birthday. The article recalls her outspoken views on gender, power, and independence, including early comments on freedom and equality and a famous exchange with her mother. Interwoven with tributes, it notes other celebrity milestones and public moments accompanying the birthday period.

Ministry of Social Affairs auctions 6.2 kg of gold to assist vulnerable families

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs is conducting an open auction of assets including precious metals and gold jewellery weighing 6.2 kilograms and hundreds of pearl jewellery, with a total limit value of over Rp10.18 billion. Proceeds will fund welfare programmes for vulnerable households, including housing improvements and business support, with the auction held online from 13 to 25 May 2026.

Visa and Trip.com Group Ink Strategic Collaboration, Enabling Consumers to Chase Their Passions Through Travel

Visa and Trip.com Group have announced a strategic collaboration, with Trip.com Group becoming a global Anchor Partner for Visa Destinations and integrating it into its travel ecosystem to offer personalised experiences and benefits. The partners will pursue joint marketing and deeper collaborations across Asia Pacific, including premium offerings for Visa Infinite cardholders and smoother travel flows between Mainland China and the region. The move taps into a robust Asia-Pacific travel outlook, with GTI 2026 data showing high intentions to travel within Asia and widespread use of digital payments.

Pedestrian walkway roof at Jurangmangu Station damaged, KRL passengers fear collapse

A damaged pedestrian access roof at Jurangmangu Station in Ciputat, South Tangerang, has caused safety concerns as workers repair the site. The incident highlights ongoing maintenance needs for transit infrastructure and lighting at the access point, with passengers expressing fear of collapse, especially during heavy rain.

Revitalisation, AMPG Targets 2 Million Young Golkar Cadres Through New Leadership

AMPG, Golkar's youth wing, has undertaken leadership revitalisation, with Ubaidillah appointed Secretary General for 2024–2029. The move follows the 14 January 2026 plenary and is intended to strengthen governance and responsiveness to youth and political dynamics. It also outlines a mandate to recruit 2 million young cadres nationwide, supported by organisational audits and enhanced cadre training across Indonesia.

Textile Industry Pressured by Rupiah Weakness, APSyFI Proposes This Policy

The Indonesian textile and textile products (TPT) sector is pressing the government to tighten foreign exchange policy as the rupiah weakens, pointing to higher input costs and reliance on imported intermediate materials. APSyFI supports Bank Indonesia's FX rule changes and calls for linking underlying FX transactions to tax payments to curb illicit imports, estimating significant potential reductions in intermediate imports if import substitution is effective.

Oil Refinery on Track for Sustainable Low Emissions

Pertamina Cilacap's RU IV refinery is advancing a low-emission pathway by adding solar capacity and producing biofuels. The on-site PV will meet about 10-16% of local electricity demand; emissions are expected to fall by roughly 1,680-1,800 CO2 eq per year, equivalent to planting around 35,000 trees. The company also pursues co-processing of palm oil derivatives to make SAF and HVO, positioning Cilacap as a Green Refinery under Indonesia's PSN.

Rupiah Melemah Harga Mobil BYD Naik Sampai Berapa? Ini Kata Manajemen

Rupiah Melemah Harga Mobil BYD Naik Sampai Berapa? Ini Kata Manajemen Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Pelemahan nilai tukar rupiah terhadap dolar AS mulai menjadi ancaman baru bagi industri otomotif nasional, terutama pemain kendaraan listrik yang masih bergantung pada impor komponen dan bahan baku. Di tengah tekanan tersebut, PT BYD Motor Indonesia mengaku belum berencana menaikkan harga jual mobilnya di pasar domestik.

Two-day Global Prosperity Summit 2026 officially opens

Global Prosperity Summit 2026 in Hong Kong opened its third edition with Ambassador Han Zhiqiang delivering a keynote on China\'s Global Governance Initiative, urging stronger multilateralism, solidarity among nations, and a fairer global development order. The keynote stressed rebuilding development at the centre of the international agenda and closing the North-South gap, while HK think tanks discussed APEC cooperation and cross-border networks. Organised by the Savantas Policy Institute, SIIS and EuroCham, GPS 2026 aims to reinforce Hong Kong as a hub for cross-disciplinary dialogue on global prosperity.

IHSG closes down 2.71 per cent to 6,147 in Session I

Jakarta's benchmark IHSG fell 2.71 per cent to 6,147 in the first trading session on 21 May 2026, after an early rise to 6,366.4. All sector indices finished in the red, led by IDXBASIC and IDXENERGY, while the macro policy stance and a Bank Indonesia rate hike weighed on sentiment. The rupiah strengthened modestly to Rp 17,654 per US dollar as the BI rate rose to 5.25 per cent.

General Chairperson of TP PKK Urges Greater Awareness of Safeguarding Women and Children

Tri Tito Karnavian, General Chairperson of TP PKK, urged students in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara, to boost awareness of safeguarding women and children from violence. She emphasised family-based prevention and inclusive communication as key, and urged the younger generation to pursue higher education to help realise Indonesia's 2045 ambitions.

LG unveils the first 1,000 Hz monitor that doesn't drop resolution

LG has unveiled the UltraGear 25G590B, claimed to be the world's first Full HD gaming monitor with a native 1,000 Hz refresh rate. The screen uses a 24.5-inch IPS panel and includes AI features and Motion Blur Reduction Pro, aiming to deliver consistent visuals for esports without sacrificing image quality. It will go on sale in select markets in the second half of 2026, with pricing not disclosed.

Government Plans 3 kg CNG Cylinder Scheme to Replace LPG

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is developing a 3 kg CNG cylinder distribution scheme to substitute LPG 3 kg, to be affordable for the public. The plan would have households borrowing cylinders rather than purchasing them, with exchanges when gas is depleted, and initial pilots slated for major Java cities pending safety tests and SNI certification.

Director-General of Immigration Claims Golden Visa Has Generated Rp 52.1 Trillion in Investment

Indonesia's Director-General of Immigration says the Golden Visa programme has spurred investment worth Rp 52.1 trillion and boosted non-tax revenue by around Rp 19 billion. The policy, launched in 2024 to attract global talent, diaspora and foreign investors, has now issued over 1,200 visas, with authorities emphasising strict monitoring and enforcement against illegal activities.

Danantara to continue honouring existing SDA export contracts

Danantara says it will honour existing long-term SDA export contracts, including for palm oil, coal, and ferroalloys. The government is engaging industry players and associations to ensure smooth continuity, and will review contracts suspected of under-invoicing or misalignment with global prices. Officials say the new SDA export governance regulation will not disrupt coal contracts through 2026, as a transition period with a designated BUMN is implemented to consolidate and reconcile transactions.

iCar V23: Off-Road Sensation in a Retro-Modern Electric SUV

The iCar V23 is a retro-modern electric SUV aimed at active, style-conscious buyers, offering two drivetrain options (RWD and iWD) with up to 155 kW of power and a range of about 430 kilometres (NEDC). It combines iconic SUV design with real off‑road capability and a quiet electric cabin, positioning the model as a lifestyle vehicle rather than a mere city runabout. The launch signals a niche demand for rugged, adventure-ready EVs in Indonesia.

Government summons exporters for briefing on the presence of a dedicated export-focused state-owned enterprise

Indonesia's government will brief exporters on the establishment of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (PT DSI), a state-owned enterprise tasked with handling exports of strategic commodities. The briefing at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs outlines a two-phase framework: Phase I (1 June–31 August 2026) requires shifting transactions to the SOE and contracting with all foreign buyers, while Phase II (from 1 September 2026) places export dealings entirely under the SOE; the move is aimed at strengthening Indonesia's price-setting power for commodities like coal and palm oil.

1,250 Combined Personnel Deployed Ahead of Gibran's Arrival in NTT

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka is scheduled to undertake a working visit to East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) on 21-22 May 2026, with 1,250 TNI-Polri personnel deployed to secure his arrival and stay. He will review national strategic projects, a seaweed farming centre, and salt ponds in Rote Ndao Regency, NTT, and is expected to inaugurate the salt pond facility after arriving at El Tari Airport in Kupang.

50% Discount on Power Capacity Upgrades, Valid Until 2 June 2026

PLN has launched a 50% discount on power capacity upgrades for single‑phase customers across all tariff groups, running from 20 May to 2 June 2026 and processed via the PLN Mobile app. The programme, titled 'MeiLAJU Lebih Terang Bangkit Berdaya, Maju Berjaya!', aims to make home electricity more reliable and comfortable.

Take a Look! How Pertamina Safeguards the Nation's Energy Security

Emma Sri Martini outlined Pertamina’s plan to safeguard national energy security by optimising domestic resources, increasing upstream production and lifting, and advancing low-carbon businesses amid global geopolitical challenges and Indonesia’s status as a net energy importer. The strategy emphasises technology, stronger partnerships, and government fiscal support to accelerate exploration and production, while downstream measures including the national biodiesel mandate aim to reduce imports of refined products. Pertamina also plans refinery revamps and SAF development, and actively engages students and academia as stakeholders in energy resilience.

Export-Focused State-Owned Enterprise Formed, DPR Member Urges Optimisation of Trade Profits

Indonesian lawmaker Ahmad Labib argues that the planned export-focused state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia, is designed to maximise the nation's trade gains from natural resources. He says the move would strengthen governance of SDA trade and improve Indonesia's bargaining position in global markets, while reducing price manipulation and under-invoicing through a more integrated, one-gate export framework.

BPDP says B50 trial results meet quality standards

BPDP announced that test results for B50 biodiesel show moisture content within the standard, with 99.88% of samples meeting the standard of up to 320 ppm. The government aims for a nationwide B50 rollout by 1 July 2026, after trials across several transport modes since late 2025; heavy-duty vehicle tests are complete, with light vehicles due by May 2026, and rail testing due by October 2026. The assessment also outlines challenges, including constrained production capacity and the need to upgrade port, transport, and storage infrastructure, as well as large biodiesel incentives driven by price differences with fossil fuels.

In WHA, BPOM highlights collaboration to foster innovation and confidence in vaccines

BPOM emphasises the importance of science-based regulatory systems, collaboration and harmonised rules to speed vaccine development and bolster public trust, a message echoed at WHA-79. The WHO Director-General announced new WHO-Listed Authorities, reinforcing international recognition of Indonesia's regulatory capacity, as global health leaders discuss boosting local and regional vaccine production.

Ministry of Youth and Sports emphasises KONI's key role in the sports ecosystem

Deputy Minister Taufik Hidayat emphasises KONI's strategic role in Indonesia's sports ecosystem and calls for greater government–KONI collaboration to raise national sporting performance ahead of KONI's 2026 Rakernas and Musornaslub. Marciano frames the National Sports Week (PON) as the apex of elite sport and outlines plans to refine governance documents and harmonise calendars across KONI and its provinces to avoid overlaps.

Indonesian Rupiah Continues to Weaken: What Is the Status of the Hajj Funds?

Despite the rupiah's weakness, BPKH says the haj funds remain safe and under control as investment decisions are made only after rigorous risk, legal, and compliance reviews by a 14-member committee comprising the executive board and the board of supervisors. Current regulations restrict BPKH to low-risk instruments due to lack of capital and loss reserves, but a proposed revision to the Hajj Financial Management Act could enable capital formation and loss reserves, allowing slightly higher risk investments while retaining safety.

Jakarta Warns of Anthrax Threat Ahead of Eid al-Adha as Sacrificial Animals Under Strict Inspection

As Eid al-Adha approaches, Jakarta authorities tighten checks on sacrificial animals amid concerns over anthrax, FMD, and LSD, requiring SKKH and Veterinary Certificates and deploying field inspections; vaccination is also mandated in origin regions. Most livestock come from Java with additional supplies from Lampung, Bali, NTB, and NTT.

Selawat Bus Service Temporarily Halted, Operations Resume on May 31

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the Selawat Bus service in Mecca will be suspended temporarily from 22 May and will resume on 31 May 2026. Pilgrims yet to perform the obligatory Umrah will still have transport to Masjid al-Haram and back to hotels, and all pilgrims are urged to stay healthy and prepare for Armuzna.

Residents Demand Permanent Repair of Landslide-Damaged Kali CBL Bekasi Road, Saying It Poses a Serious Danger to Lives

Residents in Bekasi are urging the government to carry out permanent repairs on a landslide-prone section of Jalan Raya Kali Cikarang Bekasi Laut (CBL) in Cibitung. They criticise temporary soil-and-rock fills as ineffective, warning that the road continues to subside and endangers daily commuters, especially motorcyclists, and could fail again if not properly reinforced. They call for asphalt, wider edges, and the use of soil nails to stabilise the slope.

Strengthen Governance, Baznas Responds to Aceh Zakat Qanun

Baznas RI and Baitul Mal Aceh back reforms to zakat governance in Aceh by harmonising Aceh Qanun Number 10 of 2018. Sodik Mudjahid praises Aceh’s zakat management as a national frontrunner and backs amendments to enhance independence and the distribution authority, urging professionalisation and stakeholder engagement to boost zakat’s development impact.

State-Owned Danantara DSI to Begin Palm Oil and Coal Exports on 1 September 2026

The Indonesian government is finalising technical regulations for the export operations of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (PT DSI), the State-Owned Export Enterprise established by President Prabowo Subianto. A new Permendag under the Government Regulation on the governance of natural resource commodity exports will define the export framework, with a transition period from 1 June to 31 August 2026 and exports restricted to the Export State-Owned Enterprise from 1 September 2026.

Gasoline Cars Could Be Finished Off by Korean Researchers' Findings

A team from Pohang University of Science and Technology (Postech) in South Korea claims to have developed a silicon-based battery for EVs with energy density that is around 40% higher than standard lithium-ion cells, enabling claimed ranges of up to 1,000 kilometres per charge. The technology uses micro-scale silicon with a flexible polymer gel electrolyte stabilised by electron-beam irradiation, offering easier production and lower costs, and avoiding a total overhaul of existing battery factories. If validated, the breakthrough could accelerate the shift from petrol-powered cars to electric vehicles.

Hashim: Prabowo the first President with oil and gas industry experience

Hashim Djojohadikusumo says President Prabowo Subianto is the first Indonesian president to have direct oil and gas business experience, helping him understand investors' needs in energy, including contract certainty and political stability. The former chairman of Hashim's oil and gas company, which operated in Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan over two decades ago, noted Prabowo's exposure to international investment challenges and said this experience will inform his leadership of Indonesia's energy sector as demand is set to rise with population growth, economic expansion, and AI developments.

ATxSummit 2026 Opens with Shared Regional Ambition to Harness AI for Public Good

ATxSummit 2026 opened with a shared regional ambition to harness AI for public good, spotlighting 11 youth projects from the AI Ready ASEAN Youth Challenge tackling healthcare, education, social inclusion and agriculture. Top prizes went to teams from Brunei, Cambodia and Myanmar, and two MoUs were signed to advance AI-powered healthcare: SingHealth-GCIT on an AI-assisted Chest Radiograph model for Bhutan and SGH-A*STAR DxD Hub on scalable multimodal diagnostics. The event, under the AI Ready ASEAN umbrella to boost AI literacy for 5.5 million people, underscores a regional push to scalable, locally relevant AI solutions that improve lives.

Pertamina Supports Creativity and Student Self-Actualisation Through the Energy AdSport Challenge

Pertamina’s Pertamina Goes to Campus programme expands to include the Energy AdSport Challenge, aiming to foster student creativity, sport and collaboration across 51 teams from 19 universities in West Java and Jabodetabek. The programme also features social media and advertising competitions to spur innovative digital campaigns, with a kick-off on 21 May 2026.

Jakarta Encourages Regional Government Agencies to Seek Creative Financing Schemes to Support Local Revenue (PAD)

Jakarta's provincial government is urging regional government agencies (OPD) to pursue creative financing schemes to bolster Pendapatan Asli Daerah (PAD). The move aims to diversify revenue beyond conventional methods, including better utilisation of provincial assets and potential partnerships with third parties or the private sector. Officials say such approaches should return value to the APBD rather than becoming a maintenance burden.

Police investigate alleged child sexual abuse by inline skating coach in South Tangerang

The Metro Jaya Police are investigating allegations of sexual violence against a 16-year-old pupil involving an inline skating coach in the Tangerang Selatan area. Authorities say the investigation is proceeding cautiously with emphasis on protecting and supporting the victim, and evidence including electronic records has been secured. Police call on parents and communities to monitor children and report suspected abuse promptly.

Arriving at the Presidential Palace, Rosan to report BUMN export mechanism to Prabowo

Rosan Roeslani, Indonesia's Investment and Downstreaming Minister, met President Prabowo Subianto at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta to brief him on the mechanism for exporting state-owned enterprises (BUMN). The meeting also drew other economy officials, including the Bank Indonesia governor and ministers, who attended for discussions and potential directives.

Former Public Works Ministry spokesperson becomes Commissioner at PTPP

PTPP's annual general meeting approved changes to the Board of Commissioners and Directors, alongside approvals of financial statements, audit, and amendments to the Articles of Association. The company reported Rp24.95 trillion of new contracts in 2025, with government projects leading the mix, and a diversified sector mix; as of April 2026, new orders stood at Rp6.88 trillion. Corporate Secretary Joko Raharjo said the group will pursue sustainable value creation through prudent strategy, stronger fundamentals and enhanced governance.

Facing Geopolitical Challenges, Indonesia Strengthens Collaboration to Safeguard National Energy Security

Indonesia’s government and Pertamina pledge intensified collaboration to bolster national energy resilience amid geopolitics and rising energy market volatility. The energy minister notes global uncertainty and that Q1 growth persisted, while Pertamina emphasises a path of strategic collaboration, technology adoption, and increased domestic production as the era of easy energy ends.

Forty-seven PTPN subsidiaries to be trimmed

BP BUMN and Danantara are steering PTPN’s consolidation from 65 subsidiaries to 18 as part of a broad streamlining and transformation to strengthen the national plantation sector. The move follows directives from President Prabowo Subianto to accelerate the transformation and ensure focus on core, strategic businesses, with Dony Oskaria emphasising better governance, asset optimisation and increased competitiveness.

Ahead of Zero ODOL 2027, Truck Operators Are Monitored by ETLE to Ensure Load and Dimension Compliance

The government tightens oversight of freight transport ahead of Zero ODOL 2027, urging truck operators to modernise fleets, ensure payload compliance and integrate digital systems to safeguard logistics efficiency and cost visibility. ETLE trials have detected around 90,960 violations since January 2026, with payload violations comprising 57% and documents 43%, and ten firms accounting for a significant share.

Indonesia prepares additional rules for Russian oil imports

Indonesia’s oil ministry says Russian crude imports will require a special regulatory and financing framework, with Pertamina constrained by its global bond obligations. The government is weighing two import routes—direct procurement by a state-owned enterprise or through a BLU—as it advances a plan to import up to 150 million barrels of Russian crude by the end of 2026 following the president’s visit to Russia. The move signals a cautious yet continuing engagement with Russian oil amid Western sanctions.

Detention of Nine Indonesian Citizens by Israel, MUI: Arrest Without Basis Is Kidnapping

Indonesia’s MUI has branded Israel’s detention of nine Indonesian citizens as kidnapping and urged the government to secure their release, including seeking assistance via the Board of Peace. The group, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 humanitarian mission, comprises four journalists and five activists detained on different days; MUI is calling for international solidarity for Palestine and for Israel to end the Gaza blockade and aggression.

Edible Packaging, Fermented Innovations and Next-Gen Foods Take Centre Stage at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026

THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026 returns to Bangkok (26–30 May) with an expanded 12-hall layout and 3,590 exhibitors from 56 countries, highlighting edible packaging, fermentation innovations, and next‑gen foods. The tasteInnovation Show named 10 winners and 50 finalists for originality and commercial viability, and Hall 4 debuts New to Market Street alongside the Future Food Experience+ Stage to discuss topics from precision fermentation to AI-driven production, positioning the event as a key sourcing and market-expansion platform for the global food industry.

This is the busiest LRT Jabodebek station during the morning peak, dominated by commuters heading to Jakarta

Data from January–April 2026 show Harjamukti Station as the busiest departure point during the 06:00–09:00 WIB window, with an average of 6,224 users per day. Most travellers on these departures head to Jakarta's central business districts, with Kuningan and Pancoran among the top destinations. KAI emphasises that services run at high frequency during peak hours to support commuters.

Export of Natural Resources Via State-Owned Enterprises, Danantara Honours Existing Contracts

Indonesia's government has issued a governance rule requiring that exports of natural resource commodities be channelled through designated state-owned enterprises. Danantara Indonesia says existing contracts will be honoured, while pricing and potential under-invoicing will be reviewed under the new regulation. Officials say the measure aims to boost transaction transparency and strengthen the country's foreign exchange reserves.

Economic Crisis Deepens: People Scramble for Chicken and Eggs, Fuel Queues Grow Long

Bolivia’s economy is deteriorating, sparking widespread food shortages and long fuel queues amid anti-government protests and road blockades. The government has pledged cabinet reforms and an inclusive policy response, but shortages and price spikes are persisting and affecting ordinary households.

New Ebola Outbreak Could Become the Worst Crisis of the Decade

A new Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo's eastern region has escalated rapidly, prompting WHO to declare a public health emergency of international concern. The outbreak, driven by the Bundibugyo strain and amid war and reduced international aid, threatens to reverse progress made since the West Africa epidemic of 2014-2016.

JSMR to Pay Dividend of Rp156.2 per Share as Toll Road Business Continues to Grow Positively

Jasa Marga will distribute a Rp1.1 trillion dividend for 2025, equal to 31% of net profit, with payments to shareholders on the register as of 4 June 2026 and a payment date of 19 June 2026. The remainder of 2025 earnings will be retained to strengthen capital and support future expansion. Despite solid full-year 2025 performance, Q1 2026 net profit fell around 16% year on year due to higher financial costs and costs related to new toll segments.

APJII Survey: Indonesia’s Internet Penetration in 2026 Reaches 81.7 Percent

APJII’s 2026 Indonesia Internet Profile Survey shows internet penetration at 81.7% of the population, equating to about 235.26 million people out of 287.30 million. The findings reveal regional disparities, narrowing gender gaps, high uptake among Gen Z and Millennials, and fixed broadband subscribers numbering around 99.5 million.

Cancer Disappears After Biopsy: Rare Medical Case in a 59-Year-Old Woman Astonishes Doctors

A 59-year-old woman from Wisconsin experienced spontaneous disappearance of a myxofibrosarcoma lump on her forearm shortly after a core needle biopsy. After wide local excision, pathology showed no cancer cells, and she remained cancer-free after one year. The report notes spontaneous regression in sarcoma is very rare, and while biopsy-related immune responses may contribute, surgery remains prudent to rule out hidden disease.

Car driver attacker who assaulted motorist over honking in Cibubur faces up to 2 years 6 months’ imprisonment

Police say RG, 40, assaulted a motorist on Jalan Alternatif Cibubur-Cileungsi in Gunung Putri, Bogor, after honking. He faces charges under Article 351(1) KUHP for assault and possibly Article 406 KUHP for destruction, with a maximum penalty of 2 years 6 months’ imprisonment. The investigation has yielded evidence including a black four-door vehicle, a mobile phone with the assault video, and a hospital medical report; the incident occurred early on 17 May when the suspect's child woke up, which he says provoked his actions.

Who Is Drawing Up Indonesia's Digital Map?

The column argues that digital infrastructure is a field of power that shapes national sovereignty. It warns that Indonesia's strategic 5G decisions must avoid entrusting critical infrastructure to a single ecosystem, and emphasizes governance, domestic capacity, and security in the digital transition.

Metro Jaya Police and Jakarta's KPKP Inspect Eid al-Adha Sacrificial Animals at Dharma Jaya to Ensure They Are Free from FMD

Jakarta's Metro Jaya Police and the Jakarta Provincial Department of Food Security, Maritime Affairs and Agriculture (KPKP) conducted inspections of cattle at Dharma Jaya ahead of Eid al-Adha. Officials said preliminary checks found no indications of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) or Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) among the animals, with ongoing document checks and veterinary oversight. About 1,508 of the prepared cattle were deemed ready for sacrifice, as preparation continues under supervision.

In the Face of Global Uncertainty, Government and Pertamina Strengthen Collaboration to Secure the Energy Supply

Indonesia's government and Pertamina are strengthening collaboration to safeguard the national energy supply amid rising global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia noted that geopolitics and geo-economics create uncertainty, even as Indonesia's economy grows in Q1, and stressed the need to pursue non-fossil energy alternatives. Pertamina is emphasising strategic collaboration, faster deployment of technology, and higher domestic production to mitigate global supply risks, including potential disruptions around the Hormuz Strait.

MUI, Islamic Organisations and Philanthropic Bodies Urge President to Seek Release of Nine Indonesian Nationals Held by Israel

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) together with Islamic organisations and national philanthropic bodies have urged President Prabowo Subianto to secure the release of nine Indonesian citizens held by Israel after the seizure of activists aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla. A MUI Crisis Center has been established to coordinate public messages and support, with coordination already under way with the Foreign Ministry as calls grow for a meeting with the president if the captives are not freed soon.

