Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 May 2026

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BI records US$4 billion current account deficit in Q1, the worst since 2019

Bank Indonesia reported a US$4 billion current account deficit for the first quarter of 2026, amounting to 1.1% of GDP, widening from US$2.5 billion (0.7% of GDP) in Q4 2025. The deficit is the largest since Q4 2019, though BI asserts it remains low, with trade balances showing mixed signals as oil and gas deficits rise and non-oil and gas surpluses persist.

Key Causes of the Argo Bromo Anggrek Collision with the KRL: Signalling and Communications

The KNKT’s preliminary findings identify three main causes of the Argo Bromo Anggrek collision with a KRL near Bekasi Timur: a signalling anomaly between Bekasi and Bekasi Timur, miscommunication within the Train Control Centre, and visibility issues affecting signalling perception. The driver attempted emergency braking around 300 metres from a block signal, but the collision could not be avoided due to operational communications and braking instructions.

BPOM Releases List of 22 Brands of Natural-Origin Medicines Containing Hazardous Drug Substances

BPOM has identified 22 brands of Obat Bahan Alam (OBA) — natural-origin medicines — that were found to contain Bahan Kimia Obat (BKO) during surveillance in March 2026, including 13 men's stamina products. Ten of the brands already hold a NIE (Nomor Izin Edar), while 12 lack NIE or display fictitious NIE on their packaging. The regulator warns of serious health risks and commits to taking firm action against illicit producers and distributors while seeking to raise public awareness of the risks.

31 Ships Transiting the Strait of Hormuz Under IRGC Guard

IRGC says at least 31 commercial vessels safely transited the Strait of Hormuz in the last 24 hours under its naval protection, despite US military activity in the Persian Gulf. Iran has established a zoned management regime for Hormuz traffic, requiring coordination, paperwork and possible security fees, with IRGC oversight favouring ships linked to Tehran’s allies. The report underscores Tehran's growing control over a pivotal shipping lane with potential implications for global trade.

KNKT reveals Argo Bromo Anggrek braked 1.3 km before crash in Bekasi

The KNKT said the Argo Bromo Anggrek train braked 1.3 kilometres after receiving news of a collision ahead and sounded its horn while slowing. The driver followed instructions from the Manggarai operations control centre, but investigators have not yet determined the main cause; data is still being collected to build a complete timeline, with a final report and safety recommendations expected in two to three months. The Transport Minister said his office awaits KNKT results, as the Bekasi incident left 124 injured including 16 fatalities.

Kemdiktisaintek: Investigation into Alleged Sexual Violence at Universitas Indonesia Still Ongoing

The Director General for Higher Education, Khairul Munadi, says the investigation into alleged sexual violence at the Faculty of Law, Universitas Indonesia is proceeding in accordance with regulations. He urges all parties not to jump to conclusions, and emphasizes objective handling with victim protection, as the Task Force for Prevention and Handling Violence in Higher Education continues the inquiry; there is no final conclusion yet and coordination with the university aims to ensure justice and accountability.

Defence Minister Sjafrie Unveils Plan to Turn Kertajati Airport into Hercules Aircraft Maintenance Workshop

The Indonesian government intends to convert Kertajati Airport in Majalengka, West Java, into an Asia‑region maintenance hub for C‑130/Hercules aircraft. The plan followed talks with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington, with President Prabowo Subianto noted as approving it; the site already hosts Garuda Maintenance Facilities’ MRO operations and could be expanded, while the airport has also served haj departures since 2024.

20 Students Earn Honours at ITPLN's 48th Graduation Ceremony

Twenty high-achieving ITPLN students were highlighted at the PLN Institute of Technology’s 48th graduation, alongside 424 graduates who will join more than 12,000 ITPLN alumni. PLN leaders stressed the graduates’ responsibilities to uphold the PLN name and to drive Indonesia’s energy transition, with 78 top graduates offered direct roles at PT PLN (Persero). The event underscored ITPLN’s aim to cultivate leaders in energy and technology for the national industry.

DPR Hajj Oversight Team to Summon Ministry of Hajj to Evaluate Peak Hajj Preparations

Indonesia's DPR Hajj Oversight Team has said it will summons the Ministry of Hajj and related stakeholders to discuss and evaluate the peak preparations for this year's pilgrimage. Lead member Marwan Dasopang notes that current arrangements are largely on track, but stresses contingency planning for Armuzna, including transport and health measures for pilgrims.

Ministry of Creative Economy backs promotion of jamu to global markets

Indonesia's Ministry of Creative Economy will back the development of jamu as a health product and promote jamu exports through digital platforms, branding, and intellectual property rights. It will work with the Indonesian Jamu Council and promote international markets, including organising The 2nd Jamu International Conference & Expo (JICE) in October 2026 to advance global promotion of jamu.

Excellent! Jogja Financial Festival 2026 Becomes a Job-Seeking Platform

Jogja Financial Festival 2026 kicks off in Yogyakarta on 22–23 May at the Jogja Expo Center, blending financial education with entertainment and a career corner where attendees can seek employment. Participants include jobseekers such as a media professional and a new IT graduate, both pursuing roles at organisations like detikcom and Allobank. The event features Business Talks with speakers from UGM and the Yogyakarta governor, along with stand‑up comedy, music performances, and a Jogja Run 5K/10K race, all aimed at boosting financial literacy and industry networking.

Petrokimia Gresik Strengthens Gas Supply to Safeguard National Fertiliser Production

Petrokimia Gresik, a member of Pupuk Indonesia, signs gas sales agreements with Husky-CNOOC Madura Limited and Ketapang II Ltd to secure an additional 30-35 MMSCFD of gas, extending supply to 2035 and reinforcing fertiliser production and national food security. The move highlights cross-sector collaboration between the fertiliser and energy sectors to bolster Indonesia’s energy resilience for agriculture.

Latest Tecno, Infinix and Itel smartphone prices as of 22 May 2026

As of 22 May 2026, prices for Tecno, Infinix and Itel handsets from the Transsion brands remained largely stable compared with 15 May 2026, though some models saw price adjustments (for example, Tecno Camon 50 12 GB/256 GB fell to Rp 4,459,000). Prices are gathered from official vendor sites and marketplace stores, noting that availability and prices can change.

Government Increases Food Aid During El Niño Period, Rice Rations of 10 kg

The Indonesian government plans to expand Banpang, distributing rice-only aid to counter the drought linked to El Niño Godzilla. The programme will provide 10 kg of rice per recipient per month, across four disbursements from August to November, targeting 33 million recipients and totaling about 1.3 million tonnes, with 2026's Banpang reaching 1.9 million tonnes in all.

KPPPA: Gender mainstreaming is the key to the success of national development

Gender mainstreaming is essential for inclusive and sustainable national development, delivering equal benefits to women and men across economy, education, infrastructure, health and leadership. The Ministry highlights continuing gaps in labour participation and pay, the dominance of women in the informal sector, and challenges in developing women-owned micro-enterprises. It calls for gender-responsive policies in health, transport and infrastructure to support more inclusive growth.

Attorney General's Office uncovers the role of PT QSS's beneficial owner in West Kalimantan IUP corruption case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has charged the beneficial owner of PT QSS, identified as SDT, in connection with suspected corruption involving the misgovernance of a mining licence (IUP) for PT QSS in West Kalimantan from 2017 to 2025. SDT allegedly acquired PT QSS that held an Exploration IUP through a governor's decree; in 2018, PT QSS obtained a Production Operation IUP and RKAB without proper due diligence, and then exported bauxite using PT QSS documents without mining in the IUP area. The case highlights alleged regulatory breaches and collusion with state actors, with SDT detained for 20 days.

Hana Bank Posts Net Profit of Rp 200.78 Billion in Q1 2026

Hana Bank reported a first-quarter net profit of Rp 200.78 billion for Q1 2026, up 23.84% year on year, with assets rising to Rp 54.60 trillion. The bank highlighted growth in lending and deposits, and maintained a strong capital position, guiding for further expansion in 2026.

Loyalty Appreciation Draw Held by Bank Artha Graha Internasional for BAGI HOKI Period I

Bank Artha Graha Internasional has conducted the BAGI HOKI period I draw for 2026, with a Rp1 billion top prize and thousands of other rewards. The draw was held transparently in Jakarta under notary and government oversight, ahead of the August 2026 second draw as customers continue to accrue points through daily transactions. The bank emphasises transparency and digitalisation as it expands its loyalty programme.

The World Grows Bleaker as Elon Musk Burns Through Rp366 Trillion

SpaceX has outlined a sweeping plan to build advanced systems and pursue multiplanetary life, including a potential public listing with detailed financial disclosures. Despite revenue of US$18.7 billion last year, it posted losses and foresees continued losses into 2026, even as it identifies trillions of dollars in AI and connectivity opportunities; the piece also highlights societal concerns over AI and misinformation.

Middle East Conflict: IEA Says the World Is Losing 14 Million Barrels of Oil Supply Per Day

The International Energy Agency warns that global oil demand may be weakening as the Middle East crisis persists, with high energy prices and disrupted supply routes. It estimates about 14 million barrels per day of oil supply are being lost due to distribution and production disruptions, a figure higher than the 1970s crises, and stresses the urgency of reopening the Strait of Hormuz to stabilise markets.

Purbaya Unveils Prabowo's Economic Strategy, Not Just About MBG

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says Prabowo's economic strategy extends beyond the MBG programme, focusing on mobilising the private sector. He describes moving Rp200 trillion of the APBN into the banking system to stimulate lending, and notes that the deficit improved from 0.93% of GDP in Q1-2026 to 0.64% in April, helped by tax and customs reforms. He emphasises fiscal sustainability going forward.

Jakarta Provincial Government Clamps Down on 13 Illegal Parking Attendants in Blok M; to be given coaching

A joint operation on 21 May 2026 led by the South Jakarta Transport Office removed 13 illegal parking attendants (jukirs) from Blok M and transported them for coaching. The crackdown aims to uphold public order and public safety in busy spaces, with a humane, guidance-based approach to prevent reoffending and ongoing monitoring at hotspot parking sites.

LPS Chief Reveals Financial Paradox and the Importance of Digitally Literate Youth

CNBC Indonesia, in association with the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS), announced Jogja Financial Festival 2026 to take place in Yogyakarta on 22–23 May 2026, featuring a programme of financial literacy activities, investment education and youth-focused events. The event seeks to develop a financially mature younger generation amid rapid AI-driven digital change, and stresses that Indonesia must balance technological progress with ethics and financial responsibility.

Pakistan's interior minister in Tehran delivers US message

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, on a second visit to Tehran this week, conveyed a message from the United States to Iranian officials as negotiations mediated by Pakistan continue on a framework agreement. Tehran is pressing for separate talks on its nuclear program within 30 days of a permanent ceasefire, while Washington wants the nuclear issue resolved beforehand; the ceasefire, in force since 8 April, has yet to yield a lasting deal, and the US continues to block ships through the Strait.

Transport Minister: Addressing 1,638 Level Crossings Requires Only Rp800 Billion from Rp4 Trillion Budget

Indonesia's Transport Ministry estimates that addressing 1,638 railway level crossings would cost about Rp800 billion, far below the Rp4 trillion allocated by the government. The plan includes aligning funding with the construction of flyovers and underpasses, with potential guard posts and other safety measures to reduce future accidents.

Student clashes end in the burning of USK Aceh's Faculty of Agriculture

The Banda Aceh City Police's Criminal Investigation Unit is probing the fire that damaged the Faculty of Agriculture at Syiah Kuala University after clashes between university groups. Preliminary findings indicate student rivalry between agriculture and engineering faculties, with injuries and arson prompting calls for calm and reinforced security, and USK has issued a Rector's Regulation on student ethics.

Hosting PON 2032: Banten Will Not Rely on the National Budget to Build Facilities

Banten Province has been designated to host the 2032 Pekan Olahraga Nasional (PON XXIII) alongside Lampung, following KONI's Musornaslub decision. While the central government funding for facilities around the BIS is being sought, some improvements will be financed from APBD, including parking facilities, with completion targeted by 2030 and a 2031 evaluation to refine facilities. The move is expected to bolster regional infrastructure, economic growth, tourism, and local sporting prowess, and to prompt collaboration among government, KONI, universities, and industry.

Excellent! Jogja Financial Festival 2026 Becomes a Job-Hunting Platform

Jogja Financial Festival 2026 in Yogyakarta opened today, blending financial literacy with entertainment and a career corner where attendees can seek employment. Participants include Yohan, an ISI Yogyakarta graduate now in national media, and Dias Mahendra of UTY, who is applying for a Data Analyst role at Allobank. The event runs on 22-23 May at the Jogja Expo Center and features business talks, educational classes, performances by top artists, and a Jogja Run D-City race.

It turns out Iran is stronger than Trump thought; new evidence shows it can beat the United States

Iran has restarted drone production during a six-week ceasefire with the United States, and intelligence sources say it could rapidly rebuild its military capabilities, potentially within six months. The report questions claims that US-Israeli strikes have substantially degraded Iran's military and notes allegations of Chinese assistance, which Tehran denies; the US maintains its military strength.

Minister of Religious Affairs Warns MAN IC Serpong: Do Not Keep Its Success Hidden From Other Madrasahs

In Serpong, Minister Nasaruddin Umar inaugurated MAN Insan Cendekia Serpong as a madrasah with the International Baccalaureate curriculum, urging it to share knowledge with other madrasahs. He cautioned against arrogance and warned against keeping its successes secret, arguing openness brings new knowledge for all. The ceremony was attended by the Presidential Chief of Staff and other senior officials.

Distribution and Logistics Become Key Drivers of SME Growth

Distribution and logistics are increasingly seen as key drivers of SME growth amid intensifying digital competition. JNE's JLC programme, which has over 1 million members, named 24 winners—six national and 18 regional—with top national winners receiving a BYD Atto 1 and regional winners receiving a 15-gram gold bar or a motorcycle. JNE's chief executive linked SME activity to the logistics company's growth, underscoring the strategy of loyalty programmes in sustaining parcel volumes.

Greenland's Prime Minister Nielsen to miss opening of new US consulate in Nuuk

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen will not attend the opening of the United States' new consulate in Nuuk, underscoring ongoing tensions with Washington. The decision follows similar reluctance from a Greenland MP to attend US consulate events, amid broader interest from the United States in Greenland's Arctic resources.

Ex-TNI Soldier Arrested after Stealing Three Women’s Motorbikes

An ex-TNI soldier was arrested in West Lombok after allegedly taking and selling motorcycles belonging to three women in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara. Investigators say PAA operated with a similar modus operandi in three incidents from April to May 2026, borrowing motorcycles and then reselling or pawning them without the owners’ knowledge. He faces charges under Article 486 of Law No. 1 of 2023 on the Indonesian Penal Code as police continue to probe the case.

Bantargebang Near Capacity, Jakarta Relies on RDF to Convert Waste into Energy

Jakarta's government is promoting Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) technology to tackle the capital's waste problem, aiming to relieve Bantargebang TPST which is nearing capacity. The RDF Plant Rorotan in North Jakarta is intended to process up to 2,500 tonnes of waste per day, potentially reducing the daily waste sent to Bantargebang from 7,800 tonnes. The plan includes a household waste sorting programme to ensure RDF receives mostly inorganic waste, with a phased rollout to minimise environmental impact.

KPK Periksa Bos Money Changer Usut Uang Suap Pejabat Bea Cukai

The Indonesian anti-corruption body (KPK) is questioning the owner of a money changer, Deisy Syam, in connection with alleged bribes and facilitation involving Blueray Cargo boss John Field and customs officials. The inquiry centers on foreign exchange transactions by a suspect in the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, Sisprian Subiaksono, and follows a broader corruption case that led to multiple arrests. A court disclosure on 20 May revealed a Singapore dollar envelope worth 213,600 with the code Sales 2-1 DIR.

KPK probes Telkom partner appointment in Pertamina SPBU digitalisation

Indonesia's anti-corruption commission (KPK) is deepening its probe into the appointment of Telkom Indonesia's partner in Pertamina's SPBU digitalisation, with seven witnesses questioned on 21 May 2026. The inquiry covers alleged corruption from 2018–2023 and has named three suspects, with identities partly disclosed; the probe is proceeding alongside a calculation of state losses with BPK.

Amazing! Trans Luxury Hotel Surabaya Guests Can Enjoy Skyline Panorama

The Trans Luxury Hotel Surabaya has soft-opened in central Surabaya, offering premium stays and introductory promotions for selected payment methods, with rates starting at IDR 999,000 nett per night including breakfast for two adults and two children. The hotel features the 28th Sky Beach Club and a range of dining and wellness facilities, aiming to position itself as a premier premium hospitality destination in Surabaya.

PB Orado Officially Registered as a Member of KONI Central, Domino Becomes a High-Performance Sport

Domino has been officially recognised as a high‑performance sport following PB Orado's registration as a KONI Central member. KONI officials say the move will strengthen athlete development and support the sport's growth to national and international levels, with plans for broader organisational consolidation across provinces and districts.

Rising Operating Costs Force Sumber Alam Bus Operator to Fight to Survive

Rising operating costs driven by Rupiah volatility and planned tax hikes push bus operators to rethink pricing. Operators are rationalising fleets to cut costs without passing hikes immediately to passengers. They warn that if economic conditions do not improve or fuel policies change, ticket prices will have to rise.

Commander Leads Change-of-Command Ceremony as Brigadier General M Nas Officially Becomes Head of the TNI Information Centre

General Agus Subiyanto presided over a formal change-of-command ceremony at the Gatot Subroto Hall, TNI Headquarters, Jakarta, transferring several strategic posts. The appointment includes Brigadier General Muhammad Nas taking over as Head of the TNI Information Centre (Kapuspen TNI) from Major General Aulia Dwi Nasrullah, with Nas slated for a rank promotion. The ceremony was attended by senior TNI officials and was announced in a press release on 22 May 2026.

Locomotive Disruption at Senen Station, Six Long-Distance Trains Delayed

Six long-distance train services were delayed following a locomotive issue at Pasar Senen. Jakarta's KAI Daop 1 said recovery work was underway, with some trains held at Jatinegara and others departing later; officials expected normal service to resume by around 1.30pm WIB.

Mojtaba Khamenei Issues Directive: Enriched Uranium Must Remain in Iran

Tehran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is reported to have issued a directive barring the export of enriched uranium, including material near weapon-grade. The directive, cited by Reuters and Al Arabiya, tightens Iran's stance in Pakistan-brokered talks with the United States, and could complicate efforts to end the conflict. The International Atomic Energy Agency previously estimated Iran's 60% enriched uranium stock at about 440.9 kilograms after the 2025 bombardments.

KDKMP Cooperative Store Layout Criticised for Not Following Planogram, What Is It?

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated the operation of 1,061 Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP). Netizens criticised the internal product display in the cooperatives, arguing it resembled an ill-ordered shop rather than a modern retailer, sparking online discussion about merchandising and planograms. The article explains what a planogram is and its role in guiding shelf layouts and sales.

Response to 110 Complaint, Police Destroy Dozens of PETI Rigs in Kuansing

Police in Kuansing responded to a 110 call reporting PETI activity. They found 13 PETI setting frames at the site and destroyed them on the spot by burning and crushing; no suspects were found, though several PETI rafts were observed. Authorities urged residents to report illegal activities and said they would continue to follow up to maintain security and environmental protection.

BTN-KAI to Prepare Housing Near Manggarai Station as Manggarai to Become Jakarta’s ‘New City’

KAI and BTN are steering an integrated vertical housing project around Manggarai Station, envisaged as Jakarta's second CBD, stretching over 62 hectares and including premium amenities. Groundbreaking is slated for July 2026, with completion targeted by late 2027, featuring two blocks (G and F) with thousands of units spanning affordable and premium segments to reduce commuting costs for workers.

In front of thousands of students, Purbaya presents evidence of Indonesia's strong economy

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa told thousands of students at the Jogja Financial Festival 2026 that Indonesia's economy is healthy, citing resilient consumer confidence and rising consumption and investment. He highlighted April 2026 indicators, including a consumer confidence index of 123, a 55% rise in car sales and 28.1% in motorcycles, and a Q1 2026 GDP growth of 5.61% year-on-year as evidence of robust growth.

Heavy machinery breakdown on Jalan Raya Bogor triggers congestion, traffic back to normal

Traffic on Jalan Raya Bogor in East Jakarta was congested this morning after heavy equipment malfunction prevented loading onto a trailer. Officials said the incident was not caused by a breakdown of a truck; traffic was temporarily managed with contraflow, and by 07:45 WIB conditions had returned to normal.

DIY Governor Sri Sultan Highlights Online Lending, Describes the 'Debt Trap' Phenomenon

DIY Governor Hamengku Buwono X warned that the rapid growth of digital finance and BNPL risks pushing people toward consumption and debt rather than empowering them. He cited high levels of online lending and a rising number of borrowers, and described the 'debt trap' phenomenon as evidence that easy access without financial literacy accelerates hardship. He urged stronger financial literacy and greater digital financial inclusion for small traders and the elderly, while noting that the national QRIS system continues to expand.

US bans entry of African nationals amid Ebola outbreak

The United States has imposed a 21-day pre-arrival entry ban on foreign nationals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, and South Sudan due to the Ebola outbreak, effective for 30 days with possible extension; U.S. citizens and green card holders may enter but face stricter screening; WHO has declared Ebola outbreaks emergencies.

Many Indonesians Feel Life Is Hard: Here Is Purbaya's Answer

At the Jogja Financial Festival 2026, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa addressed concerns that life feels hard despite official data showing solid growth. He argued that consumption remains robust and suggested that social media narratives may exaggerate hardship, noting government spending's modest contribution to growth and that purchasing power remains relatively strong.

Lazisnu and Baznas Allocate Rp2.6 Billion for Pesantren MSMEs in Poverty-Prone Areas

NU Care-Lazisnu, in partnership with Baznas, is committing Rp2.6 billion to develop 200 MSMEs in four poverty-prone districts, with Rp2 billion funded by Baznas RI and Rp600 million by Lazisnu PBNU. The programme aims for long-term community self-reliance, beginning with 50 MSMEs in each area and prioritising the food and beverage sector.

Binus Campus Fire Extinguished by Nine O’Clock

A fire struck Binus Anggrek Campus in Kemanggisan, West Jakarta, on Friday morning. Firefighters deployed 14 fire engine units and 70 personnel to the auditorium and extinguished the blaze by 09:40 WIB, with authorities still assessing the cause and any casualties. The firefighting operation began at 05:41 WIB, and officials say conditions on-site have gradually become safe as post-fire monitoring continues.

Fatayat NU Urges UNU to Probe Allegations of Sexual Violence by a UNU Lecturer

Fatayat NU Blitar has urged Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama (UNU) Blitar to take decisive action in response to allegations of sexual violence by a UNU lecturer against several students. The group demands a thorough, impartial investigation and the imposition of firm sanctions, including permanent dismissal, citing multiple victims and repeated abuse of power. UNU Blitar has already temporarily suspended the lecturer and stated it will pursue a legal decision in line with its policy of zero tolerance.

Deputy National Police Chief, Transport Minister and DPR Commission III Chairman Attend 2026 Lantas Function Technical Working Conference

Senior Indonesian officials including the Deputy Chief of Police, the Minister of Transportation and the Chairman of DPR Commission III attend the 2026 Rakernis Fungsi Lantas, focusing on digitalising traffic policing and public services, culminating in the launch of SIM Digital and ETLE Drone as part of Polri's Presisi transformation.

Officials Still Investigating the Green Signal That Went Green Before Argo Bromo Anggrek Crashed Into a KRL

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi says the green signal granted to Argo Bromo Anggrek prior to its collision with a commuter train at Bekasi Timur is being fully investigated by the KNKT, with the probe still ongoing. He declined to comment on possible operator error, deferring to KNKT and police investigations as casualties are involved. KNKT has outlined the sequence of events surrounding Bekasi station and the moment the green signal was issued for Bromo Anggrek.

Former Commissioner, Hashim Says Prabowo Has a Deep Understanding of the Oil and Gas Sector

Special Envoy for Energy and Climate Hashim asserts that President Prabowo Subianto possesses a deep understanding of the oil and gas sector’s needs, drawn from Prabowo’s prior seven-year tenure as Chairman of the Board of Hashim’s oil company operating in Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan. He argues that leadership with practical industry experience can secure legal certainty, contract sanctity, and stable fiscal terms to attract and retain global investment, even in challenging contexts. He emphasises that investors require clear contracts, political stability, and safety; without these, investment would depart Indonesia.

Fire at Binus Anggrek in West Jakarta Causes Traffic to Grind to a Halt

Fire at Binus Anggrek campus in West Jakarta caused a temporary traffic gridlock on Jalan Rawa Belong as four fire engines blocked the road; firefighting operations were winding down by around 10:50 a.m. and the campus area was secured, with police investigating the blaze.

How many days is the 2026 Eid al-Adha holiday? Here is the full schedule.

The Indonesian government has set the 2026 Lebaran Haji (Idul Adha) holiday as two consecutive days, with one national holiday and one joint leave day. Additional public holidays fall after this period, and the policy clarifies that joint leave reduces annual leave for most workers, but not for civil servants.

BPKN Urges MK to Regulate Quota Accumulation or Refund Mechanisms to Prevent Expired Internet Quotas

The Indonesian Constitutional Court heard testimony from YLKI and BPKN regarding expired internet quotas. They urged the Court to regulate mechanisms such as rollover, extensions or refunds to safeguard consumer rights in a digital economy.

Don't Run a Marathon Just for Content: The Dangers of Running Without Preparation

Urban youths increasingly participate in marathons and high-intensity sports to stay fit and gain online visibility. The piece highlights the health risks of running without proper preparation, including hidden hypertension and atrial fibrillation, which can lead to cardiac events. Experts warn that marathon prep requires not just training but medical checks.

Religious Affairs Minister Inaugurates MAN Insan Cendekia Serpong as an IB World School

The MAN IC Serpong, a state Islamic secondary school, has been officially recognised as an IB World School following an inaugural ceremony led by the Minister of Religious Affairs. The move underscores the government's push to offer globally recognised education with Indonesian teachers, aligned with Habibie’s vision of world-class science education grounded in faith.

