Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 May 2026

Showing 501-936 of 936 articles

Economist: Single-channel export policy could bolster government revenue

The Indonesian government's new policy requiring strategic commodity exports through state-owned enterprise DSI aims to combat misinvoicing and enhance revenue. Economist Fakhrul Fulvian highlights the importance of clear communication to reassure compliant businesses and ensure market understanding, stressing that effective implementation could strengthen trade governance and fiscal position.

Property Developers Raise Alarm Over Soaring Building Material Prices

Property developers are facing mounting pressures as Middle East conflicts drive up construction material costs, potentially leading to higher property prices and mortgage rates. Bank Indonesia's rate hikes further strain the sector, with non-subsidised home sales becoming more challenging. Industry leaders warn that rising costs and weak consumer purchasing power create a difficult environment for both developers and buyers.

3 Months of Iran Conflict: Trump's Diplomacy Forces Allies to Use Backdoor Channels

In the wake of Trump's nuclear threats against Iran, European allies have grown increasingly concerned over the US diplomatic system's collapse, with vacant ambassador posts and chaotic decision-making. Nations are bypassing formal channels to communicate with Trump's inner circle, while expertise in nuclear negotiations is eroding, risking further escalation in global conflicts.

Pakistan PM welcomes Trump's efforts to broker peace with Iran

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has welcomed US President Donald Trump's diplomatic efforts to broker peace with Iran following telephone talks with several Middle Eastern leaders. He described the discussions as highly beneficial and productive, providing an opportunity to exchange views on achieving lasting regional peace. Sharif also stated Pakistan would continue its peace efforts and hopes to host the next round of talks between Washington and Tehran.

BMKG Hang Nadim Warn of Thunderstorm and Sudden Weather Changes in Batam

The BMKG Hang Nadim station has warned of potential thunderstorms and sudden weather shifts in Batam and the Riau Islands, impacting transport and public safety. Authorities advise caution for air and sea travel due to possible disruptions from heavy rain and lightning.

Shooting near White House leaves one suspect dead

US Secret Service agents shot and killed a suspect near the White House on Saturday after he attempted to breach security and fire at officers, triggering an immediate lockdown. A civilian was critically injured in the incident, which occurred just outside the presidential complex. Authorities believe the suspect, who later died in hospital, was experiencing emotional distress.

Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims to Depart for Arafah Tomorrow Ahead of Peak Rituals

Indonesian Hajj pilgrims will begin moving to Arafah on 25 May 2026 for the critical phase of the Hajj. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged strict adherence to schedules and group coordination to ensure safety, particularly for vulnerable pilgrims. Maria Assegaf stressed that collective responsibility is key during the crowded Armuzna phase.

BRIN identifies new spiny eggplant species from Kalimantan

A new spiny eggplant species, Solanum kalimantanense, has been discovered in Kalimantan by BRIN researchers. Locally known as 'terong asam' or 'terong dayak', it is used as food and traditional cancer treatment, with potential vulnerability due to limited population. The findings were published in Taprobanica journal.

Bareskrim Polri Investigates Cause of Sumatra Blackout

The National Police's Special Crimes Unit is investigating the cause of Sumatra's recent blackout, with preliminary results showing no signs of intentional human interference. The outage, which began on 22 May due to severe weather affecting transmission infrastructure, caused cascading failures across the grid. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has ordered PLN to strengthen transmission systems and prepare backup generation for faster recovery.

PPIT: Indonesia and China Need to Strengthen Vocational Education Cooperation for Industry

Indonesia and China must enhance vocational education collaboration to meet industrial demands and drive economic growth, according to PPIT chairman Al Busyra Basnur. The partnership aims to reduce unemployment, boost productivity, and strengthen global competitiveness through joint initiatives including student exchanges and training programs for 10,000 Indonesian talents.

Iran says Tehran and Washington finalise MoU to end war

Iran and the US are finalising a Memorandum of Understanding to end hostilities, with Pakistan acting as mediator. The agreement aims to halt US maritime operations and release frozen Iranian assets, though nuclear discussions are not part of current talks. A final agreement is expected within 30 to 60 days after signing.

PHE Partners with Elnusa and Mitra Global as 2026 Oil and Gas Tender Enters Strategic Phase

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) has signed 62 Confidentiality Agreements with 24 strategic partners for its 2026 upstream oil and gas tender, signalling a more competitive investment climate following Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Regulation No. 14/2025. Government and company officials emphasise transparency and professionalism in the process to boost production and attract innovative technology and efficient business models.

Serpong-Bogor via Parung Toll Road: Technical Planning Completed This Year

The Ministry of Public Works has accelerated technical planning for the Serpong-Bogor via Parung toll road, now 80% complete, targeting completion this year. The Rp12.35 trillion KPBU project aims to reduce Bogor-Tangerang travel time to 45 minutes and stimulate economic growth along the corridor. Additional developments include corruption investigations and infrastructure initiatives across Indonesia.

PT SMI Provides Rp125 Billion Credit Facility for Greenroof Energy Solar Projects

SMI has extended a Rp125 billion credit facility to PT Greenroof Energy to accelerate Indonesia's renewable energy transition and strengthen green financing. The funding will refinance existing solar power projects and support GREI's regional expansion plans, while reinforcing SMI's role as the Energy Transition Mechanism Country Platform Manager.

Is the US-Iran War Really About to End Soon? 8 Questions Answered

Diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran have reached a critical juncture, with President Trump claiming a deal is nearly finalised. Iran confirms a mediated agreement via Pakistan but awaits formal US response, raising hopes of de-escalation after years of tension.

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah urges pilgrims to prepare stamina for Mina-Jamarat walking route

The Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah has urged Indonesian pilgrims to build physical stamina and rest adequately ahead of the Hajj pilgrimage, given the extensive walking required between Mina and Jamarat. Depending on the route chosen (Nafar Awal or Tsani), pilgrims may cover 21 or 28 kilometres in total. He assured support from uniformed officers and stressed the importance of staying calm and maintaining health during the rituals.

All Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Arrive in Mecca, Ready for Armuzna Rituals

All Indonesian Hajj pilgrims have arrived in Mecca and are preparing for the critical Armuzna phase of the pilgrimage. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to prioritise physical readiness, carry essential items including personal medications, and avoid unnecessary baggage to ensure smooth movement during the rituals.

PHE Optimistic Indonesia-South Korea CCS Project to Open New Investment Opportunities

PHE and its international partners have signed a joint study agreement to develop a cross-border carbon capture and storage project between Indonesia and South Korea, potentially attracting up to $600 million in investment and creating 2,000 construction jobs per million tonnes of CO2 storage capacity annually. The initiative aims to accelerate regional CCS ecosystem development, support global decarbonisation goals, and solidify Indonesia's role as a key CCS hub in the Asia-Pacific.

Senator Dayat El Advocates Road Repairs and #SaveMeratus in DPD RI Plenary Session

Senator Dayat El has raised critical regional issues from South Kalimantan during the DPD RI plenary session, including road infrastructure repairs, environmental conservation of the Meratus Forest, and various socio-economic concerns. He emphasised the need for concrete government action to address these matters for equitable development and welfare. The senator highlighted specific projects like dam constructions and administrative reforms to tackle flooding, agricultural support, and education funding.

Tokuryu: Japan's New Gang Challenging Yakuza Dominance

Tokuryu, Japan's emerging flexible criminal group, is causing a surge in fraud and robberies, costing over $474 million in the first half of 2024 alone. Police are forming task forces to combat the group, which recruits vulnerable youth through online ads targeting elderly victims. Meanwhile, traditional Yakuza groups are declining due to strict laws, with some cooperation emerging between the two organisations.

BGN uncovers fraud in MBG kitchen point sales in Batam as documents seized

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and Batam police are investigating a fraud case involving the illegal sale of MBG kitchen locations. BGN has warned the public that these service points cannot be sold and urged victims to report to authorities, stressing the importance of verifying information through official channels to avoid further scams.

Pertamina refutes claims of ban on specific vehicles using Pertalite from June 1, 2026

Pertamina has denied widespread social media claims suggesting a ban on specific vehicle brands using its Pertalite fuel from June 1, 2026. The state-owned company clarified there are no government or regulatory directives imposing such restrictions, and the Subsidi Tepat program is part of efforts to improve subsidy targeting, not related to the viral misinformation. It urged the public to verify information via official channels before sharing.

11 arrested in Central Jakarta following discovery of weapons and illegal drugs

Police in Central Jakarta arrested 11 individuals during a dawn operation targeting weapons, drugs, and street crime. Authorities seized tramadol tablets, celurit weapons, and unregistered motorcycles, reinforcing efforts to maintain public safety during high-risk hours.

China completes 537-day deep-sea material corrosion test

China's State Shipbuilding Corporation has completed a 537-day deep-sea material corrosion test at 10,000 metres, setting a new duration record. The test, conducted under extreme conditions, has yielded rare data and developed critical systems for deep-sea operations, supporting future exploration, mining, and oil and gas projects.

Brian stresses strengthening multidisciplinary research to tackle global challenges

Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology Brian Yuliarto has stressed the importance of multidisciplinary research in tackling global challenges including AI, climate change, and economic shifts. He emphasised universities' role in developing leaders who can bridge science, policy, and inclusive growth, with the ministry committed to strengthening cross-disciplinary collaboration and international academic networks to drive innovation for Indonesia and the world.

George Russell Secures Pole Position at 2026 Canadian Grand Prix, Edges Out Kimi Antonelli

PT DSI Persero will assume full export responsibilities from January 2027, while Mercedes driver George Russell claimed pole position for the Canadian Grand Prix, narrowly defeating teammate Kimi Antonelli. The race, affected by cold temperatures and potential rain, saw Mercedes dominate the front row with McLaren securing third and fourth places.

China enhances Shenzhou-23 spacecraft window protection against space debris risks

China has strengthened window protection on its Shenzhou-23 spacecraft following space debris impacts on previous missions. The recent emergency launch and backup strategy validation demonstrate effective crisis management for long-term space operations, offering a template for international space agencies.

Education Minister applauds private schools for delivering quality education

Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti praised private schools for their role in enhancing education quality and strengthening Indonesia's national education ecosystem, acknowledging the diverse challenges across schools. He emphasised collaboration between government and private institutions to expand access and improve standards, stressing that education must develop students' character, nationalism, and commitment to national contribution beyond academic skills.

Russia Launches Major Attack on Ukraine Using Oreshnik Missile

Russia launched a major missile and drone assault on Kyiv, killing four and injuring dozens, employing the advanced hypersonic Oreshnik missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads. Ukrainian authorities reported extensive damage to infrastructure and residential areas, with residents ordered to seek shelter. The attack follows Putin's threat to retaliate against Ukrainian strikes in occupied territories, intensifying regional hostilities.

Family Reveals Identity of Bogor Woman's Killer: Victim's Old School Friend

The family of a murdered woman in Bogor has confirmed the suspect is an old school friend, not a romantic partner, and is demanding the harshest possible punishment, including the death penalty. They emphasise the victim was innocent and that taking a life is an unforgivable violation of divine rights.

Pati Bride to Marry Man Who Took Her Away

A mediation between families in Pati has resulted in a woman marrying the man who took her away after her original fiancé called off the wedding. Police confirmed the arrangement following discussions between the involved parties.

Two Austrian tourists killed in Labuan Bajo suspension bridge accident

Two Austrian tourists died after falling from a damaged suspension bridge at Cunca Wulang Waterfall in East Nusa Tenggara on 24 May 2026. The incident raises concerns over the safety of tourist infrastructure managed by local authorities. The victims, believed to be a married couple, were evacuated to a regional hospital as investigations continue.

Yogyakarta quake survivors' market spurs recovery

The Survivors’ Market in Yogyakarta showcased local micro, small and medium enterprises, highlighting resilience and economic recovery two decades after the earthquake. Government officials emphasised cooperation and community solidarity in rebuilding, with the initiative serving as a symbol of sustainable growth. The event underscored the importance of cross-sector collaboration in strengthening disaster-affected communities' economic capacity.

Support for 2,000 Gaza Orphans Continues Through Virtual Guardian Meetings Ahead of Eid al-Adha

Indonesian organisations continue to support over 2,000 Gaza orphans through virtual mentoring programmes, with Baznas coordinating food aid including 18,018 tins of corned beef for Eid al-Adha. The initiative underscores compassion beyond borders as Gaza faces a record 60,000 orphaned children amid worsening food shortages.

Analyst: Cabinet Secretary Teddy's Role Not Easy Amid Ongoing Gossip

Political analyst Hendri Satrio (Hensa) comments on Secretary of the Cabinet Teddy Indra Wijaya's social media transparency efforts, noting that while public visibility of bureaucratic processes is valuable, it does not prevent criticism. He highlights the gap between officials' perceived effort and public expectations for tangible outcomes, while observing that such transparency may drive healthier performance standards across government.

Bank Jakarta Strengthens Digital Transformation

Bank Jakarta is advancing its digital transformation to meet growing customer demand for seamless banking services, highlighted by seven awards at the 2025 Infobank-Isentia event, including Best Conventional Bank. The bank has launched a VISA debit card and is enhancing infrastructure to ensure faster, secure services, according to its executives.

UIN Jakarta strengthens Faculty of Economics and Business education quality to produce top-tier talent

UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has launched a new Master of Management programme to enhance economics and business education, producing graduates with technical proficiency and ethical integrity. The Faculty of Economics and Business will drive financial planning and business development, strengthening the university's financial independence.

East Java Education Department Confirms No Termination of Non-Civil Servant Teachers This Year

East Java Education Department confirms no non-civil servant teachers will be terminated this year, with salaries and teaching roles secured until end-2026. Central government is preparing new regulations to abolish the 'honorary teacher' term from 2027, replacing it with a formalised system. MPs have characterised the policy as part of civil service reforms and a provisional safeguard for educators.

Analyst: Teddy’s activity documentation serves as a public work report

Political communications analyst Hendri Satrio argues that public officials' documented daily activities, like those of Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, function as work reports to the public. While this transparency helps dispel baseless speculation, he notes the public ultimately judges effectiveness by tangible outcomes, which may compel other officials to increase their visibility and performance.

US and Iran to sign 60-day ceasefire deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz

The US and Iran are poised to sign a 60-day ceasefire deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, enabling Iran to resume oil exports and initiate nuclear talks. Under the agreement, Iran will clear mines in the strait and accept temporary sanctions relief in exchange for halting uranium enrichment, while broader sanctions relief will be contingent on a final verified deal. The White House aims to resolve outstanding issues quickly, though US officials caution that the ceasefire could collapse if Tehran is not serious about negotiations.

Young People Warned Against Overusing Paylater Services Amid Financial Risks

Diah Charmaningtyas of BNI's UGM Branch has cautioned young Indonesians against overusing paylater services, citing risks such as impulse purchases and subscription traps that can destabilise personal finances. She emphasised the importance of tracking cash flow and maintaining disciplined budgeting to avoid debt accumulation and ensure sustainable financial health. The advice was given during a session at the Jogja Financial Festival 2026.

Is it true that online loan debts are automatically written off after 90 days? The facts explained

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that online loan debts overdue for over 90 days are not automatically written off but classified as non-performing. Borrowers remain liable, face credit blacklisting, legal action, and accruing interest, while debt collection must follow regulations to prevent harassment.

Trenggalek’s People’s School Nurtures Twin Girls’ Optimistic Dreams

Twin sisters from Trenggalek, East Java, are overcoming family adversity through education at a state-supported school. Despite their mother’s absence and indifference, the girls remain determined to become entrepreneurs to support their father’s livelihood. The Integrated People’s School provides essential resources, enabling them to focus on their studies and future ambitions.

US will not allow Iran to hold global energy markets hostage – Rubio

The US has pledged not to let Iran leverage global energy markets in its dispute with Washington, as India resumes Iranian oil imports following sanctions relief. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasised opportunities for India to diversify energy supplies through US and Venezuelan sources, while also advancing defence and technology collaboration between the two nations.

Aigen Ultra Laptop Unveiled: Affordable Device with Cutting-Edge AI Technology

Advan has launched the Aigen Ultra, an AI-powered laptop featuring an Intel Core Ultra processor, 16GB RAM, and 256GB storage, aimed at students, content creators, and professionals. Priced at Rp9,799,000, it includes Microsoft Copilot integration and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The company also introduced the Advan Macha smartphone for Gen-Z and the Workplus Air for mobile professionals, emphasising cultural identity and technology-driven creativity.

Heartwarming Meeting Between Indonesian Foster Parents and Gaza Orphans in Hugging Palestinian Orphans Programme

Adara Relief International organised a virtual event connecting Indonesian sponsors with Gaza's orphaned children, highlighting their resilience amid conflict. Over 2,000 orphans are supported through the programme, with many expressing aspirations to rebuild Gaza. The charity also launched a Qurban campaign to deliver canned meat during Eid al-Adha, underscoring solidarity with Gaza's suffering community.

PT SMI allocates Rp69.7 billion for Padang Pariaman regional hospital construction

PT SMI has allocated Rp69.7 billion to develop a Type D regional hospital in Padang Pariaman, improving healthcare access and stimulating local economic growth. The project, set to break ground by mid-July, will serve multiple districts, reduce patient travel times, and support job creation and small business development in the area.

Sleman House Burns 11 Times in Two Days Due to Methane Leak

A house in Sleman experienced 11 separate fires over two days, caused by methane gas leaking from a non-compliant septic tank. Police confirmed the gas, which originated from a septic tank handling both household and poultry waste, seeped into the home, igniting furnishings without visible sparks. Authorities have urged immediate replacement of the faulty pipes to prevent further incidents.

Jambi Hajj pilgrim dies in Makkah due to cardiogenic shock

A Jambi Hajj pilgrim has died in Makkah due to cardiogenic shock, with pre-existing diabetes contributing to her condition. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has conveyed condolences and confirmed coordination with Saudi authorities for burial arrangements in the Holy Land.

BNI Educates Youth on Cash Flow Management

BNI has conducted financial education sessions during the Jogja Financial Festival 2026, focusing on cash flow management for young people. The session highlighted the importance of budgeting, saving, and avoiding impulsive spending, known as 'doom spending', to achieve sustainable financial health. Experts stressed that proper financial planning is essential for meeting personal goals without compromising future stability.

BYD Tech-Culture Fest Poster Sparks Controversy, Gerindra Jakarta Apologises

Gerindra Jakarta has apologised for a viral poster featuring its logo in BYD's Tech-Culture Fest event scheduled for May 2026 at Gelora Bung Karno. The party attributed the error to a media team oversight, while BYD confirmed the event was independent and unaffiliated with any political groups. Gerindra's representative insisted the mistake was unintentional and urged the public not to prolong the controversy.

Saudi Arabia Tightens Access to Mecca Ahead of Hajj 1447 AH Peak

Saudi authorities have intensified security measures for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage, restricting entry to Mecca for unauthorized individuals and cracking down on illegal travel agencies. The move aims to ensure pilgrim safety and order, with over 1.5 million international pilgrims already arriving.

Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs Warns of Digital Colonialism Through Algorithmic Dominance

Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria has warned that Indonesian youth face a new form of colonialism in the digital era through algorithmic dominance, which gradually shapes thinking, behaviour and public perception via social media platforms. He highlighted that artificial intelligence development and global competition for data, semiconductors and digital talent pose existential risks to Indonesia, unless the nation shifts from being a technology consumer to a technology producer with strong STEM education and digital literacy. Patria called on youth organisations and students to strengthen national technological independence and ensure Indonesia's digital space remains healthy, critical and productive.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education showcases student creativity at Pentas Pelajar 2026

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has highlighted Indonesian students' creativity through the Pentas Pelajar 2026 event, featuring diverse activities and participation from over 24,000 students nationwide. The initiative, including the 'Rukun Sama Teman' competition, promotes unity and empathy, with schools from Bandung, Denpasar, and Pangkalan Bun taking top honours. Education officials emphasise the importance of translating these values into everyday actions beyond the classroom.

