Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 May 2026

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GMFI Books Net Profit of Rp570 Billion in 2025

GMFI booked a net profit of US$33.9 million (Rp570 billion) in 2025 on revenue of US$491.9 million (about Rp8.25 trillion), up 26.3% from 2024. The year saw a substantial improvement in the balance sheet, aided by a Rp5.6 trillion land-in-kind contribution, and growth in non-group affiliate revenue, plus aircraft reactivations within the Garuda Indonesia Group.

Aesthetic Care Trends Shift Toward Natural Results and Minimal Downtime

Indonesia's aesthetic care is shifting toward natural-looking results and shorter recovery times as demand for comfortable, non-invasive treatments grows. The launch of XERF by Cynosure Lutronic at Blink Beauty Clinic signals a push by clinics to offer safer, more natural lifting and tightening with minimal downtime. The device uses multi-frequency RF with real-time impedance feedback to target deeper skin layers.

AI Boom Drives Demand for More Advanced Data Centre Cooling Technology

AI growth, cloud computing, and the acceleration of digital transformation are driving higher-density data centre requirements. In Indonesia, global data centre capacity is expected to quadruple, with IT load projected to rise from 1,717 MW in 2026 to 4,145 MW by 2031 (CAGR 19.27%), pushing demand for advanced cooling, including hybrid and liquid cooling to enhance energy efficiency and reliability.

AI Role Under Spotlight in Driving Digital Infrastructure Transformation in Indonesia

AI adoption and digital transformation are accelerating across Indonesia's sectors, highlighting the need for secure, resilient digital infrastructure that can leverage AI. ALE International (Alcatel-Lucent) hosted the ALE AI Forum 2026 in Jakarta to promote strategic AI adoption and a smart, data-driven infrastructure. The event featured discussions on AI, smart networks, and modern data centres, and showcased integrated solutions from Alcatel-Lucent and its technology partners.

Indonesian Elderly Hajj Pilgrim Missing in Mecca Found Dead

An Indonesian elderly Hajj pilgrim, Mr Muhammad Firdaus, who went missing in Mecca has been found dead, according to field reports and coordination with Saudi authorities. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah expressed deep condolences and said it will arrange a badal haji for the deceased. Officials urged heightened mutual care for elderly, disabled, and other vulnerable pilgrims to prevent similar incidents.

Lululemon Export Goods Theft Case Suspected to Have Occurred Before Entering the Airport's Cargo Area

The case of missing Lululemon export items at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport continues as police allege theft within the export cargo distribution chain. Industry input says the alleged substitution may have occurred before the goods entered the cargo area overseen by facility managers, prompting clarification from the Soekarno-Hatta Trade Facilities Committee. With 108 bags valued at over Rp1 billion unaccounted for, investigations involve customs, cargo handlers, and police.

Ombudsman RI Ethics Council to examine Hery Susanto next week

Indonesia's Ombudsman RI Ethics Council will question the suspended chair Hery Susanto on Monday (25 May) over allegations linked to a nickel-related corruption case. The inquiry will determine whether his conduct breaches ethics and whether the violation is categorised as serious, with attendance possible via his legal counsel if he declines to appear. The council has gathered information from Hery's family, the DPR, and the Selection Committee for Ombudsman members for 2026-2031, and its eventual conclusions will be put to a plenary session; decisions on Hery's status and the appointment of a new chair will involve the DPR, as public trust in the Ombudsman is in question.

Easy and Blessed: How to Prepare for Qurban with Shariah Mutual Funds

Bareksa outlines how Eid al-Adha motivates Muslims to prepare funds for Qurban, noting rising animal prices and the appeal of Shariah-compliant investments. It reviews the Syailendra Sharia Fixed Income Fund Class A, highlighting its exposure to corporate and government sukuk, a track record of around Rp3.3 trillion assets under management and about 7.07% annual net return, while stressing that returns can vary with market conditions. The article also advocates regular investments as a way to build funds gradually for Qurban.

10 Worth-It Sushi and Sashimi Spots in Bali, a Japanese Food Paradise for Culinary Lovers

A Bali-focused guide to eight sushi and sashimi restaurants, from casual favourites to fine-dining omakase, with opening hours, addresses, and standout dishes. The guide notes authenticity and dietary considerations, including a non-halal listing for Kunti 3.

Snake Zodiac Forecast for Saturday 23 May 2026: Career, Love, Finance and Health

The Snake zodiac forecast for Saturday 23 May 2026 emphasises contemplative energy and hidden potential, urging agile yet calm action in the Fire Horse year 2026. It also notes a business update that PT DSI Persero will fully take over export functions from January 2027, and offers guidance on career choices, finances, relationships and health.

PLN Sumbar continues efforts to restore electricity after system disruption

West Sumatra's PLN distribution unit is continuing repairs after a system fault caused outages in several areas since 18:44 WIB. By 22:50 WIB, about 27% of demand had been restored from hydroelectric and micro-hydroelectric sources, while steam-powered and geothermal plants remained to normalise. PLN is deploying technical teams across Sumbar and neighbouring provinces and has urged the public to remain calm, with updates to be shared via PLN Mobile and PLN 123.

Government Simplifies Indonesiaraya Fund Disbursement

The Indonesian Culture Ministry is simplifying the Indonesiaraya Fund disbursement and strengthening the mentoring system, involving the Balai and the Cultural Heritage Preservation Office to reduce bureaucracy while maintaining transparency and accountability. It also discusses LPDP cultural scholarships and governance improvements to make funding more accessible to cultural actors across Indonesia.

Vaccine and Booster Vitamin Services Now Include Insurance Protection

Cermati Protect teams up with Bumame to offer personal accident insurance for customers receiving vaccine and booster vitamin infusion services at Bumame clinics, provided by Oona Insurance Indonesia. The program is automated for Bumame customers and supports digital claims via the Cermati Protect portal, reflecting rising demand and growing consumer confidence in health services.

Nearly Sold His Kidney, Suspect in Land Certificate Forgery in West Jakarta Pursues Restorative Justice

Two suspects, ICS and SR, named in a land certificate forgery case in West Jakarta, are pursuing a restorative justice arrangement with their accuser. SR's health has deteriorated and dialysis has been advised but is not feasible; he was hospitalised just before his initial summons as a suspect at Polda Metro Jaya. They plan to seek protection from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK), with their lawyer arguing that the phrase 'dugaan mafia tanah' in the report was not uttered by the clients but by the legal team.

Scientists Discover Gut Microbes Believed to Protect Children from Autism and ADHD

Researchers report that certain gut bacteria may shield children from autism and ADHD, potentially via early epigenetic changes. By analysing cord blood DNA methylation in 571 infants and gut microbiome data from 969 babies up to 12 months, the study links specific bacteria and epigenetic patterns to neurodevelopmental outcomes at age three, while noting the complexity of such conditions.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Removes KBIHU Markers from Pilgrims’ Tents in Arafah

Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak said KBIHU’s unilateral tent allocations harmed prospective Hajj pilgrims. The Ministry removed placards and admonished the partner companies allowing them, citing past evaluations where similar conduct deprived many pilgrims of tent facilities.

Makanologie chronicles the journeys of 17 Indonesian chefs in the Netherlands

Indonesian historian Yulia Pattopang and Dutch culinary heritage expert Helena Smit document 55 years of Indonesian diaspora chefs in the Netherlands in Makanologie. The book traces migration, the struggle to sustain Indonesian restaurants, and how chefs adapted ingredients to Dutch markets. It highlights overlooked contributions and anticipates a growing Indonesian dining scene in the Netherlands.

BP Jamsostek Strengthens K3 Culture and Workplace Mental Health to Boost Worker Productivity

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan held a hybrid event in Jakarta to strengthen K3 and mental health at work, featuring Minister Yassierli and a UI psychology expert. The programme aims to deepen understanding of K3 implementation, psychosocial risk management, and psychological safety, with regional emphasis. The organisation's leadership emphasised that K3 is a strategic investment for competitiveness and resilience.

Soon to Be a State-Owned Enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia Set to Officially Operate

Indonesia plans to formalise PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) as a state-owned enterprise, with the change expected to be completed soon. The designation will be announced by the Minister for Investment and Downstream Development, who is also DSI’s CEO, at the Presidential Palace, with the official handover scheduled for next week in Jakarta. The government has already prepared DSI’s Wisma Danantara office and outlined leadership appointments as part of a broader drive to align policy with the needs of the real economy.

Samsung Electronics employees begin voting on pay deal

Samsung Electronics employees began voting on Friday 22 May to decide on a provisional 2026 pay deal amid tensions over a sharp gap in performance bonuses between divisions. The agreement includes a DS division-specific bonus fund, a 6.2% average wage rise, a housing loan programme, and a 40/60 bonus distribution between company-wide and division-based components; DX division workers are opposing the deal and a DX-focused union plans to hold its own vote after the largest union said it would exclude DX members from the official vote.

Guava Has Higher Vitamin C Content Than Oranges

Guava contains more vitamin C than oranges, with 100 g of orange providing about 53 mg of vitamin C compared with 228 mg in 100 g of guava. The article discusses the health benefits of vitamin C and notes that while guava is exceptionally rich, oranges remain a healthy option.

Satay seasoning becomes a unique adaptation of Indonesian cuisine in the Netherlands

Indonesian satay seasoning is being adapted in the Netherlands beyond a mere sauce, taking the form of a variety of light snacks, according to culinary storyteller Ade Putri Paramadita. She notes Dutch satay sauces lean acidic with vinegar and may include celery, with textures ranging from mayonnaise-like to panna cotta-like, and that the sauce is eaten with many dishes, even salads. Ade argues that while the adaptations reflect local geography and ingredients, there is pride in global audiences recognizing an Indonesian dish, and she stresses that authentic Indonesian cuisine should be experienced at its source.

US Secretary of State Draws Up Plan B If Iran Refuses to Open the Strait of Hormuz

US Senator Marco Rubio said in Helsingborg, Sweden, that there must be a Plan B if someone shoots at the Strait of Hormuz and that, at some point, ideally the strait would be opened. He added that the Plan B should include what to do if Iran refuses to open the strait, and noted that negotiations have seen some progress but may not reach the target. He also suggested NATO involvement was not clarified and claimed negotiators are dealing with 'difficult' people.

Downstream Investment Realisation Reaches Rp147.5 Trillion in Early 2026 – GoodStats Data

Total downstream processing investment reached Rp147.5 trillion in early 2026, led by the mineral sector with Rp98.3 trillion. Nickel dominated mineral investments at Rp41.5 trillion, followed by copper (Rp20.7 trillion), iron and steel (Rp17.0 trillion), and bauxite (Rp13.7 trillion). The agribusiness and forestry sector contributed Rp29.8 trillion, led by palm oil (Rp18.3 trillion) and timber (Rp7.0 trillion), while oil and gas downstream amounted to Rp17.7 trillion and fisheries and maritime to Rp1.7 trillion, underscoring the government's push for value-added expansion across key sectors.

To Prevent Monopoly, Purbaya to Appoint Supervisors at Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says officials from the Ministry of Finance and other ministries will be installed as supervisors at PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) following a proposal from the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs. The move aims to prevent the agency from becoming a market-dominant monopole and to strengthen oversight of commodity export transactions. DSI will operate in two phases, starting on 1 June 2026, functioning as an evaluator and intermediary between sellers and buyers of certain export commodities to curb under-invoicing and transfer pricing.

Traveloka-RWS collaboration addresses rising interest in travel to Singapore

Traveloka has partnered with Resorts World Sentosa to meet growing Indonesian demand for Singaporean experiences, leveraging AI-powered recommendations and RWS's premium offerings to convert interest into bookings. The collaboration aims to provide a seamless, integrated travel experience for Indonesian families, including exclusive benefits and personalised recommendations.

Indonesia pushes stronger workplace safety to cut accidents

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower plans a shift from a reactive compensation approach to a proactive, preventive OHS strategy, in partnership with BPJS Ketenagakerjaan. They cited 2025 figures of 319,224 work accident claims, including 9,834 fatalities and 4,133 cases of disability, with occupational diseases likely underreported. The government outlines three priorities—strengthening the national OHS system and claims governance, region-based promotive and preventive training, and ensuring companies measurably implement the OHS Management System (currently used by about 18,000 of 450,000 firms).

Outage Resolved as PLN Accelerates Restoration of the Power Grid in Sumatra Region

A widespread electricity outage across several regions of Sumatra has been resolved. PLN says the fault occurred on the 275 kV Muara Bungo–Sungai Rumbai transmission line in Jambi due to bad weather, and restoration is being accelerated across generation facilities. The company urged residents to monitor updates via the PLN Mobile app and other official channels, emphasising safe recovery.

Bogor Regency breaks MURI record for 100-hour non-stop public service

Bogor Regency has broken the Indonesian World Records Museum (MURI) record by delivering 100 hours of non-stop public services to mark Bogor’s 544th anniversary. The five-day initiative involved 31 service desks from regional agencies and vertical institutions and aims to extend licensing hours to help residents who work late in Jakarta and surrounding areas. The programme also underscored the importance of civil registration as the basis for access to government services, with plans to improve service quality.

Two Bangli Villages Become Pioneers of Disaster-Mitigation Training Programme

Two Bangli villages—Trunyan and Buahan—and two nearby primary schools will pilot PMI's disaster-mitigation training programme, aimed at creating disaster-resilient communities and schools. The project, planned to launch in July 2026, will form a volunteer corps of around 30 residents and deliver training across all hazards, with extra emphasis on self-rescue for pupils.

Pakistan's military chief departs for Iran: what will be discussed?

Pakistan's military chief, Marshal Asim Munir, has departed for an official visit to Tehran amid Tehran's weighing of Washington's latest proposal to end the Middle East conflict. Pakistan — Iran's eastern neighbour — has acted as a mediator, hosting direct talks between Tehran and Washington in April. Munir's trip follows visits by Pakistan's interior minister to Iran and comes as diplomacy continues despite a failed negotiation round and a fragile ceasefire.

BSI records Rp844 billion in KPP financing disbursed as of 21 May 2026

BSI has disbursed Rp844 billion in Kredit Program Perumahan (KPP) financing as of 21 May 2026, about 67% of its Rp1.2 trillion annual target. The bank aims to meet the target by optimising the national Islamic finance ecosystem and is partnering with community organisations, including Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, to expand access, including for teachers at pesantren. It also backs the Housing Financing Liquidity Facility (FLPP) for subsidised housing and is pursuing groundbreakings across several regions, with land preparations and discussions with the ATR/BPN ministry.

Saudi Arabia reviews hajj security readiness ahead of 1447H season

Saudi authorities in Makkah conducted an inspection as part of the annual Hajj readiness exercise for the 1447H season, underscoring comprehensive planning and advanced security measures. Lt. Gen. Mohammed Al-Bassami said the leadership has mobilised all resources to serve pilgrims, with high levels of coordination, field readiness and state-of-the-art technology to protect pilgrims in Makkah, the holy sites, Madinah and along the routes. He also warned against politicising Hajj and demonstrated security operations, vehicles and aviation support to show preparedness.

Strengthening Digital Services and Gold Investment Products Drive Pegadaian's Profits

Pegadaian posted a strong start to 2026, with net profit of Rp4.38 trillion in the first four months, up 87.2% from the same period last year. The growth was driven by an adaptive strategy, strengthened digital services, and the expansion of the gold ecosystem, including the Bulion Bank Emas. Rising assets and outstanding loans, a lower NPL ratio, robust profitability metrics, and ongoing operational efficiency underpin Pegadaian's outlook as it marks its 125th anniversary.

GMTD formally hands over seven PSU clusters to Makassar City Government

GMTD handed over Prasarana, Sarana, dan Utilitas assets for seven housing clusters to the Makassar City Government as part of a city-wide policy requiring developers to hand over PSU upfront. The move securing multi-trillion rupiah assets also gives the government full authority to improve basic services within housing areas, with asset valuation based on NJOP; the figure could be higher at market value.

MBG Management Transparency Expected to Spark Major Transformation for the Nation’s Younger Generation

Public policy experts say that, with proper governance and a holistic educational framework, MBG could drive major improvements for the nation’s youth within 10–20 years. Professor Cecep Darmawan of UPI stresses transparent, targeted management and cautions against letting criticism derail the programme, urging the spread of best practices from successful MBG sites to other regions. He also recommends prioritising those most in need if budgets are tight.

Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital: The spirit of sacrifice is relevant to bridging the digital divide

Deputy Minister Nezar Patria says the spirit of sacrifice and solidarity underpins efforts to bridge the digital divide amid rapid technological development. He argues that care, mutual aid, and collaboration must guide Indonesia's digital transformation and the cultivation of digital talent. He links the kurban tradition to human values and sees AI as a catalyst for national progress toward Indonesia Emas 2045.

Deputy Speaker of the MPR Urges Indonesian Nationals to Consider Risks Before Heading to Gaza

Indonesia's Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly, Eddy Soeparno, has urged Indonesian nationals to carefully weigh the risks before joining humanitarian missions to Gaza after nine Indonesians were detained by Israeli forces during the Global Sumud Flotilla. He welcomed their release and condemned Israel's actions as a breach of international law and human rights, warning that participation in such missions carries risks that could be fatal.

Congratulations! Winners of the KIM Mutual Fund Promo Prize Up to Rp1 Million — Bareksa.com

Bareksa has announced the winners of the KIM Indonesia mutual fund promo for January 2026. Prizes include mutual fund vouchers worth up to Rp1 million for purchases of at least Rp2.5 million, with winners notified by official Bareksa emails and prize credits posted to investors' Bareksa portfolios.

HKBP Finalises Preparations for 165th Anniversary at GBK

HKBP's 165th anniversary celebrations are set to be marked by a Thanksgiving service at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta on 18 October. The national committee and church leadership have finalised preparations, with attendance from all 32 HKBP districts and broadcasts planned on three national TV networks; the event may be attended by President Prabowo Subianto.

Indonesia seeks Human Rights Law revision to address digital rights

Indonesia is moving to revise its Human Rights Law to address digital rights, privacy and other evolving protections as the law’s two-decade-old framework is updated. The reform aims to extend accountability for human rights to both the private sector and government, and will proceed in stages with public participation under the National Legislation Program (Prolegnas). Some proposals also suggest unifying human rights bodies into a single national complaints mechanism to improve coordination.

Ministry of Tourism Backs Geopark Run Series, Allowing Participants to Run While Enjoying the Geopark Surroundings

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism backs the Geopark Run Series 2026–2027 as part of a push to enhance high-quality tourism and spur local economic growth around UNESCO Global Geoparks. The four-event circuit, spanning Ijen, Minangkabau, Ciletuh and Belitung, targets up to 10,000 participants and emphasises inclusive, sustainable sports tourism.

15 Gaza flotilla activists report sexual assault while detained by Israel

Fifteen activists from the Gaza flotilla have alleged sexual assault, including rape, while being detained by Israeli forces, with some hospitalised after their release. The flotilla organisers say abuses occurred as Israeli forces abducted at least 430 people from 50 ships in international waters to block aid to Gaza. Italian prosecutors are investigating possible crimes, including kidnapping and torture, as the case draws international attention.

Palestinian Ambassador: M Adimaja's photographic work conveys the essence of interfaith harmony

The Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia praised ANTARA photographer Muhammad Adimaja's Ursyalim for capturing Palestine's culture and social structures underpinning interfaith harmony. The exhibition at ANTARA Heritage Center in Jakarta opens with remarks on a culture of peace rooted in family and governance, and includes a 100-shot photo book; the public can view the show for free from 22–29 May 2026, with a discussion planned for 29 May.

Kemenimipas moves 40 inmates from South Sumatra to Nusakambangan

Forty high-risk inmates have been relocated from Lapas I Palembang to the Nusakambangan complex, reinforcing a broader crackdown on security breaches and contraband in Indonesian prisons. By May 2026, 88 inmates were transferred this month, and 2,648 high-risk inmates have been moved under the current minister's tenure.

Kemkomdigi unveils three pillars of Indonesia's AI policy

Indonesia's government is finalising two policy instruments—the national AI roadmap and the presidential regulation on AI ethics. It sets out three pillars to guide AI development: regulation that guarantees transparency, accountability, and safety in line with Indonesian values; world-class digital infrastructure; and inclusive digital talent development. The administration points to major investments from Microsoft, Nvidia and Amazon, a growing data-centre sector (185 centres with 274 MW capacity by 2026) and a digital talent gap of about three million as key drivers toward becoming Asia's largest digital economy.

MacBook Neo Officially Arrives in Indonesia: Fresh Colours, Priced from Rp10 million

Apple has officially introduced the MacBook Neo in Indonesia, rolling out via Digimap from 22 May in four new colours. The 13-inch model with 256 GB storage starts at Rp10,749,000, while the 512 GB variant is Rp12,999,000. The launch occurred at two Digimap venues in Jakarta and Bali, complemented by a limited-edition MacBook Sleeve by Digimap x Muklay for pre-orders.

51.8% of the Middle Class Split Expenditures According to Needs

A Katadata survey finds that 51.8% of Indonesia's middle class now habitually separate expenditures by need, boosting popular digital 'kantong' features in banking as a budgeting tool. Experts say digital wallets can empower financial management and MSME education, but discipline remains essential to maintain financial health.

Siloam Dhirga Surya Medan Becomes Indonesia's First Private Hospital to Attain World Stroke Certification

Medan's Siloam Hospitals Dhirga Surya Medan has earned the Advanced Stroke Centre certification from the World Stroke Organization, becoming Indonesia's first private hospital to receive the honour. The certification reflects a commitment to rapid, integrated stroke care and involved cross-specialty collaboration among neurology, radiology and neurosurgery. In North Sumatra, stroke prevalence is about 9.3%, underscoring the importance of swift treatment to improve patient outcomes.

Indonesia's Economic Resilience in 2026 and Measures to Anticipate Global Credit Risk

Indonesia's economy faces a tough test amid geopolitical uncertainty and dynamic global monetary policy. The analysis outlines macroeconomic indicators and national financing strategies to safeguard fiscal sovereignty, emphasising prudent policy mix, cooperation between monetary and fiscal authorities, and a push to strengthen domestic investment and green finance. A key industry forum, the Annual Indonesia Credit Spotlight, exemplifies efforts to mitigate credit risk while maintaining financial stability.

Rapidly Growing Digital Market Makes Transparent Cloud Infrastructure a Necessity

Indonesia's digital economy is growing rapidly, driving demand for modern, compliant cloud infrastructure. A strategic partnership between Arupa Cloud Nusantara and Civo will deliver a Kubernetes-based sovereign cloud platform in Indonesia, offering local support, regulatory compliance, and greater transparency. The collaboration is expected to speed application deployment and bolster the domestic cloud ecosystem.

Missing Indonesian Hajj candidate found dead in Mecca

An Indonesian Hajj candidate from the Jakarta-Pondok Gede embarkation group 27, Muhammad Firdaus, who had earlier been reported missing in Mecca, has been found dead. The Indonesian government says it will arrange a badal hajj for him through Hajj officers and urges heightened care for vulnerable pilgrims, with PPIH coordinating with Saudi authorities.

Intention for Sholat Hajat: Complete with doa recitations

Sholat Hajat is a Sunnah prayer performed by Muslims to seek Allah's help for a pressing matter. The article outlines its purpose, the two-raka‘at structure, and provides Arabic and Latin invocations with English translations, along with guidance on timing and proper conduct. It emphasises devotion and supplication as central to the practice.

Purbaya Says IHSG Will 'Soar' Next Week: Just Wait for the Moment

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said the IHSG is poised to strengthen again next week as national economic fundamentals improve, after hovering around the 5,900 level. He emphasised that stock prices depend on macro fundamentals and corporate profitability, and noted that a rebound is likely as the economy improves. The IHSG closed up 1.10% at 6,162.05, with energy and basic materials leading gains.

Ethics Council Urges ORI Selection Panel to Seek Information from the Attorney General's Office During Selection

The Ombudsman RI's Ethics Council has asked the Selection Panel to coordinate with the Attorney General's Office to trace the track records of candidates, particularly regarding corruption. The move follows concerns about an incumbent candidate and a nickel corruption case, with the Panel having previously sought information from other agencies; the AGO had not previously been approached due to the confidential nature of ongoing investigations.

North Bali’s Biggest Tourist Attraction Can Be Found Underwater

Umeanyar Village in North Bali is being developed as a marine tourism hub, anchored by the Purijati Dive Site known for the mimic octopus. The village, designated as a tourism village by a regent’s decree, is implementing conservation measures—boundary buoys, underwater structures, and anti-poison fishing—alongside new agrotourism and cultural experiences. Plans include integrated tour packages with the local Tourism Office to promote sustainable visitor experiences.

IPB Professor Emphasises Role of the Younger Generation in the Future of the Palm Oil Industry

Professor Yanto Santosa urged Indonesia’s youth to cultivate objective, science-based perspectives on the palm oil industry, emphasising critical thinking and data literacy as essential to its future. He warned that digital information can distort issues and called for balanced, evidence-based narratives that acknowledge the sector’s social and economic importance for millions of workers and smallholders. His views were shared at GenSawit 2026 in Denpasar, organised by BPDP in collaboration with Udayana University, with speakers from IPB and Apkasindo and about 350 students attending.

Saudi Interior Minister reviews readiness of security forces for Hajj

Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Interior and Head of the Hajj Supreme Committee, reviews the operational readiness of the Hajj security forces for the 1447 AH season. The review underscores Saudi leadership's commitment to crowd management and large-scale operation planning, with advanced technology and integrated command and control.

MidOcean Energy, Owned by EIG, Announces $120 Million Investment From The Arab Energy Fund as Part of Equity Financing

MidOcean Energy, an LNG company established and managed by EIG, has disclosed a $120 million equity investment from The Arab Energy Fund as part of a broader equity raise targeting up to $2 billion. The deal reinforces MidOcean’s diversified, long‑dated LNG strategy and signals continued momentum from major energy investors, with executives emphasising potential collaboration on energy infrastructure in the Middle East.

Bogor Police Uncover Modus Operandi in Subsidised Fuel Misuse, Vehicle Modification and Number Plate Swapping

The Bogor Police have uncovered a case of subsidised fuel and LPG misuse costing the state Rp12.5 billion. The suspects used modified vehicles and plate-swapping to repeatedly purchase subsidised fuel and resell it at non-subsidised prices, with SPBU staff implicated. A Fortuner was modified to carry up to 700 litres of fuel, and the defendants face charges under Oil and Gas and Mineral and Coal Mining laws, with penalties of up to six years’ imprisonment and substantial fines.

No Payslips, Informal Workers Can Still Access Mortgages

Rent-to-Own (RTO) schemes are proposed as a bridge for informal workers to access mortgage financing, with incubation periods and digital-footprint-based credit scoring under consideration. Industry voices call for government support and risk-sharing to unlock banking access for non-fixed income groups, while data shows informal workers make up a large share of Indonesia’s workforce.