Baznas launches Balai Ternak to strengthen the economy of mustahik livestock farmers in Tegal

Baznas, in collaboration with the Tegal Regency government and UIN Walisongo Semarang, launched the Balai Ternak programme in Danawarih, Balapulang, to empower a community-based livestock economy and advance the transformation of mustahik into muzaki. The initiative aims to strengthen local livestock productivity and support sustainable economic independence for mustahik in Tegal, involving 15 farmers and 92 head of livestock.

Suspect's Modus Operandi in Bogus BLN Cooperative Investment Promises Victims Large Profits

A police briefing in Semarang reveals that the BLN Cooperative is marketing several savings products, including 'Sipintar', which promises monthly returns and a 24-year term, with deposits ranging from Rp 1.2 million to Rp 2 billion. Officers warn that the scheme may resemble a Ponzi, with escalating promised profits such as 100% in year two, alongside two other products offering 2% returns. The investigation highlights potential financial crime and regulatory concerns surrounding cooperative offerings.

Here's How Sultan Hamengkubuwono X Fights Loan Sharks and Illegal Online Lenders

At Jogja Financial Festival 2026, the Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta outlined plans to curb loan sharks and illegal online lending, emphasising financial literacy and community empowerment as foundations of development. He warned that money should serve people, not dominate efforts, and urged a broader horizon for financial literacy.

DPR Member Says Sexual Violence Case at UPN Veteran Yogyakarta Has Become an Emergency

DPR Deputy Speaker Lalu Hadrian Irfani (Ari) has described the sexual violence case involving a lecturer at UPN Veteran Yogyakarta as an emergency, following student protests at the rectorate. He urged a transparent, victim-centred investigation with protective measures for victims and called for strengthened campus governance, including effective work by Satgas PPKS and rapid action by the Rector. The episode has intensified long-standing concerns about abuse of power in Indonesian higher education and prompted demands for accountability from campus authorities and oversight bodies.

Binus Campus Fire: Five Fire Engines Deployed

A fire broke out at Binus Anggrek Campus in Kemanggisan, West Jakarta, on Friday morning, leading to the deployment of at least five fire engines and around 30 firefighters. The blaze produced thick smoke and operations focused on localisation and ventilation; there were no reported casualties, and the fire was brought under control by 09:40 WIB. Traffic around Jalan Rawa Belong was disrupted due to firefighting activity.

UN humanitarian agency fights to contain disease outbreaks in Sudan

UN OCHA says aid workers in Sudan are tackling dengue fever, mpox and suspected cholera amid insecurity and restricted access. In El Nuhud, West Kordofan, WHO and partners are addressing suspected acute watery diarrhoea linked to cholera, with over 100 suspected cases and dozens of deaths; in Darfur, mpox is being addressed in Central and South Darfur with more than 300 suspected cases and five deaths, while dengue outbreaks are reported in Northern and River Nile states. OCHA warns that civilians and humanitarian operations are at risk due to insecurity, drone strikes around Dilling causing casualties and damage, and calls for protection of civilians, safe access and sustained funding to deliver life-saving aid.

VinFast Considers Adding a Speedometer to the VF MPV 7

VinFast Indonesia is examining the addition of a conventional speedometer panel to the VF MPV 7 following consumer feedback. Currently, speed data appears only on the central infotainment screen, forcing drivers to glance at the dashboard centre. The company says updating the instrument cluster would require homologation, delaying changes to the locally produced model; a facelift is more plausible for introducing such a feature, and they will try to accommodate Indonesian consumer requests.

Fire at West Jakarta Plastic Factory Still Not Extinguished After Four Days

A plastic factory in West Jakarta has been burning for four days with cooling operations ongoing to prevent rekindling. Four fire engines and twenty personnel were deployed, and a robot was used to inspect the interior for hazards as injuries were reported.

The Gofar Fault Mystery: Why Did the Magnitude 6 Earthquake Off Ecuador's Coast Happen Like Clockwork?

Scientists have identified natural braking zones on the Gofar transform fault off Ecuador that repeatedly prevent ruptures from growing into larger earthquakes, explaining the clockwork-like M6 events every five to six years. The study, published in Science, suggests repeatable barriers dampen stress and confine activity to a near-identical location.

The 20 Largest Oil Companies in the World, Arabs Versus the US and China

Despite a global shift to electric vehicles and green energy, the world's largest oil groups still command trillion-dollar valuations. Together they total roughly USD 5.1 trillion, with Saudi Aramco retaining the top spot at about USD 1.8 trillion. While the US dominates in terms of company count, Aramco remains the largest single entity, and Europe remains influential through Shell, BP and TotalEnergies as the energy transition continues.

Purbaya Opens Up About Becoming Finance Minister and Losing 10 kg in Eight Months

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has joked about his time in office, noting a 10-kilogram weight loss since becoming minister. He made the remarks at the Jogjakarta Financial Festival in Jogja Expo Centre, telling CT Corp founder Chairul Tanjung that his salary as head of LPS is higher than as finance minister. He has served nine months, having replaced Sri Mulyani who resigned.

IHSG Opens Lower at 6,065.63, Analyst: Still Volatile

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened weaker on Friday morning at 6,065.63, with the LQ45 index also slipping. Analysts expect continued volatility as market sentiment tracks the rupiah, foreign fund flows, geopolitical tensions, and domestic policy responses; a breach of key support could signal further downside.

Binus Anggrek Campus Moves to Online Lectures After Fire, Students Baffled by Entry Ban

The Binus Anggrek campus in West Jakarta shifted all classes online after a fire, blocking student entry and prompting disruption on a Friday morning. The change was communicated at short notice as students arrived, with classes rerouted to Zoom until 09:00 WIB. Officials reportedly located the blaze at the auditorium on the fifth floor.

BPOM probes 22 hazardous herbal medicines, majority are sexual enhancement products

BPOM’s March 2026 surveillance identified 22 Obat Bahan Alam (OBA) brands containing Bahan Kimia Obat (BKO), including 13 aimed at male stamina. Ten already have a NIE, while 12 lack NIE or display fictitious NIE on packaging; the agency warns these unregulated products pose serious health risks and pledges enforcement against illicit manufacturers and distributors.

Superbank posts Rp142 billion profit through April 2026, up 1,528 per cent

Superbank reported a profit before tax of Rp142 billion for the January–April period, up 1,528 per cent year-on-year, with total assets at Rp24 trillion and lending reaching Rp12.2 trillion (up 55.4%). The growth reflects disciplined execution of an ecosystem-based strategy post-IPO, supported by stronger deposits (DPK) and higher net interest income (NII), as the bank deepens its integration with its digital ecosystem partners.

Police arrest suspect in murder of woman found hanging in a Serang garden, Banten

A woman was found dead, hanging from a tree in a rambutan garden in Gelam, Cipocok Jaya, Serang City. Local police say the suspect has been arrested; autopsy suggests death due to violence rather than suicide, and authorities are still investigating motive and the relationship between victim and suspect.

Wow! Foreign Investors Flock to Purbaya's Global Bonds

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that the government has issued global bonds denominated in USD and euros, attracting strong investor demand of US$3.4 billion. He said the influx of greenbacks would help strengthen the rupiah in the near term and urged dollar holders to sell; the bonds are still in the auction phase with 5-year and 10-year tenors offering coupons of 5.3% and 5.9% respectively.

Purbaya Exposes 10 CPO Firms Paying Minimal Taxes as Dollars Are Smuggled Abroad

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that Indonesian palm oil companies manipulate export prices and under-invoice, leading to reduced state revenue and foreign exchange parked overseas. The disclosure followed a BPK report to President Prabowo Subianto, who ordered action, and the president's plan to channel exports through a single exporter body, the Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI).

Gold Prices Today, 22 May 2026: Antam Products and Global Prices Slump

Gold prices of Antam's bars dipped by Rp 12,000 per gram to Rp 2,788,000 on 22 May 2026, with buyback priced at Rp 2,592,000 per gram. The article also lists prices by weight and tax considerations, and notes a fall in global gold prices to US$4,534.29 per ounce, with June futures down to US$4,535.60.

Man assaults pregnant wife causing bleeding in Manggarai Timur

A man identified by the initials YN in Manggarai Timur is suspected of assaulting his pregnant wife, KK, who is two months pregnant. The assault occurred on 3 May in Golo Ngawan; KK received two nights of intensive treatment before returning home. Police say the case is being handled by the Manggarai Timur Police's Women's and Children's Protection Unit, with doctors reporting the fetus is safe.

Before Buying a Used Honda HR-V, This Is the Part You Must Check

Before buying a used Honda HR-V, buyers should not be swayed by looks or low prices alone. Key checks include the service history, CVT transmission condition on test drives, signs of previous accidents or flood damage, suspension and rack-and-pinion steering wear, an ECU scan if possible, and verifying VIN and engine numbers against STNK/BPKB to avoid legal issues.

Moody’s dan S&P Peringatkan Risiko Skema Ekspor Satu Pintu Indonesia

Moody's and S&P Global Ratings warn of potential risks from Indonesia's plan to centralise the export of strategic commodities through a single-window scheme, signalling potential impacts on investment, trade, and credit ratings. The government has announced a new state enterprise to manage centralised exports, covering coal, crude palm oil and ferroalloys, with mixed implications for the economy and investment climate.

TNI-Polri seek to evacuate the bodies of gold prospectors from Kampung Kawe

Security forces in Papua are coordinating to evacuate the bodies of miners and other victims after an attack by an armed criminal group. The latest reports indicate 11 fatalities at Camp Kali Fis, with around 100–150 people still in Kawe area; access routes have been blocked and evacuation plans involve moving to Dermaga Iwot and on to Boven Digoel Police HQ for processing and support.

Knife slips past security at Incheon International Airport, South Korea — how did it happen?

A small kitchen knife, about nine centimetres in length, passed through security at Incheon International Airport and was found in a passenger’s carry-on on an Etihad Airways flight to Abu Dhabi. The 50-year-old traveller reported the discovery to cabin crew, and authorities said there was no criminal intent, allowing her to continue as scheduled. The incident has raised concerns about security measures at South Korea’s largest airport and will be followed by an official investigation with accountability to be determined.

Fire Breaks Out at Binus University Kebon Jeruk Campus: Here is the Timeline

A fire broke out at Binus University Kebon Jeruk campus, reportedly in the Auditorium on the 4th floor. The fire alarm activated, allowing an orderly evacuation; authorities and fire crews responded and classes were suspended. Investigations are focused on the electrical installation, with no casualties reported at the time of reporting.

Ten Five-Star Airlines According to Skytrax, All from Asia

Skytrax has named ten five-star airlines, with none based in Europe or the United States. The list is led by carriers from Asia and the Middle East, reflecting a sustained push to enhance premium service and passenger experience. Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways and Korean Air are highlighted for their premium cabins, onboard service, and loyalty programmes.

New Trend in the UK: Children Pictured En Masse with Moustaches

Britain’s expanding age-verification rules to curb underage access to adult sites face holes in practice, with a survey by Internet Matters showing about half of 1,000 children can bypass checks, often by drawing moustaches with makeup. The report highlights privacy and data-security concerns and notes tech firms, including Apple, Reddit and Meta, updating services while Discord delays its system amid protests.

Purbaya: If You Have US Dollars, Sell Now

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa urged holders of US dollars in Indonesia to sell immediately, arguing the rupiah will strengthen on the back of a new rule on Devisa Hasil Ekspor Sumber Daya Alam (DHE SDA) and government bond operations. He targets an exchange rate of Rp 15,000 per US$, and notes US$3.4 billion of sales in bonds and other instruments to support dollar supply.

PGN to Undertake CCS Ecosystem and CO₂ Transport Study to Support Low-Carbon Ammonia Development

PGN has signed a Joint Study Agreement at IPA Convex 2026 to study CCS technology as part of advancing a low-carbon ammonia ecosystem in Indonesia. The agreement, with Pertamina's Oil & Gas Holding, Pertamina Hulu Energi and Pupuk Indonesia, will examine technical, legal, economic, and commercial aspects to create an efficient, sustainable low-carbon ammonia supply chain—from carbon capture to CO₂ transport and underground storage. PGN will act as the CO₂ transporter, leveraging existing gas infrastructure and ROW to accelerate CCS integration and support its decarbonisation and clean energy ambitions.

These are the 20 largest oil companies in the world. Is Pertamina among them?

Saudi Aramco tops the list with a market capitalisation of about US$1.8 trillion, well ahead of the combined value of the next five largest publicly listed oil and gas groups. The article also notes that Pertamina is state-owned and unlisted on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, with an estimated valuation of about US$100 billion (IDR 1.71 quadrillion).

Rockfall Closes Km 16 Trenggalek–Ponorogo Road

Rockfall at Km 16 on the Trenggalek–Ponorogo road prompted a closure this morning to safeguard road users. Two-wheeled and private vehicles are diverted via a lower alternative route, while trucks and other large vehicles are not advised to use it. Traffic is being managed to keep the Ponorogo–Trenggalek corridor moving amid the narrow lane.

Delay in DHE Regulation, Purbaya: Many Businesspeople Lobby the Presidential Palace

The Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa comments on the delayed implementation of the Devisa Hasil Ekspor (DHE) for natural resource sectors. He says revisions will take effect from 1 June 2026 and suggests the lobbying influence may have delayed policy rollout, while emphasising reinforced oversight through state banks to strengthen the rupiah.

Raid in Central Jakarta: Police Find Narcotics and Sharp Weapons

Central Jakarta police conducted a dawn raid starting at 01:00 WIB, screening riders for helmet, plate, and passenger violations. They arrested suspects including HMG for alleged narcotics possession and DA for carrying a celurit, and found drugs, a weapon, and other contraband in Gambir and Menteng. The operation, described as a cipta kondisi preventive measure to deter street crime and drug abuse, will be followed by further patrols, with the public urged to report disturbances via call centre 110.

Jogja Financial Festival 2026 Officially Opened!

The Jogja Financial Festival (JFF) 2026 opened at the Jogja Expo Center in Bantul, under the patronage of top government and financial leaders. The two-day event, on 22-23 May, aims to boost financial literacy and inclusion, particularly among youth, and features high-level talks and educational sessions.

South Korean ministry to shun Starbucks vouchers in 'Tank Day' campaign backlash

South Korea's Interior Ministry said it would stop offering products from companies that 'make light' of the country's democratic history after a backlash over Starbucks Korea's 'Tank Day' marketing campaign tied to the 18 May Gwangju uprising. Shinsegae Group, the local licensee, fired Starbucks Korea's chief executive amid criticism, while government ministers urged vigilance and monitoring of misinformation and promised to curb such commercial use of history. The controversy prompted consumer boycotts and apologies, highlighting tensions between marketing practices and democratic memory.

Bank Mandiri Taspen Helps Retired Civil Servants to Remain Productive in Retirement

Sixty-three-year-old Koeswanto, a retired ASN from Purwokerto, keeps himself productive by running a fish pond and a home grocery stall. He credits Bank Mandiri Taspen's Bank Mantap financing and mentoring programme with providing funding and guidance that enables retirees to start new ventures and remain economically independent. The article underlines the need for retirement planning as pension funds alone may not cover all family needs.

IRGC: 31 Vessels Transited the Strait of Hormuz in the Last 24 Hours Under Coordination with Iran

IRGC says 31 ships, including oil tankers and container vessels, crossed the Strait of Hormuz in the last 24 hours under the coordination and protection of the IRGC Navy. Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority has established a controlled maritime zone requiring vessels to obtain clearance before transiting, with defined eastern and western entrances. Tehran says it is cooperating with Oman and international organisations to create a mechanism for safe passage and to develop safe-navigation protocols with the littoral states.

Attorney General's Office Probes Former Director General of Customs Askolani, Probing CPO Trade Practices

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office is examining former Director General of Customs Askolani as a witness in an investigation into alleged irregularities in the export of crude palm oil (CPO) and its derivatives during 2022–2024, with a focus on policies concerning palm oil mill effluent (POME). Investigators have also named 11 suspects, including officials from the Ministry of Industry and the Directorate General of Customs, accused of misclassifying exports to sidestep government controls.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Secures Additional Tents in Arafah for Comfort of Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah promptly addressed discrepancies in tent capacity at Arafah, ordering immediate replacement tents and deploying monitoring to ensure fair access for elderly and disabled pilgrims. It also cracked down on unilateral tent occupancy by Hajj Guidance Groups (KBIH), emphasising government control to ensure equitable and dignified arrangements for Indonesian pilgrims.

At the Jogja Financial Festival 2026, UGM Rector Urges Students to Become Innovators

UGM Rector Ova Emilia welcomed Jogja Financial Festival 2026 in Jogja, warning that while digital financial services offer convenience, they bring risks that require robust financial literacy. She urged students to understand fintech and digital assets beyond traditional topics, and to become innovators and entrepreneurs who contribute to a creative, digital economy in Jogja. The festival, organised by Transmedia with LPS, features Business Talk and Educational Class sessions with government and industry leaders, underscoring Jogja's role as an emerging hub for the economy.

Yogyakarta Residents Embrace the Jogja Financial Festival

Yogyakarta residents and surrounding communities filled the Jogja Expo Center for Jogja Financial Festival 2026, a literacy and education event on personal finance that drew not only financial experts but also key figures from the financial sector and top Indonesian celebrities. Attendees included students, parents, officials, and professionals from institutions such as LPS, the Ministry of Finance, Bank BNI, and Bank Mega, with talks and workshops on managing money, investment, and the rupiah.

Commander appoints TNI officials; Kapuspen to Kapusdalops officially change hands

General Agus Subiyanto, Commander of the TNI, led a handover ceremony for several strategic TNI posts at Gatot Subroto Hall, Mabes TNI, Cilangkap, East Jakarta, on 21 May 2026. Major General Aulia Dwi Nasrullah handed over the post of Kapuspen to Brigadier General Muhammad Nas, while Brigadier General Wawan Pujiatmoko handed Kapusinfolahta to Brigadier General Heldi Wira. The event, attended by senior officers, is part of leadership development to sustain continuity and enhance task execution amid evolving strategic challenges.

Why Create an Export-Focused State-Owned Enterprise? Purbaya: Customs Is Prone to Leakage

Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto has announced the formation of an export-focused state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), to centralise control of exports such as coal, crude palm oil and ferroalloys. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says tighter export oversight is needed to curb under-invoicing and transfer pricing, following concerns that revenue is leaking abroad; the plan aims to channel all exports through DSI. Prabowo has previously flagged under-invoicing as a major driver of national wealth leakage, citing a cumulative US$908 billion in under-invoicing exports from 1991-2024.

Tips to prevent infections for those slaughtering sacrificial animals

Dermatologist Dr. Arini Astasari Widodo urges protective measures for people tasked with slaughtering and processing sacrificial animals during Eid al-Adha to prevent skin problems and infection risks. Recommendations include wearing waterproof gloves and boots, long-sleeve clothing, covering wounds, maintaining hygiene, tetanus vaccination, avoiding touching the face, and seeking timely medical care for serious symptoms.

Susi Pudjiastuti says the formation of DSI supports trade transparency

Former Minister of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Susi Pudjiastuti backs the establishment of PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) as a state-owned enterprise that will serve as the single gateway for export of strategic natural resource commodities (SDA). She argues the move would bolster trade transparency and close gaps in mispricing and under-invoicing, amid calls that such practices drain state revenue. Analysts and officials say DSI could strengthen Indonesia's bargaining power and help align pricing with global market indices.

While Watching TV, East Jakarta Resident Shocked as Bullet Falls from Roof

A Ciracas police chief confirmed that a bullet fell from a roof onto a homeowner in East Jakarta while they were watching television. There were no casualties, but the asbestos ceiling was damaged; the police are investigating the incident and the origin of the weapon used.

Agriculture and Logistics Drive Daihatsu Sales

PT Astra Daihatsu Motor (ADM) reports its vehicle customers remain dominated by productive sectors in both retail and fleet. In retail, the largest buyers come from agriculture, plantations and materials; in fleet, logistics is the biggest contributor, supported by government programmes and Astra financing. This pattern provides steadier demand amid market headwinds and aligns with Daihatsu’s rural penetration strategy.

Puan Highlights 200,000 Children Exposed to Online Gambling, Urges National Digital Literacy Movement

Puan Maharani warned that online gambling exposure among Indonesian children is rising sharply, describing it as a crisis in child protection in the digital space. She cites data indicating nearly 200,000 children exposed, including about 80,000 under 10, and calls for a nationwide, cross-sector digital literacy movement along with stricter regulation and enforcement. She also urged comprehensive audits of site blocking and reinforced the roles of families, schools, and communities in safeguarding children online.

Minister of Law and Human Rights Natalius Pigai Proposes National Special Commission in the Indigenous Peoples Bill

Minister Natalius Pigai says the Indigenous Peoples Bill has entered the DPR RI’s legislative programme, with a plan to form a National Commission on Indigenous Peoples to handle issues and provide state protection plus a justice framework. The government has submitted the official draft to the DPR as part of recognising and protecting adat communities, and the bill is being developed in consultation with Indigenous groups.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Angered by Hajj Jemaah Tents in Arafah Being Partitioned by KBIH Officials: Illegal!

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, ordered the removal of KBIHU identifiers and unofficial banners from the jemaah tents in Arafah and warned of licence revocation for groups found to be partitioning tents. The inspection, conducted with the Hajj Minister Irfan Yusuf, centralises tent management under PPIH to ensure equal services, and flagged capacity shortfalls that could affect rest space for pilgrims.

Diesel Prices Surge as US Fishermen Cry Foul Over Trump’s War

Rising diesel costs driven by heightened Middle East tensions are squeezing the U.S. fishing industry, with crews delaying trips to save fuel and profits shrinking as operating costs climb. The price of diesel has jumped to about $5.63 per gallon, nearing 2022 highs and prompting concerns over global seafood supply chains and prices, including Maine lobster.

Remaining Holidays in May 2026 Include a Long Weekend — Note the Exact Dates

May 2026 has six holidays in total: four national holidays and two collective leave days. Labour Day on 1 May and the Feast of the Ascension on 14–15 May are early in the month, with a long weekend at the end. The distribution across May makes it relatively holiday-friendly, offering opportunities for short trips or mudik before June.

Sultan HB X Shares Lessons in Financial Management at JFF 2026: Gemi, Nastiti, Ngati-ati

The Special Region of Yogyakarta Governor, Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, used the Jogja Financial Festival 2026 to frame financial literacy and prudent spending as essential for sustainable growth, invoking the Javanese philosophy Gemi, Nastiti, Ngati-ati. He urged strengthening financial education, MSME financing, digital finance, and sharia options, emphasising a broader view of financial literacy to curb rising online lending. The event features talks, educational classes, and cultural entertainment, aiming to foster inclusive economic resilience.

Denny JA: If Successful, Prabowo Will Be Remembered as the Father of the Nation's Self-Reliance

Political commentator Denny JA argues that Prabowo's 20 May 2026 speech is more than a routine economic address; it lays out a nationalist, Article 33-based direction for Indonesia's economy aimed at halting capital leakage and aligning markets with national interests. He describes the government as a potential driver of development, citing sectoral planning and state-led investment, and references data on trade surpluses and multi‑decade leakage to illustrate the stakes. If realised, the speech could define Prabowo's legacy as the father of the nation's self-reliance, as he likens Indonesia to a large house with a leaking floor and points to East Asian developmental states like Japan, Korea, and Taiwan as models.

Purbaya: We Will Drive the Rupiah to Rp15,000 per US$!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the new Devisa Hasil Ekspor Sumber Daya Alam (DHE SDA) rule will strengthen the rupiah, with exporters required to park USD with Himbara and retain portions for set periods; he expects significant forex inflows in June and urged dollar holders to sell.

Fire Extinguished at Binus Auditorium in West Jakarta; Cause Still Under Investigation

Firefighters have extinguished a blaze at the Binus University auditorium on the Anggrek campus in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta. The cause remains under investigation, with police involvement; the fire affected only the 5th-floor auditorium, and the campus gate remained closed as crews completed their work.

DPR asks the government to respond quickly to the letter of the China Chamber of Commerce to maintain investor confidence

Indonesian lawmakers urged the government to swiftly respond to a letter from the China Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia addressed to President Prabowo, saying timely action is needed to sustain foreign investor confidence. The chamber highlights alleged corruption, extortion and abuse of authority that disrupt business operations and calls for investigations by police, prosecutors and the KPK; a firm stance against violations is urged to preserve investment appeal. The complaints also cite higher taxes and royalties, tighter foreign exchange rules, nickel ore quota cuts and aggressive enforcement as threats to investment certainty.

Stock Market Trembles, Tycoons Smirk

The Indonesian stock market sinks after President Prabowo Subianto announces that coal, palm oil and other strategic commodities will be channelled through state‑owned enterprises. The piece argues that a distinction must be drawn between market panic and harms to ordinary people, noting that retail investors and margin traders are often the most vulnerable, while entrenched conglomerates may already benefit from capital markets. It cautions against misreading policy moves as mere price movements.

Apple MacBook Air M5 Laptop Officially Arrives in Indonesia, Prices Start at Rp20 Million

Apple has launched the MacBook Air M5 in Indonesia, with the 13-inch model currently on sale and a 15-inch variant also announced. The Indonesian range tops out at 24 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD, with 10-core CPU and 8- or 10-core GPU options, and prices starting at Rp 20 million for the 13-inch version. The device emphasises AI performance, a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display, Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and up to 18 hours of battery life.

Initially Halted, Trump Says He Will Send 5,000 Troops to Poland

US President Donald Trump has said he will deploy an additional 5,000 troops to Poland, after Washington said the earlier deployment plan had been cancelled amid pressure on Europe to look after itself. The remarks reflect ongoing tensions over burdens among NATO allies and sources of conflict in the Middle East.

Fire at Binus Anggrek Campus in West Jakarta: Fire Originated in 5th-Floor Auditorium

A fire at Binus Anggrek Campus in West Jakarta broke out around 05:30 local time, with the blaze centred on the 5th-floor auditorium. Firefighters deployed 12 engines and about 60 personnel, and thick smoke initially hindered operations, though cooling has since completed and hotspots are being extinguished. Investigations are ongoing, with police at the scene to determine the cause as officers sweep the building.