Criminologist Says Shooting Robbers on the Spot Only Provides Temporary Deterrent

University of Indonesia criminologist Haniva Hasna has stated that shooting robbers on the spot provides only a short-term deterrent, as criminals adapt by changing tactics and using younger perpetrators. She warned that normalising lethal force risks abuse of power, wrongful shootings, and eroded public trust, urging instead comprehensive measures such as better patrols and street lighting.

Video: LEMHANAS Says Oil and Gas Profit-Sharing Scheme Proposed for Mining

LEMHANAS has highlighted the impact of global geopolitical volatility on Indonesia's mining sector, with coal RKAB improvements expected to drive investment and revenue. While nickel smelters face rising production costs, tin and copper sectors remain resilient. The institute also cautioned that applying oil and gas production sharing contracts to mining is premature due to differing business models, requiring long-term strategies to attract exploration investment.

Government Revisits 'Gross Split' Mining Scheme: What Are the Risks?

Indonesia’s government is reconsidering the application of the 'Gross Split' model for minerals and coal mining to boost state revenue, mirroring oil and gas sector practices. Experts warn that without adjustments for sector-specific risks, the scheme could deter exploration, particularly for high-cost projects, threatening future commodity supplies. Current tax regulation revisions aim to balance revenue collection with investment incentives in the upstream oil and gas industry.

Pocong Didn’t Jump: The Original Movement Method

Pocong, Indonesia’s iconic shroud ghost, was traditionally depicted rolling or walking before cinematic portrayals popularised jumping. The 1975 horror film *Setan Kuburan* cemented this shift, embedding the jumping motion in popular culture. Recent films now experiment with alternative movements, reflecting evolving interpretations of folklore.

ESDM Urges PLN to Maximise Power Restoration in Sumatra

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has urged PLN to expedite power restoration following a blackout that disrupted millions of customers and economic activities across Sumatra. Authorities are coordinating to investigate the cause and prevent future incidents, with over 8.5 million customers already restored power as of Saturday.

Public Works Minister Inspects Aek Tukka Sabo Dam Construction, Targets October 2026 Completion

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has inspected the Aek Tukka sabo dam project in North Sumatra to ensure post-disaster rehabilitation stays on schedule. The infrastructure aims to prevent sediment and debris from downstream flooding during heavy rains, with progress currently ahead of targets despite land and weather challenges.

PT SMI and GREI Sign Rp1.25 Billion Financing for Solar Power Plant Development

PT SMI has secured a Rp1.25 billion financing agreement with PT GREI to refinance operational solar power plant projects, backed by EU, Norfund, and other international investors. The deal aims to expand solar energy adoption in Indonesia's commercial and industrial sectors, supporting national climate goals and sustainable economic growth.

Khofifah Organises Subsidised Market in Kediri to Curb Inflation Ahead of Eid al-Adha

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has organised a series of subsidized markets in Kediri to control inflation and ensure affordable prices for essential goods ahead of Eid al-Adha. Despite heavy rain, hundreds attended the 69th such event, benefiting from government-subsidised commodities priced below the Maximum Retail Price. The initiative aims to safeguard consumer purchasing power without disrupting traditional market ecosystems.

Constitutional Law Expert Stresses State Loss Audit Must Go Through Constitutional Bodies

A constitutional law expert testified that state loss audits for corruption cases must be conducted by constitutionally mandated bodies like BPK, not administrative agencies. The expert cited the new Criminal Code and Constitutional Court rulings, stating that without such audits, corruption suspect status is invalid. The testimony underscores the necessity of adhering to constitutional procedures in law enforcement.

Neither Accepting Nor Rejecting Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradhawi’s Views Outright

KH Asnawi Ridwan, a Depok-based pesantren leader, outlines his approach to contemporary Islamic scholarship, accepting classical texts entirely while cautiously evaluating modern interpretations. He cites a recent debate over whether digital assets with commercial value should be classified as 'mal ma'nawi' under Sharia law, highlighting tensions between traditional jurisprudence and emerging digital commerce.

Siloam Hospitals Dhirga Surya Medan Becomes Indonesia’s First Private Hospital with Advanced Stroke Centre Certification

Siloam Hospitals Dhirga Surya Medan has become Indonesia’s first private hospital to secure Advanced Stroke Centre certification from the World Stroke Organization (WSO). The recognition comes as North Sumatra faces a stroke prevalence rate of 9.3%, the highest nationally, and underscores the importance of timely treatment within the critical 'golden period' of 4.5 hours to improve survival and reduce long-term disability.

Metro Police Chief Issues Directive for Clean Jakarta Movement at Central Jakarta Police Station

Central Jakarta Police Chief Commissioner Reynold Hutagalung has launched a cleanliness initiative to set public examples, emphasising waste segregation and environmental responsibility. The movement underscores that a clean environment reflects societal discipline and improves public service quality, aiming to foster a healthier, more orderly Jakarta.

Meet Sabo Dams: Critical Infrastructure on Volcanic Slopes for Disaster Mitigation

Sabo dams, concrete structures built on Indonesia's volcanic slopes, play a vital role in mitigating disaster risks by controlling lahar and volcanic debris flows. Originally introduced from Japanese technology in 1970, these infrastructures not only prevent material surges into populated areas but also serve as community bridges, enhancing local mobility and safety.

Nauru's Bankruptcy After Mismanagement and Luxury Car Spending

Nauru, once one of the world's richest nations due to phosphate mining, collapsed due to economic mismanagement, extravagant spending on luxury vehicles, and failed investments. The island nation later became a tax haven and money laundering hub, leading to US sanctions, and now faces severe health crises with high obesity and smoking rates. Its story underscores the perils of unsustainable resource exploitation without sound governance.

Proposal to Shoot Robbers on the Spot, Criminologist Warns of Potential Abuse of Power

Criminologist Haniva Hasna cautions that proposals to shoot robbers on the spot risk abuse of police authority, stressing the need for necessity, proportionality, and accountability. She emphasises that while decisive action is needed, it must remain within legal boundaries and not undermine human rights. The debate highlights the balance between public safety and civil liberties.

DPR member calls for government to increase vocational school scholarships

DPR member Hendry Munief has called for expanded vocational education scholarships and industry CSR directed towards vocational schools to boost Indonesia's skilled workforce competitiveness. He emphasised collaboration between government, industry, and educational institutions to create a sustainable vocational ecosystem, particularly in industrial hubs like Riau. The move aims to widen access for lower-income youth and align education with industry needs.

Police arrest suspect in elderly couple's bloodied murder in Sumbawa

Police have arrested a suspect in the murder of an elderly couple found bloodied in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara. The suspect was apprehended after his motorbike ran out of fuel during an attempted escape, with locals assisting in his capture. Authorities are investigating the motive, as the crime scene showed signs of forced entry and ransacking, despite the suspect's claim of a misunderstanding.

When Will the Lepas E4 Launch in Indonesia?

Lepas, Chery Group’s electric vehicle sub-brand, is set to launch the E4 SUV in Indonesia soon, following the earlier release of the L8. The model, designed for urban consumers with a premium, lifestyle-oriented approach, will expand Chery’s EV portfolio and heighten competition in Indonesia’s growing compact electric SUV market.

NTB Provincial Government Prepares Feasibility Study for Clean Energy 'Supergrid' Project

The West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government is conducting a feasibility study for a clean energy supergrid project connecting the Lesser Sunda Islands, with undersea cables across the Lombok Strait. The central government estimates the project's economic viability by 2031-2033, while NTB's renewable energy contribution (25%) surpasses the national average (15.75%). The province is seeking international investment to fund the infrastructure development.

UTBK SNBT 2026 Results to Be Announced Tomorrow: How to Check

Results for the 2026 UTBK SNBT university entrance examination will be published on Monday, 25 May, accessible from 15:00 WIB via the SNPMB website. Successful candidates must complete re-registration at their chosen institutions, while unsuccessful applicants may pursue alternative admission routes or retake the exam next year.

BPIP Releases Official 2026 Pancasila Day Ceremony Schedule and Full Speech Text

The Badan Pembinaan Ideologi Pancasila (BPIP) has published official guidelines for the 2026 Pancasila Day commemoration, detailing ceremony schedules for central, regional, and school levels alongside the full speech text. The event marks the 1945 introduction of Pancasila by Sukarno, with this year’s theme emphasising its role in national unity and global peace. The guidelines underscore Indonesia’s commitment to upholding Pancasila as a moral foundation amid global challenges.

Sumatra Blackout: InJourney Airports Remain Operational

Sumatra's power grid experienced a blackout on Friday, yet InJourney Airports' Sumatran airports remained operational through PLN and generator support. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is working with PLN to expedite restoration and conduct a thorough investigation to address the root cause and prevent recurrence.

PHE Partners with ExxonMobil and SK Group on Indonesia-South Korea CCS Project with $600 Million Potential

PHE, ExxonMobil, and SK Group have signed a joint study agreement to develop a transboundary carbon capture and storage project between Indonesia and South Korea, with potential cumulative investment of $600 million. The project involves transporting CO₂ from South Korea to Indonesia's Asri Basin for secure storage, creating up to 2,000 construction jobs per million tonnes of annual capacity. This initiative supports regional decarbonisation and enhances Indonesia's role as a CCS hub in the Asia-Pacific.

West Java Governor affirms Persib’s success as proof of professional club management

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi highlighted Persib Bandung’s three consecutive league titles as evidence of professional club management without government interference. He praised the achievement as a testament to true professionalism in Indonesian football and hinted at a bonus for the squad while urging orderly celebrations to maintain Bandung’s positive image.

Weekend travel? Look both ways before crossing level crossings

Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has warned of 40 high-risk railway crossings across Indonesia, particularly in areas with heavy traffic and expanding communities. The company urges drivers to exercise caution by checking both directions before crossing, as many crossings lack full safety measures. KAI is pushing for accelerated construction of flyovers and underpasses to reduce risks and enhance safety for both road users and trains.

Irjen Sandi Takes No Mercy on Muggers in South Sumatra with Strict, Measured Actions

South Sumatra Police Chief Irjen Sandi has declared zero tolerance for muggers, implementing strict yet measured measures to safeguard public safety and support regional economic stability. Police have increased patrols, secured high-risk areas, and activated a 24/7 emergency hotline to protect citizens, especially at night, while aligning with presidential priorities for national stability and investment climate. Authorities encourage the public to report crimes immediately via Call Center 110 for rapid response.

Doctors warn thalasemia patients against iron supplements

Doctors caution thalasemia patients against iron supplements due to risks of iron overload damaging vital organs. With no cure available, pre-marital genetic screening is critical to prevent severe cases, while BPJS Kesehatan fully covers treatment costs in East Kalimantan hospitals.

History Gives No Second Chance: Lessons from El Niño

El Niño is expected to intensify in late 2026, with an 82% chance of occurrence between May-July and 96% by December 2026-February 2027, threatening Indonesia's agriculture, food security, and public health. Authorities warn of prolonged droughts, crop failures, and rising food prices, urging immediate structural measures and collective action to mitigate impacts.

Bank Indonesia Introduces KLM Measures to Curb Credit Rate Increases

Bank Indonesia has introduced new Macroprudential Liquidity Incentive Policy (KLM) measures to curb aggressive credit interest rate hikes following a 50 basis point rate increase in May 2026. The scheme incentivises banks to maintain spreads between the BI Rate and credit rates, with higher rewards for tighter spreads. It also expands financing channels for MSMEs and alternative funding sources to sustain credit growth within the 8-12% target range.

Scientists Uncover Terrifying Truth: Humans Live in a Cannibal Galaxy

Scientists have discovered evidence that the Milky Way consumed a dwarf galaxy named Loki approximately 10 billion years ago, identified through 20 metal-poor stars. The research, published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, used data from the European Space Agency's Gaia telescope and Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope to trace galactic evolution. This finding sheds light on how our galaxy formed through mergers with smaller systems.

Haurgeulis Station Records Passenger Growth as North Coast Mobility Rises

Passenger numbers at Haurgeulis Station rose in early 2026, with boardings and alightings increasing year-on-year. The growth aligns with Indramayu Regency’s 5 per cent economic expansion, driven by trade, agriculture, and transport, as well as its status as a major rice-producing area. The station serves as a critical link for regional travel across Java, supporting both business and leisure journeys.

Groom Calls Off Wedding After Bride-to-Be Flees to Hotel with Boyfriend

A groom has called off his wedding after the bride-to-be fled with her boyfriend, prompting police mediation. The couple was found at a Jepara Regency hotel, though no formal report was filed. Authorities confirmed the groom has terminated the marriage arrangements.

US Military Capabilities Strained by Iran Conflict in Israel's Defence

The US military has expended nearly half its THAAD interceptor stockpile and destroyed $1bn worth of drones in defending Israel against Iran, according to reports. This has raised concerns in Washington about America's ability to meet security commitments elsewhere, as the scale of ammunition used exceeds Israel's own efforts.

WHO warns world on brink of more severe pandemic risk

The World Health Organization has cautioned that global pandemic preparedness is inadequate, with risks heightened by climate change, mobility, and conflict. Recent Ebola cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, though not yet classified as a pandemic emergency, pose significant cross-border spread risks due to the absence of approved treatments for the Bundibugyo strain.

Indomobil Expo Opens in Bandung to Target Electric Vehicle Market

The Indomobil Expo in Bandung highlights the growing electric vehicle market in West Java, supported by over 300 public charging stations and a 400% surge in charging transactions during Ramadan and Lebaran 2025. PLN's recent inauguration of its 5,000th charging station in Jakarta aims to boost public confidence in electric mobility, with the expo offering various financing options and test drives.

Shark Sighting in The Nusa Dua Waters Deemed Safe by ITDC

The Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) has confirmed a shark sighting near The Nusa Dua coastal waters poses no danger to tourists, with the species identified as non-threatening blacktip sharks. The animals, which follow plankton and small fish movements, indicate a healthy marine ecosystem. Authorities continue routine monitoring while urging the public to remain calm and follow official instructions.

INTCC Connect 2026: Strengthening Indonesia-Thailand Business and Legal Cooperation

INTCC hosted a networking event in Bangkok to enhance bilateral business ties and legal cooperation between Indonesia and Thailand. Attendees included diplomats, business leaders, and legal professionals, highlighting the importance of cross-sector collaboration in fostering investment and trade. The forum underscored the role of modern law firms as strategic partners in supporting sustainable business growth in the region.

KEK Industropolis Batang Bakal Adopsi Konsep Kawasan Industri Jepang - Medcom.id

KEK Industropolis Batang is implementing Japanese industrial zone concepts to create a sustainable innovation hub, focusing on green spaces, efficient mobility, and integrated energy systems. Supported by Japanese investment exceeding USD 18 billion over five years and Indonesian government initiatives, the project supports Indonesia's 2045 Golden Vision for regional supply chain growth.

Weekend trip to Yogyakarta on Bogowonto train? Over 91,000 passengers choose southern route in early 2026

The Bogowonto train service saw passenger numbers rise to 91,892 between January and April 2026, up from 89,236 in the same period last year. KAI's Vice President noted the growth reflects strong demand for comfortable rail travel on the busy Jakarta-Yogyakarta corridor. The southern route offers scenic views and serves diverse travel needs, including tourism and business.

Chicken Eggs vs Duck Eggs: Which is Healthier?

A comparison of chicken and duck eggs reveals differences in nutritional content, with duck eggs higher in protein, vitamin B12, and iron, while chicken eggs have lower fat and cholesterol. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin recommends boiled eggs as a healthy breakfast alternative to traditional dishes such as nasi uduk and bubur ayam.

Trump claims Iran peace deal framework to be announced soon

US President Donald Trump has stated that a framework for an agreement with Iran is imminent, which could reopen the Strait of Hormuz shipping lanes and pave the way for new Middle East peace talks. Global markets have reacted positively as Brent crude surged past $100 a barrel amid hopes of reduced tensions. Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed final stages of negotiations, with current focus solely on ending hostilities before addressing nuclear issues.

Extreme weather prompts Bengkulu City to deploy 24-hour disaster response team

Bengkulu City Government has activated its 24-hour disaster response team to address risks from heavy rain and strong winds, including fallen trees, flash floods, and coastal high waves. Authorities advise residents in vulnerable areas to monitor water levels and fishermen to check weather updates to ensure safety.

Bareskrim Dispatches Team to Jambi to Investigate Cause of Hours-Long Power Blackouts in Sumatra

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Directorate (Bareskrim) has deployed a team to Jambi to investigate the cause of extensive power blackouts affecting several Sumatran provinces, which began on Friday evening. Preliminary indications suggest the outage was triggered by weather-related damage to a high-voltage transmission line between Muara Bungo and Sungai Rumbai, causing cascading system failures across the region, though investigators have found no evidence of deliberate sabotage thus far.

Bogor Woman's Killer Arrested as Family Seeks Appropriate Punishment

Police in Bogor arrested a suspect in the murder of a 25-year-old woman within 24 hours. The victim's uncle and adoptive father thanked authorities for their swift action and demanded the perpetrator face the death penalty or life imprisonment. The suspect is accused of throwing the victim from the Bogor Outer Ring Road toll road onto a street below.

MyPertamina Wins Digital Innovation Award for Energy Service Transformation

MyPertamina has won the Digital Innovation Awards 2026 for Excellence in National Energy Digital Ecosystem Transformation. The app leverages AI, big data, and IoT to modernise energy services, improving transparency and efficiency. Pertamina Patra Niaga’s efforts align with national goals for a sustainable and inclusive energy ecosystem.

Bengkulu Octopus Festival: Savouring the Popular Sambal Langat Octopus Dish

The annual Octopus Festival in Kaur Regency, Bengkulu, showcased the local delicacy sambal langat octopus, prepared with green eggplants and coconut milk. Organised by the regional government, the event attracted officials and tourists, with the dish quickly consumed by attendees. The festival, featuring cultural performances and mass cooking, is a key attraction for the community.

Peak Hajj Phase Begins Tomorrow

Indonesian Hajj pilgrims will begin the peak phase tomorrow, moving to Arafah for the wukuf ritual amid concerns over traffic congestion and extreme heat. The Ministry of Hajj confirms 90% facility readiness, while authorities address issues such as alleged extortion on elderly pilgrims and a Saudi ultimatum regarding territory allocation for future Hajj operations.

Current Condition of DPR Member Gus Hilman Following Fatal Crash

Gus Hilman, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives, has passed the critical phase after a fatal crash on the Pasuruan-Probolinggo Toll Road. Two of his staff members died, with police suspecting driver fatigue as the cause. He is expected to recover and resume his parliamentary duties.

Vietnamese Businesswoman's Birkin Bags Fetch $440,000 in 30-Minute Auction

Two Hermès Birkin bags owned by Vietnamese businesswoman Truong My Lan, seized after her conviction for bank fraud, sold for $440,144 and $94,858 in a 30-minute auction. The rare designs, particularly the white model with rhinestones, highlight their status as luxury investment assets, with prices significantly exceeding initial bids.

Kediri 'Pocong' Content Created for Sensationalism, Three Arrested

Three people have been arrested in Kediri for creating a viral 'pocong' horror video on social media to seek attention, causing public alarm. Police have warned against producing content that disrupts public order in pursuit of online fame.

DIY Appeals to Tourists to Book Accommodation Through Official Websites to Prevent Fraud

The Yogyakarta Regional Government's Tourism and Culture Office has urged tourists to book accommodation only through official websites to combat increasing fraud. The head of the office, Imam Pratanadi, warned that scammers are exploiting viral tourism destinations and word-of-mouth recommendations, particularly targeting domestic tourists during holiday periods. The regional government has pledged to take firm action against identified fraudsters and encourages the public to report suspicious activities to authorities.

Lost STNK? Here's How to Replace It and the Costs at Samsat

The Vehicle Registration Certificate (STNK) is a mandatory document for Indonesian motor vehicle owners, requiring replacement if lost to prevent administrative issues and identity fraud. According to Police Regulation No. 7 of 2021 and Government Regulation No. 60 of 2016, the process involves specific procedures and fees at local Samsat offices. Authorities advise secure storage to avoid misuse of vehicle details.