Self-Confidence and Consistency: The Key to Becoming an Entrepreneur

A profile of Cahaya Manthovani, a young leader shaping Indonesia's events industry through Navaswara Bhuwana Kencana, integrating social and cultural empowerment. The piece highlights her inclusivity work for people with disabilities, notable awards, and emphasis on entrepreneurial persistence, while noting broader calls for government mobilisation to broaden participation.

EIG’s MidOcean Energy Announces $120m Investment from The Arab Energy Fund as Part of Equity Raise

The Arab Energy Fund has committed $120 million to MidOcean Energy as part of an ongoing equity raise led by EIG, with a target of up to $2 billion from new investors. The deal signals strong demand for MidOcean's diversified LNG strategy and reinforces potential collaboration opportunities across energy infrastructure in the Middle East. Executives said the investment supports a diversified LNG portfolio, strengthens the investor base, and highlights energy security and sustainability as key priorities.

Bali High Season Arrives: Here’s What Tourists Need To Know

Bali’s peak travel period is underway, with hotels in Bali reporting occupancy around 60-70% in May and the industry bracing for a busy season ahead. The Bali airport is expected to welcome large numbers of international arrivals, while officials say the dollar’s strength has not yet affected bookings; authorities will monitor global conditions for potential impacts, including the Tourism Tax Levy. Tourists are advised to secure travel insurance and stay updated on guidelines.

Government prioritizes dams, bridges in Sumatra post-disaster recovery

Indonesia's Public Works Ministry is prioritising post-disaster reconstruction in Aceh and neighbouring Sumatra by fast-tracking dam construction and permanent bridges to prevent further floods and maintain inter-provincial connectivity. Officials say river widening and debris from landslides require redesigned infrastructure, and recovery plans also include clearing mud from rice fields to protect food self-sufficiency targets for 2026.

Indonesia Strengthens Climate Collaboration and Carbon Market at Ecosperity Week 2026 and GenZero Climate Summit 2026

Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry reaffirms its commitment to high-integrity carbon markets and international collaboration at Ecosperity Week 2026 and the GenZero Climate Summit in Singapore. The dispatch outlines regulatory steps, including Ministerial Regulation No. 6 of 2026 to streamline forestry carbon trading, and discusses REDD+ developments, Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, CORSIA, and sovereign and jurisdictional market approaches to boost investor confidence.

GAC teams up with Toluca FC, inspired by a shared vision to achieve excellence

GAC has announced a two-year strategic partnership with Toluca FC, a legendary Mexican football club, as part of its global sports marketing push ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The collaboration aims to deepen GAC's footprint in the Americas and connect with Mexican fans through activations and exclusive experiences.

Understanding Global Accessibility Awareness Day: Why It Matters for Indonesia?

GAAD, observed on the third Thursday of May, highlights digital accessibility and the needs of people with disabilities. In Indonesia, laws and public services increasingly rely on digital platforms, underscoring the importance of inclusive design for equal access to information and opportunities.

Tightening of Subsidised Housing Verification

BP Tapera has tightened registration and verification for subsidised housing to curb data manipulation, fictitious properties, and misallocation of housing finance, requiring applicants to register themselves and employing geotagging and photographic verification. The changes shift primary loan risk to banks and enable enforcement action against developers or recipients.

BPJS TK - Telkomsel Perkuat Coverage Pekerja Informal melalui Jamsostek Poin

Telkomsel and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan have signed a cooperation agreement and launched Jamsostek Poin, integrating data packages with social protection for informal workers in Indonesia. The initiative, accessible through MyTelkomsel, aims to broaden coverage for drivers, couriers, and micro-entrepreneurs who traditionally lack social security, by simplifying registration and access to benefits.

Blockchain.com Announces Confidential Submission of Draft Registration Statement for Form S-1 in Connection with Planned Initial Public Offering

Blockchain.com Group Holdings, Inc. has confidentially filed a draft Form S-1 registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission for its planned IPO of Class A common stock. The number of shares and the price range have not yet been determined, and the offering is contingent on market conditions and SEC review; the press release notes that it is not an offer and that all securities will be offered only through a prospectus under the Securities Act of 1933.

OSS in Siantar Facing Problems, Cooperatives, MSMEs and Trade Office Disrupted

The Online Single Submission (OSS) system is experiencing errors in Siantar, hindering the Dinas Koperasi UMKM dan Perdagangan Kota Pematangsiantar from uploading the deficiency materials for the action plan. A new supervising account has been appointed after concerns about the previous one’s effectiveness. If the missing action-plan materials are uploaded, the DPM PTSP plans to revoke KBLI 46696 for CV Agam Group and issue notices to Satpol PP and the Cooperatives, MSMEs and Trade Office.

Expert: Digitisation of financial services to help MSMEs

Experts argue that digitalisation of financial services, including the 'pockets' feature, improves real-time financial visibility and can aid MSMEs. A Katadata KIMCI survey found 51.8% of the middle class separate spending by need, while 86% are aware of pockets and 9 in 10 users say it improves financial health; widespread bank adoption shows the feature's traction. Researchers say digital banks act as enablers, transforming traditional 'envelope' budgeting into a digital practice.

Army Chief of Staff Supports Renewable-Energy-Based Waste Management in Bali

The Indonesian Army Chief of Staff says the Army is ready to assist Bali’s waste management project using pyrolysis technology, aiming to begin operations by 2027 and without government subsidies. The plan requires land, off-take guarantees for the resulting fuel, and a 30-year collaboration, with Bali emphasising transparent, community-inclusive implementation to curb waste and strengthen energy resilience.

Prices of Staple Goods at Pasar Baru Bekasi Rise, Disperindag: Still Within Normal Range

The Bekasi City Department of Trade and Industry says price rises for several staples at Pasar Baru are still within a normal range, despite trader complaints. Officials cite the city CPI at 11.76 and potential distribution delays, while noting that government intervention may occur if prices rise sharply; the city is also running a Low-Cost Food Movement to sell staples below market prices. Traders report subdued trade, but an official says overall prices and stocks remain controlled and safe.

Reliability of Logistics Services Becomes a Key Factor in Maintaining Customer Supply Chains

The article reports the launch of Alfa Trans Tiga by PT Alfa Trans Raya, a subsidiary of CKB Logistics, as part of a strategic upgrade to strengthen maritime logistics capacity. The vessel is designed to handle containers and hazardous cargo, boosting connectivity and reliability across Indonesia’s strategic regions, with maiden voyages slated for mid-2026.

Kodam Jaya joins the hunt for begal in Jakarta, deploying a combat battalion

The Indonesian National Armed Forces, via Kodam Jaya, have joined police efforts to curb begal in Jakarta and its surroundings, deploying a combat battalion to support patrols. Over the past three weeks, 173 street-crime suspects have been arrested; some were shot in the leg during arrests. A 24-hour Begal Hunting Team has been formed to patrol crime hotspots, with police also collaborating with social media activists to document and act on incidents.

Hisense Launches UR8 with More Natural and Realistic Colours, Bringing Next-Generation RGB MiniLED Technology to More Homes

Hisense has launched the UR8 RGB MiniLED TV series, featuring Chromagic optical technology, 100% BT.2020 colour gamut, Hi-View AI Engine RGB, Native 180Hz Game Mode, and a Devialet-enhanced 2.1.2 surround system. The move underscores Hisense's push into RGB MiniLED and aims to broaden access to premium home entertainment globally.

Indonesia targets June completion for 88 Sekolah Rakyat sites

Indonesia targets the June completion of 88 of 93 Sekolah Rakyat sites, with progress at about 59% as of May 21. Phase II focuses on permanent buildings, but some contracts extend into July–October, delaying openings for the new academic year. Officials say quality will not be compromised and link the programme to poverty reduction and the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Indonesian Hajj pilgrim missing since 15 May found dead; Ministry prepares Badal Hajj

An Indonesian Hajj pilgrim, Mohamad Firdaus Akhlan (72), who had been missing since 15 May 2026 in Mecca, has been found deceased. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said a badal Hajj programme will be prepared to be carried out by designated officials, and vowed heightened pilgrim safety measures, including 24-hour standby and guidance to look after fellow pilgrims, especially the elderly. The incident comes as Hajj operations, including Armuzna arrangements and ADAHI, continue toward the peak.

BYD invites the public to experience NEV technology at GBK until Sunday

BYD's Tech Culture Fest 2026 runs at the GBK Senayan complex in Jakarta through Sunday, 24 May 2026, offering interactive experiences of new energy vehicle technology. The event showcases more than 40 BYD and DENZA vehicles across interactive zones, test drives, and attractions such as the Monster Track Off-Road Arena, alongside discussions on electrification and sustainable mobility.

Collagen Hair Dryer: Innovative Japanese Hair-Styling and Drying Technology

Tescom, a premium Japanese brand active in Indonesia since 2016, has launched the Tescom Platinum Collagen BLDC Hair Dryer, claimed to be the world’s first and only BLDC dryer to combine Platinum Collagen technology with Japanese Ionic Technology. The device features a Collagen Nozzle to emit collagen essence during drying, helping to maintain moisture and protect the hair cuticle, while delivering fast drying at around 1000 watts and offering multiple variants. The move epitomises a broader trend towards hair wellness and emphasises Tescom’s philosophy of 'Smooth Shiny, No Heat Damage Styling Tools'.

AGIBOT and ASIX Showcase Advanced Humanoid Robots at Jakarta Cultural Event

AGIBOT, in partnership with ASIX, showcased its most advanced humanoid robot at a cultural event in Jakarta, performing duties such as guiding the programme, writing calligraphy, presenting dances, and engaging with visitors. The warmly received demonstration underlined the potential of embodied AI to enrich culture and entertainment while pointing to broader productivity applications in Indonesia. The event also marks a strategic expansion for AGIBOT in Indonesia, with plans to explore robotics for production, logistics, and customer-facing services.

Rosan says DSI to be based at the Danantara complex, inauguration planned for next week

Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) will be based in the Danantara Building and inaugurated next week as a state-owned enterprise. Luke Thomas Mahony has been named CEO, cited for his mineral trading experience and Indonesian language ability. DSI will operate in two phases from 1 June 2026 to act as an intermediary for selected export commodities, amid government moves to designate a single state-owned exporter for palm oil, coal and ferro alloys.

Missing in Mecca, Jakarta-based Elderly Hajj Pilgrim Found Dead

An elderly Jakarta-based Hajj pilgrim, Muhammad Firdaus, 72, who had been missing in Mecca, has been found dead. The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said authorities will arrange a badal haji for him and urged greater care for vulnerable pilgrims; the investigation notes he left the hotel without Nusuk, ID or a mobile phone and appeared disoriented. The tragedy highlights ongoing concerns for the safety and welfare of pilgrims during the Hajj season.

Pramono Anung Becomes Vice-Chair of C40 Cities, Jakarta to Gain Strategic Benefits

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has been elected vice-chair of the Steering Committee of C40 Cities, a network of nearly 100 major cities. He says the role will bolster Jakarta's status as a global city and unlock access to technical and international funding, while boosting green investment in transport, renewable energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure.

Committee VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives highlights delays in completing several strategic industrial projects

Parliamentary Commission VII has urged the government to accelerate the completion of several ongoing downstream processing projects so their benefits to the national economy are felt nationwide. In a public hearing with the Directorate General of Mineral and Coal, lawmakers called for detailed progress updates and faster production readiness, while officials noted some facilities are already operating as part of the national downstreaming programme and mineral sector revenues rose in early 2026.

Foreign Woman Kneels in Front of Car in Nusa Dua, Suspected Plea for Help

Video footage from a bus driver shows a foreign woman kneeling in front of a white car on Jalan Tugu Ngurah Rai, Nusa Dua, on the night of 21 May 2026. A man then approaches and drags her to the roadside while she protests, prompting online speculation about possible danger or abuse; police have not yet issued an official statement.

Social Issues Impede Geothermal Investment in Indonesia

Social opposition and regulatory hurdles are hampering geothermal investment in Indonesia, despite substantial untapped potential. A senior official argues that proactive public outreach is essential to address fears about earthquakes and mudflows and to improve land-use and permitting processes. Indonesia's geothermal capacity is 24 GW, but only 2.7 GW is currently utilised, and expanding it could underpin the national electricity system and support the 2060 net zero target.

Tugu Insurance Q1 2026 Profit Surges; TUGU Shares Still Cheap - PDI Perjuangan

PT Asuransi Tugu Pratama Indonesia Tbk (TUGU) posted first-quarter 2026 total insurance service revenue of Rp2.6 trillion, up 5.96% year-on-year. Underwriting income rose to Rp461 billion, while investment income fell 8.8% amid market volatility. Net profit attributable to owners reached Rp266 billion, about 26% of the full-year target of Rp1.08 trillion, supported by a strong capital base (RBC 410.9% in 2025) and an AM Best rating of A- (Excellent).

Keeping a Friendship: Sheila Dara and Fita Anggriani

A long-standing friendship between actress Sheila Dara and Fita Anggriani, formed in 2012, thrives on low-key interactions and mutual support. They reflect on their bond and fashion sensibilities as Uniqlo launches a collaboration with Cecilie Bahnsen, Shapes of Poetry, including a children’s line, due to be available from 27 May 2026 in Indonesia.

Binggrae Participates in THAIFEX 2026, Asia's Largest Food and Beverage Industry Exhibition

Binggrae, the South Korean food company, is taking part in THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2026 in Bangkok, aiming to accelerate penetration in Southeast Asia and expand its global distribution. The company highlights flagship products such as Banana Flavoured Milk, Yoplait yoghurt, and Melona, while planning new variants and emphasising halal-certified exports to Muslim-majority markets.

Power outage in Sumatra, PLN apologises—cites transmission disruption

PLN has apologised for a power disruption affecting parts of Sumatra on 22 May 2026, caused by a fault on the 275 kV Muara Bungo–Sungai Rumbai transmission line in Jambi Province. PLN says the fault has been addressed and restoration is underway, with authorities urging the public to monitor updates via PLN Mobile and official channels.

GAAD 2026: SLBN Cicendo Bandung Students Equipped with Photography Skills

Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2026 at SLBN Cicendo in Bandung highlighted inclusive education and the value of practical skills for students with disabilities. Through a collaboration between the Ascott Group, Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR), and the school, the students were trained in photography to bolster their employability. Bandung's Mayor, Muhammad Farhan, stressed that practical skills are crucial alongside formal education in a competitive economy.

Whiff of Alleged Bekasi Ambulance Corruption as KPK Takes Action

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) said it will follow up on a report by the Indonesian Students Association (AMI) concerning alleged corruption in the procurement of ambulances and hearses within Bekasi City Health Office in West Java. The agency emphasised that the report is confidential and updates will be provided only to the reporting party, while ensuring the case proceeds through internal stages. The affair underscores ongoing concerns about transparency in public procurement and the handling of whistleblower information by law enforcement.

BRI Consumer Expo 2026 to Run for Three Days at JICC, Visitors Treated to Numerous Promotions

BRI's Consumer Expo 2026 will run for three days at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC) from 22 to 24 May 2026, offering a one-stop financial and lifestyle expo. The event showcases BRI Group products including BRI Life, BRI Insurance, and BRI Finance, and features dozens of developers and automotive brands, signaling a broad expansion of BRI's consumer financing ecosystem to major Indonesian cities.

Business Associations Welcome the Establishment of DSI

Business associations at home and abroad welcomed the establishment of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI). Ministers and the president said the associations support the policy and are prepared to cooperate, emphasising the need for transparency and clarity in the new body’s governance.

UPN Veteran Jakarta Students Support Health Recovery for Aceh Tamiang Residents

Twenty-five students and four lecturers from UPN Veteran Jakarta were deployed to three villages in Manyak Payed to support health recovery after a flood, providing screenings, free treatment, and home visits. The mission, under Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat (PKM) and Kuliah Kerja Nyata Tematik Kemanusiaan (KKN Tematik Kemanusiaan), involved cooperation with regional universities and state bodies, and continued with additional activities in Desa Simpang Opak with BPH Migas and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

This Cement Company Will Pay Rp46,800 per Lot in Cash Dividends; Check the Payment Date!

Indocement Tunggal Prakasa (INTP) has approved a cash dividend of Rp1.53 trillion for 2025, amounting to Rp468 per share and Rp46,800 per lot. The stock yielded about 9.73% at the 21 May 2026 price, with 2025 net profit of Rp2.2 trillion; the AGM also approved board changes and a new buyback programme of up to Rp750 billion for 2026-2027.

Metro Police Explain Higher Mugging Rates in West Jakarta Than in Other Areas

The Metro Jaya Police’s General Criminal Investigation Directorate says West Jakarta (Jakbar) records the highest mugging cases in the capital, citing factors such as social heterogeneity and high resident activity. It notes that online amplification of incidents on social media skews public perception, while comparing Jakbar with South Jakarta where crime is lower due to dynamic business activity and residential movement.

Malaysia requires social media users to upload documents for age verification

Malaysia will require social media users to upload government-issued documents to verify their age, effective 1 June 2026, under the 2025 Cyber Security Act's Child Protection and Risk Mitigation Guidelines. The MCMC has not yet specified the exact technology for verification and will allow a grace period for platforms such as TikTok, Facebook and Instagram; non-compliant accounts may be closed. The move follows a policy that under-16s are not allowed to hold accounts on platforms with over eight million users in Malaysia, aimed at protecting children from online harms, including fraud.

LEO satellite cited as alternative to overcome 3T connectivity blank spots

Indonesia is exploring Low Earth Orbit satellites to address connectivity gaps in 3T regions, while noting limitations such as cloud cover and latency. Officials say LEO has been piloted in disaster-hit areas with successful basic communications and video calls, and emphasise a combined approach using fibre, BTS and satellite technology to achieve nationwide connectivity.

DJP and AmCham Discuss Investment Climate and Tax Governance - IKPI

Indonesia's tax chief and AmCham Indonesia discussed the direction of tax policy, modernising the tax system, and steps to strengthen regulatory certainty for businesses, while preserving a conducive investment climate. The meeting underscored the importance of ongoing government–business dialogue to implement effective policies and maintain investor confidence.

KuCoin Launches Earn-and-Loan Product to Maximise Crypto Asset Efficiency

KuCoin has launched Crypto Loan, the first product to combine Earn and Loan in a single system, enabling eligible users in select regions to access liquidity without selling assets while still earning Hold to Earn on collateral. The 'one-position' design simplifies monitoring of collateral, loan exposure and LTV, with hourly-dynamic interest and three collateral-ratio levels, reflecting KuCoin's focus on user-centric, capital-efficient digital asset solutions.

KAI Bandung urges passengers not to wear football club insignia linked to Persib match

KAI Daop 2 Bandung has urged passengers not to wear football club insignia while at stations or on trains ahead of Persib Bandung's final against Persijap Jepara at GBLA on 23–24 May 2026. The move is a preventive measure to minimise tensions in public transport and ensure comfortable travel, while rail operations remain on schedule as authorities prepare for potential traffic disruption around GBLA.

Happy Asmara and Ari Lasso Close JFF 2026 Day One

Day one of JFF 2026 closed with a high-energy double bill from Happy Asmara and veteran Ari Lasso, fusing nostalgia with contemporary hits as crowds danced at Jogja Expo Center. The festival also featured business talks, educational classes and a career corner, alongside a comedy show, with more talks and entertainment scheduled for day two.

Firdaus, a Jakarta-based Hajj pilgrim who went missing in Mecca, found dead

Jakarta-based Hajj pilgrim Mohamad Firdaus, aged 72, who disappeared in Mecca, has been found dead. The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed the death and said the government will fulfil the deceased's rights through a Hajj substitute (badal haji). Indonesian authorities expressed condolences and urged care for fellow pilgrims, especially the elderly, women and disabled.

Ahead of Persib vs Persijap, Traffic Congestion Expected During Championship Celebrations in Bandung

Bandung city authorities are coordinating traffic and security for the decisive Liga 1 Indonesia clash between Persib Bandung and Persijap Jepara. A temporary pedestrian overpass on Jalan Asia Afrika will serve as the celebration hub if Persib clinches the title, with strict access controls. Police and city officials warn of potential congestion and urge fans to travel early and celebrate responsibly.

Two Aceh Besar SPPD corruption defendants sentenced to two years' imprisonment

A panel of judges in Banda Aceh's Corruption Court sentenced two officials of the Aceh Besar District Inspektorat to two years in prison for SPPD fraud, with Rp50 million fines each. The defendants, Zia Ul Azmi and Jony Marwan, had already returned portions of the embezzled funds totaling Rp256.8 million and Rp145.6 million, respectively. The sentence is lighter than the prosecutors' original demand.

KPK Says e-Catalogue Procurement Needs Evaluation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) says that procurement of goods and services via the e-Catalogue, run by the Government Goods/Services Procurement Policy Agency (LKPP), should be evaluated due to potential corruption loopholes. The KPK cites a case in Tulungagung involving a suspended regent and notes possible collusion between public officials and private firms. It calls for improvements to regulations and system governance to curb corruption in procurement.

Attorney General's Office Urged to Uncover Officials Allegedly Shielding Mining Corruption in West Kalimantan

MAKI urges a full investigation into all those involved in a West Kalimantan mining corruption case, including officials accused of shielding illegal activity. The case concerns alleged misuse of mining licences by PT Quality Success Sejahtera and mining outside licensed areas, with new suspects connected to port authorities and calls for potential money-laundering provisions to be applied.

VP Gibran pushes for seaweed farming modernization in Rote Ndao

During a visit to salt and seaweed facilities in Rote Ndao, Vice President Gibran highlighted the vast but underutilised potential of seaweed farming and urged modernization across the production chain, from superior seedlings and equipment to post-harvest facilities such as drying systems, warehouses, sorting and packaging. He linked the push to President Prabowo Subianto’s directives to strengthen food security and to downstream regional commodities to boost value and welfare for coastal communities, including farmers and fishermen. Gibran also called on local governments to improve data collection and administration to ensure equitable, targeted aid and accelerated development of the seaweed sector.

HNW lauds the Foreign Ministry’s diplomacy in the release of Indonesian activists from Israel

Deputy Speaker Hidayat Nur Wahid praised the Indonesian Foreign Ministry’s swift diplomacy that helped secure the release of nine Indonesians (four of whom are journalists) among 428 activists freed from 45 countries. He credited international pressure and effective coordination with partners such as Turkey, Egypt and Jordan, and urged continued sanctions on Israel to prevent future abductions. He also emphasised Indonesia’s role as Chair of the UN Human Rights Council and called for ongoing legal action to uphold human rights.

Ahead of Persib vs Persijap, PT KAI Daop 2 Bandung Bans Supporter Attire on Trains

PT KAI Daop 2 Bandung bans rail passengers from wearing football club attire ahead of Persib Bandung's decisive clash with Persijap Jepara. The measure aims to prevent fan clashes and is accompanied by warnings about potential traffic congestion, with travel advice for early arrival. The move highlights the intersection of matchday security and public transport management in West Java.

Geopark Run Series: a sports tourism event and geopark promotion

Geopark Run Series 2026-2027 is framed as a sport-based tourism initiative designed to boost local economies by drawing participants and visitors to four Indonesian geoparks. The organisers and regional leaders emphasise community involvement, sustainable tourism, and improved regional branding through the event.

Connecting Young Families with Affordable Housing

Citra Maja City has launched new 1- and 2-bedroom homes priced from around Rp110 million and Rp185 million, respectively, targeting young families and urban buyers. The 2,000-hectare township emphasises a transport-friendly location near Maja Station and a wide range of amenities, complemented by CSR activities such as support for the Seba Baduy ritual.

Women MPs' Participation in Decision-Making Required for a Healthy Democracy

The Indonesian Parliament Women's Caucus (KPPRI) has organised the KPPRI 2026 forum as a national dialogue space to strengthen the role of women in parliament in driving inclusive, gender-responsive policy transformation. The theme stresses that representation should translate into concrete policies that benefit the people, especially women, children, families and vulnerable groups, amid global challenges. KPPRI Secretary General Sarifah Ainun Jariyah emphasises women's strategic role in peacebuilding, social cohesion and bringing a humanitarian perspective to public policy, and notes MPs have a responsibility to ensure legislative, oversight, budgeting and diplomatic functions support social justice.

Power outage hits Riau as residents complain children cannot study ahead of exams

Power outages across parts of Sumatra, including Riau, disrupted study for students preparing for exams in Pekanbaru. A parent lamented that their child could not study after the outage around 18:50 WIB, with attempts to use emergency lighting and mobile phone illumination limited. Other residents said schools and businesses were affected by the outage amid limited generator availability ahead of the final exam day.

Begal Pursuit Team Captures 173 Street-Robbery Suspects in May 2026

Jakarta's Begal Pursuit Task Force announced that 173 street-crime suspects were arrested across 127 police reports in May 2026, with 870 crime scenes uncovered. The operation yielded seizures including mobile phones, motorcycles, firearms and bladed weapons, and suspects were charged under multiple articles of the Indonesian Penal Code. The investigation continues, with 413 cases still unsolved.

Coordination and Synchronisation, and Technical Guidance on Implementing OSS Risk-Based Approach (RBA) for Business Licensing Oversight

A Kalimantan Tengah coordination meeting, led by Yuas Elko, opened in Palangka Raya on 29 August 2022 to boost investment and improve reporting of investment realisation via the LKPM online. The event gathered 40 participants from DPMPTSP across the province for coordination and 120 attendees for OSS RBA training, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight of business licensing under the OSS framework.

President Prabowo Sends 18 Sacrificial Cattle to Southeast Sulawesi for Eid al-Adha 2026

President Prabowo Subianto is distributing 18 sacrificial cattle to Southeast Sulawesi ahead of Eid al-Adha 1447 Hijriah / 2026, with the animals allocated to every district and city. The Sulawesi Tenggara governor says the move aims to ensure broad coverage of the festival’s festivities, with verification ongoing to identify distribution points.

Public Works Minister Slams Officials Over Sekolah Rakyat Project, Which Is Half-Stalled

The Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has criticised officials within his ministry suspected of misconduct in the Sekolah Rakyat project, which is described as being half-stalled. Progress as of 20 May 2026 was about 58-59%, short of the target to be ready for the July 2026 academic year, with the minister warning of personnel changes and affirming the government's priority programmes will proceed.

Bogor Police Bust Seven Oil, Gas and Mineral Cases, 15 Suspects Arrested

Bogor Police announced the seizure of seven criminal cases involving oil and gas (migas) and minerals and coal (minerba) across Bogor Regency, with 15 suspects named. The operation uncovered subsidised fuel abuse, gas substitution schemes, and illegal gold mining, with significant sums at stake and evidence including gas cylinders, vehicles, and refining chemicals. Authorities say the suspects face penalties under Indonesia's Oil and Gas and Mineral and Coal Mining laws, with potential prison terms and fines.