OPM Kopitua Heluka Burns Yahukimo State Junior High School Building After Killing 10 Gold Miners

OPM fighters burned the Koasrama State Junior High School in Dekai, Yahukimo, after killing 10 gold miners, according to the TNI. The operation was led by Major Kopitua Heluka, with the OPM's Kodap XVI Yahukimo claiming responsibility, while Sebby Sambom of the TPNPB said the arson occurred during an ongoing operation. The episode underscores ongoing violence in Papua and the security challenges facing civilians and education infrastructure.

Purbaya: The President Knows Many Entrepreneurs Are Manipulating Prices

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says President Prabowo Subianto's plan to form a dedicated export state-owned enterprise arose from concerns about exporters manipulating prices and widespread under-invoicing. He cites a random sample of 10 palm oil exporters showing patterns of under-invoicing and transfer pricing, arguing export tax revenue is lost and foreign exchange parked overseas.

Tighter USD 25,000 Foreign Currency Purchases to Take Effect in June

Bank Indonesia will tighten purchases of foreign currencies without underlying documentation to USD 25,000 per month from early June, with a one-month transition. The shift follows a prior cut to USD 50,000 and accompanies a weaker rupiah and higher BI Rate, signalling ongoing efforts to stabilise the currency.

Strengthening the Electric Vehicle Ecosystem, PLN Inaugurates the 5,000th SPKLU in Tanjung Priok

PLN inaugurated the 5,000th SPKLU in Indonesia at the SPKLU Center Tanjung Priok, North Jakarta, on 20 May 2026, signaling the expansion of the electric vehicle charging network as part of the government’s net‑zero ambitions. The multi‑charger facility at PLN UP3 Tanjung Priok is designed as a charging service hub with different capacities to support daily EV use and logistics activity.

Ministry of Home Affairs and the National Craft Council equip NTT MSMEs with textile skills

The National Craft Council (Dekranas) under the Ministry of Home Affairs collaborated with Nautika Foundation to provide technical training for textile-focused micro, small and medium enterprises in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara. The programme aims to promote environmentally friendly and sustainable production, sharpen technical skills, and foster product innovation based on natural dyes, with participants largely consisting of young entrepreneurs starting or expanding local, eco-friendly businesses.

Ahead of Idul Adha 2026 long weekend, YIA Airport Rail prepares 84,112 seats

KAI Bandara is provisioning 84,112 seats on its airport rail network in Yogyakarta to handle expected surge in travel to and from Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) during the Idul Adha 2026 long weekend. The operator also launches Flexi tickets offering VIP lounge access and enhanced comfort.

Indonesian nationals detained by Israel set to return to Indonesia this Saturday

Nine Indonesian nationals who were detained by Israel while volunteering in the Global Sumud Flotilla are due to fly home from Türkiye to Indonesia on Saturday (23 May 2026). The return follows their release and is contingent on standard procedures, with the Indonesian government coordinating closely with diplomatic and parliamentary bodies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Commission I of the DPR.

Closing of UMKM Wastra Bimtek, Tri Tito Karnavian Urges Alor Weaving to Be More Adaptive

Tri Tito Karnavian, chairperson of the Dewan Kerajinan Nasional (Dekranas), urged Alor weaving to keep pace with changing times to stay relevant and appealing to younger generations as he brought a Bimtek for UMKM in the Wastra sector to a close. The training, held at Sentra Tenun Gunung Mako in Alor Besar, Alor Regency, NTB? East Nusa Tenggara, on 19 May 2026, emphasised natural dye production and use, with participants mainly youths. The initiative aims to boost technical skills and encourage eco-friendly product innovation.

Brent Breaks Through US$104, Market Nervous as Middle East Conflict Prolongs

Brent crude rose above $104 a barrel amid renewed doubts about a possible US-Iran peace agreement, with markets focusing on global supply risks, especially the Hormuz Strait. Analysts warn of ongoing supply disruption in the Middle East and potential long-term supply concerns even if hostilities ease, while OPEC+ production discussions add further uncertainty.

Wild Monkey Attacks Girl in Marunda, North Jakarta; Origin Under Investigation

Conservation authorities in Jakarta are tracing the origin of a troupe of long-tailed macaques that attacked a girl in Marunda, Cilincing. The attack left the child with 30 stitches, prompting warnings to residents and calls for non-interference with the animals. BKSDA Jakarta is coordinating with other agencies to verify habitat corridors and prevent further incidents.

From Madura to Kupang, Junaidi Dedicates Himself to Sekolah Rakyat

Junaidi, a 25-year-old guidance counsellor from Sampang, Madura, arrives in Kupang and finds that many pupils need attention as much as instruction. Through counselling and preventive services, he helps vulnerable students confront low self-esteem and dream of higher education, illustrating how Sekolah Rakyat aims to break the poverty cycle through education.

Indonesian Volunteer Flotilla Members Detained by Israel: Kicked and Electrocuted

Nine Indonesian citizens involved with the Global Sumud Flotilla have arrived in Istanbul after reporting abuse by Israeli soldiers, including being kicked and electrocuted. The Indonesian government says it will oversee the repatriation and ensure the volunteers return home safely, while medical checks are underway.

DPR Hajj Oversight Team Finds Shortages in Medicine Supply for Pilgrims

Indonesia's DPR Hajj Oversight Team has identified ongoing problems with medicine availability and distribution to satellite health posts serving pilgrims in Mecca. While health services have shown improvements and operate around the clock, distribution to satellites and medicine supply remain constrained, relying on cluster doctors from home regions. The team plans to hand the issue to the Hajj Health Centre head next year to ensure health services and medicines are truly optimal.

Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X Applauds Jogja Financial Festival 2026

Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, attended the first day of Jogja Financial Festival 2026 and spoke of the event as a forum to align policy, culture, knowledge and technology for growth that respects human dignity. He warned that financial access must empower people, not be exploited by consumerism, algorithms and debt, urging contemplation of the true meaning of prosperity and the role of money as a means to uplift life.

KPK probes suspected foreign currency exchange by Sisprian Subiaksono

Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is probing allegations that Sisprian Subiaksono, a suspect in a Customs and Excise corruption case, was involved in foreign currency exchanges. The inquiry includes a statement from a money changer owner and follows a February 2026 arrest operation that led to several suspects being named. Investigators also recovered Rp5.19 billion in cash from a Ciputat residence as part of the ongoing case.

Binus Kebon Jeruk Auditorium After Fire Extinguished

A fire at the Binus campus auditorium in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta, has been extinguished. Fourteen fire engines and seventy personnel were deployed; the operation ended at 09:40 WIB, with the cause still unknown and online teaching temporarily implemented while the building is inspected.

Anggito Abimanyu Says JFF 2026 Will Build a Financially Mature Generation

The Jogja Financial Festival (JFF) 2026 in Yogyakarta aims to boost financial literacy and inclusion, particularly among youth, amid rapid fintech growth led by AI and digital transactions. Anggito Abimanyu, chair of LPS, warns that financial literacy has not kept pace with technology, while emphasising collaboration among regulators, industry, and academia to foster a responsible financial culture.

Gold Price Update Today, 22 May 2026: Antam and Pegadaian Plunge!

Gold prices on Antam and Pegadaian fell on Friday 22 May 2026 after yesterday's surge, with Antam's Logam Mulia bullion slipping to Rp 2,788,000 per gram and the buyback price dropping to Rp 2,592,000 per gram. Pegadaian’s offerings, including Galeri24 and UBS, also declined; the article also provides practical tips on buying and storing gold from Logam Mulia and Galeri24.

West Java deputy governor urges no sweeping of B-plate vehicles during Persib convoy this weekend

West Java's deputy governor has urged Persib fans and residents to celebrate the team's anticipated title calmly, avoiding any actions that could endanger people or damage property, including sweeping of vehicles with B-number plates. He emphasised that the celebration should be a shared joy and called for an end to sweeping and vehicle vandalism.

Gibran Scheduled to Inspect Damaged Roads and Bridges in Amfoang, East Nusa Tenggara

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka is due to visit Manubelon in Amfoang, East Nusa Tenggara, to inspect roads and bridges that have been cut off since 2023. The visit highlights long-standing infrastructure deficits in Amfoang, with local students and leaders urging faster government investment in roads, bridges, healthcare, and education. Security preparations for the visit were reported, along with concerns about the Amfoang Primary Hospital's capability.

Alfamart and the Ministry of Education Sign MoU to Strengthen Teacher Quality at 229 Vocational High Schools

A memorandum of understanding is signed between Alfamart, Alfamidi, and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology to strengthen the link between vocational education and the modern retail sector. The agreement covers curriculum alignment, trainer training, mandatory work placements, and competency assessment, impacting 229 SMKs across 23 provinces and more than 16,700 students.

Chinese authorities demolish villager's madcap 10-storey home

Authorities in Xingyi, Guizhou province, razed most of Chen Tianming's 10-storey stone home after years of ignoring demolition notices and building restrictions. Officials said the illegal construction posed safety risks and lacked permits, carrying out the removal after a final warning. Chen says he will seek legal recourse to challenge the demolition and hopes to restore the structure, which had become a quirky tourist draw.

Save 50% on Fuel Costs: Entrepreneurs Choose Electric Trucks and Motorbikes

Global geopolitical tensions pushing up fuel volatility are prompting Indonesian businesses to switch to electric vehicles. Industry players report significant fuel savings and are increasingly adopting electric trucks for distribution, with pilot programmes already showing 40–50% reductions in fuel costs.

Who Really Is Aman Yani, the Man Valued at Rp750 Million by Dedi Mulyadi?

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has offered a Rp750 million bounty for anyone who locates Aman Yani, a missing figure linked to a Paoman family murder case. Aman Yani has been missing since 2016 and is alleged by a co-defendant to be the mastermind behind the August 2025 killings; the allegations involve a debt dispute and alleged payments to silence. The case has drawn attention to pension funds and alleged forgeries, with ongoing investigations and court proceedings.

Video: The Fate of the Coal Logistics Business Amid War and RKAB Cuts

The interview with RMK Energy's Vincent Saputra notes that coal remains a cheap energy source and outlines how global tensions and Indonesian policy shifts—such as a potential special state-owned coal export entity and RKAB reductions—could affect logistics demand. RMK Energy, focused on infrastructure and coal logistics in South Sumatra, anticipates that regulatory changes may influence shipment volumes, with an uptick expected in Q2 2026.

BPOM to strengthen vape oversight strategy to safeguard the younger generation

Indonesia faces a 'youth smoking emergency' with 7.4% of children and adolescents aged 10–18 actively smoking, equating to more than 5 million youths. BPOM says it will tighten vape oversight—from standardisation and nicotine-content limits to cross-sector collaboration and post-market surveillance—and has issued new regulations to implement health laws. The agency is also developing a digital reporting system, BPOM-WATCH, to bolster monitoring and enforcement, while officials and experts warn that e-cigarettes remain addictive and that misuse by youths is a growing concern.

Police arrest driver who raped a domestic worker in North Jakarta

Police have arrested a driver suspected of raping two domestic workers who had only recently started working at a house in Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta. The suspect was taken into custody on Thursday night and is being questioned by investigators, with the victims undergoing medical examinations. Authorities say the case remains under investigation and prosecution is being pursued.

Why Does the T-Rex Have Tiny Arms? Here’s What Scientists Say

Researchers say the T-Rex’s forelimbs shrank as the dinosaur increasingly relied on its head and jaws for hunting. The study finds a strong link between short forelimbs and a robust skull across several predatory theropods, though body size alone did not determine arm length. The work suggests the arms retained some function, while cranial power became the primary weapon.

Wedding-party motorcycle thief in Serang exploited information from ex-singer during raids

Police in Serang say a gang of motorcycle thieves targeted hajatan events, exploiting information from a former singer to strike at gatherings. The ring, led by Jimi alias Kiming, involved other suspects who acted as receivers of stolen property, and arrests were made in Serang and Bogor. The case spans multiple thefts across Banten and has prompted police to urge hosts to coordinate security with authorities.

DPR backs criminal prosecution of environmental-polluting corporation

Ahmad Sahroni, deputy chairman of DPR's Commission III, backed the Riau Police's move to name PT Musim Mas as a corporate suspect in an alleged environmental-damage case on the Air Hitam River in Pelalawan. He argued that enforcing law against environmental polluters is vital to treating ecological damage as a serious crime with consequences for the people and the state, and urged law enforcement to apply a pro-environment approach across regions to safeguard ecosystems and livelihoods.

Up 43.84 percent, BTN posts consolidated net profit of Rp1.45 trillion as of April 2026

BTN, the Indonesian state-owned bank, reported a consolidated net profit of Rp1.45 trillion as of April 2026, up 43.84% year-on-year, driven by higher net interest income and rising operating profit. The lender trimmed funding costs, maintained prudent loan provisioning, and expressed optimism about continued growth amid strong housing demand and a strengthening housing ecosystem.

Led by former AMMN boss Alexander Ramlie, Dhilmar acquires Australian coal mine worth Rp 68 trillion

Anglo American will sell a metallurgical coal mine in the Bowen Basin, Queensland to Dhilmar Ltd for $3.88 billion, comprising $2.3 billion upfront and up to $1.58 billion contingent on coal prices. The deal forms part of Anglo American's strategy to divest non-core assets and cut debt ahead of its merger with Teck Resources to create a copper-focused miner. Dhilmar is led by Alexander Ramlie, a former AMMN CEO, whose group also owns the Eleonore gold mine in Canada.

Trump vows to obtain enriched uranium from Iran

US President Donald Trump has vowed that Washington will eventually obtain Iran's stockpile of enriched uranium, despite Tehran's repeated refusals to surrender it. He warned the material would be obtained by any means and warned Iran would not be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon. The article notes Iran's near-weapons-grade uranium stock and a directive from Mojtaba Khamenei restricting shipments abroad, while diplomatic moves involving Pakistan and remarks by Secretary of State Marco Rubio hint at potential progress towards ending the conflict.

Google Chief Uses iPhone 17 Pro During Gemini Spark Demo, Deliberate?

During Google I/O 2026, Josh Woodward showcased Gemini Spark on an iPhone 17 Pro, underscoring Google's push to win over Apple’s vast user base. The demonstration fuelled speculation about a deeper AI partnership with Apple and highlighted the logic of targeting iPhone users over Pixel owners. With WWDC 2026 looming, the cross-platform strategy could redefine Google’s AI play.

Amanatul Ummah Pesantren, Under Kiai Asep Saifuddin Chalim, Ready to Host the 35th NU Muktamar

Amanatul Ummah pesantren, led by K.H. Asep Saifuddin Chalim, has signalled its willingness to host the 35th Nahdlatul Ulama Muktamar, scheduled for 1-5 August 2026. The letter highlights the pesantren complex in Mojokerto with extensive facilities, including a three-storey Grand Mosque, a 4,000-seat student centre, and multiple campuses, as suitable for Indonesia's largest Muslim organization’s congress. The proposal underscores not only location but also infrastructure and capacity to accommodate thousands of participants.

IRGC: At least 30 ships pass through the Strait of Hormuz in 24 hours

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says 31 ships — including oil tankers, container ships and other merchant vessels — traversed the Strait of Hormuz in the last 24 hours under the coordination of IRGC naval forces. The report notes continuing US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran's retaliation, with ceasefire talks in Islamabad yielding no breakthrough, and describes a de facto blockade of the Strait that could affect global oil supplies and prices.

Legal avenues deemed insufficient to tackle child marriage and 'marriage by capture'

Siti Aminah Tardi, former commissioner of Komnas Perempuan, argues that coercive marriages—such as child marriage and 'kawin tangkap'—persist in Indonesia despite legal measures. She warns that enforcement alone is insufficient due to enduring social and cultural factors, noting that even with the minimum marriage age raised to 19, families continue such practices and may seek dispensation when courts deny requests; the issue requires more than legal regulation to resolve.

Back to the Plate: When Medicine Re-discovers Nutrition

A piece argues that nutrition education has been sidelined in medical training, highlighting the US move to require extensive nutrition coursework and funding for curriculum development, while Indonesia's IPB University pursues an integrated medical-nutrition approach to health. It frames health as a product of diet, food systems, and environment, urging policy coherence across health, agriculture and ecosystems.

Bareskrim Repatriates Two Indonesian Citizens Who Were Victims of Kidnapping in Malaysia, Allegedly Linked to Illegal Tin Syndicate

Two Indonesian nationals who were victims of kidnapping and abuse in Malaysia have been repatriated by Bareskrim Polri after being rescued through cross-agency and international coordination. The victims, from Bangka Belitung, are suspected of involvement in shipping tin sand to Malaysia, and are said to have been held by three fellow Indonesians amid accusations of fraud; authorities are investigating cross-border tin-smuggling links.

Accounts of Suspect in BLN Cooperative Ponzi Investment Frozen, Assets Traced

Investigators have blocked 132 accounts linked to the Bahana Lintas Nusantara (BLN) Cooperative case, including the suspects’ accounts and those of their relatives and affiliated entities. Asset tracing is being conducted with PPATK, OJK, and other authorities, with further coordination to identify assets held in personal or family names as potential proceeds of crime.

Unveiling the Performance of Indonesian Tobacco Stocks: Which of HMSP, GGRM and WIIM Is the Most Profitable?

In Q1 2026, Indonesia's leading tobacco issuers HMSP and GGRM posted rising net profits even as revenue contracted, while WIIM benefited from shifting demand to lower-tax segments. The profits were driven by aggressive cost-cutting rather than healthy expansion, and fiscal tobacco levies continue to squeeze cash flows. The report also highlights weak returns on equity and high valuations amid negative foreign investor sentiment, with potential macro risks including employment in the sector and rising consumer downtrading.

Koops Habema: Civilians Among Yahukimo Gold Miners

The Koops Habema commander condemned the killings of eight civilians who were gold miners in Yahukimo by TPNPB militants, denying that they were military intelligence. He said security patrols have been intensified and efforts to evacuate the victims continue, with pursuit of the suspected militiamen led by Kopitua Heluka and Dejang Heluka. TPNPB spokespeople argued the miners damaged Papua's ecology and warned Indonesian forces to withdraw, pledging further action as long as TNI-Polri remain in Papua.

Thick Smoke Fills Binus Anggrek's Fifth Floor, West Jakarta as Fire Department Uses Breathing Apparatus

A fire broke out in the auditorium on the fifth floor of Binus Anggrek Campus in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta, prompting firefighters to wear breathing apparatus as thick smoke filled the area. Around 60 personnel and 12 fire engines responded; crews are now in overhaul with cooling completed and only embers remaining. The incident underscores campus safety and the scale of emergency response in the capital.

Commuter Rail Disruption at Pasar Senen: Six Routes Shortened

On 22 May 2026, several Commuter Line services between Cikarang/Bekasi and Kampung Bandan were altered because of locomotive issues at Pasar Senen Station. Some trains were shortened and did not continue on their usual routes; services via Pasar Senen would only run to Jatinegara or Pasar Senen, while those via Manggarai would terminate at Kampung Bandan or Kemayoran. KAI Commuter promised periodic updates as the situation developed.

Rupiah Slips to IDR 17,677 per US Dollar on 22 May 2026; See Rates at Several Banks

The rupiah opened weaker at IDR 17,677 per US dollar on 22 May 2026, down 0.06%. The move reflects global uncertainty from Middle East tensions and rising domestic demand for foreign currency. BI officials expect the currency to stabilise and possibly strengthen later in 2026, while local firms brace for further volatility.

Toshiba Starts Shipping Test Samples of 1200V Trench-Gate SiC MOSFET that will Enhance Efficiency in Next-Generation AI Data Centers

Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corp has started shipping test samples of the TW007D120E 1200V trench-gate SiC MOSFET for next-generation AI data centers, targeting higher efficiency and power density in HVDC 800V architectures. The device reportedly lowers RDS(on)A by about 58% and improves the RDS(on) × Qgd metric by around 52% versus Toshiba's 3rd-generation parts. Mass production is planned for fiscal 2026, with expansion into automotive applications and a QDPAK package designed for top-side cooling.

US Navy official says Taiwan arm sales on 'pause' over Iran war

Acting US Navy Secretary Hung Cao said arms sales to Taiwan have been put on pause to ensure the Pentagon has sufficient munitions for its operations related to Iran. He said the US$14 billion weapons package for Taiwan is stalled temporarily, with foreign military sales resuming only when the administration deems it necessary. The remarks come as Washington weighs commitments to Taiwan and China asserts stronger claims over the island.

Rescue of snared Sumatran tiger in Pasaman

Conservation rangers in Pasaman, West Sumatra, rescued a Sumatran tiger that had become snared. After a safety check, the tiger was released back into the wild, underscoring ongoing wildlife protection efforts and human-wildlife conflict management in Indonesia.

Sahroni Supports Criminal Prosecution of Environmental Polluting Corporations: Normalising Ecological Destruction as a Serious Crime

Sahroni backs the police crackdown on environmental violators, arguing that ecological damage should be treated as a serious crime that harms the state and communities. The Riau Police have named PT Musim Mas as a corporate suspect over palm oil planting within metres of the Air Hitam River, following a complaint from the Indonesia Environment Care Association (APLI) Riau. Sahroni calls for continued, pro‑environment enforcement by police across Indonesia.

DPR Commission III Deputy Chair Backs Riau Police in Cracking Down on Palm-Oil Corporations Polluting Rivers

Deputy Chairman Sahroni of DPR Commission III backs the Riau Police action, arguing that ecological damage should be treated as national losses and seeking heavy penalties for polluting corporations. The case against PT Musim Mas follows a complaint by APLI Riau and highlights concerns over palm-oil plantations encroaching riparian zones and the requirement for environmental impact assessments.

IHSG Today, 22 May 2026: Opens Lower, Cautious over 6,000 Psychological Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened lower on Friday, 22 May 2026, slipping 29.31 points (0.48%) to 6,065.63 as selling pressure dominated amid domestic and global uncertainties. The LQ45 followed with a 0.39% drop to 613.98, while the Rupiah hovered near Rp17,600 per US dollar; traders warn the index could test the 6,000 psychological support if selling persists. With key supports breached, a further slide toward around 5,880‑5,900 is possible, though bargains in large-cap stocks could spark a technical rebound.

Facts About Aseng, the Mining Boss in West Kalimantan, Named a Suspect in a Corruption Case — Here's the Modus Operandi

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named Sudianto, known as Aseng, a suspect in a case of alleged graft relating to the governance of a mining business permit (IUP) at PT Quality Success Sejahtera in Kalimantan Barat. Investigators say the company mined bauxite outside its permit area and exported the ore under official PT QSS documents, with suspected collusion involving state actors dating back to 2017, as searches and an audit of losses proceed; more suspects may follow as the investigation continues.

Investors Dump Indonesian Stocks as Export Controls Shock Market

Investors dumped Indonesian stocks as export-control policy concerns, ongoing Middle East tensions, and Fitch’s warning on state-owned banks pushed the Jakarta Composite Index to 6,065 in early trade, down 0.44%. Trading volume reached 3.7 billion shares as external risks and policy shifts weighed on sentiment ahead of FTSE/MSCI rebalances. Credit agencies flagged risks to exports and the balance of payments from centralized export proceeds, while Bank Indonesia expanded DHE SDA instruments to include yuan to bolster reserves.

Former Director-General of Water Resources at the Ministry of Public Works Named as a Corruption Suspect for Accepting Rp2 Billion in Bribes and a Car

The Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office has named and detained three former officials from the Ministry of Public Works in a corruption case, including the former Director-General of Water Resources (DP), who allegedly received more than Rp2 billion in cash and two luxury cars. Investigators are pursuing asset tracing to recover state losses and broaden the case against RS and AS.

Viral Albino White Buffalo nicknamed 'Donald Trump' Set for Eid al-Adha Sacrifice

A rare 700-kilogram albino buffalo in Narayanganj, Bangladesh, nicknamed 'Donald Trump' by its owner for its blond mane, has gone viral ahead of Eid al-Adha. Crowds have sought to see the animal, prompting health and welfare precautions; the owner plans to sacrifice the buffalo for the festival, reflecting its cultural significance in livestock trading. The piece also notes Indonesian livestock monitoring and regulatory measures around Eid al-Adha.

Surabaya Immigration Completes 43,998 Hajj Pilgrims' Departures for 2026, Kloter 116 as Final Batch

Surabaya's Class I Special Immigration Office has completed the embarkation process for Hajj pilgrims at Embarkation Surabaya for 1447 H/2026, with Kloter 116 as the final batch. A total of 43,998 people, including 43,535 pilgrims and 463 staff, departed across 116 kloter between 22 April and 21 May 2026, aided by the Makkah Route pre-clearance at Juanda. The operation marks the end of Embarkation Surabaya's role as one of Indonesia's largest embarkations, led by Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa.

Philippine artisans keep weaving traditions alive despite rising costs

Artisans face higher costs due to fuel, shipping disruptions and supply bottlenecks, even as authorities promote immersive cultural experiences to boost tourism. Revival programmes like Hinablon sa Cebu support traditional hablon weaving and livelihoods; designers incorporate indigenous textiles into high-profile fashion, yet export logistics remain a challenge. A government policy requiring civil servants to wear traditional attire helps sustain demand for locally produced garments.

Motorcycle thief who pointed a pistol at security at Duren Sawit Hospital arrested; operated at several locations

Four suspects were arrested by Metro Jaya Police's Ditreskrimum for robbery with violence, aggravated theft and illegal firearms. The gang, active across Jakarta and Bekasi including Duren Sawit, Rawamangun and Kebon Jeruk, resisted arrest with a firearm; one member had previously been a fugitive in a viral motorcycle theft case and had pointed a gun at security at RSIA Duren Sawit. Police say the crime was planned, with two attackers entering the parking area and two outside; the motive included the victim's motorcycle key still being attached to the vehicle.

100,000 Baby Lobsters: Batam Police Probe International Smuggling Network

Indonesian police in the Riau Islands are expanding investigations into a cross-border smuggling bid involving around 100,000 baby lobsters worth about Rp10 billion, moving from Jakarta through Batam toward Singapore. Two couriers have been arrested while authorities hunt for the masterminds and full supply chain, including the origin, ownership, and recipients. The case highlights vulnerabilities in wildlife trafficking networks and the need for reinforced cross-border enforcement and quarantine controls to protect marine resources and coastal livelihoods.