Video: Profit – Indonesia's Jamu Industry Advances into Modern Wellness Business

Indonesia's herbal medicine industry, valued at up to Rp 350 trillion annually, remains reliant on pharmaceutical imports despite significant domestic demand. Regulatory hurdles, such as CPOTB compliance, pose challenges for small businesses, with only 71 out of 20,000 registered products achieving higher classification. PT Ultra Sakti is driving innovation and expansion to integrate traditional jamu into the global wellness market.

Maybank Indonesia's Quiet Investing Strategy for 2026 Markets

Maybank Indonesia's Head of Wealth Management advises a quiet investing approach for 2026, emphasising structured portfolios and regular contributions to avoid emotional decisions. The strategy prioritises long-term stability over short-term gains, helping investors stay disciplined amid market volatility. This approach ensures alignment with personal financial goals and sustainable wealth building.

Who is the World Steel King? China's Output Accounts for 52% of Global Total

China accounts for 52% of global crude steel production, with 960.8 million tonnes in 2023, dwarfing the next 12 producers combined. Indonesia ranks 15th globally with 19 million tonnes, driven by nickel downstreaming and industrial expansion, as the steel sector shifts towards low-carbon production amid changing investment trends.

Pertamina, ERIA team up on Indonesias energy transition

Pertamina has partnered with the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) to advance Indonesia’s energy transition and self-sufficiency goals under its Dual Growth Strategy. The collaboration includes policy research, economic analysis, and capacity building to support the shift toward cleaner energy while optimising fossil fuel operations. The partnership aims to bolster Pertamina’s regional standing as global energy transition efforts intensify.

Borobudur Temple Operations Restricted Until 2pm on Waisak Day 2026

Tourist operations at Borobudur Temple will be limited to 2pm on Waisak Day 2026 to facilitate religious ceremonies, with drone shows and 2,570 peace lanterns planned. The Ministry of Religious Affairs emphasised the Pindapata tradition as a lesson in life, while East Java's corrections department granted special remission to Buddhist prisoners in 2025. The event aims to blend spiritual observance with cultural tourism despite access restrictions.

Karangasem Public Prosecutor’s Office Hosts Public Service Bazaar for SIM, Passport and Administrative Services

The Karangasem Public Prosecutor’s Office organised a public service bazaar on Veteran Road, offering SIM, passport, and various administrative services through inter-agency collaboration. The initiative, supported by local government and police, aims to provide accessible and efficient public services, with officials praising the partnership and suggesting monthly events.

Two Teenagers Assaulted at Kemayoran Petrol Station in Central Jakarta, Police Investigate

Police are investigating an alleged assault on two teenagers at a Kemayoran petrol station in Central Jakarta, following viral social media footage of the incident. The attack, which occurred early Sunday morning, saw a group of youths attacking the victims while pushing back a petrol station attendant who tried to intervene. A taxi driver present at the scene fled the area, according to police statements.

Pertamina, ERIA team up on Indonesia's energy transition

Pertamina has partnered with the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) to advance Indonesia’s energy transition through policy research and capacity building. The collaboration, led by Pertamina Energy Institute, supports the state-owned firm’s dual strategy of optimising fossil fuel operations while accelerating low-carbon energy development. This move aims to bolster national energy security and strengthen Pertamina’s regional standing amid global energy shifts.

Lemhannas 61st Anniversary: A Moment to Strengthen National Resilience for Astacita

Lemhannas marked its 61st anniversary with activities promoting national resilience and support for President Prabowo's Astacita vision for Golden Indonesia 2045. The institute highlighted its role in developing national leaders and strategic studies, while involving MSMEs and agencies like the National Food Agency to bolster grassroots economic strength and national economic resilience.

What Happens to Water Resources Projects After Three Officials Are Named Corruption Suspects?

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has assured that water resources projects will proceed uninterrupted despite corruption allegations against officials, urging public confidence in priority initiatives for the 2026 food self-sufficiency target. He emphasised that legal processes are transparent and that no projects would be halted, even if senior officials face charges. Hanggodo also warned of a 'deep state' within the ministry, likening it to termites eroding wood from within, which poses a serious threat to bureaucratic integrity.

Indonesia, Saudi Arabia discuss enhanced security for Hajj pilgrims

Indonesia and Saudi Arabia are enhancing security cooperation for Hajj pilgrims through intelligence exchange and coordinated protection measures. Indonesian authorities, including Polri and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, are also addressing domestic fraud cases and preventing unauthorized departures to safeguard citizens during the annual pilgrimage, which this year includes 221,000 pilgrims.

Viral: Monkey Chained on Margonda Road in Depok, Fire Department Inspects

A monkey chained to a roadside in Depok has been exposed to daily traffic pollution and extreme weather since late 2025. Authorities confirmed the animal belongs to a street performer who is currently untraceable, with responsibility for its evacuation falling under the Wildlife Conservation Agency rather than local fire services.

Casio earU ER-100: Stylish Open-Ear Hearing Aid Officially Released

Casio has launched its earU ER-100, an open-ear hearing aid designed for comfort and discretion, featuring digital sound processing and app-based customisation. Priced at around Rp5.1-5.2 million, it aims to blend medical functionality with modern style. Meanwhile, Indonesian initiatives such as Kogabwilhan III's aid distribution and the Nobel Run 2025 event highlight growing efforts to support the hearing-impaired community.

Suspect named in Bogor toll road murder and body dumping case

Police have named a suspect in the murder of a 25-year-old woman whose body was found after being thrown from the Bogor Outer Ring Road tollway. The suspect was arrested during a police chase on the toll road hours after the victim was discovered. CCTV footage corroborates the victim was discarded from the elevated toll road onto a street below, with authorities confirming the incident is linked to the viral arrest video.

Faculty Strengthens Development Strategy Through Consultation

UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta's Faculty of Economics and Business has initiated a strategic consultation to bolster academic and institutional development, including the launch of a new Master of Management program. The rector emphasised the faculty's pivotal role in driving financial autonomy and cross-sector collaboration, stressing unified efforts to achieve global competitiveness.

Ngurah Rai Immigration Foils 13 Indonesians' Non-Procedural Hajj Attempt

Ngurah Rai Immigration Office thwarted 13 Indonesians attempting a non-procedural Hajj journey after uncovering discrepancies in their travel documents and WhatsApp communications indicating a Dubai-bound trip. Authorities detained the group under immigration laws, transferring them to police for further inquiry, while stressing the importance of using official channels to ensure legal protection and safety.

Immigration Directorate General Provides Passport Services at CFD Events in Jakarta and Regions

The Immigration Directorate General has expanded passport services to Car Free Day events across Jakarta and other regions weekly, responding to high public demand. The initiative, part of the 'Immigration for the People' campaign, includes increased applicant quotas and plans for future Sunday-based innovations.

Malaysia Welcomes Significant Progress in US-Iran Talks

Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has expressed optimism over advancing US-Iran negotiations, particularly regarding the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He highlighted constructive regional efforts and US President Trump's direct involvement, urging all parties to capitalise on the opportunity for a successful agreement that ensures maritime security and regional stability.

East Java Governor: Social Assistance Strengthens Protection for Vulnerable Communities

The East Java government has allocated Rp1.819 billion in social assistance to support vulnerable communities, aiming to enhance economic resilience and entrepreneurship beyond basic needs. The initiative, part of the Nawa Bhakti Satya programme, underscores efforts to build a sustainable welfare system aligned with the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Pubei Lychees Reach Wider Markets Thanks to Modern Supply Chains

Pubei lychees are now reaching international markets faster through improved cold chain logistics, e-commerce, and streamlined customs procedures. Exports to Indonesia and Singapore are rising, with local authorities expanding the industry to boost farmers' incomes and develop rural tourism.

KEK Industropolis Batang Bidik Investor Jepang Buat Industri High Tech | IDN Times

KEK Industropolis Batang aims to attract Japanese investors for high-tech industries by creating an integrated ecosystem encompassing industrial, logistics, distribution, and tourism sectors. Deputy Governor of Bank Indonesia Filianingsih Hendarta noted its strong appeal due to financial stability, local currency transaction policies, and competitive fiscal incentives, making it a strategic location for Japanese industrial growth in Indonesia.

Why Kodam Jaya is Joining the Crackdown on Street Robbers

The Jakarta Military Command (Kodam Jaya) has announced its collaboration with police to combat street robberies in Jakarta, citing public safety as a priority. Lieutenant General Deddy Suryadi emphasised the need for community cooperation and a balanced approach between firm action and humanitarian measures to prevent further unrest. The move underscores the shared responsibility between TNI, police, and citizens in maintaining security.

Sony Alpha 7R VI Mirrorless Camera Officially Launched in Indonesia: Specifications, AI Features and Price

Sony Indonesia has launched the Alpha 7R VI, the sixth-generation mirrorless camera in its acclaimed Alpha series, featuring a 66.8-megapixel sensor and advanced AI capabilities. The device targets professional photographers with enhanced image detail and responsiveness, priced at Rp74.999.000 with pre-orders open until 22 June 2026.

Hajj Pilgrims Urged to Stay Healthy and Avoid Getting Lost Ahead of Armuzna

Indonesian Hajj officials urge pilgrims to prioritise health and coordination as the critical Armuzna rituals approach, amid rising congestion and extreme heat. The warnings follow a recent case of a 72-year-old pilgrim's death after going missing, highlighting the need for better communication and supervision, particularly for the elderly. Authorities stress the importance of rest, spiritual preparation, and adherence to logistical plans to ensure safe completion of the pilgrimage.

Signs of the Apocalypse Are Growing Clearer in Milk and Rice Fields

Climate change is increasingly disrupting global food systems as rising temperatures threaten rice cultivation and dairy production, according to recent studies. Researchers warn that rice yields could collapse due to unsustainable heat levels, while milk quality deteriorates, affecting cheese flavour and nutritional value. These trends pose significant risks to food security and agricultural economies, particularly in Asia where rice is a staple.

Burnley vs Wolverhampton Wanderers Preview: Mission to Avoid Bottom Spot

PT DSI Persero is set to assume full export functions from January 2027, while Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers prepare for their final Premier League match as both teams face relegation. The Clarets aim to avoid finishing bottom with a draw, whereas Wolves must secure victory to climb above them.

Anjungan Tukad Melangit in Bangli Now a Memory

The former Instagrammable tourist spot Anjungan Tukad Melangit in Bangli, once a popular photo location, has been permanently closed since the pandemic. Originally a casual hangout for locals, it became a viral attraction before succumbing to COVID-19 restrictions. Local authorities have discussed reviving it but no concrete steps have been taken.

Meta Launches Standalone Forum App to Challenge Reddit

Meta has launched a standalone Forum app designed to compete with Reddit by offering in-depth community discussions. The platform integrates with Facebook accounts, uses AI features for content moderation and question summarisation, and keeps user groups within Facebook's ecosystem. This follows Meta's earlier attempt with Facebook Groups, which was discontinued in 2017.

Exploring Tambora's Gang Venus: From Sunless to Brighter

Gang Venus in Tambora, Jakarta, has seen improved lighting following government-enforced building regulations after a major fire six years ago. Despite progress, some areas remain dark due to existing structures, and recent electrical fires continue to worry residents. The area's low rental costs attract newcomers, though safety concerns persist.

BPMA and SKK Migas sign MoU to enable Aceh's participation in offshore oil and gas management

The Aceh Oil and Gas Management Agency (BPMA) and the Special Task Force for Oil and Gas (SKK Migas) have signed a memorandum of understanding enabling Aceh to take an active role in managing offshore oil and gas resources beyond 12 nautical miles. This collaboration grants BPMA key responsibilities including stakeholder coordination, public relations, licensing facilitation, and access to development plans. The move is expected to enhance production, increase revenue sharing for Aceh, and bolster national energy security.

US Charges Former Cuban President Raul Castro: Who Is He?

The United States has charged 94-year-old former Cuban president Raul Castro with murder over the 1996 downing of two aircraft by Cuban forces, which killed four people. The charges emerge amid Cuba's severe economic crisis and strained US-Cuba relations, following a brief diplomatic thaw under Obama that was later reversed under Trump.

Journalist in Bengkulu Files Police Report After Being Threatened with Gun at Nightclub

A local online journalist in Bengkulu, Zainal Arifin, has filed a report with the Bengkulu Regional Police after being threatened with a pistol by a nightclub patron on 22 May 2026. The incident follows a conflict over coverage of an assault case at Black Rock Cafe, and the journalist's lawyer argues that the threats and social media insults constitute threats to press freedom that require urgent law enforcement response.

Bekasi Couple Scammed by Wedding Organiser as Guests Served Only Mineral Water, Police Urge Report

A couple in Bekasi was scammed by a wedding organiser, resulting in a bare-bones reception where guests were served only mineral water. Police have urged the victims to file a report, confirming they will investigate the case. The incident has sparked widespread social media backlash, with reports detailing the deception.

BP BUMN Head Rebukes PTPN Over Elderly Mujiran Case, Orders Job Provision

The Head of the BUMN Regulatory Body (BP BUMN), Dony Oskaria, has reprimanded PT Perkebunan Nusantara (PTPN) for pursuing legal action against an elderly man who collected leftover rubber from its plantation. He instructed PTPN to withdraw the complaint, issue a formal apology, and offer employment to the man or his family, stressing that state-owned enterprises must prioritise public welfare over punitive measures. The case will serve as a red flag for all BUMNs to review their asset protection procedures and adopt restorative justice approaches.

PPIH Prepares Substitute Hajj Staff

The Saudi Hajj Service Agency (PPIH) has prepared 587 staff to manage substitute Hajj for pilgrims who die or fall ill before key rituals. Preliminary data shows 78 cases identified, with 135 more in hospital requiring prioritisation. Additionally, measures are being taken to ease congestion in Muzdalifah and prevent heat-related illnesses among elderly and disabled pilgrims.

National Tobacco Control Commission: Cigarette Spending a Key Driver of Household Poverty

The National Tobacco Control Commission has identified cigarette spending as a key driver of household poverty in Indonesia, with tobacco expenditure exceeding budgets for nutritious food. The commission highlighted significant health impacts, including brain damage in youth and increased stunting risks, alongside economic losses from healthcare costs. It urged prioritising consumption control and criticised the 2026 excise policy for insufficient focus on reducing smoking.

Makassar Police seize 6 kg of meth with international link

Makassar police confiscated six kilograms of methamphetamine valued at Rp12.1 billion in a cross-provincial operation targeting a trafficking network spanning Jakarta, Makassar, and Pekanbaru. Seven suspects, including four repeat offenders, face charges under Indonesia's Narcotics Law with penalties ranging from six years to the death penalty. The case underscores the government's stringent enforcement against international drug trafficking under strict legal frameworks.

Crystal Palace vs Arsenal Preview: The Champions' Final Mission at Selhurst Park

PT DSI Persero is set to assume full export operations from January 2027. The article previews Arsenal's Premier League match against Crystal Palace, detailing key player injuries and tactical considerations for both teams.

Chaos as Tens of Thousands Take to Streets Demanding President's Resignation

Serbian capital Belgrade witnessed violent protests as tens of thousands demanded early elections and the resignation of President Aleksandar Vučić. The demonstrations, part of an ongoing anti-corruption movement following a deadly train station collapse, have escalated into widespread political unrest, with clashes between police and demonstrators leading to arrests and tear gas use.

AH Bimo Suryono Reappointed as KBPP Polri Chief Following Swearing-In by Deputy Police Chief

AH Bimo Suryono has been reappointed as chairman of the Indonesian National Police's KBPP for the 2026-2031 term, reaffirming the organisation's alignment with Polri and support for President Prabowo's government. He stressed the importance of safeguarding the police institution's reputation and noted the challenges in documenting retired officers' families, requesting assistance from Bhabinkamtibmas officers nationwide. Deputy Police Chief Dedi Prasetyo confirmed Polri's commitment to digitising the documentation system and strengthening communication with KBPP leadership at all levels.

Grandfather Stabs Ex-Wife During Child's Wedding Reception in Sunter

An elderly man has been arrested for stabbing his ex-wife during his child's wedding reception in North Jakarta. Police suspect the attack was motivated by revenge, with evidence of premeditation including a handwritten letter and a concealed knife. The suspect faces charges under the Indonesian Criminal Code for premeditated assault, potentially facing up to four years in prison.

Depok Husband Assaults Wife Over Motorcycle Key, Victim Reports to Police

A husband in Depok assaulted his wife during a dispute over a motorcycle key, causing minor injuries. The case has been referred to the Women and Children's Service Unit for further investigation, underscoring ongoing efforts to address domestic violence through legal and social channels.

Ministry to assist rubber farmers to increase productivity, income

The Indonesian government has committed to assisting rubber farmers in boosting productivity and income through inter-ministerial collaboration, addressing challenges such as aged trees requiring replanting and the need for research into improved seeds. This initiative aims to sustain Indonesia's status as the world's second-largest rubber exporter while enhancing the livelihoods of smallholder farmers through added value and sustainable practices.

President Prabowo Joins Shrimp Harvest in Kebumen

President Prabowo Subianto participated in a bountiful shrimp harvest at a BUBK site in Kebumen, where productivity reached 40 tonnes per hectare—among the highest globally. The project currently employs 650 local workers, with plans to expand to Waingapu, Gorontalo, and West Java's North Coast.

Want to Attend the 2026 Vesak Lantern Festival at Borobudur? Check Ticket Prices and Regulations

The 2026 Vesak Lantern Festival at Borobudur will enforce strict regulations for attendees, including dress codes, silence during the event, and mandatory wristbands. These measures aim to preserve the sanctity of the UNESCO World Heritage site and ensure orderly participation.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Deploys Emergency Clinics for Peak Hajj

Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has deployed emergency clinics in Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina to address medical needs during the peak Hajj period, supported by 1,200 healthcare workers. Stricter pre-departure health screenings have significantly reduced pilgrim hospitalisations and fatalities. Authorities are also seeking diplomatic solutions to allow elderly and high-risk pilgrims to participate in certain rituals without violating Saudi regulations.

Southeast Asian Smartphone Market Contracts 9%, Samsung Sole Gainer

Southeast Asia's smartphone shipments fell 9% year-on-year to 21.6 million units in Q1 2026, with Samsung the only vendor to post growth (4% YoY) driven by its Galaxy S26 flagship and mid-range A Series. Rising memory component costs pushed average prices up 19%, forcing vendors to adjust pricing and specifications in entry-level and mid-range segments to protect margins.

Man in North Jakarta Writes Letter Before Stabbing Ex-Wife, Expressing Heartbreak

A man in North Jakarta stabbed his ex-wife during their child's wedding reception after allegedly writing a letter detailing his grievances. Police identified revenge as the motive, with the victim sustaining one stab wound. The suspect faces charges under the Criminal Code for premeditated assault, carrying a potential four-year prison sentence.

Rediscovering Lost Music in Blok M Square's Basement

Untung has run Hysteria Music, a cassette tape store in Blok M Square's basement, for a decade, defying the digital age. Despite the decline of physical media, rare cassettes are now sought-after collectibles, with prices soaring for rare releases. The resurgence, driven by Gen-Z nostalgia and curiosity, highlights a unique blend of past and present in Jakarta's music culture.

Thalasemia Patients Prohibited from Taking Iron Supplements – Why

Thalasemia patients must avoid iron supplements due to risks of iron overload from blood transfusions, which can damage organs like the heart and kidneys. BPJS Kesehatan covers all treatment costs in East Kalimantan, while doctors advise prospective couples to undergo genetic screening before marriage to prevent transmission.

Directorate General of Taxes uncovers loophole in electric vehicle tax incentives - IKPI

The Indonesian Tax Directorate has identified that companies are exploiting electric vehicle tax incentives by prioritising tax benefits over technology transfer and domestic workforce development. The government is now conducting evaluations to ensure investments align with proposals and deliver real impacts on national industry growth.