GRIB Jaya Responds After Hercules Is Reported to Police by Ahmad Bahar's Daughter Over Alleged Detention

GRIB Jaya has responded after its figure Hercules was reported to police by Ilma Sani Fitriana, the daughter of writer Ahmad Bahar, over alleged detention. The organisation says the case will be resolved in court, disputing the allegations as baseless and accusing Bahar and Ilma of trying to sway public opinion. The police report, filed in May 2026, involves alleged violent coercion and data tampering connected to messages sent to Hercules.

SleekFlow expands AI to boost customer response and analyse consumer behaviour.

SleekFlow broadens its AI capabilities to speed up customer responses and analyse consumer behaviour, reflecting growing demand for instant service in digital transactions. The company plans CX Intelligence to convert conversational data into operational insights, with case studies showing improved lead qualification and booking rates.

United Arab Emirates, together with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, urge Trump not to start a war

The United Arab Emirates, backed by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, urge US President Donald Trump to pursue diplomatic channels with Iran to avoid a broader Gulf economic crisis. The move signals a shift for Abu Dhabi away from hawkish stances and hinges on mediation via Pakistan, with ongoing warnings that military conflict would fail to achieve long-term aims and threaten energy security.

Tearful remorse from model who spread hoax claiming she was mugged

Police concluded that AJDV did not become a victim of a mugging; the model cried after questioning at Polda Metro Jaya. The investigation found she disseminated the hoax for 'iseng'—to glorify viral crime stories—and there was no evidence of injuries from a criminal act. Authorities urged cautious social media use and offered psychological support.

Rosan says Luke Thomas Mahony has a strong track record, hence appointed as President Director of DSI - BCA Sekuritas

Rosan Roeslani announced the appointment of Luke Thomas Mahony as President Director of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI), citing his strong track record in minerals, trading and leadership of mineral-related firms. The minister noted Luke’s multinational experience, including Vale Indonesia, and said his Indonesian language skills and ties were a plus. Luke, an Australian national, has served as SEVP, Business Performance & Optimization at Danantara Indonesia since September 2025.

Cry of Tempeh and Tofu Traders in West Jakarta, Trapped by Soaring Prices of Imported Soybeans and Plastic

Global economic volatility and a weakening rupiah have directly hit tempeh producers at Kopti Semanan in West Jakarta as soy prices rise. Traders shrink product sizes to avoid price increases, with soybean costs approaching Rp 11,000 per kilogram due to imported raw materials and higher import costs driven by the dollar, amid broader geopolitical tensions.

Jakarta Accelerates Use of Electric Buses, Targets 10,000 TransJakarta Electric Buses by 2030

Jakarta plans to deploy 10,000 TransJakarta electric buses by 2030, ramping up by about 2,000 a year. The programme, backed by private sector partnerships, aims to cut emissions and improve efficiency and rider comfort as part of a broader shift to a low-emission public transport system.

Pegadaian Transformation Reshapes Indonesian Investment Behaviour

Pegadaian is spearheading a national financial transformation by building a comprehensive gold ecosystem, anchored by Bank Emas. By April 2026, its gold ecosystem managed around 145 tonnes of assets, with Tabungan Emas surpassing 20 tonnes and a value over Rp51 trillion, and Cicilan Emas up 152.79% YoY to Rp13.85 trillion. The push—supported by the government’s Asta Cita agenda and its Tring! app—aims to boost financial inclusion and elevate investment literacy in Indonesia.

BI Educates on CBP Rupiah and PeKA to Hundreds of Mothers in Tegal

Bank Indonesia's Tegal branch led an educational outreach to hundreds of mothers on CBP Rupiah and Pelindungan Konsumen (PeKA), emphasising prudent financial behaviour and recognition of currency to strengthen household resilience and help contain inflation. The event highlighted the pivotal role of women in household finance and included guidance on local products and safeguarding against digital scams.

Platform to attract Indonesian developers to host APAC Stellar Hackathon

Rise In, a web3 education and acceleration platform, in partnership with the Stellar Development Foundation, is launching the APAC Stellar Hackathon to recruit developers, startup founders and builders from Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia to create digital financial solutions for broad public use. The programme aims to strengthen the APAC digital-talent ecosystem and convert hackathon projects into ongoing solutions, with a focus on Southeast Asia amid growing digital-asset regulation and fintech adoption. The event runs online with workshops and campus activations, culminating in an in-person final across three countries, with prizes up to USD 60,000 and mentorship from the Stellar ecosystem.

First Edamame Harvest Strengthens Integrated Village Farming Model

Yayasan Indonesia Setara and partners achieved the first edamame harvest on 19 May 2026, marking the initial milestone of an integrated farming programme aimed at boosting village livelihoods. The project, involving Wiguna Farm, Agribusiness and Technology Park (ATP) IPB as off-taker, Gebrakan Anak Negeri (GAN) and BSI Maslahat, will provide seeds, fertilisers, training and market access, with proceeds reinvested to expand land and reach more farmers.

Jasa Raharja Highlights Speed of Traffic Accident Victim Handling, Mentions Golden Period

Jasa Raharja attended the Police Dokkes Technical Working Meeting for 2026 to strengthen cross-sector cooperation in improving treatment for traffic accident victims. The event emphasised digital health services and the JR Care system to speed up hospital verification and treatment, particularly during the critical 'golden period' to reduce fatalities.

Complete Collection of Disney Dreamlight Valley Tricks

A comprehensive guide to Disney Dreamlight Valley, detailing quest tracking, resource management, crafting, and progression tips. The article also notes gameplay strategies such as prioritising quests, farming, upgrading, and inventory management to optimise Dreamlight rewards.

Mustela Launches Baby Skincare Line for Atopic Dermatitis

Mustela, distributed by PT Interbat, launched the 'Together for Atopic Skin' campaign in Jakarta to educate families on recognising signals of atopic dermatitis and protecting the skin barrier. The programme builds on more than seven decades of research and introduces the Stelatopia line, developed from the ten-year E.V.E.I.L.S study to better manage eczema. Company executives say caring for atopic skin means accompanying families through the experience with comfort, supported by credible medical education.

Public Works Minister reveals alleged signature forgery on internal ministry documents

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo disclosed alleged forgery of his signature on internal ministry documents, with the signatures differing from his own and document numbers not matching the ministry's official archives. The case has been referred to the legal bureau for further action, amid concerns about administrative security within the ministry. He also referenced President Prabowo Subianto's claims of a 'deep state' in the bureaucracy, describing it as existing in the ministry and a problem being addressed.

Kemenag-Walubi prepare Vesak celebrations at Borobudur Temple

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) is coordinating with the National Vesak Committee 2026, Walubi, and other agencies to prepare Vesak celebrations at Borobudur Temple in Magelang, Central Java. Officials emphasise equal religious rights and cultural heritage preservation to accommodate worshippers from across the country while ensuring the proceedings are orderly and reverent. The Kenari Field, with a capacity of around 10,000, means some attendees will be outside the main area.

Aside from PT Musim Mas being named a suspect, there are 149 HTI and palm oil concessions across river basins in Riau

Jikalahari welcomed the Riau Police's Ditreskrimsus decision to name PT Musim Mas as a suspect in an alleged environmental crime linked to palm oil cultivation along the Air Hitam River. The investigation indicates the area was opened for planting in 1997–1998 and began producing in 2002, with the company alleged to have profited for more than two decades; the article notes 149 HTI and palm oil concessions across Riau's river basins, underscoring the scale of ecological risk and the need for broader enforcement.

Trump Dithers, NATO Baffled — Everyone Baffled

US President Donald Trump suddenly announced 5,000 additional troops to Poland, reversing Washington’s earlier decision to withdraw troops from Germany and prompting concern about coordination with NATO allies as ministers gathered ahead of the Ankara summit. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and Poland welcomed the move, but questions remained about U.S.–European alignment. Foreign Secretary Marco Rubio tried to reassure allies that the redeployment is not punitive and would be reassessed to fit global strategic needs ahead of the Ankara gathering.

South Sulawesi Woman Dies After Being Fed Analgesic Tablets by Alleged Lover in Jealousy Case

A 40-year-old woman identified by initials MH was found dead in a Makassar hotel room. Police say her alleged lover—both married—fed her crushed analgesic tablets dissolved in water, amid a suspected jealousy motive after learning of her relationship with another man. The case underscores violent crime linked to relationship jealousy.

Pekanbaru Plunged into Darkness as Riau Police's RAGA Team Patrols to Prevent Crime

During a power outage across northern Sumatra, several districts in Pekanbaru went dark. The Riau Police's RAGA unit was deployed to patrol hotspots and residential areas to deter street crime and disturbances linked to the blackout. The move underscores the police's commitment to public safety and includes personnel from multiple units.

MUI: Release of Indonesian nationals Abducted by Israel Demonstrates Strength of Solidarity with Palestine

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) welcomed the release of Indonesian citizens detained by the Israeli military during the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 humanitarian mission to Palestine, praising the public pressure and diplomatic efforts behind it. Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim said the detention violated international law and that Israel, supported by the United States, remains responsible for the actions against humanitarian activists.

Desa Emas Programme Drives Village Enterprise Groups to Break into Export Markets

The Desa Emas programme, run by Yayasan Indonesia Setara and Inotek, has boosted capacity and competitiveness among village business groups, with Poktan Mekar Lestari and KUB Cagar Alam beginning to access international markets, including Malaysia. The initiative links capacity-building, product innovation, and market access to expand export opportunities, supported by government programmes and international partnerships.

Investors Dump Indonesian Stocks as Export Controls Shock Market

Indonesia's stocks slid and the Jakarta Composite Index moved into correction territory as investors priced in new export controls, external risks from the Middle East, and pressure on state banks after Fitch warned on sovereign support. Trading was heavy with 437 decliners to 123 advancers, as analysts warned the policies could dampen the investment climate in the near term, even as they aim to boost state revenue. Authorities meanwhile pushed ahead with the DHE SDA framework to shore up foreign exchange reserves, broadening yuan settlement and extending tenor as Bank Indonesia expands eligible instruments to support rupiah stability.

Purbaya on Djaka Budhi Utama's Fate: Decision Next Week

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the fate of Djaka Budhi Utama, the Director General of Customs and Excise, will be decided next week amid bribery allegations involving Blueray Cargo. He will follow President Prabowo Subianto's orders but did not specify what those orders are. The case is being heard in Jakarta, with prosecutors alleging monthly payments from Blueray Cargo to Djaka and other customs officials.

US hails Sweden as a 'model NATO ally', seeks to deepen cooperation

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio hails Sweden as a model NATO ally and says Washington intends to deepen cooperation, particularly in technology and innovation, at a signing ceremony for the Prosperity Technology Agreement in Sweden. The remarks underscore ongoing transatlantic partnership amid broader debates about NATO and US alliances.

UPI Professor Says MBG Programme Is Beneficial If Managed Properly

Cecep Darmawan of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia argues that MBG could drive long-term national development if governed transparently and targeted, supported by a holistic educational ecosystem. He urges prioritising the most vulnerable groups when budgets are tight, disseminating best practices from successful MBG schools, and bolstering cross-sector collaboration to sustain nutrition provision.

Portrait of Greenlanders Taking to the Streets to Reject US 'Invasion'

Hundreds of Greenlanders protested the opening of a new United States Consulate, waving flags and banners calling for the US to withdraw. The demonstrations stressed Greenland's sovereignty and democracy, with the Prime Minister and other politicians declining to attend the ceremony; tensions with Denmark and NATO allies were highlighted.

KPU RI Applauds Badung Regency's Democracy Creative Space

Badung Regency's General Elections Commission (KPU) in Bali is strengthening democracy through the Democracy Creative Space (DCS) at the Rumah Pintar Pemilu. KPU RI chairman Mochammad Afifuddin praised DCS as a leading national example of transforming KPU offices into open, user-friendly public spaces, and urged further innovations across Bali ahead of the next elections.

Police say street crime is evenly spread across Jabodetabek; why is West Jakarta under the spotlight?

Jakarta's police say street crime is spread across their jurisdiction, even as West Jakarta has become a focal point of social media virality. They are investigating amplification on platforms and other factors—such as socioeconomic differences—behind the apparent rise there; in the last three weeks, 173 street-crime suspects were arrested, some armed. They are also examining a model's claim of being a mugging victim to determine whether there was an attempt to create a climate of fear.

BMKG Warns of Prolonged Rainfall Potential in North Sumatra

BMKG has warned the public to monitor a potential prolonged period of rainfall across parts of North Sumatra on Saturday, 23 May 2026, with forecasts of light to moderate rain that could persist and cause floods, landslides, and other hydrometeorological hazards. The agency notes rain across multiple districts at different times of day, with temperatures around 14–33°C and humidity up to 99%.

Misbakhun says the presence of DSI will safeguard the investment climate - BCA Sekuritas

Misbakhun, the chairman of Commission XI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, says the formation of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) is a strategic move to safeguard the investment climate through government guarantees and oversight, and could curb under-invoicing in export reporting to boost state revenue and foreign exchange. He also suggests DSI would strengthen transparency, data integration, and Indonesia's bargaining position in global markets.

Understanding Kindness More Honestly Amid Digital Judgement

Religious teacher Ustaz Jojo argues that true goodness should be directed to God rather than seeking public validation, using fasting as an illustration of private devotion. The piece also highlights BCA Syariah’s Dari Sahabat untuk Sahabat platform and the Sahabat Berkahmu campaign to strengthen digital services, mosque partnerships, and financial literacy for youth, as well as regulatory and Baznas' roles in promoting Islamic banking and micropreneur activity.

Public Works Minister Reveals Reasons for Slow Progress in Sekolah Rakyat Construction

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo criticised internal ministry performance delaying the Sekolah Rakyat project, which he says is only around 58-59% complete as of 20 May 2026. He noted some construction contracts will finish after the target operational date, and has dismissed several staff. He remains optimistic that most of the 93 Sekolah Rakyat being built can be completed by June 2026, with 88 schools expected to be finished for the July 2026 academic year.

Rubio urges NATO to commit to increasing defence production

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged NATO members to commit to significantly increasing defence production capacity, warning that ammunition stocks are not yet ready for future needs. He said the alliance must widen the transatlantic industrial base and convert defence spending into real warfighting capability ahead of the Ankara Summit, arguing that a stronger Europe would make NATO stronger. The report also notes President Trump’s consideration of withdrawing the US from NATO and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s remarks on allied support for the Iran campaign.

Pertamina strengthens sustainable mobility across land, sea and air sectors

Pertamina reiterates its commitment to sharpen scenario planning and transform its business to bolster an energy and mobility ecosystem across Indonesia's transport sectors. It outlines steps including EV charging and battery swapping with IBC, a new integrated bioethanol plant in Banyuwangi, green ammonia for shipping, solar panels on decks, and SAF from used cooking oil via Pelita Air, underscoring cross-sector collaboration to meet the 2060 net-zero target.

BI strengthens KLM to keep lending rates more controlled after BI Rate rise

BI has reinforced the Macroprudential Liquidity Incentive Policy (KLM) based on the spread between the BI Rate and banks' lending rates, following a 50 basis point increase in the BI Rate, to keep credit costs within manageable bounds and maintain credit growth. The updated scheme, effective from August 1, 2026, introduces a spread-based incentive and expands channels including non-traditional financing to broaden bank funding.

Admit They Didn't Know the Rules, Nine People Fined Rp 150,000 for Littering in Badung

Nine residents from Kuta and Kuta Selatan were tried in a lightweight criminal court for littering in Badung and fined Rp 150,000. The case highlights ongoing local enforcement under Badung Perda No. 7/2016 and the use of tipiring hearings to deter illegal dumping, with officials noting that repeat offenders face stiffer penalties.

Selection Panel Backs Permanent Ethics Council of the Indonesian Ombudsman Following Hery Susanto Case

Selection Panel for Ombudsman RI members has backed a permanent Ethics Council to strengthen internal clearance processes amid scrutiny of the Ombudsman chairman, Hery Susanto, in a case concerning nickel mining governance in Southeast Sulawesi. They say incumbents should be cleared by the Ethics Council to ensure data accuracy and decision-making integrity, noting that no legal issues about Hery Susanto were found during the selection. The move is presented as a breakthrough to restore public trust in the Ombudsman RI and improve its functioning.

North Tapanuli Regency Media Publication Programme Under Scrutiny

The North Tapanuli Regency's programme paying media outlets for publication of content has drawn criticism over its convoluted naming, modest payments, and potential to compromise media independence. 108 media participated between January and March 2026, with Rp155 million spent; journalists say payments are small and the process burdensome.

Indonesian Students Sweep Awards at EuroMUN 2026 in the Netherlands

Four Indonesian students were honoured at EuroMUN 2026 in Maastricht, with Rebecca Raphael Angelica Simorangkir earning Best Delegate in DISEC and Nisriinaa Alyaa securing Best Delegate in NATO. The four-day event, held 14-17 May at Maastricht University, showcased Indonesian diplomacy and public speaking before a global audience of 250 delegates from 40 countries.

Ahead of Idul Adha, red bird's-eye chilies at Pasar Slipi reach Rp80,000 per kilogram

Ahead of Idul Adha, prices of staples such as red bird's-eye chilies and red onions have risen at Pasar Slipi in West Jakarta, with red bird's-eye chilies reaching Rp80,000 per kilogram. Wholesale prices are high and traders say consumers are cutting back, illustrating pre-festival price pressures on essentials.

Furore over erroneous death announcement of King Charles III

An erroneous death bulletin for King Charles III was broadcast by Radio Caroline in Essex due to a computer fault triggering a standard protocol. The station apologised on air after halting the transmission; the incident occurred while Charles and Queen Camilla were on a working visit to Northern Ireland. Radio Caroline, founded in 1964 as a pirate station, now operates on land from Maldon, Essex.

Prabowo learns 2008 crisis lessons from SBY economic team

President Prabowo Subianto invited former economic ministers and officials who served under Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to share experiences from handling the 2008 global financial crisis. The meeting discussed inflation spikes, oil-price shocks, and macro fundamentals, noting Indonesia’s current situation is comparatively stronger with rupiah depreciation around 5%. The President instructed monitoring of financial-sector regulations and bank capital strength, while attendees, including former BI Governor Burhanuddin Abdullah and Bappenas executives, stressed the need for better fiscal and monetary coordination to address future challenges.

Trading App Optimised with AI to Attract Gen Z Investors

IPOT has unveiled a dynamic, AI-powered UI/UX for Gen Z investors, turning the bottom navigation into a modular operating system and adding features such as EZ Mode, Cancel All Orders, and an Insights hub. The update aims to deliver a faster, personalised, and more decision-ready trading experience while keeping core trading tools intact.

Co-living and Housing in Depok Become the Driver of Property Growth

Pos Properti Indonesia is accelerating its diversification to sustain growth amid challenges in the national property sector, unveiling three growth engines for 2026: Homy Nomad co-living, a strengthened Design & Construction unit, and a housing development in Harjamukti, Depok. The company targets around 18% growth next year, well above industry projections of roughly 5%. It cites urban living patterns as new opportunities and emphasises data-driven expansion and asset revitalisation expertise.

Police Restrict GBLA Stadium Capacity for Persib's Title-Deciding Match to 75 Percent

Thousands of police personnel will secure Persib Bandung's BRI Super League title-deciding clash at the GBLA, with capacity limited to around 32,000 fans (75%). Security includes a four-ring perimeter, sterilisation checks, and a ban on dangerous items and drinks in plastic bottles or cans inside the stands. Officials have also organised local 'nobar' venues to accommodate supporters safely away from the stadium.

Power Outages in Parts of Sumatra

Power outages hit parts of Sumatra after a PLN-disrupted electricity system in the north of the island, with affected areas including Aceh and North Sumatra; reports also indicate outages across much of West Sumatra and Riau. PLN says it is investigating and deploying technical teams to restore power gradually, with updates to be provided via the PLN Mobile app and PLN 123, and has apologised for the disruption.

IAEA urges Russia and Ukraine to agree a ceasefire at the ZNPP

IAEA says it is negotiating with Moscow and Kyiv to secure a temporary local ceasefire for repairs to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant's power-supply lines. The plant has lost external power three times following a March 24 outage of the main Dneprovskaya line, and remains reliant on a backup feed; it is the largest nuclear plant in Europe, with six reactors, under Russian ownership as of October 2022.

IPA Convex 2026: A Bridge Between Government and Industry, and a Momentum for Upstream Oil and Gas Investment

IPA Convex 2026 closed after three days of deals and dialogues, underscoring stronger government–industry collaboration in Indonesia's upstream oil and gas sector and signalling renewed investment momentum. The event saw eight Production Sharing Contracts signed, 16 commercial agreements worth over US$30 billion, five CCS/CCUS development pacts, and three government-to-government collaborations; the government also announced plans to offer 118 new oil and gas blocks to investors, underscoring future opportunities. Energy policy, technology and youth participation featured prominently.

OJK to Tokenise Real-World Assets, Introduce 'Halal' Crypto in Indonesia

The Indonesian financial regulator OJK is developing a Real World Asset (RWA) tokenisation model to enable trading of crypto backed by tangible assets in Indonesia, potentially aligning with MUI's fatwa on halal finance and promoting Islamic financial inclusion. The initiative includes public discussion on using tokenised assets to boost liquidity for businesses, subject to sharia-compliant considerations and ongoing regulatory approvals.

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Welcomes Geopark Run Series as Host

Banyuwangi will host the Geopark Run Series for 2026/2027 starting with the Ijen Geopark Run on 23 August 2026, as part of a broader push to develop sport tourism and geopark promotion. The programme will also visit Minang, Ciletuh and Belitong, with government backing to boost local economies and community empowerment through tourism and the creative economy.

Insurance Industry Aligns Policy Documents, Ensuring Customer Benefits Remain Valid

The Indonesian life insurance sector is standardising policy documentation in line with directives from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and guidelines from the Indonesian Life Insurance Association, following a Constitutional Court ruling on KUHD Article 251. The update clarifies terms, strengthens transparency and consumer protection without altering insured benefits; implementation is underway with a focus on training and consistent information for customers.

MBG at SMAN 28, South Jakarta, teaches character education and environmental stewardship

The Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at SMAN 28, South Jakarta, goes beyond feeding students by teaching character education and environmental stewardship, including waste management and eco-initiatives such as maggot farming, composting, eco-enzymes, and hydroponics. The distribution is reported to be smooth, with 518 of 750 students actively receiving MBG daily after an initial democratic intake of 641 volunteers.

China rejects deployment of U.S. missile system in Japan

China has voiced strong opposition to the planned deployment of U.S. mid-range missiles in Japan, saying the move threatens regional security and risks an arms race. Tokyo says Typhon and HIMARS will be deployed for joint drills before being moved to U.S. bases in Japan, highlighting rising Indo-Pacific security tensions.

Richard Lee's P-21 Case File Handed Over to Banten High Prosecutor's Office

Authorities say the P-21 complete file in the consumer protection case involving doctor and beauty-clinic owner Richard Lee has been handed to the Banten High Prosecutor's Office, with custody transfer planned. He faces charges under the Consumer Protection Law with possible penalties of up to 12 years' imprisonment or Rp5 billion in fines, plus related articles carrying up to 5 years and Rp2 billion in fines. He was detained after failing to report and for a TikTok live broadcast.

Attorney General Burhanuddin closes BPA Fair 2026, records total auction proceeds of Rp997.4 billion

Attorney General Burhanuddin closes the Asset Recovery Agency (BPA) Fair 2026, emphasising a shift towards recovering state losses as a measure of justice. The event, run with DJKN and Himbara, featured new art and musical instrument auctions and raised nearly Rp1 trillion in total proceeds, with high attendance and strong public support; BPA aims to become an annual programme to bolster state revenue and fiscal stability.

Army Chief of Staff and Bali Governor Coordinate PSEL Waste-to-Energy Plant at Suwung Landfill

The Army Chief of Staff, General Maruli Simanjuntak, and Bali Governor Wayan Koster met to accelerate the construction of a PSEL waste-to-energy facility at Suwung landfill. The project is slated to run for 18 months with full operation targeted for December 2027, and pyrolysis technology is proposed as a faster, emission-free option starting around April 2027. The meeting emphasised cross-agency cooperation, transparent governance, and community participation to address Bali’s waste management challenges.

Doctor Warns of the Dangers of Perfume FOMO on Teenage Behaviour

A doctor has warned parents about perfume-related fear of missing out (FOMO) among children and adolescents in Jakarta, urging them not to treat fragrance purchases as a status symbol. The piece notes that social media, influencers and digital advertising drive the trend, and stresses parental guidance, with UNICEF highlighting how digital marketing can influence young minds.

ANTARA Elevates Diversity Narrative Through Photo Exhibition Titled Ursyalim

ANTARA's chief executive says the drive to foreground diversity informs the assignment of photojournalist Muhammad Adimaja to Jerusalem in February 2026. The Ursyalim exhibition at the ANTARA Heritage Center in Jakarta gathers around 100 images to showcase cross-border peace and cultural diplomacy, with public access free of charge from 22-29 May 2026.

Waste management at Bagek Kembar Beach supports sustainable tourism

An integrated waste management programme is being expanded at Bagek Kembar Beach in Mataram to curb coastal waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through circular economy principles and community empowerment. The initiative is led by PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (EPI) in collaboration with PT Pelayaran Bahtera Adhiguna and engages local government, Pokdarwis, and PLN Group. It includes waste sorting training, institutional strengthening, maggot farming development, and delivery of integrated waste management facilities, as part of PLN EPI's ESG commitments.

Covert Chinese and Iranian Business Networks Take Root in Russian-Occupied Ukrainian Territories

Chinese and Iranian firms are expanding their footprint in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions, with at least 17 Chinese companies operating in the areas under Russian occupation. A 2023 contract for supply of stone-crushing machinery and growing use of the yuan signal deeper economic integration, prompting concerns about international law. Kyiv has sanctioned some Chinese firms, but Ukraine remains reliant on certain Chinese technology and services.

Bangkalan DPRD Member Smiles as His Own Child Takes to the Demonstration

A Bangkalan DPRD member was seen smiling as his own son led a protest at a student demonstration outside the DPRD building. A circulating video shows the moment, with the councillor later explaining he did not realise his son would speak until after the event, and he withdrew inside amid light banter from colleagues.

Prabowo ally Rosan's wealth rises 6.55 percent to Rp921.27 billion

Rosan Perkasa Roeslani's wealth has risen from Rp864.65 billion in October 2024 to Rp921.27 billion by December 2025, a 6.55% increase during his tenure as Minister of Investment under President Prabowo Subianto. The growth is primarily due to land and buildings across NTB, NTT, Bali, and DKI Jakarta, with additional securities, cash, and vehicles reported in the LHKPN 2025.