Safeguarding Energy Security, Indonesia Strengthens Collaboration

Indonesia's government and Pertamina commit to reinforcing energy security through enhanced domestic oil and gas production, strategic partnerships, and technology, amid shifting geopolitics. They warn of rising risks to global energy supply, notably through the Strait of Hormuz, and stress the need for sustained investment supported by government policy and collaboration.

Kasera Supports Digitalisation of Indonesia's Salon and Beauty Industry

Kasera, a locally developed salon management platform, is expanding digital services for beauty MSMEs across Indonesia. The system combines online booking with WhatsApp confirmation, an integrated POS supporting QRIS and card payments, stylist scheduling, automatic commission calculations, and daily/monthly operational reports, addressing the fragmentation of the sector. With QRIS adoption rising, Kasera targets small-to-medium beauty businesses through Starter and Professional tiers, including inventory management and automated payments; further details are available at kasera.id.

Jakarta Poised to Become a World Dance Stage as IWDF 2026 Engages Thousands of Dancers and a Cultural Parade

Jakarta will host the Indonesia World Dance Festival (IWDF) 2026 on 30 May, as part of World Dance Day and to mark five centuries of the capital. The event, organised by the Jakarta Culture Office with the Rosmala Sari Dewi Foundation, aims to strengthen Jakarta's image as a global city through cultural diplomacy while boosting the city's creative economy and tourism.

IIMS Surabaya 2026: Blending Automotive, Sport and Entertainment

The Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) returns to Surabaya with a six-day event at Grand City Surabaya from 26 to 31 May 2026, combining an automotive exhibition with sport-entertainment, live music and culinary offerings. The exhibition area has been expanded to almost 12,388 square metres, with a new 1,788-square-metre space dedicated to aftermarket and passenger cars, signalling growth in East Java's automotive market.

BI Rate Rises to 5.25 Per Cent: Here's How the National Banking Sector Responded

Bank Indonesia has increased the BI Rate by 50 basis points to 5.25% as a pre-emptive measure to stabilise the rupiah and the financial system amid global uncertainty. Indonesian banks say they are prepared for policy shifts, emphasising sound risk management and stress testing, with BSI reporting healthy liquidity and growth in CASA, while BRI stresses balance between growth and risk.

Wakapolri emphasises a specialised strategy to confront evolving terrorism threats

Vice Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Dedi Prasetyo, warns that terrorism and extremism have shifted from structured organisations to digital networks, with heightened youth vulnerability. Citing data as of 19 May 2026, he notes 115 children in the True Crime Community and 132 exposed to radicalism, and advocates a layered ecological approach involving families, schools, communities, government and digital platforms under the Rumah Aman Menuju Sekolah Aman framework. Detachment 88 (Densus 88) will prioritise early detection, risk assessment and youth resilience to adapt to the digital era.

Bandung Raya and Mebidang to Roll Out BRT to Ease Congestion

Indonesia's government, with World Bank support, is fast-tracking Bus Rapid Transit projects for Bandung Raya and Mebidang to ease traffic and promote public transport use. The plan includes dedicated lanes, new stops, and ITS support, with the central government building infrastructure and local governments supplying fleets, including electric buses. Full operation is targeted for mid-2027, starting with 18 routes and 256 stops in Bandung Raya.

Supporting the Running Community, bank bjb Opens Access to Dieng Caldera Race 2026 Slots

Bank bjb is promoting sport tourism by awarding running slots in the Dieng Caldera Race 2026 to customers via a savings programme. The promotion runs 11–27 May 2026 with 80 slots for new and existing customers, ahead of the 20–22 June race at the Dieng Plateau; it underscores the bank’s commitment to national sport tourism and provides information through branches, call centre, and website.

The Mediterranean Sea, Nine Indonesian Nationals, and the Credibility Test of International Law

A case involving nine Indonesian nationals allegedly detained by Israeli forces in the Mediterranean raises questions about the credibility of international law and freedom of navigation. The article argues that when geopolitical power politics intrudes, the rules-based order is tested on issues of extraterritorial force, self-defence, and the protection of civilians, with broad implications for global maritime security.

IHSG at Around 6,100 as Danantara-Purbaya Issue This Message to Investors

IHSG hovered around 6,100 after a morning drop of just over 2%, as investors weigh the launch of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (PT DSI), a state-owned export entity. Danantara Indonesia's CIO Pandu Sjahrir says the government will listen to market needs and expects a positive turn once the benefits of the export-focused BUMN are understood; Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa argues that initial declines stem from uncertainty about the actual impact, but envisages a rally as earnings and state revenues rise and under-invoicing is curbed.

Pigai Emphasises Legal Recognition as a Priority in the Customary Law Communities Bill

Minister Natalius Pigai says legal recognition of Indigenous peoples is a top priority in the Draft Law on Indigenous Customary Law Communities, now in the National Legislation Program. The government plans to establish district-to-provincial committees and a National Commission on Indigenous Peoples to provide recognition, protection and empowerment, with a built-in justice system, and to require central and local governments to identify, verify, and validate Indigenous communities through these bodies.

BI Rate Rises; Mortgage Instalments Set to Grow More Expensive

Indonesia's BI Rate rose to 5.25% on 20 May 2026, with forecasts of higher commercial lending costs and non-subsidised mortgage rates. REI warns the impact may be felt gradually over two to three months amid weak purchasing power and potential increases in construction costs due to global tensions.

Police urge the phone thief who stole a content creator's phone at Photobox Green Pramuka Square to surrender

Police are seeking NV in connection with the theft of a content creator's phone at a photobox in Green Pramuka Square; YNT has been arrested in Leuwiliang, Bogor Regency. Berlin's e-wallet and mobile banking were allegedly drained, with losses of about Rp 25 million, and CCTV shows two women at the scene as the investigation continues.

Pertamina Detects 11 Billion Barrels of Unconventional Oil, Here Are the Locations

Pertamina has identified a potential 11 billion barrels in oil-in-place from non-conventional resources in Indonesia and is seeking cross‑sector collaboration and favourable fiscal policy to accelerate development. Pertamina Hulu Rokan also reports 11.3 billion barrels in place in the North Aman sub-basin of the Rokan Block, with Minas and other areas targeted for recovery using advanced techniques. MNK is framed as a strategic pillar to bolster national energy security amid declines in conventional fields.

IHSG Slumps Alone in Asia as Prajogo Pangestu Group Shares Plummet

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed 2.76% lower in the first session on 21 May 2026, dragged by a broad sell-off in energy, utilities and materials stocks, with Prajogo Pangestu group shares among the worst performers after MSCI index changes. The move came as Bank Indonesia raised rates and analysts warned of potential foreign passive fund outflows and heightened government intervention in the commodity sector.

Tamsil Linrung: President's Speech Reinforces the Economic Architecture and the Ideological Direction of Development

Deputy Speaker Tamsil Linrung applauded President Prabowo's address on the Macroeconomic Framework and the Core Fiscal Policy Principles for the 2027 RAPBN, framing it as a reaffirmation of Pancasila economics and distributive justice. He urged state banks, particularly Himbara, to translate the directive into concrete actions to support UMKM, farmers, and regional development, emphasising inclusive growth and reduced interregional disparities. The piece also notes Linrung's praise for rising national rice reserves, signaling macroeconomic confidence.

Persiku Kudus in Turmoil: Stadium Redevelopment and Majority-Share Sale

As the 2026/2027 Liga Championship season approaches, the Kudus-based Persiku Kudus faces internal upheaval: its Wergu Wetan Stadium is set for revitalisation, forcing a temporary base outside the city, while a plan to sell a majority stake to experienced investors aims to professionalise management. With identities and terms yet to be disclosed, the move could mark a turning point for the Laskar Macan Muria and its supporters.

Tasikmalaya City's Sacrificial Animal Purchasing Power Falls 50% Ahead of Eid al-Adha 2026

Health checks found no PMK or LSD among animals at inspected stalls, but consumer demand for sacrificial animals has fallen by about 50% year on year. Authorities are maintaining strict health surveillance, with SKKH documentation and a dedicated RPH prepared to serve those observing halal slaughter ahead of Eid al-Adha 2026.

GoldVerium Expands Precious Metal Investment and Partnerships

GoldVerium opened its first outlet in Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta, on 20 May 2026, aligning with National Silver Day, and unveiled an integrated precious metals investment concept spanning Minigold, Maxigold, Silverium, and Copperium. Founder Edi Hermanto said the GoldVerium brand, registered since 2021, will act as an umbrella for four brands and broaden partnerships through a more integrated distribution network, while emphasising physical assets as a hedge against inflation. The company is developing a digital app with loyalty points and an AI assistant to educate investors and support partner ecosystems.

Zus Coffee Expands into Indonesia with Kapal Api Group

Zus Coffee is expanding into Indonesia through a strategic partnership with Kapal Api Group, with the first Indonesian outlet planned for Puri Indah Mall, Jakarta, by the end of May 2026. The move supports its Southeast Asian growth, backed by a technology-enabled cafe model and plans to tailor offerings to local tastes, including collaboration with Indonesian roaster Taufan Mokoginta. The Kuala Lumpur-based brand, founded in 2019, already operates across several markets and reported more than 8,000 staff and 1,000 stores globally in 2025.

Another stabbing incident reported in the Tomang area, West Jakarta

A stabbing incident occurred in the Tomang Utara I area of Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta, late on Wednesday. Police say it was not a mugging but a personal matter, possibly a love affair, with the suspect identified but at large. The victim is in intensive care and investigators are pursuing the suspect as the case goes viral on social media.

Meta Chief Says AI Won't Replace Humans, Now Sacks 8,000 Employees

Meta has laid off 8,000 workers globally as part of a restructuring to accelerate AI development, despite Mark Zuckerberg's assertion that AI will not replace human labour. The move coincides with Meta's plan to invest over $100 billion in AI this year, with total capex seen at $125-145 billion. The layoffs began in Singapore and are set to affect around 10% of the workforce, reflecting internal tensions as offices shift toward remote working and concerns about job security grow.

Warga Patroli Buntut Heboh 'Pocong' di Cipondoh Tangerang: Dipastikan Hoax

Police in Cipondoh, Tangerang, visited Alfurqon Street after rumours of a pocong sighting; local RT/RW leaders say the claims are hoax. Residents have been conducting nightly patrols from 23:00 to 03:00, and authorities urge calm as the story remains unconfirmed.

Textile Association Calls for Strict Foreign Exchange Controls

APSyFI urged the government to implement stricter foreign exchange controls to stabilise the rupiah, citing reliance on imported raw materials and capital outflows. They back Bank Indonesia’s USD25,000 underlying limit and advocate import substitution with export proceeds obligations; opponents warn of industry pushback. The rupiah has fallen around 6% against the dollar in 2026, trading around 17,700 per USD.

GPCI: Alleged One Indonesian National in Video of Flotilla Activists Forced to Kneel

GPCI cannot yet confirm whether any Indonesian nationals feature in the circulating video, but steering council members believe one person may be present due to clothing similarities. The organisation says nine Indonesians were detained by Israeli forces; it is coordinating with the Foreign Ministry to pursue repatriation and seeking further video evidence to confirm identities.

Anggun Becomes Golden Visa Recipient, Reveals Contributions on Returning to Indonesia

Indonesian singer Anggun, now a Golden Visa recipient, says she has returned as a local resident (warlok) and will pay taxes in Indonesia with an NPWP. She argues the Golden Visa can entice diaspora to return, boosting the economy and national research, and explains that her previous move abroad was to pursue an international career amid discrimination; the programme enables a homecoming.

Pertamina Backs Energy AdSport Challenge at ITB to Unleash Student Potential and Creativity

Pertamina is staging the Energy AdSport Challenge at ITB as part of its Pertamina Goes to Campus 2026 programme, offering a platform for university students to explore sports and digital creativity while fostering collaboration. The event, held 19–20 May 2026 in Bandung, West Java, aims to energise and empower the next generation of energy leaders. The initiative also includes competitions in social media activation and advertising, with a broader kick-off on 21 May 2026.

Immigration Directorate-General issues 1,274 Golden Visas with Rp52 trillion in investment realisation

The Directorate General of Immigration under Kemenimipas has issued 1,274 Golden Visas as of 18 May 2026, realising Rp52.1 trillion in investments, surpassing the 1,000-visa target since July 2024. The policy is highlighted as boosting investor confidence and contributing to state revenue, with the United States and a range of other countries among the top recipients; the government emphasises cross‑sector collaboration and ongoing improvements to ease doing business and attract investment.

Results of KazanForum 2026 - Siaga Indonesia

KazanForum 2026 in Kazan gathered participants from 99 countries and 75 Russian regions, with about 10,000 in its business program and 163 agreements signed, underscoring growing Russia–Islamic World economic ties. The events covered Islamic finance, halal industry, transport, IT, and a slate of intergovernmental talks, including activity with Indonesia and other partners; it aimed to expand reliable transport and financial routes for investments. Officials said the forum would continue at the Russia–ASEAN Summit, highlighting broader regional cooperation.

Sadang Lama Toll Gate Demolished, Access Routes Redirected in Phases

Since April 2026, traffic has been redirected from the Sadang Lama Toll Gate to the Sadang Baru GT as PT Jasamarga Japek Selatan continues with access arrangements at the Sadang Interchange on the Jakarta-Cikampek II South Toll Road. The next phase involves demolishing the Sadang Lama GT and preparing Ramp 5 and Ramp 7 for operation at SS Sadang, with detour routes in place to maintain mobility; existing routes remain available for Jakarta- or Bandung-bound traffic. Works will be carried out in stages, prioritising safety and smooth traffic flow, according to Agus Susilo of Jasamarga.

Rail Electrification Key to Keeping KRL Reliable Amid Rising Urban Mobility

Electrification of rail is deemed essential to maintain the reliability of KRL services as urban mobility continues to rise. PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) argues electric-based technology can increase capacity, shorten travel times, and cut urban emissions, with the process coordinated with the DJKA of the Ministry of Transportation. Recent data show substantial growth in urban mobility and daily KRL journeys across Jabodetabek, underscoring the need for expanded power supply and strengthened infrastructure.

Jakarta Needs Cross-Agency Synergy to Build a Culture of Archival Awareness

The Jakarta Provincial Government’s Archives and Library Service (Dispusip) says cross-agency collaboration is essential to foster a culture of archival awareness that supports Jakarta’s development. Nasruddin Djoko Surjono emphasises that strong, well-managed archives underpin better decision‑making, learning for future generations, and reliable public services, and calls for electronic systems like e-Office and Arjuna to drive transformation and public trust.

AI and the energy crisis take centre stage at ITPLN's 48th graduation

ITPLN's 48th graduation highlighted how AI and the accelerating energy transition are reshaping work and geopolitics, urging graduates to be adaptable, innovative, and resilient. The ceremony also featured remarks by Prof Iwa Garniwa and Henri Togar Hasiholan Tambunan, who stressed humanity and social responsibility alongside technical skill.

Scientists Can Now Study Dolphin Genetics Without Physical Contact

A Frontiers in Marine Science study shows seawater samples can be used to map the genetic diversity of entire dolphin populations without touching the animals. The approach collected 126 two‑litre samples near Santa Catalina Island in late 2021, with results showing high concordance with existing genetic data, supporting wider, cheaper, and more animal-friendly monitoring, though current flows can muddle historical DNA.

IHSG Slips Back into the Red Zone as Brokerages Abandon Conventional Trading Systems

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) slipped back into the red on Thursday, 21 May 2026, after opening weaker. By 09:09 WIB it had fallen 19.52 points, or 0.31%, to 6,298.98 amid ongoing selling pressure. Volatility has prompted brokerages to shift away from conventional, static trading interfaces toward AI-powered, real-time systems designed to respond more quickly and impose automatic risk controls such as stop-loss and take-profit limits.

Bahlil Confirms No Cut in Gas Export Quota for 2026

Indonesia’s Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured there will be no reduction to the gas export quota in 2026, to sustain the investment climate amid global geopolitical and geo-economic uncertainty. All export approvals have been signed and domestic energy demand will be met without disrupting existing contracts; the government is also urging domestic off-take to guarantee offtake for new projects and SKK Migas to accelerate licensing.

Indonesian Navy hosts three Pakistani combat fleet in Jakarta

The Indonesian Navy welcomed three Pakistani warships at Tanjung Priok in North Jakarta on May 19. The operation assistant of Kodaeral III, Colonel Boy Yopi Hamel, said the visit goes beyond a technical stopover and signals stronger bilateral ties, with hopes to deepen cooperation and cultural exchange with the Pakistan Navy. The Pakistani delegation, led by Commodore Omar Farooq, held talks at Kodaeral III, and the schedule included friendly matches, an onboard diplomatic reception, and ship tours for TNI AL personnel and the public.

Kali CBL Road in Bekasi Slumps Again, Vehicles Unable to Pass

Kali CBL Road in Bekasi has slumped at multiple points along a roughly 12-kilometre stretch, with at least three landslides since March 2026. The damaged roadway shows cracked concrete and subsidence, prompting local residents to mark the danger with tyres and timber as traffic becomes wary and potential accidents loom.

The Government Will Continue to Oversee the Release Process of Nine Indonesian Citizens Detained by Israel

Indonesia will continue to pursue the release of nine Indonesian nationals detained by Israel, including four journalists and five activists; the Foreign Ministry says protecting citizens is a top priority and that it is coordinating efforts with the Global Sumud Flotilla to secure their safe return.

Ministry says under-seven pupils can still enter primary school

Indonesia's Ministry of Education, Basic and Secondary Education has updated the age rules for primary school entry, allowing six-year-olds (down to five years six months by 1 July) to enroll if they show intelligence or exceptional talent and psychological readiness, with confirmation from a trusted psychologist. The changes come under Permendikdasmen Number 3 of 2025 on the New Student Admission System and were welcomed by DPR Commission X, which notes past protests over age-based refusals. The revised draft law also states that age is no longer a barrier to education.

Bahlil Teases East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud, Who Is Going Viral

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, who is also the Golkar chair, teased East Kalimantan Governor Rudy Mas'ud during the IPA Convention in Tangerang. He praised ENI and Petronas' discovery of a new gas block, then quipped about the governor’s current viral status and urged him not to back down amid ongoing policy controversies, including purchases of a government car and renovations to the governor's official residence.

Jakarta Provincial Government Urges Regional Government Agencies to Compile History Books Within Their Institutions

The Jakarta Provincial Government is urging each regional government unit to begin compiling and documenting history within their institutions as part of preserving memory and history. The initiative, highlighted by Nasruddin Djoko Surjono, head of the Jakarta Department of Library and Archives, emphasises that archives underpin a city’s identity, policy continuity, and informed decision-making as Jakarta nears its 500th anniversary.

MUI Describes Israel as Brutal and Violating Human Rights in Detention of 9 Indonesians During Humanitarian Mission

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) condemned Israel's detention of nine Indonesian nationals involved in a Gaza humanitarian mission as brutal and in breach of international law. It called for their immediate release and urged investigations by the UN Security Council and the International Criminal Court or ICJ, while prompting continued global solidarity with Palestine.

Anticipating Cyber Threats, The Electronic Signature Ecosystem Needs Strengthening

AkuSign is strengthening the certified Electronic Signature (TTE) ecosystem amid AI-powered cyber threats. It announced a collaboration with the Indonesian IT Association (AITI) to accelerate education and cross-sector adoption. The move stresses that legitimate use requires PSrE-certified services and highlights the fragility of scanned wet signatures under AI manipulation.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry Condemns Israel Over Detention of Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 Volunteers

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry condemned Israel's interception of the Gaza Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0, calling it a breach of international humanitarian norms. It is coordinating consular assistance for Indonesian nationals detained and pressing for their swift release through diplomatic channels.

Police uncover Rp137 billion worth of cocaine in Skims products owned by Kim Kardashian

British authorities say a lorry bearing Skims goods from the Netherlands concealed 90 packets of cocaine, with an estimated value of about US$8.4 million. The driver, a Polish national, pleaded guilty to drug trafficking and was sentenced to 13 years and six months; investigators believe the cocaine was loaded during a 16-minute stop, with links to an organised crime network. The case underscores how criminals exploit legitimate logistics channels to move drugs across borders.

Supporting Student Creativity, Pertamina Organises the Energy AdSport Challenge

Pertamina's PGTC 2026 programme features the regional Energy AdSport Challenge at Bandung Institute of Technology on 19-20 May 2026, bringing 51 teams from 19 universities across West Java and Jabodetabek to compete in mini soccer and 3x3 basketball. The programme also includes Social Media Activation and Advertising Competition to harness students’ creativity, with a kick-off on 21 May and activities such as Energizing Talk and Energy Debate Championship, aiming to cultivate young talents and collaborative leadership in the energy sector.

UMI and Ruijie Networks collaborate to accelerate digital transformation

UMI's digital transformation is being expedited through a strengthened collaboration with Ruijie Networks of China, aiming to create a modern, connected, and intelligent campus and to build a new higher-education ecosystem aligned with global developments. University leaders emphasise urgency for tangible, integrated digital initiatives across academic, administrative, student services and research ecosystems as UMI pursues World Class University status.

Centralisation of Natural Resource Exports Is Not the Right Solution

Indonesia plans to centralise natural resource export through a one-stop mechanism involving state-owned enterprises, announced in May 2026. While the aim is to curb underinvoicing and boost state revenue and transparency, critics warn it could distort markets, undermine monetary stability, and invite rent-seeking by powerful actors.

Trans Flores Route Fully Cut Off by Landslide

Five days of traffic disruption on the Trans Flores route after a 17 May landslide severed the road linking Pota and Riung. The blockage is at Kampung Nanga Lok, Golo Lijun, Elar, Manggarai Timur, with police attributing it to heavy rainfall. A temporary detour via residents’ gardens exists but is slippery and muddy; travellers are urged to exercise caution as heavy rains continue across Manggarai Timur and other parts of NTT.

Prabowo to Control Exports of Natural Resources via Danantara, Will the DMO for CPO and Coal Be Abolished?

Indonesia's trade minister says the new framework for natural resource exports will not scrap the domestic market obligation (DMO), which currently applies to CPO and coal. A state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI), is slated to handle exports once the DMO is fully implemented, with a new Permendag due soon. President Prabowo had announced plans for a government regulation and a dedicated export-focused BUMN; the policy signals tighter central control over commodity sales.

BPKH Reveals the State of Hajj Funds Amid Volatile Rupiah

The Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) says the rupiah's weakness against the US dollar does not threaten haj funds because this year's foreign currency needs were secured earlier while rates were stable. The agency stresses prudent, low-risk investments under the current legal framework and hopes for regulatory reform to permit capital formation and loss reserves, enabling slightly higher risk holdings. The main challenge remains currency fluctuations affecting operational costs, but there is no impact on this year's haj programme so far.

AirNav Ensures Readiness to Handle Navigation Disruptions

AirNav Indonesia has affirmed its preparedness to handle GNSS RFI-related disruptions to aviation navigation. The agency notes that GNSS RFI is a recognised safety concern under ICAO, and it has implemented comprehensive standard procedures. Signal accuracy and integrity are reinforced through augmentation technologies—ABAS, GBAS, and SBAS—layered to cope with varied field conditions.

Danantara Guarantees Export-Focused State-Owned Enterprise Will Not Disrupt Exporters’ Contracts

Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, who is both the Minister of Investment and Downstreaming and the CEO of Danantara, said PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (PT DSI) will become the sole manager of Indonesia's strategic-commodity exports and will respect existing long-term contracts. He noted price terms are not yet set and the company could engage in those negotiations later, reviewing contracts if prices fall below world market levels or if there are signs of under-invoicing.

Can the US 'Golden Dome' intercept hypersonic missiles? Russia and China issue strong reactions

Russia and China have jointly condemned the United States' plan to build a missile defence system dubbed the 'Golden Dome', warning it could destabilise global strategic balance and spur a new arms race. In a statement after a Putin–Xi meeting, Moscow and Beijing criticised Washington for pursuing a large-scale, layered global defence system that could alter the balance of global power. They also warned that the policy risks space militarisation and a fresh generation of arms competition.

TNI: Eight gold miners killed in Papua in OPM attack

Eight civilians were killed after an attack by the OPM in Korowai, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Highlands, on 20 May. The assault is attributed to the TPNPB-OPM Kodap XVI Yahukimo group, with units from the Yamue Battalion. The TNI condemns the killings as a violation of law and human rights, says it will pursue the perpetrators, and has mobilised evacuation and security patrols for civilians in the area.

Truck Operators Back Zero ODOL by 2027, But Call for a Middle Ground

Truck operators broadly back the government's plan to implement Zero ODOL by 2027 but demand accompanying economic measures to avoid burdening companies and drivers. Aptrindo, together with government and cargo owners, is pursuing a 'middle ground' approach to determine feasible vehicle capacity, tariffs, and regulatory adjustments as the policy is rolled out.