Finance Minister: Global Investors Still Trust Indonesia's Economic Fundamentals

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa affirmed that global investors maintain confidence in Indonesia's economic fundamentals despite international market volatility, as evidenced by strong demand for government bonds. He highlighted robust first-quarter growth of 5.61% driven by household consumption, investment, and government spending, with the fiscal deficit stabilised at 0.64% of GDP. The government aims to sustain this momentum through careful budget management to bolster private sector activity.

Didi Apriadi: Article 33 of 1945 Constitution for People's Prosperity

Special Staff Didi Apriadi has praised President Prabowo Subianto's speech on the 2027 economic policy, stating it aligns with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution to maximise public prosperity. The government plans to centralise natural resource exports through PT Danantara to prevent $150bn annual revenue leaks, with potential expansion to other commodities. This initiative is viewed as a crucial step towards a more equitable and prosperous national economy.

Elderly man suspected of stabbing ex-wife at child's wedding reception in North Jakarta over revenge motive

An elderly man has been arrested after allegedly stabbing his ex-wife during their child's wedding reception in North Jakarta. Police suspect the attack was motivated by revenge, following a note the suspect wrote earlier that day. The incident occurred on 23 May 2026, with the suspect apprehended immediately.

Pertamina Denies Rumours of Pertalite Restrictions Starting 1 June 2026

Pertamina has refuted social media claims that subsidised Pertalite fuel will face restrictions based on vehicle engine capacity starting 1 June 2026. The state-owned enterprise confirmed no official government directives have been issued regarding such limitations. Rumours circulating online list specific car models allegedly banned from using the fuel, but Pertamina stated these claims are unfounded.

Video: Post-Lebaran, Kalteng's Agricultural and Trade Credit Demand Soars

Bank Kalteng has intensified support for government priority programmes through expanded MSME financing, with a focus on shifting from household consumption to productive activities post-Lebaran. Its strategies include strengthening local ecosystems, digitalisation, and expanding its branch network to boost working capital credit demand in key sectors such as trade, construction, and agriculture.

DSSA Excluded from FTSE Russell Index Effective 22 June 2026, Retail Investors Told to 'Wait and See'

DSSA's exclusion from the FTSE Large Cap index from 22 June 2026, driven by high shareholding concentration, has intensified short-term pressure on its shares. Market analysts caution that reduced liquidity and institutional avoidance will likely lead to volatile and declining prices, exacerbated by prior removals from Indonesia's LQ45 index and MSCI restrictions.

MBG Programme Reaches 62.4 Million Beneficiaries, Full Data Released

The Indonesian government's Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) programme has expanded to 62.4 million beneficiaries, with schoolchildren forming the largest group. Since its launch in January 2025, 8.3 billion meals have been distributed, while engagement with thousands of local businesses has bolstered regional economies and national food security.

BP BUMN Head Condemns Criminalisation of Elderly Mujiran, Issues Stern Warning to PTPN

The head of BP BUMN has condemned the criminalisation of an elderly man in Lampung for collecting rubber sap and issued stern directives to PTPN, including halting legal proceedings and offering employment. Dony Oskaria stressed that state-owned enterprises must serve the public, not criminalise the poor, and ordered a review of asset protection procedures to adopt restorative justice.

Giant panda cub Rio set for public debut from end of May

Indonesia's first giant panda cub, Rio, is scheduled for a phased public debut at Taman Safari Indonesia from late May 2026, marking a milestone in wildlife conservation. The 11.5kg cub, born to Chinese loaned pandas, is thriving under veterinary care with focus on teething and nutrition. His introduction highlights ongoing Indonesia-China collaboration and has generated significant public anticipation.

Lost SIM Can Be Reissued: Requirements and Fees

Drivers in Indonesia can reissue lost driving licences (SIM) without starting a new application, provided they submit a police report confirming the loss as per Regulation No. 2 of 2023. The process can be completed at any traffic police office (Satpas) nationwide, eliminating the need to return to the original issuing city. The police report serves as proof that the applicant previously held a SIM and that its validity remains active.

Attorney General's Office names four new suspects in West Kalimantan bauxite mining permit case, including Energy Ministry analyst

The Attorney General's Office has named four new suspects in a corruption case concerning bauxite mining permits in West Kalimantan between 2017 and 2025. The suspects include a company commissioner, a licensing consultant, a Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources analyst, and a company director, all accused of illegally obtaining permits and export documents. The case involves alleged bribery to secure permits despite non-compliance with regulations, with charges under Indonesia's criminal and anti-corruption laws.

CT Arsa Foundation Donates Ambulance to Mertelu Village

CT Arsa Foundation has donated an ambulance to Mertelu Village in Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, as part of its 110th anniversary celebrations. The donation was presented during a traditional Kirab Rasul procession, where local residents carried agricultural offerings from the village office to Situs Migit before distributing them to participants. The event served as a cultural ritual expressing gratitude for the harvest and communal safety.

BTN Disburses 6 Million Subsidised Housing Loans for Third Decile Households

PT Bank Tabungan Negara has disbursed six million subsidized housing loans for households in the third decile, as part of government efforts to support low-income groups. The programme targets deciles 3-8 through KPR subsidies, while deciles 1-2 receive direct housing assistance. The government is also exploring extending loan terms to 40 years to enhance accessibility.

Fire at Kalideres rental units and shops causes Rp 1 billion in losses

A fire in West Jakarta's Kalideres district destroyed rental units and shops, resulting in Rp 1 billion in damages. Despite affecting 16 people from four families, there were no casualties. The incident went viral on social media, with footage capturing the blaze and the call to prayer.

Igniting Digital Learning

Indonesia's Kemendikdasmen has launched digital initiatives to address disparities in school resources, focusing on whether technology genuinely enhances learning rather than just modernizing classrooms. These tools aim to bridge gaps between well-equipped and under-resourced schools across the archipelago, ensuring equitable education quality.

Police Arrest Three Suspects in Teenage Stabbing at Cibodas Flyover

Police in Tangerang have arrested three suspects linked to a violent stabbing attack on two teenagers at Cibodas Flyover, sparked by a minor road dispute. The victims sustained severe injuries requiring hospital treatment, while authorities continue to pursue additional suspects, including the alleged mastermind. The case highlights growing concerns over street violence and public safety in the region.

Woman Found Dead in Bogor After Being Thrown from Toll Road by Suspect, CCTV Footage Reveals

A 26-year-old woman was discovered dead in Bogor after her body was allegedly dumped from a toll road, captured on CCTV footage. Police have apprehended the suspect and are investigating the motive and relationship between the victim and perpetrator.

Minister of Public Works Reiterates 'State Within a State' Remarks in His Ministry

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo has addressed corruption allegations involving three officials in his ministry, linking the issue to a 'deep state' or 'state within a state' previously noted by President Prabowo. He likened the problem to termites undermining structural integrity, stressing the need for personnel reshuffles to eliminate corrupt practices. He assured no protection for implicated officials and full cooperation with Law Enforcement Agencies to ensure legal proceedings.

Dedi Mulyadi: Persib Parade Four Times Larger Than Last Year as Professionalism Secures Championship

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi highlighted a fourfold increase in Persib Bandung’s victory parade turnout, crediting the club’s professionalism and fan support for their fifth league title. Officials emphasised the importance of maintaining safety during celebrations while aiming to remain top of Liga 1.

DPR RI's Hajj Oversight Team Applauds KKIH Services in Saudi Arabia

DPR RI's Hajj Oversight Team praised the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic (KKIH) in Saudi Arabia for its healthcare services, with pilgrim deaths reduced to less than half of last year's figure—64 recorded before the Hajj peak. They highlighted sufficient medication supplies and effective early detection measures, though some preventive strategies at the flight group level need improvement.

Top 10 Countries with the Best Healthcare Systems in the World

A global ranking highlights the top 10 countries with the most effective healthcare systems, emphasising factors such as accessibility, cost efficiency, and life expectancy. Nations like Singapore and Japan achieve high rankings through preventive care and universal coverage, while the US struggles despite high expenditure due to unequal access. The analysis underscores that affordability and equitable access are critical, not just technological advancements.

IBCSD Urges Acceleration of Climate Investment for Industrial Decarbonisation Through Business Forum

The Indonesia Business Council for Sustainable Development (IBCSD) and Sustainable Energy Transition in Indonesia (SETI) convened a business forum to address challenges and financing opportunities for industrial decarbonisation. Key discussions emphasised the necessity of project readiness, appropriate financing, and cross-sector collaboration to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. National initiatives in energy transition and carbon trading ecosystems are increasingly unlocking investment opportunities for climate action.

Indonesia's Complex Relationship with AI

Indonesian society is rapidly embracing artificial intelligence, with over 81% internet penetration and 180 million social media users driving widespread adoption of tools like ChatGPT for work and study. However, the government and academics warn of risks including AI-generated disinformation and cognitive dependency, highlighting the dual-edged nature of this technological integration.

Indonesia's minister urges public to see keris beyond mysticism

Indonesian Minister Fadli emphasises the cultural, historical, and artistic significance of keris, urging the public to move beyond mystical perceptions through education and digital outreach. The government has designated April 19 as National Keris Day since 2025, and UNESCO has recognised keris as intangible cultural heritage, reflecting ongoing efforts to preserve Indonesia's traditional heritage.

Shocking Murder of Elderly Couple in Sumbawa as Police Hunt Suspect

An elderly couple in Sumbawa, NTB, was found dead with blood in their home following a suspected assault, prompting a police manhunt. Initial investigations suggest a possible botched burglary, with witnesses reporting the suspect cleaning bloodstains before fleeing. Authorities have detained witnesses for questioning and are intensively searching for the identified suspect.

Reassessing the Role of CSR: Shifting from Charitable to Human Capital Investment

Indonesian corporations are increasingly shifting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) from short-term charity to long-term human capital investment, aligning with legal requirements and Social Return on Investment (SROI) principles. Initiatives such as TBIG's vocational education programmes and Batik House in Pekalongan demonstrate a move towards sustainable empowerment, focusing on skills development and inclusive employment. This strategic change aims to create measurable social impact rather than superficial gestures.

Preparing for the Peak of Hajj, Hajj Pilgrimage Administration Inspects Pilgrim Tent Facilities in Mina

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah conducted direct inspections of accommodation facilities and pilgrim access routes at tent sites in Mina, Mecca, to ensure preparations are complete for the peak pilgrimage season. Hajj officials, including Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak, verified that facilities and pathways to the Jamarat stoning site are ready to accommodate Indonesian pilgrims safely and comfortably.

Police Seize 200 Mobile Phones from Robbery Suspects; Investigation Focuses on Alleged Large Criminal Syndicate

Indonesian police have seized nearly 200 mobile phones from suspects allegedly involved in robberies across the Jakarta and Bogor metropolitan area, which are now undergoing digital forensic analysis. Police authorities are investigating whether the suspects are part of a larger criminal syndicate, with commitments to both pursue enforcement against perpetrators and conduct preventive patrols across the region.

Bulog absorbs 8,700 tonnes of farmer rice in Central Sulawesi through May 2026

State-owned logistics company Bulog has absorbed 8,700 tonnes of rice from farmers in Central Sulawesi (Sulteng) through May 2026, equalling the entire 2025 annual intake. The company aims to reach its 11,300-tonne target by June 2026 through strengthened partnerships with farmers and milling businesses across districts including Donggala, Parigi Moutong, and Luwuk. The initiative is intended to bolster government food reserves, stabilise rice supply and prices, and support national food self-sufficiency.

Megawati Weeps Watching Documentary on Indigenous Rights, Highlights Forest and Palm Oil Destruction

Indonesia's fifth president and BRIN chair Megawati Soekarnoputri expressed deep emotion whilst viewing the documentary "Pesta Babi," which focuses on South Papuan indigenous communities affected by large-scale industrial and agricultural projects. She criticised extractive approaches to natural resource management, emphasising the need to respect indigenous law, local rights, and strengthen Indonesia's maritime sovereignty through research, innovation, and long-term national development planning rooted in Pancasila principles.

East Nusra Weekly: Student Shot Dead by Friend—Temporary Employee Dies from Rabies

A tragic incident in Southwest Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara claimed the life of 24-year-old university student Mario Marselina Kura, who was fatally shot in the chest by his friend with an air rifle during what was meant as a joke. The week also saw the death of a civil servant bitten by a rabid dog, and two lecturers at Mataram University suspended following sexual harassment allegations.

ASEAN-India Bazaar 2026: Strengthening Cross-National Friendship Through Arts and Creative Economy

The ASEAN-India Bazaar 2026, organised by Indoindians in collaboration with the Indian Mission to ASEAN, successfully brought together over 3,000 visitors and more than 150 exhibitors showcasing handicrafts, designer fashion, jewellery and wellness products at The Westin Hotel in Jakarta. The event served as a strategic platform to strengthen people-to-people relations between India and Southeast Asian nations through cultural performances, interactive activities, and authentic culinary offerings. Organisers emphasised the event's role in deepening the historically rooted relationship between India and Southeast Asia amid current geopolitical challenges.

Pertamina and ERIA collaborate to support energy transition

Pertamina, Indonesia's state-owned oil and gas company, has entered into a strategic collaboration with the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) to support the government's programmes for national energy independence and energy transition. The partnership, implemented through Pertamina's Energy Institute (PEI), will encompass policy and economic analysis in the energy sector alongside capacity building and knowledge exchange, positioning Pertamina strategically in the regional energy transition landscape.

Trump Confident US and Iran Deal Imminent, Strait of Hormuz to Open Without Tariffs

US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that a comprehensive agreement with Iran is close to finalisation, with key provisions including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without tolls and Iran's agreement to clear naval mines. The proposed 60-day memorandum of understanding would involve the US lifting its blockade on Iranian ports and granting sanctions relief to allow Iran to sell oil freely, whilst Iran commits to nuclear programme limitations and allowing global shipping to resume through the strategic waterway. The deal also reportedly encompasses an end to the Israel-Hizbullah conflict in Lebanon and would provide relief to global oil markets whilst maintaining US military presence in the region pending final agreement.

Criminal Law Expert Commends Agriculture Minister Amran's Decisive Action Against Food Mafia as Rightful and Pro-People

Criminal law experts have praised Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman's firm measures against food mafia practices, including crackdowns on rice adulteration, counterfeit fertilisers, and cooking oil manipulation, characterising them as rightful protection of farmers and consumers. The initiatives, which include internal government purges and coordinated law enforcement action, have been assessed as an important demonstration of state commitment to transparent food governance and protection of national food security. Experts argue such practices constitute extraordinary crimes requiring maximum criminal penalties due to their widespread impact on the general population.

Gold ETFs' Stock-Like Flexibility Fuels Asia Investment Trend

Indonesia is set to launch gold ETFs on its stock exchange as part of a broader Asian trend where these instruments are driving record global demand. Data shows Asia's share of gold ETF holdings has surged from 2.67% in 2019 to over 10% by 2026, with China, Japan, and India leading the shift from physical to financial gold ownership. Experts attribute this to efficient, accessible investment exposure without physical storage challenges.

Commission VII: Local Community Involvement Realises Sustainable Tourism

Commission VII Deputy Chairperson Chusnunia emphasises that achieving sustainable tourism in Indonesia requires active involvement of local communities in destination management to balance economic, social, cultural and environmental impacts. She highlights successful examples such as Penglipuran Village in Bali and international models like Hakuba in Japan, noting that genuine community engagement transforms locals from objects of tourism into subjects of change whilst strengthening SMEs and creative economy sectors. Effective coordination between central government, regional authorities, tourism operators and stakeholders is essential for developing competitive, quality tourism destinations that respond to changing tourist preferences towards sustainable quality experiences.

Former Terrorism Inmate at Sentul Prison Becomes Poultry Processing Entrepreneur

Jamaludin, a former terrorism inmate at Lapas Sentul prison who was involved in a 2022 attempt to breach Istana Merdeka, has successfully established a poultry processing business called Chicken Jepun after his sentence was reduced from four years to two years and two months for good behaviour. The business now supplies 50 restaurants and cafés across Jabodetabek, has entered approximately 17 central kitchens, and has created employment for 13 staff members with plans to expand further.

Elderly man stabs ex-wife at child’s wedding reception in North Jakarta

An elderly man stabbed his ex-wife during his child’s wedding reception in North Jakarta, with police citing revenge as the suspected motive. The suspect, armed with a pre-planned knife, attacked the victim on stage before being apprehended with evidence. Authorities are conducting further investigations into the incident.

Amazon Plans $33 Billion Investment in Southeast Asia's AI and Cloud Infrastructure

Amazon has announced plans to invest over $33 billion in Southeast Asia's cloud and AI infrastructure by 2039, expected to contribute $64 billion to the region's GDP and support over 56,000 jobs annually. The investment aligns with ASEAN's projected $560 billion digital economy by 2030, with companies across Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore already leveraging AWS for enhanced digital transformation.

Indonesia Stock Exchange Weekly Report: Composite Index Falls 8.3 Per Cent

Indonesia's Composite Stock Index (IHSG) declined 8.35 per cent during the week of 18–22 May 2026, closing at 6,162.04 compared with 6,723.32 the previous week, whilst market capitalisation fell to Rp 10.635 trillion from Rp 11.825 trillion. Despite the index decline, average daily transaction values increased 15.68 per cent to Rp 21.77 trillion and trading volumes rose 2.53 per cent, though foreign investors recorded net sales of Rp 309.52 billion on the final trading day and outflows of Rp 41.63 trillion throughout 2026. The exchange also recorded new listings including sukuk and bonds from TBS Energi Utama, Samudera Indonesia, and Energi Mega Persada.

Missing Subsidised Fuel QR Code? Here's How to Re-register

Pertamina has addressed recurring complaints from subsidised fuel users who experience the disappearance of MyPertamina QR codes during petrol station transactions. The company attributes the issue to periodic system maintenance, data verification, and incomplete information in the database, and advises affected users to contact Call Centre 135 to verify and re-register their details. Users seeking to reactivate their subsidised fuel codes must submit clear photocopies of their identity card, vehicle registration documents, and photographs of their vehicle with visible registration plates.

Climate Change: Indonesian Tuna Fishermen Need Fishing Technology

Indonesian tuna fishing industry leaders identify certification compliance, quality improvement, and sustainability as key challenges to boost global competitiveness. The Association of Pole and Line and Handline Fishery Indonesia (AP2HI) calls for government support in providing affordable fuel and investment in cooling systems, solar-powered ice factories, and fishing technology transformation to adapt to climate-driven changes in ocean conditions and fish migration patterns.

Indonesia Reduces US Dollar Reliance as Local Currency Transactions Reach Rp 400 Trillion

Indonesia's efforts to reduce dependence on the US dollar are yielding results, with Local Currency Transaction (LCT) volumes reaching USD 22.61 billion (approximately Rp 400.19 trillion) during January-April 2026, representing a 309 per cent year-on-year increase. Bank Indonesia attributes the growth to increased awareness among trading partners of the efficiency gains from bilateral transactions using domestic currencies, with LCT frameworks currently operational with Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, China, South Korea and Singapore, and expansion discussions underway with India and Saudi Arabia.

Indonesia and Fuzhou agree strategic cooperation deals spanning e-bikes, AI and healthcare

Indonesia and China's Fuzhou city have signed 11 major cooperation projects worth billions under the "Two Countries, Twin Parks" framework, covering electric vehicle manufacturing, artificial intelligence, healthcare, and digital economy initiatives. The framework, personally supported by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indonesia's leadership, aims to integrate supply chains, facilitate cross-border investment, and accelerate downstream industrial development across strategic sectors including renewables, biopharmaceuticals, and e-commerce.

BRIN studies tempeh and probiotics for healthy aging in post-menopausal women

Indonesia's BRIN research centre is investigating nutritional interventions using fermented soybean products like tempeh combined with probiotics and calcium to address bone health and gut microbiota issues in post-menopausal women. Preliminary findings suggest the combination may support bone cell formation and improve calcium status, though researchers emphasise broader validation is needed before public recommendations can be made. The research aims to develop local food-based strategies to improve health outcomes as Indonesia's elderly population grows.