Why Luke Thomas Is Appointed as President Director of DSI: Experienced and Speaks Indonesian

Luke Thomas Mahony has been appointed as President Director of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), a state-owned entity set up to regulate the export of natural resource commodities. The appointment, justified by his multinational leadership experience and ability to speak Indonesian, comes as the government moves to tighten export oversight and curb under-invoicing, transfer pricing, and export earnings leakage. DSI aims to strengthen exchange-rate stability and boost state revenue through taxes, export duties, and PNBP SDA, with implications for the economy and trade governance.

Rising begal incidents prompt Metro Jaya Police to probe the mastermind network behind the perpetrators

Jakarta's Metro Jaya Police say they will probe the main network behind begal perpetrators as such crimes surge. A dedicated task force has been formed to track them down, and investigators will conduct digital forensics on seized devices to determine whether other actors are involved beyond the robberies.

Housing Near Stations Becomes the New Engine of Property Growth

PT Pos Properti Indonesia is accelerating diversification with three growth engines for 2026: the co-living Homy Nomad, a strengthened Design & Construction line, and a housing development in Harjamukti, Cimanggis. The initiatives aim for 18% growth in 2026, well above industry forecasts, with early Homy Nomad sites near MRT stations showing positive occupancy and planned expansion based on data-driven methods.

ITDC: Investment climate in Mandalika remains conducive and on the move

The Mandalika KEK investment climate remains conducive through 2026, with the cumulative investment exceeding Rp6 trillion and job creation of around 26,000. Domestic and international investors are active as tourist development continues, with 285,000 visitors recorded in January–April 2026, while new investments and sports facilities bolster Mandalika’s tourism growth.

Ahead of HLUN 2026, the Ministry of Social Affairs Organises Free Health Checks and Elderly ID Card Services

The Ministry of Social Affairs is organising Adminduk services including electronic ID card registration and free health checks for the elderly in Manggarai Timur as part of HLUN 2026. The event highlights ongoing efforts to upgrade elderly citizens to electronic IDs, with 50 seniors undergoing health checks and consultations; local officials emphasised continued outreach to update civil data and potential further assistance for accessibility.

Prabowo to Tighten Palm Oil Exports, Amran Explains

Prime Minister Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to tighten governance of national strategic commodity exports, including palm oil. The government intends to require export of natural resource commodities via a dedicated state-owned entity, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), to curb under-invoicing, transfer pricing and capital flight, and to ensure prices are set domestically rather than abroad. Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman highlighted positive export trends and government determination to reclaim pricing control, while industry voices urged careful implementation to avoid disrupting markets.

Klaten disability community undergoes AI-powered TB screening

A TB screening initiative in Indonesia employs AI-based chest X-ray analysis to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. The TBScreen.AI project is a collaborative effort involving universities in Indonesia and Australia, aiming to make early TB detection more inclusive and to strengthen the national health system.

MPR praises RI gov't for securing release of Indonesians from Israel

Indonesia’s MPR has praised the government for securing the release and ensuring the safe repatriation of nine Indonesians detained by Israel after attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Foreign Ministry coordinated with partner countries such as Türkiye, Egypt and Jordan and is leveraging Indonesia’s UN Human Rights Council presidency to push for international action, including sanctions, over perceived human rights violations. The nine activists have arrived in Istanbul awaiting repatriation, with the government emphasising continued support and condemning Israel’s detention as degrading and unlawful.

Banda Aceh Receives 950-Kilogram Sacrificial Cow Donated by the President

The Banda Aceh City Government has received a 950-kilogram sacrificial cow donated by President Prabowo Subianto for Eid al-Adha. The Simmental cow was bought from a local farmer in Ilie village for Rp83 million, and the meat will be distributed to residents in need, with health checks already completed and ongoing monitoring ahead of slaughter.

KPK Questions Acting Regent of Tulungagung as It Probes Money Flows in Gatot Sunu Wibowo Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is questioning the Acting Regent of Tulungagung, Ahmad Baharudin, to probe money flows linked to an extortion case involving the former Tulungagung Regent Gatot Sunu Wibowo. The agency has also examined a string of witnesses and previously conducted an arrest operation that saw 18 people detained, with ongoing investigations into payments allegedly tied to the Tulungagung government.

Togar Situmorang Appeals After 2.5-Year Sentence in Client Fraud Case

Indonesian lawyer Togar Situmorang has filed an appeal after receiving a 2.5-year prison sentence for fraud in a case involving a client. He argues the verdict is not final as a higher court appeal is underway and objects to the use of the word 'proven' in media coverage, asserting the matter remains under judicial process. The case traces to a dispute over the Double View Mansions project, with losses amounting to around Rp1.81 billion.

Want a home, a car, and affordable holidays? The BRI Consumer Expo 2026 has plenty of surprises

BRI is hosting a three-day consumer expo at the Jakarta International Convention Center from 22–24 May 2026, offering attractive financing for homes, cars, and holidays. The event showcases mortgage and vehicle financing with low rates, vouchers for property purchases, and a broad range of vehicles, aiming to provide integrated financial and lifestyle solutions for families, professionals and entrepreneurs.

Police respond to roaming 'pocong' phenomenon: If there is any crime, we will act

The Metro Jaya Regional Police say they will enforce the law without discrimination if the roaming 'pocong' phenomenon involves any criminal activity. They are also educating the public and planning anticipatory measures to prevent offences amid social media chatter about pocong in Tangerang Raya and Jakarta.

Deputy Minister for Communications and Digital: We Must Not Be Slaves to AI!

Deputy Minister Nezar Patria urged that AI be treated as a cooperative partner rather than a master, as AI rapidly evolves from ChatGPT to Agentic AI and towards physical AI in robotics. Indonesia is preparing an AI road map and strengthening data protections under the Personal Data Protection Law to govern use, rights and data security. He urged students to study emerging technologies and for citizens not to be mere users, in order to build strong digital sovereignty.

Ministry of Home Affairs and Komdigi Strengthen Synergy in Combating Online Gambling

The Indonesian government is stepping up its fight against online gambling as sites become more sophisticated and harder to trace. Cross-ministerial collaboration between the Ministry of Home Affairs and Komdigi aims to bolster cyber surveillance and protect the identities of digital investigators, amid reports that online gambling activity rose sharply in early 2026.

Deputy Regent Diar Reveals Why PDAM Coverage in Bangli Is Only 31 Percent

Deputy Regent I Wayan Diar said only 31 percent of Bangli’s residents have access to PDAM Tirta Danu Arta water, due to limited water sources. The Bangli government plans to extend supply using a new source in Lembean, Kintamani, while highlighting the high operating costs of pumping water to hillside settlements and concerns over Danau Batur’s sulfur-contaminated water. The dialogue also touched on potential adjustments to the APBD and water pricing as a result of these costs.

MAN IC Serpong Becomes Indonesia’s First Madrasah to Attain IB World School Status

MAN Insan Cendekia Serpong has been officially recognised as an IB Diploma Programme provider, becoming Indonesia’s first madrasah to join the IB World School network. The recognition came after a rapid, year-long process led by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and YPKBI, underscoring government commitment to widening access to international education. The milestone positions Indonesian madrasahs to compete globally and could serve as a model for other institutions nationwide.

Wakaf Salman Inaugurates Collaboration Hub in Jakarta

Wakaf Salman held the soft launch of its Collaboration Hub Jakarta at Masjid Al Ittihad on Saturday, 16 May, to strengthen cross‑community collaboration in the fields of dawah, education, social welfare and empowerment across Jabodetabek. The event, staged in partnership with Avisman Jabodetabek, Ikatan Alumni ITB and the Dewan Kemakmuran Masjid Al Ittihad, featured speeches and discussions, with a grand launch planned for June 2026 to widen the initiative’s reach.

Metro Jaya Police emphasise that the Begal-Hunting Team is still operating

The Metro Jaya Regional Police said their Begal-Hunting Team remains active in pursuing unresolved cases and safeguarding Jakarta. They reported 38 arrests by the team and 135 additional arrests by Polres units within the police's jurisdiction, along with hundreds of seized items, and outlined the legal framework and use-of-force provisions governing arrests.

Deputy Health Minister says immunisation is not haram, in line with ulama fatwas

Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono said immunisation is not haram but mubah, following fatwas from MUI and Aceh’s MPU (including Fatwas No. 12/2013 and No. 13/2012). He warned that low immunisation coverage has contributed to measles cases in Aceh (263 cases this year despite 33% coverage) and called for broader uptake. He highlighted Banda Aceh’s immunisation certificate programme as a promising step and proposed incentives such as free meals or schooling for fully immunised children to boost vaccination rates.

EDRR Indonesia Supports 20th Anniversary of the Yogyakarta and Central Java Earthquake

EDRR Indonesia's involvement in the 20th anniversary commemorations of the Yogyakarta and Central Java earthquake was recognised, highlighting school-based safety culture, disaster mitigation education, and economic recovery through survivor-owned UMKM. The programme signals ongoing corporate commitment to disaster risk reduction in Indonesia, ahead of a major Southeast Asian disaster mitigation technology expo in 2026.

Prices of Essential Goods at Pasar Baru Bekasi Rise as Shoppers Cut Back on Purchases

Prices of staple goods have risen at Pasar Baru Bekasi, prompting residents to reduce their shopping. Weni, a 48-year-old restaurant operator, says higher raw material costs have forced her to cut portions and adjust stock. Customers are increasingly bringing their own meals, while market prices and travel costs are cited as additional pressures.

PT SBI Increases Refuse-Derived Fuel Utilisation to Curb Emissions

PT SBI, a subsidiary of Semen Indonesia, aims to lift its use of RDF and biomass to cut carbon emissions, targeting a Thermal Substitution Rate of 17% by 2026, up from 15.11% in 2025. The company cites a 2025 CO2-intensity reduction to 567 kg per tonne of cement, 1.98 million tonnes of waste and RDF used, and collaborations with 21 local governments, with plans to expand in 2026 as part of a broader decarbonisation and circular economy strategy.

The MPR's Research Body Discusses People's Sovereignty in the Perspective of Pancasila Democracy

An MPR RI Focus Group Discussion in Yogyakarta on 22 May 2026 examined 'People's Sovereignty in the Perspective of Pancasila Democracy'. It stressed that democracy must deliver substantive sovereignty—not just electoral legitimacy—and highlighted meaningful public participation, oversight, and the strengthening of both political and economic democracy under the 1945 Constitution. The session's conclusions will feed into a comprehensive study and recommendations on the Constitution and its implementation.

CBN Pushes Digital Transformation of the Hospitality Sector in North Sumatra Through Business Gathering

CBN hosted a Business Gathering with the Indonesian Hotel General Manager Association (IHGMA) on 23 May 2026 to discuss digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the rapidly evolving hospitality sector. The event showcased digital solutions including AI-enabled booking, guest services, and an omnichannel platform aimed at improving guest experience and operational efficiency, with participation from IHGMA leaders and hotel industry representatives in Medan.

'Time Bomb' Iran Keeps Ticking, Is Nationalism the Answer?

Iran's government is intensifying nationalist propaganda amid economic pressure, ongoing conflict, and rising domestic discontent, displaying posters in Tehran and staging patriotic symbols. Analysts question whether the campaign will stabilise the country as economic woes persist, while power dynamics shift towards the Revolutionary Guards and nationalist figures are foregrounded.

International MTQ at Istiqlal Mosque to be attended by nine countries

The International Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur’an (MTQ) at Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta will run from 23–25 May 2026 and include participants from nine countries and 28 Indonesian provinces. Organised by World Mosque Youth, the event aims to strengthen Islamic unity, promote Indonesia as a centre for international Islamic activity, and has received broad support from religious and government figures.

Monkey Steals Golfer's Mobile Phone in Sentul, Carries It Up a Tree

A viral video shows a grey monkey stealing a golfer's mobile phone on a golf course in Sentul, Bogor, West Java, lifting the device up into a tree. Despite attempts by several golfers to attract the animal's attention to return the phone, the monkey remains in possession of the device. Local fire service officials say there have been no official reports of the incident, but would respond if asked.

Thousands of Participants Attend Day One of Jogja Financial Festival 2026

More than 5,000 participants from diverse professions and generations attended the opening day of Jogja Financial Festival 2026 in Yogyakarta, underscoring a push to broaden financial literacy. The two-day event features high-profile talks, scholarship fundraising, and a programme of performances aimed at fostering an inclusive financial culture in Indonesia.

Krom Bank Indonesia Tbk Shareholders Approve 2025 Profit to Be Retained Rather Than Paid as Dividends

Krom Bank Indonesia Tbk's shareholders have approved retaining the entire net profit for 2025, amounting to Rp143 billion, rather than distributing it as dividends, at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. The decision aims to strengthen capital structure and fund internal expansion amid a competitive banking sector; the results reflect robust earnings and growing balance sheet amid macroeconomic challenges.

Not Just Displaying Goods: The Role of Planograms in Modern Stores

Planograms are visual guides that dictate how products are arranged on shelves and displays, helping stores look tidy, improve the shopping experience, and boost sales. The approach determines the placement of best-sellers and new products, allocates display space according to product size, and helps ensure consistency across many branches.

Airvy unveils portable fan with AI chip for energy efficiency

Airvy Indonesia has launched three AI-powered portable fans—Lite-i60, Air80S, and Air36S—through PT Best Fortune Indonesia, featuring a 4000 mAh battery and the Smart AI Chip Ultra Protection to enhance energy efficiency. The fans employ TurboWind motors up to 23,000 RPM and protect against overheating, overcurrent, short circuits and overcharging; Lite-i60 lasts up to 12 hours, Air80S is lightweight with a contemporary design, and Air36S doubles as a desk or neck fan, with all models available on Indonesian e-commerce platforms.

Traffic gridlock in Pekanbaru as power outage hits, police deploy traffic control

A widespread electricity outage across Sumatra hit Pekanbaru, causing traffic lights to fail and gridlock in several areas. The Riau Police deployed 156 officers to manage traffic and deter crime as PLN investigates the cause of the outage.

BRI Consumer Expo 2026 Becomes a Platform to Broaden Access to Financial Services

BRI Insurance used the BRI Consumer Expo 2026 to promote integrated protection solutions and broaden access to financial services, with discounts, bonuses, and education services for attendees. The event, held 22–24 May 2026 at the Jakarta International Convention Center, emphasises the One Stop Financial Solution approach and synergy with the BRI Group to boost financial literacy and risk mitigation through insurance. The promotions include up to 25% premium discounts, and bonus protections for early buyers of motor vehicle and home insurance, plus fuel vouchers.

BFIN Executive Increases Share Ownership for Investment - BCA Sekuritas

An executive of PT BFI Finance Indonesia Tbk (BFIN), Sutadi, has increased his stake in the company for personal investment, purchasing 1,000,000 ordinary shares at Rp700 per share on 21 May 2026, for Rp700 million. The purchase lifts his stake from 21,000,000 shares (0.14% voting rights) to 22,000,000 shares (0.15%).

OJK's Move to Strengthen the Guarantee Industry Receives Support

Jamkrindo backs the Financial Services Authority’s move to strengthen and purify the national guarantee industry, emphasising its importance for healthy, focused, and sustainable financial services and for improving access to finance for MSMEs and the productive sector. The Indonesia Guarantee Summit 2026 showcased governance, digital transformation, and cross-sector collaboration as essential to building an inclusive, credible guarantee ecosystem.

Study on Foreign PSEs' Obligation to Have an Office in Indonesia Targeted for Completion by 2026

Indonesia's Kemkomdigi is pursuing a study on requiring foreign electronic system providers to maintain representative offices in Indonesia, targeting completion in 2026. Officials say the regulation could take the form of a government or ministerial regulation, and any foreign PSE with a large Indonesian audience would be required to have an office in the country.

Electricity Across Riau to Aceh Completely Out After Disruption, PLN Apologises

Power supply across central and northern Sumatra has collapsed following a system disruption, with Aceh also reporting a total outage. PLN says technical teams are examining the cause, coordinating with field crews, and will provide updates via the PLN Mobile app and the 123 contact centre as power is restored.

Research Shows Gen Z Most Ready to Use AI, But...

Indonesian Gen Z and Millennials show high AI usage at work, with 87% and 88% respectively using AI daily, well above the global average of 74%. Yet many feel their employers have not provided adequate AI training, and younger workers seek meaningful work and leadership roles despite concerns about burnout, corruption, climate issues, and housing affordability impacting career decisions.

Lestari Moerdijat Urges Strengthening Child Protection in Digital Spaces

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian People’s Consultative Assembly, Lestari Moerdijat (Rerie), argues that threats to children in digital spaces cannot be solved by regulation alone and calls for broad collaboration to create a safe digital environment for future generations. She stresses digital literacy as a core family, school, and community obligation as internet access expands, while policy measures to shield under‑16s are implemented.

East Jakarta City Government confirms 182 pothole locations have been repaired

The East Jakarta City Government reports that 182 pothole sites have been repaired by the Public Works Sub-Department across its jurisdiction, following targeted monitoring in Cakung and Duren Sawit. Officials say swift repairs aim to safeguard road users, with further monitoring planned across other districts.

All segments of society urged to commit to creating a safe space for women and children

Indonesia's Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has urged all segments of society to commit to safe spaces for women and children, across policy, workplaces, education, digital spaces, and families. The call follows 2024 SPHPN and SNPHAR findings highlighting violence, and stresses cross-ministerial cooperation and expanded services; the aim is to ensure no woman lives in fear and every child grows up with protection.

5 Ways to Remove Stubborn Whiteheads on the Face

Experts say whiteheads form when pores are clogged with oil, dead skin cells and dirt but are not inflamed. Heavy makeup and skincare products can worsen the issue, so opt for oil-free and non-comedogenic formulations and replace makeup regularly. For cleansing, use products containing glycolic or salicylic acid, used cautiously to avoid drying the skin; once daily is typically sufficient.

KemenPPPA emphasises strengthening protection for disabled children in Sekolah Rakyat

Indonesia's Ministry for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection says safeguarding disabled children must be strengthened in Sekolah Rakyat. SNPHAR 2024 data show high levels of violence against children with disabilities, underscoring the need for vigilant adults, including school leaders and teachers, to ensure a safe, inclusive educational environment. The ministry calls for Sekolah Rakyat to provide a non-discriminatory environment in line with the law on child protection.

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development: Government continues to oversee the Giant Sea Wall project

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, AHY, says the government is continuing to oversee the Giant Sea Wall project and hopes implementation will mature by 2027. The 575-kilometre coastal defence scheme aims to protect the Pantura coast from land subsidence and sea-level rise, while safeguarding food security, industry zones and coastal communities. The project is divided into 15 segments and will involve cross-regional planning with local governments.

Vice President stresses modernisation of seaweed farming in Rote Ndao

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming visited Rote Ndao to push modernisation and downstream processing of seaweed. He said the area has tremendous potential but is underutilised, and linked the plan to national food security and regional economic development. The visit included assessments of the PSN salt and seaweed projects within the national K-SIGN industrial centre, and he urged improvements in seeds, equipment, post-harvest facilities, and packaging capabilities.

Indonesia shuts 172 illegal rail crossings to cut accidents

The Transportation Ministry, together with PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI), has closed 172 unauthorized level crossings to improve rail safety, citing that around 80% of accidents occur at such crossings and that motorcycles and cars are the main offenders. There are 3,674 level crossings nationwide, with 1,638 priority locations set for safety upgrades and a budget of Rp800 billion (about US$44 million) allocated for safety facilities. Recent figures show a downward trend in incidents from 337 in 2024 to 291 in 2025, with 102 cases as of May 1, 2026, reinforcing the effects of safety improvements and public awareness campaigns.

Eddy Soeparno Says Release of Indonesian Citizens from Israel Is Proof of Indonesia's Effective Diplomacy

Eddy Soeparno, Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian MPR from the PAN faction, welcomed the release of Indonesian nationals detained by Israel, praising swift diplomacy led by President Prabowo Subianto, Foreign Minister Sugiono, and the Foreign Ministry. He condemned Israel's actions as breaches of international law and urged caution in humanitarian efforts in conflict zones, while praying for peace for the Palestinian people, especially in Gaza.

DPR lawmaker backs Prabowo's pledge to crack down on rogue officials

Abdullah, a Commission III member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), backs President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to take firm action against rogue state officials who violate the law and shield crime, while underscoring the need for stronger external oversight by the KPK and the Ombudsman. He advocates merit-based recruitment, faster disciplinary procedures, and sustained bureaucratic reform to root out corruption and abuse of power; Prabowo has urged the public to film misconduct and report directly to him, and to purge agencies of corrupt practices.

Data Centres Move into Rural Villages, People Suffer — Entrepreneurs Reap Large Profits

As AI drives rapid data centre expansion, operators promise productivity gains while workers fear displacement and communities bear environmental and infrastructure costs. The report uses a Mansfield, Georgia case, where a Meta data centre coincides with water and energy pressures and rising bills, illustrating tensions between digitalisation and rural living standards.

Power outage in Sumatra, PLN apologises

PLN apologised for a total blackout affecting Central and Northern Sumatra since 18:45 WIB on Friday, 22 May 2026, as a system disturbance was investigated. The utility dispatched technical teams to inspect the grid and urged residents to stay calm, with updates to be provided via the PLN Mobile app and PLN 123 contact centre. Observers reported outages in Pekanbaru and surrounding areas, with traffic lights out and hot conditions worsening discomfort.

Maranatha University Confers Professorship on Visual Language Expert in Art, Design and Media

Maranatha University Bandung has conferred professorship on Ariesa Pandanwangi in the field of art, design and media with a specialisation in visual language. In her inaugural address, she argued for preserving visual language as a cultural identity amid globalisation and modern visual culture, and presented a Sunda batik project derived from the Bujangga Manik manuscript developed with industry partners. The university's leadership emphasised the role of professors in advancing research, fostering innovation, and strengthening industry collaboration, noting gains in IKU indicators for the private institution.

Gibran Acknowledges Two Bridges in Kupang Severely Damaged, Amfoang Isolated

Vice-President Gibran Rakabuming Raka acknowledged that two bridges in Amfoang, Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, are severely damaged, isolating several areas and forcing students to cross rivers. Footage of his on-site inspection of the Termanu and Kapsali Bridges in Manubelon went viral, amid his pledge to coordinate with relevant ministries to find a solution.

KPK Examines 19 Tulungagung Officials to Probe Alleged Project Rigging

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) questioned 19 Tulungagung regional officials over two days as part of new developments in an investigation into alleged extortion and other payments connected to the deactivated Tulungagung regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo. The probes focus on possible fund flows to the regent and on the procurement process within the Tulungagung government, including suspected manipulation outside the e-catalogue system. Investigators also indicated that the case could be expanded as more witnesses are examined and further evidence is gathered.

Through This Programme, BRI Invites Customers to Spotify Camp Nou, FC Barcelona

BRI has launched the BRI Debit FC Barcelona programme, offering five winners of the February–April 2026 period an exclusive trip to Barcelona, including a visit to Spotify Camp Nou and a live FC Barcelona match against Real Betis, plus other premium experiences and a dedicated debit card design. The programme blends banking with lifestyle perks, requiring minimum top-ups to qualify and running until 30 June 2026.

Ministry of Tourism boosts sport-based tourism through the Geopark Run Series

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is reinforcing its quality tourism programme with the Geopark Run Series 2026–2027 to bolster sport-based tourism and the local economies around UNESCO Global Geoparks. The series will run in four geoparks—Ijen, Minangkabau, Ciletuh, and Belitong—with events scheduled from August 2026 to April 2027 and a target of at least 10,000 participants. The initiative frames sport tourism as a sustainable growth pillar, supported by global travel trends and UNESCO recognition.

Lombok Barat's former LCC asset returns to the regency government after corruption case is final

An 8.4-hectare ex-LCC asset in Gerimax, Lombok Barat, has been returned to the Lombok Barat Regency after a final corruption ruling on the 2016 operational cooperation between Tripat and Bliss Pembangunan Sejahtera. The land is now owned by the regency, while the LCC buildings remain with Bliss; the government is considering future uses, including potential new partnerships. The case involved a Rp 264 billion loan secured against 4.8 hectares and led to an estimated state loss of more than Rp 39 billion, with three defendants including former Lombok Barat Regent Zaini Arony.

How to use the Photo Assist Galaxy AI feature on the Samsung Galaxy S26

Samsung's Galaxy S26 introduces Photo Assist, a Galaxy AI-powered editing tool that lets users remove distractions and adjust visuals through simple text prompts, without extra apps. The feature automatically fills gaps with natural textures and can save an edit history for revisions. The device also includes Now Nudge and Document Scan & Enhance, with availability in Indonesia.

Purbaya reveals that officials from the Ministry of Finance and other ministries/agencies will be appointed as supervisors for DSI

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says officials from the Ministry of Finance and other ministries/agencies will be placed as supervisors of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI), following a proposal from the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs. The move aims to ensure robust oversight and prevent DSI from becoming a market-distorting monopoly, as the authority prepares a two-stage plan starting in June 2026 to evaluate and broker certain export transactions; the government has issued a Government Regulation on the governance of export of natural resource commodities, with state-owned enterprises designated as sole exporters for palm oil, coal, and ferro alloy.

Stepping Down from Man City, Pep Guardiola Takes a New Role at City Football Group

Pep Guardiola will leave Manchester City 12 months early to take up a new role as Global Ambassador for City Football Group, advising across the group’s clubs including Girona, New York City, and Troyes. The move cements a continuing relationship with CFG’s network while he is linked to possible future national-team coaching roles, with tributes and a forthcoming statue planned at the Etihad.

Furore over 'roaming pocong' rumours in Tangerang spreads to West Jakarta

Public alarm over alleged roaming pocong in Tangerang has spread to neighbouring West Jakarta, prompting police investigations and cautions against misinformation. Officials said no substantiated incidents have been found; in Ciputat Timur a suspected pocong turned out to be a street performer, while in Kalideres there were no reports of such sightings. Authorities urged the public to verify information before sharing on social media.

Rupiah Breaks Through Rp17,700 per US$ and CAD at US$4 Billion, Economist Explains Causes

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to around Rp17,700 per US$ as the current account deficit for Q1 2026 widened to US$4 billion (1.1% of GDP), the largest since 2019. An economist cites a mix of global and domestic factors, including policy changes and foreign outflows, with some current account components improving and the downturn possibly temporary unless the rupiah weakness persists.