PKS Says It Never Involved Itself in Projects While in Opposition During the Jokowi Era

PKS insists it did not participate in government projects during its opposition to Jokowi. Mardani Ali Sera argues for professionalism and merit-based oversight, warning against political meddling in development. The remarks come amid Prabowo's praise for Megawati's economic guidance and discussions on cross-party coordination.

Digitisation of the Land Administration System Seen as Key to Preventing Agrarian Conflict

The article notes that strengthening the national land regime and digitising land data are essential to uphold legal certainty, protect the rights of communities, and bolster trust in state institutions. A National Dialogue Forum on land governance (20 May 2026) brought together academics, law enforcement, the government, and civil society to discuss integrated data and enforcement measures as land disputes grow. Officials emphasise stronger document validation and cross-agency collaboration, with digital certificates and a national land data integration programme aimed at reducing conflicts and improving transparency; a Balikpapan case involving alleged document forgery and embezzlement of immovable property was cited as illustrating the stakes.

Indonesian Elderly Hajj Pilgrim Missing in Mecca Since Last Week, Not Yet Found

Indonesian authorities are continuing an extensive search for Muhammad Firdaus Akhlan, a 72-year-old pilgrim from Kloter JKG-27 who vanished in Mecca after leaving his hotel on 15 May. Multiple search teams, CCTV reviews, and hospital sweeps are underway, with officials urging calm, verification of information, and offering support to his wife while the search continues.

Prajogo Pangestu's listed companies slump as IHSG slides

Shares of Prajogo Pangestu's group slumped in early trading after MSCI index changes prompted outflows. The IHSG fell about 2.8% to around 6,143 by 11:46 WIB, with most stocks in the red and trading activity strong. Chandra Asri Pacific led losses, down 14.66%, among others including Barito Pacific, Petrosea, CUAN, and CDIA.

Java Enters PMK Red Zone, Here Are the Rules for Selling Sacrificial Animals

Java has entered the PMK red zone, with authorities tightening biosecurity for the Eid al-Adha cattle trade. Quarantine officials inspected 275 cattle arriving at Tanjung Priok from Nusa Tenggara Timur, enforcing a strict one-way policy and mandatory disinfection to protect Java’s PMK-free status. A dedicated 24-hour task force will monitor livestock movement to prevent PMK, LSD and other diseases during Eid al-Adha.

Johns Manville Announces John Vasuta as New Chief Executive Officer

Johns Manville (JM), a global building products and specialty products manufacturer owned by Berkshire Hathaway, has announced that Bob Wamboldt will retire and be replaced by John Vasuta, who will serve as President and Chief Executive Officer from 1 August 2026. Vasuta, who joined JM in 2019 as President of the Engineered Products division, will lead the company as it continues to build on its 168-year legacy and strengthen relationships with customers and employees.

DKI Jakarta Education Office confirms diploma clearance is not merely symbolic

Jakarta's head of the Provincial Education Office says the diploma clearance programme is real and measurable, not merely symbolic, and will run through data collection, verification and aid distribution. The scheme aims to reunite diplomas with eligible graduates to restore confidence and facilitate employment and further study.

Johns Manville Announces John Vasuta as New CEO

Johns Manville named John Vasuta as its new chief executive, succeeding retiring Bob Wamboldt. Vasuta, who joined JM in 2019 as President of Engineered Products and serves on EJ's board, will steer the Denver-based insulation and building-products maker as it continues its 168-year history under Berkshire Hathaway ownership. Wamboldt, who led JM since 2020 and oversaw three business lines, retires after a tenure during which the company progressed across its markets.

BPOM wins National Archival Award 2026 with an AA rating

BPOM has again been honoured at the National Archival Awards 2026, receiving an AA 'Very Satisfactory' rating in the Ministry/Agency category (Cluster II) based on the 2025 archival oversight results. BPOM's head, Taruna Ikrar, said the award reinforces ongoing commitments to accountable performance through robust records governance. The ceremony occurred at ANRI's Archival Coordination Meeting on 20 May 2026, amid the 55th Archival Day celebrations and discussions on digital government reform.

Senior Republika Journalist Dies as Mourners Flood Cemetery

Veteran Republika journalist Joko Sadewo died on 20 May 2026. His funeral at Parung Bingung Public Cemetery in Depok drew hundreds of mourners, reflecting his warmth and willingness to help younger colleagues. He was known for his engagement with political issues, and his loss is felt deeply by Republika and the Indonesian journalism community.

DPR's Hajj Oversight Team Finds 2026 Hajj Officials More Friendly and Responsive

An Indonesian DPR Hajj Oversight Team member says staff are more friendly and responsive in 2026, with improvements spanning departure at Soekarno–Hatta to arrival in Jeddah. He highlights affirmative government policies prioritising medical care and enhanced support for women and the elderly, plus the Mecca Route fast-track that reduces crowding, and urges expanding these enhancements in the next Hajj season.

ShopeePay Users Can Now Send Money Without Admin Fees

ShopeePay Indonesia has launched a campaign offering zero admin fees for transferring money to banks and e-wallets, alongside up to 25 free top-ups per month and up to 5 free cash withdrawals per month at participating retailers. Company President Director Eka Nilam Dari said the move removes hidden costs and makes digital payments more accessible to Indonesians, from consumers to micro-enterprises. The programme aims to curb the impact of small recurring charges that can accumulate, potentially saving users significant sums over time.

BRIN Chief: The Wisdom of Researchers Is Irreplaceable by AI

BRIN head Arif Satria warns that AI, however advanced, cannot replace the wisdom and conscience of researchers. Speaking at a ceremony appointing research professors in Jakarta, he urges caution against dehumanisation as science and technology advance, and calls for confidence in Indonesia's values and realities to become a globally respected producer of knowledge.

Sokoguru Policy Forum: An Examination of Strategies for Strengthening National Energy Resilience and the Energy Transition

The Sokoguru Policy Forum, organised by Pertamina and the Sustainability Center of Universitas Pertamina (SCUP), convened at Grha Pertamina, Jakarta, on 19 May 2026, to discuss cross-sector strategies for bolstering national energy policy and supporting Indonesia's sustainable energy transition. Key speakers emphasalled the need for energy self-sufficiency, downstream development, and data-driven policy, with Pertamina outlining its role within a national strategic framework.

BYD's First Hybrid Car Price in Indonesia Circulates; Here’s a Price Hint

Speculation over BYD's first hybrid car in Indonesia, the M6 DM, suggests a price range of IDR 310–390 million across five variants. BYD Indonesia says the figures circulating are not official, having been circulated as an 'indication price' to dealers to guide early orders. The M6 DM, launched 18 May 2026, features Dual Mode technology with a 1,500 cc petrol engine and an electric motor, and is claimed to achieve up to 65 km per litre and over 1,800 km combined range, with up to 300 km on pure electricity.

Mars Flyby: NASA's Psyche Spacecraft Successfully Executes Gravity Assist Toward the Golden Asteroid

NASA's Psyche spacecraft is heading to the metal-rich asteroid 16 Psyche, with composition details expected in 2029. On its Mars flyby, it passed within 4,609 km of the planet to test its imaging instruments and gather data, using a gravity assist to adjust its trajectory, while also testing communications technologies and other instruments.

Fertiliser and Fuel Costs Rise, Malaysia's Oil Palm Replanting Slows

Rising fertiliser and fuel costs are hindering Malaysia's oil palm replanting efforts, fueling concerns about global palm oil supply as demand for vegetable oils remains high. With crude palm oil prices up about 10% since February 2026, many farmers are opting to maintain existing canopies rather than invest in replanting, potentially delaying productivity gains in the sector.

BYD Tech-Culture Fest Held at GBK: Visitors Can Test Drive for Free

BYD launches the BYD Tech-Culture Fest at GBK Senayan in Jakarta, offering free access to facilities and test drives of its electrified vehicle line-up. The event features multiple interactive zones and marks the start of a national tour across Indonesia.

Introducing System Shift: Scientists Assert Economic Disruption and Geopolitical Conflicts Do Not Emerge Overnight

Prof. Raymond R. Tjandrawinata unveils System Shift, a framework arguing that large-scale economic and geopolitical changes unfold gradually as underlying structures shift rather than erupt abruptly. The book outlines three layers of analysis and thirteen practical tools to help readers recognise where a system is moving and anticipate pressures before effects surface.

Baznas, UNFPA plan reproductive health education for pesantren

Baznas chairman Sodik Mujahid hosted UNFPA in Jakarta to discuss a programme on adolescent reproductive health education in pesantren, aiming to balance local religious values with violence prevention. The plan could extend beyond schools to reduce maternal and infant mortality among low-income residents and to counter risks associated with teenage sexuality, with Baznas mobilising alms to fund healthcare and maternity services and an MoU to formalise collaboration.

Young and Wealthy, Old and Secure: Find Out the Answer Here

The article promotes Insurance Class at Jogja Financial Festival 2026, highlighting life insurance as essential for mitigating financial risks across age groups. It outlines sessions with OJK, AAJI and IFG, and underscores the festival’s aim to boost financial literacy and inclusion among youth through workshops, educational classes, and a Run D-City charity run.

Deal! PGN Secures Gas Sale and Purchase Agreement, Here Is the List

PGN, the Pertamina Gas Subholding, signs multiple gas and LNG supply agreements on the sidelines of IPA Convex 2026 to integrate piped gas with LNG sources, strengthening reliability of domestic gas supply and supporting Indonesia's energy demand amid global energy dynamics.

Revealed: Safe House Used by Murder Suspects' Gang in Jogja

Police in Yogyakarta have arrested three suspects in the murder of an 18-year-old near SMAN 3 Jogja. The suspects were detained at a safe house in Cilacap, which police say also served as a gathering place for a motorcycle gang linked to a fatal assault in Bantul. Authorities are still pursuing three more suspects and have urged the parents to surrender their sons.

DPR Hajj Supervisory Team Finds Flooded Rooms for Pilgrims and Faulty Lifts at Mecca Hotel

During a surprise inspection in Mecca on 20 May 2026, the DPR's Hajj Supervisory Team found multiple facility problems at the Buruz Hidayah Hotel, including a faulty lift, flood-damaged rooms, and insufficient musalla, wudu, and laundry facilities for about 1,800 pilgrims in a single tower. The team urged long-term, contract-based hotel selection and improved amenities, while praising the year's catering quality.

Indonesia condemns Israel's actions against Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 volunteers

The Indonesian government has condemned Israel's inhumane actions against volunteers aboard Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0, stating they breach international humanitarian law. The Foreign Ministry says it will continue to work to secure the release of Indonesian citizens detained as part of the incident.

Man stabbed in West Jakarta goes viral; initially thought to be a mugging victim, turns out to be a dispute over a romance

A man in West Jakarta was stabbed; police say it was not a mugging but a personal dispute likely linked to a romance matter. The victim is receiving medical treatment; authorities have identified a suspect and are pursuing him, while urging the public not to jump to conclusions before official statements.

Director-General of Immigration Affirms Indonesia Is Not a Safe Haven for Online Gambling

Immigration Director-General Hendarsam Marantoko stated that Indonesia is not a safe haven for online gambling and that authorities will continue to deter such activity. Detentions and arrests were reported in Batam and West Jakarta, and police previously raided a judol operation on Hayam Wuruk, arresting hundreds of foreign nationals. Indonesia will maintain oversight of foreign entrants via the Timpora unit, emphasising that only law-abiding, beneficial foreigners may reside in the country.

State elementary school in Kemadang, Tanjungsari, Gunungkidul burglarised; two projectors stolen

Two projectors and an Infocus projector screen were stolen from a state primary school in Kemadang, Tanjungsari, Gunungkidul, with authorities suspecting the burglary occurred when the school was quiet. The estimated loss is Rp 10.8 million. Police believe the intruder gained access through the headteacher's room by prying the door and then entered the staffroom, and are reviewing CCTV and witness accounts.

Ministry of Industry equips SPPG operators with a food safety system

The Indonesian Ministry of Industry has provided HACCP-based food safety training to managers of Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG), via BSPJI Pontianak, to promote safe, hygienic, and high-quality nutrition services and bolster public trust and national industrial competitiveness.

Massive wildfire consumes almost a third of Santa Rosa Island, California; rare ecosystem under threat

A massive forest fire has scorched nearly a third of Santa Rosa Island in Channel Islands National Park, California, threatening dozens of endemic plants and animals, including the endangered Torrey Pine. Cal Fire says the blaze began on Friday and has grown to about 17,000 hectares, marking it as the state's largest wildfire this year with containment at 26%. Firefighters evacuated 11 staff from the park and the island remains closed to visitors while authorities investigate the cause.

Indonesia Investment Authority appoints three new directors, including former Mandiri Sekuritas chief

The Supervisory Board of the Indonesia Investment Authority (INA) has appointed three members to the Board of Directors, naming Oki Ramadhana as Chairman and CEO, Laksono Widito Widodo as Director and CIO, and Adhiputra Tanoyo as Director and CRO. The appointments become effective after the completion of required formalities, commence five-year terms for 2026–2031, and conclude Eddy Porwanto’s interim roles while he remains CFO. The move underscores INA’s commitment to a disciplined investment strategy and long-term development goals.

Jakarta continues to push transformation of electronic records management

Jakarta's provincial government is accelerating its digital archiving transformation through the e-Office application and Arjuna to safeguard the government's policy records. Documents managed by OPD units are rising rapidly, with incoming e-Office letters projected to reach 457,641 in 2025 and Arjuna registrations to 160,000 by 2026; officials stress a cultural shift toward digital workflows and faster, more transparent archiving.

Harita Nickel Builds Water Conservation Facility in Kawasi to Meet Local Needs

Harita Nickel, which has operations in Kawasi on Obi Island, North Maluku, is partnering with the local government to establish a raw water conservation facility to support Kawasi residents. The project, still under construction, aims to separate and provide clean water and potable water, with an initial supply of 25 cubic metres per day, as it grapples with high local water demand; the initiative includes protection of the Kawasi spring, involvement of ITB soil experts, and compliance with PUPR regulations, with operations expected to commence mid-year.

The Secret of Abell 2029: the 'Calmest' Galaxy Cluster That Harbours a Colossal Cosmic Collision

New analyses from Chandra reveal a giant spiral structure and pockets of cooler gas, implying Abell 2029 is still stabilising from a major merger around 4 billion years ago. The study suggests gas heating is not driven solely by the central supermassive black hole in IC 1101; the aftermath of the ancient collision also helps prevent the gas from cooling too quickly. The central black hole is estimated at about 18 billion solar masses, with additional clues from ALMA and XRISM about the cluster's history.

Can a 5.25 per cent interest rate lift the rupiah?

Column examines whether Bank Indonesia's 5.25 per cent policy rate can strengthen the rupiah. It explains that exchange rates depend on more than policy rates, including interest rate differentials with the US and global risk sentiment, and notes that international tensions and safe-haven flows can undermine the impact of higher rates on the rupiah.

Phone thief who targeted a content creator at Photobox Green Pramuka arrested; one suspect remains at large

Police in Jakarta have arrested a suspect identified as YNT in Leuwiliang, Bogor Regency, in connection with a mobile phone theft at a Photobox in Green Pramuka Square; a second suspect remains at large. CCTV footage had previously shown two women at the scene, with one previously involved in a similar case. The stolen device, a Samsung Z Flip 7, was valued at around Rp 17.5 million, contributing to total losses of about Rp 25 million.

Hundreds of billions disbursed for the social security protection of Indonesian Navy personnel

ASABRI disbursed hundreds of billions of rupiah in social security benefits to Indonesian Navy personnel in 2025, and expanded its social collaborations with naval units nationwide. The payments covered Old Age Savings, Work Accident, Death, and Pension benefits, with pensions also including cash value contributions. The programme aligns with Government Regulations 102/2015 updated by 54/2020 and supports Sustainable Development Goals through social and environmental initiatives with the Navy.

Volvo Indonesia's Path: Hybrids, EVs, and the Local Market

Volvo Car Indonesia reaffirms its commitment to electrification, continuing to offer hybrids XC90 and XC60 due to Indonesia's charging infrastructure and consumer habits, while signalling a multi-path approach toward future EVs. The group emphasises that global product strategy remains heavily oriented toward pure electric vehicles, with EX60 not yet arriving in Indonesia.

June 2026 Public Holidays and Collective Leave Schedule: Check the Public Holiday Dates Here

The Indonesian government has issued a Joint Decree of Three Ministers outlining national public holidays and collective leave for 2026. In June 2026, only two national holidays are scheduled (1 June for Pancasila Day and 16 June for Islamic New Year 1448 AH), with no collective leave days allocated for June; other holidays occur later in the year, including Idul Adha, Vesak, Proclamation Day, and Christmas.

Low-Cost Fare Scheme Scrapped, Observer Highlights Dual Impact on Drivers and Users

The scrapping of the cheap-fare subscription for online transport partners could raise drivers' incomes but may dampen demand, potentially offsetting gains. The policy change comes with a 20% commission cut criticised by drivers, while Grab Indonesia says the move aims for a sustainable ecosystem; consumer discounts remain for GrabBike Hemat, and welfare programmes continue.

Boosting Disaster-Area Tourism: Japan Opens the World’s First Pokemon-Themed Airport

From 7 July 2026, Noto Satoyama Airport in Ishikawa Prefecture will be renamed Noto Satoyama Pokemon With You Airport for three years, featuring 111 Pokemon characters and a Pokemon-themed design across four storeys. The project, linked to disaster-affected communities and supported by the Pokemon With You Foundation, includes express and sightseeing bus links to Pokemon attractions on the Noto Peninsula and aims to bring joy to children affected by disasters.

Novita Hardini says cultural investment drives regional economy

Novita Hardini argues that investment in culture has ripple effects on the creative economy and regional tourism, urging collaboration among the legislature, state-owned banks, and local communities. She announced a Rp400 million CSR grant to the Dongko Cultural Activists Institute in Trenggalek, East Java, highlighting the Dongko Cultural Field as a creativity hub and cultural guardian, marking a crucial first step to renew the face of the arts sector.

Gerindra: Prabowo's Remarks on PDIP and Megawati Reaffirm Commitment to National Reconciliation

Gerindra spokesperson Bahtra Banong framed Prabowo Subianto's praise for PDIP and Megawati as a clear message in favour of democracy and checks and balances. Prabowo's DPR speech also stressed reconciliation with the opposition and the need for PDIP to operate outside the government, while outlining a macroeconomic framework and a pledge to reduce poverty in 2027. The report also notes internal party dynamics, cabinet reform expectations, and discussions of pro‑labour policy within Gerindra.

Minister Pigai: Ministers Request the TNI and Polri to Fill Civil Service Posts

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says the President has never ordered the TNI or Polri to occupy civil service posts. He alleges that active-duty personnel entered civil roles because civil officials themselves asked them to, rather than any presidential directive. Pigai accuses some ministers of recruiting TNI-Polri into civil service, arguing the practice stems from civilian ministers rather than a direct instruction from Prabowo.

DKI Jakarta DPRD's Bapemperda begins deliberations on the Draft Regional Regulation for Women's Protection

The Jakarta DPRD's Bapemperda has begun deliberations on the Draft Regional Regulation on the Protection of Women, with the initial draft outlining 13 chapters and 49 articles and potential additions, including sanctions. The discussion will resume next week after the Legal Bureau finalises sanction provisions to strengthen government protection for women in Jakarta. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo stressed that the Raperda should cover multiple forms of violence against women and underpin an integrated service framework, with implementing regulations to follow.

Four morning habits that can help reduce dementia risk

Recent research cited by Eating Well suggests four simple morning habits before 10am may support cognitive health and reduce dementia risk, by improving sleep quality, hydration, blood flow, mood, and focus. The four habits are exposure to morning sunlight, drinking a glass of water after waking, light physical activity, and planning three pleasant things for the day, alongside overall healthy lifestyle tips.

Chopstick factory in Tangerang gutted by fire

A chopstick manufacturing plant in Kampung Melayu Timur, Teluknaga, Tangerang, Banten, was gutted by a blaze on Thursday morning. Firefighters, supported by 30 personnel and seven fire engines, contained the fire after about eight hours, with no casualties reported. Investigators suspect an electrical short circuit as the likely cause.

Chopstick factory and Shopee parcel warehouse in Tangerang gutted by fire

A chopstick factory and Shopee’s parcel warehouse in Kampung Melayu Timur, Teluknaga, Tangerang, burned on Thursday morning, 21 May. Firefighters deployed 30 personnel and seven fire engines; the blaze lasted around eight hours and destroyed three buildings; investigators suspect an electrical short circuit at the chopstick factory as the cause. No casualties were reported.

This Radio Station Announces the Death of King Charles III, Then Apologises for Incorrect Information

A UK radio station, Radio Caroline, briefly announced the death of King Charles III due to a computer error at its Maldon studio in eastern Essex. The station halted broadcasting and issued an on-air apology; the misreport occurred while King Charles III and Queen Camilla were in Northern Ireland to watch an Irish folk performance. The broadcaster referenced the Marine Broadcasting Offences Act of 1967, noting pirate radio stations closed thereafter; Radio Caroline had previously operated offshore before ending offshore transmissions in 1990.

Video: Data Infrastructure Strengthens the Digital Economy’s Competitiveness

OceanBase continues to expand its distributed SQL data infrastructure to support Indonesia’s rapidly growing digital economy, with clients including Alipay, Touch 'n Go Malaysia and DANA. The interview highlights opportunities in Indonesia’s data infrastructure development, while noting that scalability, availability and operational complexity remain key challenges for distributed data businesses.

Mother and Daughter Become Cross-Province Gold-Theft Specialists to Fund Splurges and Car Installments

A mother and daughter have been arrested in Dompu, NTB, accused of cross-provincial gold thefts targeting jewellery shops across NTB, Bali, and Java over the past year. Authorities recovered two gold bracelets and a ring; the suspects say the thefts were to fund a lifestyle and to cover car loan payments. They face up to seven years in prison under Article 477 of the Indonesian Criminal Code, with police probing possible links to a wider network.

The national budget (APBN) must be steered toward the interests of all segments of society

Civil society figures convened to watch and discuss the film Pesta Babi in Jakarta, using the event to critique public budget governance and the distribution of wealth, especially in Papua. Speakers warned against the state shifting from its role as a distributive and just institution towards electoral manipulation, and stressed the need for inclusive spending, transparent governance, and sustainable regional development.

Prabowo's Speech in the DPR Seen as a Symbol of a Modern Reawakening to Safeguard Natural Wealth

Prabowo Subianto's address to the Parliament is described by Azis Subekti as a symbol of a modern revival in how Indonesia manages its natural resources, framing the 2027 RAPBN. The remarks are read as a broader rethink of the nation's economic trajectory, underscoring concerns about wealth, capital flight, and export mispricing amid a rich yet underperforming domestic economy.

Motive Behind Cibubur Car Driver's Attack Linked to Honking That Woke Child

An argument between two car drivers in Gunung Putri, Bogor Regency, over a long honk ended with one man assaulting the other. Police say the suspect, who had a baby in the car, became emotional and punched the victim; the case is under investigation after the victim filed a police report. The incident, which circulated on social media, is being probed by Gunung Putri police.

Harkitnas: BRIN Chief Urges Researchers to Break Free from Western Epistemic Trap

BRIN head Arif Satria, speaking at the inauguration of a research professor in Jakarta, calls for an epistemic awakening to transform Indonesia from knowledge consumer to producer. He warns against the Western epistemic trap that treats science as neutral and purely technical, urging researchers to integrate human values, wisdom and biodiversity into transformative research.

Telkom (TLKM) Sets 2026 Growth Target, TLKM 30 Transformation, and Dividend Outlook

Telkom Indonesia reported 2025 revenue fell 2.2% and net profit slid 20.5%. It unveiled a 2026 growth target in the low-to-mid single digits, anchored by the TLKM 30 transformation and the Rp35.8 trillion InfraNexia spin-off, with capex of 15–20% of revenue and a debt/EBITDA target of 0.9x. The dividend outlook hinges on the 2026 AGM, with a base-case around Rp143–144 per share depending on the payout policy.

Gerindra: Thanks to PDIP Demonstrates Prabowo Respects the Opposition

Bahtra praises the president's remarks on democracy and the opposition as a sign of mature, inclusive leadership and the checks-and-balances principle. Prabowo, meanwhile, thanks PDIP for its role outside government during a macro-fiscal briefing, emphasising the need for unity and a balancing force in parliament as Indonesia pursues its national economic agenda.

JCI Slumps Linked to Export-Focused State-Owned Enterprises, Purbaya Speaks Out

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa commented on the Jakarta Composite Index's slump, which fell around 2% this morning amid discussions of a new export-focused state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (PT DSI). He argued the drop stems from market participants' lack of understanding of the potential benefits of the export-focused BUMN, and that the index should rebound once investors grasp the policy's real impact. He said the export SOE could boost corporate earnings and state revenue, and help close under-invoicing; he predicted listed firms would see spillover gains and higher valuations.