Two Shop Employees Die in Suspected Generator Fume Poisoning During North Sumatra Blackout

Two mobile phone accessory shop employees were found dead in a shop-house in Batubara District, North Sumatra, on Saturday, suspected to have died from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by a generator being used during a widespread blackout that affected the entire region on Friday. The blackout was triggered by severe weather damaging a 275 kV transmission line in Jambi Province, which disrupted the power supply across Sumatra, whilst two other employees at the location were found unconscious and hospitalised for treatment.

Police Arrest 3 Teenagers Preparing for Street Brawl in Central Jakarta, 2 Sharp Weapons Seized

Police arrested three teenagers suspected of planning a street brawl in Kampung Tanah Tinggi, Central Jakarta, during early morning hours on 24 May 2026, seizing two sharp weapons and a motorcycle. The arrests were made during large-scale patrols aimed at preventing public order disturbances across Central Jakarta's high-risk areas. Local police commanders appealed to parents and the public to increase supervision of young people's nighttime activities and report security threats to help prevent gang violence and youth crime.

Three Tonnes of Pangolin Scales Destined for Cambodia Seized; One Suspect Detained

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has arrested a suspect for attempting to smuggle 3,053 kilogrammes of pangolin scales to Cambodia through falsified export documents at Tanjung Priok Port in Jakarta. The investigation reveals a sophisticated smuggling network involving document fraud, warehouse storage, and the use of legitimate logistics channels to disguise protected wildlife parts as legal commodities such as sea cucumber and dried food products. The case highlights evolving smuggling patterns and underscores the Indonesian government's commitment to combating illegal wildlife trade through coordinated international law enforcement efforts, including cooperation via Interpol.

IPB University Renames Faculty of Human Ecology and Launches New Degree Programmes

IPB University has renamed its Faculty of Human Ecology (FEMA) to the Faculty of Social Sciences and Human Ecology (FISEMA) as part of an institutional and academic transformation. The restructuring includes the immediate launch of two new undergraduate programmes—Sociology and Human Geography—with plans to introduce additional programmes such as Consumer Studies, Psychology, Political Science, International Relations, Anthropology, Law, and Public Policy by 2031, all with a distinctive focus on agromaritim communities and rural transformation.

Food Safety Standards Need Strengthening

The Association of Free Nutritious Meal Caterers and Managers (APPMBGI) is urging strengthened governance of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, emphasising the critical need for enhanced food safety standards and comprehensive programme evaluation. The association's chairman called for stricter sanitisation oversight, empowerment of schools to reject unsafe food, and greater transparency in investigations and corrective measures to restore public trust in the programme.

Trump's Attack on China Becomes a Double-Edged Sword, the US Faces Its Own Challenges

The Trump administration's strict controls on AI chip exports to China, initially aimed at containing Beijing's technological advancement, have backfired by forcing China to develop its own domestic AI chip industry and reduce reliance on US technology. In response, the Trump administration is now launching a new export financing programme through the US Export-Import Bank to encourage foreign companies to purchase American AI equipment, as the US seeks to maintain its competitive edge in the global AI race against China.

OJK: Student Savings Reach IDR 29.13 Trillion in Q1 2026

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) reported that student savings accounts reached IDR 29.13 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, comprising 59.03 million accounts and demonstrating positive progress in Indonesia's financial inclusion. The growth aligns with the implementation of the One Account One Student (Kejar) programme, which has achieved 88.36 per cent completion, with student account numbers growing 1.25 per cent year-on-year. The authority notes that whilst there are short-term fluctuations in nominal savings, the overall trend remains positive and reflects the dynamic nature of student savings accounts.

Chairul Tanjung and Anggito Abimanyu Present Scholarships to UGM

Chairul Tanjung, Founder and Chairman of CT Corp, and Anggito Abimanyu, Head of the Deposit Insurance Agency (LPS), presented scholarship funds collected from the Jogja Run D-City 2026 event to Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). The event raised IDR 805.1 million, which will be matched to IDR 1 billion by the LPS to support UGM students in completing their studies.

Ahead of Eid al-Adha, Passengers Urged to Choose Buses that Pass Safety Checks

Ahead of the Eid al-Adha holiday period in May-June 2026, Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation is implementing enhanced safety measures for intercity buses, including mandatory ramp checks at 115 major terminals. The public is urged to select buses displaying ramp check stickers and to verify vehicle safety compliance using the Mitra Darat application before travelling during the anticipated peak travel periods.

BULOG Strengthens Campus Collaboration to Support Food Self-Sufficiency

BULOG convened university representatives from across Bandung for a focus group discussion on campuses' role in achieving sustainable food self-sufficiency and supporting government food reserves. The state logistics agency highlighted Indonesia's ranking as the world's second-largest rice producer and revealed record rice stocks of 5.36 million tonnes, whilst calling for greater academic and youth participation in building national food security through innovation, research, and public literacy.

Motive Behind Motorcycle Gang Attack on Riders in Tangerang: Offended by Victim's Stare

Police have arrested three members of a motorcycle gang who attacked two riders on the Taman Cibodas Flyover in Tangerang, revealing the assault was triggered by what the perpetrators perceived as a sharp stare from one of the victims. The attack resulted in serious injuries to both victims, with one sustaining six stab wounds to the back and thighs whilst the other required intensive hospital care. Police vow to continue pursuing gang members involved in street violence and urge parents to supervise their children more closely to prevent involvement in criminal activity.

Western Pilgrims Flock to Makkah Undeterred by Middle East Tensions

Despite escalating tensions between the United States and Iran centred on Saudi Arabia and surrounding regions, Muslim pilgrims from Western nations are proceeding with the hajj pilgrimage this year, refusing to heed government travel warnings. Over one million pilgrims have gathered in the holy city ahead of the main rituals beginning on Tuesday, with Western Muslims expressing unwavering faith and determination to fulfil the Islamic obligation regardless of geopolitical risks.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs hopes every issue in highland Papua is resolved properly

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Ribka Haluk has urged communities in Papua Pegunungan (highland Papua) to resolve disputes through customary and religious leaders rather than escalating them to government level. The minister emphasised the importance of tribal unity and intellectual leadership in the region, calling for an end to tribal conflicts and encouraging inclusive community participation in regional development under the current provincial leadership.

Indonesian troops boost anti-drone border surveillance

The Indonesian Army has conducted specialized training for border security personnel in West Kalimantan to strengthen counter-drone surveillance capabilities and combat evolving technology-based threats along the Indonesia-Malaysia frontier. The initiative involves 24 core task force members trained in early detection, aerial threat identification, and counter-drone measures to address security challenges including smuggling, illegal crossings, and potential espionage operations. The programme reflects broader efforts to modernize border security systems and protect national sovereignty through integrated aerial monitoring methods across land and maritime boundaries.

Financial Services Authority Approves Consolidation of 57 Rural Banks and Islamic Rural Banks

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved the consolidation of 57 rural banks (BPR) and Islamic rural banks (BPRS) into 18 merged entities throughout 2026 to strengthen industry resilience and operational efficiency. The consolidation, particularly targeting banks under the same controlling shareholder, is aimed at improving capitalisation, competitiveness, and contributing to regional economic development in accordance with the 2023-2027 BPR/BPRS Development Roadmap.

Breaking News: US-Iran Deal in Sight, Hormuz Strait to Open—Ceasefire Extended

The United States and Iran are reported to be approaching a major agreement aimed at easing Middle Eastern tensions, featuring a 60-day ceasefire extension, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for international shipping, and sanctions relief allowing Iran to resume oil sales globally. The draft agreement also addresses Iran's nuclear programme, with Tehran committing not to pursue nuclear weapons and agreeing to negotiate uranium enrichment cessation and dismantling high-level enrichment stockpiles. Such an accord would represent the most significant diplomatic development since the US-Israel-Iran conflict erupted in February, with major implications for global energy markets and regional stability.

Sundanese Day and the Potential Marginalisation of West Javanese Peripheral Cultures

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has enacted Provincial Regulation No. 13 of 2026 establishing an annual Sundanese Day, culminating in the Kirab Budaya Milangkala cultural procession in Bandung. However, the columnist argues that this formalisation risks marginalising the distinct cultures of West Java's peripheral regions, such as Dermayu, Cirebon, and Melayu-Betawi communities in Bekasi, despite the governor previously acknowledging the province's cultural complexity during his election campaign.

Protecting Sea Turtles: New Sea Turtle Shelter Opens in Hainan, China

A new 388 square-metre Sea Turtle Shelter has opened at the Atlantis Sanya hotel on World Turtle Day (23 May), establishing a comprehensive full-cycle turtle protection system that encompasses rehabilitation, breeding, and release programmes. Since 2018, Atlantis Sanya has rescued 42 wild sea turtles and successfully released 12 rehabilitated turtles back into the sea, marking significant progress in marine conservation efforts.

20 Years After Yogyakarta Earthquake: Survivors' Market Demonstrates Economic Recovery

A Survivors' Market was held on 22-23 May at Candi Prambanan as part of the 20th commemoration of the devastating 2006 Yogyakarta earthquake, showcasing 20 micro and small enterprises (MSMEs) run by earthquake survivors offering local food, beverages, and handicrafts. The event, organised by Indonesia's Ministry of Human Development and Culture, aims to celebrate the economic resilience and recovery of disaster survivors whilst promoting sustainable growth and community solidarity in disaster preparedness.

Rupiah Weakness: UD Trucks Prepares Price Increase

The weakening of the Indonesian rupiah against the US dollar is prompting UD Trucks to prepare for a price increase on its truck products. The company's CEO Bambang Widjanarko indicated that price adjustments of approximately 3-4 per cent are anticipated, though the company is negotiating with suppliers to keep increases below this level to protect market share in an unstable market environment.

Police Arrest Motorcycle Gang Members for Slashing Attack on Two Riders at Cibodas Flyover, Tangerang

Police arrested three members of a motorcycle gang suspected of brutally attacking two motorcyclists with machetes on Cibodas Flyover in Tangerang on 13 May 2026. The three suspects were identified through CCTV footage and investigation, with authorities recovering a motorcycle, machete, and other evidence. One victim sustained six stab wounds to the back and thigh, whilst the other suffered serious injuries requiring intensive hospital care.

Residents Welcome Passport Services at HI CFD: Assisting Busy Weekday Workers

The Immigration Office has begun offering passport processing services during the Car Free Day (CFD) event at Bundaran HI in Jakarta, providing convenient weekend alternatives for residents unable to visit during regular working hours. Citizens interviewed, including 26-year-old Dimas and 22-year-old student Mikaela, praised the initiative for its efficiency, simplified documentation requirements, and expanded accessibility to the service.

Sanur Bali Becomes Medical Aesthetics Tourism Destination with South Korean Plastic Surgeons

The Solitaire, a world-class plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine facility, has officially launched in Indonesia's Sanur Health Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Bali, positioning the nation as a regional medical aesthetics hub. The integrated, globally-standardised facility brings together curated clinics and specialists from over 380 international medical facilities, including renowned surgeons from Brazil and leading clinics from South Korea, offering services ranging from cosmetic surgery to regenerative medicine. The government initiative aims to strengthen Indonesia's national economy whilst retaining domestic healthcare expenditure that would otherwise flow overseas.

13 People Arrested for Attempting Illegal Entry to Mecca and Hajj Fraud

Saudi Arabian Hajj Security Forces arrested 13 people—including 12 expatriates and one Saudi citizen—for violations including illegal entry to Mecca and fraudulent hajj services. The arrests occurred across three separate incidents, with offenders attempting unauthorised entry and operating fake hajj service schemes on social media. Indonesian immigration authorities also detained 13 Indonesian nationals suspected of attempting to perform hajj through non-procedural means.

Residents in Aceh and West Sumatra Rely on Candles for Lighting Amid Power Cuts

Widespread rolling blackouts continue to affect parts of Aceh and West Sumatra following disruptions to the 275 kV extra-high voltage transmission line system across Sumatra on 23 May 2026. Residents and merchants are resorting to traditional lamps and candles to maintain their daily activities during the rotating outages.

Elderly Couple Found Dead in Sumbawa; Suspect Allegedly Killed by Grandson's Friend

An elderly couple, Rahman Nur (64) and Siti Hajar (62), were found dead in their home in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara on Sunday morning, allegedly murdered by a friend of their grandson. Police have detained the grandson and another witness for questioning whilst launching a manhunt for the primary suspect, identified as H, who was allegedly found washing blood from his clothing at the time of discovery.

TNI Deploys Troops to Hunt Armed Robbers; Does This Align with Military Remit?

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) have deployed personnel from the Jakarta Military Command, including combat units, to support police operations in hunting armed robbers (begal) terrorising Jakarta and its surroundings. However, military analyst Mufti Makarim contends that criminal investigation falls outside the TNI's constitutional remit and legal jurisdiction, raising questions about accountability and proper delegation of law enforcement duties.

Hyundai recalls Elantra Hybrid in the US over software issue

Hyundai has issued a recall for 54,337 Elantra Hybrid units (model years 2024–2026) in the United States due to potential power control unit failures that could trigger emergency mode or thermal damage. Affected owners will receive notification letters in July with instructions to visit authorised Hyundai dealers for a software update, which owners can initiate immediately by checking their vehicle identification number on Hyundai's website.

KEK Industropolis Batang Genjot Investasi Teknologi Tinggi dari Jepang - Warta Ekonomi

KEK Industropolis Batang is actively pursuing high-tech investments from Japan through participation in a Tokyo business forum, targeting sectors such as electric vehicles, medical devices, and renewable energy. The initiative supports Indonesia's target of attracting $814.4 billion in new investments over the next five years to achieve 7-8% economic growth for the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision, backed by Japanese FDI of $3.12 billion in 2025. The special economic zone emphasises integrated infrastructure and policy incentives to enhance global investor competitiveness.

The 10 Traffic Violations Targeted by Electronic Ticketing System

Indonesia's National Police Traffic Corps has implemented an Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement (ETLE) system to automatically detect and penalise 10 categories of traffic violations using CCTV cameras at designated road points. Vehicle owners have eight days from the violation date to confirm their identity through the official ETLE website or the Law Enforcement Subdirectorate office, with failure to respond resulting in temporary blocking of vehicle registration documents.

High Aeroplane Ticket Prices Damaging South Sulawesi Tourism Sector

Rising aeroplane ticket prices and weakening rupiah exchange rates are significantly reducing tourist arrivals and pressuring South Sulawesi's tourism industry, with impacts extending across hotels, restaurants, and small businesses. Industry leaders attribute increased ticket costs to rising operational expenses driven by expensive imported components, fuel costs, and currency depreciation, whilst calling on the government to stabilise the economy and support tourism through stronger flight connectivity and domestic travel promotion.

South Sumatra Police Chief Orders Firm Action Against Street Robbers, Urges Public to Report via 110

The Chief of South Sumatra Regional Police has instructed all police units to take firm, measured action against street robbers (begal) and has called on the public to report crimes through the 24-hour emergency hotline 110. The initiative aligns with the National Police Chief's precision policy and President Prabowo's priority programme to maintain national stability and support economic activity.

AI used to "resurrect" voices of deceased pilots

The US National Transportation Safety Board temporarily closed access to its public docket system after discovering that voices of pilots killed in a UPS Airlines crash had been reconstructed using artificial intelligence and shared online. Members of the public utilised AI tools to reconstruct cockpit audio from spectrograms and publicly available transcripts published in the NTSB's investigation database, prompting the agency to review and restrict access to 42 ongoing investigations including the UPS Flight 2976 case.

5,950 Indonesian Nationals Receive Overstay Fine Waiver from Cambodia

The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh has secured approval from the Cambodian Government to waive overstay fines for 5,950 Indonesian nationals (WNI) involved in online fraud syndicates. A total of 9,537 WNI sought assistance from the embassy between mid-January and 22 May 2026, with 3,630 already facilitated to return to Indonesia, while the Cambodian government has set a deadline of 15 June 2026 for fine-waived WNI to depart.

KEK Industropolis Batang Dorong Kemitraan RI-Jepang Pecut Investasi High-Tech

KEK Industropolis Batang is advancing Indonesia-Japan economic collaboration by showcasing high-tech investment opportunities at the 2026 Investment Business Forum, targeting sectors like electric vehicles and renewable energy. The initiative includes benchmarking Japan’s Tsukuba Science City to develop a sustainable industrial hub integrating residential and research facilities. Indonesian officials highlighted strong Japanese investment growth and structural reforms to attract further global capital.

OJK Strengthens Investment Manager Licensing Requirements

Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) has introduced stricter licensing and capital requirements for securities companies and investment managers through two new regulations. The measures aim to enhance market resilience, governance, and investor protection amid growing financial complexity and digitalisation. The regulations categorise firms into tiers with specific capital thresholds and mandate minimum assets under management to strengthen the national financial system.

Nearly 1.2 Billion People Worldwide Experience Mental Disorders, Young Adults Most Affected

A new study published in The Lancet reveals that nearly 1.2 billion people globally lived with mental disorders in 2023, with anxiety and depression being the most prevalent conditions. Global mental disorder cases have increased by 95.5 per cent since 1990, with anxiety rising 158 per cent and depression increasing 131 per cent over the past three decades, marking a significant public health crisis that has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Government Opens Opportunities for Rubber Farmers to Receive Fertiliser Subsidies

The Indonesian Government, through the Ministry of Transmigration, is committed to expanding fertiliser subsidy schemes to include rubber commodities, which have previously been excluded. With approximately 2.1 million smallholder rubber farming families concentrated in Sumatra and Kalimantan—mostly in transmigration areas—the initiative aims to boost productivity through subsidy programmes and replanting efforts to replace ageing rubber trees.

IHSG Falls 8.35 Percent in a Week; Stocks of Prajogo Pangestu and Sinar Mas Group Weigh Down Index

Indonesia's benchmark IHSG index fell 8.35 percent during the week of 18-22 May 2026, declining 561.28 points to close at 6,162.05, whilst market capitalisation contracted approximately 10 percent to Rp 10.635 trillion. Major drags on the index included stocks affiliated with conglomerates such as PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa Tbk (Sinar Mas Group), PT Amman Mineral Internasional Tbk and mining-related equities, though foreign investors showed selective interest in mining counters despite net selling activity totalling Rp 1.06 trillion.

Over 16,000 Nutrition Service Units Obtain Food Safety Certification

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency reports that 16,046 Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) have obtained Hygiene and Sanitation Certification (SLHS), representing 55% of the 29,225 operational units nationwide. The government has implemented a tiered accreditation system in 2026 to strengthen food safety governance across the Free Nutritious Meal programme, with additional units undergoing certification processes.

Police Arrest Dealer of Illegal Tramadol and Trihexyphenidyl in Central Jakarta

Police in Central Jakarta arrested a man suspected of distributing illegal Schedule G controlled medications after receiving a public report through emergency services. Authorities seized hundreds of tablets of tramadol and trihexyphenidyl from the suspect, Soni Sanjaya, at a location in Tanah Abang, with investigations continuing into the source and distribution network of the illegal pharmaceuticals.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon Seeks to Repatriate Historic Krises from Overseas

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has announced that the Indonesian government is continuing efforts to repatriate historic krises (traditional Indonesian daggers) held in foreign countries, particularly those belonging to independence struggle figures such as Prince Diponegoro and Tuanku Imam Bonjol. The repatriation process involves provenance research to establish rightful ownership, with the Ministry focusing on retrieving items acquired as colonial spoils whilst respecting legitimate acquisitions held by foreign museums and institutions.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Accelerates Learning Digitalisation in Remote Regions

Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is pushing digital transformation in remote and frontier areas (3T regions) through deployment of professionals and scholarship alumni to provide technical support and digital education. Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka emphasised the importance of expanding modern learning technologies, including Interactive Digital Panels, to Papua and East Nusa Tenggara to bridge educational inequality and build skilled youth capable of competing globally.