DPD RI Agrees to Form Special Committee on Papua Conflict and Humanitarian Issues

The Indonesian regional legislature, DPD RI, has agreed to establish a Special Committee (Pansus) to handle the Papua conflict and humanitarian issues. The decision was made during the 10th Plenary Session in Jakarta on 22 May 2026, following discussions on the previous day; the committee aims to pursue humane, dialogic solutions, protect civilians, uphold human rights, and accelerate social recovery and welfare in Papua.

Metro Jaya Police Begal-Hunting Team Arrests 173 Street-Crime Suspects Across May 2026

Over the three weeks from 1 May 2026, the Begal-Hunting Team of the Metro Jaya Police arrested 173 suspects linked to 127 reports of street crime. The arrests involved cases of curas, curat, and curanmor, with 38 suspects remanded at the Polda detention centre and 139 at police resort detentions. Police say 466 items were seized in 127 cases, 413 cases remain under resolution, and suspects face penalties under KUHP articles 476, 477, 479 and 306.

Power Outages Hit Riau, North Sumatra, and Aceh Tonight

Power outages have affected several areas across Sumatra, including Riau, North Sumatra, and Aceh, with Pekanbaru and Medan among the hardest hit. PLN says the disruptions are due to a system fault affecting Sumatra, causing widespread cuts around 18:50 WIB and affecting homes, street lighting, and internet connectivity. The outage occurred as residents were preparing for Maghrib prayers in Aceh.

Gen Z Warned About the Dangers of Online Loans

A Jakarta-based event brings together students and industry to address rising online lending and impulsive shopping among young people. Experts warn about debt traps and psychological manipulation by digital platforms, urging responsible use of technology and stronger financial literacy. The programme, organised by Al-Azhar Indonesia University with Japelidi, ASPIKOM and Trimegah Sekuritas, also introduces investment basics and self-control to foster prudent financial behaviour.

Imran Nahumarury vows to stay with Semen Padang

Imran Nahumarury, Semen Padang's coach, remains with the club despite relegation to the Liga Championship. He emphasised his commitment, while the team faces off-field financial difficulties as they wind up the season with a final Super League match against Persija.

In 22 days, the Metro Jaya Regional Police uncovered 127 street-crime cases and arrested 173 suspects

Over a 22-day period from 1 May to 22 May 2026, the Metro Jaya Regional Police, alongside its district police, disclosed 127 police reports linked to street crime and announced the arrest of 173 suspects. The offences cited were theft with aggravating circumstances (curat), motor vehicle theft (curanmor), and robbery with violence (curas). The briefing, led by Public Relations Head Kombes Pol Budi Hermanto, outlined the scale of street crime in Jakarta during the period.

Red Dwarf Radiation Suspected of Eroding the Atmosphere of a Sub-Neptune Planet

Red dwarf stars emit intense radiation, which can strip away the atmospheres of nearby sub-Neptune exoplanets, leaving rocky cores. Studies using Kepler and TESS data show atmospheric mass loss is a primary factor, with rare survivors possibly having very thick atmospheres or protective icy layers; insights help target future habitable-zone searches.

Security forces kill 23 terrorists in north-west Pakistan

The Pakistani military reports that 23 terrorists were killed in intelligence-led operations in North Waziristan and Bannu, with weapons, ammunition and a large cache of explosives recovered and underground tunnels and bunkers destroyed. The ISPR says the operations illustrate ongoing, intensified counter-terrorism efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and that law-enforcement agencies will continue to act to eradicate terrorism.

Indonesia, UK discuss strengthening halal supply chain

BPJPH chief Ahmad Haikal Hasan said talks with BritCham covered Indonesia’s halal product assurance system (JPH) and the broader drive to embed a robust halal ecosystem to support global trade. He argued that halal is a customer-satisfaction issue rather than a barrier, and that establishing halal assurance adds value and competitiveness for Indonesian goods in the world market. The meeting, described as a strategic dialogue between regulators and multinational firms to support mandatory halal certification, stressed gradual implementation and ongoing engagement with business to ensure certainty and sustainability; BritCham Indonesia welcomed the openness to dialogue and input from the field, with involvement from the British Embassy.

Turn Your Dream Home, Car and Holiday into Reality at the BRI Consumer Expo Jakarta 2026

BRI Consumer Expo 2026 will run 22–24 May at JICC as a one-stop financial and lifestyle expo, offering preferential rates for housing (BRI KPR) and vehicles (BRI KKB) and travel-related promotions. The event includes a Travel Fair, BRImo and BRI Tabungan activations, and entertainment with top Indonesian artists, supported by BRIFinance, Pegadaian, BRINS, and other BRI subsidiaries.

Jogja Financial Festival Promotes Awareness of Digital Assets and Love Scams

At Jogja Financial Festival 2026 in Yogyakarta, policymakers and experts urged prudent personal finance and warned about digital-asset risks, including impersonation and love scams. OJK officials emphasised youth financial education and licensing checks for crypto assets, while Bank Indonesia announced the PIDI centre to train digital talent, with thousands of participants involved.

Development of the Food Estate in South Papua Seen as Important for Long-Term Food Sovereignty

Indonesia regards the Wanam food estate project as central to long-term food sovereignty, with plans for one million hectares of new paddy fields. A deputy speaker of Parliament's Commission IV argues the project will bolster resilience and reduce dependence on imports, while researchers stress that it is a long-term strategic priority that must continue despite opposition.

Teenager in East Jakarta Slashed with a Machete After Shouting 'Oi'

An 18-year-old was attacked with a machete in Pekayon, Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta, after allegedly shouting 'Oi' at two youths on a motorbike. The suspects, NE and DS, aged 18, were arrested within 24 hours; the victim is in non-critical condition and receiving treatment. The suspects face charges under Article 466 (and Article 20 KUHP) with up to five years' imprisonment.

Torture of Indonesian Nationals by Israel Must Be Reported to the ICC

Indonesian DPR Commission I member Syamsu Rizal urged that nine Indonesian citizens tortured by Israeli forces during the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 be referred to the International Criminal Court (ICC), and called for international support to condemn the actions as war crimes or crimes against humanity. He also proposed domestic Ad Hoc Human Rights Court proceedings that could inform ICC processes; the nine had been released and flown to Istanbul, but there are confirmed reports of abuse in detention.

PT Timah and Perminas Step Up Downstream Processing of Critical Minerals

PT Timah and Perminas have signed a conditional framework to advance the downstream processing of tin slag and rare earth elements in the Bangka Belitung Islands, aligning with Indonesia's drive to boost downstream production and strengthen national mineral sovereignty. The agreement, supported by the government, aims to move beyond rhetoric with tangible, sustainable steps to add value to strategic minerals.

China has never barred technology firms from receiving foreign investment

China's top economic planning body says openness remains a core policy and that tech firms have not been required to shun foreign investment; foreign investment must comply with laws and not threaten national interests, as Beijing plans to continue enforcing the Foreign Investment Law and improve the business environment.

MSC engages Indonesian experts to discuss sustainable octopus management

MSC has involved three Indonesian experts in an international workshop in Málaga, Spain, on sustainable octopus fishery management. The event, funded by the Ocean Stewardship Fund, brought together researchers, policymakers and industry players to discuss stock assessment, monitoring, governance models and Harvest Strategy. Indonesia's involvement highlights ongoing learning and collaboration to strengthen data-driven, community-based management of octopus fisheries.

Meta Indonesia Adopts 13+ Film Rating Standard for Teen Instagram Accounts

Meta Indonesia has updated the Teen Account feature on Instagram, applying an age-based 13+ film rating to limit content and strengthen parental controls. Public Policy head Berni Moestafa said the update addresses parental concerns about unknown contact, inappropriate content, and screen time, with a new Limited Content option for stricter controls; the rollout builds on eight months of positive feedback from Indonesia.

AMD Launches Advanced AI Processors, See Which Laptop Brands Include Them

AMD has unveiled the Ryzen AI 400 Series and Ryzen AI Max+ 392 in Indonesia, advancing mobile AI with a Zen 5-based design and second-generation AMD XDNA NPUs. The 400 Series offers up to 12 CPU cores, integrated Radeon 800M graphics, and aims for longer battery life across mainstream to gaming laptops, with first shipments in Q1 2026 from brands such as Acer, ASUS, HP, GIGABYTE and Lenovo. The Max+ 392 targets ultra-thin premium notebooks with AI acceleration and enhanced Copilot+ performance for creative workloads and immersive gaming while preserving portability.

5,000th Public EV Charging Station inaugurated at Tanjung Priok (SPKLU)

PLN inaugurated the 5,000th Public EV Charging Station (SPKLU) at Tanjung Priok, marking a significant expansion of Indonesia's EV charging network. The hub features multiple charging capacities, two‑wheeler charging and battery‑swapping facilities, plus user‑friendly amenities, underscoring efforts to boost public trust in electric transport and support the government’s net‑zero emissions targets.

Total Blackout Hits Aceh to Riau, PLN Explains

A mass electricity outage affected areas from Aceh to Riau on Friday night, 22 May 2026. PLN said technical teams were deployed to investigate and restore supply after the Northern Sumatra and Central Sumatra systems were separated around 18:44 WIB, causing a total blackout in the north. Updates will be provided via the PLN Mobile app and PLN 123.

Scientists Discover the 'Sea T. rex', a 13-Metre Giant Mosasaur

A new mosasaur species, Tylosaurus rex, is reported to have reached about 13.2 metres in length with a stronger neck and jaw, suggesting a predatory marine apex. The findings, supported by fossil evidence including intraspecific injuries, were described in the Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History, marking a dramatic addition to Late Cretaceous marine life.

Looking for a Career Opportunity? Sampoerna Opens Booth at Jogja Financial Festival

PT HM Sampoerna Tbk (HMSP), through Sampoerna Career, showcased career opportunities at Jogja Financial Festival 2026, offering internships and development programmes and providing on-site CV consultations and a QR-enabled job portal. The booth also hosted AI-powered photobooth and invited attendees to share ideas about their ideal working environment to attract fresh graduates and students.

Bekasi Timur Train Crash: KNKT Says Electric Taxi Was in Normal Condition

The National Transport Safety Committee (KNKT) has found no technical fault in the Green SM electric taxi involved in the Bekasi Timur crossing crash prior to the incident. Findings presented at a DPR Commission V joint hearing show the first collision involved the taxi and a KRL Commuter Line, followed by a second collision that left 16 dead and dozens injured. The KNKT noted that the reason for the transmission shifting to neutral remains unknown as the vehicle approached the crossing.

From Upstream to Downstream, Jakarta Provincial Government Strengthens Integrated Waste Management System

The Jakarta provincial government is expanding its integrated waste management system from household sorting to Refuse-Derived Fuel technology, aiming to reduce waste sent to Bantargebang. RDF facilities like RDF Rorotan have high processing capacity but are currently underutilised, with a target to reach 1,000 tonnes per day by end-2026, while community waste banks and household sorting are being promoted.

CitraGarden City unveils three-storey shophouses with rooftop lake view at Solea Terrace

CitraGarden City has launched Solea Terrace, a three-storey shophouse development on Sunset Avenue, West Jakarta, featuring a rooftop terrace with lake and sunset views. All units overlook the lake and main boulevard, targeting lifestyle operators such as cafes and lounges, with upgrades including a five-metre width and a multifunction layout, plus double parking and EV charging. The project is slated for handover in 2026 and ready for business in 2027, as part of Sunset Avenue's expanding lifestyle ecosystem.

Gaza Flotilla Activists' Testimony: Tortured and Humiliated by Israeli Forces

Activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla allege routine abuses by Israeli forces after deportation to Istanbul, including beatings, sexual harassment, and the use of non-lethal weapons, with corroborating testimonies from several witnesses. Israeli officials deny the claims, prompting scepticism among observers and comments from Indonesian officials monitoring the case.

Airlangga: IHSG in the green today; market correction a normal occurrence

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto said the IHSG finished in the green today and described the market correction as a normal development after issuers exited rating agencies. He denied that the correction was driven by the formation of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) or a deficit trade balance. The index rose 67.11 points (1.10%) to 6,162.05, with energy and basic materials leading gains and the financial sector easing.

Ilham Habibie Urges National Reindustrialisation, Here Is His Explanation

PII chairman Ilham Akbar Habibie argues that national reindustrialisation is a key remedy to the country's deindustrialisation, calling for a more circular, sustainable, and human-centric approach. He criticises the government’s emphasis on downstream processing and urges engineers to lead in infrastructure, energy transformation, digitalisation, and defence and food industries, with IKN seen as a living laboratory for nationwide reform.

Semeru Volcano Erupts This Evening, Residents Urged to Exercise Caution

Semeru erupted on Friday evening, producing a pyroclastic flow; a seismogram recorded a maximum amplitude of 22 mm and a duration of around 5 minutes 15 seconds. Authorities have raised the alert to Level III (Alert) and urged residents to stay clear of the 13 km southeast sector along Besuk Kobokan and to refrain from activities within 5 km of the crater, with ongoing vigilance for ash clouds, lava surges and lahars along Besuk Kobokan and other nearby rivers up to 17 km from the summit.

Thousands of PD BKK Klaten Depositors Lodge Complaint with the Indonesian DPR

Depositors' representatives claim about 6,854 individuals are owed around Rp152 billion after PD BKK Klaten halted operations in June 2025. They met with Soedeson Tandra of Commission III to seek DPR assistance; Tandra urged local authorities to resolve the matter under existing laws and consider releasing funds through a Local Regulation (Perda) as a procedural route. The issue is to be escalated to a formal DPR session for national attention.

Minister Brian Yuliarto Urges Campus Research to Drive National Development

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Brian Yuliarto has urged universities to strengthen research as the key to boosting Indonesia’s global competitiveness, emphasising strategic university-industry-government-society collaboration. He also highlighted the drive to turn research into practical innovations aligned with Indonesia Emas 2045, and noted the Belajaraya Jakarta 2026 education festival.

BTN collaborates with KAI to provide KPR for 5,400 new TOD housing units

BTN and KAI are joining forces to provide KPR for 5,400 new TOD housing units in Manggarai, Kiaracondong, Gubeng, and Semarang, integrated with public transport as part of the Government's 3 Million Homes Programme. The collaboration marks TOD-based urban housing development across strategic Indonesian cities, backed by both state-owned enterprises to tackle urbanisation and land scarcity.

Former KPK Chief Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison, Here’s the Case

A Tunisian court has sentenced Chawki Tabib, a former head of the national anti-corruption authority, to 10 years in prison for document forgery and the possession and use of forged documents. The verdict forms part of broader political and legal tensions under President Kais Saied, following Tabib’s role in anti-corruption reforms and a dispute with former Prime Minister Elyes Fakhfakh.

222 MBG Kitchens Completed, Asset Transfer to the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Underway

The Indonesian government has completed 222 MBG kitchens nationwide as Nutrition Service Units, with asset transfer from the Public Works Ministry to the National Nutrition Agency ongoing. Buildings come in two sizes (10x20 metres and 20x20 metres), determined by service capacity, and inauguration awaits presidential direction.

TPNPB-OPM Accuses the Military of Bomb-Delivering Drones in Nduga

The Papua separatist group TPNPB-OPM claims the Indonesian military carried out a drone-bomb strike against the TPNPB Yuguru Battalion headquarters in Nduga, Papua Highlands, on 18 May 2026, killing a member named Engenpi Gwijangge. The report, relayed by Yuguru Battalion Commander Mayor Yibet Gwijangge, prompted the group to declare national mourning for Engenpi, described as the son of the battalion commander. Tempo has been seeking confirmation from military spokespeople, but as of this report there was no response. The TNI previously denied that drones were used as weapons, stating they were used only for reconnaissance.

Power Outages in Sumatra, PLN Urges Public Not to Panic

PLN is investigating a fault in Sumatra's electricity system after widespread outages, including North Sumatra, beginning at 18:44 WIB. The utility says engineers are on the ground conducting thorough checks to restore power and identify the cause, and it has urged the public to stay calm, with updates provided via the PLN Mobile app and the PLN 123 Contact Centre.

GRIB Jaya Responds After Hercules Is Reported to Police by Writer's Daughter in Depok

GRIB Jaya has rebutted a police report filed by Ilma Sani Fitriana, the daughter of writer Ahmad Bahar, against GRIB Jaya's chairman Rosario de Marshall, known as Hercules, with Polda Metro Jaya. The organisation says the allegations of detention are unfounded and that Hercules is a humane figure who only offered guidance; the piece also notes alleged phone hacking and a later amicable settlement in Depok.

Ciputat Residents Spooked by Pocong Busker Late at Night

Residents of Ciputat Timur, South Tangerang, were startled by a busker cosplaying as a 'pocong', reportedly seen around 11:30 p.m. on Jalan Haji Gadung Raya and Jalan Elpiji Raya. A resident, Boim (45), said there were two pocong figures who turned out to be a street performer, and others only learned of the incident from news reports.

Medan prosecutors' extortion case against contractor in Kupang reported to the Attorney General's Office and the DPR

An alleged extortion case involving a Medan Kajari and a contractor in Kupang has been officially reported to Indonesia's Attorney General's Office and to Commission III of the DPR. The complaint, filed by the contractor's lawyer and his brother, cites WhatsApp exchanges and a Rp 6.7 million hotel payment as evidence, and calls for the implicated prosecutor to be removed and for ethical and potential criminal proceedings to follow.

Ethics Council of the Ombudsman RI requests information from selection panel for Ombudsman RI 2026-2031

The Ethics Council of the Ombudsman RI in Indonesia has requested information from the Ombudsman RI's 2026-2031 selection panel as part of an inquiry into alleged ethical violations and the conduct of acting Ombudsman Hery Susanto, who has been named as a suspect by the Attorney General's Office in a case linked to nickel mining governance. The chairs and members of the selection panel provided statements in Jakarta on Friday, 22 May 2026.

Gaza Flotilla activists reveal torture and sexual harassment by Israeli forces

Hundreds of humanitarian activists on the Global Sumud Flotilla report being subjected to rubber bullets, beatings and sexual violence while in Israeli custody; footage of Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir overseeing abuses drew global condemnation, with several European governments summoning Israel's envoy. Indonesian participants were among those detained and later released, highlighting ongoing tensions over Gaza blockade.

Ministry Tightens Allocation of Hajj Pilgrim Tents in Arafah

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah tightens tent allocation in Arafah ahead of the Hajj peak to ensure fair, orderly, and safe service for pilgrims. The move includes tent naming and segmentation by flight group, with strict penalties for rule-breakers and ongoing oversight of Armuzna arrangements.

MPR Speaker: Release of Indonesian citizens from Israeli detention proves the state is present

Deputy Speaker of the MPR Eddy Soeparno says the release of Indonesian citizens detained by Israeli authorities demonstrates that the state is present in protecting its people abroad. He lauded President Prabowo Subianto, Foreign Minister Sugiono, and the Foreign Ministry for swift, precise diplomacy, and condemned Israel's actions as violating international law. He urged caution in humanitarian actions amid the Gaza conflict and prayed for peace and dignity for Palestinians.

South Aceh Regency Distributes President's Beef Aid

The South Aceh Regency distributed beef aid packages from President Prabowo Subianto to residents affected by flooding ahead of Eid al-Adha 1447 AH. The distribution focused on the Kluet Raya disaster-affected area, covering Kluet Utara, Kluet Selatan and Kluet Tengah, with a total of 4,090 beef packages distributed across 52 villages in 12 districts.

PLN: Total power outage in central and northern Sumatra

PLN reports a total blackout across Sumatra's central and northern regions following a system disturbance, effective from about 18:45 WIB on Friday. The company says engineers are inspecting the grid while authorities urge residents to stay calm; updates will be provided via the PLN Mobile app and the PLN 123 hotline. In Pekanbaru and surrounding areas, outages have disrupted buildings and traffic signals, with hot weather exacerbating discomfort.

Power Outages Hit Several Areas in Sumatra on Friday Night, PLN Speaks Out

A number of areas in Sumatra experienced power outages on Friday night, including Jambi, West Sumatra, North Sumatra and Aceh. PLN says it is conducting a fault investigation and has deployed technical teams to inspect the electrical system, with updates to be issued via the PLN Mobile app and the PLN 123 Contact Centre services.

Indonesia's Kopi Luwak Industry Maintains Quality on the Global Stage

Indonesia's Kopi Luwak sector, led by Worcas Group, reaffirms its commitment to quality and heritage as it positions kopi Luwak on the world stage, including a plan for full export functions by January 2027 and closer ties with global partners such as Starbucks. The industry emphasises improvements across the supply chain and highlights upcoming Jakarta Coffee Week.

BRI Consumer Expo 2026: Explore Promo Offers on Home Loans, Vehicles, and Holidays

BRI launched the BRI Consumer Expo 2026 in Jakarta, running 22–24 May 2026, to showcase financing promotions for housing, vehicles, travel, and lifestyle within an integrated service ecosystem. The event highlights favourable rates, including a home loan from 1.75% fixed for one year and vehicle credit from 1.59% for one year, plus cashback offers and travel packages. It is part of BRI's strategy to expand its consumer banking reach and strengthen its ecosystem.

Cooking Oil and Plastic Prices Rise, Pasar Baru Bekasi Traders Lament Drastic Fall in Turnover

Traders at Pasar Baru in East Bekasi report sharp rises in cooking oil and plastic bag prices, with plastics up from Rp 9,000 to Rp 15,000 and carrying bags from Rp 12,000 to Rp 20,000. The price increases have eroded consumer purchasing power, with typical shopping baskets shrinking from Rp 500,000 to around Rp 200,000 and from Rp 1 million to about Rp 300,000. Trader Sulastri says turnover has fallen by up to 75 percent as more shoppers shift to online shopping.

Indonesia and South Korea sign MoU to develop AI for public services

Indonesia and South Korea have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on AI for public administration and digital government. The agreement will underpin policy dialogue, technical cooperation, and capacity-building, and supports Indonesia's planned OECD accession. The two countries emphasise ongoing exchanges of best practices to accelerate reforms that bring faster, simpler services to citizens.

Floods and Landslides Hit Three Regencies in North Sumatra

Heavy rainfall on 20-21 May 2026 triggered floods and landslides across three North Sumatran regencies—Tapanuli Utara, Pakpak Bharat and Padanglawas Utara. The floods damaged farmland and homes, while roads were cut by landslides; several sites require heavy machinery to clear, with no casualties reported.

Purbaya Believes IHSG Could Break Through 8,000, Says Many Stocks Are Undervalued

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expresses confidence that the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) can surpass 8,000 as domestic fundamentals improve. He notes profitability gains could lift market sentiment and argues that several stocks are currently undervalued, urging markets not to overreact to fluctuations while the government continues to bolster the economy.

Survey: More than one in three TikTok users in Indonesia are interested in museums

TikTok has launched the Museum Insights Report 2026, showing that in Indonesia more than one in three TikTok users are interested in museums and 51% are interested in history. The report notes museums are reaching new audiences through pop culture, humour, and authentic formats on TikTok, with creators acting as curators and narrators. TikTok also announced a Museum Tour to celebrate International Museum Day, visiting the Museum Tekstil in Jakarta and illustrating how the platform’s digital space helps build loyal museum communities.

INDY Through Subsidiaries Establishes PT Electra Jaringan Indonesia

Indika Energy, through its two subsidiaries Ilectra Motor Group (IMG) and Electra Distribusi Indonesia (EDI), has established a new subsidiary, PT Electra Jaringan Indonesia (EJI), to operate in electricity distribution and sales. EJI is 99% owned by IMG and 1% by EDI, with an initial capital of Rp100 million; approvals from the Ministry of Law and Human Rights were received, and the subsidiary's financials will be consolidated into the parent. Indika's management says the move will not adversely affect operations, legally, financially, or the group's viability.

Testimony of Gaza Flotilla Activists: Israel Treats Its Animals Better

Activists from the Gaza Flotilla recount brutal treatment by Israeli forces when intercepting aid ships in international waters, including beatings, shackling, and insults. Turkish activist Bilal Kitay claims the troops treated their 'animals better', while Belgian activist Julien Cabral describes serious injuries and days of detention; Turkey has evacuated hundreds of those aboard. The report also highlights broader allegations of systematic abuse against humanitarian volunteers and ongoing calls to continue aid convoys.

Persib Bandung Aiming for the Title as Cimahi Police Deploy 300 Officers to Secure Bobotoh Convoys

Cimahi Police deploy 300 officers ahead of a decisive Persib Bandung match that could clinch the 2025/2026 Super League title. Security will concentrate on strategic transport corridors linking Cimahi, Bandung and Bandung Barat and will monitor convoys of Bobotoh supporters, with authorities urging respectful celebration and warning against anarchic acts.

Komdigi Blocks Polymarket in Indonesia, Labeled Crypto‑Based Online Gambling

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has blocked access to Polymarket, a blockchain‑based prediction market platform, on the grounds that it constitutes online gambling. Authorities are also reviewing Polymarket’s affiliated social media accounts to extend the restrictions, as the platform has already faced blockages in several Asian and other countries.

SBI posts net profit of Rp101.89 billion in Q1 2026

PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia Tbk (SBI) reported a net profit of Rp101.89 billion in Q1 2026 as it navigates a competitive cement market and rising energy costs. Revenue rose to Rp2.56 trillion with EBITDA up 14.3% to Rp358 billion, supported by higher volumes and strong cost discipline, though energy pressures persist; the company targets margins above 6% in 2026 amid ongoing efficiency efforts.

Power Outages Across Sumatra Prompt PLN to Deploy Technical Team

PLN has reported power outages across Sumatra, beginning at 18:44 WIB, affecting areas including Medan. The utility says a technical team is investigating and working to restore supply. Authorities are urging residents to remain calm as restoration work continues.

Detours on Several Jakarta Roads on 24 May 2026, Check the Locations

The Jakarta Department of Transportation (Dishub) will implement situational traffic management on several Jakarta roads on Sunday, 24 May 2026, due to a Fun Run marking Lemhannas RI's 61st anniversary that overlaps with the car-free day. The plan runs from 06:00 to 08:00 WIB and includes details of affected points and parking capacity (1,195 SRP for cars and 2,210 SRP for motorcycles) as announced on Dishub's Instagram.

Purbaya defends economic outlook, denies 'over-optimism'

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya defended the 2026 economic outlook as calculated rather than over-optimistic, citing robust momentum in Q1 2026. He pointed to 5.61% annual growth driven by household consumption, private investment and accelerating government spending, with the budget deficit held at 0.64% of GDP as of 30 April. He also announced cross-ministry steps to improve the domestic investment climate and a task force to fast-track regulatory bottlenecks, arguing these measures underpin continued investor confidence and coordination between fiscal, monetary and financial policy.

IKN investment reaches Rp72 trillion – SDGs News

Investor confidence in Indonesia’s new capital project, the Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN), is underscored by total investments reaching Rp72.39 trillion, with both private and public funding. The development signals Nusantara’s emergence as a future centre of economic growth, with cross-border and domestic investors participating across housing, infrastructure and services.