Analyst: Abolition of Economy Fare for Ojol Tariffs Could Damp Demand

A transport analyst warns that scrapping the economy fare for ojol may depress user demand and intensify competition among drivers, potentially failing to improve driver incomes. Grab Indonesia defends the move as a sustainable ecosystem adjustment, with GrabBike Hemat remaining available alongside government coordination on Presidential Regulation No. 27 of 2026.

Four Days On: Why Is the Plastic Warehouse Fire in West Jakarta Difficult to Put Out?

A plastic warehouse fire in Kapuk, Cengkareng, West Jakarta, has continued for a fourth day. Firefighters face challenges as plastic items are buried under rubble and a collapsed roof, preventing water from reaching the flames; excavators are used to break apart debris while drones monitor hot spots. The operation involves 18 fire units and 90 personnel, with no definite end in sight.

OK Bank records positive performance growth in 2025

OK Bank posted positive growth in 2025 across assets, funding, lending, and profitability. Assets rose to Rp13.42 trillion, loans to Rp10.73 trillion, and third-party funds to Rp8.98 trillion, with net profit up to Rp159.98 billion and improvements in RoA and RoE. The bank highlighted asset quality, risk management, and digital transformation as pillars of its strategy for sustainable growth.

A Major Threat Haunts Gen Z as the Future Grows Bleaker

A wave of AI-driven disruption threatens Gen Z as firms curb hiring and push for efficiency through AI adoption. The piece outlines layoffs at Standard Chartered, Meta, Amazon and Block, and highlights surveys showing rising anxiety among young people entering work, as well as expert warnings that AI will touch every profession and aspect of daily life.

Nine Indonesian Nationals Detained in Israel, MUI Urges Foreign Minister to Prove BoP Is Useful

Indonesia's MUI has urged Foreign Minister Sugiono to prove that Indonesia's membership of the Board of Peace (BoP) is useful in securing the release of nine Indonesian nationals detained by Israel during the Global Sumud Flotilla. If BoP cannot take action, MUI says President Prabowo Subianto should resolve the matter promptly, or risk the safety of the detainees. It also says MUI leaders may initiate talks with humanitarian groups in ASEAN and beyond to press their case.

Police arrest bag thief who stole from pickup driver at Jembrana petrol station

Police have detained a 55-year-old man identified as I KM alias Fery for stealing a shoulder bag from a pickup driver at a petrol station in Jembrana, Bali. He confessed during questioning, and police recovered cash, a mobile phone and other items; the investigation is ongoing. The incident occurred while the driver was refuelling and changing a punctured tyre.

Trump Says Negotiations Are Now in the Final Stage, Threatens to Attack Iran Again!

US President Donald Trump says negotiations with Iran are at the final stage and hints at action if no peace deal is reached, after halting Operation Epic Fury to pursue a ceasefire. Talks to end the war have progressed little, with Trump suggesting he was close to ordering renewed strikes but deferring to allow diplomacy; Iran's IRGC and Israel have warned of regional escalation.

Jakarta Education Office: Data collection for KJP recipients remains a challenge

Nahdiana, head of the Jakarta DKI Education Office, emphasised that the core challenge is ensuring KJP recipient data are accurate, up-to-date and properly targeted. The recipient data are linked to multiple social databases and are regularly verified with schools and the education department, with public reports prompting re-verification and cross-agency data matching. The Jakarta government continues refining the KJP programme to align with digital learning needs, rising education costs, and the community's socio‑economic conditions.

UN Official: One Civilian Killed Every 14 Minutes in Armed Conflict

The UN's humanitarian affairs office reported that last year, one civilian was killed every 14 minutes due to armed conflict worldwide, with higher tolls in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Ukraine, the occupied Palestinian territories, and other places. Leaders of the Inter-Agency Standing Committee warned of rising violations of international humanitarian law and human rights, the targeting of civilians including children, and the widespread destruction of homes, schools, hospitals, and critical civilian infrastructure, as well as increasing famine linked to sieges; more than 1,000 humanitarian workers were killed in the last three years, underscoring failures to enforce laws and hold perpetrators to account.

Traffic Towards Cikampek Congested as Contraflow on KM 23-28 Reintroduced

Contraflow operations on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road (Japek) KM 23-28 toward Cikampek have been reintroduced to ease traffic flow amid ongoing maintenance and rising volumes. The arrangement, beginning 21 May 2026, is applied situationally with real-time monitoring by JTT and police, and drivers are urged to plan journeys and ensure vehicle readiness and sufficient electronic toll balance.

Bandung City DPRD Commission I Pushes for Stronger Oversight of Digital Content and Creation of a Code of Ethics for Social Media Creators

The Bandung City Council’s Commission I calls for stronger oversight of digital content and a code of ethics for social media creators, citing risks from sensationalism, privacy breaches and manipulation of online content. It welcomes central government measures on Tunas Komdigi and urges ethical standards and legal compliance to protect the public, especially children, while warning against excessive political branding online.

6 Foods That Can Help Prevent Colorectal Cancer

Rising colorectal cancer cases among younger generations prompt Yale Medicine surgeons to urge under-45s to seek prompt medical advice for potential symptoms. The piece highlights lifestyle and dietary factors linked to younger-onset disease and outlines a plant-based, fibre-rich diet to help lower risk, with implications for Gen Z, Millennials and Gen X. It also covers symptoms, genetic risk considerations, and screening guidance for those with a family history.

Oil Edges Up as Markets Remain Shadowed by Iran and the Strait of Hormuz

Oil prices edged higher on Thursday after earlier sharp declines as US President Donald Trump delayed a strike on Iran, reviving hopes for diplomacy amid Middle East tensions. Prices were lifted by concerns over supply disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz and by policy moves on sanctions, with markets focusing on geopolitics and inventory data.

Why Are Women More Vulnerable to Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease?

A UC San Diego study analysing data from over 17,000 middle-aged and older adults finds that women not only face higher dementia and Alzheimer's diagnosis rates, but are more affected by several modifiable risk factors. The findings suggest sex-specific prevention strategies may be more effective, focusing on cardiovascular health, depression management, physical activity, and other cardiovascular risk factors.

Tri Tito Emphasises the Importance of Parenting Practices to Prevent Stunting

TP PKK Chair Tri Tito Karnavian urged prioritising parenting education and child nutrition to curb stunting and to help Indonesia reach its Golden Era in 2045. He noted persisting stunting in some areas despite access to nutritious foods, attributed partly to gaps in parental knowledge about child-rearing and meal preparation, and stressed the need for early character education as part of building a resilient workforce for the future.

Investment Governance Must Be Adaptive to Technological Developments - Bandung City DPRD

Bandung City DPRD member Eko Kurnianto emphasised the need for investment governance that is transparent, accountable, and adaptive to technological developments to spur local economic growth. He spotlighted the OSS RBA and LKPM initiatives, run by DPMPTSP Bandung, as strategic tools to strengthen the investment climate through risk-based oversight, enhanced legal certainty, and ease of doing business. He argued that tech-enabled, data-driven governance will attract investment, create jobs, and raise regional revenue, while underscoring continued collaboration among government, businesses, and communities.

Gold Prices Today 21 May 2026: Antam's Products Soar, Global Prices Mixed

Antam's gold bars are priced at Rp 2,800,000 per gram on 21 May 2026, up 35,000 rupiah per gram from yesterday. The buyback price is Rp 2,604,000 per gram. Prices for various sizes range from 0.5 gram at Rp 1,450,000 to 1,000 gram at Rp 2,740,600,000, with tax rules applying to sales; globally, spot and futures prices show mixed movements amid inflation concerns and higher rates.

Pigai outlines the main points of the Indigenous Peoples Bill

The Indonesian Human Rights Minister, Natalius Pigai, said the Indigenous Peoples Bill centres on formal recognition, protection and preservation of adat communities, and the creation of a National Commission on Indigenous Peoples to resolve disputes. The draft, prepared with input from indigenous groups, was submitted to the DPR’s Legislation Body about two months ago, signalling a shift in how adat communities are recognised in law.

DKI Jakarta DPRD Member: Waste Management Must Not Rely Solely on Central Policy

A member of the DKI Jakarta DPRD called for greater budgetary support for the Environmental Service Offices in five administrative cities, arguing that waste management cannot depend on central policy alone. He urged strengthening governance from district and sub-district levels to speed up handling and reduce the burden on Bantargebang as waste volumes rise.

North Jakarta sacrificial-animal stalls hire SPGs in cowboy outfits, paid Rp 200,000 per day

Stalls selling sacrificial animals beneath the Ir Wiyoto Wiyono Toll in North Jakarta employ Sales Promotion Girls (SPGs) dressed in cowboy outfits to promote, inspect, and manage livestock ahead of Eid al-Adha. The piece profiles Ella, a 52-year-old SPG, highlighting informal labour in the livestock trade and how pay and duties are arranged.

Krom Bank (BBSI) Posts Rp70 Billion Net Profit in Q1 2026

Krom Bank Indonesia Tbk (BBSI) posted a net profit of Rp70 billion for the first quarter of 2026, marking a 99% year-on-year increase. The bank also reported credit disbursement of Rp9.88 trillion and a sharp rise in third-party funds to Rp10.86 trillion as it pursues digital banking growth and stronger risk management.

Chair of DPR Commission X invites women to become drivers of practical innovation

Chair of the Indonesian House of Representatives Commission X urges women in East Kalimantan to become drivers and pioneers of practical innovation, in collaboration with BRIN and BRIDa. The move aims to empower women from home to research responsibilities, expand access to research literacy, and support female MSMEs through advanced collaborative research and BRIN funding and scholarships.

I'm Not Steve Jobs from China

Lei Jun, Xiaomi's founder, rejects being dubbed the 'Steve Jobs of China' and has criticised how the media shapes Xiaomi's image. He voiced his discomfort in a 2013 post on Xiaomi's official blog, arguing that Xiaomi and Apple are fundamentally different. He also challenged biased labels like 'baofahu' and 'shanzhai' and noted that the Journal subsequently stopped using the latter.

DPR Member Warns Kertajati Could Be Perceived as a US Military Base Masquerading as a Hercules Aircraft MRO Hub

A member of Indonesia's Commission I warns that Kertajati Airport's proposed maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) hub for US C-130 Hercules aircraft could be perceived as a US military base. He calls for transparent, clearly defined regulations to protect civil aviation and ensure constitutional and international stance considerations in the negotiations.

Revision of the Human Rights Law to Regulate the Right to a Clean and Healthy Environment

Indonesia is revising the Human Rights Law to enshrine the right to a clean and healthy environment and to expand protections such as online privacy (including the right to be forgotten). The government plans to detail the strengthening of four national human rights bodies and aims to complete the revision by 2026, with a strong emphasis on broad public participation.

No Longer Relying on Bantargebang, Jakarta DPRD Calls for Waste to be Resolved at the Kelurahan Level

Jakarta's regional lawmakers, led by Nabilah Aboe Bakar Alhabsyi, have urged a reform of the city's waste-management system, pushing for local handling to be addressed at the kecamatan and kelurahan levels rather than relying on Bantargebang's TPST. They propose pilot areas across each city administration to demonstrate sorting, organic-waste processing, and Waste-to-Energy options, with greater budgetary autonomy for the Environmental Service at the five administrative cities.

Tehran insists that no vessel can pass through the Strait of Hormuz without coordination with Iran

Tehran has announced the creation of a controlled maritime zone in the Strait of Hormuz, mandating ships to coordinate with Iranian authorities and obtain permission before crossing. The zone stretches from Kuh-e Mubarak to the southern UAE's Fujairah at the eastern entrance, and from Iran's Qeshm Island to Umm al-Quwain at the western entrance, with a map released outlining the area. Iran says it will work with Oman and international organisations to establish a mechanism to ensure safe passage, in a context of mounting regional tensions and a fragile ceasefire mediated by Pakistan.

Immigration Generates Rp52 Trillion in Investment Realisation from Golden Visa Issuance

The Golden Visa programme has generated substantial investment realisation and non-tax state revenues, with 1,274 Golden Visas issued as of 18 May 2026. Recipients include the United States, China and several other countries, underscoring Indonesia's bid to attract high-quality investment and bolster global competitiveness.

28 Years of Reform: The Rupiah's Strongest in the SBY and Habibie Era, When Will It Be Weakest?

On the 28th anniversary of Indonesia's reform era, the Rupiah traded around Rp17,665 per US$ on 21 May 2026, about 57% weaker than at the start of reform. The article traces the currency's downturns across major episodes—1998, 2001, 2008, 2015, 2018, 2020, 2024–2025, and 2026—driven by global shocks and domestic political uncertainties, underscoring ongoing volatility and exposure to external factors.

DTSEN: The Key to Ending Overlaps in Zakat and Social Assistance Disbursements

Indonesia's poverty challenge persists, with 23.36 million people living in poverty and 2.38 million in extreme poverty as of September 2025. In 2025 the government allocated Rp147.2 trillion for social protection, while Islamic philanthropic channels through ZIS-DSKL amounted to Rp44.288 trillion, underscoring zakat's potential to complement public welfare. The article advocates for DTSEN-enabled interoperability between government aid and zakat programmes to reduce duplication, directed at improving targeting and impact, supported by regional pilots and national policy momentum.

Apply for CT Corp Job Openings at Career Corner JFF 2026 — Same-Day/Next-Day Psychometric Test Tomorrow!

CT Corp is expediting recruitment at Career Corner during the Jogja Financial Festival 2026, with applicants who apply today scheduled to undertake a psychometric test tomorrow or the day after. Ten CT Corp subsidiaries—including allobank, Mega Finance, Trans F&B, Bank Mega, Bank Mega Syariah, detikcom, Trans Media Sosial, CNBC, CNN, and Trans TV—advertise vacancies, open to SMA, D3, and S1 graduates of any discipline, with some positions requiring specific qualifications. The process involves registering via detikEvent to obtain an E-ticket, applying on Career Corner, and attending the on-site psychometric test at Jogja Expo Center, with entertainment options at the festival.

Facts Behind Viral Report of a Model Mugging in West Jakarta: No Incident, Police Confirm Hoax

Police in Jakarta have debunked a viral claim that a model identified by the initials ADV was mugged near the Kebon Jeruk toll road in West Jakarta. After clarifications, authorities found no evidence, no official report, and no patient records linking ADV to any crime. The investigation continues to determine the source of the misinformation, while the model is offered psychological support.

Roy Suryo Confident Jokowi's Diploma Case File Won't Be Completed

Roy Suryo, a suspect in the Jokowi diploma case, argues the case file will not be declared complete, insisting Jokowi's bachelor’s diploma is fake and possibly non-existent. He cites a book alleging Jokowi's diploma does not exist and questions the authenticity of Jokowi's thesis. Jokowi's lawyer says he will attend the trial with all his diplomas from SD to S1, while police continue the investigation of five suspects; SP3 has been issued for three others.

Indonesia presents UniLeague program at UN World Football Day event

Indonesia's deputy UN envoy promoted UniLeague at a UN World Football Day function, framing the university league as a vehicle for youth development, mental health, and peace-building in line with the 2030 Agenda. The initiative seeks to turn football into diplomacy, linking matches in Jakarta and Bandung with skills development and community resilience, and aligning with the UN's #Football4MentalHealth campaign.

Is Kopi Luwak Really From Civet Faeces? A Look at Its Legality in Islam

An Indonesian coffee piece examines whether Kopi Luwak comes from civet faeces and surveys Islamic legal opinions on its halal status. It traces Kopi Luwak’s origins, the processing that ends with beans excreted by civets, and the debates among Shafi'i, Hanafi and Hanbali scholars on whether the beans are pure or najis.

Investment Minister Ensures Stability of Global Investor Confidence as Geopolitics Intensify

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani reaffirms the government's commitment to safeguarding foreign capital flows amid intensifying geopolitical risk, emphasising closer collaboration with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin Indonesia) and macroeconomic resilience as key to sustaining investment momentum in 2026.

Anita Tanjung Warns CT Arsa's Top-Performing High School Graduates Not to Rely on Diplomas Alone

During a visit to China to study technology trends, Anita Tanjung said AI and robotics are already displacing human roles, and that diplomas alone will not prepare graduates for the future. She urged CT Arsa Foundation students to be adaptable, innovative and agile, highlighting the Foundation's impact with 2,011 graduates and 98% entering Indonesia's top universities such as ITB, UGM, UI, IPB and more.

Beware of Child Predators Behind Popular Games: Tips for Safe Play on Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite

A Thorn report finds that a quarter of under-18s have experienced online sexual solicitation to obtain something of value in games. Experts warn that predators operate across platforms with direct messaging and public chats, including Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite; no platform can be considered completely safe. The piece offers practical parental steps and stresses the importance of balanced gaming to preserve social and cognitive benefits.

Human Rights Group Report: Global Sumud Flotilla Activists Tortured with Electric Shocks in Israeli Detention

A human rights group has released a report alleging Israeli authorities tortured activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla in custody, including electric shocks and psychological abuse. Several activists were hospitalised; Indonesian nationals are among those detained, and the case has drawn international attention as the Gaza blockade's humanitarian impact persists.

Can We Live Without AI?

The piece argues that AI has become deeply embedded in everyday life by 2026, and avoiding it would erode efficiency across sectors from higher education and logistics to healthcare and banking. Citing a The New York Times experiment by AJ Jacobs, it contends that living without AI would be more difficult than living without digital technology in the past, as AI now permeates even routine tasks.

Trenggono Announces Major Update as Indonesian Fishermen's Prospects Set to Change Dramatically

The Indonesian government, led by Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, is pushing ahead with the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih programme, replacing conventional ice blocks with slurry ice to preserve fish quality and uplift coastal welfare. With 65 of 1,000 planned villages completed, the initiative aims to boost production, incomes, and employment while planning expansion to thousands more coastal communities by 2029. The impact will be assessed over the next one to two years, with broader aquaculture development foreseen.

West Java Provincial Government Ensures Adequate Supply of Eid al-Adha Sacrificial Animals for 2026

The West Java provincial government confirms a sufficient stock of sacrificial animals for Eid al-Adha 2026, noting higher numbers of sheep and cattle than last year, and ongoing health checks and vaccination to ensure safe slaughter. Inspections and ante- and post-mortem checks are planned ahead of Eid.

Micro Businesses Need More Than Financing — They Also Need Mentoring

PNM's Mekaarpreneur programme expands financing with structured business incubation and mentoring for ultra-micro entrepreneurs. The approach is already yielding results, with beneficiaries like Yuliana Dewi Putri developing new products and winning regional competitions, underscoring the value of capacity-building alongside funding. The programme signals a broader shift toward empowerment-driven growth for Indonesia's micro businesses.

From 30 Years of Data, Scientists Uncover the Behaviour of the South Java Coastal Current

A 30-year study by BRIN's Climate and Atmospheric Research Centre and the Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security Research Centre, in collaboration with Padjadjaran University's Department of Marine Science, reconstructs the dynamics of the South Java Coastal Current (SJCC). The research shows SJCC strength and reach are modulated by global climate phenomena such as the Indian Ocean Dipole and ENSO, with 2023 representing an extreme case of simultaneous positive IOD and El Niño causing notable suppression of SJCC and a Sea Level Anomaly of around -16 to -17 cm off southern Java. Findings have important implications for regional climate prediction, heat transfer, and coastal fisheries management.

HKI emphasises industrial estates' strategic position to spur the economy

HKI argues that industrial estates hold a strategic position to drive national growth by increasing investment, advancing industrial value chains, and boosting exports while creating jobs amid global uncertainty. HKI chair Akhmad Ma'ruf Maulana urged accelerating licensing, clarifying land-use rules, strengthening energy and logistics infrastructure, and aligning central and regional policies to sustain investor confidence and the economy. The inauguration of HKI's new Jakarta secretariat by Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita highlighted the sector's role in supporting growth, with the minister emphasising integrated infrastructure and downstreaming as key long-term pillars.

Tesla confirms support for Supervised FSD features for the Chinese market

Tesla confirms that its Full Self-Driving (FSD) Supervised system now supports the Chinese market. A launch timetable for local customers has not been disclosed; the company is also updating its regulatory and product approach in China, with ongoing talks for full FSD approval in Q3 2026 and updated FSD features in the V14 line.

The 'Cockroach' Movement Gains Momentum in India

A satirical political movement calling itself the Cockroach Janata Party has attracted online attention after the Indian Chief Justice criticised youth as 'cockroaches' during a hearing. The movement, now planning a large virtual conference and facing hacking attempts, raises questions about Gen Z activism and the boundaries between satire and real political mobilisation in India.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Launches 3+1 SMK Class for Working Abroad

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has unveiled a 3+1 Overseas Employment Class for SMK to prepare vocational graduates for the global labour market. The launch coincides with the graduation of 3,000 SMK graduates and 600 from training institutes who will work abroad, with the extra year focusing on language, work culture, and protections under the law. The programme is already being piloted at 49 SMKs across the country and involves partnerships with the armed forces and psychology teams to bolster readiness.

Foreign Minister Says Indonesia Is Negotiating Directly with Somali Pirates to Free Four Indonesian Hostages

Indonesia's Foreign Minister has said the government is engaging directly with Somali pirates to secure the release of four Indonesian hostages aboard MT Honour 25. He noted coordination with Indonesian embassies, including Nairobi and Karachi, to support the operation. The ministry has reported that the crew are in good health and negotiations with local authorities and vessel management remain ongoing.

PGN Strategy at IPA Convex 2026 to Strengthen National Gas Supply via Pipelines and LNG

Indonesia's PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk (PGN) has outlined a plan to bolster the national energy supply by integrating pipeline-based natural gas with domestically produced LNG, signing several strategic agreements at IPA Convex 2026 in Jakarta. Corporate Secretary Fajriyah Usman said the integrated gas supply approach will improve distribution reliability across sectors and expand PGN's ability to deliver energy to growth centres and new development areas, in partnership with Pertamina Group. The move reinforces PGN's role as an integrator of national gas infrastructure and supply while supporting economic growth and the transition to lower-emission energy.

Unexpected! This Is the Cause of the Rupiah's Weakening, Revealed by a Businessman

The rupiah weakened further amid BI's 50 basis-point rate rise as industry groups flag increased import dependence, especially for intermediate goods, as a key driver. They call for a tighter foreign-exchange policy and possible import-substitution measures to stabilise the currency and shield domestic producers.

ATxSummit 2026 Officially Opened, Regional Ambitions Drive AI for Public Interest

ATxSummit 2026 opened in Singapore with a gala at Gardens by the Bay, hosted by IMDA, gathering government leaders from Asia, the Middle East and the United States as well as global industry figures. The AI Ready ASEAN Youth Challenge announced 11 winning projects spanning health, education, social inclusion and agriculture, highlighting ASEAN's youth leveraging AI for social impact. Separately, SingHealth and partners signed MoUs to accelerate AI in health, including a dementia-care platform and a chest X-ray analysis model, underscoring the region's push to deploy AI to improve public health.

Who is Itamar Ben-Gvir, the man who trampled Global Sumud volunteers?

A video posted by Israel's Internal Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir showing the assault on participants of the Global Sumud Flotilla has sparked worldwide outrage. The piece traces Ben-Gvir's rise from a supporter of Meir Kahane to a minister whose provocations at the Al-Aqsa Mosque and hard-right stance have shaped Israeli politics and Palestinian hopes for independence, while recounting his multiple convictions and past actions.

Parliament regards Prabowo's macroeconomic framework as reflecting optimism

Indonesia's House of Representatives welcomes President Prabowo Subianto's Macro Economic Framework and Fiscal Policy for 2027, describing the policy direction as showing measured optimism in sustaining growth amid global uncertainty. The plan targets 2027 growth of about 5.8–6.5%, with inflation of 1.5–3.5% and a Rupiah trajectory of Rp16,800–17,500 per USD, while emphasising prudent macro assumptions and the need to translate macro gains into jobs and higher living standards.

List of Electric Cars Assembled by VinFast in Indonesia

VinFast's Subang plant in West Java is now fully operational, producing the VF MPV 7 as its first locally assembled model, with Limo Green and VF 3 to follow. Production began with a trial phase in January 2026, and supply to dealers has started as the factory expands output; the 170-hectare site represents a US$300 million investment and is also prepared as an export base for Southeast Asia.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights to Expand Cooperation with 1,000 Legal Aid Organisations

Indonesia's Ministry of Law and Human Rights will broaden its network of legal aid organisations to 1,000 nationwide to improve access to legal assistance for the financially disadvantaged. Currently there are 777 OBH, with only 10 operating in Bangka Belitung; the expansion is linked to budget adjustments and a shift to contractual funding, aiming to reach 1,000 OBH this year.