A host of prominent figures arrive at the Jogja Financial Festival 2026 venue

The Jogja Financial Festival 2026, held at the Jogja Expo Center on 22-23 May, aims to boost financial literacy and inclusion among the public, particularly youth. A line-up of senior figures, including LPS chair Anggito Abimanyu, CT Corp founder Chairul Tanjung, and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, attended or were scheduled to attend, with discussions, educational classes, and entertainment on the agenda.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister: UMKM data integration strengthens the business ecosystem

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto praised the SAPA UMKM platform, designed to link data across agencies to bolster the micro, small and medium enterprise ecosystem. He highlighted persistent inconsistencies in UMKM data between regional offices, which hamper mentoring, licensing support and market access, and urged a co-creative, cross-sector approach with strong active involvement from local governments to maintain data continuity. He confirmed that the Ministry will oversee and support SAPA UMKM to ensure it is effectively used by regional administrations.

Impact of Export-Focused State-Owned Enterprises, Rupiah Expected to Weaken Today (22 May)

The rupiah is forecast to weaken to around Rp 17,600–17,725 per USD amid policy uncertainty surrounding the formation of a new state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, and export governance reforms. Investors are also repositioning ahead of MSCI index changes, while US data showing a resilient labour market and a solid PMI help curb expectations of rapid monetary easing.

Traditional Japanese Mochi Snack Gets a Modern Twist

Indonesia’s Mooochii Indonesia is launching a more portable, room-temperature chewy mochi range to suit modern lifestyles, while PT DSI Persero plans to take over full export functions from January 2027. The mochi comes in flavours including red bean, chocolate, sesame and mango, available in single units and gift boxes. The innovation has earned Mooochii a 2026 Top Innovation Choice Award from Infobrand.id in conjunction with Tras N Co Indonesia.

Fire hits Binus University's Anggrek Campus building in Kemanggisan, West Jakarta

A fire broke out at Binus Anggrek Campus in Kemanggisan, Palmerah, West Jakarta, prompting a substantial firefighting response. Thick smoke was visible as crews battled the blaze; initial deployments included around five fire units with 30 personnel. The cause and extent of damage were not immediately known as of 07:30 WIB.

Oil and Gas Infrastructure Is Aging, Posing a Challenge; Industry Pushes for a Preventive Maintenance Strategy

The Indonesian oil and gas sector faces aging infrastructure, prompting calls for preventive maintenance to reduce downtime costs. A Henkel executive cites potential global downtime losses of around US$500,000 per hour and advocates shifting asset management from reactive to preventive approaches as domestic demand grows.

West Kalimantan dengue cases in 2026 reach 970 with four deaths

Dengue fever cases in West Kalimantan reached 970 by week 20 of 2026, with four deaths. Kapuas Hulu recorded the highest number of cases, while heavy rainfall has sustained transmission; health authorities urge a broader use of the mosquito-breeding habitat elimination programme (PSN) through the 3M Plus movement beyond fogging.

Friday morning, Antam gold price falls Rp12,000 to Rp2,788,000 per gram

Antam’s price for gold in Jakarta dropped by Rp12,000 to Rp2,788,000 per gram, with the buyback price at Rp2,592,000 per gram. The piece outlines applicable taxes under PMK 34/PMK.10/2017, including PPh 22 rates for NPWP and non-NPWP holders, and provides a breakdown of fractional gram prices up to 1,000 grams.

Caught Up in Corruption Case, Profile of PT QSS Bauxite Company in West Kalimantan

A single suspect, SDT, representing the beneficial owner of PT Quality Sukses Sejahtera (QSS), has been named in an AGO-led corruption probe into improper handling of mining business permit governance for West Kalimantan, 2017–2025. The investigation also involves cross-jurisdictional searches and a profile of QSS’s IUP and ownership, with further examinations ongoing.

Dedi Mulyadi announces Rp750 million bounty for anyone who finds Aman Yani

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has offered a Rp750 million prize for anyone who can locate Aman Yani, named as a suspected mastermind in the Paoman family killings in Indramayu. Aman Yani has been missing since 2016, with pension withdrawals and alleged meetings suggesting links to the case. The move coincides with ongoing court proceedings and disputes over the accusations against Aman Yani.

Breaking News: The Dollar Again Breaches Rp17,700

The rupiah weakened to around Rp17,700 per US$1 at 09:15 WIB, slipping 0.34% from the previous close and dipping from an opening level of Rp17,660. Traders await Bank Indonesia's Q1-2026 Balance of Payments data to gauge external resilience amid elevated oil prices and a firmer dollar. In Q4-2025, the Balance of Payments posted a surplus, but the current account recorded a deficit; the capital and financial account was in surplus, and the market will watch whether Q1-2026 continues to show a surplus.

Four Sumatran tiger cubs born in England, a boost for a critically endangered species

Four Sumatran tiger cubs were born at Howletts Animal Park in England in early April 2026, to a first-time mother named Tipah. The event is described as a milestone in Sumatran tiger conservation, as the species remains critically endangered with fewer than 400 individuals in the wild. Zookeepers say the cubs are healthy and growing well, offering renewed hope for the endangered subspecies.

Bontang poised to produce fatty acids to supply global cosmetic raw materials

The Bontang city government plans a fatty acid plant to supply cosmetics, detergents and other industries, with an annual production capacity of 91,200 tonnes and a raw material intake of 45,000 tonnes of CPO. Valued at Rp3.77 trillion, the project aims to boost Indonesia’s downstream oleochemical sector, create hundreds of jobs, and reduce dependency on imported products while positioning Bontang as a hub for green industry.

High School Students Seek Economics Lessons from Purbaya-Anggito at FinFest 2026

Siswa SMA Mau Belajar Ekonomi ke Purbaya-Anggito di FinFest 2026 Yogyakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Murid SMAN 3 Yogyakarta yang hadir ke Jogja Financial Festival 2026. Ternyata, mereka ingin memperdalam wawasan soal ekonomi hingga financial dari para narasumber top yang hadir. Murid SMAN 3 yang ditemui Dio, Rafael, dan Ricky mengaku antusias menghadiri Jogja Financial Festival 2026 (FinFest 2026).

Positive Q1 2026 Performance, bank bjb Books Profit Growth and Strengthening of Its Business

Bank bjb reported a PATMI of Rp410 billion for Q1 2026, up 13.3% QoQ and 3% YoY, underpinned by stronger net interest income and cost efficiency. The bank highlighted its digital transformation and ESG progress as it pursues ongoing, sustainable growth supported by lending growth and steady liquidity.

Latest BYD Atto 3 Generation Launched: See What's New and Its Specifications

BYD has unveiled the third-generation Atto 3 in China, featuring a flatter fascia, revised interior with a larger central display, and a move to rear-wheel drive with two motor options. The Blade Battery continues with two capacity options (57.5 kWh and 68.5 kWh), offering CLTC ranges of 540–630 km, and an optional DiPilot 300 ADAS with LiDAR and 30 sensors. Prices in China begin at 119,900 yuan, rising to 149,900 yuan.

US Government Begins Quantum Computing Investment, IBM Receives Massive Funding

The US government announced a scheme to grant funding to nine quantum computing companies in exchange for minority equity, expanding state support into quantum technology. The move aligns quantum computing with other strategic sectors already backed by the administration and mirrors prior state investments in semiconductors, steel, nuclear energy, and rare earths to boost national competitiveness and supply-chain resilience. It follows earlier government stakes in firms such as Vulcan Elements, MP Materials, and USA Rare Earth, and underscores the aim of capturing investment returns while diversifying away from China.

Bekasi Timur train crash: taxi not faulty, signalling and communications under scrutiny

At a DPR hearing, officials from the Ministry of Transport, KNKT, and the police outlined the sequence of events in the Bekasi Timur crash, confirming the electric taxi did not suffer an initial system fault and that the taxi driver has been named a suspect. The timeline shows a sequence of train movements culminating in collisions with both a taxi and another train within minutes, prompting scrutiny of signalling and communications. The inquiry highlights a very tight time window between incidents and raises questions about safety practices at Bekasi Timur level crossing.

Israel Breaks into the Top 10 of the World's Happiest Countries, How Is That Possible?

Israel places eighth in the World Happiness Report 2026 despite ongoing conflict, underscoring the role of familial and communal ties and robust social support. The report attributes happiness to factors such as per-capita income, health, social trust, political freedom, generosity, and low perceived corruption, noting Finland leads and Nordic countries dominate.

Moody’s and S&P Flag Risks in Indonesia's Commodity Export Control Plan

Indonesia's government plans to centralise export controls for strategic commodities via a state trading company under the sovereign wealth fund Danantara Indonesia. S&P Global Ratings and Moody's warn the move could curb export volumes, hurt government revenue, and raise risks for miners, potentially destabilising markets and the balance of payments.

ESA urges Europe to boost space funding to catch up with the United States

ESA Director-General Josef Aschbacher warned that Europe cannot match the United States in space unless public investment is doubled or tripled. He noted Europe accounts for about 10% of global public space funding and urged policymakers to increase investment two- to threefold. He also noted Europe previously called for its own operational reusable launch vehicle to compete with SpaceX.

Tangsel's Sekda Post and the Call for Transparency

The Tangerang Selatan DPRD has urged the local government to disclose all stages of the Sekda evaluation and extension process for Bambang Noertjahjo amid delays in a formal proclamation by the BKN. The body says transparency is needed to prevent public speculation, as BKPSDM Tangsel has issued recommendations on 4–5 May 2026 and the mayor’s decision remains pending; officials emphasise the Sekda post is a High Leadership Position that can be extended on performance, competence and organisational needs, with no legal issues identified.

Minister of Manpower: National Internship Programme to Strengthen Youth Work Readiness

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower is presenting the National Internship Programme as a strategic tool to strengthen young people's readiness for work by broadening practical experience and competencies. The programme offers technical and non-technical training, including 15 to 30 certification workshops, and ongoing evaluation to ensure alignment with industry needs; the Phase II handover is scheduled for 26 May 2026.

Effective 1 June 2026, Government Promises New Export Rules for Natural Resource Commodities Won't Disrupt Business

The Indonesian government will implement a new regulatory framework governing exports of strategic natural resource commodities from 1 June 2026, with a three-month transition to allow business adjustment. During the transition, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) will act as the sole exporter for coal, crude palm oil (CPO), and alloy steel, while other export activities continue under existing companies; full processing and payments will be handled by DSI from 1 September 2026, with the aim of boosting transparency and tightening oversight of foreign exchange earnings.

ChatGPT No Longer Collecting Digital Tax, DJP Remittances Still Rise by Rp1.5 Trillion

Indonesia's tax authority says it has delisted OpenAI as a PMSE VAT collector, but digital tax receipts rose to Rp52.04 trillion by April 2026. The DJP expanded PMSE collectors, with two new appointments, and continues to report strong digital economy tax performance amid data adjustments.

Encouraging Waste Sorting Movement, DKI Jakarta Information Commission Strengthens Digital Literacy

KI DKI Jakarta is boosting digital literacy to support a city-wide waste sorting and processing campaign, engaging both communities and public bodies. It is pushing sub-district and ward authorities to publish real-time waste-management information online, as part of compliance with openness principles and Governor’s Instruction Number 5 of 2026. The effort aims to increase transparency and public awareness, with ongoing data collection of public bodies’ social media and calls to publish details of TPST operations and budgets.

Latumenten Flyover Construction Accelerated, Target Completion in 2026

The Jakarta provincial government is accelerating the Latumenten Flyover project in West Jakarta, with work now focused on installing the upper structure at a busy intersection. Progress is about 78%, and night-time work on concrete box girders is planned to avoid disrupting traffic; functional testing is expected in Q4 2026. The project aims to remove the rail crossing to ease congestion and improve safety, with completion and inauguration planned for December 2026, though night closures may occur for heavy lifting.

Dukono Tragedy Fallout: Indonesian Guide Named Suspect After Deadly Eruption Hike

Indonesian authorities have named 35-year-old guide Reza Selang as a suspect for negligence causing death after a Mount Dukono ascent that ended in a fatal eruption, killing three climbers including two Singaporeans. Police say he led the group despite an April 17 climbing ban and did not coordinate with the volcano observation post, with charges under Article 474 carrying up to five years in prison and a fine. The case highlights Indonesia's willingness to hold local operators to account for safety bans and hazard advisories on active volcanoes as the legal process unfolds.

Pertamax Turbo Price Today, 22 May 2026, at SPBU Across Indonesia: Complete Regional Price List

Pertamax Turbo prices remained unchanged on Friday 22 May 2026, staying in line with Pertamina's price list in effect since 4 May 2026. In Java and Bali, the price is Rp 19,900 per litre, up from Rp 19,400 prior to the May 2026 adjustment; regional variations reflect distribution and logistics costs. Consumers are advised to check Pertamina's official site or the MyPertamina app for updates, as prices can change with company policy and global energy market conditions.

Why the TPNPB-OPM shot dead eight gold miners in Yahukimo

The West Papua National Liberation Army–Free Papua Movement (TPNPB-OPM) says it killed eight gold miners in Korowai, Yahukimo Regency, Papua Highlands, as a warning that the area is a war zone and off-limits to civilians, especially non-Papuan residents. The militants claim the miners were acting as military intelligence; Indonesian authorities say the victims were civilians and have deployed troops and air support to recover the bodies, amid ongoing clashes following the killings of two TPNPB militants a week earlier.

Jogja Financial Festival Attracts Youth to Learn Investment and Finance

Young people from across Yogyakarta flocked to the Jogja Financial Festival to learn about investing and personal finance. The two-day event features educational sessions, business talks and entertainment, with leading Indonesian financial regulators and government figures among the speakers.

Weather Forecast in Indonesia Today: Caution! Cyclonic Circulation Triggers Heavy Rain

BMKG issued an early warning of potentially extreme weather across several Indonesian regions as cyclonic circulations and convergence zones develop, signaling possible heavy rainfall and hydrometeorological impacts such as floods or landslides. The agency urged heightened preparedness, with warnings extending to Jakarta and other major areas, and notes El Niño concerns for 2026 and a recent earthquake.

Students and University Students Swarm Jogja Expo Centre to Watch Purbaya and Ari Lasso

Yogyakarta hosts the Jogja Financial Festival 2026, the year's largest financial-literacy event, featuring high-profile figures and a programme spanning three days. The festival draws thousands of young attendees and will culminate in performances by Happy Asmara and Ari Lasso, underscoring Indonesia's emphasis on financial education and sector outlook.

Indonesia's Bold Export Crackdown Won't Breach Existing Commodity Contracts

Indonesia is launching a state-led export-monitoring regime under the Danantara super-holding entity, promising to honour existing commodity contracts while targeting transfer pricing and under-invoicing. Officials say exports of coal, CPO, and ferronickel will continue, with a three-month transition to audit and calibrate a new reporting system to DSI. The reform aims to curb tax evasion and capital flight, strengthen state revenues, and clamp down on predatory pricing, without causing immediate disruption to global supply chains.

IEA: Global oil consumption begins to fall amid Middle East crisis

Fatih Birol of the IEA says global oil demand has begun to slip amid the Middle East crisis, warning that prices higher than today could intensify the decline. He says a continued disruption of the Strait of Hormuz could push markets into a 'Red Zone' as summer demand rises; emergency stock releases have helped but are not enough, underscoring the need for full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Chery J6 Gets More Aggressive with Thai Bodykit

Thai tuners are demonstrating a growing appetite for aftermarket styling with the Victor Bodykit for the Jaecoo J6, a global alias for the Chery J6. The kit adds a more aggressive and adventurous look, with a front bumper, side skirts, overfenders and a rear skirt, produced in Thailand using ABS and Dupont 2K paint. The development could offer inspiration for Indonesian J6 owners seeking a distinctive but faithful appearance.

Sabu courier in Ogan Ilir faces the death penalty

Zainal Abidin appeared at a Palembang court as prosecutors demanded the death penalty for alleged narcotics trafficking involving more than five grams. The indictment describes a November 11, 2025 arrest at his home in Ogan Ilir, during which police seized about 9.991 kg of methamphetamine, additional meth packets and tens of thousands of Ecstasy tablets, totalling tens of kilograms. The prosecutor argued the offence violated Article 114(2) of Law No. 35 of 2009 on Narcotics and undermined government anti-drug efforts.

Ministry of Law and Human Rights to provide scholarships and protection for journalists

Indonesia's Ministry of Law and Human Rights is launching a programme offering journalism reporting scholarships and enhanced protection for journalists to broaden the mainstreaming of human rights. The plan includes the Human Rights Journalism Class, a reporting scholarship, and an annual Human Rights Journalistic Works Award in December; it will run through 2026 and extend to provinces from next year. The initiative involves Dewan Pers and media figures and aims to safeguard journalists from intimidation and doxxing.

Antam Gold Bullion Prices Fall Today, Back at Rp2.7 million per gram

Antam’s 1-gram gold price fell to Rp2.788 million, with the buyback price at Rp2.592 million. Global gold prices were broadly flat as oil weakened amid geopolitical uncertainty, with the price around US$4,533 per troy ounce at 06:45 WIB, down 0.24% on the day after closing at US$4,544 the previous session.

118th Harkitnas Momentum: Tangsel Land Office Aims to Reflect Improved Work Ethic

At the 118th National Awakening Day ceremony in Banten, the Tangerang Selatan Land Office urged that the theme "Guard the Nation's Offspring for National Sovereignty" be reflected in a stronger civil servant work ethic and in the digitisation of public land services. Kantah Tangsel head Seto Apriyadi said the day should translate into a more reliable service, aligned with sovereign values in land administration, supported by greater use of digital technology; the remarks were part of a broader government agenda, including education reform and child protection in the digital space.

Prabowo's Speech, National Optimism, and a Self-Reliant Economy

President Prabowo delivered the macroeconomic framework and the outline of fiscal policy (KEM-PPKF) for the 2027 State Budget in a plenary session of the DPR, the first time a sitting president has personally presented macro and fiscal policy directions. The speech set out macro targets including growth of 5.8-6.5%, a rupiah range of 16,800–17,500 per US dollar, inflation of 1.5–3.5%, and a budget deficit of 1.80–2.40%, while emphasising the rule of law, anti‑corruption, and market confidence to reassure investors.

Magnitude 5.9 earthquake in Manado triggered by activity of the Maluku Sea Plate

A magnitude 5.9 tectonic earthquake struck Manado and surrounding areas on Friday morning, reportedly caused by deformation within the Maluku Sea Plate. BMKG said the quake occurred at 08:05 local time, with a shallow depth and no tsunami; aftershocks were not yet detected at 08:20. Residents were advised to remain calm and avoid damaged buildings while authorities investigate.

Gateway for Indonesian Labour to Canada Opens Wider

Indonesian Ambassador Muhsin Syihab’s visit to Fredericton on 19-20 May 2026 advanced a memorandum of understanding on the health workforce between KP2MI and New Brunswick's Department of Health, with New Brunswick seeking skilled Indonesian nurses and elder-care staff. The agreement is expected to enter the recruitment phase in autumn 2026 and to dispatch the first cohort in the first semester of 2027. The talks also covered potential collaboration with the University of New Brunswick, energy cooperation, and trade opportunities under ICA-CEPA.

Syria strengthens its commitment to international humanitarian law

Syria has joined a global initiative to reinforce its political commitment to international humanitarian law, framing the move as part of the government’s efforts to broaden responsible engagement with the international community. The accession was delivered to the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross during a meeting with the Syrian representative to the UN, with Damascus pledging closer multilateral cooperation and renewed emphasis on protecting civilians amid a history of abuses.

JCI Opens Down 1.64% to 5,995 as Asia-Pacific Markets and Wall Street Rise

The Jakarta Composite Index opened down 99 points (1.64%) at 5,995. Analysts see potential for a short-term rebound if support around 6,000 holds, as global markets moved mixed amid easing Middle East tensions and upbeat tech-sector momentum. Wall Street closed slightly higher, while moves in Walmart and Nvidia reflected earnings, guidance and profit-taking.

Residents of the 'Cultural City' Flock to Jogja FinFest 2026

On the first day of Jogja FinFest 2026 at JEC Yogyakarta, attendees including students and private-sector workers crowded the venue for a programme featuring business talks, educational sessions, and career opportunities, with notable appearances by Prof. Ova Emilia and Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, and performances by artists such as Kiky Saputri, Ari Lasso, Happy Asmara and Juicy Luicy.

Binus Kebon Jeruk Campus Fire

A fire broke out at the auditorium on the fourth floor of Binus Cakra campus in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta. Firefighters responded with 11 fire engines and 55 personnel, bringing the blaze under control by 06:00 WIB; there have been no reports of casualties.

Standoff Over Drastic Drop in Egg Prices

Egg producers across the country are grappling with a drastic fall in prices, with farm-gate prices around Rp20,000 per kilogram and consumer prices in traditional markets around Rp26,000–Rp27,000 per kg. The decline is driven by oversupply and weak demand, and the National Layer Poultry Breeders Association cites a significant rise in layer hens; authorities promise price stability and strengthened supply chains to support farmers.

Labour Minister Urges BPJS Ketenagakerjaan to Take Upstream Action amid High Workplace Accidents

The Indonesian Labour Minister Yassierli has urged BPJS Ketenagakerjaan to take a larger role in strengthening occupational safety and health (OSH) culture, focusing on preventive measures as workplace accidents remain high. Data for 2025 show 319,224 workplace-accident claims, with 9,834 deaths and 4,133 serious injuries; authorities plan three joint tasks to bolster national K3 and SMK3 implementation.

Farmer in Canggu Devastated as 60 Pigs Die Suddenly from Suspected African Swine Fever

In Bali’s Canggu, a pig farmer has lost 60 pigs after sudden deaths since April, believed to be African Swine Fever (ASF). Authorities have not yet received an official report but will investigate and stress strict biosecurity as there is no available ASF vaccine. The incident highlights ongoing agricultural health challenges and the need for vigilance over animal movements and feeding practices.

Breaking News! IHSG Opens Down 2%

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) slid 2% in early trading to 5,973.20, with 464 stocks down, 89 up and 406 flat, in transactions of Rp818.9 billion and a volume of 1.54 billion shares. Investors are watching a government plan to centralise Indonesia's strategic commodity exports through PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (PT DSI) from 1 January 2027, a move that has drawn warnings from S&P Global Ratings and Moody's about potential adverse effects on exports, sovereign revenue, the balance of payments, and investor sentiment.

Esports World Cup 2026 to be held in Paris in July

The Esports Foundation has announced that the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2026 will be staged in Paris from 6 July to 23 August 2026, marking the event's first hosting outside Saudi Arabia. The organisers outline long-term growth plans for a global platform, with over 2,000 players and 200 clubs from more than 100 countries competing for more than $75 million in prize money across 24 games and 25 tournaments, broadcast across 28 platforms.

Court finds Airbus and Air France guilty over the 2009 tragedy.

France's Paris Court of Appeal has found Airbus and Air France guilty of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the 2009 crash of the Airbus A330 AF447 in the Atlantic, overturning an earlier acquittal. The court ruled that both companies were negligent in timely reporting of technical faults and in meeting pilot training standards during emergencies, and imposed the maximum penalties under French law.

Mount Semeru Eruption: 1,000-Metre Plume, Alert Level III

Mount Semeru, located on the border of Lumajang and Malang in East Java, erupted on Friday morning, sending a plume up to 1,000 metres above the summit. PVMBG has imposed strict safety restrictions: no activity within 13 kilometres of the summit along Besuk Kobokan, and a 500-metre buffer along the river edge; lahars and hot avalanche risks remain.

Xiaomi launches YU7 GT with a starting price of around Rp1 billion

Xiaomi has unveiled the YU7 GT at its 'Human x Car x Home' event in China, with a price starting from 389,900 yuan (about Rp1 billion). The high-performance SUV features a 738 kW (990 hp) V8s EVO engine, a 0–100 km/h time of 2.92 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h, and is equipped with a 101.7 kWh SiC-based high-voltage battery offering rapid charging and long range. It also includes advanced chassis and braking systems, a luxurious interior and multiple colour options.

Metro Jaya Police Respond to LBH Criticism Over Begal Hunters Team: Actions Target Only Armed Suspects

The Metro Jaya Police's General Criminal Investigation Directorate says the Begal Hunters Team's use of force is aimed only at criminals who threaten the public or officers. LBH Jakarta had warned the unit could risk repressive conduct. Police insist actions are guided by Perkap, KUHP and KUHAP and that only armed offenders are targeted, with officers trained to act decisively and proportionately.

Awaiting the Special Export State-Owned Enterprise to Take Effect on June 1: How Are the Preparations Going?

Indonesia’s government has issued a Government Regulation on the governance of exports of natural resource commodities, creating PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) as the sole exporter. DSI will begin operations on 1 June 2026, with full functions and risk-bearing responsibilities taking effect by January 2027, and Luke Thomas Mahony named as its Chief Executive Officer. The policy aims to strengthen oversight, curb data manipulation and under-invoicing, and funnel export proceeds through the state.

Pramono elected as Vice-Chair of the C40

Pramono Anung Wibowo, the Governor of Jakarta, has been elected as Vice-Chair of the Steering Committee of C40 Cities, reinforcing Jakarta's role as a climate action leader in East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. The appointment underscores Jakarta as a model for rapidly growing megacities, with the city pursuing net-zero targets through holistic, cross-sector collaboration.

Comprehensive Review of the Suzuki Satria Pro, from Design to Servicing Costs

After several days of daily-use testing, the Suzuki Satria Pro is more than a mere facelift, marrying the familiar Satria character with far more modern features. The bike offers triple-cluster full-LED lighting, an updated instrument panel, ABS on the front wheel, and smartphone connectivity with a useful USB charger, plus an assist/slipper clutch that eases urban riding; however, a plastic rear subframe and some aged design cues temper the premium feel. The engine character is notably lively above 6,000 rpm, delivering engaging revs and a confident 120 km/h top speed on a short test track.

Stranas PK: Rp12 trillion MBG funds idle in foundation's virtual account

The National Strategy Team for Corruption Prevention (Stranas PK) identifies serious corruption risks and implementation challenges in President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes, notably the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and the village-level Red-White Cooperative (KDKMP). It notes about Rp12 trillion of MBG funds sitting in a foundation's virtual account that have not been absorbed, and highlights concerns over rapid programme rollout without adequate oversight, potential conflicts of interest in implementer selection, and limited local supplier participation.