Hasanuddin University Students Educated on Importance of Financial Literacy

BantuSaku, a financial services company, held an educational talk show on digital financial literacy for hundreds of students at Hasanuddin University's Faculty of Economics and Business, emphasising the importance of financial education for young people transitioning to economic independence. The initiative aims to help students make responsible financial decisions and wisely utilise digital financing services as they grow up alongside advancing financial technology.

Staring Incident Ends in Machete Attack in Tangerang, Three Arrested

Police in Tangerang, Banten have arrested three suspects accused of attacking teenagers with machetes following a staring incident on 13 May. The assailants allegedly felt offended after making eye contact with the victims and pursued them in an organised group attack, resulting in serious lacerations requiring intensive hospital care.

Directorate General of Immigration provides quota of 50 passport applications at Sudirman Car Free Day

The Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration has allocated a quota of 50 passport applicants for their Car Free Day (CFD) service at Sudirman in Central Jakarta on Sunday, May 2026. The quota is divided between 40 applications through the M-Paspor mobile application and 10 walk-in applicants, with the service offering polycarbonate passports at standard rates. This initiative represents a digital-based immigration service expansion programme aimed at serving working citizens who cannot access regular weekday service centres.

Brimob PMJ Breaks Up Illegal Street Racing in Bekasi, Three Teenagers Apprehended

Personnel from the Metro Jaya Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) apprehended three teenagers suspected of attempting illegal street racing in Bekasi's Jalan Siliwangi area during early morning patrols on 24 May 2026. The operation, which focused on high-risk locations across Bekasi, resulted in the seizure of a Honda Vario motorcycle, with the teenagers referred to Rawalumbu Police Station for further proceedings. The patrols are part of a preventive strategy to combat street racing, robbery, and gang violence that frequently disturb residents during late-night hours.

Immigration Opens Passport Service at Bundaran HI Car Free Day, Citizens Show Enthusiasm

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has launched a passport processing service at the car-free day event in Bundaran HI, Jakarta, limiting applications to 50 applicants to align with the Sunday programme's 10:00 AM closing time. The service operates identically to regular immigration offices, requiring citizens to register through the M-Paspor application beforehand, with completed passports available for collection or delivery at regional immigration offices.

Bekasi Regency Adjusts Infrastructure Project Cost Estimates Following Fuel Price Rise

Bekasi Regency in West Java is revising the estimated costs (HPS) for its infrastructure projects in response to rising non-subsidised fuel prices, which have triggered increased construction material costs. Officials consulted with the Ministry of Home Affairs and plan to adjust the regional budget next week to account for the price changes whilst maintaining project quality standards.

Ministry of Hajj: Dam Meat of Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims to be Distributed to Palestine

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah announced that the majority of ritual sacrifice (dam) meat from Indonesian hajj pilgrims this season will be distributed to Palestinian communities, in alignment with President Prabowo Subianto's policy priorities. As of mid-May 2026, over 126,000 pilgrims have registered their dam payment methods, with approximately 71,600 choosing to pay through the Saudi-based Adahi Project, marking a significant improvement in hajj governance compared to previous years.

Prabowo in Kebumen: Harvesting Prawns, Showcasing Achievements, and Addressing Leakages

President Prabowo Subianto visited Kebumen, Central Java, on Saturday to attend a prawn harvest at a regional aquaculture facility, accompanied by several cabinet ministers. The visit served to showcase government achievements in agricultural programmes whilst Prabowo reiterated his commitment to combating resource smuggling, pledging to halt the illegal exportation of Indonesia's natural resources that has been eroding foreign exchange earnings and promising that all wealth from natural resources would benefit the Indonesian population.

Warning: Middle-Aged Migraine Sufferers with Aura Face Elevated Stroke Risk

A new study published in the journal Neurology has found that individuals aged 40-49 who experience migraine with aura face a 73 per cent higher risk of stroke, though migraine without aura shows no such correlation. The research, conducted by University of Vermont's Dr Adam Sprouse Blum, extends previous findings on stroke risk in younger migraine sufferers to middle-aged and elderly populations, highlighting an important public health concern for this demographic.

Malang Police Investigate Firecracker Explosion at Home That Killed One Person

Police in Malang, East Java are investigating a firecracker explosion at a residential home in Jenggolo Village that killed the homeowner, identified as a 48-year-old man, on Saturday. Officers secured evidence including a bucket of firecrackers of various sizes from the scene, and are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion and the origin of the gunpowder. The victim sustained severe burns across multiple body parts and died approximately two hours after being admitted to hospital, with the family declining an autopsy.

Indonesia's free meal programme reaches 62.45 million people

Indonesia's flagship free meal programme (MBG) has expanded to cover 62.45 million beneficiaries across schoolchildren, infants, pregnant mothers, and teachers, operating through 29,225 kitchens and distributing over 8.3 billion meal portions since January 2025. The initiative has generated 1.29 million jobs and partnered with 142,387 suppliers, with emphasis on local businesses including MSMEs and cooperatives, thereby supporting regional economies and food self-sufficiency goals.

Foreign Currency Savings and Deposits Increase, OJK Deems Growth Reasonable

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports that foreign currency deposits and savings grew 10.87% year-on-year in April 2026, with foreign currency savings rising 23.21% and deposits climbing 22%. Despite the increase, OJK considers the growth reasonable, with foreign currency deposits maintaining a stable share of 15-16% of total third-party funds, bolstered by competitive interest rates offered by major banks as incentives for exporters.

29 New Flora Species in Indonesia Successfully Described Within a Year

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has successfully identified and scientifically described 29 new plant species between 2025 and early 2026, including varieties of Rafflesia, Begonia, Rhododendron, pitcher plants, and orchids from across the archipelago. The discoveries underscore Indonesia's vast and largely unexplored biodiversity potential, though BRIN warns that conservation efforts face mounting challenges from habitat loss, climate change, invasive species, and unsustainable resource exploitation. Since 1967, BRIN researchers and partners have collectively documented 1,583 new species, with 712 being flora species.

Expert Assesses B50 Biodiesel Blending as Means to Reduce Energy Import Dependence

An energy transition expert from the Bandung Institute of Technology argues that implementing B50 biodiesel blending (50 percent palm oil mixture) can reduce Indonesia's dependence on energy imports and shield the country from geopolitical energy crises. The expert proposes a phased energy transition roadmap spanning 2025–2060, beginning with energy diversification and stability, moving through renewable energy acceleration, and culminating in net-zero emissions by 2060, whilst acknowledging that fossil fuels will remain critical during the transition period.

2026 Holiday Trends Amid Uncertain Global Economy: Which Tourist Destinations Are in Demand?

Despite global economic volatility and rising fuel costs from Middle Eastern conflicts, consumer interest in travel remains robust, though travel patterns are shifting. Tourists are becoming more selective, preferring personalised experiences such as local culinary tourism, wellness retreats, and culturally-rooted adventures rather than mass tourism. The Indonesian Travel Agencies Association (ASTINDO) is facilitating industry collaboration through ANTX 2026 to develop innovative tourism products that cater to these emerging consumer preferences.

European Parliament Highlights Cases of Activists Andrie Yunus and Rosidi

The European Parliament has highlighted the acid attack cases against Andrie Yunus, a deputy coordinator at Indonesia's Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence, and environmental activist Muhammad Rosidi, calling on the Indonesian government to investigate the incidents and end impunity for human rights violators. The Parliament also expressed concerns about Indonesian policies expanding military authority over civilian sectors and draft legislation on disinformation and freedom of expression, whilst emphasising the deteriorating situation in Papua and West Papua.

Scrap Metal Yard and Residential Homes in Kalideres, West Jakarta Ravaged by Fire

A major fire broke out in the early morning of 24 May 2026 in Kalideres, West Jakarta, originating from a scrap metal yard and rapidly spreading to surrounding residential areas. The blaze consumed approximately 20 scrap collection stalls and an unknown number of houses, with 12 fire trucks deployed to control the flames. No deaths have been reported thus far, though the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Nine Indonesian Citizens Arrested by Israel Set to Arrive in Indonesia This Afternoon

Nine Indonesian nationals detained by Israeli forces during a humanitarian aid convoy operation are scheduled to arrive at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta on Sunday 24 May at 15:30 WIB. The detainees, including journalists and humanitarian workers who were captured when Israeli forces intercepted Global Sumud Flotilla vessels on 18 May, were released on 21 May and reported suffering inhumane treatment including physical violence.

Indonesia seeks return of historic keris from abroad

Indonesia's Culture Ministry is pursuing the repatriation of historic keris daggers taken abroad during the colonial era, prioritising artifacts suspected to have been seized as war booty or through colonial plunder. The effort forms part of a broader push to restore cultural sovereignty, with the government conducting provenance research with international partners including the Netherlands, whilst acknowledging that some legally acquired collections abroad may remain with foreign museums and institutions. Keris have been recognised by UNESCO as part of Indonesia's intangible cultural heritage since 2005 and have appeared in Indonesian art since the eighth century.

West Java Leads National Archives Awards 2026 in Recognition of Historical Legacy Preservation

West Java Provincial Government won two prestigious awards at the 2026 Archives Awards ceremony honouring the 55th National Archives Day, including the Best National Network Hub Award for the National Archives Information System and National Archives Information Network. Two regencies in West Java—Purwakarta and Bogor—also received similar honours, with Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan emphasising that archives serve as the civilisation's compass and must be carefully preserved as a record of historical memory.

Parliamentary Hajj Oversight Committee Urges Officials to Exercise Caution to Prevent Recurrence of Firdaus Case

Indonesia's Parliamentary Hajj Oversight Committee has expressed concern over the death of 72-year-old pilgrim Muhammad Firdaus, who went missing during the 2024 hajj pilgrimage and was found deceased in Mecca. Committee members have called for hajj officials to exercise greater vigilance in identifying elderly pilgrims who require supervision and to implement stricter protocols during high-density pilgrimage sites such as Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina to prevent similar incidents from recurring.

Chery and Lepas Open Integrated Dealership in BSD with Ultra Fast Charging

Chery Group Indonesia and PT Trimegah Auto Prima have officially opened an integrated Chery & Lepas dealership in BSD City, South Tangerang, marking an important milestone in the company's service network expansion. The facility features a 3S+ concept encompassing sales, service, spare parts and authorised body & paint services, alongside a 120 kW ultra-fast electric vehicle charging station available to the public. The dealership is equipped with 20 service bays capable of servicing approximately 50 vehicles daily and includes family-friendly amenities such as a prayer room, children's area, and refreshments area.

1,016 Boreholes and 208 Sanitation Units Completed; Kapalo Koto Temporary Housing Residents in West Sumatra Hope for Cleaner Water

The Government's Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force has completed 1,016 boreholes and 208 sanitation units across three disaster-affected provinces as part of post-flood recovery efforts, with West Sumatra achieving 136 of its 221 targeted boreholes. Residents of temporary housing (Huntara) in Kapalo Koto, Padang, report that whilst infrastructure is being deployed rapidly, the water produced initially contains high sediment levels, prompting concerns about skin health, particularly for children and the elderly. Community leaders emphasise that self-reliance efforts and proper maintenance coordination remain critical to sustaining water distribution systems whilst awaiting improved water quality.

African Health Body Warns 10 Countries of Ebola Outbreak Risk

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has warned 10 African nations of heightened risk from an Ebola outbreak following a surge in cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with the World Health Organisation raising alert status to "very high". The outbreak, declared on 15 May in Ituri Province, has resulted in at least 82 confirmed cases and seven confirmed deaths in the DRC, whilst Uganda has reported five confirmed cases. Both organisations are requesting over US$314 million in funding to support response efforts including vaccine research acceleration, cross-border coordination, and emergency stockpile deployment.

KNKT Reveals Cause of Train Collision between Commuter Train and Argo Bromo Intercity Train in Bekasi

Indonesia's National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) has revealed that a devastating train collision in Bekasi on 22 May 2026 resulted from multiple systemic failures, including a malfunctioning electric taxi becoming stuck on railway tracks and subsequent signalling failures. The first collision occurred when an electric taxi stuck in neutral gear was hit by a commuter train (KRL 5181B), followed minutes later by the intercity Argo Bromo Anggrek train striking a stationary KRL service train (PLB 5568A) from behind, killing dozens and injuring many others. The investigation identified signal system deficiencies, poor visibility of warning lights due to ambient lighting from nearby markets and residences, and slow inter-departmental communication between train control units as contributing factors.

Pertamina Clarifies Viral Claims of Pertalite Restrictions from 1 June 2026

Pertamina has dismissed as false viral claims that vehicles with engines above 1,400cc will be prohibited from purchasing subsidised Pertalite fuel from 1 June 2026. The state-owned energy company's corporate secretary emphasised that no such policy directive has been issued by the government or regulatory authorities, and that Pertamina will only implement energy policies following official government guidance.

National Awakening Becomes Momentum to Strengthen Commitment to Nutrition Fulfilment for the Nation

The Alliance of Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Foundation is leveraging National Awakening Day to reinforce commitment to improving public nutrition and welfare across Indonesia. The initiative establishes Nutrition Service Units across strategic locations, integrating micro and small enterprises into food supply chains whilst maintaining transparent governance and involving academic institutions to ensure quality standardisation. The programme aligns with constitutional mandates for inclusive economic development and positions nutrition investment as critical for building quality human resources.

The Story of Indonesia's President and the World Duped by the "Gold Mountain Hoax" of 53 Million Tonnes

The Bre-X mining scandal of the 1990s deceived Indonesia's President Suharto, senior government officials, and investors worldwide with claims of a 53 million-tonne gold deposit in East Kalimantan's Busang region. When the government mandated Freeport-McMoran to verify the findings in 1997, the company's geological tests revealed no gold present, whilst Bre-X's exploration director Michael de Guzman mysteriously disappeared, with investigators later discovering he had faked his own death and gone into hiding. The exposure of the fraud triggered a global financial crisis for investors and remains one of the largest mining hoaxes in history.

Non-Muslim Graduate from NTT Experiences Tolerance and Inclusivity at UMJ

Wilfridus Kado, a Christian graduate from East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) who completed a Master's degree in Educational Technology at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ), shares his experience of experiencing genuine tolerance and inclusivity at the Islamic-based institution. Despite minor cultural adaptation challenges regarding Islamic terminology, Wilfridus emphasises that UMJ demonstrated no discrimination, valuing academic integrity and intellectual contribution over religious background. His experience underscores how faith-based educational institutions in Indonesia can serve as inclusive spaces that foster interfaith dialogue and collective advancement of national education.

Dozens of scrap stalls and homes destroyed in fire in West Jakarta's Kalideres

A major fire broke out in the early hours of Sunday morning at a scrap metal collection yard on Permata Dalam Street in Tegal Alur, Kalideres, West Jakarta, destroying approximately 20 stalls and several nearby residential homes. The rapid spread was fuelled by the abundance of flammable materials at the site, requiring twelve fire trucks and ongoing emergency response efforts to contain the blaze; no deaths have been reported, though the cause and full extent of damage remain under investigation.

Ngurah Rai Immigration Delays Departure of 13 Indonesian Citizens Suspected of Unauthorised Hajj Travel

Ngurah Rai Immigration Office in Bali delayed the departure of 13 Indonesian citizens on Friday (22 May) who were suspected of planning unauthorised hajj travel to Dubai. Immigration officers detected irregularities during routine checks on passengers heading to Kuala Lumpur, including inconsistent travel purposes, missing visas, and WhatsApp communications from a group named "Hebat Haji 2026" discussing unofficial hajj arrangements. The immigration authority has pledged to intensify surveillance against unauthorised pilgrimages and urged citizens to use official channels for hajj pilgrimages.

Jakarta authorities warn residents against panic buying as food prices rise

Jakarta's Special Staff for Communications has urged residents to avoid panic buying amid rising food prices ahead of Eid al-Adha, citing increased demand and heavy rainfall affecting agricultural production. The provincial government is coordinating with regional inflation control teams and the National Food Agency to stabilise prices through market monitoring, regulated distribution, and subsidised food programmes for lower-income households.

Doomscrolling Said to Reduce Happiness, Here's Expert Explanation

Research from the World Happiness Report at Oxford University's Wellbeing Research Centre has found that excessive social media use correlates with decreased mental wellbeing, particularly among young people under 25 in Western countries. Experts emphasise that while moderate social media use (around one hour daily) can be beneficial for maintaining connections, prolonged doomscrolling—endless consumption of short-form content without purpose—significantly diminishes mental wellbeing, especially as social media platforms are deliberately designed to encourage extended engagement.

Kalista Faces Commercial EV Challenges: Solutions to Accelerate Adoption

Kalista, an Indonesian transportation and technology company focused on commercial electric vehicle ecosystems, is addressing six key challenges hindering EV adoption through end-to-end solutions and business models such as Fleet-as-a-Service. The company notes that commercial EV penetration has risen from below 1 per cent four years ago, with emerging technologies, competitive pricing, and diverse product specifications now making electric vehicles a viable option for sustainable business operations.

Valbury and Finex top Bappebti's fresh broker ratings as Indonesia tightens financial oversight

Indonesia's Commodity Futures Trading Regulatory Agency (Bappebti) has released its first-quarter 2026 broker ratings, naming seven elite brokerages—including PT Valbury Asia Futures and PT Finex Bisnis Solusi Futures—that have met strict operational and compliance standards. The agency is implementing a rigorous, three-pronged algorithmic assessment framework that evaluates financial integrity, AML compliance, and customer service whilst penalising firms with regulatory breaches, marking a significant shift towards stronger institutional-grade supervision of the commodity trading sector.

Global Index Purge: FTSE Russell Demotes Energy Giant DSSA, Compounding Institutional Shift for Indonesian Equities

FTSE Russell's May 2026 index restructuring has removed Indonesian energy conglomerate PT Dian Swastatika Sentosa Tbk (DSSA) from its Large Cap Index and excluded three micro-cap listings, alongside MSCI's earlier removal of six major Indonesian corporations. The aggressive rebalancing, effective June 22, 2026, signals tightening liquidity standards for Indonesian equities and risks triggering forced capital outflows from passive global funds, though eleven major Indonesian firms including the nation's banking trio retained their benchmark positions.

FTSE Russell Removes Four Indonesian Shares; Foreign Funds Worth Rp 4 Trillion Flee Stock Exchange

FTSE Russell's decision to remove four Indonesian shares from its Global Equity Index Series has triggered a foreign capital outflow of approximately Rp 4 trillion from the domestic stock market, contributing to eight consecutive days of weakness in the Jakarta Composite Index. The outflow follows early repositioning by investment managers using FTSE as a benchmark for Exchange-Traded Funds, though analysts expect the impact to be more limited than previous MSCI index exclusions given FTSE's smaller asset base.

Disaster Looms as Himalayan Mountain City Begins to Sink

Shimla, a popular hill station in India's Himalayan region, faces severe physical strain from uncontrolled development over decades, with roads, drainage systems, and infrastructure overwhelmed by growing traffic and tourism. The city and other Himalayan towns are experiencing alarming signs of ground instability, including tree roots surfacing and building cracks, whilst extreme weather events triggered by climate change have intensified landslides and flash floods, causing over 10,500 deaths in the region in the past decade.

KEK Industropolis Batang Promotes Strategic Partnership between Indonesia and Japan to Accelerate High-Tech Investment

KEK Industropolis Batang has strengthened Indonesia-Japan strategic partnerships via a Tokyo investment forum focused on high-tech sectors including electric vehicles and renewable energy. The initiative supports President Prabowo’s Golden Indonesia 2045 goal of 7-8% economic growth, requiring $814.4 billion in new investments over five years. Indonesian officials emphasised the zone's integrated infrastructure and regulatory incentives as competitive advantages for Japanese investors.