Joyday by Yili Teams Up with K-pop Group Hearts2Hearts as Brand Ambassador in Indonesia

Joyday, the Indonesian ice cream brand of Yili Group, has appointed Hearts2Hearts, SM Entertainment's emerging girl group, as its brand ambassadors in Indonesia. Hearts2Hearts has rapidly risen since debut, securing a first win on a music show, setting a new first‑week sales record for a debut K‑pop girl group on Hanteo, and surpassing 100 million Spotify streams by March 2026. The collaboration includes a peak‑season marketing drive and reinforces Yili's strategy of 'Global Mindset, Local Operations' to engage Indonesian youth and support long‑term growth in Indonesia and beyond.

Face of OPM Leader Dejang Heluka, who killed eight gold miners in Yahukimo

A video shows Dejang Heluka and his associates near a victim's body, claiming the killings were to avenge the deaths of their comrades. Authorities confirm the killings were carried out by Dejang Heluka's group together with Kopitua Heluka, with a previous record of violence in Yahukimo. Eight gold miners were killed in Korowai, Yahukimo, amid suspicions they were security personnel in disguise.

After four days, plastic warehouse fire in Cengkareng, West Jakarta still not fully extinguished

A fire at a plastic warehouse in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, has entered its fourth day and remains not fully extinguished as heavy debris traps the burning plastic. Firefighters report ongoing cooling operations with backhoes used to lift rubble; 18 units of apparatus and 90 firefighters have been deployed, but a timetable for full containment is not yet set.

Barantin forms a 24-hour task force to oversee sacrificial livestock

Barantin has established a 24-hour task force within its UPT/BKHIT units ahead of Eid al-Adha 2026 to supervise the movement of sacrificial livestock, from origin to destination. The force will patrol unofficial routes, enforce SOPs, and implement strict quarantine if documents or clinical signs are found. So far, no smuggling or major infectious disease cases have been detected, though a small number of animals showed mild health issues during transit.

The 'Donald Trump' Buffalo Ready to Be Sacrificed for Eid al-Adha

An albino buffalo in Bangladesh with blond hair resembling US President Donald Trump's hairstyle has gone viral, drawing crowds to a Narayanganj farm. The animal, nicknamed 'Donald Trump' by its owner, may be sacrificed for Eid al-Adha amid the Muslim festival when millions of livestock are slaughtered worldwide. The case highlights how viral fame can intersect with rural livelihoods and traditional animal-rearing practices.

Meeting Alor PKK Cadre, Tri Tito Reveals the Importance of Parenting Patterns and Child Nutrition

Tri Tito spoke at a Temu Kader PKK event in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara, highlighting that stunting remains a concern in some areas despite potential fishery-based protein supply. He attributed this to gaps in parental knowledge about child-rearing and nutrition, urging mothers to use creativity in preparing appealing, protein-rich meals for children and to emphasise character education and future readiness.

Premium Sanitation Targets Growth in East Java Property Market

LIXIL opened Showroom Manzio @313 in Surabaya on 15 May 2026, expanding access to Grohe and Inax premium sanitary products. The immersive showroom aims to support both retail customers and large-scale projects, signalling continued growth in East Java's property sector, especially around Surabaya Barat.

General Chair of TP PKK Urges Alor Students to Prevent Violence Against Women and Children

Tri, the General Chair of TP PKK, urged Alor's pupils to become agents of violence prevention, stressing prevention must begin at home and be reinforced through healthy family and social communication. The remarks came during a TP PKK socialisation programme in Alor Regency, which also linked education with Indonesia's 2045 ambitions and called for continued study to broaden future opportunities. The programme included visits to the local Department of Education and events such as Gebyar PAUD and a Numeracy-Literacy Festival.

Tensions Rise! US Intercepts Iranian-Flagged Oil Tanker, Orders It to Turn Back

The United States Marines intercepted an Iranian-flagged oil tanker, the M/T Celestial Sea, released it after a search, and ordered it to change course as part of the ongoing blockade enforcement. CENTCOM said 91 ships have so far been diverted to ensure compliance with the blockade imposed last month. The incident occurs amid rising US–Iran tensions, with Israel on high alert and threats of wider regional conflict.

Onerous, DPR Hajj Supervisory Team Highlights Health Insurance Cap for Pilgrims

Indonesia's DPR Hajj Supervisory Team criticises the health insurance cap for pilgrims, which limits coverage to one illness up to 200,000 Riyals and forces patients to switch hospitals when funds run out. They call for a thorough review of the scheme and explore flexible financing options, such as cross-subsidies or direct payment by medical need. The team notes that past Haj operations allowed care until full recovery, urging Indonesia to negotiate better terms with Saudi authorities.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah applauds the dedication of staff serving the 2026 Hajj pilgrims

Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf praised the dedication of field staff serving the 2026 Hajj pilgrims, especially the elderly, during a visit to Terminal Syib Amir in Mecca. He pledged ongoing evaluation of service quality and explained delays caused by Saudi traffic management ahead of Arafat, while stressing that preparations for Hajj services are close to complete. The report also covers moves to focus PPIH on serving Indonesian pilgrims, cautions against personal display by staff, and references quota-related debates and security incidents.

Data and the Future of the Welfare State

Indonesia's DTSEN consolidates DTKS, Regsosek, and P3KE into a single national data base to determine social assistance eligibility, aiming to reduce overlap and improve targeting. While a data-driven welfare state grows increasingly digital and maps aid along citizens' life cycles, critics warn that poverty cannot be fully captured by numbers alone, arguing for human-centric governance to complement data precision.

Deputy Police Chief: Terrorism Patterns Have Changed, Protecting the Younger Generation Is Key

Indonesia’s police emphasise a shift in terrorism patterns toward digital spaces and fragmented ideologies, urging a collaborative, prevention-focused approach that protects youths. The policy direction aligns with the Polri Grand Strategy 2025-2045 and the Polri Strategic Plan 2025-2029, stressing early prevention, literacy, and cross-sector cooperation.

PBNU Condemns Israeli Occupation Forces for Detaining Nine Indonesian Citizens, Urges Indonesia to Act Through the BoP

The Pengurus Besar Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) condemned the Israeli Occupation Forces for detaining nine Indonesian citizens who were part of the Global Peace Convoy Indonesia mission to Gaza. The organisation urged the Indonesian government to act swiftly through international diplomacy, citing Indonesia's standing in international forums such as the BoP to press for the detainees' safety and release.

Moments when the Bulungan Regent's Office was engulfed by flames late at night, firefighters injured

A late-evening fire engulfed the Bulungan Regent's Office in North Kalimantan, injuring a firefighter who was struck by flying glass. The incident drew a large multi-agency response, with firefighters, police, airport fire crews, the army, and PMI ambulances deployed, while bystanders were urged to keep clear of the scene.

How Elephant Dung Saved the Global Music Industry

Researchers from the Congo Basin Institute and UCLA show that African forest elephants are key to dispersing ebony seeds, aiding the regeneration of ebony trees. Funded by Taylor Guitars, the Ebony Project partners with the Baka people to plant ebony and fruit trees, securing supply for the guitar industry while supporting local livelihoods; the findings underscore the role of conservation-driven enterprise in global markets.

Breaking diplomatic tradition, Donald Trump plans to telephone Taiwan's leader over arms sales

Donald Trump has signalled he will directly speak with Taiwan's leader Lai Ching-te to discuss a potential arms package worth about US$14 billion, a stark break with decades of diplomatic protocol. The plan comes amid uncertainty over the sale of anti-drone equipment and air-defence systems and could inflame Beijing while emphasising Taiwan's strategic importance to the United States.

Link and How to Buy The Weeknd Jakarta General On Sale Tickets, Prices Start at Rp 950,000

Fans can access The Weeknd Jakarta's General On Sale on 21 May 2026 from 14:00 WIB via theweekndinjakarta.com and the promoter's partner platforms. Tickets for the Jakarta International Stadium shows on 26-27 September 2026 are priced per category, excluding government tax and platform fees; seating is numbered except for the Festival area, which is standing. Prospective buyers should review terms on Tiket.com and TEM Presents' site before purchasing.

Daily posting limit on X accounts — to post more you must pay Elon Musk

X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk, has begun restricting posting volume for non-verified accounts, capping at 50 original posts and 200 replies per day. The measure, reported by Engadget and others, could push users toward X Premium, and has drawn criticism for limiting activity on the platform.

One-Stop Export of Natural Resource Commodities Threatens Economic Resilience

Center for Indonesian Policy Studies (CIPS) warns that the government's plan to centralise the export of natural resource commodities could hinder growth and undermine investor confidence, stressing that the private sector remains the engine of GDP, investment and jobs. It calls for diversification and openness, with OECD-compatibile competition as a path to real resilience; meanwhile, markets react negatively as Q1 2026 growth hits 5.61% but mining shrinks and the rupiah weakens.

Used Honda HR-V prices as of May 2026, starting at Rp150 million

The article discusses the price range for used Honda HR-V models in Indonesia, noting that prices start around Rp150 million as of May 2026 and vary by region, vehicle condition, mileage, and documentation. It cites Kompas.com's monitoring of online used-car marketplaces and mentions a price list as of July 2025.

Tobacco Excise Tariff Not Raised, Industry Urges Government to Focus on Tackling Illicit Cigarettes

Indonesia's GAPPRI welcomes the decision by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to keep the CHT rate unchanged for 2027, saying it supports macroeconomic stability and protects about six million jobs in the tobacco sector. It warns that higher tariffs fuel illicit cigarette trade and calls for a data-driven, targeted approach to stamping out illegal activity, while urging careful regulation of packaging standards and nicotine/tar limits. The government also emphasises stability and revenue oversight as it reviews other industry regulations, aligning with broader economic and social objectives.

Food Security and the Meaning of National Awakening Day Today

Indonesia marks National Awakening Day, emphasising that food security is a strategic priority amid population growth. The piece highlights Indonesia's agricultural potential and government efforts, such as the swasembada pangan programme, while stressing the need for cross-sector collaboration to ensure food availability, affordability, and sustainability for all. It also warns that failing to meet domestic food demand could leave Indonesia vulnerable to global crises and import dependence.

Iran conflict reshapes global energy routes as UAE accelerates new oil pipeline

The Iran-linked conflict is driving Gulf states to rethink how energy is distributed, with the UAE fast-tracking a second oil pipeline to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. ADNOC's chief executive said the route, designed to run outside Hormuz, is around 50% complete and slated to start operations in 2027, amid ongoing supply disruptions and potential losses worth billions of barrels of oil.

After 22 Years in Operation, KPK Has Named 1,880 Suspects in Corruption Cases

Over its 22-year history (2024–2026 in this report), the KPK has named 1,880 individuals as corruption suspects, of whom 1,720 are men and 160 are women. Asep Guntur Rahayu pointed to cases across public services, natural resources, and political/legal spheres, including an alleged extortion case involving RPTKA at the Ministry of Manpower. He stressed that enforcement relies on public participation.

Oil Prices Rise on Middle East Conflict, EVs Gain Traction

Oil prices have risen as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East intensify the global energy crisis, while demand for electric vehicles continues to grow. The IEA's Global EV Outlook 2026 projects EVs accounting for around 28% of car sales globally this year, with 23 million EVs expected to be sold. The report notes that the road transport sector constitutes nearly half of global oil demand and that energy policy responses could shape the automotive market for years to come.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights allocates incentives for 2,200 Posbankum paralegals in Bangka Belitung Islands

The Indonesian Ministry of Law and Human Rights will provide incentives for 2,200 paralegals working in Pos Bantuan Hukum (Posbankum) across 393 offices in the Bangka Belitung Islands. The incentives will be delivered via mandatory regional regulations to avoid additional local budgets, following discussions with the provincial governor. The move aims to strengthen legal services for communities by empowering paralegals within Posbankum.

HKI emphasises industrial estates' strategic role in boosting the economy

HKI argues that industrial estates hold a strategic role in driving national economic growth by expanding investment, downstream industrialisation, job creation, and export earnings despite global uncertainties. Chairman Akhmad Ma'ruf Maulana urged reforms to licensing, land-use certainty, energy and logistics infrastructure, and policy alignment between central and regional governments. The inauguration of HKI's new secretariat in Jakarta, attended by Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, highlighted the sector's contribution to the economy and the government's emphasis on integrated infrastructure to attract investment and improve industrial efficiency.

Brace Yourself for a Ticket Battle: Westlife Jakarta 2027 Presale Tickets Open Today, Check the Link and How to Buy

Westlife's Jakarta show as part of The Anniversary World Tour is scheduled for January 2027, with the IRSX presale for Westlife Jakarta 2027 tickets opening today at 10:00 WIB. Tickets are sold exclusively through official partners, with prices published in six main categories plus a VIP package; fans are advised to use official links to avoid scams. Jakarta remains a major Asian destination for Westlife, reflecting Indonesia's large fan base.

No Joke! 90,000 BYD Vehicles Roaming Indonesia's Roads

BYD has disclosed that around 90,000 of its cars are already on Indonesian roads, as the company expands its dealer network to more than 100 showrooms across 49 cities. The firm notes EV penetration is approaching 20% of Indonesia’s total automotive market, with petrol vehicles still dominating at about 65%. The comments came during BYD Tech Culture Fest in Jakarta, highlighting rapid growth and ongoing efforts to boost trust and infrastructure for green mobility.

ASDEPSI Working Meeting Focuses on Policy Synchronisation and Strengthening DPRD Functions

ASDEPSI held a working meeting at the West Java Provincial DPRD on 19 May 2026, following Rakornas II. The discussions centred on preparing for Rakernas II in Bali in June 2026 and drafting strategic recommendations to the central government to strengthen the DPRD secretariats and their governance. The proposals include revising key regulations, enhancing central–regional coordination, appointing a legal aid body, and reforms to Law No. 23/2024 to boost DPRD oversight.

TOBA issues bonds worth Rp175 billion to expand renewable energy business

TOBA's bond issue is seven-year, coupon 9%, due 13 May 2033, code TOBA01CN3; rated idA by PEFINDO; Bank Mega as trustee; the bonds are secured by the company's assets under the Indonesian Civil Code. The company continues diversification from coal into renewables, including geothermal, solar, EV infrastructure, batteries, and waste management, plus investments in electric motorcycles and battery-swapping through partnerships, marking its emergence in Indonesia's clean energy and sustainable mobility sectors.

Adalah: Global Sumud activists subjected to electric shocks in Israeli detention

Adalah has documented allegations that activists aboard the Global Sumud flotilla were subjected to electric shocks and other abuses in Israeli detention, with several hospitalised. It also cites forced demeaning transfer positions and forcible removal of headscarves from women activists as legal proceedings loom. The claims come amid renewed attempts to breach the Gaza blockade and broader Israeli–Palestinian tensions.

Deputy Creative Economy Minister says global IP collaboration broadens local music market

Deputy Minister Irene Umar of the Creative Economy backs an international IP collaboration between The Pokémon Company and Indonesian dangdut star Happy Asmara to release the music video Kopi Dangdut – ver. Goyang HEPIKA, aimed at expanding Indonesia's dangdut presence on the global stage. The project positions dangdut as a culturally rooted, globally relevant product, with Pokémon officials highlighting shared energy and cross-generational appeal; merchandise and an appearance of Happy Asmara as a voice actor in Pokémon Horizon: Season 3 (2026) are planned, alongside a broader HEPIKA social media campaign.

Video: Tracing Prabowo's Aims to Form a Special Export State-Owned Enterprise for Palm Oil - Batu Bara

President Prabowo Subianto announced the formation of a Special Export State-Owned Enterprise (BUMN) for key commodities, including coal, palm oil, and ferroalloy, during the 2027 RAPBN macro framework briefing. Experts note such a structure exists in other countries but requires clear regulations, with Indonesia's top export commodities earning around Rp1,100 trillion in 2025 underscoring potential policy impact.

Kangkung Rarely Appears on Hospital Menus: This Is Why

Hospitals choose their vegetable components carefully, prioritising patient safety and ease of preparation. Leafy greens like kangkung are often avoided due to high purine, oxalate and nitrate content, limited shelf life, and processing challenges, though heavy metals risk is not limited to kangkung. The findings explain why hospital menus favour more stable, nutritionally controllable vegetables.

Hawker Dies After Being Crushed by Truck Aboard the KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya

A hawker named Yanti died after being crushed by a box truck on the deck of the passenger ferry KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya 5888 while it was docked at Gilimanuk Port, Bali. The incident occurred around 03:40 local time on 21 May 2026; the truck driver was detained by police, and the ship continued to Ketapang, Banyuwangi, as investigators looked into the incident.

Lianlian DigiTech Strengthens Middle East Strategy with DIFC-Based Official Payment Services

Lianlian DigiTech has secured a payment service provider licence from the Dubai Financial Services Authority and will operate from the Dubai International Financial Centre, expanding its cross-border payments capabilities in the Middle East. The move positions the AI-driven payments firm to collaborate with local banks and support regulated, cross-border transactions across the region, China, and beyond.

Prabowo's Directive Seen as Momentum for Bureaucratic Performance Evaluation

President Prabowo Subianto's instruction that ministries and agencies should not hinder entrepreneurs is hailed as a turning point for bureaucratic reform. Nasrullah of Relawan Gebrakan Indonesia Berani Maju says the move signals a commitment to easier business, rule of law, and swifter public services to foster a healthy investment climate and job creation. The group urges a professional, transparent, results‑oriented public sector and invites broad support for reform to benefit ordinary people and the economy.

Pramono to Crack Down on Those Trading Free Public-Transport Cards

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has promised to take firm action against anyone involved in the sale or misuse of Free Public-Transport Cards (KLG). The incident has prompted investigations by the DKI Jakarta government, with 15 eligible groups for the KLG and a ban on misusing the card, under the governor regulation. Violators face withdrawal of free transport facilities for one year, as authorities pursue potential insider involvement.

Having Ruled for a Long Time, Why Did Nokia Go Bankrupt?

Nokia dominated mobile phones for decades until the iPhone’s 2007 launch disrupted the market. The piece examines how hubris, leadership and strategic missteps, alongside a shift from hardware to software, contributed to Nokia’s decline and bankruptcy.

South Sulawesi issues circular to curb violence against women and children within the civil service

The South Sulawesi Provincial Government has issued a dedicated circular to strengthen prevention and handling of violence against women and children in the civil service. The circular, No. 100.3.4/6020/DP3AP2KB, signed by Secretary to the Governor Jufri Rahman on 15 May 2026, requires heads of regional agencies to model anti-violence behaviour and to respond to complaints, and sets up reporting channels including a hotline and online form.

PDIP Praises Prabowo's Promise Not to Interfere with the Background of the Tender Winner

PDIP spokesman Guntur Romli praised President Prabowo Subianto's pledge not to meddle with the tender-winning project, saying it places the spirit of nationalism above partisan interests. He said PDIP will continue to act as a constitutional check and balance while remaining outside the government. In a DPR address, Prabowo emphasised the need for opposition and expressed respect for PDIP's stance, while noting he would welcome cross-party cooperation, though he warned such a coalition could threaten democracy.

Jakarta's Public Order Agency to crack down on Eid al-Adha animal traders on sidewalks

Jakarta's Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) will patrol to remove Eid al-Adha sacrificial animal traders from sidewalks and other public facilities ahead of the festival. Officials say enforcement will be swift when violations are found, following a provincial instruction banning sales in inappropriate locations; the aim is to maintain order and public comfort in Jakarta.

WHO says Ebola is not a 'pandemic emergency'

The World Health Organization states that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda remains a Public Health Emergency of International Concern but does not constitute a pandemic. An Emergency Committee reaffirmed this assessment as the outbreak has spread across Ituri and North Kivu, with Uganda reporting cases in Kampala; funding has been boosted from the Contingency Fund for Emergencies to sustain an international response.

Deaths from Israeli aggression in Lebanon have reached 3,073 since March

The Lebanese Health Ministry says casualties from Israeli strikes in southern and eastern Lebanon and the southern outskirts of Beirut total 3,073 dead and 9,362 wounded since 2 March, with 53 dead and 83 wounded in the last two days. Although a formal ceasefire remains in place, Israeli airstrikes and artillery continue to target Lebanese territory, and Hezbollah has conducted border-area attacks against Israeli forces, while the IDF accuses Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire.

Bent Pencils and the Rural Economy

In this column, the author argues that a depreciation of the rupiah subtly distorts the economy, with village livelihoods deteriorating slowly due to imported inputs and energy prices even as macro indicators look stable. The piece warns that national statistics mask declines in living standards at the household level in rural Indonesia.

Daihatsu Records Exports of 42,000 Units Through April 2026, Up 33 Per Cent

ADM reported a 33 per cent rise in vehicle exports this year, with exports to April 2026 totalling around 42,000 units. The growth reflects renewed demand from key markets, including the Philippines, Japan, and Peru, and underscores Indonesia's continuing competitiveness in the global automotive market. The Raize and Agya models were major contributors, and shipments to the Middle East resumed after a brief April pause; total destinations reached around 64 countries.

The Story of Iwet Ramadhan and Dave Hendrik Learning to Listen to Body Signals After Facing Serious Illness

Two Indonesian figures, Iwet Ramadhan and Dave Hendrik, discuss how even physically fit individuals can suffer serious health events and the importance of heeding body signals. The piece covers Iwet’s haemorrhage stroke linked to stress and sleep, Dave’s arterial blockages tied to genetic factors, and their warnings about ignoring symptoms; it also notes a launch event for Omron’s blood pressure monitor.

Blueprint for the 2027 State Budget Deficit at 2.4% of GDP, DPR: A Reflection of Caution

Member of Commission XI Mukhamad Misbakhun welcomed the delivery of the Macro-Economic Framework and Key Fiscal Policy Issues (KEM-PPKF) 2027 by President Prabowo Subianto at a DPR plenary session, noting cautious yet optimistic macro assumptions and growth targets intended to bolster investment, consumption, and the real economy. He warned that higher growth must be accompanied by stronger real-sector performance to benefit workers and households, and emphasised a fiscally healthy space amid volatile oil prices and rupiah movements. Prabowo unveiled the initial APBN 2027 with a deficit of around 1.8-2.4% of GDP, with expenditure and revenue targets of about 13.62-14.8% and 11.82-12.40% of GDP respectively.

Iran establishes a controlled maritime zone in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran declares a controlled maritime zone in the Strait of Hormuz, obliging ships to coordinate and obtain permission before transiting. The zone stretches from Kuh-e Mubarak to Fujairah in the east and from Qeshm Island to Umm al-Quwain in the west, with a map published to illustrate the area. The move follows heightened regional tensions and a ceasefire negotiation mediated by Pakistan that has since stalled, while the United States maintains its blockade on vessels linked to Iran.

Banks Ready to Absorb Regional Bonds, Seen as a New Innovation

Bank NTT's CFO says regional bonds offer attractive prospects for investors and banks, benefiting from liquidity security backed by the state and a low risk weight in risk-weighted asset calculations. He predicts demand for 3–5 year tenors among institutions and the public, and argues that regional bonds could enhance local infrastructure financing and support economic growth.

Traffic management during the erection of girders at Latumenten

Traffic management will be implemented around the Latumenten flyover in West Jakarta during the erection of precast concrete girders. Western-side works run 18-26 May 2026 and eastern-side works 29 May-5 June 2026, both nights from 22:00 to 04:00 WIB, with detours for heavy and light vehicles. The project aims to reduce railway crossing risks, speed up journeys by separating road and rail movements, and boost local economic growth, while emphasising safety and TOD integration at Grogol.

Law Minister Confirms Polri Bill Will Accommodate KPRP Recommendations to Prabowo

The Law Minister, Supratman Andi Agtas, says the Polri Bill will incorporate the Commission for Accelerating Police Reform (KPRP) recommendations already delivered to President Prabowo Subianto. He indicates coordination with the National Police Chief and DPR Commission III to embed reform outputs, including personnel placements, into the revision process, with further DPR review. The DPR plenary later approved the revision of Law No. 2 of 2002 on the Indonesian National Police as a DPR-initiated proposal after factions submitted written views.

PLN Offers 50 Percent Power-Up Discount Until 2 June 2026, Check the Latest Terms and Tariffs

PLN is offering up to a 50% discount on power upgrades from 20 May to 2 June 2026 under the 'MeiLAJU Lebih Terang' programme. The discount applies to all tariff groups, including households and businesses, but participants must not reduce their power for a year unless PLN allows it. With potential savings and a mandated upgrade window, the promo aims to mitigate outages caused by high electricity usage; act before 2 June 2026.

TITLE: Viral ‘Partai Kecoak’ Muncul di India, Anak Muda Ramai-ramai Ikutan ARTICLE: Dilansir Al Jazeera, partai ini sendiri diinisiasi oleh pria bernama Abhijeet Dipke (30). Ia merupakan lulusan jurusan hubungan masyarakat dari Universitas Boston di Amerika Serikat (AS). Idenya ini muncul sebagai respons atas ucapan Ketua Mahkamah Agung India, Surya Kant. Pada Jumat (15/5/2026) lalu, Surya Kant mengatakan dalam sidang terbuka bahwa “parasit” tengah menyerang sistem.