Many Empty Seats in Majalengka DPRD, Some Busy Playing Mobile Games During Plenary Session

A plenary session of Majalengka’s Regional House of Representatives (DPRD Majalengka) to present three draft local regulations saw around a third of its members absent without explanation. Several attendees were also observed engrossed in mobile phones, with some appearing sleepy as proceedings continued. The meeting proceeded as the three draft local regulations—on the control and supervision of alcoholic beverages, building family resilience, and the guidance and supervision of construction services—were discussed.

Bekasi Timur Train Crash Prompts Ministry of Transport to Reform; 172 Level Crossings to be Closed

The Ministry of Transport has announced a comprehensive safety review following the Bekasi Timur train accident on 27 April 2026, including evaluations of operational procedures and infrastructure, strengthened supervision, and cross-stakeholder coordination. Investigations by KNKT are ongoing, with the government emphasising independent, professional, and transparent inquiry; 172 level crossings are slated for closure as part of wider safety measures.

Indonesia's new B50 fuel to circulate from July 2026, its impact on vehicle engines

Indonesia plans to mandatorily introduce a 50% biodiesel blend (B50) in July 2026, expanding from the current 40%. The policy aims to shift diesel demand to domestic production, with tests indicating stable engine performance and longer-lasting components. The initiative is projected to save up to IDR 157.28 trillion in foreign exchange, create over 2.2 million jobs, and reduce CO2 emissions by about 46.7 million tonnes in 2026.

BI Expands DHE SDA Placement in Banks, Not Just in USD

The Indonesian central bank is widening the currencies eligible for DHE SDA deposits in Himbara banks beyond the USD, including the Chinese yuan, as part of measures to deepen the domestic FX market and expand flexibility for exporters. New rules under Government Regulations No. 2 and No. 21 of 2026 will require export proceeds to be deposited in Himbara and allocated across oil/gas and non-oil sectors, with tenor and conversion caps set.

DJKI Resolves 119 Intellectual Property Crime Complaints

DJKI has reported that in the five-year period 2021-2025 it resolved 119 intellectual property crime cases, predominantly trademark infringements, and has launched an online E-Pengaduan system to report suspected IP violations more easily, quickly, and transparently. Reports undergo verification and analysis by a dedicated team, with a registration number issued upon submission; the move aims to strengthen protection for creators, inventors, and businesses and to foster a healthier national innovation ecosystem with greater stakeholder confidence.

Government reiterates digital transformation as the foundation for economic growth

Indonesia's Economy Coordinating Ministry says digital transformation is a foundational pillar for achieving an 8% national growth target by 2029, aligned with Presidential Regulation No. 4 of 2026 on the Economic Growth Acceleration Task Force. The government emphasises data centres, AI, and cyber security as central to sustainable growth and stresses collaboration among government, industry and associations to position Indonesia as an active participant in the global digital ecosystem. A National Forum on Indonesia Digital Leap outlined policy roadmaps and investment priorities for infrastructure, AI adoption, and cyber resilience, while soft-launching the DTI Series 2026 and CRD-CX 2026 ahead of August's event in Jakarta.

Bride-to-Be Missing Ahead of Wedding with 14-Year Age Gap

A bride-to-be aged 19 and her 33-year-old fiancé were due to wed in Pati Regency, but the bride disappeared ahead of the ceremony. Police are searching for NAS and coordinating with village authorities; the wedding was cancelled, and authorities appeal for information to locate her.

RATU to Acquire 20% Participating Interest in Madura Strait PSC

RATU, via PT Raharja Energi Madura, has won shareholder approval to indirectly acquire a 20% Participating Interest in the Madura Strait PSC, operated by Husky-CNOOC Madura Limited. The deal includes a US$59.2 million novation loan and a US$62.51 million Share Purchase Agreement, with contingent payments potentially adding US$19.5 million, bringing total transaction value to about US$141.2 million, financed in part by OCP Asia funds; closing depends on conditions precedent.

Putin Proposes to Xi Jinping that Iran's Enriched Uranium be Transferred to Russia

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov says Putin discussed Moscow's proposal to transfer Iran's enriched uranium to Russia with Xi Jinping in a closed meeting, with the US yet to receive the proposal. Peskov also criticised the US blockade of Cuba as causing humanitarian harm, urging restraint towards senior Cuban leaders.

Mount Dukono eruption spews ash column up to 600 metres high

Indonesia's Geology Agency reports Mount Dukono in North Maluku erupted again, emitting an ash column around 600 metres above the crater and reaching about 1,687 metres above sea level. The eruption has continued since 06:09 WIT, with a maximum seismic amplitude of 13 mm and an eruption duration of 69.55 seconds; authorities maintain Level II (Waspada) and urge residents and visitors to stay at least four kilometres away from the crater and to be prepared with protective masks due to wind-driven ash dispersal.

Bustling Atmosphere at JEC Ahead of the Opening of Jogja Financial Festival 2026

The Jogja Financial Festival (JFF) is a two-day event at Jogja Expo Center in Yogyakarta, following earlier editions in Surabaya and Medan, aimed at boosting financial literacy and inclusion among youths. The programme features Business Talks with senior figures from DPR, LPS, and OJK, an Educational Class, and a Career Corner, with notable guests including Sri Sultan Hamengku X, Hasto Wardoyo, Chairul Tanjung, and Ova Emilia; the first day drew heavy attendance as preparations continued for May 23.

Russian Sanctions Threaten Food Supply, Moscow Analyst Says Europe Is Returning to the Middle Ages

Europe faces intensified energy, fertiliser, and food crises amid sanctions on Russia and Belarus. The European Commission has proposed additional tariffs on Russian and Belarusian agricultural products, including nitrogen-based fertilisers, aiming to diversify supply and shield farmers from price spikes. Moscow analyst Elena Karaeva argues the policy could backfire by heightening European dependence on energy and fertilisers from Russia and by broader geopolitical tensions.

Antam Gold Price Today May 22 Falls to Rp 2.78 Million Per Gram

Antam's gold price fell on Friday, 22 May 2026, to Rp 2,788,000 per gram, down from Rp 2,800,000 the previous day. The price update comes from Logam Mulia, which shows daily updates around 08:30 WIB. Purchases are subject to a PPh 22 tax deduction, with the tax portion deducted directly from the transaction value, for tax reporting.

BMKG Issues Warning as Heavy Rain Looms Across Several Regions of Indonesia

BMKG reports the formation of cyclonic circulations and convergence zones that could raise rainfall across parts of Indonesia on Friday, 22 May 2026, with a risk of heavy to very heavy downpours. The agency warns residents in western Indonesia to be vigilant, as forecasts indicate thunderstorms and varying cloud cover across major cities, with eastern Indonesia facing thunderstorms and unsettled rain.

Dab In! Youth Pack JEC to Liven Jogja FinFest 2026

Young crowds, from schoolchildren to university students, turned out in force for the Jogja Financial Festival 2026 at Jogja Expo Centre, Yogyakarta, running 22–24 May. The programme features talks from senior figures in Indonesia’s financial sector, together with educational classes on money management and investing, and a career corner, as well as entertainment including a Lapor Pak comedy show. The festival closes with performances by Happy Asmara and veteran singer Ari Lasso.

Transport Minister: 172 Illegal Level Crossings Closed to Curb Accident Numbers

Indonesia's Transport Ministry will close 172 illegal level crossings to curb the high rate of railway accidents, most of which occur at unmanned crossings. The plan includes safety upgrades at 1,638 priority sites and a budget of around Rp800 billion. Early data show accidents trending down, with about 80% of incidents at unmanned crossings and motorcyclists most at risk.

DIY Weather Forecast Today: Yogyakarta Shrouded in Dense Clouds

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) DIY released the weather forecast for the DIY region today, predicting no rain in most areas with cloudy to dense cloud cover throughout the day. However, in parts of Kaliurang and the Menoreh Hills, there is a chance of light showers from midday, while coastal areas and popular beaches are also forecast to stay dry. The forecast covers Jogja City and districts across the DIY region.

Idul Adha 2026 Holiday Calendar Could Deliver a Six-Day Long Weekend

The Indonesian government’s Hijri calendar for 2026 indicates Idul Adha falls on Wednesday 27 May 2026, potentially creating a six-day long weekend when combined with public holidays, collective leave, and weekends. A Friday leave on 29 May 2026 could extend the break; Vesak Day on 31 May 2026 and Pancasila Day on 1 June 2026 also contribute to the period, impacting travel plans and business operations.

Salemba Prison foils methamphetamine smuggling by a visitor

Prison officers at Salemba Class I Prison in Central Jakarta foiled the smuggling of 15 grams of methamphetamine concealed in a female visitor's genital area. The incident occurred during a routine screening, aided by prior intelligence, and the visitor was handed to police for further investigation. Authorities said they will tighten visiting surveillance to keep the facility drug-free.

BPS: The Number of MSMEs in Indonesia Reaches 59 Million in 2023

Indonesia’s Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reports that the country had 59 million micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in 2023, with around 30.2 million non‑agricultural and about 29 million agricultural MSMEs. The government has launched the SAPA-UMKM platform to unify data, services, and financing for MSMEs, aiming to strengthen the national data ecosystem and inform policy ahead of the 2026 Economic Census.

DPR Accelerates Online Ride-Hailing Law as Personal Data Protection Law to be Amended

The Indonesian DPR approved changes to the National Legislation Programme (Prolegnas) for the 2026 Priority Bills and the 2025-2029 Prolegnas, fast-tracking 68 bills with a focus on technology, digital policy and cybersecurity. Key items include amendments to the Personal Data Protection Law and a Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, alongside regulation of online transport, broadcasting, gig-economy workers, and the One Data Indonesia initiative.

Bank BJB Offers ST016, a Retail Sharia Investment with Competitive Yields

Bank BJB has launched Sukuk Tabungan ST016, a retail Sharia-compliant investment that offers competitive yields of 6.05% for two years (ST016T2) and 6.25% for four years (ST016T4). The government-backed Green Sukuk Ritel is accessible online from 8 May to 3 June 2026, with the option to register without visiting a branch. The offer aims to promote financial inclusion, low-risk investment for first-time investors, and long-term wealth planning.

IDAI Criticism and BGN Clarification on the Provision of Infant Formula in MBG

The Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI) has criticised the mass provision of infant formula within the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG), arguing that it lacks medical indications. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) issued a clarifying statement, while IDAI urged the government to prioritise exclusive breastfeeding and protect children’s nutrition.

Mount Semeru erupts with a 1,000-metre eruption column

Mount Semeru on Java's highest peak erupted again on Friday morning, producing an eruption column of around 1,000 metres above the summit. PVMBG continues to rate the activity at Level III (Siaga) and has issued safety zones: 13 kilometres from the summit along Besuk Kobokan, 500 metres from riverbanks along Besuk Kobokan, and a 5-kilometre radius around the crater, with warnings of ash clouds, lava flows and lahars along river valleys.

Goldman Sachs to pay US$500 million to settle shareholder lawsuit over 1MDB scandal

Goldman Sachs has agreed to pay US$500 million to settle a class action accusing the bank of defrauding shareholders about its involvement with 1MDB, the Malaysian sovereign wealth fund mired in a corruption scandal. The settlement resolves claims that Goldman helped 1MDB issue US$6.5 billion of bonds and earned an estimated US$600 million in fees, with the judge still to approve the deal. The case follows earlier penalties and criminal resolutions linked to 1MDB, including a 2024 ending of the US criminal case and guilty pleas by several Goldman employees.

Binus Kebon Jeruk Building Fire, Firefighters Still Battling to Extinguish the Blaze

Firefighters continued to battle a blaze at the Anggrek Campus building of Bina Nusantara University in Kemanggisan, West Jakarta, after reports around 05:30 local time on Friday (22 May 2026). Five fire engines and 30 personnel were deployed, with thick smoke billowing from inside the building; by 07:30 local time, the cause and the affected rooms remained unknown.

Gold Prices at Pegadaian on 22 May 2026: Check Details for Galeri 24 and UBS

Pegadaian's Galeri 24, Antam and UBS gold prices were unchanged on 22 May 2026, at Rp 2,788,000, Rp 2,898,000 and Rp 2,849,000 per gram respectively. Reuters reported that spot gold rose 0.1% to $4,547.54 per ounce, while US futures for June delivery fell 0.1% to $4,542.50 per ounce. Price moves followed fluctuations in oil prices amid uncertainties over the resolution of the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Pledges that Nine Indonesian Activists From Gaza Flotilla Will Return Home

Nine Indonesian volunteers from the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 have been released from Israeli prisons and deported to Türkiye, where they will undergo further checks in Istanbul before returning to Indonesia. The Indonesian government says it is coordinating to ensure their safe repatriation and condemns the violence used by Israeli forces during their detention.

Latest Bank Deposit Interest Rates from BRI, Mandiri and BNI as of 22 May 2026

Deposits at BRI, Mandiri and BNI were kept unchanged in May 2026 despite Bank Indonesia's rate rise to 5.25%, with short‑term deposits offering the most attractive yields. Deposits remain fully insured by LPS at 3.50% and are considered a safe instrument, with analysts expecting banks to adjust their rate strategies in Q2 2026 as inflation and liquidity evolve.

KNKT: Argo Bromo Anggrek train driver instructed to brake gradually before colliding with KRL

The KNKT disclosed that the Argo Bromo Anggrek train driver began braking 1.3 kilometres from the collision, but only gradually as instructed by the East Control Centre to brake gradually and sound the horn. When asked how much distance is required to stop, KNKT indicated that maximum braking would need around 900 to 1,000 metres. The remarks were made during a DPR Komisi V hearing as officials discussed the Bekasi Timur crash that claimed 16 lives.

Yesterday’s Economy: New WFH Policy and DHE SDA Incentives

On 21 May 2026, Indonesia’s economy was in the news for policy updates including a two‑month work-from-home plan, and readiness to offer incentives to support the foreign exchange proceeds from exports (DHE) for natural resources (SDA). Other items included awaiting KNKT findings on a Bekasi train incident, and discussions on measures affecting SMEs and customs leadership.

Dump truck tyre bursts on Jalan Gatot Subroto towards Kuningan, traffic congested

An incident on Jalan Gatot Subroto towards Kuningan saw a dump truck tyre burst, causing traffic disruption as the vehicle was evacuated. The Metro Jaya Police's Traffic Management Centre also warned of heavy jams from Semanggi to Kuningan and back, caused by a Damri bus fault near the Dirjen Pajak office, which is being attended to and towed.

Trump Rejects 'Toll' on the Strait of Hormuz and Threatens to Seize Iran's Enriched Uranium

US President Donald Trump insists there should be no tolls on traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and warns Iran it cannot retain enriched uranium, while also monitoring potential toll negotiations with Oman and reiterating that Washington will not permit Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon. He claims the US has full control of the key sea lane through a blockade that he calls 100 percent effective.

Three student demonstrations in Jakarta today; beware of traffic hotspots.

Three student demonstrations are scheduled in Central Jakarta on Friday, 22 May 2026. The first protest is set for 10:00 WIB in front of the National Nutrition Agency building on Jalan Kebon Sirih, with a second protest at 13:00 WIB on Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan by the Indonesian Anti-Corruption Students movement. A total of 725 police officers have been deployed to Central Jakarta to secure the events, and residents are advised to avoid the areas to mitigate traffic congestion.

SoftBank shares surge 12 per cent as investors flock to AI stocks after Nvidia's gains

SoftBank Group’s shares extended their rally, up 12 per cent at the close, tracking a global tech uplift sparked by Arm Holdings’ gains. The rise is driven by investor interest in AI plays as Nvidia reports stronger momentum, with SoftBank holding significant stakes in OpenAI, Arm, and T-Mobile US. The piece also notes SpaceX and OpenAI's anticipated IPOs, with OpenAI valuations and speculative bets on first-day prices.

Bangli Regency warns that lazy civil servants could be dismissed

Bangli Regency in Bali warned civil servants that laziness or unexcused absence could lead to dismissal under Government Regulation No. 94 of 2021. The regulation classifies disciplinary punishments from reprimand to demotion or dismissal and emphasises strict attendance rules, with superiors responsible for enforcing sanctions. The move aims to strengthen accountability and ensure public services are delivered efficiently.

Guard against Ebola spread as US tightens travel restrictions on East and Central Africa

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has tightened travel restrictions to prevent Ebola from entering the United States amid rising cases in East and Central Africa. The policy expands public health screening, requires monitoring of travellers from affected areas, and bans entry for non-US passport holders who have recently visited Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, or South Sudan. The agency emphasises ongoing risk assessment and international cooperation as it strengthens outbreak response.”,

Plan to convert 120 million motorcycles: costs must be affordable

Indonesia's plan to convert 120 million conventional petrol-powered motorcycles to electric motorcycles has drawn attention. Analysts say a detailed blueprint and decentralised delivery are essential to keep costs down, leveraging local mechanics and suppliers. Government incentives, standardisation of core component prices, and cross-subsidies are needed to make the transition affordable for low-income riders.

North Sumatra Governor rejects OPD project proposals that inflate the budget

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution says he will not sign project submissions from regional government agencies unless they are properly planned, evaluated, and transparently justified, following his election win. He cites a Rp484 billion building project that lacked detailed presentation and warns OPDs to avoid political manoeuvring or inflated budgets, signalling a tighter procurement regime. The move aims to ensure public funds deliver real benefits to communities.

Want to Open a Madura Warung? Here's How Much Capital You Need

Madura warungs are a popular, 24-hour convenience option offering cheap daily essentials, with start-up costs typically around Rp 13–20 million. The article outlines initial capital, licensing (NIB via OSS), strategic location, and product range as key factors for success in a competitive urban market.

BI Rate Rises: How State-Owned Banks Are Safeguarding Lending

The 50 basis point rise in Bank Indonesia's policy rate to 5.25% is being countered by state-owned banks preserving stable lending, especially to housing and MSMEs, to support domestic growth amid global headwinds. Banks stress measured rate adjustments and risk management, while BI Governor Perry Warjiyo emphasises rupiah stability and inflation control for 2026–2027.

40 Official SNBT 2026 Announcement Links for All PTNs, Complete Schedule and How to Check

UTBK-SNBT 2026 results are due to be announced on 25 May 2026 at 15:00 WIB via the official SNPMB portals. The results may be checked on the official site pengumuman-snbt.snpmb.id or via PTN mirror sites, with certificates available for download from 2 June to 31 July 2026. The article provides step-by-step instructions for checking results and explains the importance of the certificate for registration and administration at chosen universities.

Putin presents proposal to transfer Iran's enriched uranium to Russia to Xi Jinping

Putin has discussed with Xi Jinping a proposal to transfer Iran's enriched uranium to Russia in a closed conversation, with Washington yet to receive the proposal. The Kremlin said the discussion occurred over tea, and declined to disclose further details. Separately, Dmitry Peskov criticised the US blockade of Cuba as having catastrophic humanitarian consequences for ordinary Cubans and condemned coercive tactics against senior political leaders.

Foreign Media Spotlight the Rupiah, Say This

Foreign media coverage of the rupiah has highlighted its slide to around 17,600 per US dollar, surpassing the 17,000 threshold and fuelling investor concerns about Indonesia's fiscal outlook. CNA and other analysts note the currency's decline and discuss potential impacts on inflation, fiscal credibility, and policy space for Bank Indonesia.

Floods and Landslides in Tanah Datar, Ministry of Public Works Responds Rapidly

Following heavy rain that triggered floods and landslides across seven districts in Tanah Datar, West Sumatra, the Ministry of Public Works is rushing to restore road access, normalise river systems, and repair damaged infrastructure, in line with Presidential Instructions. The response includes immediate deployment by the Sumatera V Padang River Basin Office and medium- to long-term plans to curb sedimentation and bolster flood-defence infrastructure to improve regional resilience.

Global Gold Prices Steady as Markets Track Uncertainty Over End of Middle East Conflict

Gold prices were little changed at the close, helped by a drop in oil and a softer US dollar amid uncertainty over how the US-Israel–Iran conflict will be resolved. Spot gold rose 0.1% to US$4,547.54 per ounce, while June futures slipped 0.1% to US$4,542.50. Analysts warned that higher oil prices could fuel inflation and keep rate expectations volatile, though some short-term support for gold persisted.

MUI Says Israel’s Method of Capturing and Torturing Nine Indonesian Nationals Deserves Condemnation

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) condemns Israel's treatment of Global Sumud Flotilla volunteers, including nine Indonesian citizens detained, as a breach of international law. The piece notes that unity between government and civil society underpins calls for accountability and sanctions against Israel, and reports on the release of nine Indonesians and remarks from Indonesian officials.

Puan: Women must be involved in public decision-making

Indonesian House Speaker Puan Maharani has urged that women be incorporated as decision-makers in public policy rather than simply bearing the effects of global and domestic challenges. She emphasised that genuine gender empowerment requires concrete policy integration and cross-sector collaboration, including strengthening the voice of women at the grassroots. The remarks underscore broader initiatives by KPPRI to advance advocacy and inclusive governance.

Why Does a Smartphone Feel Fast at First, but Slow Down After a Year?

Smartphones typically feel brisk straight from the box, but performance can slow after months of use as apps and features accumulate. The slowdown is driven by background processes, increased system demands, and dwindling storage, with practical steps recommended to maintain speed, such as clearing cache and freeing space. Keeping 10–15% of internal storage free is advised for optimal operation.

Motorcycle-theft gang specialising in hajatan events in Serang arrested; they have carried out 15 operations

Serang Police have detained a gang of motorcycle thieves who specialise in raids at hajatan celebrations. In a three-month spree, they targeted 15 locations across Banten. The group, including Saedi, Suherman, Jimi alias Kiming and Dian, was linked to the sale of stolen bikes; police recovered five motorcycles, four mobile phones and a set of T-shaped lock wrenches, and they face potential charges under Article 477 of the KUHP.

Ministry of Social Affairs Auctions 6.2 kg of Gold from Unclaimed Prizes

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs will auction gold, precious metals and pearl jewellery valued at over Rp10 billion, sourced from HTT (unclaimed prizes) and HTDP (unclaimed by winners) from the Free Lottery Draw (UGB) since 2008. Proceeds will be used to support families in need, including housing improvements and empowerment initiatives; the auction runs from 13 to 25 May 2026 with a briefing via Zoom and is open to the public.

BMKG: Cyclonic circulation triggers potential heavy rainfall across several parts of Indonesia

BMKG reports cyclonic circulation and convergence zones may induce heavy to very heavy rainfall across multiple Indonesian regions today, with warnings of heightened readiness in Bangka Belitung, West Kalimantan and Maluku. The agency forecasts showers and thunderstorms in several major western cities and broader cloud cover across the archipelago.

Amid Canadian fears of Chinese influence, Canadian ex-Mountie acquitted of acting for Beijing

Canadian ex-RCMP officer Majcher was acquitted of a Security of Information Act charge that he allegedly helped Chinese police coerce a Canadian real estate investor to return to China. The Bureau later admitted the story relied on a photo from a fictional film and not on real meetings, illustrating how misinformation can shape national security narratives. A Canadian senator condemned hysteria over China and called for accountability, transparency, and a public inquiry into such investigations.

Jakarta: Fire at plastic warehouse and crackdown on animal-seller stalls

Jakarta was dominated by a stubborn fire at a plastic warehouse in Cengkareng, while the city also announced key supplier provinces for sacrificial animals ahead of Eid al-Adha 2026 and reported ongoing challenges in compiling KJP beneficiary data. Simultaneously, the Latumenten Flyover progressed with prefab concrete girders, and authorities cleared animal-trader stalls on sidewalks in Tanah Abang and Johar Baru.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Together with Polri, the Attorney General’s Office, the KPK, and the Ministry of Home Affairs Commit to Safeguard SPMB Ramah 2026

The Ministry of Education, Kemendikdasmen, convened with Polri, Kejaksaan, KPK, and Kemendagri to pledge oversight of SPMB Ramah 2026/2027, emphasising transparency, inclusivity and non-discrimination in the national student admissions process. The event highlighted cross‑sector collaboration and the aim of universal access to quality education, with regional authorities already implementing guidelines and private schools participating to broaden reach.

Fire at Binus University Anggrek Campus Kemanggisan, West Jakarta, Fire Department Deploys Five Fire Engines

Five fire engines were deployed to tackle a fire at the Anggrek Campus of Bina Nusantara University in Kemanggisan, Palmerah, West Jakarta. The blaze was reported at around 05:30 WIB, with the West Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service arriving by 05:40 WIB and continuing to contain the fire as thick smoke billowed from inside the campus.

How to Check PIP Recipients for May 2026 via Mobile, and See Disbursement Status Instantly

The Indonesian government has resumed disbursement of the Indonesia Pintar Programme (PIP) for May 2026, with online checks via SIPINTAR PIP enabling parents and students to verify whether funds have been released without visiting schools. The piece explains how to check recipients under Kemendikdasmen and provides notes on common status messages such as inactive accounts or absence from the disbursement Surat Keputusan (SK).

Japan's Economic Alarm! Core Inflation Slumps, BoJ Could Hold Interest Rates

Core inflation in Japan cooled more than expected in April 2026, underscoring easing domestic price pressures and complicating the Bank of Japan's path to any rapid rate hikes. While headline inflation and core-core measures slide, energy prices decline and the yen's weakness poses a mixed backdrop for policy.

Jakarta Weather Forecast 22 May 2026: Beware of Afternoon and Evening Rain

BMKG warns residents of Jakarta to expect heavy rain from the afternoon through the night on 22 May 2026, with morning conditions mainly sunny to cloudy and temperatures around 33°C. The public should brace for possible flooding and reduced visibility, as rain is forecast to persist into Friday night across the capital. Data are verified from BMKG as of 08:10 WIB on 22 May 2026.

2026 Chinese Zodiac Business Predictions: Rat Sign Expected to Lead Digital Investment Trends

2026 is forecast to see the Rat sign spearheading digital investment trends, pointing to growing opportunities in fintech, e-commerce and online services. The piece treats the zodiac as a lens to gauge market sentiment and potential investment appetite in the digital economy. If borne out, investors and businesses in Indonesia could look to these sectors for opportunities in the coming year.