Mount Semeru erupts with pyroclastic flow

Mount Semeru, towering 3,676 metres above sea level, erupted on Friday night, accompanied by a pyroclastic flow, though the height of the ash plume could not be observed due to fog. The eruption was recorded on a seismogram with a maximum amplitude of 22 mm and a duration of about 5 minutes 15 seconds, and authorities have placed Level III (Siaga) with restrictions within 13 kilometres of the summit and 500 metres along Besuk Kobokan, warning of further hazards along river valleys.

Pasar Rebo Police Arrest Two Suspects in Motorcycle Theft at Gandaria Petrol Station

East Jakarta police thwarted an attempted motorcycle theft at Gandaria petrol station, arresting two men identified as S (42) and R alias M (43). Investigations are ongoing into possible links to other thefts, with charges filed under the Indonesian Penal Code. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about street-level crime in the Pasar Rebo area.

Viral Sighting of a Suspected Pocong in Lamongan Stirs Residents

A circulating video shows a figure wrapped in white cloth standing in a dimly lit residential alley in Tumenggungan, Lamongan. The footage, reportedly captured at night from in front of a resident's house, has sparked discussions in the local RT about a possible pocong sighting, though its veracity remains unverified. One resident, Faisol, said he was surprised by the sighting, which he says was captured outside his house at around 2.00 a.m. on Friday 22 May.

Ten Effects of Inadequate Rest on the Body

The article explains what constitutes inadequate rest and summarises the health implications of sleep deprivation – from fatigue and poor concentration to weakened immunity and higher blood pressure – and stresses that sleep quality matters as much as duration. It also cites guidelines from alodokter and ayosehat, noting adults should aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night.

Collaboration with Airlines Opens New Opportunities for Businesses to Reach Tourists

Airlines are partnering with lifestyle and culinary brands to enrich the travel experience in Indonesia, notably Pelita Air's PASplus, which offers exclusive benefits at cafés such as Café del Mar Bali and Eksposed Cafe Makassar simply by presenting a boarding pass. The partnerships aim to boost exposure and customer loyalty for partners while expanding the airline's value proposition for travellers.

Panic over roaming 'pocong' and machete-wielding 'pocong' turns out to be hoax

Residents in the Tangerang Raya area and parts of Jakarta were unsettled by rumours of roaming pocong and a pocong armed with a machete, which police later confirmed as a hoax. Investigations found no sightings and suggested the stories originated from social media posts and a cosplay busker. Authorities urged the public to verify information before sharing online.

Indonesia blocks Polymarket in attempts to eradicate online gambling

Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Affairs Ministry has blocked access to Polymarket, alleging it operates online gambling under the guise of a prediction market. The ministry says such activities involve betting on uncertain outcomes and violate Indonesian law, and will extend blocks to similar platforms to protect the public and the digital ecosystem. It notes other countries have restricted or blocked Polymarket, underscoring a global trend in regulating prediction markets.

Total Power Outage Across Riau, West Sumatra, North Sumatra and Aceh

A large-scale power outage affected areas across Sumatra on Friday 22 May 2026, including Aceh, West Sumatra, the Riau Islands, North Sumatra and Riau. PLN said the fault separated the North Sumatra and Central Sumatra systems, leaving North Sumatra completely offline, with restoration efforts under way and data on affected load still being collected.

Loud Music Until Dawn: Labuan Bajo Residents Call for Karaoke Regulation

Residents in Labuan Bajo, Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) have complained about loud karaoke music from a local venue disturbing their sleep. Police say they will follow up, including checking business permits and crowd-control licenses, and coordinate with local authorities to enforce operating hours and volume limits.

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, BANDUNG – Keluarga jurnalis Republika, Thoudy Badai Rifanbillah, terharu setelah memastikan putra kebanggannya selamat setelah sempat ditahan otoritas militer Israel saat meliput misi kemanusiaan Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF) 2.0. Ibunda Thoudy, Hany Hanifa Humanisa, mengatakan kepastian itu didapat setelah keluarga melakukan telepon video langsung pada Kamis (21/5/2026) malam sekitar pukul 21.30 WIB.

Economist: Centralising SDA Exports Could Risk Pressing the Rupiah

Indonesia's plan to centralise export of strategic natural-resource commodities through the new Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) could bolster foreign exchange reserves and the central bank's room for intervention, but economists warn the policy could inject short‑term uncertainty and weigh on the rupiah if not executed with clear timelines and transparency. The move would see SDA exports by private firms handed to the state-directed DSI, with potential implications for investor sentiment and exchange-rate dynamics unless prices remain competitive for buyers.

SBY-Era Economic Officials Invited by Prabowo to the Presidential Palace to Discuss 2008 Crisis

Prabowo Subianto hosted former economic officials from the SBY era to draw on their experiences in handling the 2008 financial crisis, at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on 22 May 2026. Attendees included former Bank Indonesia governor Burhanuddin Abdullah, and former Bappenas officials Paskah Suzetta and Lukita Dinarsyah Tuwo; discussions touched on inflation, exchange-rate volatility, and macroprudential considerations, with a view to Indonesia's current stronger fundamentals.

China Dominates Indonesia's Waste-to-Energy Tender Again - Jakarta Globe

China-backed firms again dominate Indonesia's latest wave of waste-to-energy tenders, with projects in Bekasi, Bogor Raya, and Denpasar Raya progressing as work begins. Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund Danantara has expanded the prequalification list to 85 entities for the second stage, and many bidders form consortia with local partners; non-Chinese players such as Samsung E&A and Veolia are also participating. The government defends the selection process as transparent and competitive, amid ongoing Chinese investment in Indonesia’s energy and infrastructure.

Tearful relief for family of photojournalist Thoudy Badai after his release from Israeli detention

Indonesian photojournalist Thoudy Badai Rifanbillah has been confirmed safe after being detained by Israeli military authorities during the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 mission. He is currently in Turkey undergoing administrative processing and medical checks before repatriation to Indonesia, with his family praising the Indonesian government for swift diplomacy.

Indonesia books Rp56 trillion in mineral and coal state revenue - ANTARA News

Indonesia has earned Rp56 trillion (about US$3.1 billion) in non-tax state revenue from the mineral and coal sector as of May 15, up 6.21% from the previous year, according to the Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry. The gains come as five of 14 planned smelters are already operational under the national downstreaming program, with projects including nickel, bauxite, iron, and copper facilities and a US$7.8 billion investment tally. Officials say the smelter program is laying the groundwork for a domestic mineral-processing industry, though completion of the remaining nine smelters and ongoing regulatory safeguards remain priorities.

Bogor Police uncover energy-subsidy mafia costing the state Rp12.5 billion

Bogor Police uncovered seven cases of subsidised fuel and subsidised LPG misuse, plus two illegal gold mining cases, in April–May 2026, involving 15 suspects and potentially costing the state Rp12.5 billion. The operation highlights weaknesses in energy-subsidy governance and depicts modus operandi including the use of multiple barcodes and illicit distribution, with cooperation from local authorities and Pertamina.

PLN EPI signs four gas and LNG sale and purchase agreements

PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) signed four long-term gas and LNG sale-and-purchase agreements with domestic and international oil and gas players to secure reliable primary energy supplies for power generation and support a gas-based transition. The deals include two LNG sale-and-purchase agreements and two PJBGs, with a total transaction value of around Rp360 trillion.

Terrifying! What’s on board the USS Nimitz deployed to the Caribbean

The United States has deployed the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz to the Caribbean, confirmed by SOUTHCOM, alongside Carrier Air Wing 17, the destroyer USS Gridley and the logistics ship USNS Patuxent, amid U.S. pressure on Cuba. The Nimitz, the oldest carrier still in active service, exemplifies the Navy’s ability to project air power from the sea. With a crew of about 5,680 and a potential air wing of up to 90 aircraft, it functions as a floating base as part of a carrier strike group.

Why Are Prices of Chillies, Onions, and Chicken Meat Rising in Jakarta? Explanation from the Jakarta KPKP Office

Prices of several staple foods in Jakarta have risen due to adverse weather and a seasonal surge in demand ahead of Eid al-Adha. Jakarta's KPKP says week III of April 2026 saw price increases of over 1% for horticultural products and chicken, linked to weather-related declines in production and harvest quality, and to seasonal demand for chicken meat.

BKN Recommendation Letter Issued, Tangsel Regional Secretary Position Extended

The South Tangerang City Government confirms that the administrative process related to the evaluation of the Regional Secretary's tenure has been completed, with the BKN issuing a recommendation and appointment to extend the post. This provides strong legal certainty and supports good governance, while political debate over civil service reforms continues.

KA Sangkuriang Becomes a Mainstay for Tourists Heading to East Java's Easternmost Region

KA Sangkuriang, operating the Bandung–Ketapang Banyuwangi route, launched on 2 May 2026 and has quickly attracted demand, with 8,732 passengers in the first 20 days of operation from Daop 9. During 13–17 May holidays it was the leading commercial train by passenger numbers in Daop 9 Jember, underscoring strong appetite for safe, timely, affordable rail travel.

UMI Donates Rp500 Million to Fuzhou Mosque in China

UMI has donated Rp500 million through the Wakaf UMI Foundation to Fuzhou Mosque in China, as part of a humanitarian gesture and to strengthen global Muslim solidarity. The donation accompanies a delegation's efforts to boost scholarly ties with Minjiang University and Ruijie Networks, and includes a pathway for Chinese Muslim students to study at UMI via the Fuzhou Mosque. The initiative underscores UMI's view of the campus as a platform for humanitarian outreach and cross-border collaboration.

Jambi Police Destroy 20 kg of Methamphetamine and Tens of Thousands of Ecstasy Tablets, Save 126,000 Lives

During a ceremony at the Jambi Regional Police Headquarters on 21 May 2026, authorities destroyed narcotics evidence and announced the Jambi Anti-Drugs Movement, with Governor Al Haris in attendance. The operation destroyed 20 kilograms of methamphetamine, about 9.1 kilograms of ecstasy tablets (20,241 tablets) and 4,332.5 millilitres of etomidate from three cases involving six suspects, and the police claim it saved 126,391 lives and prevented large potential losses.

Ministry of Trade to safeguard the smooth export of ready-to-eat food products for Hajj

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade, via the Trade Attaché in Riyadh, says it will continue to safeguard the smooth export of ready-to-eat meals to Saudi Arabia for the 1447 Hijri Hajj season. The move aims to accelerate the issuance of Certificates of Origin Form B, shorten SFDA testing, and speed Saudi customs clearance, facilitating nearly 360,000 portions already prepared for the Holy Sites. With around 180 Indonesian ready-to-eat products certified halal and health certified, the initiative underpins a robust supply for pilgrims and strengthens Indonesian halal food presence in Saudi Arabia.

Ombudsman Ethics Board Probes Hery Susanto as Selection Panel Admits Oversight

Indonesia's Ombudsman Ethics Board is examining Hery Susanto after he was named a suspect in a corruption case by the Attorney General's Office. The Selection Panel for 2026-2031 admitted it had overlooked Susanto's prior legal record, despite vetting him with agencies such as KPK, PPATK and BIN, and noting concerns about his personality rather than integrity. The case relates to alleged bribery connected to nickel mining governance from 2013 to 2025.

Cengkareng Residents Suffer Breathing Difficulties as Plastic Warehouse Fire Remains Unextinguished After Five Days

Residents in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, continue to suffer breathing difficulties as a plastic warehouse fire remains unextinguished after five days. Thick smoke has irritated eyes and prompted residents to wear masks outdoors, while air quality worsens during firefighting operations. Shopkeepers report coughing and have taken precautions, such as storing food away from public display to avoid contamination.

Residents Hindered by SLIK Mortgage Financing Can Still Own a Home — Here Is the Scheme

The Indonesian government is testing a rent-to-own scheme to help people whose credit histories (SLIK) impede access to subsidised housing. The program shortens the proof-of-payment period to six months, requires higher instalments during that period, and eases administrative rules for informal workers to widen access to KPR subsidies.

BRI Consumer Expo 2026 Offers Attractive Promotions for Homes, Vehicles and Holidays

BRI Consumer Expo 2026, held 22–24 May 2026 at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC) in Senayan, Jakarta, showcased a range of financing promotions for housing, vehicles, and travel as part of BRI's strategy to grow its consumer business. The event offered Home Ownership Credit (KPR) rates from 1.75% fixed for one year and Motor Vehicle Credit (KKB) rates from 1.59% for one year, along with travel and lifestyle promotions, interactive sessions, and celebrity appearances.

Indonesian Police Uncover Illegal Onion Syndicate From Malaysia With Rp24.9 Billion Turnover

Indonesian investigators say a cross-border onion smuggling ring, believed to originate from Malaysia, had been operating for about a year and was turning over an estimated Rp 24.96 billion annually. Police seized about 20.9 tonnes of illegal produce from two Bengkayang warehouses and destroyed the stock to prevent health and biosafety risks, with investigations continuing into the entry routes, distribution channels, and network members.

Demer warns Bali DPRD's TRAP Special Committee over overlapping powers

Gde Sumarjaya Linggih, known as Demer, criticises the Bali DPRD's TRAP Special Committee for focusing on KEK Kura Kura Bali at Serangan and for potentially creating overlap between central and regional authorities over forest and spatial planning policy. The piece highlights concerns about governance, implementation, and environmental safeguards in Bali's development, including forest management and investment impacts.

Eastspring Investments Indonesia: Market sentiment still shadowed by government policy direction

Market sentiment toward Indonesian equities remained cautious as the IHSG slid 3.54% to 6,094.94 at opening, amid concerns over the government’s policy direction on commodity export governance through a one-door mechanism. The policy, framed to strengthen fiscal fundamentals and protect the rupiah via state-owned Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia, is watched for its impact on market dynamics, with additional attention on currency, credit outlook, and policy implementation transparency.

US Secretary of State: There has been some progress in negotiations with Iran

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says there has been some progress in the Iran and Strait of Hormuz situation, a signal he describes as encouraging ahead of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting. He reiterates that Washington's core aim remains unchanged: Iran must not possess a nuclear weapon, and he notes that the uranium enrichment issue and Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium must be resolved.

Senegal PM: The West Wants to Forcibly Impose Homosexuality on the World

Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko denounces Western 'tyranny' and its drive to impose homosexuality, as new law penalties for same-sex relations are tightened. He urges total enforcement of the law and criticises foreign criticism, while the law doubles maximum penalties for same-sex acts and imposes prison terms for promoting or funding such relations.

GDE-Danareksa Collaboration to Implement Industrial Zones Drives Accelerated Green Economy Growth

Geo Dipa Energi (GDE) and Danareksa (Persero) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to implement green industry in Danareksa's industrial zones, with GDE to supply geothermal electricity to the Batang Industrial Zone via PLN, as a pilot for renewable energy in Indonesia's electricity system. The arrangement makes green power a supply-chain requirement for tenants, especially those exports-oriented, and positions KITB as the first site to be replicated across other Danareksa zones, accelerating the growth of Indonesia's green economy.

Two Decades of Safeguarding Minangkabau Islamic Manuscripts

Since 2006, the 'search and save' movement has uncovered a rich, distributed archive of Minangkabau Islamic manuscripts across West Sumatra’s surau. Through digitisation and documentation, about 1,300 bundles have been rescued under the DREAMSEA programme, but threats from humidity, termites, and unauthorised sales persist.

Honor tests wide foldable phone with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chip

Honor is reportedly developing a wide-folding smartphone expected to launch in the first half of 2027. The device is said to use a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 chip on a 2nm process, featuring a main display around 7.6 inches and a 5.5-inch outer screen, with hints pointing to Honor as the brand. Huawei has already released a wide foldable, while Samsung and Apple are also said to be working on similar devices.

Lestari: Parental support is crucial to curb children's social media use

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian People’s Consultative Assembly Lestari Moerdijat says parental readiness, teachers, and community involvement are key to effective policies restricting social media for under-16s. The report notes a near 48% rise in child pornography cases from 2020 to 2024 and urges widespread digital literacy to build a safe online ecosystem as part of safeguarding the nation’s future.

Video: Purbaya: The Fate of Indonesia's Economy at the Jogja Financial Festival

On the first day of the Jogja Financial Festival in Jakarta, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa signalled a policy push to strengthen the rupiah, aiming for around Rp15,000 per US dollar. The remarks came as the event hosted a range of finance and economics discussions, underscoring the government's commitment to macroeconomic management amid market expectations. More coverage is available in CNBC Indonesia's Jogja Financial Festival 2026 programme (Friday, 22 May 2026).

13 Dangers of Frequently Eating Fried Foods

Fried foods are a common part of many diets, but frequent consumption is linked to several health risks. This article outlines effects such as high cholesterol, weight gain, digestive issues, insulin sensitivity problems, and cardiovascular concerns, emphasising moderation and awareness of oil quality.

7 Habits of People with High IQs That They Often Practice Quietly

High-IQ individuals are described as quietly adjusting their lives to maximise wellbeing rather than seeking public recognition. The article cites habits such as selective use of technology, boundary-setting, and reducing exposure to excessive content, drawing on insights from YourTango and therapists Paula-Jo Husask and Terry Gaspard. It notes that while they listen to others, final decisions are guided by personal considerations rather than social validation.

Xi Jinping's Different Treatment of Trump and Putin: Who Does He Favour?

Xi Jinping hosted Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Beijing with lavish ceremonies, but his approaches differed; with Trump, Xi emphasised symbolic hospitality and diplomatic optics, while with Putin he pursued substantive, long-term cooperation resulting in over 40 bilateral agreements. The contrast underlines the divergence in China’s relations with the United States and Russia, and China’s stance on Taiwan.

Environmental Activists Campaign to Save the Citarum River at Oxbow Bojongsoang

Activists from WALHI West Java and the Citarum River Basin Community Resource Centre staged placards during the Resistance Climbing For Citarum protest at the Oxbow Bojongsoang on the Citarum River in Bandung Regency, West Java, on 22 May 2026. The action, timed for Citarum Day on 24 May, called for a review of all policy implementations under the Citarum Harum programme, arguing they have failed to bring tangible improvements as the river remains polluted with waste and litter.

Indonesia's manufacturing sector remains economy's main driver

Indonesia's manufacturing sector remains the backbone of the economy, with its GDP contribution rising from 17.92% in Q2 2022 to 19.20% in Q1 2026. Employment in manufacturing grew from 18.7 million to 20.3 million between 2021 and 2025, while the national workforce rose 11.82%, indicating continued absorption of workers; 2025 manufacturing growth reached 5.30%, higher than the national rate of 5.11%. Investment activity is robust, with 633 new production facilities announced as of April 23 this year, worth Rp418.62 trillion (US$23.66 billion) and expected to create 219,684 jobs, supported by government directives.

Academics: The Formation of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) Will Curb Under-Invoicing Practices

Academics welcome the government's plan to create PT DSI under Danantara Indonesia, arguing it could strengthen export governance and combat under-invoicing in key commodities like coal and palm oil. Experts stress the need for transparent, accountable systems and careful balance to avoid stifling private exporters, while government officials tie the move to broader measures against revenue leakage and transfer pricing abuses.

PBNU: Shariah economy seen as opportunity to absorb additional jobs in ASEAN

PBNU argues that expanding Indonesia–Malaysia ties on the Islamic economy could create jobs across Southeast Asia, notably in food production, MSMEs, and the halal industry. The plan stresses grassroots involvement and a Shariah-compliant approach to strengthen regional halal capacity and wider prosperity. Delegations from Malaysia emphasised turning regional stability into economic growth through cross-border Islamic finance and people-to-people cooperation within ASEAN.

QRIS Alipay Dinamis Opens the Door to Global Transactions for Indonesian Merchants, as BRI Launches the Service

BRI has launched the QRIS Alipay Dinamis service, enabling Indonesian merchants to accept Alipay payments in real time via BRIs EDC devices or QRIS. The offering targets cross-border trade and tourism by expanding international payment access, with dynamic QR codes enhancing security and transaction speed. BRI expects it to spur merchant growth and broaden the customer base.

Trump Media Offloads Bitcoin Worth Rp 3.62 Trillion as Investors Worry About Selling Pressure

Trump Media & Technology Group moved 2,650 Bitcoin worth US$205 million to Crypto.com, marking the second large Bitcoin outflow this year as unrealised losses reach around US$455 million. The move comes amid weak market sentiment for crypto and fading investor optimism. The company previously pursued a 'Bitcoin treasury' strategy, with significant purchases in 2025 when prices were high.

ORI candidate selection panel recommends permanent Ombudsman RI ethics council

The ORI selection panel for 2026–2031 proposes a permanent Ombudsman RI Ethics Council to prevent recurrence of issues involving the incumbent Chair Hery Susanto. It argues that a permanent ethics body would provide clearer, internal vetting data for candidates, and could improve future elections for 2031–2036. The ethics council was formed to address a corruption case involving Hery Susanto, who has been named a suspect by the Attorney General’s Office.

Prabowo Calls SBY-Era Economic Officials, What Was Discussed?

President Prabowo Subianto summoned several former government economists from the Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono era to the Presidential Palace, to discuss past crisis experiences and current macroeconomic challenges. The attendees included ex-BI governors and planning officials; they highlighted lessons from the 2008 crisis, inflation spikes, and oil-price shocks, while stressing cross-agency coordination and financial stability.

TASPEN to Transfer the Thirteenth Salary for Indonesian Civil Servants (ASN) Retirees — Check the Date

TASPEN will distribute the thirteenth salary payment and year-end allowances to Indonesian Civil Servants (ASN) retirees starting 2 June 2026, through 46 payment partners nationwide, under Presidential Regulation No. 9 of 2026. The payments are exempt from deductions and will be paid once per beneficiary; those with multiple eligibility statuses will receive the largest amount, and those who also receive pensions or allowances will receive both payments. The move supports welfare and aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita programme.

Breakthrough! Learning Finance with Stand-Up Arif Brata at Jogja Financial Festival

Arif Brata, the Makassar-born stand-up comedian, led a session at Jogja Financial Festival 2026 titled 'Financial Survival for the Young Generation', pairing jokes with practical finance lessons. The event featured officials from the Ministry of Finance's DJPPR, Bank Indonesia and OJK, and discussed financial literacy, investments and digital financial services for young people. A student from UPN Veteran Jogja praised the format, saying it made finance accessible and sparked interest in investments.

Tackling Pocong Hoax Terror: It’s Not Just About Catching the Perpetrators

Sociologist Rakhmat Hidayat argues that repeating Pocong-hoax terror will continue unless social and digital literacy is strengthened and information is verified before sharing. He calls for rapid official clarifications and proactive communication by authorities, alongside action against those who spread unease. The piece underlines the broader challenge of managing fear and sensationalism in the digital era.

Prabowo Invites Economic Officials from the SBY Era to Tap Lessons from the 2008 Crisis

President Prabowo Subianto hosted former economic ministers and central-bank officials from the Yudhoyono era at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta to glean lessons from the 2008 crisis. Attendees discussed inflation and exchange-rate volatility linked to high oil prices in 2005, with emphasis on the period 2004–2014 as a source of experience.

PRR Task Force Urges Local Governments to Maximise TKD for Disaster Mitigation in Sumatra

Indonesia's PRR Task Force has urged regional governments to prioritise the use of additional TKD funding for disaster mitigation and response in Sumatra. A total Rp 10.6 trillion has been released to Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra in staged disbursements, with the funds already channelled to municipalities via DBH, DAU, and Otsus. The task force says faster budget realisation and robust inter-regional cooperation are essential to speeding up post-disaster recovery.

TP-PKK Palu strengthens family nutrition education through the DASHAT programme

TP-PKK Palu is expanding education on family nutrition through the DASHAT programme to accelerate progress in reducing stunting. The initiative targets pregnant women, nursing mothers, infants and toddlers, promoting an affordable, balanced diet and exclusive breastfeeding as foundational health practices. It underscores the Palu government's commitment to improving public health and building a healthier, smarter generation for Indonesia's future.

Bahlil Urges Danantara to Buy Gas from Inpex Megaproject

Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has urged the Danantara Investment Management Agency to absorb gas from national strategic projects, including the Abadi Field in the Masela Block operated by Inpex Masela Ltd. The move aims to secure domestic offtake, mitigate project delays caused by global market uncertainties, and bolster Indonesia's bargaining position while accelerating upstream oil and gas investment.

Leapmotor B10 camouflage car captures attention and announces exclusive public dinner giveaway

Leapmotor Indonesia launches a camouflage Leapmotor B10 SUV campaign around Jakarta to build hype ahead of the model’s Indonesian debut. Visitors who scan a QR code on the vehicle can win a dinner for two at a five‑star hotel, worth up to Rp1.5 million. The campaign highlights Leapmotor’s smart electric vehicle in a modern, urban lifestyle context.

20th anniversary of the Yogyakarta–Central Java earthquake commemorated

The 20th anniversary commemoration highlights disaster risk reduction through a pentahelix approach involving government, academics, business, media, and communities, alongside education safety measures and economic support for survivors. The event included SPAB at SMAN 1 Kalasan, the Survivors Market at Candi Prambanan, and calls for cross‑sector collaboration and rapid safety improvements for schools and pesantren nationwide.

Bank Indonesia Reveals that the US$25,000 Purchase Restriction Is Not Permanent

Bank Indonesia says the requirement to report underlying transactions for cash/spot foreign exchange purchases is a temporary measure to curb panic buying and shift activity toward hedging. The policy will be lifted when the market matures and financial literacy improves; a June 2026 cut to the US$25,000 threshold is part of phased tightening, with derivatives like swaps and forwards allowed up to US$10 million to bolster market resilience.

Former BI Governor Recalls 2005 Crisis Experience to Prabowo

Former Bank Indonesia governor Burhanuddin Abdullah recounts his experiences during the 2005 crisis to President Prabowo Subianto. He describes how external factors drove the fuel-price hike then, and how BI’s policy actions helped curb inflation and stabilise the rupiah, with inflation returning to 2004 levels by 2006. He declined to disclose certain details publicly, and said Prabowo asked Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to study his proposals.

PKK General Chairperson Urges Alor Students to Use Free Health Checks (CKG) as an Investment

The TP PKK, led by Tri Tito Karnavian, attended a Free Health Check (CKG) for students at SMAN 1 Kalabahi in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara. The programme included mental health screening, TB screening, and eye health checks to promote adolescent wellbeing. Tri emphasised health as an investment for the future and witnessed the induction of a TB-awareness youth ambassador and the handover of UKS equipment.

Not Mugged: Model's Head Wound in West Jakarta Turns Out to Be a Burst Boil

A model identified as ADV, who initially claimed to have been robbed in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta, is found to have sustained a ruptured boil on the head. Police emphasise the injury was not caused by assault; the investigation aims to clarify whether the individual attempted to create a sensational narrative.