Management Studies Programme at FEB Unisba and PPKM Strengthen Business Ethics and Halal Ecosystem for MSMEs

The Management Studies Programme at Universitas Islam Bandung's Faculty of Economics and Business held a two-day community service initiative with the Perkumpulan Pengusaha Karsa Mandiri on 21-22 May 2026, focusing on business ethics and halal ecosystem development for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The programme covered topics including ethical business practices, legal cooperation agreements, halal certification, and ecosystem development to strengthen MSME competitiveness and consumer trust in the national halal market.

Brutal Crimes: Four Men Fatally Stab Friend and Woman Struck by Three Vehicles

Four men, including two minors, have been arrested for the premeditated murder and robbery of a motorcycle wash employee in Badung, Bali, whose body was discovered buried in a vacant lot. The brutal killing, which occurred on 7 May 2026, involved multiple forms of violence including beatings, stabbings, and throat-slashing, with the perpetrators attempting to sell the victim's motorcycle and mobile phone to finance their planned division of proceeds. In separate incidents, Bali United football club faces potential enhanced sanctions including potential stadium tribune closure after supporters ignited flares and fireworks during a match, whilst a 42-year-old woman from East Java was fatally struck by three vehicles in a multi-vehicle collision in Denpasar.

France bans Israeli security chief who assaulted humanitarian flotilla activists

France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has barred Israeli national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering French territory following reports of violence against European and French activists detained from the Global Sumud Flotilla. The 430 humanitarian volunteers, who were forcibly intercepted by the Israeli navy whilst delivering aid to Gaza, reported abuse during detention, prompting Barrot to call on other EU member states to impose similar travel bans on Ben-Gvir and urging sanctions from Brussels.

40 High-Risk Inmates Transferred from Palembang Prison to Nusakambangan

The Indonesian Directorate General of Corrections transferred 40 high-risk inmates from Palembang Prison in South Sumatra to Nusakambangan Prison on Friday 22 May 2026, bringing the total number transferred in May to 88. The move is part of a broader initiative to maintain security and discipline across Indonesia's penal system whilst eliminating contraband including drugs, mobile phones and other prohibited items.

Tourism activities at Bromo closed during Yadnya Kasada commemoration

Mount Bromo National Park will close all tourism activities from 30 May to 2 June 2026 to facilitate the Yadnya Kasada ritual ceremony, a traditional Tengger community observance. Access will be restricted to ritual participants during the closure period, with area reopening scheduled for 3 June 2026, following completion of post-ceremony site cleaning activities.

Papuan Youth Leader Appreciates Deputy Interior Minister's Peacemaking Efforts in Wamena Tribal Conflict

Charles Kossay, a prominent youth leader from Papua Pegunungan, has praised Deputy Interior Minister Ribka Haluk for her direct intervention in mediating tribal conflicts in Wamena, the capital of Papua Pegunungan province. Kossay highlighted that the central government's presence and involvement in peace-building efforts demonstrates national commitment to maintaining security and unity in the region, which has experienced displacement of residents due to the conflict. The deputy minister's hands-on approach in facilitating dialogue between community groups and providing support to local authorities represents a significant step toward resolving the social crisis.

OJK Reports Student Savings Reach 29.13 Trillion Rupiah in First Quarter 2026

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has announced that student savings accounts reached 29.13 trillion rupiah in the first quarter of 2026, covering 59.03 million accounts, representing a 1.25 per cent year-on-year growth. The achievement reflects positive progress in expanding financial inclusion among Indonesia's student population, with the "One Account One Student" (Kejar) programme achieving 88.36 per cent coverage. OJK remains optimistic that this upward trend will continue through the end of 2026, supported by strengthened financial literacy initiatives and stakeholder cooperation.

ACFFEST 2026 partners with Ruang Nonton to instil anti-corruption values in families

The Anti-Corruption Film Festival (ACFFEST) 2026, held in partnership with the Ruang Nonton community, brought anti-corruption education to over 150 family members in South Jakarta through screenings of three short films and facilitated discussions. The event promoted nine integrity values championed by Indonesia's anti-corruption commission (KPK), emphasising that anti-corruption education can begin with simple household habits and everyday family interactions rather than formal approaches alone.

Pertamina implements "Dual Growth Strategy" to safeguard national energy security

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) has announced its commitment to maintaining Indonesia's energy security whilst contributing to energy transition through a "Dual Growth Strategy" that balances strengthening core oil and gas operations with developing low-carbon businesses. The company currently contributes 65 per cent of national oil production and 37 per cent of gas production, whilst achieving carbon emission reductions of 1.62 million tonnes CO₂e and planning to reach 7.3 gigatons of carbon storage capacity by 2030 through carbon capture and storage projects.

West Bandung Livestock Service Takes Steps to Address FMD in Sacrificial Animals

The Fisheries and Livestock Service (Dispernakan) of West Bandung Regency has intensified surveillance of sacrificial animals ahead of Eid al-Adha 1447 Hijriah to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), lumpy skin disease (LSD), and brucellosis. As of 22 May 2026, 8,703 sacrificial animals from 148 trading points have been inspected, with 7,494 declared healthy, 965 still too young, and 144 classified as sick. The authorities require all imported animals to carry appropriate health certificates and encourage public purchase of animals bearing health labels from the livestock service.

Food Price Increases Driven by Rising Demand Ahead of Eid al-Adha

Jakarta's food prices have risen sharply in the lead-up to Eid al-Adha 1447 Hijriah, driven by increased consumer demand combined with adverse weather conditions and pest outbreaks affecting horticultural production. The Jakarta provincial government is implementing market monitoring, subsidised food distribution, and price controls on sacrificial animals to mitigate price spikes and protect lower-income residents.

Road Accident Involving DPR Member Gus Hilman on Paspro Toll Road Allegedly Caused by Drowsy Driver

A Toyota Innova carrying DPR member Muhammad Hilman Mufidi collided with a dump truck on the Paspro Toll Road in Probolinggo, East Java on Saturday afternoon, allegedly due to driver fatigue or loss of concentration. The Innova, driven by Mahrus Ali, struck the rear of the dump truck in the left lane, causing the vehicle to careen out of control on the fast lane.

Bappebti announces first-quarter 2026 futures broker ratings

Indonesia's Commodity Futures Trading Supervisory Agency (Bappebti) has released its quarterly performance ratings for futures brokers covering January-March 2026, with seven companies receiving top-tier ratings including PT Valbury Asia Futures and PT Finex Bisnis Solusi Futures. The assessment, conducted across 67 active futures broker firms, employs refined evaluation mechanisms focusing on regulatory compliance, financial integrity, and anti-money laundering implementation. The initiative aims to enhance market confidence and protect investors whilst incentivising brokers to improve service quality and corporate performance.

Brightspot 2026 Returns Targeting Regional Tourists for Shopping

Brightspot, Indonesia's premier shopping bazaar event, returns for its 17th edition in May-June 2026, featuring 250 brands across 10,000 square metres at Agora Thamrin Nine in Jakarta. Organisers target a 5 percent increase in visitor numbers from the previous 175,000 attendees and seek to attract more tourists from Malaysia and Singapore, who find Indonesian creative products increasingly affordable due to rupiah depreciation.

Indonesia and Japan enhance naval cooperation during warship visit

Japan's destroyer JS Ikazuchi visited Jakarta's Tanjung Priok port as part of a courtesy call aimed at strengthening bilateral naval cooperation and regional maritime security coordination between the Indonesian and Japanese navies. Officials from both countries held closed-door discussions on defence initiatives, including potential joint military exercises, with the visit reflecting deepening security ties between Indonesia and Japan in safeguarding maritime territories and regional stability.

Latest Condition of DPR Member Gus Hilman Following Toll Road Accident

DPR member Gus Hilman has passed the critical stage following a motor vehicle accident on the Paspro toll road on 23 May involving a Toyota Innova and a dump truck. Two of his staff members were killed in the incident, whilst Hilman and the driver remain hospitalised for intensive care. Officials expressed hopes for his swift recovery so he can resume his parliamentary duties.

DPR Member Urges Public to Be More Discerning in Selecting Cosmetics and Medicines

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission IX has warned the public to exercise greater caution when purchasing cosmetics, medicines, and food products, particularly to avoid being deceived by promises of instant results. The warning was issued during an educational awareness session in West Sumatra, where officials noted that unregistered products containing harmful chemicals continue to circulate in the market, and called for improved public scrutiny and reporting of non-compliant products to the Indonesian Drug and Food Supervisory Agency (BPOM).

Comparison of iCar V23 vs Chery J6: Which Boxy SUV EV is Most Appealing?

Indonesia's electric SUV market enters a new phase with the arrival of the iCar V23, priced at Rp 389.9 million—significantly below expectations and cheaper than the comparable Chery J6. Despite both vehicles falling under the Chery Group umbrella, they target different consumer segments: the iCar V23 appeals to younger buyers seeking retro-modern styling and a fun driving experience, whilst the Chery J6 positions itself as a premium, futuristic SUV for more mature drivers.

Following Sumatran Blackout, Commission XII of Parliament Pushes for National Electricity System Resilience

Following a major power outage affecting several regions in Sumatra on 22 May 2026, Commission XII of the Indonesian Parliament has called for a comprehensive evaluation of the national electricity system to strengthen its resilience. The commission emphasises that large-scale electricity disruptions pose risks not only to public activities but also to industrial sectors, public services, transportation, communication, and the broader national economy. The commission urges modernisation of electricity infrastructure, reinforcement of backup systems, and improved coordination between agencies to better anticipate and manage future large-scale disruptions.

Nine Indonesian Nationals Detained by Israeli Military Arrive Home Today

Nine Indonesian citizens and humanitarian activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla, detained by Israeli forces whilst delivering aid to Gaza, are scheduled to arrive in Indonesia on 24 May 2026. The activists, comprising journalists and volunteers, will land at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Tangerang after being safely released and transported by Turkish Airlines as part of an international humanitarian operation.

Berau Police Station Apprehends Two Drug Dealers, Secures 11 Methamphetamine Packages

Berau Police's Narcotics Unit arrested two men for drug trafficking and seized 11 packages of methamphetamine totalling 44.22 grams in East Kalimantan on 13 May. The arrests followed a public tip-off and subsequent investigation in Karang Ambun District, with one suspect named AM (22) initially apprehended with 4.72 grams, leading to the capture of a second suspect NAF (18) who was found with a further 39.50 grams of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

BI Rate Rises to 5.25 Per Cent: Check Home Loan Instalment Simulation at Bank Mandiri

Bank Indonesia has raised its benchmark interest rate (BI rate) to 5.25 per cent as of May 2026 to stabilise the rupiah and control inflation. The rate increase is expected to trigger rises in commercial bank loan interest rates, including home mortgage (KPR) rates, with Bank Mandiri customers facing higher monthly instalments—for example, a Rp600 million property purchase would require monthly payments of approximately Rp6.12 million over 15 years at 12 per cent interest. This policy aims to attract foreign investment and strengthen the rupiah while creating higher borrowing costs for domestic consumers.

OJK records student savings surge to Rp29.1 trillion by Q1

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has recorded student savings reaching Rp29.13 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, with 59.03 million accounts and a year-on-year growth rate of 1.25 per cent. The achievement reflects positive progress in expanding financial inclusion and demonstrates the success of the One Account One Student (Kejar) programme, which has reached 88.36 per cent implementation. OJK remains optimistic that this positive trend will continue through 2026, driven by programme strengthening and enhanced financial literacy initiatives for young savers.

Iran Reportedly Agrees to Peace Deal with United States, Strait of Hormuz to be Opened

Iran has reportedly agreed to a draft peace accord with the United States to end the conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to The New York Times, with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar facilitating the agreement. The proposed deal includes lifting the US maritime blockade on Iran, permitting commercial shipping through the strategically important waterway, unfreezing approximately 25 billion dollars in frozen Iranian assets, whilst separating nuclear programme issues for separate talks within 30-60 days. US President Donald Trump confirmed that a peace agreement has been largely negotiated, though final details remain under discussion.

Latest Research Links Natural Food Dyes to Increased Diabetes and Cancer Risk

Recent French research involving over 100,000 participants has found that certain natural food dyes are associated with increased risks of type 2 diabetes and various cancers, challenging the assumption that natural additives are inherently safer than synthetic alternatives. The study identified beta-carotene as linked to a 41% increased breast cancer risk and plain caramel colouring to a 15% overall cancer risk increase, prompting experts to recommend reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods and returning to whole foods instead.

Prabowo's Strategy to Confront El Nino Set to Strike Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has prepared measures to address an El Nino phenomenon predicted to impact Indonesia beginning in June 2026 and lasting until March-May 2027. According to the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the El Nino event is forecast to have moderate to strong intensity across Indonesian territory.

The Origin of the Term "Kusir Debate": A Horse's Flatulence

The term "kusir debate" (cart driver debate) originated from an anecdote by prominent Indonesian Islamic scholar and diplomat KH Agus Salim, who recounted a pointless argument between himself and a cart driver about whether a horse's flatulence meant the animal had "wind entering" or "wind exiting" the body. Agus Salim popularised the term to refer to futile, circular debates that lack substantive progress, using it extensively in important national forums to discourage unproductive argumentation.

Implementation of Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution through single-window export mechanism

The Indonesian Government, through President Prabowo Subianto, has implemented a structural overhaul establishing PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (DSI) as the sole export channel for natural resource commodities including palm oil, coal, and iron alloy, aimed at combating under-invoicing, transfer pricing, and currency flight estimated at USD 150 billion annually. The mechanism operates as a marketing facility rather than operational takeover, with private companies maintaining production whilst DSI serves as the single sales channel to maximise state revenue and tax collection from natural resource management. The policy, grounded in Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution, initially targets raw extractive commodities whilst planning expansion to other strategic natural resources, excluding manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, creative industries, and finished products.

Minister of Culture Emphasises Strengthening Kris Literacy at National Kris Day Commemoration

Indonesia's Minister of Culture Fadli opened the National Kris Day commemoration running from 23 May to 28 June 2026, emphasising the importance of strengthening cultural literacy around the kris as a symbol of Indonesian identity and civilisation. The government has committed to developing kris culture through enhanced literacy programmes, professional certification, collector regeneration, and cultural activities, whilst also recognising its potential as part of Indonesia's cultural economy. The event featured award presentations to prominent figures in kris culture and the opening of a National Kris Exhibition, reflecting efforts to engage younger generations in preserving this UNESCO-recognised intangible heritage.

Released from Israeli Detention, GSF Activists Beaten by Police upon Arrival at Bilbao Airport

Humanitarian activists from the Global Sumud Flotilla who were recently released from Israeli detention were subjected to violence by Basque police (Ertzaintza) upon arriving at Bilbao Airport in Spain on 23 May 2026. The incident occurred when a family member attempted to embrace an arriving activist, prompting police to respond with physical force, resulting in at least four arrests, including three flotilla participants. The GSF has condemned the excessive force used against citizens suffering from acute medical injuries sustained during their detention in Israel.

Energy Ministry Demands PLN Restore Electricity Supply in Sumatra

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has demanded state electricity company PLN urgently restore power supply across affected regions of Sumatra following a major blackout on 22 May 2026 that impacted over 13 million customers. The incident, triggered by a 275 kV transmission system failure between Muara Bungo and Sungai Rumbai in Jambi possibly caused by adverse weather, prompted cascading failures across Sumatra's grid. The ministry has ordered comprehensive technical investigations and directed PLN to strengthen the backbone system infrastructure and develop blackstart generation capacity to prevent recurrence.

Release of Sea Turtle Hatchlings for Turtle Conservation and Sustainable Marine Ecosystem

PT Asuransi BRI Life released 100 sea turtle hatchlings and provided conservation support at Kuta Beach in Bali as part of its commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable marine ecosystems. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with local turtle conservation communities including Bali Sea Turtle Society and Kuta Beach Sea Turtle Conservation, addresses serious threats to Indonesia's turtle populations from marine pollution, coastal habitat degradation, climate change, and human activity. The company also provided operational support including night patrols for egg collection, facility maintenance, and staff resources to bolster local conservation efforts.

Converting Industrial Waste Heat into Electricity and Biochar

An IPB University professor has introduced the combined heat, power and product (CHPP) concept as a solution to industrial energy efficiency, enabling waste heat from industrial processes to be converted into electricity and value-added products such as biochar and bio-oil. The technology aligns with Indonesia's national energy policy target of 51% renewable energy utilisation and 37% energy efficiency, whilst addressing the country's significant potential in agro-maritime biomass, solar, geothermal, wind and marine energy resources.

Indonesia Has Major Assets to Become a Magnet for Global Oil and Gas Investment

Indonesia's upstream oil and gas sector is positioned as a strategic investment destination amid the global energy transition, with natural gas projected to play a crucial role in meeting rising electricity and artificial intelligence infrastructure demands. Senior industry and government officials emphasise that whilst Indonesia possesses competitive returns on investment and fiscal schemes, attracting major international investors such as BP requires improvements in legal certainty, political stability, bureaucratic efficiency, and project execution speed. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and industry association leadership commit to streamlining inter-ministerial coordination and permitting processes to enhance Indonesia's appeal as a premier investment destination.

A Blind Graduate's Journey: Overcoming Challenges at UMJ

Qurratul Ain (Quin), a blind graduate of the English Education programme at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ), has completed her studies despite significant mobility, accessibility, and social challenges. Her journey highlights the critical importance of active communication, institutional support for disabled students, and the establishment of dedicated disability services units in higher education. Quin's experience underscores the need for universities to improve accessibility standards and assist disabled students in accessing government scholarships to bridge educational equity gaps.

BYD Claims its Driving Assistance System Reduces Serious Accident Rate by up to One-Sixth

BYD has announced that its advanced driving assistance systems have reduced serious accident rates to one-sixth compared to human-driven vehicles, based on airbag deployment data per 10 million kilometres. The technology, which has been deployed across more than 60 vehicle models and nearly 3 million vehicles, incorporates the company's "God's Eye" intelligent driving system and utilises cloud-based world models and reinforcement learning for continuous algorithm updates.

BPBD Temanggung constructs three boreholes to address drought in three villages

The Temanggung District Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) in Central Java has completed the construction of three boreholes across several areas to help address water shortages in drought-affected communities. The boreholes are currently undergoing maintenance by the contractor and are scheduled for handover to village authorities in June for further development and water distribution network connection. Two additional boreholes are also planned for 2024 in Tunggulanom and Jetis villages, with all projects funded through the regional budget at below 200 million rupiah each.

Why Hantavirus Quarantine Duration Far Exceeds COVID-19 Protocols

A hantavirus outbreak aboard a Dutch cruise ship departing from Argentina has resulted in 11 confirmed infections and three deaths, prompting a 42-day quarantine period for affected passengers—significantly longer than the standard 14-day COVID-19 quarantine. The extended isolation reflects the Andes virus variant's prolonged incubation window of 4 to 42 days, creating unique challenges for global health authorities in managing emerging pathogens with highly variable symptom onset periods.

Palm Oil and Mining Threats: Government Pledges Support for Rubber Farmers

Indonesia's Ministry of Transmigration has committed to supporting rubber farmers in transmigration settlements amid concerns over land conversion to palm oil plantations and mining operations. Deputy Minister Viva Yoga Mauladi announced that the ministry will continue providing assistance to transmigrant communities and explore intercropping schemes—including maize and cardamom—to enhance farmers' income. With approximately 2.1 million rubber-farming households primarily located in Sumatra and Kalimantan regions, the government views this support as critical to improving the livelihoods of transmigrant communities.

Expert: Every Pro Justisia Action Must Have Constitutional Legitimacy

Constitutional law expert Fahri Bachmid testified in a pre-trial hearing for former Lampung Governor Arinal Djunaidi, asserting that all law enforcement actions, including suspect designation, must comply with constitutional principles and due process of law. Bachmid emphasised that under Indonesia's new Criminal Code (KUHP Baru), proof of state financial losses in corruption cases must be based on formal audit reports from authorised state institutions, not administrative assumptions alone, and the absence of such audit automatically invalidates the material requirements for suspect designation.