Audiencerate: Riccardo Fabbri Joins as Chief Technology Officer—the AI-Driven Phase of the Platforms for SMEs and Media Agencies Begins

Audiencerate named Riccardo Fabbri as Chief Technology Officer to drive two parallel initiatives: the Audiencerate–Postel–Microsoft platform for Italian SMEs and a DV360-integrated data platform for agencies and data providers, both powered by AI and first-/third-party data. Fabbri, a software and cloud-architecture veteran who co-founded Nohup and led its European exit to Havas, brings expertise in privacy, media workflows and GDPR-compliant governance.

Sultan HB X Forms Team to Identify Causes Behind Murder Near SMAN 3 Jogja

The Governor of the DIY region has formed a dedicated team to investigate the underlying causes of a recent street-violence-linked murder near SMAN 3 Jogja. The team will work to determine whether the incident is ordinary youth mischief or linked to gang dynamics, coordinating with police and local communities.

Facts Behind Natalius Pigai's Rejection of a Shoot-to-Kill Policy for Robbers

Natalius Pigai, Indonesia's Minister of Human Rights, rejects the notion of shooting criminals on sight, arguing it violates human rights and international law and underscoring the need for lawful arrests to gather evidence. He warns that such statements could be used as evidence in human rights investigations and stresses the state's duty to protect citizens through due process.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Teams Up with Telkomsel to Strengthen Coverage for Informal Workers Through 'Jamsostek Poin'

Telkomsel Enterprise and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan signed a Cooperation Agreement and launched the Jamsostek Poin benefit package to extend access to social protection for informal workers. The package integrates data connectivity with BPJS Ketenagakerjaan protection, accessible via the MyTelkomsel app and other channels, targeting ride-hail drivers, couriers, and micro-entrepreneurs. The collaboration aims to broaden universal coverage with simpler registration and ongoing protection.

Green SM taxi driver's negligence triggers KRL crash in East Bekasi; driver now a suspect

Richard Rudolf Passelima, driver of the Green SM taxi, has been named a suspect in a KRL collision at a level crossing in East Bekasi. Police say the driver’s negligence caused the crash and he was not detained due to the absence of fatalities or injuries; the case is being treated as a minor offence. The incident is separate from another KRL collision at Bekasi Timur Station.

Indonesia to mandate 5% ethanol-blended petrol from July 2026

Indonesia will impose a 5% ethanol blend in petrol (E5) from July 2026 at selected sites, with feedstock sourced domestically only. The rollout, set to run alongside the B50 biodiesel mandate, relies on limited local ethanol production from three producers totaling around 26,000 kilolitres; licensing rules are being simplified as KBLI is aligned to biofuels.

Gold Prices Today on Pegadaian: Antam, UBS and Galeri24 Rise Across the Board

Gold prices at Pegadaian rose on 22 May 2026, with Antam, UBS, and Galeri24 all posting gains. Antam reached Rp2,898,000 per gram, UBS Rp2,849,000, and Galeri24 Rp2,788,000, as pegadaian data at 07:07 WIB reflected a broader uptick in the market.

Catch Up on Pestapora Rehearsal News and Electric-Vehicle Incentives

ANTARA's entertainment desk reports that Indonesian artists including Rhoma Irama will perform at Pestapora Rehearsal in Kuala Lumpur; a short Indonesian film won the CANAL+ Award at Cannes Critics’ Week; a Lithuanian study examines how parental attitudes affect children's friendships; the iQOO 15T debuts in China with a 200 MP camera and an 8000 mAh battery; and Moeldoko of Periklindo hails Indonesia's EV purchase incentives as a boon for consumers and the industry.

Director General of Customs Allegedly Received 213,000 SGD in Bribes, Here's What the KPK Chairman Said

The KPK said it would consider summoning Djaka Budi Utama, the Director General of Customs, as a witness in a bribery case related to imports. The agency's leadership is weighing its strategy as investigations and court proceedings unfold, following a February OTT that led to multiple arrests and the seizure of cash in Ciputat.

Debureaucratisation and Deregulation Welcomed as Export Centralisation Comes Under Scrutiny

The Prabowo administration pledges to debureaucratise and deregulate while pursuing centralised export governance for strategic natural resources. Business groups welcome reform but warn that a single state-controlled export body could add administrative layers and threaten trade flexibility; the government has established a platform to represent exports and is seeking to maintain efficiency amid existing long-term contracts and spot trades.

Prabowo Claims to Have Advanced Tool to Track Corruptors' Bunkers

President Prabowo Subianto says cutting-edge technology can reveal hidden wealth even when corrupt officials hide in underground bunkers. He warned there should be no new corruption and said radar and satellite imagery would be used to locate bunkers and other concealments, including vast land and plantation holdings. He urged the public to report corrupt officials and reminded that the TNI-Polri are accountable to the people.

Chery Q Opens Pre-Orders, Down Payment Starts at Rp5 Million

Chery has started taking early reservations for its new electric car, the Chery Q, ahead of its official Indonesian launch. The company plans to reveal the launch and pricing at GIIAS 2026, with deliveries expected in August–September 2026. The Sigma Package of features will be bundled for early buyers at no extra cost, while a price around Rp200 million is anticipated.

Cash Seizure From Former Aide Opens Chance for KPK to Question Budi Karya Sumadi

The KPK has seized hundreds of millions of rupiah from Robby Kurniawan, the former expert staffer to the Minister of Transportation, as part of an ongoing graft case involving rail projects managed by the DJKA of the Ministry of Transportation. The agency has signalled that former minister Budi Karya Sumadi could be questioned as the investigation widens; 21 suspects have already been detained and two companies charged in the multi-province case. The seizure underscores ongoing anti-corruption scrutiny of infrastructure procurement in Indonesia.

Tiger Sighting in Cangar Forest, Batu Malang Goes Viral

A tiger sighting in Tahura Raden Soerjo, Cangar, Batu, Malang, East Java, has gone viral on social media. Local officials say the video is unverified and that staff have not encountered any tiger, while a short clip circulated on TikTok previously suggested such a sighting. The authorities urged caution and noted that misinformation often circulates online.

Elon Musk Boasts His Creation Is on a Par with Jesus Christ's Miracles

Elon Musk told a forum in Israel that Neuralink's breakthroughs are 'Jesus-level' technology, claiming it could restore vision and movement in paralysed people, though no such outcomes have been demonstrated. The report also recounts Musk's history of boasting and several allegations from former colleagues and critics, including claims about AI timelines and autopilot advertisements.

Red onions in Jakarta climb to Rp 58,062 per kilogram

Red onions in Jakarta rose to Rp 58,062 per kilogram, up Rp 1,286, the strongest move among food prices tracked. The Jakarta Info Pangan data show mixed movements across staples, with rice and potatoes increasing, peppers varying, and tomatoes easing.

Government Forms State-Owned Enterprise PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia to Manage Export Governance

Indonesia has established a new state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, to enhance governance and transparency of the nation’s export trade. The move follows government regulations on natural-resource export governance and aims to curb practices such as under-invoicing and transfer pricing, with phased reporting starting mid-2026 and a three-month transition period.

Mortgage instalments tighten as BI Rate rises? Here is a strategy to keep your finances secure.

The rise in Bank Indonesia's benchmark rate (BI Rate) by 50 basis points to 5.25% at the May 2026 RDG increases repayments for mortgage borrowers, particularly those with floating-rate schemes. The article outlines practical steps—pay instalments promptly, cut discretionary spending, and build an emergency fund—to safeguard families’ cash flow and prevent loan delinquencies.

Finally! 9 Indonesian Nationals Freed from the Grip of the Zionist Army

Nine Indonesian nationals, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 humanitarian mission, were detained by Israeli forces but have been freed after 3-4 days. The release was confirmed by Global Peace Convoy Indonesia and announced by Indonesia's Foreign Minister, with praise for Turkey's facilitation of repatriation.

Government Establishes PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia to Reform Natural Resource Exports

Indonesia is creating a new state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, to strengthen governance and transparency of national natural resource exports. The plan includes a national platform under the Danantara Investment Management Agency, exclusive reporting requirements, and a phased rollout from mid-2026, supported by a digital monitoring system to close significant revenue leakage.

Director-General: Prevention of non-procedural Hajj departures is a form of state protection

The Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration says preventing non-procedural Hajj departures is a preventive measure to protect citizens, citing real-time data integration across immigration checkpoints and ongoing enforcement at Kualanamu International Airport. The move aims to shield Indonesians from exploitation, fraud, and legal vulnerabilities, with 157 such cases prevented during Haj 2026.

Export Scheme Through State-Owned Enterprises Risks Cutting Margins; Downstream-Focused Issuers Safer

Indonesia's government will require export contracts for three strategic commodities to be mediated by state-owned Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, with Phase One running June–August 2026 and full BUMN primacy taking effect from September 2026. The move could compress private exporters' margins and reshape national commodity trade, while issuers focused on downstream processing and the domestic market may be better positioned to weather the change.

Friday morning, prices for three gold brands at Pegadaian rise simultaneously

Prices for three Pegadaian gold brands rose on Friday morning to Rp2,849,000 for UBS, Rp2,898,000 for Antam and Rp2,788,000 per gram for Galeri24. The article also provides last Thursday's levels and a full price table across different gram sizes; Antam's official price is updated on Logam Mulia after 08:30 WIB, with Galeri24 and UBS offering broader quantity ranges.

BYD Claims Maintenance Costs for M6 DM Are Not Higher Than Those for Petrol Cars

BYD asserts that maintenance costs for the M6 DM plug-in hybrid are not higher than for conventional petrol cars with a similar 1,500 cc engine, and that internal research suggests it could even be lower. The company also highlights fuel efficiency and three driving modes, positioning the M6 DM as a cost‑effective PHEV in Indonesia.

After Meeting RI 1, Airlangga Confirms DHE Policy to Take Effect on 1 June 2026

Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, says the government has finalised regulatory instruments for the export proceeds from exports (DHE) policy, set to take effect on 1 June 2026. The plan includes oversight for exports of strategic commodities via PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia, and socialisation with business associations to ensure understanding of the new policy; foreign investors are urged to remain calm while the system is fine-tuned over the next three months.

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Chaos-Stricken Nation Gripped by Crisis as President Reshuffles His Cabinet

Bolivia’s president Rodrigo Paz announced plans to reshuffle his cabinet amid widespread protests and rising calls for his resignation. The move comes as pressure on his government intensifies over economic reforms and fuel subsidy cuts, with opposition figures and international reactions heightening tensions.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Visits Arafah to Check Readiness of Facilities Ahead of Armuzna

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, personally inspected readiness of facilities for Indonesian pilgrims in Arafah ahead of Armuzna. The visit focused on catering, sanitation, and elder- and disability-friendly services, including readiness of Ready to Eat meals and toilet facilities, with a plan to work with Saudi authorities to expand sanitation capacity next year. The checks underscore the government's commitment to safe, comfortable, and inclusive hajj services for elderly pilgrims.

Prevent Export Fraud: PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia Improves Transaction Transparency

The Indonesian government is establishing PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, a new state-owned enterprise under the Investment and Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) to enhance governance and transparency of export transactions for natural resource commodities, aiming to curb under-invoicing and transfer pricing and align prices with global market indices. The move is expected to bolster regulatory compliance, strengthen state revenues, and restore trust with domestic and global trading partners.

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush? A Doctor's Advice

Dentists advise replacing a toothbrush every three months to maintain oral health and reduce bacteria buildup. The guidance also applies to electric toothbrush heads, which should be changed every three to four months or sooner if the bristles wear. Signs include frayed, bent, or discoloured bristles, or a toothbrush that no longer feels clean or smells unpleasant.

Defence of Three TNI Soldiers in Murder Case of State-Owned Bank Branch Manager After Prosecutors Demand Prison Term and Dismissal

Three Indonesian National Armed Forces soldiers—Serka Mochamad Nasir, Kopda Feri Herianto, and Serka Frengky Yaru—defend against murder charges in the killing of a state-owned bank branch manager, Mohammad Ilham Pradipta, at a Jakarta military court. Their lawyers argue the charges are unproven and request the panel to reject the four-year prison sentence sought by the Military Prosecutor, while the defendants maintain they merely followed orders.

Tempo Journalist's Account of Detention by the Israeli Military

Indonesian citizens abducted during the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 humanitarian mission to Gaza have been released and are undergoing medical checks in Istanbul before repatriation. Among them is Tempo TV journalist Andre Prasetyo Nugroho, who reports injuries from alleged abuse by Israeli forces and notes consular support as they await departure home.

IPOMI Reveals B50 Biodiesel Problems: Not Technology, But SPBU Storage

IPOMI warns that the planned expansion of mandatory B50 biodiesel poses practical challenges for road transport operators, not due to technology but storage at SPBU. Operators report biodiesel blends turning to a gel in underground tanks, leading to clogged filters, reduced engine power, and higher maintenance costs, prompting some to install magnet-based catalytic devices to separate water from the fuel.

Central Java Weather Forecast Today, 22 May 2026: Extreme Weather Alert in 28 Regions and Threat of Coastal Tidal Flooding

BMKG has issued an early warning for extreme weather affecting 28 districts in Central Java on Friday, 22 May, with the possibility of coastal tidal flooding on the northern coast and high waves in southern waters. Morning is generally cloudy, with afternoon to evening rain likely across most areas; temperatures are forecast to range from 18 to 34 degrees Celsius with humidity between 50 and 95 percent. The adverse weather could disrupt transport, port operations, and coastal livelihoods.

AMD's Legendary Gaming Processor Re-released, Suitable for Low-Budget PCs

AMD plans to re-release its legendary Ryzen 7 5800X3D as a 10th Anniversary Edition for the AM4 ecosystem, preserving the original specs and 100 MB of 3D V-Cache. Priced around $310 in a retailer listing, the edition targets budget-conscious gamers by offering AM4 compatibility with modern performance without migrating to AM5.

Why the Sultan Has Asked for the Garebeg Besar Ceremony to Be Simplified

The Yogyakarta Kraton will simplify Garebeg Besar this year as part of budget savings and to avoid displays of luxury amid economic pressures. The plan removes gunungan processions and opening rituals, with potential Abdi Dalem involvement only for Sekaten; the full procession may be reintroduced if conditions improve. The move aligns with central budget cuts and reflects the flexible nature of ceremonial traditions in the Yogyakarta Sultanate.

Not Just Sacred: Hundreds of Badung's Ancient Lontars Go Digital

Badung's Archives and Libraries Service has begun digitising ancient lontar manuscripts to safeguard their knowledge. Since 2024, nearly 200 bundles have been digitised, with government outreach underway to reframe lontars as living sources of knowledge rather than merely sacred relics.

Djoko's Story of Studying at 68: From Feeling Tech-Challenged to Graduating with a 3.98 CGPA

At the age of 68, BRIN researcher Djoko Slamet Pudjorahardjo completed a Master of Engineering Physics at Universitas Gadjah Mada with a CGPA of 3.98, studying via the Master by Research programme in 1 year, 11 months and 29 days. His thesis examined the design of a multicusp ion source for a 30 MeV cyclotron, and the graduation is framed as a milestone ahead of his retirement and a testament to lifelong learning.

Traffic on Jakarta's Toll Roads This Morning: Smooth, Congested, and Contraflow in Place

Traffic on Jakarta's toll roads this morning varied, with some sections flowing smoothly while others were congested, prompting contraflow arrangements on the Tol Dalam Kota. Congestion was also reported on the Jakarta–Tangerang corridor due to high volumes and a heavy-vehicle fault near KM 15, though tolls on JORR W2U and Serpong–Cinere remained clear. The contraflow measures aim to ease bottlenecks and ensure smoother traffic flow.

Wall Street closes higher as oil prices fall and hopes of a US-Iran détente rise

US shares closed higher on Thursday after oscillating in the morning, supported by softer oil prices and rising expectations for a potential US-Iran détente. While sentiment improved, geopolitical tensions persisted as talks continued over Iran's uranium enrichment and control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Horn-honking incident in Cibubur ends with car driver charged as a suspect

An incident over a horn honk on Jalan Alternatif Cibubur-Cileungsi in Gunung Putri, Bogor, left a driver named as a suspect after he assaulted another motorist and damaged his vehicle. Police say the suspect RG, 40, has been identified and charged under the Indonesian Criminal Code, with a potential sentence of up to 2.5 years, after a video of the beating circulated online.

Gold Prices Go Nowhere, Traders Fed Up with Trump's Promises

Gold prices drifted as oil markets remained volatile amid uncertain prospects for resolving the US–Iran conflict. A softer dollar and lower yields supported bullion in the short term, but traders remain cautious amid past deal failures and ongoing geopolitical tensions that could influence Federal Reserve policy this year.

Dispute Between Ahmad Bahar and Hercules Continues as His Daughter Alleges Intimidation; GRIB Jaya Denies

The daughter of Ahmad Bahar has testified about her experience being taken to GRIB Jaya’s headquarters in Kedoya, West Jakarta, for clarification over alleged threats and provocation videos sent to Hercules’s wife via WhatsApp. She described being surrounded by a group of men and pressured during the visit, while Hercules maintained the accusations against her; the issue persists alongside mediation at the Depok police.

Indonesian House of Representatives Praises Government's Success in Securing the Release of Indonesian Citizens Detained by Israel

The deputy chair of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sukamta, praised the government's swift and coordinated efforts to secure the release of Indonesians detained by Israel while participating in Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0. He highlighted the crucial role of the Foreign Ministry and Indonesian diplomatic missions, and thanked Turkey for its assistance, as the nine Indonesian volunteers were repatriated via Istanbul to Jakarta.

Google CEO Opens Up on the Future of AI Replacing Humans at Work

Google CEO Sundar Pichai outlines the future of AI, including the rise of AI agents capable of handling more specific tasks and the need for transparency and user control in development. He notes open-source AI models—some emerging from China—and proprietary models both have roles, with the US needing to maintain competitiveness while ensuring reliability and safety. He also warns that Artificial General Intelligence raises ethical and societal challenges and calls for a careful, collaborative approach among industry, government and researchers.

Former Civil Servant Turned Qur'an Teacher in Kediri Molests 12 Children; Here's His Modus Operandi

Police in Kediri say a retired civil servant who became a Qur'an teacher molested 12 underage children, using his photocopy shop as a trap and exposing himself to victims as part of his modus operandi. Investigations indicate some victims faced more aggressive acts, with three lured inside the shop and kissed; police warn more victims may exist.

Get Ready! BTN to Offer 40-Year Mortgage to Support the 3 Million Homes Programme

BTN announced a 40-year mortgage option to keep instalments affordable as housing prices rise, supporting the 3 million homes programme and the government's 2045 Swasembada Papan target. The move underscores concerns over housing backlog and substandard housing, and highlights the call for greater government–industry–financing collaboration to reach low‑income households by 2045.

PAN Legislator Praises Foreign Ministry for Returning Nine Indonesian Citizens, Flotilla Volunteers, from Israel

A PAN legislator praised Indonesia's Foreign Ministry and diplomatic corps for securing the safe exit of nine Indonesian nationals involved in a humanitarian flotilla from Israel. She urged stronger international cooperation to protect Indonesian citizens, journalists, and humanitarian workers in conflict zones, stressing adherence to international law.

Idea to Shoot Street Robbers Dead: DPR Members Back It, Minister Pigai Opposes

The Lampung Police Chief proposed shoot-at-sight for street robbers, drawing both support from some DPR members and opposition from Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai. The episode highlights tensions between public security measures, the rule of law, and human rights as robberies surge across multiple regions, including Makassar and Jakarta.

Besides Preventing Fraud, Indonesia's Commodity Export Agency Must Strengthen the Country's Bargaining Position

The Indonesian government plans a state-owned commodity export agency, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, to curb record manipulation and boost exporters’ bargaining power, pricing, and access to finance. Officials say it should act as an export aggregator and service platform while maintaining transparency and avoiding excessive margins that burden exporters, with wide implications for foreign exchange earnings, rupiah stability, and national trade data.

Strengthening the Independent Seed Programme to Address Seed Shortages

The Indonesian government is intensifying its Mandiri Benih seed programme to achieve self-sufficiency by 2025, expanding local seed production and improving access to certified seeds for farmers. The initiative includes input provision, farmer-group capacity-building, and measurable targets, with notable progress since 2015 and concrete case study in West Java.

Cut Methane Emissions: Minister Jumhur Joins Forces with Korea

Indonesia launched the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation for Methane Mitigation (AKCMM) with Korea and the Global Green Growth Institute in Jakarta on 21 May 2026, to bolster climate action. The three-year programme, worth USD 20 million, focuses on reducing methane from organic waste at landfills and is implemented under PARMA with support from AKCF; Indonesia is the third ASEAN country to participate after Malaysia and the Philippines.

Bobby Responds to Rico Waas’s Overseas Trip Not Communicated to the Governor

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution explains the administrative mechanism that travel permissions for regional heads must pass through the governor and then Mendagri. The case of Medan Mayor Rico Waas travelling abroad for medical reasons, reportedly reported to Mendagri rather than the governor, raises questions about protocol; Rico says the trip was privately funded and reported to the central government.

Jakarta's air improves on Friday morning, but still 13th most polluted city in the world

Jakarta's air quality improved to 'moderate' on Friday morning, 22 May 2026, according to IQAir data, but the city remains the 13th most polluted in the world at that time. The worst cities globally were Riyadh, Santiago and Kolkata, while IQAir urged vulnerable groups to limit outdoor activities and wear masks. Jakarta has shown ongoing fluctuations in air quality in recent weeks.

AI Won’t Replace Human Jobs, But Why Are There So Many Layoffs?

Global tech giants have been cutting thousands of jobs even as they pour money into artificial intelligence. Meta has slashed around 10% of its workforce while boosting AI expenditure into the hundreds of billions of dollars, a move Zuckerberg says is about productivity, not replacement. Analysts say the wave reflects an industry transition and a shift of resources to AI infrastructure, with AI Washing and other factors also at play.

Putin's envoy warns Europe of 'great disaster' ahead

Kirill Dmitriev, a Kremlin envoy, warns of an imminent 'energy crisis tsunami' hitting the EU and the UK as geopolitical turmoil and supply disruptions intensify. Since late February, oil prices have surged by around 50%, prompting emergency measures such as UK licence exemptions for Russian diesel and jet fuel imports while the EU maintains its plan to phase out Russian fossil fuels by 2027.

Head of BP BUMN Outlines Conditions to Become a BUMN Director

Dony Oskaria, head of BP BUMN and Chief Operating Officer of Danantara, says BUMN directors must combine strong leadership with strategic and governance capabilities to navigate complex global dynamics. He emphasises integrity, accountability, resilience, and stakeholder trust as essential for sustainable transformation, as the Director Onboarding Programme strengthens leadership alignment and governance ahead of future competitiveness and growth in Indonesia.

All Indonesian Nationals Kidnapped by Israel Have Arrived in Istanbul

Nine Indonesian nationals abducted by Israel during a humanitarian mission to Gaza were released and arrived in Istanbul, from where they will be repatriated. They will undergo health checks and other procedures, with a firm repatriation date to Indonesia to be confirmed once those steps are completed. Israel’s interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla near Cyprus affected 450 volunteers; while the situation appears stabilising, monitoring continues via legal, diplomatic, and international networks supporting the flotilla.

MAPI Tender Offer at Rp1,550 per Share Starts on 18 June 2026; Here is the Profile of the New Controlling UBO

The article announces MAPI's tender offer priced at Rp1,550 per share, commencing on 18 June 2026, and includes a profile of the new controlling Ultimate Beneficial Owner. However, the body content largely promotes Bareksa's investment products and services rather than detailing the tender itself.

Marquee Brands Forms Strategic Partnership with DAMAC Group for Majority Share Ownership in Roberto Cavalli

Marquee Brands has announced a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in Roberto Cavalli through a strategic partnership with DAMAC Group. The deal is expected to close in Q2 2026, with DAMAC remaining the principal shareholder, and will expand Marquee Brands’ luxury portfolio. The partnership aims to accelerate Roberto Cavalli’s global expansion and introduce new categories and experiences via The Level Group.

Locations of the Metro Jaya Police Mobile Samsat on Friday

The Metro Jaya Police Traffic Directorate opened a series of Mobile Samsat service centres across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang and Bekasi (Jadetabek) to facilitate annual vehicle tax validation and PKB/SWDKLLJ payments. Five-year vehicle tax payments and plate replacements must be completed in person at Samsat offices. The locations and hours were posted on the police’s official X account on Friday.

Marquee Brands Enters Strategic Partnership With DAMAC Group for a Majority Interest in Roberto Cavalli

Marquee Brands has agreed to take a majority stake in Roberto Cavalli through a strategic partnership with DAMAC Group, with completion expected in Q2 2026 and DAMAC remaining a significant shareholder. The acquisition expands Marquee Brands' luxury portfolio to include Cavalli and positions the brand for accelerated growth across Europe, the United States, the Middle East, Asia Pacific and Latin America, while DAMAC continues to expand through Cavalli-branded residences and hospitality projects. The Level Group will operate Cavalli’s collections and distribution, supported by Neuberger Private Markets as part of Marquee’s scalable growth model.

Xi Jinping reportedly set to visit Pyongyang after meeting Trump

South Korea's Yonhap News Agency reports that Chinese President Xi Jinping is likely to visit Pyongyang as early as next week, potentially aiming to mediate between North Korea and the United States. The claim follows Xi's meeting with US President Donald J. Trump in Beijing and notes that a request by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung for Xi to help mediate inter-Korean ties was reportedly met positively. Xi also hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing this week, days after Trump's arrival.

Zohar Regev Released, All Global Sumud Flotilla Volunteers Freed

An Ashkelon Magistrates' Court ordered the release of humanitarian activist Zohar Regev from illegal detention after interception during a flotilla mission to the Gaza Strip in international waters. Regev, an Israeli citizen, was released subject to conditions including a 5,000 shekel personal bail and a 60-day ban from entering Gaza, completing the release of all Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 participants abducted by the IDF.

Which Fast Is More Meritorious: Tarwiyah or Arafah? Here Is the Explanation

Two sunnah fasts observed in the first ten days of Dzulhijjah are Tarwiyah (8th) and Arafah (9th). While Tarwiyah is meritorious, Arafah fasting has a stronger basis and is believed to expiate sins for two years; many scholars advise observing both in sequence before Eid al-Adha. The article outlines differences, their hadith sources, and the 2026 timetable.