Academics say the establishment of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia could curb under-invoicing practices

An economist from Andalas University argues that creating a state-owned entity, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), could curb under-invoicing by improving transparency and oversight of export prices and data. The plan, linked to President Prabowo Subianto's directive to modernise natural-resource trade governance, aims to strengthen national economic sovereignty without stifling private exporters.

Kemkomdigi Blocks Polymarket, Online Gambling Posed as Prediction Market

Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi) has blocked access to Polymarket’s website, citing online gambling disguised as a prediction market. The agency says it is committed to eradicating digital gambling and is also tracing Polymarket-linked social media accounts to enforce a comprehensive shutdown, with the move aligning with tighter international scrutiny of similar platforms.

When the World Moves Towards the 'Law of the Jungle'

Indonesia’s handling of the release of Indonesian citizens from a conflict zone is framed as more than a routine consular matter, reflecting a broader shift in geopolitics from rules-based order to power politics. Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping warn of a world sliding into a 'law of the jungle', illustrating a global landscape increasingly shaped by strategic rivalries and state interests. The piece argues that sovereignty and humanitarian diplomacy are being tested as international institutions struggle to enforce norms.

KPK Traces Private-Sector Gifts to Gatut Sunu Related to Projects

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is probing alleged gifts from private-sector actors to Gatut Sunu Wibowo during his tenure as Tulungagung regent, in connection with steering project winners within the Tulungagung district government. The investigation followed an arrest operation on 10 April 2026 that detained 18 people, including Gatut Sunu and his brother Jatmiko Dwijo Saputro, with further charges of extortion and other receipts involving multiple SKPD heads.

Attends Polri Dokkes Rakernis, Jasa Raharja: Strengthening Cross-Sector Synergy Is Key to Reducing Traffic Accident Fatalities

Jasa Raharja attended the 2026 Rakernis of Polri's Dokkes to strengthen cross-sector cooperation in improving medical response for traffic accident victims. The forum discussed digitising health services, standardising on-field medical care, and promoting road-safety education to curb fatalities.

LPS Booth at Jogja Financial Festival Brings Education and Excitement

At Jogja Financial Festival 2026, the LPS booth educated students and visitors about deposit protection while offering interactive games like a Crossword and Aman Go, with top-scoring participants winning prizes. The event highlighted LPS's role as an independent, accountable banking regulator and its efforts to promote financial stability in Indonesia.

Jakpro Subsidiary and ADPMET Join Forces to Strengthen Regional Oil and Gas Management

Jakpro's subsidiary PT Jakarta OSES Energi (PT JOE) has signed a memorandum of understanding with ADPMET to bolster governance of the 10 per cent participating interest in regional oil and gas blocks. The collaboration, announced at IPA Convex 2026, aims to build governance capacity, enhance transparency and accountability, and promote sustainable operations, while expanding social and environmental programmes in Pulau Sabira and Kepulauan Seribu. It will also strengthen human resource capabilities and encourage collaboration among PI managers across the regions, expanding local economic development through community participation.

Strengthening the Logistics Corridor, Alfa Trans Raya Targets Mining Cargo Shipments to East Indonesia

Alfa Trans Raya has launched Alfa Trans Tiga, a new container vessel developed via its subsidiary ATR, to bolster ATR's capacity to serve mining, energy, and mineral-processing sectors and to strengthen maritime logistics along corridors to Sulawesi and Central and Eastern Indonesia. The project aims to improve ship space availability, reliability, and safety for large-scale supply chains.

Dramatic, viral cow rescue from an old well in Abiansemal, Badung

A video showing Badung Regency Fire and Rescue officers rescuing a cow from an old well went viral, underscoring the risks of such operations and the professionalism of the emergency team. The operation used specialist rescue gear, and the cow was recovered safely and released unharmed, with authorities praising the team’s coordination.

Indonesian Government and Republic of Korea Sign Agreement to Strengthen Digital Government

Indonesia and South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate on AI development in the public sector and digital governance, creating a framework for policy dialogue, technical collaboration, and capacity-building. The agreement aims to accelerate digital public infrastructure, digital population identity (IKD), interoperability between agencies, and the INAku service portal, while supporting Indonesia’s accession to the OECD; officials emphasised turning the accord into concrete, tangible reforms.

Monster Energy Becomes Aprilia's Main Sponsor in MotoGP

Monster Energy is set to become Aprilia's main sponsor for the MotoGP season from 2026, marking a milestone for the Italian factory team which previously operated without a main sponsor. The deal comes as Aprilia leads the constructors' standings and amid speculation about Monster Energy's future with Yamaha, with Bezzecchi and possibly Bagnaia linked to the squad.

Kepri Police Uncover Fake Drug Ring in Sagulung, Batam

Two men were arrested in Batam for allegedly selling pills claimed to be ecstasy; narcotics tests showed the pills were not MDMA; authorities say the sale of fake drugs is rising in Batam, and they imposed counselling and non-punitive actions.

China Builds a Giant Umbrella in Space, Turns Out to Be Starlink's Killer

GalaxySpace claims its 1-metre umbrella-shaped satellite antenna can be folded compactly to under 12% of its deployed size, enabling much larger reflectors without reducing launch efficiency. The technology is pitched to boost broadband satellite capacity up to tenfold and support future constellations, navigation, and direct-to-cell services. The move aligns with China’s push to industrialise aerospace as a key sector, with aerospace now a pillar industry in the 2026 Government Work Report.

France urges Europe to strengthen its role in NATO

France says Europe should build its own vision and strengthen defence to boost Europe’s role in NATO, amid reviews of US military presence in Europe. The comments follow reports of potential US troop withdrawals from Germany and plans to deploy more troops to Poland.

KPPPA: No potential human trafficking identified in case of 11 babies found at a midwife's home

Indonesia’s Ministry for Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection says there is no evidence yet of human trafficking in the case of 11 babies found at a midwife’s home in Sleman, Yogyakarta. Police investigations continue, including scrutiny of the midwife's alibi; some babies have been treated in hospital, while others are in social care.

Papua's MRP Approves Draft Special Regional Regulation to Strengthen Protection for Indigenous Papuans (OAP)

The Papua People's Assembly (MRP) has approved a draft Special Regional Regulation amending No. 17 of 2023 to strengthen protections for Indigenous Papuans (OAP). The MRP emphasises that the regulation should be a protective and empowering instrument, not merely bureaucratic, and calls for a dedicated body for OAP protection and empowerment. The draft now moves to discussion with the Papua DPR and local government ahead of enactment into a Special Regional Regulation.

Not Just 10! Purbaya Identifies More Than 15 Illicit CPO Firms

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa disclosed that more than 15 crude palm oil (CPO) companies are under investigation for underinvoicing, beyond the 10 named earlier. The findings have been handed to the Attorney General's Office and BPKP for further checks, with similar concerns raised about coal firms. He asserts that the verification uses ship-by-ship data rather than UN data.

PBNU–Malaysia explore cooperation in Islamic economy and halal business

PBNU and Malaysia agree to deepen collaboration on the Islamic economy and halal businesses in Southeast Asia, aiming to create more jobs and boost global competitiveness. The talks, conducted via a people-to-people approach, include plans for an international halal expo in Indonesia and the launch of a global Islamic investment platform, Nahdlatul Ulama Harvest Maslaha.

Police to Implement Traffic Management for Persib's Championship Parade

Police in West Java will implement traffic management and diversions for the Persib championship parade in Bandung over the weekend, starting from 07:00 on Sunday, 24 May 2026. The parade route runs from Gedung Sate on Jalan Diponegoro to Gedung Merdeka on Jalan Asia Afrika, with detours in place to prevent congestion. More than 3,000 personnel and volunteers from Bobotoh will assist.

Danantara Announces 85 New Partners for Waste-to-Energy Project

Danantara Investment Management announced the results of the second-wave selection of eligible providers for the waste-to-energy project, naming 85 entities as DPT. The programme, managed by Denera, expands global participation and includes 16 Indonesian firms; ToR will be issued to those who passed, with further information on the schedule and procedures for the next stage to follow.

Technology and Investment to Determine Indonesia's Oil and Gas Future

Indonesia remains rich in oil and gas potential, including in Kalimantan, with strong implications for national production targets. Achieving higher output requires investment, advanced technology, legal certainty, and streamlined bureaucracy, alongside regulatory alignment with signed production sharing contracts (PSCs). Industry voices call for cross‑ministry coordination, aggressive exploration, and the adoption of digital technologies to improve efficiency and reduce production declines.

Leadership Training: Gus Ipul Stresses the Importance of Data-Driven Programmes

Gus Ipul stressed that leadership participants must translate a regional head's vision into coherent programmes grounded in unified data, in line with a Presidential Instruction on the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN). He warned that disparate data across ministries and agencies hinder social programmes and emphasised the need for rapid, accurate data updates. The training—attended by 49 participants and senior officials from the Ministry of Social Affairs and BPSDM North Sumatra—underscored data-driven governance as a cornerstone of public service.

1,000 Belitung residents hold mass betel-chewing event

Around 1,000 residents of Belitung Regency took part in a mass betel-chewing event intended to preserve the tradition and spur a revival of local tourism and the economy. The event is part of the Napak Sire Belitung Cultural Festival 2026, and the central government has acknowledged the festival as a major cultural asset for Nusantara.

Waru Market Traders Say Profits Shrink as Input Costs Rise

Traders at Waru Market in North Jakarta report thinning profits as input costs for onions, chillies and other staples rise since Eid al-Fitr 2026. With wholesale prices climbing, sellers have been forced to raise prices, while capital requirements have surged, squeezing turnover. They hope prices stabilise to restore both trader profits and consumer purchasing power.

Writer's daughter in Depok reports Hercules to police over kidnapping

Ilma Sani Fitriana, the daughter of writer Ahmad Bahar, has filed reports with Polda Metro Jaya against GRIB Jaya chairman Hercules, relating to alleged detention and kidnapping last weekend, including threats and the use of firearms. She also reported a hacking of her WhatsApp account. GRIB Jaya's spokesman said the party did not object to the filing but accused Bahar’s camp of distorting facts, noting a previously resolved dispute and ongoing online videos linked to the case.

These are the 11 powers of Komnas HAM to be regulated in the revision of the Human Rights Law

The revision of the 1999 Human Rights Law will specify 11 powers for the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) and strengthen its role, including investigations, compulsory attendance, and binding recommendations, raising questions about enforcement and accountability.

Crypto Education Session at Jogja Financial Festival 2026 Proves Very Engaging

An Educational Talks session at Jogja Financial Festival 2026 featured a crypto-education quiz and a panel led by the OJK on Indonesia's crypto market, noting rising account numbers and near Rp100 trillion in cumulative crypto transactions this year, while cautioning against hot money and urging research before investing. The event included participants from LPS and the Indonesian Blockchain Association, highlighting ongoing regulatory and market interest in digital assets.

Tri Tito Urges PKK Cadres to Drive Safe, Nutritious Food Education Based on Local Marine Potential

Tri Tito Karnavian urged PKK cadres to drive education on safe, diverse, and nutritious foods based on local marine resources, including fishery products. He stressed the PKK's strategic role in spreading healthy eating patterns from families to communities and urged better fish processing practices. The Alor event highlighted the importance of safeguarding marine ecosystems for future generations and the need to avoid harvesting or trading protected species.

Robbery at a minimarket in Tangerang Regency, cashier threatened with a pistol

Armed robbers struck a minimarket in Pasanggrahan Village, Solear District, Tangerang Regency, stealing Rp29.93 million from the safe before fleeing on a motorcycle. CCTV shows two men entering, with one pistol-whipping the cashier and the other threatening staff with a knife to access the safe. Police say investigations are continuing and suspects have not yet been identified.

Indonesian Citizens' Future Funds Lost Rp9.5 Trillion, OJK Chief Reveals Causes

At the Jogja Financial Festival, OJK chair Friderica Dewi warns that losses from financial scams total Rp9.5 trillion in the last year, urging stronger financial literacy and early investment education; she highlights impersonation, investment scams and love scams as prevalent risks, and mentions a national committee to improve consumer protection.

Six Best Tablets for Gaming

The piece surveys top Android-friendly gaming tablets, detailing key specs such as fast processors, cooling, high-refresh-rate displays, and large RAM. It covers models like Poco Pad C1, Huawei’s tablet strategy against iPad Pro and Galaxy Tab S-series, HONOR Pad X8b, Black Shark's premium tablet, and Infinix XPAD GT, underscoring market competition and price tiers.

Petrokimia Gresik to Strengthen Gas Supply through 2035 to Safeguard Fertiliser Production

Petrokimia Gresik has signed a Gas Sales and Purchase Agreement with Husky-CNOOC Madura Limited to secure gas from the MDA-MBH field, with potential additional supply of 30-35 MMSCFD, and has also signed a Heads of Agreement with PC Ketapang II Ltd as an initial step toward long-term gas collaboration. The move aims to ensure energy reliability for fertiliser production and support national food security amid global energy dynamics.

PT SBI targets to begin exporting 450,000 tonnes of cement to the US by the end of May 2026

PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia (SBI) aims to export about 450,000 tonnes of cement to the United States in 2026, with initial shipments from its Tuban plant starting in late May. The company expects exports to rise to about one million tonnes by 2027 and could contribute around 10% to the group’s revenue within three years, as it seeks to capitalise on US import demand and strengthen cost competitiveness and quality signals.

Lego marks the 40th anniversary of the BMW M3 E30 with a new miniature model

Lego marks the 40th anniversary of the BMW M3 E30 with a new miniature in its Speed Champions line. The model was developed through direct collaboration between Lego's design team and BMW at BMW’s headquarters in Germany to reproduce the E30 M3 in meticulous detail, including a two-part kidney grille. The set goes on sale from 1 August 2026 for US$29.99 (about Rp530,000) or €27.99 in Europe.

Meta rolls out new teen content restrictions in Indonesia

Meta expands its teen safety framework in Indonesia with a PG-13 default across all Instagram features for users aged 13-17, plus a stricter 'Limited Content' setting for parents who want more control. The rollout builds on earlier launches in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada and adds to Meta's suite of safety controls aimed at protecting underage users online.

Four Suspected Drug Dealers in Bima Arrested During Meth Party

Police in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, arrested four men on drug-related charges after allegedly distributing and using methamphetamine at a house in Parado Rato. The suspects, identified as DWP, ZA, IP and MH, are being questioned as investigators pursue further links to a wider drug network. Officers seized seven sachets of sabu (7.14 grams) and cash, with investigations continuing under the Police Chief's directive.

Fifth day, plastic warehouse fire in West Jakarta still not extinguished

On its fifth day, the West Jakarta plastic warehouse fire continues as firefighters operate at multiple points. Despite a significant ongoing blaze and smoke reaching nearby communities, authorities have reduced deployments, while factory operations behind the warehouse continue.

Purbaya Affirms Government Economic Optimism Is Based on Measured Calculations

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says government optimism about the economy rests on measured calculations and policy steps, not on over-optimism. He cites Q1 2026 growth of 5.61%, a contained budget deficit of 0.64% of GDP (IDR 164.4 trillion as of 30 April 2026), and a strengthening investment climate as evidence of a resilient path forward.

Educlass Jogja FinFest 2026 Draws Students and the General Public

Educational Class sessions at the Jogjakarta Financial Festival 2026 attracted students, university attendees and members of the public to learn about financial survival for the younger generation. The programme features regulators and finance officials from Kemenkeu, OJK, BI and LPS, plus stand-up comedian Arif Brata, with the festival running on 22-23 May 2026 at Jogja Expo Centre in Bantul.

Why Iran Has Not Fallen Despite Dozens of Its Figures Being Killed by the US and Israel, Western Media Say

Western media report that after an Israeli strike allegedly killed Iran's supreme leader, power in Tehran continues to be exercised by a small circle of senior IRGC-aligned elites rather than by Mojtaba Khamenei alone. A New York Times account says a 'brotherhood' of veteran commanders plays a decisive role in policy, underscoring the IRGC's enduring influence. The piece traces how power in Iran remains distributed among top security and military figures, not a single heir.

Digital Transactions Rise, MSMEs Need to Understand Cybersecurity

As the use of digital financial services expands among MSMEs in Indonesia, there is growing emphasis on digital security and financial literacy. The piece quotes GoPay's Audrey P. Petriny on the importance of literacy and secure transactions, while OJK Bali, Bank Indonesia, and PPATK caution against risks and endorse compliance; QRIS Cross Border is highlighted as a way to receive cross-border payments from regional tourists, with warnings to protect personal data and remain vigilant against fraud.

Value of Derivatives Trading Transactions Rises by 29 per cent, Bappebti Records Rp33,214.89 trillion

The value of PBK trading in 2024 reached Rp33,214.89 trillion, up 29.34 per cent from 2023's Rp25,679.97 trillion, according to Bappebti. The rise coincides with growing Indonesian interest in derivatives, including forex and commodities, and the launch of digital platforms such as Invetra, amid broader digital finance growth.

From Semarang, Agra Joins Educational Class at JFF: Learning Stocks

At Jogja Financial Festival (JFF) 2026, an Educational Class led by Stock Enthusiast Michael Yeoh and Bank Mega’s Caroline Setiabudi explored how to profit from stocks, with participants including Agra Swatiayana travelling from Semarang. The session emphasised stock market learning for Gen Z, featuring insights on IHSG and market strategies and interactive Q&A backed by Bank Mega prizes.

Nickel Corruption Case Entangles Hery Susanto; Ombudsman Ethics Council to Hear Him Next Week

The suspended chair of the Ombudsman, Hery Susanto, is scheduled to be questioned by the Ombudsman's Ethics Council on Monday, 25 May 2026, amid allegations linked to nickel mining governance in Southeast Sulawesi. It remains unclear whether he will attend in person, with the possibility of representation by legal counsel. The Ethics Council intends to proceed and is expected to issue a decision thereafter.

Struggling to Coordinate Public Transport as the Master Plan Is Violated

A policy adviser warns that Indonesian cities struggle to coordinate public transport due to broken master plans and inconsistent regulations. Jakarta shows some progress through JakLingko integration, but other major cities lag, underscoring the need for phased reforms focused on accessibility, reliability, and technology.

Purbaya Responds to Allegations that Director General of Customs Took Bribes

Purbaya has responded amid reports that prosecutors presented envelopes coded with sums linked to bribe payments to the Director General of Customs. The KPK highlighted an envelope marked with code '1' containing 213,600 Singapore dollars, while Ocoy says he does not know the envelope owner. The case has prompted Prabowo to demand reform at the DJBC and potential leadership changes, underscoring ongoing anti-corruption scrutiny of Indonesia’s customs agency.

Strange! Trump Threatens to Sue His Own Government, and Distributes a Massive Payout

Former US President Donald Trump threatened to sue his own government over a tax data leak, but withdrew the suit after his administration agreed to establish a US$1.8 billion compensation fund for 'lawfare' victims. Critics say the privately arranged fund bypasses Congress and could funnel taxpayer money to MAGA supporters, heightening concerns about the politicisation of justice.

Finance Minister: Indonesia's economy grows 5.61%, the highest since Q3 2022

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that Indonesia's economy grew 5.61% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, the highest pace since Q3 2022, underpinned by strong household consumption, investment, and more efficient government spending. He attributes the gain to prudent budget management that supports the private sector, while the DIY governor emphasises financial literacy and warns against impulsive consumption and debt in the digital era.

How to replace a damaged KTP in Jakarta: steps to follow

Jakarta's civil registry office (Dukcapil) explains how to replace a damaged e-KTP: visit the Dukcapil counter at your kelurahan with the damaged card, have data verified, complete Form F-1.02, and receive a new e-KTP if all details are in order. The piece also sets out features distinguishing genuine e-KTPs from fakes and emphasises verification via NIK and biometrics. It notes that each citizen has a single lifelong NIK and promotes the use of Identitas Kependudukan Digital (IKD) to prevent data misuse.

Assessing the Fiscal Anchor for 2027

Parliament advocates tightening domestic instruments through an equitable expansion of the tax base, rather than burdening small businesses. President Prabowo Subianto's 20 May 2026 plenary address signals a bold, Pancasila-aligned fiscal direction, with the 2027 KEM PPKF targeting 5.8-6.5% growth. The government seeks broader regional development and greater cross-sector cooperation under the Indonesia Incorporated concept, with a projected poverty rate decline to about 6.0-6.5% by 2027.

GRIB Speaks Out After Hercules Is Reported to Police Over Alleged Detention of Writer's Daughter

GRIB Jaya says it will prove who is truly responsible after a police report was filed against its Chairman over alleged detention of writer Ahmad Bahar's daughter, Ilma Sani Fitriana. A second complaint concerns a WhatsApp hacking incident; both reports were logged with Polda Metro Jaya on 22 May 2026.

Extreme Weather Causes Trees to Fall in Two Areas of Padang

Two trees were brought down by heavy rain and strong winds in Padang on Thursday, with one ram­butan tree collapsing onto a Musala on Jalan Sutan Syahrir. Cleanup was carried out by BPBD, Satlinmas and local volunteers under the Padang Rancak programme, with officials warning residents to remain vigilant during storms; authorities say the situation is now under control.

Deputy Health Minister suggests Aceh immunisation on public holidays to boost coverage

The Deputy Health Minister, Dante Saksono, urged that Aceh's immunisation programme be delivered on holidays to improve coverage, currently around 33%. He cited logistical and perceptual barriers, including working parents and misconceptions that vaccination causes dangerous fever, and called for media collaboration to promote accurate information about immunisation.

Purbaya Confident IHSG Could Hit 8,000, Set to Rally Next Week!

During Friday's trading, the IHSG dipped to the 5,900s before closing up 1.10% at 6,162.05. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa remains confident that the market can return to the 8,000 level as Indonesia's economy strengthens. He urged investors to buy profitable stocks, predicting the index could rally strongly next week on improving fundamentals.

Kemkomdigi says 'Age Assurance' for PSE is crucial for age verification

Kemkomdigi states that Age Assurance technology used by Electronic System Providers is central to verifying users’ ages under the PP Tunas framework. It emphasises that verification should be proportionate and not rely solely on self-declared ages, with education initiatives for parents and children to support child protection online.

Redmi Note 17 Appears on GSMA IMEI Database, Release Schedule Could Be Faster

Redmi Note 17 has surfaced in the GSMA IMEI database, signaling that development of the next-generation Note Series is underway and that its launch could come sooner than historical patterns. The listing shows three variants and suggests readiness for global and Latin American markets, while no China- or India-specific version has appeared yet; leaks also hint at a possible Pro Max model with notable specifications.

TRAP Special Committee on Bali DPRD Rebuked by Leadership: Learn the Law First

The TRAP Special Committee on Spatial Planning, Assets and Permitting in Bali defends its legal approach after being criticised by the Bali DPRD leadership, emphasising that its field inspections are legally grounded and that Law No. 23 of 2024 allows recommendations by the legislature to proceed without waiting for gubernatorial orders. The episode centers on procedural tensions over Satpol PP enforcement and whether directives should originate from the governor or the legislature.

Video: Ministry of Environment Builds Companies to Implement Sustainability Principles

Indonesia’s PROPER rating programme is used by the Ministry of Environment to drive corporate sustainability. Rasio Ridho Sani says ratings will improve from Blue to Green to Gold, signalling adoption of sustainability principles and innovations in environmental and social protection. KLH emphasises PROPER benefits and Green Leadership to bolster company image and investor confidence.

Gen Z Dominates Internet Usage, Parental Digital Literacy Still Lagging

Gen Z accounts for the largest share of Indonesia's internet users, about 25.5%, while the national digital literacy index remains around 44.5% as of 2025. ECPAT Indonesia and Meta have launched the Smart Digital Parenting programme to narrow the digital literacy gap, with pilots in four provinces and a plan to train 240 Parent Champions to reach thousands of people and produce digital education assets.

Testimony of Global Sumud Flotilla Activist Tortured While Detained by Israel

An international humanitarian activist on the Global Sumud Flotilla to Gaza has described brutal treatment by Israeli forces after their aid ship was intercepted in international waters. Julien Cabral said the crew faced violent assaults, extended detentions without medical care, and harsh conditions aboard a prison ship, as Turkish authorities evacuated evacuees and ferried them to safety.

Health Ministry awaits regional submissions to place doctors in DTPK, Aceh

Indonesia's Health Ministry will deploy doctors to DTPK areas only after local governments submit requests. The programme offers hefty incentives for specialist doctors, with a Rp30 million monthly central government top-up and additional local funding, potentially lifting total earnings to Rp60 million or more per month, plus housing and extra allowances. The plan, supported by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to improve healthcare in Aceh's remote regions, but deployment remains contingent on regional demand.

Central Sulawesi Provincial Government Forms Cooperation with Hainan Province, China

Central Sulawesi is strengthening ties with China's Hainan Province to boost investment and cooperation across tropical agriculture, green minerals, trade, industry, and education. The two regions agree to deepen sustained collaboration, develop joint production and distribution platforms, and expand human resource development through a Tropical Region University Alliance. The visit also highlighted Hainan's Free Trade Port and opportunities under the RCEP to broaden regional collaboration.

DAMRI Attends the Asia and the Pacific Transport Forum 2026 in Manila, Strengthening Public Transport Transformation

DAMRI participated in the Asia and the Pacific Transport Forum 2026 in Manila, 18–22 May 2026, to broaden its global perspective and foster collaboration on modernising Indonesia's public transport. The delegation, led by Setia N. Milatia Moemin, shared experiences on fleet electrification, operational sustainability, and adaptive financing, emphasising inclusivity and cross‑sector partnerships. The forum highlighted long-term financing, PPP models, digitalisation, and integration with urban planning as key levers for future mobility.

Airlangga reports to Prabowo: Business associations applaud the formation of DSI

Airlangga Hartarto told President Prabowo that domestic and international business associations welcomed the formation of the state-owned Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) and expressed readiness to cooperate with the new body. The associations urged transparency and clarity about the new regulator and its structure, as the government proceeds with the policy and outreach. The government has recently announced a regulation designating state-owned enterprises as the sole exporters for palm oil, coal, and ferro alloys.

Octopus Festival: Kaur's Tourism Magnet Once Again Attracts Visitors

The Octopus Festival in Kaur, Bengkulu, runs from 22 to 23 May 2026 to mark the regency’s 23rd anniversary. It aims to boost fishermen and SME livelihoods through cooking contests, exhibitions and cultural shows, while promoting octopus for culinary and tourism markets, and includes NGO-supported conservation efforts.