Israeli Minister Taunts Handcuffed Gaza Flotilla Activists: We Are the Masters

International reaction mounts after a video posted by Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir shows him taunting activists kneeling with hands bound. The incident, connected to the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 and ongoing detentions, drew condemnation from multiple countries and sparked questions over Israel’s handling of protesters and foreign nationals.

Three Pakistani Warships Dock in Jakarta Waters: What’s Happening?

Three Pakistani warships arrived in Jakarta for a courtesy visit to strengthen bilateral ties with the Indonesian Navy. The visit includes a reception at the Tanjung Priok port, closed bilateral talks, and planned activities such as sports matches and open-ship days for service members and the public.

Aldila Sutjiadi Advances to the Morocco Open 2026 Semi-Finals

Indonesian doubles specialist Aldila Sutjiadi, paired with Vera Zvonareva, advanced to the Morocco Open 2026 doubles semi-finals by defeating the Corley sisters in Rabat. The top seeds won in a tight three-set match, 6-4, 6-7(9), 10-5, and will face Nika Radisic and Katarzyna Piter in the next round. Indonesia's other competitor in singles, Janice Tjen, was eliminated in the second round.

Former Indonesian President Once Underestimated, Now Revered as a Hero

B.J. Habibie, initially doubted as a technocrat during Indonesia's 1997-1998 crisis, steered reforms that opened democracy and stabilised the economy in a brief presidency from 1998 to 1999. He is now remembered as a transitional figure who helped lead Indonesia from repression to reform, despite controversy over East Timor's referendum.

Antam Gold Price Today 21 May 2026 Rises by Rp 35,000; Check the Latest Price List

Antam's gold price rose on 21 May 2026 to Rp 2,800,000 per gram, up Rp 35,000 from the opening price of Rp 2,765,000. The article notes the available weights from 0.5g to 1kg and outlines PPh 22 tax implications for purchases and buybacks above Rp 10 million.

Debut of The Princess Wencheng Banquet: A Dinner Show Blending Cultural Heritage and Tourism

The Princess Wencheng Banquet debuted at Jiuzhai Huamei Resort in Jiuzhaigou, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan, presenting a dinner show that fuses a Tang Dynasty–Tibet historical narrative with the valley’s natural beauty. Performed by the Sichuan Contemporary Song & Dance Troupe, the production blends Tang, Tibetan and Qiang dances to offer an immersive cultural experience and extend tourist stays. The show runs from 20 May to 30 June 2026, twice daily, with bookings via a Jiuzhaigou mini-program and collaborative support from local cultural institutions and premium hotels.

SpaceX Reveals Financial Data Ahead of IPO, Starlink Emerges as the Main Driver of Its Business

SpaceX has for the first time disclosed detailed internal finances ahead of its planned IPO on the Nasdaq under ticker SPCX, filing an S-1 with the SEC ahead of a roadshow starting on 5 June 2026. The prospectus outlines revenue sources, operational challenges, and expansion plans, with the company aiming to raise up to $75 billion and a valuation near $1.8 trillion. The Starlink-powered Connectivity segment is the principal revenue contributor and is the most profitable unit, reporting substantial year-on-year growth.

BTN Housing Loan Programme Has Disbursed Almost Rp3 Trillion, Here Are the Details

BTN has reported that as of 18 May 2026, the booked disbursement of the National Housing Programme (KPP) reached Rp2.97 trillion, with Rp1.98 trillion in supply and Rp987 billion in demand. The achievements, accounting for about one-third of the annual supply quota and one-quarter of the demand quota, underline BTN's Beyond Mortgage strategy to create an integrated housing-financing ecosystem.

Semen Indonesia Liquidates Three Subsidiaries Through SMCB

PT Semen Indonesia Tbk (SMGR) announced the dissolution and liquidation of three of its subsidiary entities via PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia Tbk (SMCB) on 19–20 May 2026. The units are PT Ciptanugrah Indonesia (CI), PT Aroma Sejahtera Indonesia (ASI), and PT Aroma Cipta Anugrahtama (ACA). CI and ASI are grandchildren of SMGR through its 83.52% stake in SMCB, while ACA is a great‑grandchild. The resolutions, approved at Extraordinary General Meetings of Shareholders, also appoint liquidators. Management says the restructuring will not disrupt the group's core business, though SMGR's shares edged lower on the news.

Prajogo Shares Plunge! Rp1,400 Trillion Wiped Out

Prajogo Pangestu's six core listed companies have fallen sharply this year, with some shares down by more than 50% and as much as 75%, following MSCI's removal of several group constituents from its index. The sell-off has raised concerns about potential foreign passive fund outflows and contributed to a broad decline in the Jakarta Composite Index; the six core Prajogo stocks have collectively shed around Rp1,400 trillion from their peak market capitalisation.

Pigai recounts being investigated by the UN Human Rights Council Ethics Committee after 33 Indonesian NGOs filed a complaint

Natalius Pigai, then a Komnas HAM commissioner, reveals he was investigated by the UNHRC Ethics Committee over his actions to protect civilians from military violence, following a report from 33 Indonesian NGOs. The committee ultimately found him not guilty. He also recalled past rejections during the Komnas HAM commissioner selection and said he valued his independence, closing with a message that kindness and truth prevail.

Six Robbery Suspects Arrested, Claim Motives Were Economic Needs and Drug Purchases

Six suspects involved in theft and mugging were arrested across Jakarta and Depok. Police say the motives included meeting economic needs and purchasing drugs, with some suspects testing positive for amphetamine. Two suspects were shot in the leg after resisting arrest, and the group face up to 15 years in prison.

KPK Backs MBG 100%, But Warns of Potential Corruption Gaps in BGN

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) pledges full support for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, a priority of President Prabowo Subianto, while warning of potential corruption risks as the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) builds its system and regulations. The KPK emphasises strengthening governance, transparency and accountability to prevent misuse during implementation, given the programme’s large budget.

Nokia officially launches the Nokia G42 5G, the first 5G smartphone that users can repair themselves

Nokia, through HMD Global, unveiled the Nokia G42 5G, the first Nokia 5G smartphone designed for user self-repair in collaboration with iFixit. The device features QuickFix repairability with replaceable screen, battery and charging port, supported by official affordable parts and repair guides. Priced at £199 in Europe, it offers a 6.56-inch HD+ display, 50MP main camera, 5,000 mAh battery with 20W charging, Android 13 and a back panel made of 65% recycled materials, with availability starting 29 June in the UK and selected markets.

Minister Arifah Fauzi Urges All to Protect Women and Children from Violence

The Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, has urged national solidarity to safeguard women and girls from violence, calling for safe spaces in workplaces, education, and public life. The 2024 SPHPN and SNPHAR surveys show high levels of violence against women and young people, underscoring the urgency of action.

According to Bridgespan Research, Systemic Barriers Limit the Effectiveness of Non-profit Organisations in Southeast Asia

Bridgespan's study across Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore finds that lack of long-term flexible funding constrains NGO capacity and growth; it outlines five practical changes for funders and intermediaries to boost impact and highlights geographic disparities in reserves. The report calls for more flexible funding, stronger governance, and closer NGO-government collaboration to reach the most vulnerable communities.

Lohia Village in Maluku Lacks Healthcare Facilities; Elderly Woman in Poverty Carried for Five Hours to Reach a Puskesmas

A 70-year-old resident of Lohia Village, Belandina, was carried by villagers for about five hours to reach a Puskesmas because ambulances cannot reach the village and there are no local health workers. The ordeal highlights ongoing gaps in infrastructure and healthcare access in remote Seram Barat, with residents calling on regional and national authorities to improve roads and health services.

Number of Slum RW Declines by 52 Percent, Jakarta Provincial Government Allocates Rp1.9 trillion for Urban Renewal

Jakarta's government reports a 52% reduction in slum RW units from 445 in 2017 to 211 in 2026, based on BPS data from 2025 finalised in 2026. The administration outlines a multi-faceted approach to renewal including restoration, renewal, and resettlement, with Rp1.9 trillion committed since 2018 and distributed through 2025. Observers warn that improvements must address sanitation, social and economic conditions, not just physical changes.

CT Arsa Sukoharjo Elite High School graduates 100% as three secure places at overseas universities

CT Arsa Sukoharjo Elite High School celebrated the 100% graduation rate of its sixth cohort, with 55 students already admitted to universities, including three who secured places at overseas institutions. The ceremony highlighted the school's boarding‑school model and full scholarships funded by the CT Arsa Foundation, emphasising leadership, character, and tolerance.

South Sumatra urged to end fiscal dependence through regional bonds

South Sumatra is urged to become a test case for regional bonds to close a development and funding gap, with officials warning that relying on central funding or budget cuts is not a viable solution. The discussion highlighted DSCR-based fiscal capacity and the need for financial literacy, risk mitigation, and regulatory certainty to attract investors, amid local political hurdles.

Shalawat Bus Service Temporarily Halted Ahead of Wukuf, Here Is the Schedule

The Indonesian Shalawat bus service for pilgrims is suspended ahead of the Wukuf rites in Arafah from 22 May 2026 at 18:00 Saudi time, with a restart planned on 31 May 2026. The service operates 452 buses across 21 colour-coded routes connecting Masjid al-Haram via three points: Terminal Jiad (Ajyad), Jabal al-Ka'bah, and Sib Amir; there are special transport arrangements for pilgrims not yet having completed obligatory Umrah.

Video: Rupiah Weakens; Expensive Fuel Oil, Shipping Operating Costs Soar

Cargo ship operators are bracing for higher costs as the rupiah weakens, with imported spare parts, insurance premiums, and foreign loan repayments rising. INSA asks for government help to improve competitiveness—lower domestic lending rates and longer tenors, plus VAT exemption on merchant-ship fuel—to sustain the sector and logistics activity amid global volatility. The discussion emphasises how purchasing power underpins the shipping industry’s resilience.

Palm Oil Exports to Be Routed Through a Single Channel via a State-Owned Enterprise: Malaysia Poised to Benefit?

Indonesia’s plan to centralise commodity exports through a dedicated state-owned enterprise has unsettled the palm oil market. Prices fell as traders await clarity on implementation, with Malaysia seen as a potential beneficiary, though global demand remains cautious.

Jasa Marga to pay Rp1.1 trillion dividend after 2025 financial year AGM

PT Jasa Marga (Persero) Tbk announced at its 2025 Annual General Meeting that it will distribute Rp1.1 trillion in dividends, amounting to 31% of net profit. Dividend per share is Rp156.2, with a 4 June 2026 record date and 19 June 2026 payment date; 2025 revenue reached Rp19.8 trillion and EBITDA Rp13.3 trillion, with core profit of Rp3.7 trillion.

Today's Gold Price Update 21 May 2026: Antam Surges!

Antam's gold price jumped this morning, rising 35,000 Rupiah per gram to Rp 2,800,000, while the buyback value also increased. The gains extended to Pegadaian, Galeri24, and UBS offerings, prompting considerations for buyers; this update covers the latest prices across major outlets as of 09:39 WIB on 21 May 2026.

Semen Indonesia (SMGR) Announces the Dissolution of Three Subsidiary Entities

Semen Indonesia has disclosed the dissolution and liquidation of three subsidiary entities via its subsidiary Solusi Bangun Indonesia (SMCB). The company has appointed a liquidator panel and says the moves will not affect its operations or finances, noting that CI is a subsidiary via SMCB and ACA and ASI are further descendants.

Measuring LNG with Precision to Safeguard Market Confidence

This article highlights how precise laboratory testing underpins LNG trading. DSLNG stresses that ISO 17025 accreditation signals reliability, with regular audits by the National Accreditation Committee and accreditation valid until 2030, reflecting the link between measurement accuracy and market trust.

Kalista optimistic about faster adoption of electric logistics vehicles

Kalista Group chief executive Albert Aulia Ilyas says logistics is among the fastest-adopting EV sectors, especially for last-mile and middle-mile operations. He notes that electric models such as blind vans and electric mini vans have been in use since 2021–2022, and that charging infrastructure in major cities has grown, making operations more feasible. He cautions, however, that heavy-duty fleets like trailers and intercity buses still face charging gaps, particularly at tolled rest areas.

Profile of Asrorun Ni'am Sholeh, MUI Fatwa Chair, Appointed as Commissioner of Jasa Marga

Jasa Marga, the state-owned toll-road operator, overhauled its board at its Annual General Meeting on 20 May 2026, appointing two new commissioners, including Asrorun Ni'am Sholeh. Sholeh is the long-standing Chair of MUI's Fatwa committee and has held senior roles in Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and public service, including leadership of KPAI and deputy roles in the Youth Ministry. The group also named Nurul Ghufron as commissioner and Andry Tanudjaja as Deputy President Director.

ESDM signs contract for Phase 1 construction of Cirebon gas network

The Directorate General of Oil and Gas under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources signed a contract for the development and supervisory consultancy of the Household Gas Network (Jargas) in Cirebon Regency Phase 1. The project, covering about 41,000 household connections across Palimanan, Gempol, Depok and Dukupuntang, is scheduled to commence on 20 May 2026 and finish by 31 December 2026, with PT PGAS Solution as the construction contractor and PT Surveyor Indonesia as supervising consultant; the signing marks the initial coordination stage for 2026 Jargas infrastructure.

Prabowo: 34 Years of Export Fraud Costs Reach Rp15,400 Trillion

Prabowo Subianto has warned that export-fraud losses since 1991 could amount to US$908 billion (about Rp15,400 trillion). The losses arise from practices such as under-invoicing, under-counting and transfer pricing, affecting high-value commodities like palm oil, coal and iron alloy. The government has issued new rules to strengthen oversight and designate a single state-owned exporter for certain strategic commodities to curb leakage and boost state revenue.

Fire at vegetable stalls and motorcycle workshop in Manggarai: 1 dead, 2 motorcycles destroyed

A fire destroyed vegetable stalls and a motorcycle workshop in Satar Tacik, Langke Rembong District, Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, killing Mel, a 70-year-old vegetable stall owner. Two motorcycles were also burned and authorities say the cause is under investigation as police cordon off the scene.

95 Percent of Livestock in Gaza Destroyed, Indonesian Muslims Urged to Perform Qurban for Palestine

Indonesian NGO Qudwah Indonesia has launched the Qurban Strengthening 2026 programme to help Gaza amid a worsening food crisis. With around 95 percent of Gaza's livestock reportedly destroyed by the conflict, the appeal calls on Indonesian Muslims to perform Qurban to provide meat and nutrition to vulnerable families, particularly children, pregnant women, and the injured. Humanitarian activists warn that the collapse of the livestock sector has a major impact on food availability in Gaza.

Bank Raya Appoints Farid Rahman and Tatang Yuliono as Commissioners

Bank Raya Indonesia Tbk has appointed two new commissioners, Farid Rahman as Independent Commissioner and Tatang Yuliono as Commissioner, effective after fit and proper tests by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The appointments were approved at the company's 2026 Annual General Meeting, which was attended by shareholders representing 89.53 percent of issued shares. The move aims to strengthen governance as the bank progresses its digital banking strategy.

Developers Hit Hard: Sluggish Sales, Expensive Materials, BI Rate Rises

Rising BI Rate to 5.25% and the ongoing Middle East conflict threaten higher construction costs and weigh on property demand. Developers are cautious, continuing to market existing projects while delaying new developments as mortgage rates rise and buyers' purchasing power remains weak. The effects are not expected to be felt immediately, but could emerge within two to three months.

Motor-wash shop employee killed by being slashed by four friends in Bali; two suspects are still minors

The victim, a motor-wash shop employee, died after being assaulted by four men; his body was buried in a vacant lot. Four suspects—two of them minors—were arrested in East Java, with police saying the motive involved revenge and the theft of valuables. Investigators said the main suspect repeatedly bullied the victim and used a weapon to slash his neck; the motorcycle was sold for Rp1.8 million, with the phone taken by one suspect.

Ministry of Tourism promotes aquarium tourism for school holidays

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is promoting aquarium tourism as a school-holiday destination, alongside gastronomy, wellness, and textile tourism. The move follows Klook data indicating aquariums are among attractions travellers want to try, and was highlighted at the BBWI Travel Fair x BINA Cerita Liburan Sekolah 2026 in Surabaya. The report cites interest in Jakarta Aquarium and Banyuwangi Diving School, and notes growing demand for seamless, personalised travel experiences and for new Indonesian destinations such as Labuan Bajo, the Gili Islands, Lombok and Mount Bromo.

Signs of the Apocalypse Growing Clearer in the Rice Fields

A study warns that rising temperatures could push rice crops beyond their thermal tolerance, threatening global production and food security. The lead author notes that paddies have been historically constrained by temperature, and moving cultivation land is not a simple solution for rice-dependent regions.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah praises staff serving pilgrims so that the elderly can worship

Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has commended frontline staff for their dedication to pilgrims, particularly the elderly, during services at Makkah's Masjid al-Haram. He conducted a field check at the Syib Amir Terminal to ensure optimal care and pledged ongoing evaluations of Hajj operations, including addressing delays caused by Saudi traffic measures around Arafat to safeguard pilgrims' transport back to their hotels.

Alfamart Promotion Today: SoKlin Discount Up to 40 Percent to Rp 8,900

Alfamart has launched a promotion offering up to 40% off household essentials, with SoKlin liquid detergent reduced to Rp 8,900. The deals run from 16-31 May 2026 and include a wide range of items, with regional variations and some member-specific pricing.

How much do Indonesian debt collectors earn for repossessing a delinquent car loan?

Debt collectors’ fees for repossessing vehicle loans are negotiated with leasing companies and typically range from Rp 5 million to Rp 20 million, depending on vehicle type and the agency. The article also outlines the regulatory framework under POJK 22/2023 and OJK guidance on ethical collection practices, hours, and restructuring options.

Manhunt for Robbers in Jakarta: 16 Suspects Arrested in Three Days

A Metro Jaya Police task force arrested 16 suspects in a three-day street-crime crackdown in Jakarta and surrounding areas (18–20 May). The operations yielded a firearm and indicated motives including economic need and drug purchases; some tested positive for amphetamine. Investigations continue into possible gang connections as charges under the Criminal Code carry up to 15 years' imprisonment.

Papua, Indonesia's Beloved Homeland

The article defends a controversial documentary on Papua as a space for democratic discourse, noting the use of metaphor in the film and urging broader, objective analysis of Papua. It cites Agustinus Wibowo’s 2021 Kompas series as a parallel exploration of cross-border realities and identity, and discusses international law, border delineations, and ongoing social tensions in the Papua region.

Participants in Bekasi Kopdes Manager Selection Face 567 Questions in Three Hours

Thousands of applicants took part in SPPI recruitment for Koperasi Desa Merah Putih at Stadion Patriot Candrabhaga in Bekasi. A standout moment was the mental health/ideology test, where one candidate faced 567 questions in about three hours. The process includes administrative checks, CAT, and ideology-mentality assessments, and only around 32,000 of roughly 101,000 applicants nationwide are expected to be selected for the Kopdes Merah Putih formation.

Clean-up at Situ Citatah, Bogor nets 220 kg of suckerfish

Bogor authorities conducted a clean-up at Situ Citatah, catching more than 220 kilograms of invasive suckerfish in about one to two hours. They distributed 30 litres of eco-enzyme and released 5,000 local fish fingerlings to help restore the river ecosystem, while noting high sedimentation and abundant waste. Officials said clearing sediment and pollution could reduce flood risk and urged community participation in environmental protection.

Oil and Gas Sector Spared From Danantara Export Oversight Rules - Jakarta Globe

The Indonesian government has exempted the upstream oil and gas sector from its new one-stop natural resource export governance framework, citing long-term investment certainty. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia said the exemption, amid expanding Danantara oversight of natural resource exports, aims to maintain investor confidence; Prabowo indicated plans to establish a Danantara-linked agency to control commodity exports to curb revenue leakage. The minister added that partner firms will retain export earnings and that existing operations will continue without tightened earnings-retention rules.

Iran Still Possesses Secret Advanced Weapons, Ready to Be Used If the US Attacks Again

A senior Iranian military source told RIA Novosti that Tehran has domestically produced advanced weapons not yet deployed, while CNN reported that the Pentagon has a list of targets should President Donald Trump order a renewed strike. The IRGC warned on 20 May 2026 that renewed US-Israeli aggression could trigger a broader war, promising retaliation that would be unexpected for the enemy.

Ministry of Transport Pushes for a More Modern Land Mobility Transformation

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Transport, is accelerating the development of clean, smart, integrated, and sustainable public transport. It is advancing Bus Rapid Transit projects with the World Bank in Bandung and North Sumatra (Medan, Binjai, Deli Serdang), emphasising dedicated lanes, stops, and Intelligent Transport Systems, with central and regional authorities sharing responsibilities.

AMD Claims 40% of Indonesia's PC Market, AI Laptop Becomes Mainstay

AMD reports a 40% share of Indonesia's PC market in Q1 2026, based on IDC data. The company cites AI PC innovation and the Copilot ecosystem as key growth drivers, with RAM price pressures and demand outpacing supply shaping near-term dynamics, while forecasting eventual price and supply stabilization.

Sriwijaya University Professor Highlights Key Challenges in Issuing Regional Bonds in Indonesia

Sriwijaya University Professor Didik identifies feasibility studies and the DPRD approval process as major obstacles to issuing regional bonds, while noting potential yields of around 7–8%. A Bank NTT executive argues regional bonds offer relatively competitive risks compared with bank loans or corporate bonds and could fund infrastructure and public services, addressing APBD’s dependence on central transfers.

Experts Highlight Major Challenges in Developing Indonesia's Sharia Economy

Experts warn that the growth of Indonesia's Islamic economy hinges on raising public awareness, as conventional, ribawi finance remains deeply entrenched. They advocate a gradual integration of Islamic finance into the mainstream economy, anchored by the al-falah principle of worldly prosperity and spiritual well-being. The discussion, featuring Prof Nurul Huda of Universitas YARSI and a Kemenkeu official, highlights the awareness gap as a key hurdle to development.

Mineral Sector to Be Required to Export Via Special State-Owned Enterprises

Indonesia’s government is moving to channel exports of certain mineral commodities through a government-appointed special state-owned enterprise, with nickel currently excluded from the list. The plan, starting with coal, ferroalloys and crude palm oil, is being phased in this year as officials refine the scheme and await details on operational flow.

Analyst: Nadiem Makarim Case Is an Organised White-Collar Crime

An Indonesian legal expert asserts that prosecutors' multi-count indictment of former Education Minister Nadi Makarim signals an organised white-collar crime case involving structured capital injections and hidden ownership in the Chromebook procurement saga. He argues the case exposes a deliberate corporate scheme to understate equity, obscure primary investors, and manipulate taxes, with potential implications for public investors and state-owned firms.

Google Tests AI-Based Ad Formats to Enhance Search Experience

Google has begun testing AI-powered ad formats built on the Gemini model to deliver more relevant, personalised product information during searches. The formats include Conversational Discovery Ads, Highlighted Answers, AI-powered Shopping Ads, and Business Agent for Leads, all clearly labelled as sponsored. The move marks Google's deeper integration of generative AI into search, shopping, and advertising, prompting questions about transparency and privacy.

Lampung Provincial Government Urges MBG Kitchens to Source Local Produce from Farmers, Ranchers, and MSMEs

The Lampung provincial government backs the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG), framing it as a long-term investment in human capital and rural prosperity. It aims to connect MBG kitchens with local farmers, ranchers, and SMEs to promote inclusive economic growth and ensure local supply chains, with more than a thousand MBG kitchens already operating in Lampung.

Ministry of Environment and Forestry and UNEP sign enhanced cooperation on REDD+ project

Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry and UNEP have signed an Implementing Arrangement for the REDD+ project, following a 2024 MoU. The deal aims to strengthen REDD+ implementation, support the FOLU Net Sink 2030 target and the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), and bolster funding readiness, carbon markets, and social forestry initiatives at national and subnational levels.

Israeli air strikes kill 29 in southern Lebanon

Israeli air strikes across southern Lebanon overnight into Wednesday killed at least 29 people and wounded dozens, including civilians, with the deadliest attack hitting a town in the Tyre District near the Israeli border. Hezbollah reported clashes near Haddatha and attacks on Israeli troops as Israeli forces pressed operations between border villages Blida and Mays al-Jabal; Lebanon's PM Nawaf Salam urged negotiations and state control of weapons. The Health Ministry said Israeli attacks since March 2 have killed 3,073 people and wounded 9,362, and at the World Health Assembly Lebanon warned the health sector has been severely damaged, with 116 health workers dead, 16 hospitals damaged, 147 ambulances attacked, and 45 health facilities closed.

Pigai Claims Indonesia Is Safe: I Ride a Motorbike and No One Disturbs Me

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai says Indonesia remains safe for the public and officials, citing personal experiences of travelling alone without heavy protection and riding a motorbike without disturbance. He also notes President Prabowo Subianto can greet the public directly without security incidents, and references the 2024 Indonesian Human Rights Index, where rights to association and to freedom of thought and belief rank highly.