Constitutional Court Deputy Chief Urges Mobile Operators Not to Merely Defend, but to Find Solutions for Expired Internet Quotas

The Deputy Chief Justice of Indonesia's Constitutional Court, Saldi Isra, has urged mobile operators to collaborate under ATSI to propose workable remedies in the constitutional review of the Job Creation Law concerning expired internet quotas, rather than offering defensive testimonies. He emphasised that the court seeks a solution that preserves business viability while protecting consumers from harm, and urged a collaborative approach under the association.

Parliamentary Watch Team Finds Hajj 2026 Services Better and More Well-Organised

Parliamentary watchdog Timwas says the 2026 Hajj operation ran more smoothly and was better organised from departure to arrival in Jeddah. The improvements are linked to the creation of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and include a reduction in the Biaya Penyelenggaraan Ibadah Haji (BPIH) to Rp87.4 million per pilgrim, along with upgraded accommodation and enhanced services for women and the elderly. The government is urged to continue improving service quality and safety for pilgrims.

Head of the National Nutrition Agency Denies Reports that the KPK Detained His Subordinates

The head of the National Nutrition Agency denies reports that the Corruption Eradication Commission arrested his staff, calling the rumours false. He is currently in Makkah performing the Hajj and urged people not to believe false news.

Yesterday's crime round-up: Terra Drone Indonesia chief sentenced and four foreign nationals arrested

Key developments include the sentencing of Terra Drone Indonesia’s President Director to 1 year and 4 months for the Terra Drone building fire that killed 22 people, and the capture of four mugging suspects. Separately, police detained a man for allegedly carrying a mini revolver, and immigration authorities arrested four Chinese nationals over an online scam masquerading as a payment app.

Muara Angke tidal flood-mitigation dyke turns decades-old damaged road into a smooth surface

A tidal flood-mitigation dyke along Muara Angke in North Jakarta has transformed a decades-old, damaged road into a smooth concrete surface, improving safety and accessibility for residents. The 1.1 km raised path also helps reduce tidal flooding, with further protection planned under the NCICD project along the Muara Angke river and coast.

Rapped in Blueray Case, Customs Director-General Djaka Budhi Utama Has Rp5.7 Billion in Assets

Prosecutors told a Jakarta court that Customs Director-General Djaka Budhi Utama allegedly received bribes totaling SG$213,600 in a single month in a case involving Bribe payments and facilitation from Blueray Cargo boss John Field. The article also details LHKPN disclosures showing assets of Rp5.7 billion, including land, buildings, a Toyota Innova and cash, with a liability of Rp70 million, as the case proceeds before the Jakarta Corruption Court.

Korlantas Tightens Traffic Escort Rules

Indonesian traffic police (Korlantas) reinforce standard operating procedures for traffic escort duties to raise professionalism and improve road user comfort. They outline eight key requirements, including proper documentation, restrained use of lights and sirens, courteousgestures, and strict adherence to traffic laws.

Committed to 'Emas-ing Indonesia', PT Pegadaian posts stellar performance at the start of 2026

Pegadaian reported a net profit of Rp4.38 trillion for the period to 30 April 2026, up 87.2% from a year earlier, with total assets reaching Rp183.8 trillion. The company also recorded a stronger loan book, lower NPL, and continued profitability momentum, while expanding its gold ecosystem and Bulion services as it marks Pegadaian's 125th anniversary.

ESDM Offers 118 Oil and Gas Working Blocks; Bahlil: No Need for Back-Room Negotiations

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has offered 118 potential oil and gas working blocks to investors to accelerate exploration and development of the national upstream sector, aligning with a target of 900,000 to 1,000,000 barrels per day by 2029–2030. As of May 2026, 118 WKs had been identified across study and data acquisition stages, with eight already contracted under the 2025 auction; total resource potential is around 255 million barrels of oil and 13.79 TCF of gas. The government emphasises openness to investors with technology and capital, urging them to manage resources for the public good.

I Squared Capital Launches Cube Grid – A New Electricity Transmission Platform in India

I Squared Capital announced the launch of Cube Grid, a new electricity transmission platform aimed at acquiring and developing high‑quality transmission assets across India, backed by up to USD 1 billion in equity. The venture, developed with Dineshchandra Group, targets a portfolio beginning with over 1,450 circuit kilometres of transmission lines and comes as India plans a major grid expansion supported by policy drivers and renewable energy growth.

Between Security and Privacy: Should Social Media Accounts Be Required to Include a Phone Number?

Indonesia's Ministry of Communications is weighing a rule to require phone numbers on social media accounts to curb misinformation and other online threats. Critics warn it could compromise privacy and invite abuse, urging focus on completing the Personal Data Protection Act implementing rules and the PDP body before such a measure is considered.

Exports Via New DSI in 2027, Oil Prices Fall: Could It Help the IHSG Recover?

The IHSG fell 3.54% to 6,094.94 amid broad-based declines, with heavyweight stocks weighing on the index and foreign selling continuing. In global markets, US stocks rose as oil prices fell and Nvidia reported stronger results, while traders priced in a possible 25 basis point Fed rate rise in December and potential moves by March 2027, keeping markets volatile but showing some upside for risk assets if oil remains soft.

Israel's Inhumane Treatment of Flotilla Activists Draws Widespread Condemnation

Hundreds of Global Sumud Flotilla activists were detained after their ships en route to Gaza were intercepted and taken to an Israeli port. A video posted by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir showing detainees kneeling with their foreheads on the floor and hands bound sparked international condemnation, with leaders and foreign ministers from Italy, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, the UK and others calling for explanations and action. Prime Minister Netanyahu criticised the handling and ordered deportations, with the flotilla volunteers reported to have been deported to Istanbul, Turkey.

I Squared Capital Launches Cube Grid – A New Power Transmission Platform in India

Cube Grid has signed definitive agreements for seed assets totaling over 1,450 circuit kilometres of transmission lines with DRAIPL (Dineshchandra Group). The deal reflects India's expected growth in power transmission, underpinned by government policy and a USD 120 billion capex plan over five to seven years to integrate renewables. The transaction, expected to close in Q3 2026, highlights I Squared Capital's platform approach and the potential pipeline for greenfield developments and asset acquisitions.

Aggressive tent allocation in Arafah threatens KBIHU operating licence revocation

Indonesia's deputy minister for Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak ordered the removal of illegal markers placed by KBIHU on tents in Arafah during a visit to review wukuf facilities, warning that violations risk revoking KBIHU licences. The government's by-name tent allocation system for Hajj 2026 aims to prevent pilgrims from being left without tents, and authorities emphasise that only PPIH Saudi Arabia has authority to manage tent placement. The government signalled strict sanctions against KBIHU for non-compliance, including potential licence revocation.

BEI reminds investors to invest in the capital market for the long term - VOI.id

BEI's Acting President Director Jeffrey Hendrik urges investors to view the capital market as a long-term investment, expressing optimism that Indonesia's economic fundamentals will improve and citing government moves to ease business licensing. He referenced President Prabowo Subianto's remarks during a DPR plenary meeting about faster licensing as a catalyst for growth, noting potential positive effects on the market in the medium to long term. On May 21, the JCI fell 3.54% to 6,094.94 with broad sector declines, underscoring current market volatility.

GPCI Thanks Government and Parliament for Assistance with the Repatriation of 9 Indonesian Nationals from Israel

Indonesia, with support from the government, the Indonesian Parliament (DPR) and international partners including Turkey, helped secure the release of nine Indonesian nationals detained by Israeli forces during the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0. The group has left Israel and is en route to Istanbul to complete their journey home, with the government condemning the detention and praising diplomatic efforts.

Hana Bank Posts Rp200.78 Billion Profit, Driving Business Through LINE Bank

Hana Bank Indonesia reported a net profit of Rp200.78 billion for Q1 2026, up 23.84% from a year earlier, underpinned by continued loan growth and rising third-party funds. Loans stood at Rp39.67 trillion, up 3.63% YoY, while DPK rose 11.78% to Rp30.83 trillion, with NPL gross at 0.72% and NPL net at 0.27% (below the national banking industry average) and a CAR of 27.05% (above the sector average). The lender is targeting Rp650.11 billion in net profit and Rp56.65 trillion in assets by end-2026 and is expanding its digital services through LINE Bank by Hana Bank, including a mutual fund investment feature for customers.

Meaningful Participation: BSOJK Appoints Acting BRK Syariah CEO as Speaker

Acting BRK Syariah CEO Helwin Yunus spoke at the national Meaningful Participation forum in Batam, organised by the Financial Services Authority Supervisory Board (BSOJK) and the DPR RI Commission XI. The forum focused on strengthening financial literacy and consumer protection in the financial services sector, emphasising BRK Syariah's commitment to transparent, educational banking and financial inclusion under Law No. 4 of 2023 on the Development and Strengthening of the Financial Sector (UU PPSK).

Foreign Minister Sugiono: Nine Indonesian Activists on the Global Sumud Flotilla Detained by Israel Arrive in Istanbul

Nine Indonesian nationals aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla have arrived safely in Istanbul after detention by Israeli forces. The Indonesian government is coordinating repatriation with Turkey and other partners, condemning the treatment of the volunteers as inhumane and a violation of international law; the incident has highlighted Indonesia's stance on Palestine and international humanitarian norms.

Mojtaba Khamenei Delivers Sudden Address on Iran's Nuclear Programme: A Standoff With Trump

Iran's Supreme Leader has ordered that stockpiled enriched uranium near weapon‑grade levels must not be exported, reinforcing Tehran's position ahead of US‑led peace talks. The move, described by sources as united within the regime, comes amid a fragile ceasefire and rising suspicions of Western deception, with discussions seeking alternatives such as diluting the stock under IAEA supervision.

Surge in Fraudulent Replacement of Hotel Phone Numbers on Google Maps, PHRI DIY Warn Tourists to Be Vigilant

PHRI DIY in Yogyakarta has warned tourists about scammers who alter hotel phone numbers on Google Maps and have expanded to social media such as TikTok. The warning comes amid other local concerns about fake official letters circulating in the city, which authorities say are hoaxes.

Israel Releases Nine Indonesian Global Sumud Flotilla Activists for Medical Procedures in Turkey

Nine Indonesian volunteers from Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 who arrived in Istanbul are to undergo medical checks, visa processing, and testimonies before returning to Indonesia. Indonesian officials say the volunteers are being assisted by the Consulate General in Istanbul, with coordinated efforts to expedite repatriation, while condemning the treatment by Israeli authorities.

Solo–Jogja KRL timetable for 22, 23 and 24 May 2026

The Solo–Jogja KRL timetable covers weekend departures from multiple stations along the route, with services operating from morning until night on 22–24 May 2026. The timetable, published by PT KAI, lists dozens of daily departures from Solo to Yogyakarta to help travellers plan their trip.

Indonesian Consul-General Reveals Indonesians Abducted by Israel Suffer Torture: Kicked and Electrocuted

Nine Indonesian nationals abducted by Israeli forces have been released and are now in Turkey, after being evacuated from the occupied Palestinian territories. The group, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0, were detained for four to five days and reportedly subjected to physical abuse, including kicking, beating and electroshocks. The Indonesian Consul-General in Istanbul said repatriation would be arranged at the earliest opportunity.

ASEAN discusses modernising cross-border trade procedures

ASEAN member states discussed ways to advance the ASEAN Single Window to modernise cross-border trade procedures. The 75th meeting of the Working Group on Technical Aspects for the ASEAN Single Window, hosted by Laos’ Department of Customs, took place from 19 to 22 May in Vientiane to enhance regional trade facilitation. Delegates highlighted ASW’s role in driving regional economic integration, boosting customs efficiency, reducing documentation barriers, and simplifying cross-border trade across ASEAN.

Pros and Cons of the Toyota Veloz Hybrid; Denza Trademark Dispute

A roundup of the automotive stories most popular on Thursday, 21 May 2026, including experiences with the Toyota Veloz Hybrid, BYD M6 DM’s competition in electrified family cars, VinFast’s Early Booking Programme for battery-swappable e-motorcycles, Denza B5’s right-hand drive appearance, and ongoing Denza trademark litigation in Indonesia despite a Supreme Court ruling.

Looking at the government's plan to require social media accounts to include phone numbers

Indonesia's government, via the Ministry of Communications and Digital (Komdigi), is considering a rule mandating every social media account to display a mobile phone number. The plan, first announced by Minister Meutya Hafid, is still under discussion and public consultation. Proponents say it will clarify user identity and strengthen the digital identity framework through the Electronic Certification Provider (PSRE), as part of broader efforts to bolster national resilience against cyber threats, while authorities tighten oversight and have begun investigations into platforms such as Meta over misinformation and child protection.

Code-Labeled Envelopes Behind Alleged Bribery of the Director General of Customs

Prosecutors in Jakarta's Corruption Court have charged three Blueray Cargo executives with involvement in an import bribery case at the Directorate General of Customs (DJBC), revealing code-labeled envelopes and tracing SGD transfers to multiple Customs officials. The proceedings also outlined payments and coded identifiers, prompting Customs to say they respect the legal process and will not comment while the case proceeds.

Fatal truck accident with broken axle in Kupang claims two lives

Two people were killed and four injured when a seven-passenger dump truck lost control and overturned on a downhill stretch of the Takari-Lelogama road in Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The front axle detached, sending the vehicle out of control; one passenger died at the scene and another died after becoming trapped inside the cab. The crash occurred on 20 May 2026 and is under investigation by Amfoang Selatan Police and Satlantas Polres Kupang.

Veteran Fisheries Dormitory, Traces of Colonial-Era Building in North Jakarta Once Dubbed the 'Devil's House'

An ageing colonial-era building in Cilincing, North Jakarta, now the Veteran Fisheries Dormitory, endures decay as residents carry out repairs themselves. The site retains faint colonial architectural features despite leaks and structural wear, tying it to military housing from the 1960s. The story underscores heritage preservation challenges amid informal upkeep and limited external maintenance.

Golkar Faction Calls on Government to Involve Logistics Drivers in Formulation of Zero ODOL Policy

The Golkar faction of the DPR RI heard concerns from logistics drivers' associations about the government's ODOL policy and urged formal government involvement in shaping a Zero ODOL framework. The drive for policy inclusion follows complaints that drivers bear the legal consequences of decisions largely made by shippers and trucking firms, and that 1 January 2027 is the planned effective date without official coordination.

Strengthening Palm Oil Export Governance Expected to Continue Prioritising Farmers

SPKS cautions that while strengthening export governance and Indonesia’s bargaining position are important, implementation must protect farmers and avoid new pressures on smallholders. It emphasises the need for transparent price formation, farmer involvement in policy oversight, and safeguards for the roughly 60% of national palm oil land managed by smallholders to sustain the industry. The government has proposed strengthening governance through Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) to boost trade oversight and state revenue from the sector.

Indonesian Consulate General in Istanbul: Nine Indonesian Flotilla Volunteers Beaten and Tasers Used by Israeli Army

The Indonesian Consulate General in Istanbul reports that nine Indonesian nationals participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 were physically assaulted while detained by Israel, with some tasered. Efforts are underway to repatriate them at the earliest opportunity, and the government will oversee their smooth return home.

Bring an Umbrella as Jakarta braces for rain Friday afternoon and evening

BMKG forecasts light rain for the DKI Jakarta region on Friday afternoon and evening. The morning to early afternoon is expected to be partly cloudy, with temperatures from 30°C to 33°C. In the late afternoon, rain is likely to be moderate to heavy across most of Jakarta, except for the Thousand Islands Regency, which will be heavily overcast; rainfall will continue into the night with temperatures between 25°C and 33°C and winds of 3-6 km/h.

Meagre aid, hunger returns to haunt Gaza

In Gaza, a 75-year-old man and thousands of others queue for meals as World Central Kitchen cuts distributions amid funding pressure. Since 2023, WCK has spent more than half a billion dollars on Gaza food aid and, at its peak, distributed about a million hot meals daily; UNOCHA warns that funding shortfalls have reduced daily meals from roughly 1.8 million servings in February to about 1 million now. Consequently, one in five families now eats only once a day, with some adults skipping meals so that children can eat.

Aseng Named a Suspect as Attorney General's Office Uncovers PT QSS's Bauxite Mining Modus Operandi

Investigators say PT QSS obtained a mining IUP in West Kalimantan for 2017-2025, but mined outside the licensed area and exported ore using PT QSS documents with involvement of public officials. The suspect, SDT (Sudianto alias Aseng), is the beneficial owner who allegedly controlled PT QSS’s operations. Raids in Jakarta and Pontianak recovered documents and electronic evidence; state losses are being calculated by the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP), and SDT is being held in custody as charges under the new KUHP are pursued.

Yesterday's Politics: Three Pakistani Warships Berthed in Jakarta Ahead of the NU Congress

Indonesia's political news round-up on Thursday covered five items: Pakistani naval vessels berthed in Jakarta for a courtesy call to bolster diplomacy; NU's 35th Congress framed as a milestone for the organisation's role as Indonesia's moral guardian; the Home Affairs Ministry urged regional governments to realise an additional Rp10.6 trillion in TKD for post-disaster recovery. It also noted a special plenary in Bogor conducted with simple school furniture, and GPCI's claim that all GSF volunteers including nine Indonesians have been released by Israel.

Purbaya Waits for Court Ruling on Djaka's Name in Import Bribery Case

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says the government is awaiting the legal process regarding the appearance of Customs Director-General Djaka Budhi Utama's name in a court case involving alleged bribery in import clearance that implicated Blueray Cargo Group's John Field. He stated he will not intervene in court proceedings and would support removal if wrongdoing is proven, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's instructions. Djaka will follow due process, and the ministry has not suspended him as the case is only beginning.

Yesterday's Legal News: Kalbar IUP Suspect and Budi Karya Summoned

On Thursday, the Attorney General's Office named a suspect in the alleged misgovernance of mining permits (IUP) for PT QSS in West Kalimantan (2017–2025). The KPK signalled it may summon former Transport Minister Budi Karya Sumadi after hundreds of millions were seized from his former aide. Other developments include the AG's Office outlining why it questioned former Customs chief Askolani in a CPO export corruption probe, the completion of a Bekasi train crash case file, and BPA's sale of 300 of 308 seized assets at BPA Fair.

Bobby Nasution Rejects OPD Markup Projects: 'Crazy—I'm Not Having It'

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Afif Nasution says he refused to sign several proposals from the provincial government’s OPD that appeared illogical or inflated. He said many parties sought to push through projects by obtaining his approval, and some documents were reportedly on his desk for signing without prior presentation, including a building project valued at Rp484 billion. He pledged to scrutinise all OPD submissions more strictly to prevent budget waste or project manipulation within the provincial government.

Weather Forecast Friday, 22 May 2026: Beware of Heavy Rain in Several Regions of Indonesia

BMKG forecasts heavy to very heavy rain on Friday, 22 May 2026 as cyclonic circulations and convergence zones intensify rainfall potential across Indonesia. The agency warns that heavy rain could trigger hydrometeorological hazards, particularly in the Bangka Belitung Islands, West Kalimantan and Maluku, and urges the public to monitor official channels for updates.

Airbus and Air France Found Guilty of Corporate Manslaughter in 228 Deaths

An appeal court in Paris has found aircraft manufacturer Airbus and airline Air France guilty of corporate manslaughter over the 2009 crash of AF447, which killed 228 people. The court ordered a maximum fine of €225,000 for each company, a largely symbolic penalty that the families welcomed as a recognition of their suffering. The case, previously dismissed in 2023, is likely to face further appeals that could prolong the saga for years.

Putin-Xi Warn of a 'Law of the Jungle' for the World

Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping underscored a stated push for an independent, sovereign foreign policy and a shared stance against a global order described as fragile and prone to a 'law of the jungle'. Moscow and Beijing issued a joint statement emphasising sovereignty and closer strategic partnership, while calling for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict and maintaining a wary stance toward unilateral Western domination.

Indonesian Nationals Suffer Violence During Detention by Israel: Kicked, Beaten, Electroshocked

Nine Indonesian nationals report being subjected to physical abuse during detention by Israeli authorities, including kicking, beating and electric shocks. The Indonesian Consulate General in Istanbul confirmed they are in good health after three to four days of abuse, in a video shared by the Foreign Minister; the nine detainees issued SOS messages on 20 May 2026 and are aboard several vessels including Josef, Ozgurluk, BoraLize, Zapyro and Kasr-1.

Hajj and Umrah Minister Orders Additional Tents for Indonesian Pilgrims in Arafah

Indonesia's Hajj and Umrah Ministry acted swiftly to address a discrepancy between tent capacity records and on-ground space for Indonesian pilgrims in Arafah, following a field inspection led by Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf. It ordered extra tents and strict action against unilateral tent allocations by KBIHU to ensure fair access ahead of the 2026 Hajj, with repairs expected within five days.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Holds Video Call With Nine Indonesians Freed From Detention In Israel

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono spoke via video call with nine Indonesian citizens who had been freed from detention in Israel. They were accompanied by the Indonesian Consulate General in Istanbul, and authorities said they would arrange their repatriation to Indonesia at the earliest opportunity.

Constructing a 240-metre suspension bridge in Aceh Tamiang, TNI AD: Decades of residents lacking access.

Indonesian Army engineers have completed a 240‑metre Garuda Perintis suspension bridge in Aceh Tamiang, the longest of its kind in the country, opening access for thousands previously cut off. The bridge slashes travel time between Sekerak Kiri and Bandar Mahligai from hours to about five minutes and forms part of a broader drive to improve connectivity in Aceh. Korem 011/Lilawangsa says 108 of 252 planned bridges have been completed so far.

No Fixed Salary: High-Rise Window Cleaners Live Project to Project

High-rise window cleaners in Jakarta largely work as freelancers, paid on a project-by-project basis rather than receiving a fixed monthly salary. Income is volatile, with periods of higher earnings during busy times and stretches with little or no income; workers often bear the cost of safety gear themselves, while entry training for rope-access work can take years.

Media reports US Typhon missile system to be redeployed in Japan

The United States plans to redeploy the Typhon missile system and HIMARS to southwestern Japan for joint drills with the Japan Self-Defense Forces (SDF), at Kanoya Air Base in Kagoshima Prefecture, as part of Valiant Shield and Orient Shield between June and September. After the exercises, the equipment will be moved to a U.S. military base in Japan for storage. The Typhon system was previously deployed in September last year in Yamaguchi, drawing criticism from local residents, who had pressured for withdrawal; a local civil group filed a petition with the Ministry of Defence, expressing concerns that such deployments may become routine and noting the withdrawal occurred in November last year.

Questioning the Logic of Closing Study Programmes

Indonesia's move by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology to close several study programmes to reduce graduate–industry mismatch and steer universities to eight strategic sectors is criticised as reducing universities to mere labour suppliers. The piece argues that higher education should instead be an architectural project for civilisation, not a service to industry, and calls for transformative leadership that creates new industries rather than filling existing slots, warning of irreversible damage if future industries are uncertain.

How do missionaries really live and work?

Kristine Hovden describes her UngGlobal team’s Easter trip to Indonesia, where they experienced the climate, culture, and daily life of local communities, including missionaries who blend in as ordinary workers and neighbours. The piece portrays utsendingene as warm, community-minded people who run local businesses and help their neighbours, illustrating that mission is something anyone can do where they are, not just abroad. It also notes that some are called to live overseas, but everyone is invited to show Jesus’ love in their own context.

Commentary: China’s geopolitical weight on display, but will Xi help Trump and Putin end their wars?

China’s growing clout was on display as Xi hosted Putin and then welcomed Trump, but Beijing has shown notable restraint in using that leverage. Russia’s economy depends on trade with China amid sanctions, while Iran’s oil and the Strait of Hormuz shape China’s energy calculus. With Pakistan mediating and energy security guiding policy, Beijing maintains latent influence that could be mobilised, but has shown little appetite to push an immediate settlement in Ukraine or Iran.

Beyond Air India’s losses: Why Indian airlines are struggling more than others, and sounding the alarm

Air India's latest financial year losses exceeded US$2 billion, underscoring mounting pressure on India's aviation sector. Analysts say Indian carriers face higher fuel costs, currency weakness and limited hedging, leaving little room to absorb shocks compared with global peers. The government and industry groups have discussed measures such as price caps on aviation fuel and tax relief to shore up profitability amid geopolitical disruptions and rising import costs.

Trump, Putin and Xi at the Centre of Iran War Scenario Planning

Following the visits of Putin and Trump to Beijing, the piece outlines four major scenarios that could shape Iran-related conflict, energy security, and great-power rivalry. It argues that China and Russia will calibrate their support for Iran while the United States considers escalation, with potential outcomes ranging from tactical de-escalation to a grand bargain that sacrifices Iran as leverage.

Brace for PD3! Russia Holds Massive Land-Sea-Air Nuclear Drill

Russia conducted a three-day, large-scale nuclear drill across multiple regions, involving strategic missiles, the Northern and Pacific fleets, long-range aviation, and storage facilities in Belarus. Footage showed missile-launcher vehicles in forests, nuclear-capable jets taking off, and ships and submarines at sea. President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly warned of Russia's nuclear forces amid the Ukraine conflict, while the Kremlin criticised Lithuania's foreign minister for comments on NATO and Kaliningrad.

Nine Indonesian volunteers with the Global Sumud Flotilla released by Israel, Dave Laksono: Concrete evidence of international solidarity

Nine Indonesian citizens participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla have been released by Israel and are in the process of repatriation. Deputy Speaker of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Dave Laksono, described the development as tangible proof of diplomacy, international solidarity, and humanitarian values, urging continued cross-border cooperation. The release was confirmed by Global Peace Convoy Indonesia (GPCI), with further statements from Indonesian diplomatic networks supporting the effort.

Commentary: Prabowo’s Indonesia is teetering toward a familiar disaster

Bloomberg Opinion argues that President Prabowo Subianto's economic management and authoritarian tilt risk restoring the pre-crisis volatility of the late 1990s, with a falling rupiah and rising borrowing costs. It notes a sharp currency slide, rate hikes, and policy moves such as export controls and a cap on ride-hailing commissions as signals of impulsive governance, while warning of threats to democracy and investor confidence. The piece urges stronger central-bank credibility, inclusive policymaking, and resistance to expanding the military's role in government.