Jakarta's odd-even traffic scheme suspended on 27–28 May 2026; all vehicles may pass

Jakarta's odd-even traffic restrictions will be paused on 27-28 May 2026 to coincide with Eid al-Adha holidays, allowing all vehicles to traverse roads normally restricted. The suspension references joint ministerial decrees; authorities urge motorists to prioritise safety and follow traffic signs during the long weekend.

US: NATO countries unable to produce ammunition at the pace required for future needs

NATO members are reportedly not currently able to produce ammunition quickly enough to meet future needs, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He said ministers are laying groundwork for what could be one of NATO's most significant leader summits, and highlighted tensions within the alliance over US military actions in the Middle East, including discussions about potential changes to NATO membership.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Reveals Progress in Iran Situation and the Strait of Hormuz

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says there has been 'a little progress' on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz ahead of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting. He reaffirmed that Iran must not possess nuclear weapons and highlighted a focus on uranium enrichment and stockpiles, while warning about a proposed levy system in the Strait of Hormuz and seeking UN support for a Bahrain-sponsored resolution. He also signalled scepticism about the UN Security Council's dynamics.

Using Adult Perfume on Teens Could Trigger Thyroid Disorders, Is It True?

Occasional use of adult perfume by adolescents is unlikely to cause thyroid disorders, according to a leading paediatric expert. However, concerns about ingredients such as phthalates persist, particularly with long-term or excessive use, since phthalates are considered endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Risks relate more to usage patterns and exposure than to a single application.

Yogyakarta marks 20 years since quake with resilience drive

Indonesia marks 20 years since the Yogyakarta earthquake with a resilience drive under the Kita Tangguh programme, emphasising a government–academia–business–media–community collaboration. The opening day featured SPAB sessions at SMAN 1 Kalasan to promote disaster‑resilient culture, evacuation procedures, and reporting via the Jogja Digdaya platform, underscoring schools’ role in building preparedness.

Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture pushes for strengthening a resilient culture through SPAB

The Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture, in collaboration with PT Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan and Ratu Boko, is implementing a disaster-resilient education programme for ten schools in the Opak Fault area. The SPAB approach aims to embed disaster risk awareness in schools, as part of the 20th anniversary of the Yogyakarta earthquake, with awards and recognition for participants and partners.

Ahmad Bahar's daughter reports GRIB Hercules to police over alleged detention

The daughter of writer Ahmad Bahar (ISF) has filed a police report against GRIB Jaya's General Chairman Rosario de Marshall, alias Hercules, alleging detention at the organisation's Kedoya headquarters and related threats. The complaint also involves alleged WhatsApp hacking and charges under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law, with multiple case numbers recorded by Polda Metro Jaya.

Strengthen Kaur's MSMEs: Bengkulu Ministry of Law Educates on Intellectual Property

Authorities in Bengkulu's Ministry of Law and Human Rights conducted an IP-awareness programme for the Merah Putih village/cooperatives and local MSMEs in Kaur, underscoring IP's role in supporting the creative economy and regional product competitiveness. The event explained IP regimes—copyright, trademarks, patents, industrial designs, and communal IP—and provided guidance on registering collective marks and a geographical indication for Batik Gurita Kaur. Bengkulu Kanwil also offered consultancy and assistance for electronic filing, while local officials welcomed efforts to safeguard local creativity and strengthen market access.

Bulog prepares concept of in-kind rice assistance for civil servants and the TNI-Polri

Bulog has drafted a plan to distribute in-kind rice to ASN and members of the TNI-Polri as part of strengthening national food security. The proposal was presented to Commission IV of the DPR and is still being coordinated with the government; it envisages 10 kg of rice per recipient per month, and excludes cooking oil. The scope and rollout—nationwide or phased—remain under discussion.

Apple Says It Prevented Rp36 Trillion of Fraud in the App Store

Apple reports that in 2025 it blocked more than US$2.2 billion in fraudulent App Store transactions, part of over US$11.2 billion in fraud prevented in six years. It attributes fraud to stolen credit cards, fake accounts, illegal app purchases and payment-system manipulation, and notes that AI-based apps are making reviews more complex.

Transjakarta Unveils Open Dining Double-Decker Bus

Transjakarta has unveiled a new luxury double-decker bus concept named 'Open Dining of Jakarta', showcased at Busworld 2026 in JiEXPO Kemayoran. The service, slated to begin operating in early June, offers three cuisine options and a fine-dining style upper deck; tickets will be booked via the TJ: Transjakarta app, with routes and prices to be announced later.

TP PKK Chairperson Urges Alor Students to Raise Health Awareness Through Free Health Checks

Tri Tito Karnavian, the Chairperson of TP PKK, attended a Free Health Check event at SMAN 1 Kalabahi in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara, to promote adolescent health awareness. The programme includes mental health screening, tuberculosis screening, and eye health checks, and featured the appointment of an Alor TB Youth Ambassador and the symbolic handover of UKS equipment. He emphasised the importance of mental health and early health education, and urged students to utilise technology and improve English to compete globally.

Danantara backs choice of Australian to lead state resource firm

Danantara's CEO Rosan Roeslani announced the appointment of Luke Thomas Mahony as president director of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI), citing his global commodity expertise and strong local ties. Mahony, an Australian former director at PT Vale Indonesia, has led Danantara's business performance efforts and will help steer Indonesia's resource sector overhaul as the government consolidates exports of key commodities to stem revenue leakages. The move highlights the government's push for tighter state control over strategic resources amid ongoing policy reforms.

"Those Who Struggle Remain Untouched" — A Blind Masseuse's Confession: Yet to Receive Government Assistance

In Jakarta, two blind masseurs describe how government aid programmes, including decile-based targeting and the Jakarta Disability Card, fail to reach many disabled workers. They cite data inaccuracies, arduous procedures, and limited field outreach amid competition from online massage services.

14 Google Password Manager Features You Should Know

Google Password Manager stores, manages and secures passwords across Android devices and Chrome. It offers password saving, autofill, cross-device synchronisation, breach alerts and encrypted storage, all integrated into Chrome and Android. It supports import/export and biometric verification for viewing passwords, enhancing convenience and security.

Public Works Minister Admits Disaster Recovery in Aceh Is Still Lagging Behind, Here Are the Reasons

Indonesia's Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo says Aceh's post-disaster recovery remains behind other regions due to its vast size and severe river and upstream damage. The government is accelerating rice-field and irrigation rehabilitation to meet the 2026 food self-sufficiency target, while rebuilding focuses on bridges, irrigation, and dam projects in the emergency phase.

Samsung Budget Phone Price List: Galaxy S25 Starts at Rp10 Million

Samsung has launched a Certified Re-Newed refurbished programme in India for premium Galaxy devices, offering models from Galaxy A to Galaxy S25 with new packaging, accessories, and a one-year factory warranty. The devices are inspected, cleaned, tested, and had software validated at the factory, with data erased and original Samsung parts used. Prices for refurbished units range from about Rp4.2 million for the Galaxy A36 5G 128GB to Rp17.8 million for the Galaxy S25 Ultra 5G 256GB.

Polri Strengthens Digitalisation of Public Services Through Korlantas Innovations

The Deputy Chief of Police opened the 2026 Technical Working Meeting for the Traffic Function, emphasising Polri's ongoing digital transformation via ETLE Drone, ETLE Face Recognition, SIM Digital and real-time data integration as concrete responses to the KPRP reform recommendations. Polri is expanding national digital services such as SIGNAL and SINAR, strengthening NTMC, RTMC and TMC, and enhancing accountability through Body Worn Cameras and CCTV–AI integration, with success hinging on capable, integrity-driven personnel.

Police Probe CCTV Footage as They Investigate Stabbing of Parangtritis Toll Collection Officer

Police are examining CCTV around the scene after an officer at the Parangtritis old toll collection point was stabbed. The suspect reportedly wore a helmet and a face covering, and CCTV footage is being analysed as investigators probe the motive, with no conclusion yet. The victim, MBA, 38, sustained a left thigh laceration; the incident occurred around 21:00 local time, and the authorities note the local government's use of Parangtritis residents for night-time collection.

Not Worried About Crisis Threat, Purbaya: In 1998 the Rupiah fell from Rp2,000 to Rp17,000

The Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the government is not worried about a new economic crisis, stressing that Indonesia's fundamentals are strong despite external pressures from ratings agencies and MSCI indices. He notes the 1998 crisis saw the rupiah plunge from Rp2,000 to around Rp17,000 per US dollar, a far greater depreciation than the current 4-5 percent, and calls for better communication of reforms to the public.

Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat, Together with KPA, Plant 1,000 Trees in Cianjur

Environment Minister Muhammad Jumhur Hidayat attended a tree-planting event at LPRA Batulawang, Cipanas, Cianjur, West Java, with the Konsorsium Pembaruan Agraria (KPA) and Pemersatu Petani Cianjur (PPC). The 1,000-tree planting was part of community-based environmental restoration and land-use improvements, reflecting government aims to mobilise productive land for welfare.

Indonesia's new export SOE wins positive industry response: Airlangga

The government unveiled PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia as an export-focused state-owned enterprise under the Danantara sovereign wealth fund, drawing positive reactions from industry bodies who seek transparency and clear governance. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani defended the appointment of Luke Thomas Mahony as president director, citing his trading and minerals background, while the policy is linked to a new regulation designating an SOE as sole exporter of palm oil, coal and ferroalloys, with ongoing stakeholder consultations.

Gus Par Launches New iPOS MBLB, Tax Surveillance Tightened

The Karangasem regent launched New iPOS MBLB to tighten oversight of local taxes and curb leakage, particularly in the Mineral Bukan Logam dan Batuan (MBLB) sector. The launch took place during a High Level Meeting on 22 May 2026. He emphasised transparent, data-driven management of Original Regional Revenue (PAD) and real-time recording of transactions to boost compliance and fiscal autonomy.

Logistics Drivers Appeal to Parliament Over ODOL Penalties, Saying They Are Punished, Not the Operators

Logistics drivers' associations have urged the Indonesian Parliament to review the government's zero ODOL policy ahead of its 2027 implementation, arguing that penalties chiefly affect drivers rather than owners and fleets. The groups call for stronger legal protections for drivers, standardised pay, social security, and safer rest areas, while emphasising the need for government dialogue with all logistics stakeholders.

BRI Consumer Expo 2026 Arrives in Jakarta, Abundant Promotions for Homes, Cars and Dream Holidays

BRI Consumer Expo 2026 will run from 22 to 24 May 2026 at the Jakarta International Convention Center (JICC), offering an integrated blend of financial services and lifestyle options. The event features special mortgage and vehicle-financing rates, property-purchase vouchers, and a wide range of car brands including EVs and hybrids. It targets families, professionals and entrepreneurs seeking affordable financing and lifestyle solutions in one venue.

Ahead of Persib Bandung vs Persijap Jepara, Bojan Hodak's Important Message to Bobotoh

Ahead of the decisive Super League clash with Persijap Jepara at GBLA, Persib Bandung coach Bojan Hodak has urged Bobotoh to maintain order and resist any over-exuberance. He emphasised that the team must stay focused on the game, and that celebrations, should they occur, must be conducted peacefully and within the rules.

Two suspects arrested during attempted motorcycle theft at Pasar Rebo petrol station

Two suspects were arrested after an attempted motorcycle theft at Gandaria SPBU in Pasar Rebo, East Jakarta. The suspects used a T-shaped key to damage the lock of a black Honda Vario motorcycle belonging to the victim. Police say both suspects claimed it was their first offence, and they are charged under Article 477 juncto 17 of Law Number 1 Year 2023; the penalty could be seven years’ imprisonment or two-thirds of that amount as it was an attempted act.

Gen Z Pursues Quick Money, OJK Warns of Dangers of Online Gambling and Online Lending

OJK chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi warns Gen Z against FOMO, FOPO, and YOLO driving consumptive behaviour, urging caution with digital financial products such as online gambling and online lending. The regulator emphasises digitalisation's benefits and risks, including cybercrime, and notes Gen Z as the most active demographic in Indonesia's equity markets, underscoring the need for financial literacy.

LRT Jabodebek Becomes a Key Fixture for Jakarta's Commuters, Here is the Evidence

The Jabodebek LRT is solidifying its role as a vital link for commuters into Jakarta, with morning peak usage peaking from 06:00 to 09:00 WIB and Harjamukti and Kuningan stations leading in outbound and inbound flows. KAI operates around 430 trips on weekdays to ease peak-hour crowding, and authorities urge travellers to stagger departures to maximise efficiency.

Indonesian Lawmaker Calls for ICC Involvement Over Torture of Indonesian Nationals by Israel

An Indonesian lawmaker has urged that the torture of nine Indonesian citizens by Israeli forces during a humanitarian mission be brought before the International Criminal Court, and called for international support to condemn the actions. He advocates that the case also be considered by a domestic Ad Hoc Human Rights Court to inform ICC proceedings. The nine were released and flown to Istanbul, where they reported they had been beaten, kicked, and tasered while in detention.

Prabowo invites former economic officials from the SBY era to discuss the 2008 crisis

President Prabowo Subianto has invited senior economic figures from Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's era to the Presidential Palace to draw on their experience in navigating the global economic crisis, particularly the shocks of 2008. The gathering underscored the administration’s focus on stabilising the financial sector and refining coordination between fiscal and monetary policy.

Human rights defenders to receive four protections under the Draft Human Rights Bill — what are they?

The article reports that the draft revision to Indonesia's Law No. 39 of 1999 on Human Rights proposes four protections for human rights defenders. It defines 'human rights defenders' and says they will be protected in both litigation and non-litigation activities, with further protections for those who are witnesses or victims.

Deputy Creative Economy Minister Proud as Bali Barbers Go Global, Yovie Widianto Says Garut Has Its Own Talent Too

At the Educational Class session of the Jogja Financial Festival 2026, Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar and renowned musician Yovie Widianto discussed managing finances in Indonesia's creative industries. They highlighted Bali barbershops gaining international recognition, Garut's home-grown barber talent, and Indonesian tattoo artists' demand abroad, including in Germany, while urging greater global outreach and collaboration with Indonesian embassies.

Family moved to tears after journalist Thoudy is confirmed safe and released

Indonesian photojournalist Thoudy Badai Rifanbillah has been confirmed safe after being detained by Israeli authorities during the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 humanitarian mission. His family, speaking from Bandung, said a video call with Thoudy in Turkey on 21 May provided the confirmation as Indonesian officials, in particular the Foreign Ministry, coordinated his protection and repatriation. The family awaits further medical checks and hopes for his swift return to Indonesia.

iPhone 19 Pro could feature a four-sided curved display

Apple is reportedly testing a four-sided curved display for the iPhone 19 Pro, including a hole-punch front camera while Face ID remains under the display. Leaks also raise questions about a separate 20th-anniversary model in 2027 with a full-screen design, but it’s unclear if such a variant would sit above the Pro/Pro Max. Technical hurdles to fully hiding the front camera and Face ID could mean the iPhone 19 Pro keeps the camera hole for now.

Prosecutors seek 4.5 years’ imprisonment for three defendants in Rp4.7 billion state-owned bank corruption case

Prosecutors in Banjarmasin have sought a 4.5-year prison term for three defendants in a Rp4.7 billion corruption case involving fictitious bank credit, with each defendant facing fines and a restitution order. The defendants allegedly conspired to create fictitious loans, manipulating over 190 account records between 2021 and 2023, in a scheme at a state-owned bank.

Police reveal results of examination of model suspected of being mugging victim

Metro Jaya Police disclosed the results of the examination of a model with the initials AWS, who was suspected of being a mugging victim in West Jakarta, after a video went viral. The forensic examination showed the injuries were boils that had erupted, not wounds inflicted by a mugger. Investigators are probing possible motives and whether groups may have attempted to manipulate the incident by claiming AWS was part of the victim.

Komnas HAM Says Reform Era Has Not Advanced Since 1998

Amiruddin Al Rahab, a commissioner of the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM), argues that Indonesia has not genuinely moved beyond the post‑1998 reform era, with ongoing rights abuses and little accountability for past crimes. He calls for the state to confront past violations, revise the 2000 Law on Human Rights to establish a separate procedural framework, and for government institutions to share responsibility rather than shifting blame to Komnas HAM, noting the unresolved May 1998 mass rapes case.

TASPEN begins disbursing the 13th salary to ASN retirees on 2 June 2026

PT TASPEN (Persero) has begun disbursing the 13th salary to retired ASN workers on 2 June 2026 through 46 payment partners nationwide, with direct payment and no re-authentication required. The disbursement adheres to Presidential Regulation No. 9 of 2026 and is based on May 2026 earnings, with no deductions such as pension loan repayments or income tax. TASPEN warns beneficiaries to beware of fraud and to use official channels for information.

Ansy Jan De Vries’ Injuries Not From Mugging, But a Burst Boil

Police have concluded that the injuries suffered by model Ansy Jan De Vries were caused by a ruptured boil rather than a mugging. Investigators also questioned Ansy over social media claims about being attacked, and warned that circulating false narratives for mischief or to glorify viral incidents will be probed.

Minister of Public Works Reveals Progress in Sumatra Post-Disaster Reconstruction

The Indonesian Minister of Public Works outlined progress in post-disaster reconstruction in Sumatra and Aceh, noting that bridges remain the most lagging element due to river widening which requires a redesign of permanent structures. The plan includes rapid, mass-mobilisation clean-ups of mud in housing areas and coordination with the Agriculture Ministry on irrigation and paddy fields, with follow-up inspections planned in Sumatra and Aceh.

Indonesia Faces Youth Smoking Emergency as 5 Million Children Become Active Smokers

Indonesia faces a public health challenge as 5 million children aged 10-18 are active smokers, according to BPOM data. Regulators warn of rising electronic cigarette use, expand cross-sector oversight, and tighten nicotine and tar controls, while emphasising that health safety is non-negotiable and calling for stronger enforcement and regulation.

Indonesia’s oil production to begin rising from 2025: this is the trigger

Two large projects, Terubuk-Forel and Banyu Urip Infill Clastic, are driving Indonesia’s oil output higher in 2025, with a government target of 605,000 barrels per day reached. For 2026, SKK Migas aims for 610,000 bopd, supported by 832 development wells and 39 exploration wells across 157 contractors, as announced by Rikky Rahmat Firdaus at IPA Convex 2026.

Indonesia Siap Ambil Peran Jadi Pemasok Pangan Dunia di Tengah Risiko Krisis Pangan Global

Indonesia is positioning itself as a future global food supplier as FAO warns of a looming global food crisis amid geopolitical tensions and supply-chain risks. The government reports robust domestic production and stock levels, and indicates that PT DSI Persero will assume full export functions from January 2027, alongside measures to safeguard national food security. Officials emphasise that while domestic needs are secure, Indonesia is prepared to support other countries and broaden international food cooperation.

Purbaya Predicts IHSG to Rally Strongly Next Week

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) could rally next week as Indonesia's economic fundamentals improve, after recent trading around the 5,900 level. He highlights that a stronger economy would lift company profitability and, in turn, push stock prices higher, with the market ending Friday higher on energy and basic materials leaders. The day’s close saw the IHSG at 6,162.05, with the LQ45 at 620.44.

Economist: BI rate rise to 5.25 percent to curb foreign capital outflows

Indonesian economist Eko Listiyanto says the 50-basis-point rise in BI's policy rate to 5.25% signals a pro-stability stance aimed at preventing foreign capital outflows amid geopolitical pressures. He notes that while the government highlights optimism in presenting the MEF-PPKF and the RAPBN 2027, growth projections of 5.8-6.5% may be overly optimistic, though rises in tax revenue through April 2026 are welcome.

Indonesian House of Representatives Commission VIII criticises Hajj tent auctioning; Ministry of Hajj and Umrah threatens to revoke licences

Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives criticised the practice of tent auctioning detected during the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage and urged the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to revoke the licences of KBIH/KBIHU found to engage in such practices. Lawmakers emphasised that tent dealings undermine pilgrims’ safety and dignity and pledged ongoing oversight of ARMUZNA arrangements. The ministry acknowledged the issue and pledged strict action, including potential licence revocation.

Economic Turnover of Milangkala Tatar Sunda Cultural Parade Reaches Rp80 Billion

The Milangkala Tatar Sunda Cultural Parade 2026 in West Java produced significant economic spillovers beyond cultural preservation. Organisers report a total economic turnover of Rp60.67 billion across nine regencies and municipalities, plus Rp24.3 billion in direct spending, lifting the total to over Rp80 billion. The event drew an estimated 1,213,500 spectators along the route, at the start and finish points.

Stealing Toilet Equipment at ITC Cempaka Mas Mall, Man Receives a 'Sporting Salute'

On 19 May 2026, a man was captured by mall cleaners and security while hiding behind a car-park wall at ITC Cempaka Mas Mall in Central Jakarta. Police say the suspect, ARD, is in custody as investigations continue; tools such as a pipe wrench, an adjustable wrench, and a hammer were found in his backpack, suggesting prior thefts at multiple locations. The arrest, captured on video and circulated on social media, ended with mall staff giving a 'sporting salute' to the suspect.

Common Sunscreen Use Mistakes Still Common Among Indonesians

Dermatologists warn that higher SPF does not automatically equate to better protection, stressing that sunscreen should suit the user’s skin and be reapplied. They caution against chasing viral products or instant-glow claims, and highlight potential risks from unclear ingredients, including skin sensitivity and, in extreme cases, skin barrier damage; a healthy lifestyle is also emphasised. With Indonesia’s high UV index, avoiding unnecessary sun exposure and covering up remain essential.

Central Jakarta urges students to take advantage of facilities at free private schools

Central Jakarta’s mayor urged students to utilise facilities at the free private school programme, emphasising higher learning and disciplined character to compete in the job market. He highlighted the goal of equipping students with AI, robotics, digitalisation and foreign language skills as part of the programme involving 18 of 103 private schools in the district. The principal of SMK YP IPPI Petojo welcomed the inclusion and called for broader access, while authorities push district-wide waste management initiatives.

IHSG closes up 1.10%, foreign investors net-sell Rp1 trillion

IHSG closed higher by 1.10% to 6,162.045 points, despite foreign investors posting a net sell of Rp1.06 trillion. The bulk of selling concentrated in BBCA and BMRI, while foreign buyers were recorded in commodity and mineral stocks such as TINS, INCO, PTRO and BIPI. The session saw the index swing between 5,966.860 and 6,171.967 with 449 stocks rising, 251 falling and 118 flat.

Video: KLH's Green Transformation, Strategy to Promote Sustainable Industry

The Indonesian government, through KLH, is urging companies to participate in PROPER, the Environmental Management Performance Rating Programme, to promote transparency and legal accountability for environmental permits and to prevent damage and pollution. Deputy Rasio Ridho Sani says applying the 3P (Profit, People, Planet) sustainability framework will help boost corporate performance. PROPER ranks firms into five categories from Black to Gold; non-compliance leading to Red or Black can attract public and investor pressure and may trigger administrative penalties, fines, permit revocation, and civil or criminal lawsuits.

Komdigi Prepares New Social Media Registration Rules to Tackle Underage Manipulation

Indonesia's Ministry of Communications and Digital (Komdigi) signals forthcoming regulation changing how social media accounts are registered, aiming to curb age manipulation. Meta says it already has age verification mechanisms and that device- or ecosystem-based verification could be more effective. The move comes as Roblox Indonesia prepares to migrate around 23 million under-16 accounts to an age-based system, highlighting digital safety and regulatory priorities in the AI era.

Miss Venezuela Allegedly Assaulted in Cannes: Here Is the Timeline

A viral video from Cannes shows Andrea del Val alleging assault by Venezuelan stylist Giovanni Laguna, with the hotel room in disarray as evidence. Police were summoned amid reports of a confrontation during the Cannes Film Festival, and Andrea has pledged to provide further details as investigations continue.

Indonesia to Hold Further Negotiations on Export of 500,000 Tonnes of Rice to Malaysia

Bulog says a follow-up negotiation team will pursue arrangements for exporting about 500,000 tonnes of rice to Malaysia, focusing on delivery logistics and pricing. An initial agreement was reached in Surabaya with Sarawak delegates; options include port-to-port shipping or cross-border movement via Kalimantan to Sarawak. The price is being discussed around Rp 16,000 per kilogram (about 3.7 Malaysian ringgit) with a preference to safeguard farmers' margins and national interests as directed by President Prabowo Subianto.

Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia to Become a State-Owned Enterprise Next Week

Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, CEO of BPI Danantara, announced that PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) will transform into a state-owned enterprise from next week. The government says DSI will oversee exports of strategic natural-resource commodities, with initial three-month operations where export records are managed by DSI, before it becomes the primary operator of export management. The reform aims to tackle under-invoicing and transfer pricing, with quarterly evaluations ahead of a full transition.

Purbaya Says the Fate of the Director General of Customs Will Be Decided Next Week: I Will Follow the President's Orders

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa said he would follow President Prabowo Subianto's instructions on whether to remove Director General of Customs Djaka Budi Utama, after the official's name surfaced in an alleged import corruption case. He added he would monitor developments before deciding. Prosecutors allege there was a meeting between Djaka Budi Utama and bribery suspect John Field at the Borobudur Hotel; the officer in charge said he was ordered to arrange the meeting and did not know the reason.

New Commercial Area Offers a Multifunctional Concept for Business Operators

CitraGarden City launches Solea Terrace, a three-storey shophouse product at Sunset Avenue in West Jakarta. The project combines commercial space with lifestyle experiences, featuring a rooftop terrace with lake and sunset views and a multifunctional layout. It aims to position Sunset Avenue as a new lifestyle hub, supported by nearby residential communities and strategic connectivity to toll roads and Soekarno–Hatta International Airport.

Stealth Internet Cables Reappear in Badung, Unruly Providers Face Sanctions

In Badung Regency, Bali, illicit 'stealth' internet cables have resurfaced despite repeated cleanups by the Badung Regency's Integrated Utilities Task Force and Apjatel Bali. The joint enforcement operation with Satpol PP aims to tighten monitoring and penalties as many providers operate without official permits or adequate budgets to underground cables, with authorities set to identify owners and enforce sanctions. The crackdown targets strategic tourism, industrial zones and densely populated areas with a phased undergrounding programme.

Murder Suspect in Serang Garden Hanging Briefly Fled to Tangsel

A woman was found dead, hanged in a garden in Gelam, Cipocok Jaya, Serang City. Police say the victim sustained multiple injuries and the investigation is ongoing; a suspect who fled to Tangerang Selatan was arrested and faces charges under the Indonesian Penal Code for premeditated murder and/or murder.

Finance Minister Purbaya Proud of Indonesia's Economy as It Grows 5.61%

Indonesia's economy expanded by 5.61% year-on-year in Q1 2026, the strongest since 2022, driven by household consumption, investment, and prudent government spending. The government emphasised fiscal resilience and called for caution in digital finance literacy and ethics amid rapid AI adoption.