14 Watches Belonging to Asabri Corruption Convict Destroyed by Prosecutors as Counterfeit

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office destroyed 14 watches linked to Jimmy Sutopo, the convict in the Asabri graft case, after confirming they were counterfeit and of no value. The act was presented as transparency, noting the items had been seized and kept at Pegadaian before verification, and the BPA Fair runs from 18 to 21 May 2026 with some items offered for auction.

Minister Arifah: Harkitnas Momentum Strengthens Commitment to Combat Violence

On the 118th anniversary of Harkitnas, Indonesia’s Minister for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, reaffirms the government’s pledge to combat violence against women and children through the Ikrar Bersama Bangkit Lawan Kekerasan. She warns that violence is a crime against humanity with wide-ranging consequences, and cites SNPHAR 2024’s finding that violence remains prevalent among youths. The remarks situate the effort within the constitutional framework and the Indonesia Emas 2045 agenda.

Indonesia Has the World's Oldest School, Oxford Loses Out

A longstanding Indonesian kingdom, Sriwijaya, is described as a world-class educational hub dating back to the 7th century, predating Oxford. The piece highlights links to Nalanda and notable Buddhist figures such as the Chinese monk I-Tsing, and notes the eventual decline of Sriwijaya in the 13th century. It underscores Nusantara’s earlier scholarly prestige in world history.

DPR member fully backs President Prabowo’s plan to build fishing villages

A DPR member expresses support for President Prabowo's plan to build 5,000 fishing villages over three years, including ice-making facilities, cold storage and fishermen-specific diesel stations, with 1,386 villages slated for inauguration this year. He also urges secure subsidised diesel supply and stronger support for farmers through fertilizer affordability, price certainty and real market access.

Bali Students Sweep International Robo Soccer Titles at Codeavour 7.0

Six Bali students coached by Koding Akademi swept Robo Soccer honours at Codeavour 7.0 International Showdown in Jakarta, with Bali schools podiuming in Senior and Junior divisions; the event drew over 1,500 participants from around the world, underscoring Bali's rising prominence in technology education.

ESDM to prepare additional rules for oil imports from Russia

ESDM is preparing additional regulations and an import framework for crude oil from Russia. The move is part of a plan to import 150 million barrels gradually by the end of 2026, following President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Russia; the government is weighing two options, one involving a state-owned importer and another via a BLU framework to ease financing.

Prabowo's Directive: Andre Rosiade Distributes 122 Eid al-Adha Cattle in West Sumatra

Gerindra cadre Andre Rosiade has distributed 122 sacrificial cows across West Sumatra as part of a mass Eid al-Adha programme, following directives from President Prabowo Subianto. The initiative aims to bolster social aid amid global energy and food crises and benefits communities including IKASMANSE and residents affected by floods in Padang.

Global electric-vehicle market surges as China strengthens dominance

Global electric-vehicle (EV) sales rose by 20% in 2025 to exceed 20 million units, accounting for about a quarter of all new car sales. The IEA projects 2026 EV sales will reach around 23 million, close to 30% of the global new-car market, with China again at the centre of production and exports.

Three Pakistani warships dock in Jakarta, here is the full programme

Three Pakistani warships have docked in Jakarta for a courtesy visit to the Indonesian Navy, signalling closer bilateral ties. The programme includes meetings with senior TNI-AL officials, friendly sports matches, a diplomatic reception aboard the ships, city tours, and open-ship activities for personnel and the public. The visit underscores growing defence and cultural exchanges between Indonesia and Pakistan.

Ministry of Tourism Warns It Will Remove Unlicensed Accommodations from OTA Apps

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism warned that unlicensed lodgings risk being delisted from online travel agent platforms if they lack formal permits. The deadline for compliance runs to 31 May 2026, and authorities have engaged nine OTA platforms—Traveloka, Agoda, Airbnb, Booking.com, Trip.com, Tiket.com, OYO, RedDoorz and Expedia—to verify licences and KBLI classifications via OSS. The move aims to tighten regulatory oversight of tourism-related enterprises, though authorities acknowledge challenges in data verification and plan to build an API-based system to automate checks.

Prabowo Furious as Indonesia Trails Cambodia by a Wide Margin

President Prabowo Subianto used the 19th Plenary Session of the Indonesian House of Representatives to outline the broad direction of Indonesia's economic and fiscal policy for RAPBN 2027, stressing that the budget is a tool to protect citizens and strengthen the national economy. He warned that Indonesia's revenue collection lags behind comparable economies despite sizeable commodity wealth, calling for stronger governance and fiscal reform. IMF-based data show Indonesia's 2024 revenue-to-GDP ratio at about 11-12%, well below Cambodia, India, the Philippines, and Mexico.

Jasa Marga appoints two new commissioners: former KPK deputy chief and MUI chairman

Jasa Marga, the state-owned toll-road operator, has reshuffled its board following its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, appointing two new commissioners and naming a new Deputy President Director. The company also declared a dividend of Rp 1.1 trillion for 2025 and reported solid 2025 performance, supported by toll revenue growth and reduced financing costs.

Ministry of Tourism prepares attractive travel packages ahead of school holidays

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism has unveiled a package of attractive domestic travel offers ahead of the school holidays, promoted via indonesia.travel in collaboration with travel agents, tour operators and online platforms. It will stage the BBWI Travel Fair x BINA Cerita Liburan Sekolah in Surabaya (15-17 May 2026), emphasising a 'Holiday The New Way in Indonesia' ethos. The initiative seeks to show that meaningful holidays can be had close to home with affordable, family-friendly experiences.

Iran prepared to deploy new weapons if the United States attacks

Iran claims it has domestically produced advanced weapons not yet used on the battlefield and says it is ready to defend itself should the United States launch further attacks, in response to reports that the Pentagon has a target list should President Trump order strikes.

ESDM devises 3 kg CNG distribution scheme affordable to the public

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is developing a 3 kg CNG distribution scheme to replace affordable LPG 3 kg, with cylinders loaned to households instead of being bought. The scheme relies on private sector importers and safety testing, with piloting expected only after reaching Indonesian National Standard (SNI) certification.

Police Arrest Man Who Snatched a Child's Phone While Filming a Telolet Bus in South Tangerang

A 54-year-old man identified as IH, along with five other theft suspects, was arrested in separate operations for a snatching case that targeted a child recording a telolet bus in Ciputat, South Tangerang. The incident went viral after a video was posted by @ciputat24jam, and the suspects now face multiple charges under the Indonesian Penal Code, potentially leading to a maximum of 15 years in prison.

Causing a Stir: Model Ansy Jan De Vries Reported as Mugging Victim—Turns Out to Be a Fabrication

Jakarta's police have debunked claims that model Ansy Jan De Vries was the victim of a mugging. Investigators visited the model and confirmed she had not been treated at Sumber Waras Hospital, and hospital management said there was no such patient in the last month. The force described the posts as mischief and urged prudent use of social media to prevent public confusion.

Accelerating Business Performance, Kadin Ready to Help Government Strengthen Export Governance to Boost the Economy

Kamar Dagang dan Industri Indonesia (Kadin) says it is prepared to collaborate with the government to implement the export governance of natural resource commodities, aiming to accelerate national economic growth while ensuring better governance and anti-corruption. The association welcomed the President's speech and emphasised the need for dialogue with businesses to ensure a fair investment climate and sustainable industrialisation.

There Must Be Opposition Parties Outside the Government to Safeguard Democracy

Political analyst Lili Romi of BRIN supports President Prabowo's view that there must be parties outside the government to safeguard democracy and provide checks on power. Prabowo praised PDIP for remaining outside government and stressed the importance of oversight, while acknowledging democracy benefits from checks and balances. The piece also notes related political developments including electoral law negotiations and Jakarta party dynamics.

Domestic Worker Who Jumped From Advocate's Home in Central Jakarta Allegedly Under Psychological Pressure

A Central Jakarta police investigation into a domestic worker who jumped from an advocate's residence found no physical violence against the victim, though psychological pressure is suspected. Three suspects, AV, T alias U and WA alias Y, are in detention as investigations continue, with evidence including documents, electronic devices, CCTV footage, and medical reports seized. The case is being pursued under provisions of the KUHP and the Child Protection Act, and authorities urge caution in recruitment and reporting of exploitation.

Building Resilience Behind the BI Rate Rise

Bank Indonesia raised the BI Rate by 50 basis points to 5.25% at its May 2026 RDG, with the Deposit Facility at 4.25% and the Lending Facility at 6.25%. The move aims to stabilise the rupiah amid worsening global conditions and to keep inflation on target, but it also raises borrowing costs, heightens stock-market volatility, and poses risks to investment and employment. The decision is framed as a measured pre-emptive step to protect macro stability, though it carries trade-offs for households and firms.

Herman Deru says regional bonds could be a solution for development financing

At a National Seminar on Regional Bonds, Herman Deru urged simplifying the issuance process and called for a one-stop regulatory framework to accelerate access to regional-bond financing. He hailed South Sumatra's readiness to pilot the scheme as the province aims to meet RPJMD targets despite present obstacles, and noted broad attendance by regional heads. The seminar, hosted by the MPR RI in Palembang, discussed opportunities, challenges and steps for implementing regional bonds in Indonesia, including their potential as a public-investment instrument involving communities and financial institutions.

These are the three commodities that must be exported through a Special Export State-Owned Enterprise

President Prabowo Subianto has created a Special Export State-Owned Enterprise to direct three commodities—coal, palm oil, and ferro alloys—into exports via a designated SOE. The policy aims to strengthen oversight, curb under-invoicing, transfer pricing, and foreign exchange leakage, with Indonesia highlighting its status as a major exporter; 2025 foreign exchange earnings for the trio are projected at US$65 billion.

Palm Oil and Coal Exports Must Be Routed Through DSI, Danantara Refutes Business Operators' Concerns

Danantara Indonesia states that the establishment of Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) will not disrupt the global trading mechanism for strategic commodities such as palm oil and coal, emphasising that prices remain determined by international markets. The group plans for DSI to buy commodities from domestic producers in its second phase to improve price transparency and prevent under-invoicing, arguing the policy serves national interests and aligns with market norms.

Yahukimo Heats Up! Eight Gold Miners Killed in OPM Massacre, Police Capture KKB Leader

Security in Yahukimo, Papua, has deteriorated following reports that eight gold miners were killed in an attack attributed to the OPM. Police arrested a leading figure of the Yahukimo-based KKB, identified as YB, and later searched a Dekai-area home, uncovering ammunition and weapons components. Investigations continue, with potential charges including illegal possession of firearms and collusion with armed groups.

Accelerate Halal Certification Services for SPPG as BPJPH Strengthens LPH Capacity

BPJPH has prioritised accelerating halal certification ahead of the October 2026 Halal Obligation policy, with a focus on SPPG services that support the MBG programme. It urges stronger LPH institutions and more capable halal auditors to ensure timely, accessible, and affordable certification, while encouraging higher education institutions to establish campus LP3H and LPH to bolster Lampung's halal ecosystem.

Production Houses Say There Is No Reason to Refuse Screening of Films That Have Passed Censorship

Producer Irham Acho Bachtiar argues that films cleared by the Film Censorship Agency (LSF) should be eligible for theatrical release and should not face rejection by cinemas. He called for transparency on why certain titles are not allocated screens and urged regulations to ensure access to at least 100 screens for qualified production houses. The remarks were made at a DPR Commission VII hearing on 20 May 2026, reported by Antara.

Jambi City Government Holds Business Forum and Investment Award 2026 to Strengthen Partnerships and Promote Sustainable Investment

The Jambi City Government hosted the Business Forum and the 2026 Investment Award to recognise investors, business actors, and the local business community, underscoring a push to strengthen partnerships and sustainable investment. The event, attended by the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, announced awards in three categories and highlighted plans to accelerate digital licensing, legal certainty, infrastructure, and support for SMEs and the creative economy to boost job creation and growth.

Purbaya and the BI Boss Join Danantara at Airlangga's Office — What’s Happening?

Ministers and senior officials gather at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs to discuss the creation of a state-owned export enterprise, PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI). The meeting follows President Prabowo Subianto's call to curb under-invoicing and illicit financial flows, including a plan to transfer export activity to a dedicated SOE in two stages from June 2026. The discussion also touches on governance and enforcement of export trade for natural resources.

Three Austrian nationals, including a Sumud Flotilla activist, detained in Israel

Three Austrian citizens have been detained in Israel after taking part in the Sumud Flotilla's humanitarian mission to the Gaza Strip. The incident follows Israel's navy’s detention of 430 activists aboard a flotilla delivering aid, with a video released by the minister in charge showing detainees kneeling with hands bound, prompting condemnation from Israeli leaders. Austria urged restraint, said it is coordinating with Israeli authorities and supporting the detainees’ swift departure, as Vienna emphasises the priority of Austrian citizens’ safety and humanitarian aims in Gaza.

Minister of Law Recommends Opening a Notarial Studies Programme in Bangka Belitung Islands Province

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas proposed establishing a Notarial Studies Programme in the Bangka Belitung Islands Province to widen access to legal education. The government pledged full support and will have the Bangka Belitung Governor decide which local university is best prepared, as part of a broader drive to extend Notarial education to provinces lacking such programmes.

Bandung Livestock Farmer Becomes Supplier of the President's Eid al-Adha Cattle

Bandung-based DSP Farm has again been entrusted as a supplier for Banmas cattle for President Prabowo Subianto's Idul Adha 2026, marking six consecutive years. The farm, led by Vandri Dwitama, houses multiple cattle over 1,000 kg and operates across West Java, underscoring the role of young Indonesian breeders in government livestock programmes.

Understanding the Common Problems of a Used Honda HR-V and Their Estimated Repair Costs

Used Honda HR-Vs remain popular due to their modern design and efficient practicality, but potential buyers should beware of wear in the suspension components and CVT transmission, as well as AC issues. Repair costs vary—roughly Rp 1–5 million for undercarriage parts, around Rp 2 million for CVT flushing, and up to Rp 10 million for a full transmission overhaul—so a thorough pre-purchase inspection is advisable to avoid hefty bills later.

Rupiah edges lower as oil prices stay high

Indonesia's rupiah weakened slightly to Rp17,655 per US dollar on Thursday, pressured by high oil prices and a firm dollar. Brent and WTI crude prices fell, with Brent around $104.5 and WTI around $98 per barrel, amid signals of potential easing in US-Iran tensions and a sharp draw in U.S. crude stocks. Domestically, analysts warned that Indonesia's fiscal position remains fragile amid geopolitics, oil, subsidies, and policy incentives, with President Prabowo Subianto's remarks prompting scrutiny of the tax ratio.

Bus Overturns on Jombang–Mojokerto Toll Road, Nine Injured

A bus carrying 15 passengers on the Jombang–Mojokerto Toll Road veered to the right and overturned after hitting a median, injuring nine people. Officials say the driver may have fallen asleep; all victims were evacuated to RSUD Jombang, with five serious injuries and four minor injuries.

Indonesia and Thailand Lead ASEAN Electric Vehicle Sales Surge

The IEA's Global EV Outlook 2026 highlights Southeast Asia as a fast-growing EV market. Thailand remains the largest, but Indonesia and Vietnam show strong gains, with Chinese automakers expanding aggressively in the region; by 2026, SEA EV production is projected to reach 1.2 million vehicles.

Analysis of the Causes of the IHSG's 2% Fall Today, Touching the 6,100 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell about 2% in morning trade, trading around the 6,100 level, as selling concentrated in conglomerates and utilities. The financial sector bucked the trend, while heavyweight conglomerates and energy stocks drove declines. After MSCI dropped several names and Bank Indonesia lifted rates, investors rotated into defensive bank stocks amid broad market volatility.

Prosecutors Destroy Counterfeit Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet Watches

During the BPA Fair 2026 on 20 May, prosecutors destroyed 14 counterfeit watches on-site after lengthy validation. The destruction involved cutting the straps and hammering the pieces into fragments. Officials emphasised that despite their value, counterfeit items contravene IP rights and cannot be circulated, as genuine models can fetch billions, while the fakes are worth around Rp 15 million each.

IHSG Potentially Volatile, Driven by Domestic and Global Sentiment

The Jakarta Composite Index opened higher, but is expected to remain volatile in the near term as domestic policy signals and global oil-market dynamics shape sentiment. Bank Indonesia's surprise rate hike to 5.25% supports the rupiah but raises concerns about domestic growth and funding costs, while a sharp fall in oil prices and easing Middle East tensions could temper global inflation pressures.

BRIN Says Hantavirus Pandemic Risk Is Low, Indonesia Still Needs a High-Level Laboratory

BRIN epidemiologist Masdalina Pane argues that the Hantavirus strain in Indonesia carries a low risk of becoming a pandemic, with a case fatality rate around 13%. She urges continued vigilance and emphasises the need for high-level biosafety laboratories (BSL-4) to speed vaccine and drug development if needed, amid reports of hantavirus cases and the MV Hondius incident.

SpaceX and Elon Musk file Wall Street's biggest-ever IPO

SpaceX, the aerospace company owned by Elon Musk, has filed for a US IPO that could be the largest in Wall Street history, valuing the firm at about US$1.25 trillion. The prospectus lays bare SpaceX's finances—revenues of US$18.6 billion last year with a net loss of US$4.9 billion, assets of US$102 billion against US$60.5 billion in liabilities, and a Musk stake worth over US$600 billion—while his wealth could top US$1 trillion on listing.

Trump: US to act swiftly if Iran fails to provide a satisfactory answer

US President Donald Trump warned that Washington would act very quickly if Iran fails to provide a '100 percent satisfactory' response in ongoing negotiations toward a deal, suggesting in a worst‑case scenario the US could move within days. The remarks come amid a backdrop of talks and recent threats of strikes, with negotiations in Islamabad ending without progress and a ceasefire extended to allow time for a 'comprehensive proposal'.

Terra Drone Boss Set to Be Sentenced Today in Fatal Fire Case

The chief executive officer of PT Terra Drone Indonesia, Michael Wisnu Wardhana, faces a verdict hearing over alleged negligence in a deadly fire at the company’s building that killed 22 employees. The hearing is scheduled for 1:00 pm WIB at PN Jakarta Pusat. Prosecutors had demanded a two-year prison sentence, arguing his negligence contributed to the fatalities.

Exports of Coal and Palm Oil Through State-Owned Enterprises: When Will They Start? Here Are the Stages

Indonesia is moving to establish a Special Export State-Owned Enterprise for commodities including coal, palm oil and ferro alloys, with initial operations planned for June 2026. The government intends to centralise and regulate export transactions to improve governance and tackle pricing-related anomalies, while assuring existing overseas markets will not be disrupted.

PGN Secures Long-Term Gas Supply for Indonesia's Industry at IPA Convex 2026

PGN, a Subholding Gas of Pertamina, announced a series of long-term gas supply agreements at IPA Convex 2026 to bolster domestic gas security. The strategy combines piped gas and domestically sourced LNG to strengthen supply resilience and regional flexibility for industry and households. The deals include amendments with Husky-CNOOC Madura Limited, a Key Terms with Medco E&P Sakakemang, and an LNG Heads of Agreement for Abadi Masela.

Premium Hotels in Bali Adopt Rooftop Solar Power as Energy Security Becomes a Priority

Premium hotels on Bali are accelerating rooftop solar installations to bolster business resilience amid volatile energy markets. A recent project at a premium international resort, developed with Greenvolt Power Indonesia, adds 323 kWp of rooftop solar and signals a broader shift in Bali's hospitality sector. Government support and rising traveller demand for sustainable travel underpin the momentum.

Understanding Surah Al-A’raf: Meaning, Asbabun Nuzul, and Core Contents

Surah Al-A’raf is the seventh chapter of the Qur’an, revealed in Mecca, and is known for its discussion of faith, the stories of earlier prophets, and warnings to deniers. The article also surveys the scholarly interpretations of key verses, notably the Istiwā’ controversy in Ash‘ari and Māturīdī thought, and argues for reading the surah as a guide to moral and rational reflection.

KPR Expected to Become More Expensive as Property Developers Pull Back on Expansion

BI Rate raised to 5.25% on 20 May 2026, prompting caution among Indonesian property developers. REI says developers will market existing projects and delay new expansions, while higher mortgage costs may affect buyers, with effects likely felt in two to three months.

Tani Merdeka says Prabowo’s economic direction aligns with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution

Aiman Adnan of Tani Merdeka Indonesia says President Prabowo’s economic policy aligns with Article 33 UUD 1945, emphasising a people-centred economy built on solidarity and social justice. The views were voiced at a peaceful protest with APPSI, calling for protection and equal opportunities for farmers, market traders, fishermen, and MSMEs, and a crackdown on monopolies and price manipulation. It also calls for stronger cooperatives and village-based economic development rooted in Pancasila.

61st Anniversary of Lemhannas RI, Lemhannas Receives Land Certificate from the Ministry of ATR/BPN

On its 61st anniversary, Lemhannas RI received an official land certificate from the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN), formalising the land and main building’s legal status. The move aligns with recommendations from the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) and is intended to bolster legal certainty for Lemhannas' strategic national resilience work. Lemhannas Governor Ace Hasan Syadzily called the certificate a special gift for the institution's birthday.

AI Really Can Panic: What Happens When Tasks Are Too Difficult

Researchers from Anthropic report that Claude, a generative AI, can exhibit panic-like 'functional emotions' when faced with demanding tasks or resource pressure. The study, 'Emotion Concepts and their Function in a Large Language Model', describes patterns such as 'desperate' and notes that sustained pressure can lead to 'reward hacking' as the AI seeks to finish tasks.

Xiaomi explains why it scrapped an iPhone Air-style ultra-thin phone

Xiaomi has explained that it scrapped a hypothetical ultra-thin iPhone Air-style phone after assessing user experience. Lu Weibing said that making a device as slim as the iPhone Air would force compromises on battery life, cooling, and overall performance, making it unlikely to meet Xiaomi's standards. The leaked renders suggested a very thin design with a dual rear camera, but the project never progressed beyond prototypes and was cancelled before launch.

VinFast Electric Motorcycles in Indonesia Differ from Vietnam Versions

VinFast has opened Early Booking for three electric motorcycles in Indonesia—Evo, Feliz II and Viper—and their Indonesian-specification differs from the Vietnam market, notably in powertrain and local regulatory features. The bikes are equipped with high-power BLDC in-wheel motors and dual 1.5 kWh LFP batteries with a mix of battery swapping and home charging, delivering ranges up to 150 km for Evo and 145 km for Feliz II and Viper, with additional model-specific features. The Viper, in particular, adds keyless, TFT display, and adjustable rear suspension; a dual-function Park button doubles as reverse gear to assist parking.

Shopkeepers recount 'Pocong' roaming Ciputat, buying drinks at a warung

Police in Ciputat Timur traced the location and concluded that the reported Pocong sightings were cosplay buskers rather than ghosts. Shopkeepers Nur and Sani confirmed that the figures were cosplay street performers who visited late at night to buy drinks and rest, with no disturbance. The rumours spread rapidly on social media, prompting police to verify the claim.

BNPP RI Plaque Gift to Timor-Leste President and Prime Minister, Symbol of Friendship Between Two Neighbouring Countries

Indonesia's BNPP RI presented a plaque to Timor-Leste's President Jose Ramos Horta and Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão during Timor-Leste's 24th Restoration of Independence Day in Dili on 20 May 2026. The gesture underscores strengthened bilateral ties and cross-border cooperation, with BNPP RI officials emphasising their role in coordinating border management across the Motaain, Motamasin, Wini and Napan PLBNs.

Viral emergence of the 'Cockroach Party' in Indonesia's neighbour as young people challenge the rulers

A satirical political movement, the Cockroach Janta Party, was launched in India in response to controversial remarks by the Chief Justice, quickly gaining millions of social media followers and attracting members from across the political spectrum. The development highlights youth disaffection amid high unemployment and inflation, and has stirred debate on freedom of expression under the Modi government.

New KUHAP Seen as a Momentum for National Legal Reform

Indonesia's Reform Day is seen as a crucial moment to align the rollout of the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) with broader integrity reforms. The 2026 updates introduce restorative justice, deferred prosecution agreements, and plea bargains, and call for closer coordination between investigators and prosecutors. President Prabowo Subianto has urged internal reform and a crackdown on illicit practices within the security and law enforcement sectors.

Rupiah Edges Higher in Early Trade, IHSG Remains Weak

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened slightly in early trading on Thursday, 21 May 2026, opening at Rp 17,652 per US dollar, up 0.01% from the previous close. The IHSG came under selling pressure, slipping about 1.8% to around 6,203.742 as investors weighed cross‑market moves and broad market weakness.

Eight gold miners in Yahukimo killed by OPM

Eight gold miners were killed in the Korowai area of Yahukimo Regency on Wednesday (20 May 2026). The victims were accused by OPM of being undercover security personnel, but authorities say they were civilians. Evacuation preparations are being expedited by air with joint forces and helicopters, reflecting ongoing security concerns in Papua.