Foreign Minister: Nine Indonesian nationals detained by Israel have arrived in Istanbul

Nine Indonesian citizens detained by the Israeli military have arrived in Istanbul, Türkiye, after being part of the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0. The Indonesian government condemned the detention and torture, and is coordinating repatriation to ensure all WNI return home safely and promptly.

Air France passenger from Ebola-affected country triggers US panic as plane barred from landing

An Air France flight bound for Detroit was diverted and prevented from landing after a passenger from the Democratic Republic of the Congo was found on board amid Ebola-related concerns. The incident occurred as U.S. authorities enforce travel restrictions and health checks for travellers from Ebola-affected regions. The CDC and DHS have previously announced a 30-day travel ban for non-U.S. citizens from Congo, South Sudan and Uganda, with extra screening at designated airports.

Trump says there will be no escalation against Cuba after US charges against Raul Castro.

President Donald Trump said there would be no escalation against Cuba after US prosecutors indicted Raul Castro, even as the USS Nimitz carrier strike group arrived in the Caribbean. The indictment accuses Castro of ordering the 1996 downing of two planes operated by the exile group Brothers to the Rescue, prompting questions about potential US intervention. Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel condemned the charges as political manoeuvring, while Washington tightened sanctions in the wake of the Maduro case.

Is it raining in Bali today? Check the BMKG weather forecast for 22 May 2026

BMKG forecasts Bali's weather today as generally cloudy with a temperature range of 21-33°C and humidity of 60-95%. Across districts, some areas may experience light rain while others remain partly cloudy or cloudy, guiding daily plans.

Tahura Speaks Out on Viral Tiger Sighting in Cangar Forest Near Batu

Officials from Tahura Raden Soerjo say they have not received any information about the alleged tiger sighting in the Cangar forest and that the claim remains unverified. A TikTok video by @Wong Mojokerto circulated claiming a tiger was seen in the area, but Tahura staff say they have not encountered any tiger. The piece cautions about viral posts and emphasises verification before confirmation.

North Aceh Regent Urges BNPB to Accelerate Renovation of Flood Victims' Homes

North Aceh Regent Ismail A Jalil has urged BNPB to speed up rehabilitation and reconstruction assistance for flood victims’ homes. The Aceh Utara government has proposed 63,238 houses to Satgas PRR, with a three-stage breakdown and a large portion awaiting validation for Phase IV to ensure all affected residents receive help.

Minister of Transport confirms Kertajati land is sufficient for Hercules aircraft MRO

The Indonesian Minister of Transport, Dudy Purwagandhi, says the land at Kertajati airport in Majalengka, West Java, is adequate to host a regional maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) hub for C-130/Hercules aircraft, part of a government push to develop Kertajati as an Asia‑region MRO centre. The plan includes a helicopter MRO facility by GMF Aero Asia and potential involvement of Lockheed Martin subject to defence procurement, with cross‑ministerial coordination planned with the Ministry of Defence.

Motorbike Thief Who Pointed a Pistol at Duren Sawit Hospital Arrested

Four suspects involved in violent theft were arrested by the Metro Jaya Regional Police's Ditreskrimum, including a man who pointed a pistol at a hospital in Duren Sawit. The group, believed to have operated across Duren Sawit, Rawamangun, Kebon Jeruk and Bekasi, allegedly targeted patients' motorcycles; when arrested they fired on officers, prompting a proportionate response. One suspect had previously threatened a hospital security guard at RSIA in Duren Sawit.

KNKT: Argo Bromo Anggrek train briefly braked 1.3 kilometres before Bekasi Timur incident

The KNKT reported that the Argo Bromo Anggrek locomotive braked about 1.3 kilometres before colliding with a KRL commuter train at Bekasi Timur on 27 April 2026, after receiving information of a front-line collision. Information was relayed by voice from the control centre, limiting on-site understanding, and investigations continue. The Transport Minister said results are awaited, with a final conclusion expected in two to three months.

Transport Minister confirms airline ticket price cap will be discussed soon amid geopolitical impact

Indonesia’s Ministry of Transport will discuss adjustments to the airline ticket upper price cap (TBA) with airlines and stakeholders as it responds to geopolitical tensions driving increases in aviation fuel costs. In the short term, the government will first adjust the fuel surcharge to reflect rising avtur prices, with potential further TBA changes to be considered in a measured, affordable manner.

This Verse Destroys the Belief of Humans Who Worship Money

The article revisits Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:36), which declares that wealth cannot redeem disbelievers on the Day of Judgment. It argues that wealth, power and status fail to shield anyone from divine punishment, and that the values of the world will collapse at the end of time. The piece cautions readers against letting money dominate life, a warning echoed by Islamic scholars.

Number of Victims in Kediri Molestation Case Involving Qur'an Tutor Climbs to 12 Children

Police in Kediri say the number of underage victims in a case involving a Qur'an tutor has risen to 12, following a data collection with village authorities and the victims. The investigation began after a parent reported the alleged abuse, and police urge others who may be victims to come forward to the Kediri Police's PPA Unit.

Ala Ayuning Dewasa 22 May 2026 According to the Balinese Calendar

On Friday 22 May 2026, Sukra Wage Wariga, the Balinese calendar marks Ala ayuning dewasa as auspicious for various activities. The article, citing kalenderbali.org, lists which days are good or not for rituals, construction, farming and business, reflecting Balinese Hindu practices around daily auspiciousness.

Experiential Retail Becomes a Global Brand Strategy to Win Indonesia's Urban Consumers

Global luxury and lifestyle brands are increasingly pursuing experiential retail in Indonesia, with Victorinox launching an 'Experience Hub' pop-up in Kota Kasablanka to offer immersive storytelling and interactive product demos. The piece also notes a broader policy backdrop, including PT DSI Persero's plan to assume full export functions from January 2027.

Local Brand Strengthens Southeast Asia's Horeca Market Through Plant-Based Trend

Plant-based consumer trends are increasingly shaping Southeast Asia's Horeca sector, with Ellenka Professional expanding across the region through FHA Singapore 2026 and FHTB Bali 2026. The company highlights coconut-based plant-based milks and other Horeka solutions, sponsors the Barista Female Creation 2026, and emphasises the need for technical and marketing support to partners as the market grows and competition intensifies.

Foreign tourists to Japan fall in April amid several factors

Foreign tourists to Japan fell 5.5 per cent year on year in April to 3.69 million, the first decline since January, amid flight suspensions linked to Middle East conflicts and a diplomatic rift with China. Chinese visitors dropped 56.8 per cent to 330,700 and Middle Eastern visitors fell 21.4 per cent to 22,300, with travel advisories and disruptions weighing on arrivals. Nevertheless, South Korea led with 878,600 visitors (up 21.7%), and total arrivals from nine markets reached a record high for April.

Beware Hantavirus: Immune Strength and Environmental Hygiene Are Key

Indonesia has recorded 23 hantavirus cases across nine provinces from 2023 to May 2026, with Jakarta reporting the highest numbers. While most hantaviruses are not human-to-human transmissible, the Seoul virus can spread via infected rat droppings; authorities urge strengthened immunity and rigorous environmental hygiene to prevent infection. The article also notes government and private sector guidance on lifestyle, supplements, and cleaning practices, and mentions heightened health surveillance at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport following reports of infections on a cruise ship.

Atopic Dermatitis May Disrupt Children's Sleep and Family Activities

Atopic dermatitis in children is highlighted as a chronic condition that can affect sleep and family life. The piece covers prevalence, the importance of skin barrier and microbiome, and educational efforts by Mustela, including the Stelatopia line and a medical advisory board, with input from dermatologists and paediatricians.

Study: Parental interference triggers the fraying of children's friendships

A new study presented by Neuroscience News and published in Developmental Psychology/Child Development finds that parental disapproval of a child's friend can increase the likelihood of that friendship ending and reduce its quality over time. Using 394 Lithuanian pupils aged 9-14 observed over three semesters, the findings suggest forbidding friendships is not a long-term solution and underscore the importance of a warm, supportive home environment; effects may vary with age and excessive parental involvement can strain the parent-child relationship.

Health and Beauty Retail Moves Closer to Urban Settlements

Watsons Indonesia opened Watsons Apotek Bintaro Sektor 9, the 230th Watsons store nationwide and the fifth in the Bintaro area, as part of a push to bring health and beauty services closer to daily urban life. The group emphasises the 'Watsons Apotek Street' community pharmacy concept, offering health consultations, basic checks, and prescriptions, integrating retail with primary care. The expansion, together with partnerships with L’Oréal, Kalbe, and other brands, signals a shift towards omnichannel and community engagement in Indonesia’s health and beauty retail sector.

Alleged Drug-Using Vape: Civil Servant in North Sumatra Provincial Government Arrested by Police

Police in Medan have arrested a civil servant from the North Sumatra provincial government after allegedly using a vape containing the drug etomidate, concealed inside a loaf of bread. The 25-year-old suspect, identified as FIS from Batubara, was seized with one etomidate-containing vape at his boarding house in Babura, Medan. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether he was merely a user or part of a wider network; authorities are pursuing other links.

One Person Killed in a Carok Duel Between Neighbours in Lumajang

Two men clashed in a road dispute that escalated into a fatal carok duel in Lumajang. Abdul Karim died from a serious head wound, while his opponent, Wasil, sustained serious abdominal injuries and is undergoing intensive care at a hospital. Police said the confrontation began after a minor dispute on the road, with Karim returning home to fetch a celurit, a traditional Indonesian sickle knife, before the deadly duel.

Mixed fortunes for Danantara's one-stop export gateway to coal-listed companies

Indonesia plans to centralise commodity exports via a Danantara one-stop gateway, with coal among the initial commodities affected. From 1 June 2026, exporters must transfer export-import contracts with foreign buyers to a state-owned enterprise, with PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia handling the exports. The policy is expected to affect issuers with overseas exposure and could influence investor sentiment in the capital market.

Govt tightens rice oversight to safeguard food security

The Indonesian government, led by President Prabowo, is tightening oversight of the rice sector to curb irregularities and protect consumers, with fortified rice testing and stricter distribution checks. Bulog's rice reserves total 5.3 million tonnes as of mid-May 2026, and national output (Jan–May) is projected at 16.8 million tonnes against 12.8 million tonnes of consumption, yielding a surplus of about four million tonnes. Authorities also fixed a minimum dry unhusked rice purchase price at Rp6,500 per kilogram, while the farmgate price hovered around Rp6,947, up 2.6% month-on-month, reflecting efforts to stabilise prices and support farmers.

Fast-Growing F&B Businesses Face Biggest Challenges During Expansion

Indonesia’s food and beverage and retail sectors are riding a growth wave, with Bank Indonesia data showing retail sales up 6.5% year-on-year to March 2026 and the food and beverage category rising 8.5% for eight consecutive months into late last year. Yet outlet expansion is not automatically profitable, as fragmented transaction recording, non-synchronised stock data, and delayed financial reconciliation reveal an ‘expansion paradox’, prompting a shift toward end-to-end digitalisation and integrated systems such as Mekari POS.

Indonesia–China Strengthen Twin Parks, Targeting Investment and AI

Indonesia and China advance the Two Countries, Twin Parks initiative, expanding from industrial zones to include supply-chain integration, investment and cross-border digital economy. The Fuzhou forum launched the Strategic Cooperation Platform with government backing and 11 joint projects, signalling deeper bilateral cooperation and potential acceleration of investment and industrial modernisation in Indonesia.

Jakarta Provincial Government Clears Illegal Parking in Blok M; 13 Parking Attendants Detained

Jakarta's DKI Provincial Government conducted a coordinated crackdown on illegal parking in Blok M, South Jakarta, detaining 13 illegal parking attendants. The operation, led by the head of the South Jakarta Transportation Sub-Department, involved multiple agencies and aimed to restore public order and curb nuisance parking, while offering rehabilitative guidance to violators.

High-Tech MRI Helps Detect Stroke and Cancer More Precisely

AI-powered MRI technology is being deployed to improve early detection of stroke, cancer, and heart disease, with Bethsaida Hospital and GE HealthCare Indonesia highlighting faster scans and sharper images. The rollout emphasises patient comfort and broader clinical use, though access remains uneven across eastern Indonesia.

Indonesia, Azerbaijan seek stronger human resource cooperation

Indonesia and Azerbaijan are pursuing deeper human resources cooperation under a government MoU, targeting social security, vocational education and training, skill development, labour-market improvements and migrant workers’ protections. The move aims to boost inclusive growth, strengthen institutional capacity and economic resilience, while highlighting bilateral ties in investment, digital transformation and tourism.

Gus Lilur: The 35th Muktamar as NU's Anchor to Remain Indonesia's Moral Guardian

Gus Lilur argues that the 35th Muktamar is a foundational moment for Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) to remain Indonesia's moral guardian, not merely a forum for electing leaders. The PBNU emphasises that the congress should not be exploited as a stepping stone for the 2029 General Elections, reflecting NU's historic role in public life.

The Health & Beauty Retail Competition Shifts Towards a Loyalty Ecosystem and Digital Experience

The health and beauty retail sector is moving from price wars and store expansion to building customer loyalty through integrated omnichannel experiences. Watsons Indonesia is leading this shift with its '185 Years of Smiles' campaign, linking physical stores with digital platforms to enhance engagement and long-term customer relationships.

Fintech and Healthtech Collaboration Opens Access to Financing for Pregnancy Programs

Fintech and healthtech collaboration enables flexible financing for fertility and reproductive health services through Indodana PayLater in partnership with Ovy Health. The alliance aims to ease upfront costs for fertility procedures and reproductive health, with promotional offers running until 31 May 2026 and leadership from Indodana Finance and Ovy Health emphasising the role of accessible financing in expanding healthcare access.

Indonesian nationals taking part in Gaza flotilla undergo examinations in Türkiye before returning home

Nine Indonesian citizens who participated in the Gaza flotilla and were released from Israeli detention will undergo testimonies, visa processing and health checks in Türkiye as part of pending procedures before they can repatriate. Officials said they will be sent home once these procedures are complete, amid reports of injuries during detention.

Minister of Transport: 172 illegal level crossings closed to boost rail safety

Indonesia's Minister of Transport announced that the government, alongside PT Kereta Api Indonesia and other stakeholders, has begun closing 172 illegal level crossings to improve rail safety. The initiative includes safety upgrades at priority crossings, a budget of around Rp800 billion, and the aim to reduce unmanned crossings that have higher accident risks.

Viral! A Man Allegedly Harasses an Ojol Driver, Leaving a Liquid Stain on the Driver's Jacket

An ojol driver in Balikpapan was allegedly harassed by a passenger, resulting in a liquid staining the driver's jacket. The incident has sparked widespread online reaction and renewed calls for greater protection of online transport workers, but no official identity of the suspect or legal steps have been released.

Metro Jaya Police Begal-Hunting Team Arrests 4 Suspects, 2 of Them Shot

The Metro Jaya Police say four suspected armed robbers were arrested after a spree that police say included 190 incidents since December 2025 to May 2026; two suspects were shot during operations involving firearms, while police continue to hunt two more on the wanted list. Police say actions were guided by Police Regulation, KUHAP and KUHP to ensure human rights are respected.

Prabowo Appoints Luke Thomas Mahony to Lead Danantara Sumberdaya

President Prabowo Subianto has formally appointed Luke Thomas Mahony to head PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) to strengthen governance of the national natural resource export sector. The move follows a limited meeting at the State Palace and aims to curb revenue leakage by establishing a single export body, with government-led consultations planned with business groups and commodity associations.

Shop at Satpas SIM in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, burns down

A small shop near the Satpas SIM facility in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, caught fire on Thursday night, spreading to the adjacent police post. Firefighters contained the blaze by 23:18 WIB, deploying seven appliances with 35 personnel; there were no casualties and the area was later brought back to a safe condition.

Profile of Itamar Ben-Gvir: A Controversial Figure at the Heart of Israel's Government

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, once seen as a fringe far-right provocateur, has become an unavoidable figure in Israeli politics. His provocative actions — from celebrating death-penalty legislation for Palestinians to visiting high-tension sites and releasing controversial videos — have drawn swift international condemnation and underscored his influence on security policy and the country’s political trajectory.

Deputy Public Works Minister pushes for faster land acquisition to improve railway level crossings

Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti urged rapid land acquisition to support safer handling of railway level crossings. She outlined three actions—inventorying land needs, simplifying regulations, and coordinating across ministries and KAI—to accelerate projects, noting thousands of crossings nationwide and a multi-trillion rupiah budget need; progress is tied to presidential directives following a Bekasi Timur accident.

Gus Falah: Legalisation of small-scale mining an effort by the state to provide legal certainty

Gus Falah, head of MN-KAHMI's Environment Sector, argues that legalising small-scale mining is essential to provide legal certainty and curb illegal mining, citing potential state losses of about Rp300 trillion annually. The national dialogue forum on People's Mining and Environmental Issues is seen as a milestone for establishing a just, legal, and environmentally sustainable governance framework.

Starbucks partners with Yunnan Agricultural University to develop the coffee industry

Starbucks China and Yunnan Agricultural University have signed an industry-university collaboration to combine academic research with industrial resources, aiming to train talent and boost China's coffee sector. The agreement includes an exclusive Starbucks-themed programme with internships and mentorship, leveraging YAU's Coffee Science and Engineering capabilities. Yunnan, a major coffee producer, reported strong growth and significant exports, underscoring the potential for international expansion.

A portrait of the Djuttitsa tea plantation in the West Region of Cameroon

In the West Region of Cameroon, the Djuttitsa tea plantation thrives as the rainy season arrives. Workers pick tea leaves that are sent to a factory to be processed into bagged tea. Established in 1985, the 1,660-hectare estate operates its own factory on site, and May 21 is observed as International Tea Day.

Foshan Polytechnic signs collaboration with three Indonesian universities

Foshan Polytechnic has begun educational collaborations with three Indonesian universities—Universitas Padjadjaran, Hasanuddin University, and Universitas Bakrie—covering student and staff exchanges, joint research, and curriculum development in smart manufacturing and green energy, with additional focus on e-commerce through Universitas Bakrie. The Unhas partnership involves a three‑way alliance with Guangdong Brunp Recycling Technology for applied research and industry-ready curricula. These agreements reflect growing China–Indonesia ties in vocational education, building on prior collaborations with IPB's Vocational School and STMI.

OJK and AAUI Banjarmasin conduct insurance-literacy education for economics teachers

The South Kalimantan branch of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the General Insurance Association of Indonesia (AAUI) in Banjarmasin conducted an insurance literacy education session for dozens of economics teachers. The programme aims to empower teachers to act as agents of change by informing students and the surrounding community about the importance of general insurance to protect assets, ensuring security in case of unforeseen events.

The Story of a Diasporic Chinese Community Building a Premier Grape Industry in Yunnan

In Liujiawan, a diaspora Chinese community in Binchuan, Yunnan, grape growers have built a thriving industry, exporting the Black Summer grape variety to ASEAN and Russia. Through collective irrigation, soil improvements, and modern logistics, the community has expanded to over 553 hectares, with cold storage and cross-border e-commerce enabling rapid access to markets and turning eco-tourism into a livelihood boost.

Arrived in Istanbul, 9 Indonesian Flotilla Volunteers Video Call With Foreign Minister

Nine Indonesian nationals affiliated with the Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 have arrived in Istanbul and held a video call with Foreign Minister Sugiono. The government says it will oversee their repatriation to Indonesia, ensuring they return safely and promptly. Earlier reports noted 422 GSF activists were flown from southern Israel, with first arrivals seen at Istanbul's VIP terminal as supporters gathered carrying Palestinian flags.

West Kalimantan Bauxite Mining Boss Charged as Suspect, AGO Uncovers Alleged IUP Manipulation and Exports

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has named Sudianto alias Aseng, a Kalimantan Barat bauxite mining entrepreneur and beneficial owner of PT Quality Sukses Sejahtera (QSS), as a suspect in a case involving alleged abuse of Mining Business Permit management for 2017-2025. Investigations indicate PT QSS mined bauxite outside its IUP area and exported the ore, with Sudianto allegedly coordinating the activities and colluding with public officials; the state losses are being quantified with the help of BPKP, and multiple locations have been searched. The case highlights ongoing anti-corruption investigations into mining regulation and enforcement.

Metro Jaya Police arrest four more mugging suspects in the Jakarta area

Four more suspects linked to street robberies in Jakarta have been arrested by the Metro Jaya Police's Begal Hunting Team. Police said two suspects used firearms, injuring victims who required hospital treatment. By the fourth day of operations, the team had captured 20 suspects in total.

Menhaj emphasises the importance of thorough preparation to face the Armuzna phase

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has stressed the need for thorough preparation ahead of the Armuzna phase, as millions of pilgrims from around the world gather in Mecca. The Saudi Hajj Implementing Officers have planned strict movement schedules to prevent crowding, with measures including tanazul and murur schemes, and an emphasis on physical and mental readiness and ready-to-eat meals to ensure a safe, orderly and devout pilgrimage.

Three Regencies in North Sumatra Hit by Floods

Three regencies in North Sumatra—Tapanuli Utara, Pakpak Bharat and Tapanuli Tengah—were hit by floods on Wednesday, 20 May. The floods caused displacement and damage across the three areas, with 81 people fleeing in Tapanuli Utara and one household evacuated in Pakpak Bharat; Tapanuli Tengah was affected but figures were not disclosed. There were no reported injuries or fatalities, and local authorities continued disaster response coordination.

Traveller-Friendly Mosque in Aceh Facilitates Distribution of Sacrificial Animals

In Aceh, the Masjid Taqwa Lampoih Saka, known as a traveller-friendly stop, has begun distributing qurban animals for Eid al-Adha 1447H. The committee has already received seven cows and three goats, with plans to slaughter on the first day after Eid prayers and distribute the meat to worshippers and local residents; donors are invited to contribute.

From the Spice Lands to a Superpower Nation

The article reflects on Indonesia’s long economic paradox and colonial history, highlighting how Nusantara’s spice trade powered global commerce and how a 2026 presidential speech highlighted the Netherlands’ historical GDP per capita dominance. It argues that understanding this history sheds light on contemporary wealth and global power dynamics.

ESDM tests samples of waste-derived diesel from 12 locations

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is sampling diesel fuel produced from waste from 12 sites under a pyrolysis scheme, with Cetane Number (CN) tests to verify CN. Testing will determine CN values per site and determine eligibility under the KBLI waste-to-energy category, with six locations targeted for the project.

Israeli Media Reveals Why Al-Qassam's Top Commander Nicknamed 'the Phantom' Was Killed

The Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth says a 'fatal mistake' by Izzuddin Al-Haddad enabled his tracing and killing by an Israeli air strike after months of intensive pursuit. The report, cited by Al Jazeera, states that Al-Haddad's decision to return to a secret family apartment became a turning point that allowed the Israel Air Force to launch the operation, which also ended the career of a key planner of the 7 October attack. The piece portrays Al-Haddad as a 'phantom' difficult to track, with a Major in the Israeli Operations Brigade indicating that Israeli forces had come close to killing him on several occasions.

Kursi Firaun Milik Koruptor Asabri Laku Rp80 Juta, Perhiasan Sandra Dewi Diserbu

Jakarta, VIVA – Kursi bergaya Firaun berlapis warna emas milik terpidana kasus Asabri, Jimmy Sutopo, menjadi salah satu barang paling menyita perhatian dalam gelaran BPA Fair 2026 yang digelar Badan Pemulihan Aset (BPA) Kejaksaan Agung RI. Kursi mewah bernama Firaun Gold “King Tutankhamen’s Egyptian Throne Chair Replica” itu akhirnya laku terjual pada hari terakhir pelelangan, Kamis, 21 Mei 2026, dengan nilai fantastis mencapai Rp80 juta.

Ex-Director-General of Water Resources at the Ministry of Public Works Named a Suspect in Rp2 Billion Bribe Case Involving Luxury Cars

Jakarta's High Prosecutor's Office has named Dwi Purwantoro, the former Director-General of Water Resources at the Ministry of Public Works, as a suspect in a case of alleged corruption involving extortion and/or bribes and/or gratification and/or abuse of power tied to several Ditjen SDA projects. Investigators have also named RS and AS, senior officials in charge of commitments, in relation to alleged corruption in the routine expenditure budget at the Secretariat of the Ditjen SDA. The inquiry has seized two luxury cars and cash in US dollars, and authorities say further asset tracing and investigations are ongoing; the suspects are being detained for 20 days starting 21 May 2026.

Khutbah Arafah 2026 Broadcast in 34 Languages, Delivered by Sheikh Hudhaify

The 2026 Arafah Khutbah will be delivered by Sheikh Ali bin Abdul Rahman Hudhaify from the Namirah Mosque on 26 May 2026 and will be available in 34 languages. The public translation programme, completed last year by the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, aims to share Islam’s message of tolerance with Muslims and non-Muslims worldwide, aided by QR codes for instant text and audio access.

Skilled Trades Salaries Now Overtake Office Workers, Some Hit Rp1.8 Billion!

Randstad's latest data show skilled trades salaries rising sharply, with US wages up to 30% since 2022 and notable increases across the Netherlands, Germany and the UK. The growth is driven in part by data-centre construction and AI infrastructure, underscoring that digital transformation still requires human labour. Randstad's CEO says the era of going to university and into an office job for a lucrative career may be over, as AI cannot build its own data centres.

PB ORADO officially joins KONI Pusat

PB ORADO has officially become a member of KONI Pusat following decisions at the National Work Meeting (Rakernas) and Extraordinary National Sports Conference (Musornaslub) KONI 2026 in Jakarta. Officials said ORADO meets the organisational and coaching prerequisites to join KONI Pusat, signalling a new phase for domino as a national sport with a structured development and broader competition.

Three TNI Soldiers Who Killed Bank Branch Manager Seek Acquittal, Quoting Prophet Muhammad SAW

Three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers accused in the kidnapping and murder of a bank branch manager asked for acquittal during a military court session in Jakarta. Their defence argued the charges were not proven beyond reasonable doubt, invoking the principle in dubio pro reo and citing sayings of Prophet Muhammad SAW about avoiding punishment in doubt. The defence also requested the court dismiss the indictment and to have the state bear the costs.