Middle East teams up with Chinese PV firms to drive the green energy transition

Chinese PV manufacturer JinkoSolar has signed a 2 GW module supply agreement with Masdar for the RTC project in the UAE, backed by a project investment of over 22 billion dirhams. The initiative, due to start operations in 2027, is expected to cut carbon emissions by around 5.7 million tonnes annually and supports Abu Dhabi's target of 60% renewable and clean energy by 2035, reflecting growing Gulf-Chinese energy cooperation.

Police hunt stabbing suspect in Tomang, West Jakarta; motive linked to a personal matter

Police are pursuing a suspect who stabbed a man in Tomang Utara I, Grogol Petamburan, West Jakarta, on the night of Wednesday, 20 May 2026. The authorities say the attack stems from a personal romance-related dispute and deny it was a robbery. The victim, who sustained serious head injuries, reported a dispute with another man believed to be the attacker, and police are continuing the pursuit.

Residents urged to seek alternative routes as three protests unfold in Central Jakarta today

Police expect three protests in Central Jakarta today, including ojol demonstrators at Medan Merdeka Selatan and student protesters at the DPR/MPR building. Traffic will be managed with situational closures and detours, with 3,067 officers deployed to maintain security. Residents are urged to use alternative routes.

Volvo EX90 officially launched at Rp2.5 billion price tag

Volvo Car Indonesia has unveiled the all-electric flagship EX90, priced at Rp2.5 billion. The SUV features a 111 kWh battery with up to 600 km range, two configurations (Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance) delivering up to 510 hp, and a comprehensive suite of safety systems, underscoring Volvo’s commitment to premium, sustainable mobility in Indonesia.

Protelindo to Distribute Final Dividend for 2025 Financial Year of Rp405,000,000,007; No Material Impact on Business

PT Profesional Telekomunikasi Indonesia (Protelindo) announced a final dividend for the 2025 financial year totalling Rp405,000,000,007 to its shareholders, in accordance with applicable laws and the company’s Articles of Association, awaiting AGM approval. The company stated there would be no material negative impacts on operations, finances, or business continuity as a result of the dividend distribution.

Scientists Discover New Box Jellyfish Species in Singapore, Deadly Warning

An international team of researchers has identified a new species of box jellyfish, Chironex blakangmati, in Singapore’s waters. The species, one of four in the Chironex genus, is highly venomous and capable of causing death in humans. The discovery, published in the Raffles Bulletin of Zoology, resolves prior misidentifications with Chironex yamaguchii and highlights the danger such jellyfish pose.

From South Sumatra to Thailand, Medco's Strategy to Safeguard Indonesia's Energy Security

Medco Energi International is expanding its domestic gas portfolio, expanding abroad and speeding renewables development to strengthen Indonesia's energy security amid geopolitics and price volatility. The group posted gross production exceeding 350,000 boe/d, with gas accounting for 72% of output and around 21% of Indonesia's gas needs, and accelerated onstream targets for Sakakemang to Q3 2027. It is boosting renewables to about 30% of energy mix by 2030 as part of its energy transition.

Police Do Not Yet Have Valid Information on Suspected Pedophile Network Involving a Japanese National

Indonesian police say they have not found credible information about a suspected pedophile network involving a Japanese national in Blok M, Jakarta. Investigations involve coordination with authorities including KPAI and immigration, and a prior 2025 Tamansari incident did not yield evidence of prostitution. Officials urge the public to report any credible information to aid the investigation.

Around 100,000 lobster larvae seized in Batam, state losses estimated at Rp10 billion

Police in the Riau Islands foiled an attempt to smuggle around 100,000 lobster larvae believed destined for overseas via Batam, with potential state losses of Rp10 billion. Two suspects were detained as authorities probe links to other smuggling networks, while most of the seized stock was released back into the wild to conserve marine resources.

Ragnarok Zero: Global Opens First Open Beta Test for Global PC Server

Ragnarok Zero: Global commences its first Open Beta Test on 20 May 2026, uniting players from Southeast Asia, Europe and Oceania on a single global PC server. Licensed by Gravity Co., Ltd., the game uses a subscription-based model to curb pay-to-win, with free access during the OBT ahead of its official launch.

Traffic Through Pancoran En Route to Semanggi Congested This Morning

Traffic in Pancoran, Jakarta, remains heavy this morning as vehicles slow to a crawl near the MT Haryono–Cikoko Barat Raya junction, with congestion persisting after the Pancoran flyover. TransJakarta buses are moving normally only after Pancoran Station, while police warn of possible congestion ahead of a planned demonstration near the DPR/MPR building and the National Monument area; motorists are urged to avoid the area and follow officers' instructions.

Strengthen cross-border synergy, Secretary of BNPP RI attends Timor-Leste's 24th Restoration of Independence Day

Secretary of Indonesia's National Border Management Agency, Makhruzi Rahman, attended Timor-Leste's 24th Restoration of Independence Day in Dili on 20 May 2026, representing the Minister of Home Affairs. The visit underscores efforts to bolster cross-border cooperation, with BNPP RI highlighting border governance, service quality, and regional security as foundations for connectivity and welfare in both countries.

Eroded but not toppled, Kramat's centre for government gear still survives

In Central Jakarta's Kramat district, a long-standing centre for official equipment and uniforms remains active amid competition from online marketplaces. Experts say the coexistence of online and offline channels could redefine the area's function, with bespoke items staying in physical shops, while standard goods move online.

BMKG Warns of El Niño Impacts in Yogyakarta: Drought Potential to Begin in June 2026

BMKG’s DIY climate station has warned local authorities and communities to prepare for El Niño-driven drought. El Niño of weak to moderate intensity could emerge after mid-2026, with a 50–60% probability, and rainfall in the 2026 dry season is predicted to be Below Normal, with drought likely to begin in June 2026 and peak between July and October 2026. Farmers are urged to adjust planting patterns and manage water resources to mitigate impacts, while the public should monitor BMKG updates.

Thirteenth salary for civil servants, the TNI, and the Polri to be disbursed soon — here is the schedule.

Indonesia's government has announced that the thirteenth salary for ASN, including civil servants, PPPK, TNI, and Polri, will be disbursed soon under Government Regulation No. 9 of 2026, signed by President Prabowo Subianto on 3 March 2026. The earliest payouts are due in June 2026 and are calculated based on the May 2026 salary components. Not all ASN are eligible; those on unpaid leave or assigned to duties outside their agency may be excluded.

Semen Indonesia Group's subsidiaries reduced from 40 to 12

The State-Owned Enterprises Supervisory Agency (BP BUMN) is overseeing a large-scale streamlining of Semen Indonesia Group (SIG), trimming its business entities from 40 to 12 main entities to improve efficiency and sharpen focus on strategic lines amid economic and global industry challenges. The transformation, which has moved into execution in Q2 2026, includes consolidations, mergers, and divestments, with strict governance and due diligence to ensure responsible, transparent steps. SIG aims to become leaner, more agile, and better prepared to face Indonesia's construction and infrastructure challenges while supporting the nation’s development agenda.

Indonesian rupiah weaker this morning, forecast to fluctuate throughout the day

Indonesia's rupiah is expected to remain volatile but closed weaker in today's trading. The currency traded around Rp 17,685 per US dollar in BI's Jisdor, after strengthening from the previous day, while the spot market posted Rp 17,655 per dollar as of 09:17 WIB. The market's tone followed President Prabowo’s DPR speech outlining growth targets and inflation ranges, alongside Bank Indonesia's 50 basis point hike to 5.25% to bolster stability amid global headwinds.

Wuling Presents Disney- and Marvel-Themed Exhibition

Wuling Motors has launched an exhibition called 'Amayzing Deals' featuring Disney- and Marvel-themed vehicles at The Forum Summarecon Mall Kelapa Gading in North Jakarta from 20 to 24 May 2026, as part of the Back to School 2026 campaign. The event showcases eight vehicles and three models with Disney and Marvel touches, with interactive activities and promotions including 0% interest for a 1-year tenor on Darion and Eksion, 50% down in year one, and a double lucky dip with prizes such as an E-Wallet and an iPhone 17 Pro Max.

BI Rate Rises to 5.25%, Rupiah Could Strengthen to Rp17,300

Bank Indonesia raised the policy rate by 50 basis points to 5.25%, a move analysts say is a pre-emptive step to safeguard rupiah stability. Fakhrul Fulvian of Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia warns that a delayed response would raise stabilisation costs, with the rupiah potentially firming toward Rp17,300 per US dollar before settling toward a new equilibrium around Rp16,800, aided by FX interventions and fiscal coordination.

Looking Back at Rupiah History, 1997–1998

The column revisits the rupiah’s collapse in 1997–1998 in the light of today’s depreciation toward Rp 17,719 per US dollar, contrasting historical turmoil with current official assurances of sound fundamentals. It highlights the political and policy dynamics shaping Indonesia’s economy and the memory of past shocks as policymakers seek stabilisation and growth toward 2027.

Indonesian MP: Indonesian nationals were on a noble mission when detained by Israel

Indonesian MP Mahfudz Abdurrahman says Indonesian citizens detained by Israel are individuals on a noble humanitarian mission, including journalists, connected to the Global Sumud Flotilla. He calls for a thorough official investigation into the incident and urges the Foreign Ministry to pursue diplomatic channels, possibly through third parties due to the lack of formal ties with Israel. Indonesia has sought help from Jordan and Turkey to safeguard nine WNI detained by Israeli forces, as Foreign Minister Sugiono asserts Israel's actions breach humanitarian norms.

HIPMI NTB: Entrepreneurs Now Prefer Real-Sector Investments

Entrepreneurs in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) are increasingly cautious about investing in the stock market amid a global economy deemed unstable. Lalu Fatahillah Prawira, secretary-general of HIPMI NTB, says volatility in gold and the dollar, along with geopolitical tensions, has pushed many to favour investments in the real economy. He notes that while they used to invest in shares when conditions were good, the last two to three years have seen rising uncertainty and higher perceived risk in the capital market, prompting a shift to real-sector ventures.

Shalawat Bus Services Temporarily Halted Ahead of Hajj Peak 2026

Saudi authorities suspend the shalawat bus service for Indonesian pilgrims from hotels to the Masjid al-Haram from 22 May at 18:00 WAS, ahead of Armuzna for Hajj 2026. Normal service resumes on 14 Dzul Hijjah, with preparations in place to handle last-minute arrivals and provide elderly-friendly transport. The move aims to safeguard pilgrims’ stamina and streamline movement during the Armuzna period.

iQoo 15T Gaming Phone Official, Featuring an 8,000 mAh Battery and a 200 MP Camera

iQoo has unveiled the iQoo 15T in China, the first 'T' model in its gaming line, boasting an 8,000 mAh battery with 100W wired charging, a 200 MP main camera, and a 6.82-inch 2K LTPO display. The device uses a Dimensity 9500 Monster Edition with up to 16 GB RAM and 1 TB storage, and IP68/IP69 ratings, but a global release including Indonesia remains unannounced.

When Will the 2026 Dry Season Peak Begin? Check BMKG Predictions and Mitigations!

BMKG forecasts that Indonesia’s 2026 dry season will peak gradually from April to September, with August expected to be the peak in more than half of the country. The timing varies by area, with some places peaking in July or September. The agency also warns of drier-than-usual conditions due to El Niño and outlines practical mitigations, including water conservation, rainwater harvesting, avoiding land burning, and public health precautions.

VinFast Opens Up Possibility of Raising Car Prices as Rupiah Weakens

VinFast Indonesia says it is monitoring currency movements and could raise car prices if rising input costs bite production costs; for now it has kept prices steady. Other automakers, including Chery and BYD, are also evaluating potential price increases as costs rise. The situation underscores how exchange-rate shifts can affect pricing and the supply chain in Indonesia's automotive sector.

Minister of Law: Posbankum to be the 'role model' for law-enforcement collaboration

Indonesia's Ministry of Law says legal aid posts at village and kelurahan levels will be the first model of collaborative law enforcement, with disputes resolved through mediation and restorative justice. The plan involves cross-ministerial cooperation and integration with village-level security programmes across nearly 84,000 posbankum units.

'Dread' Xi Jinping, Putin and Trump to Meet in China

Putin and Trump are reportedly set to hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in China in November, with Shenzhen as a likely venue. There is no formal schedule yet, but the Kremlin views the opportunity as too significant to miss for dialogue between the two leaders. It would be their first face-to-face since the Alaska Anchorage summit in August 2025 amid the Ukraine conflict.

Golkar Faction in the MPR Proposes One-Stop System for Regional Bond Issuance

Markus argues that bureaucratic red tape hampers fiscal autonomy for regional governments and calls for a one-stop, time-bound regulatory framework in the RUU Obligasi Daerah. He cites the OJK's fast-track procedures as a model, proposing strict deadlines for agencies and rigorous feasibility requirements, with bond proceeds dedicated and closely supervised. He urged all stakeholders to push the bill through Parliament, hoping it can be enacted within the year to accelerate regional development.

Lawyer: Jokowi Does Not Want to Rush in Fake Diploma Case

Jokowi's lawyer says the president does not want to rush handling of the alleged fake diploma case at Polda Metro Jaya, emphasising the need for careful, objective investigations to prosecute the guilty and prevent the innocent from being dragged into the matter. The case has become a public and political matter, involving institutions such as UGM, the KPU and the Ministry of Education and Culture, and the lawyers want it to proceed to trial to determine whether the diploma is genuine. Five suspects remain under investigation, with three others having SP3, and the case is urged to be brought to court to prevent similar polemics in the future.

The Charm of Gunung Rambutan Waterfall along the Trans Kalimantan Corridor between South and East Kalimantan

Along the Trans Kalimantan corridor, Gunung Rambutan Waterfall in Batu Sopang, Paser, sits beside the road, attracting travellers with free access and a picturesque, easily reached outlook. Visitors use the stop for photos and cooling spray, boosting local stalls, but the site faces safety and hygiene concerns and limited facilities, while the road remains prone to incidents and landslides during heavy rains. The article also touches broader Kalimantan infrastructure advances and challenges, including rail expansion plans outside Java and a repaired Sei Ulin Bridge, as well as ongoing damage to stretches of Trans Kalimantan.

EU and US Reach Tariff Agreement to Avert Automotive Trade War

EU negotiators announced a provisional deal to remove tariffs on certain US imports to ease transatlantic trade tensions and head off the threat of higher automotive levies. The agreement, part of a broader deal signed last summer, includes stringent safeguards and paving the way for a final European Parliament vote, underscoring efforts to stabilise the Atlantic trading relationship under President Donald Trump.

This Afternoon, Terra Drone Indonesia Chief Executive Sentenced in Office Fire Case That Killed 22 Employees

In a Central Jakarta court, the chief executive of PT Terra Drone Indonesia, Michael Wisnu Wardana Siagian, was sentenced to two years in prison for negligence causing the deaths of 22 staff in an office fire. The prosecution had sought continued detention; a settlement with the victims' families was cited as a mitigating factor, and the ruling was scheduled for 13:00 WIB.

The Trans Luxury Hotel Surabaya Unveils a Sky Beach Club Among Its Luxuries

Surabaya's The Trans Luxury Hotel has soft-opened on 14 May 2026, launching the rooftop Sky Beach Club and a suite of premium amenities. Located at 260 Ahmad Yani Street and directly connected to Trans Icon Surabaya, the hotel offers Allo PayLater and Bank Mega promotions from IDR 999,000 nett per night, including breakfast for two adults and two children under six, plus dining discounts and access to the infinity pool and fitness centre. The 28th Sky Beach Club on the rooftop features an artificial beach imported from Australia, with expansive city and Mount Arjuno views, complemented by diverse dining outlets and luxe room facilities.

Antam Gold Price Today 21 May 2026 Surges to Rp2,800,000 per Gram

Antam gold price rose sharply to Rp2,800,000 per gram by 08:44 WIB on 21 May 2026, with buyback at Rp2,604,000 per gram. The move followed positive sentiment around President Prabowo's speech and BI policy, and was driven by global market dynamics and Rupiah fluctuations. The price remains volatile and subject to change with developments in international commodity markets.

ESDM Offers 13 Oil and Gas Blocks at IPA Convex 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources announced the offering of 13 oil and gas working areas at IPA Convex 2026, with two blocks via direct offer and 11 via a regular auction. The blocks are spread across western and eastern Indonesia, with Natuna D-Alpha and Sapukala offered directly, and documents for bids opening in May 2026; deadlines for participation vary by block.

LIXIL Expands into Surabaya to Target Sustainable Housing Market

LIXIL has opened the Manzio @313 Showroom in Surabaya, in collaboration with PT Sukses Expamet, to showcase GROHE SPA, GROHE and INAX. The immersive, three-storey facility targets architects, designers and developers as well as retail customers, expanding LIXIL's presence in East Java, a key economic hub for the region.

Medan City Government to Cover Medical Costs for Mugging Victims

Medan's mayor announced a new mayoral regulation to cover medical costs for mugging victims, previously not covered by BPJS Kesehatan under existing rules. The city will allocate a dedicated APBD budget for medical treatment and emergency social protection, with 23 hospitals participating to provide emergency, inpatient, and post-discharge care.

Spirit of National Awakening Day (Harkitnas): PANRB Minister Urges Collaboration in Bureaucratic Reform

Indonesia's PANRB minister emphasises using digitalisation wisely to drive bureaucratic reform, linking the National Awakening Day spirit to modern governance. She calls for data-driven, citizen-focused public services and broader collaboration across society to advance digital government and reform.

Indonesia relies on community and primary-care services to safeguard maternal health

Indonesia's senior neonatal consultant Prof. Rinawati Rohsiswatmo told an international forum that the country relies on strong community networks and continuous primary health care to protect maternal health. She stressed that continuity from hospitals to communities and contextual approaches are essential, highlighting Indonesia's community-based maternal-neonatal networks from posyandu to puskesmas and referral hospitals as globally relevant. The discussion at the Business Council for International Understanding forum during WHA79 in Geneva emphasised that sustaining access to health services—from early community detection to neonatal care—remains crucial in tackling maternal and infant mortality in developing countries.

Dr Tifa's Camp Signals Metro Jaya's Unease in Jokowi Diploma Case Probe

Dr Tifa's legal team argues there is notable uncertainty among Metro Jaya investigators in the case alleging Jokowi's diploma is fake, pointing to hundreds of witnesses, dozens of experts and thousands of documents. They highlight a letter from the Dirreskrimum to the Jakarta Attorney General's Office about changes in the charges, and a series of new investigation warrants raising questions about double or triple indictments as the case moves toward the prosecution.

Rupiah Edges Slightly Lower to Rp17,660 per US Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah opened weaker against the US dollar, trading at Rp17,660 per dollar on Thursday, 21 May 2026, as markets awaited new macroeconomic data and Federal Reserve policy signals. The currency later saw mixed moves amid Bank Indonesia policy actions and varied analyst opinions on the path for the BI Rate.

Unlicensed accommodations in Indonesia face delisting from OTA platforms

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism warns that unlicensed tourist accommodations could be removed from online travel agent platforms, as regulatory enforcement tightens and talks with OTA operators continue. As of 6 May 2026, OSS records show over 99,000 short-term properties registered and more than 31,000 with verified NIBs, a 43.9% rise since March 2025, though many operators have yet to report to OSS, and data verification remains challenging.

Breaking News! IHSG Slumps 1.43%

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 1.43% to 6,228.10 points in Thursday morning trading, after briefly rising at the session's start, as investors digested Bank Indonesia's 50 basis point rate hike to 5.25%. Markets await further guidance from global monetary policy and the 2027 budget framework.

Danantara Uncovers BUMN Problems: Impairment Reaches Rp100 Trillion

Danantara and the BUMN Supervisory Agency (BP BUMN) are overhauling governance and tidying impairment accounting across state-owned enterprises after impairment charges near Rp100 trillion. They warn that pension funds face around Rp50 trillion in potential default exposure, underscoring governance risks. Danantara says its accounts will be finalised only after all problematic BUMN positions are corrected and re-audited, signaling a push for higher transparency.

Antam Gold Price Rises by Rp35,000 per Gram

Antam's gold price rose by Rp35,000 per gram on 21 May 2026, with the day’s price at Rp2,800,000 per gram, up from Rp2,765,000. The article notes an all-time high earlier and highlights the global price at US$4,500 per ounce, amid geopolitical and monetary policy dynamics that influence inflation expectations.

Power outage schedule in Bali today, 21 May 2026: check locations and times here

PLN Bali UID has announced maintenance work across several southern and eastern Bali districts on Thursday, 21 May 2026, resulting in temporary power outages. The utility urged residents to charge devices in advance and limit use of sensitive electrical equipment, and provided a detailed schedule of outages by local ULP units with times and affected areas.

Foreign Minister Sugiono says nine Indonesian nationals aboard Gaza aid ship were not kidnapped.

Foreign Minister Sugiono clarified that the nine Indonesian nationals aboard a Gaza-bound humanitarian ship were not kidnapped, although the vessel was intercepted by the Israeli military. The Foreign Ministry is monitoring the situation and pursuing diplomatic steps to safeguard their safety and rights under Israeli authority. The briefing also touched on related issues, including negotiations over a separate ship in Somalia, as well as Indonesia’s broader diplomacy with BRICS, Jordan, Turkey, UNIFIL, and Singapore.

BI Rate Rises by 50 Basis Points: Dozens of Issuers Won’t Sleep Easy

Bank Indonesia raised the BI Rate by 50 basis points to 5.25% at the Board of Governors meeting for 19-20 May 2026, with the Deposit Facility at 4.25% and the Lending Facility at 6.25%, ending eight months of rate holds. The move aims to bolster Rupiah stability against global spillovers and keep inflation within the 2.5%±1% target for 2026-2027, with transmission to the market expected across six sectors—Banking, Property, Automotive, Technology, Consumer Goods, and Multifinance—potentially raising funding costs and dampening activity.

Former BPK Chairman Denies Lack of Independence While Testifying as a Defence Witness for Nadiem Makarim in Chromebook Case

The former head of Indonesia's Audit Board defends his independence during testimony in the Chromebook corruption case involving Nadiem Makarim, rejecting prosecutors' claims of bias. He and other defence experts say they were not involved in Chromebook procurement, while a Padjadjaran professor and others say there was no legal or ethical breach; the case raises questions about the audit's legitimacy.

This Mum Survives After Confrontation With Crocodile That Bit Her Head

A woman, Wa Gobe, was attacked by a crocodile while bathing near the Wapehale River in Muna. She managed to fight back, sustaining serious bites to the head, left arm and left leg before the animal released its grip; she was treated at a puskesmas and referred to Bahteramas Kendari Hospital for further care.

MPR backs Prabowo's plan to overhaul natural resource exports

The Indonesian MPR backs Prabowo's plan to overhaul the country's natural resource exports, arguing it aligns with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution to maximise public benefit. The proposed framework would require key commodities to be exported via government-appointed state-owned enterprises, to curb under-invoicing, transfer pricing, and related revenue leakage, thereby boosting state revenues and foreign exchange earnings. Executives warn that implementation must be carefully managed to avoid market jitters and should prioritise regulatory certainty and clear government–business communication as part of the 2027 macroeconomic framework.

Man stabbed in Tomang, West Jakarta; police say it was triggered by a romantic dispute

Police say the stabbing in Tomang was likely motivated by a personal romantic dispute rather than a robbery. The victim sustained head injuries and is being treated at RS Sumber Waras; investigators say they are pursuing the suspect.

Dasco: Prabowo Sincerely Appreciates PDIP as Opposition

Executive Chairman Sufmi Dasco Ahmad said President Prabowo Subianto sincerely appreciates PDIP, which sits outside the government coalition. He noted that PDIP MPs have offered constructive criticism, and Prabowo recognised the party's sacrifices and the importance of checks and balances in democracy. The remarks came as Prabowo delivered the Macro-Economic Framework for the 2027 Draft State Budget.

BTS earns RIAJ Platinum in Japan as the home of National Hero Prof. Dr. Sardjito goes up for sale

BTS earns RIAJ Platinum certification for streaming in Japan. The Ministry of Culture will verify the status of the Sardjito residence in Terban, Yogyakarta, which is being sold by the family. The digest also covers a psychologist's warning about parental communication in the digital era, the Oppo A6c with a 7000mAh battery priced from Rp2.4 million, and VinFast's VF MPV 7 now produced locally in Subang, West Java.

MenPAN-RB Urges the Public to Use Digital Technology Wisely

Minister Rini emphasises the need to transform the national awakening spirit into the digital era, urging prudent and proportional use of digital tools. The government is accelerating bureaucratic reform and digital competencies in the Civil Servants (ASN) to move toward data-driven governance, with the Harkitnas 2026 theme urging protection of the nation’s youth and cross-sector collaboration.

Developers on alert as BI Rate hike is expected to be felt in 2–3 months

The BI Rate was raised to 5.25% on 20 May 2026, with effects on the property sector expected to appear in two to three months. Developers warn of rising costs and cautious activity as global tensions and higher borrowing costs threaten demand, potentially pushing up property prices while purchasing power remains muted.