Gunman Shot Near White House Dies

A gunman opened fire near the White House complex on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington DC on Saturday evening and was fatally shot by Secret Service officers after he drew a weapon from his bag. A bystander was also wounded in the incident, whilst President Trump was reportedly in the Oval Office at the time with staff members; the FBI and Washington DC Police are investigating.

Megawati Says She Wept Watching "Pig Festival" Documentary Film

Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri revealed she cried whilst viewing the documentary film "Pesta Babi: Colonialism in Our Time," citing deep concerns about Indonesia's environmental degradation and departure from national sovereignty principles. At a National Policy Dialogue forum on maritime sovereignty at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Megawati criticised extractive approaches to natural resource management that have caused environmental damage, agricultural land conversion, and violated indigenous rights, whilst calling for long-term development planning that transcends changes in presidential administrations.

FTSE Russell Removes Four Indonesian Stocks; BBRI, BBCA, and TLKM Face Threat of Foreign Sales

FTSE Russell's decision to remove four Indonesian stocks from its Global Equity Index Series has raised concerns about potential increased foreign fund outflows in the domestic equity market. Investment analysts warn that major blue-chip stocks in the banking and telecommunications sectors—including BBRI, BMRI, BBCA, and TLKM—could face downward pressure as foreign funds rebalance their FTSE-benchmarked portfolios.

Six Nations That Were Once Part of Historic Indonesian Kingdoms: Their Fates Today

This article examines six neighbouring nations—Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Cambodia, Timor-Leste, and Brunei—that were historically incorporated into major Indonesian kingdoms such as Sriwijaya and Majapahit centuries ago. Whilst these territories eventually became independent states, some have developed into prosperous nations, illustrating the vast historical reach of Indonesian maritime empires that dominated Southeast Asian trade and culture.

Preserving Hope for Children Living with HIV

The Vina Smart Era Foundation, established in 2007 and led by nurse Ropina Tarigan, provides a nurturing home for seven children living with HIV/AIDS, most of whom are orphaned due to the disease. Beyond medical care and antiretroviral treatment, the foundation emphasises education, life skills, and fostering self-confidence whilst working to reduce societal stigma around HIV. Through this work, the foundation demonstrates that children with HIV can grow, learn, and pursue their dreams just like any other children.

Inspector General of Indonesian Ministry of Hajj Reveals Critical Challenges for Hajj Officers at Arafah

The Inspector General of Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Maj. Gen. Dendi Suryadi, has identified critical operational challenges facing hajj officers during the Arafah phase scheduled for Monday 25 May 2026, including severe traffic congestion as millions of pilgrims converge from across the world and extreme heat forecasted to reach 47 degrees Celsius. The Arafah Task Force under the Armuzna Operations Unit will coordinate all services to ensure facilities are operational and ready for Indonesian pilgrims, with the Ministry emphasising that successful execution of this peak hajj phase is crucial to overall pilgrimage success.

Prabowo's Message to Danantara Administrators: Safeguard Rp 17 Trillion, That's Public Money

President Prabowo Subianto has warned officials at the Daya Anagata Nusantara Investment Management Agency (BPI Danantara) to handle state assets worth Rp 17 trillion carefully and prevent the loss of public funds. Danantara currently manages approximately 1,040 state-owned enterprises with total assets nearly reaching US$1 trillion, which the President described as a national sovereign wealth fund intended to preserve the nation's wealth for future generations.

Eid al-Adha and the Meaning of Sacrifice

This reflective essay explores Eid al-Adha beyond its ritualistic dimensions, examining sacrifice as a spiritual and social principle applicable to family life and national governance. Drawing parallels between the trials of Prophet Ibrahim's family and contemporary Indonesian struggles, the author argues that true sacrifice means cutting through selfishness, dishonesty, and injustice—principles exemplified by Indonesia's independence leaders and essential for ethical public service.

China Removes Import Tariffs on Africa as Trump Tightens US Trade Policy

China has eliminated import tariffs on nearly all African nations since May 2024, a strategic move to expand geopolitical influence on the continent amid Trump's protectionist trade policies. The zero-tariff policy, covering 53 of 54 African countries (excluding Eswatini), allows agricultural products and mineral resources to enter the Chinese market duty-free, whilst African exports to the US face mounting tariffs and uncertainty over trade preferences. The initiative reflects both China's interest in securing rare mineral supplies for technology and renewable energy industries and its broader competition with the United States for economic dominance in Africa.

Indonesian Citizen Intimidated During Israeli Detention, Yet Undeterred in Defending Humanity

Nine Indonesian citizens who participated in the Global Sumud Flotilla 2026 humanitarian mission were detained by Israeli forces and subsequently released on 21 May 2026. One detainee, Andi Angga Prasadewa, recounted the interception and stated that despite witnessing rubber bullet injuries inflicted on colleagues, the incident has strengthened their resolve to continue humanitarian advocacy and calls for increased civilian participation in future missions.

Pertamina Patra Niaga: MyPertamina Drives National Energy Digital Ecosystem

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga's MyPertamina application has received the Digital Innovation Awards 2026 in recognition of its role in advancing Indonesia's digital energy ecosystem. The application, which integrates artificial intelligence, big data, and IoT, has successfully digitalised energy services including targeted subsidy programmes, cashless transactions, and end-to-end operational data integration. The recognition underscores Pertamina Patra Niaga's commitment to modernising national energy distribution through digital transformation that serves the public interest.

Economic Crisis Worsens, President Promises Cabinet Reshuffle Amid US Coup Warning

Bolivia faces its most turbulent political phase in recent years as large-scale demonstrations blocking major roads have escalated into violent clashes between protesters and security forces in the capital La Paz, claiming at least four lives. President Rodrigo Paz Pereira, in power for just six months, has promised a cabinet reshuffle and the creation of an economic and social council, whilst the US has labelled the protests a "coup in progress" and expressed full support for the constitutional government. The crisis is rooted in Bolivia's worst economic conditions in four decades, including severe dollar shortages, fuel shortages, and rising inflation, exacerbated by Paz Pereira's decision to eliminate decades-old fuel subsidies in favour of free-market policies.

Rabid Dog Kills Civil Servant Appointee in Kupang

A suspected rabies patient, Wempi Kebo, a newly appointed civil servant (PPPK) working at a sub-district office in West Northwest Amfoang, Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, has died at Soliu Health Centre. The incident comes amid a broader rabies outbreak in the area affecting at least six residents, highlighting critical gaps in public health response and post-exposure vaccination protocols when animal bite victims delay reporting.

Transmigrant from Sukoharjo Builds New Life in East Kalimantan since 1985

Sugianto, a 64-year-old from Sukoharjo, Central Java, has been living in the Bunga Putih transmigration settlement in East Kalimantan since February 1985, when he was relocated under Indonesia's transmigration programme. Over four decades, he and fellow transmigrants have developed their allocated 3-hectare plots primarily into rubber plantations, which have become their primary income source after paying off government-financed development credits through rubber production revenues.

Police arrest elderly man for stabbing ex-wife at son's wedding reception in North Jakarta

Police in North Jakarta have arrested a 67-year-old man for stabbing his 55-year-old ex-wife at their son's wedding reception on 23 April. The suspect allegedly brought a knife and a letter expressing grievances about their marriage, stabbing the victim once as he shook hands with her on stage; the victim sustained serious injuries requiring intensive hospital care. The suspect has been charged under Article 468 of the 2023 Criminal Code for premeditated assault, carrying a maximum sentence of four years imprisonment.

Mobile Driving Licence Service Locations in Jakarta Today, Note the Requirements and Costs

The Jakarta Metro Police Traffic Directorate is operating mobile driving licence (SIM) renewal services at multiple locations across Jakarta on Sunday, 24 May 2026. Citizens renewing their licences must provide original and photocopied identity cards and licences, complete application forms, and undergo health tests, with costs set at 80,000 rupiah for category A licences and 75,000 rupiah for category C licences in accordance with government regulations.

Rupiah Depreciation Prompts Toyota Dealer to Offer Affordable Spare Parts

Auto2000, a Toyota dealer in Indonesia, is responding to concerns about rising vehicle maintenance costs caused by rupiah depreciation against the US dollar by offering more affordable spare parts alternatives. The company has launched T-OPT, a competitive-priced line of parts developed by Toyota Astra Motor that maintains Toyota quality standards whilst offering cost savings for customers, particularly those with vehicles beyond the five-year warranty period.

BTN Has Distributed Mortgages for 6 Million Homes; Government Examines 40-Year Tenure Scheme

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has channelled mortgage financing for 6 million housing units targeting low-income households in the third decile and above across Indonesia. The government is examining an extended 40-year mortgage tenure scheme to improve housing access for low-income residents, whilst also rolling out the Housing Self-Help Stimulus Programme (BSPS) targeting 400,000 households with allocations of Rp20-25 million each in 2026.

Iwan Koswara Highlights Posyandu Incentives and Flood Management Issues in Bekasi

West Java Provincial Legislative Council member Iwan Koswara conducted oversight in Jatirasa Village, Bekasi, where residents raised concerns about inadequate training programme accessibility, insufficient incentives for Posyandu health workers, flood management deficiencies, and BPJS health insurance arrears. Koswara pledged to present these findings to the provincial legislature for discussion with relevant local government agencies and departments to address public service gaps.

Police Uncover Distribution of Hundreds of Grams of Synthetic Tobacco in East Jakarta

Jakarta's Metro Police Narcotics Directorate has dismantled a synthetic tobacco trafficking operation in East Jakarta, apprehending two suspects and seizing 110 grams of the narcotic substance from two locations in Klender and Duren Sawit. The suspects were allegedly selling the synthetic tobacco through Instagram by direct meeting with buyers using location-based payment methods. The case was initiated following a public tip-off, demonstrating community participation in combating narcotics distribution.

Rupiah Badly Weakened Against Asian Currencies, Only Gains Against Indian Rupee

The Indonesian rupiah has weakened against nearly all major Asian currencies year-to-date in 2026, with only the Indian rupee showing losses relative to it, according to Permata Bank economist Josua Pardede. The deepest depreciation has occurred against the Malaysian ringgit (8 per cent) and Singapore dollar, with the rupiah falling more than 5 per cent against the US dollar despite the Dollar Index rising only 0.9 per cent, driven partly by increased dividend payment demands in May. The rupiah has hit multiple record lows throughout May, reaching Rp 17,717 per US dollar by Friday trading.

Coal and CPO in Turmoil: Global Markets Await Prabowo's New Strategy

Coal prices remained resilient this week at USD 137.55 per ton amid Middle East tensions and increased demand from Japan and South Korea, whilst crude palm oil (CPO) volatility surged following President Prabowo Subianto's announcement of sweeping reforms to Indonesia's commodity export mechanisms. The government's plans to centralise coal and palm oil exports through state-owned enterprises have sparked concerns among global traders over contract risks, logistics delays, and implementation details, with Indonesia accounting for nearly half of global thermal coal trade and being the world's largest palm oil producer.

DKI in review: sacrificial animals and LRT route extension

Jakarta experienced significant government developments over the past week, including the identification of Central Java, East Java, and West Java as the largest suppliers of sacrificial animals ahead of Eid al-Adha 2026, and the provincial government's decision to extend the LRT route from Velodrome to Dukuh Atas, adding 2 kilometres to the existing 12.2-kilometre route. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo also issued directives on stricter enforcement against Jakcard reselling on social media, oversaw the inauguration of 891 civil servants, and highlighted stable sacrificial animal prices as a factor attracting purchases from other regions.

Trump in White House Office During Shooting Incident at Presidential Residence

A shooting incident occurred outside the White House on Saturday 23 May when a man opened fire at a Secret Service checkpoint, resulting in his death after agents returned fire. President Trump was in the residence at the time and remained unaffected, though a civilian was also struck during the exchange, and the incident did not disrupt ongoing negotiations between the Trump administration and Iran.

Chery Indonesia Maintains Vehicle Prices Amid Current Economic Conditions

Chery Group Indonesia is maintaining vehicle prices despite currency depreciation and rising production costs, as the rupiah continues to fluctuate against the US dollar. The automaker's President Director stated the company is adopting a wait-and-see strategy whilst monitoring exchange rate movements, prioritising consumer affordability amid intensifying competition in the electric vehicle segment. However, the company acknowledged that extended currency pressure and rising logistics, raw material, and distribution costs could necessitate future price adjustments.

Rupiah Weakens, Chery Indonesia Still Maintaining Vehicle Prices

Chery Indonesia's President Director Zeng Shuo stated that the company is maintaining its vehicle prices despite rupiah weakness against the US dollar, implementing a "wait and see" strategy whilst monitoring currency fluctuations. The automaker continues to resist passing currency pressures directly to consumers as it aggressively expands its portfolio across internal combustion engine, hybrid, and electric vehicle segments in Indonesia's increasingly competitive market.

National Flag Hoisting Team Members Undergo Training for Pancasila Birth Anniversary

Members of the 2025 National Flag Hoisting Team (Paskibraka) have assembled in Jakarta for training and preparation ahead of the Pancasila Birth Anniversary commemoration on 1 June 2026. Officials from the Pancasila Ideology Development Agency (BPIP) emphasised that the Paskibraka programme serves as an official state mandate to strengthen national values amongst young people, with participants required to exemplify discipline, unity, and national service beyond ceremonial flag-raising duties.

Another Hajji Pilgrim from Brebes Dies in the Holy Land

A 72-year-old hajji pilgrim named Sumeri from Brebes Regency in Central Java died on 23 May 2026 after falling in a bathroom at a hotel in the Holy Land and being rushed to King Faisal Hospital in Mecca. This marks another fatality amongst pilgrims from Brebes, following the death of another pilgrim in early May, highlighting the health risks faced by elderly hajji pilgrims during the demanding pilgrimage.

Ministry of Hajj Prepares Ready-to-Eat Food Packages for Indonesian Pilgrims Ahead of Peak Pilgrimage Season

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is distributing ready-to-eat food packages to Indonesian pilgrims during the peak pilgrimage season in 2026, with six menu options produced by Indonesian companies and their Saudi Arabian partners. The food distribution covers key pilgrimage days (7, 8, and 13 Dhul-Hijjah) when pilgrim kitchen facilities in Makkah will be closed due to traffic management operations.

PLN Aceh Implements Rolling Power Cuts

PLN's Aceh distribution unit has implemented rolling blackouts across several regions to maintain system reliability following extreme weather damage to the 275 kV Muara Bungo-Sungai Rumbai transmission line. The utility is managing load across Aceh province in phases as part of broader recovery efforts for Sumatra's electrical system, which experienced widespread outages on 22 May 2026.

Disabled Graduate's Reflections at UMJ: Campus Provides Space for Unlimited Development

Danka Rahmadinah Talogo, a disabled graduate from the Faculty of Agriculture at Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta (UMJ), praised the institution for creating an inclusive environment that values students based on their abilities and potential rather than physical limitations. Speaking as a representative of the graduating class during the university's open senate convocation, Talogo highlighted how UMJ provided academic and personal development opportunities whilst fostering a culture of acceptance and respect among the campus community.

Central Java Accelerates Renewable Energy and Waste Management Investment, Ahmad Luthfi Extends Offer to Chinese Entrepreneurs

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi promoted investment opportunities in renewable energy and waste management to Chinese entrepreneurs at a Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business networking event in Jakarta. The province recorded 110.02 trillion rupiah in total investment in 2025, with China accounting for approximately 10.13 trillion rupiah, and Luthfi highlighted seven renewable energy projects available for investor participation, including solar power, micro-hydro, biogas, geothermal, and waste-to-energy initiatives.

Denpasar-Badung Waste-to-Energy Project to Process 1,500 Tonnes of Rubbish Daily

A waste-to-energy project (PSEL) in Denpasar, coordinated by the Balinese provincial government and involving collaboration between Denpasar City and Badung Regency, will process a minimum of 1,500 tonnes of rubbish per day. The facility, located in Pedungan, Pesanggaran on former restaurant land, is part of Indonesia's National Strategic Project programme, with Badung supplying 500 tonnes daily and Denpasar contributing 700 tonnes daily. The existing Suwung landfill will undergo phased closure once the facility begins operations.

Varta: Understanding SLI, EFB, and AGM Battery Technologies

German automotive battery manufacturer Varta has reported nearly double-digit growth in its Indonesian operations over the past year, driven by expanded distribution networks and increased customer base across multiple regions. The company plans to refresh its product packaging by late 2026 with colour-coded designs to help consumers easily distinguish between different battery types—SLI, EFB, and AGM—without altering product specifications or quality.

Man Arrested for Robbing and Assaulting Woman, Stealing Her Car and iPhone

A 33-year-old man identified as Kecot has been arrested in Tangerang, West Java for robbing a woman he had arranged to meet, stealing her Honda Brio car and iPhone worth millions of rupiah. The suspect and an accomplice threatened the victim with a sickle blade before abandoning her on a roadside after the robbery; police are still searching for the second suspect, Senet.

Happy Hapsoro's Company Acquires 12 Million Shares in Rukun Raharja Amid IHSG Decline

PT Sentosa Bersama Mitra, the investment company owned by entrepreneur Happy Hapsoro, acquired approximately 12 million shares in integrated energy emitter PT Rukun Raharja Tbk (RAJA) on 20-21 May 2026, purchasing at prices of Rp 2,900 and Rp 3,010 per share respectively. This aggressive buying occurred as the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) plummeted 8.35 per cent amid broader market pressures, demonstrating contrarian investment strategy during a downturn. Following the transactions, Sentosa Bersama Mitra's total shareholding in RAJA increased to 1.51 billion shares, with Hapsoro personally controlling approximately 27.52 per cent of the company.

UGM and Ministry of Youth and Sports Sign Agreement on National Sport Science Development

Gadjah Mada University (UGM) and Indonesia's Ministry of Youth and Sports signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop sport science through education, research, and community service. The collaboration builds on their partnership since 2014 and aims to establish Indonesia's sports development on scientific, technological, and innovative foundations, moving beyond physical infrastructure to intellectual capacity and global competitiveness.

Latest: Minimum Balance Requirements for Priority Customers at BNI, BRI, and Bank Mandiri

Indonesia's major state-owned banks—BNI, BRI, and Bank Mandiri—offer priority customer accounts with exclusive benefits such as queue-free service, dedicated relationship managers, and competitive lending rates, with minimum balance requirements ranging from Rp 1 billion to Rp 20 billion depending on the bank and account tier. Priority customers enjoy enhanced facilities including dedicated service centres, premium debit cards, and comprehensive banking advisory services, making these accounts attractive for high-net-worth individuals seeking elevated banking experiences.

Urban purification on the brink of oblivion

Surabaya's ceremonial "ruwatan kota" (urban purification) ritual transcends traditional Javanese practice to address modern urban anxieties and the loss of community identity amid rapid metropolitan development. The ritual serves as a broader reflection on how cities balance infrastructure and economic growth with preservation of cultural values and social spaces for collective interaction.

Prabowo in Kebumen: Zulhas Reshuffle Jest to Food Self-Sufficiency

President Prabowo Subianto attended a shrimp harvest festival in Kebumen, Central Java, where he joked about reshuffling Food Coordinator Minister Zulkifli Hasan after the minister mistakenly provided incorrect village information. Prabowo called for delays in non-essential government building projects, emphasising the need for productivity and direct benefits to citizens, whilst claiming his administration has achieved rice and maize self-sufficiency and setting a target for meat self-sufficiency within four to five years.

Bank Mandiri Pays out Massive Dividend Tomorrow Monday (25/5), Yet BMRI Share Price Continues to Decline

PT Bank Mandiri (Persero) Tbk is scheduled to distribute its final dividend for the 2025 financial year worth IDR 35.14 trillion to shareholders on Monday, 25 May 2026, bringing the total cash dividend payout to IDR 44.47 trillion or IDR 476.95 per share. Despite the substantial dividend distribution offering a dividend yield of approximately 8.14 per cent, BMRI's share price has come under continued pressure, declining 1.20 per cent to IDR 4,120 per share as of Friday trading and falling 12.34 per cent over the past month, driven in part by foreign investor selling amounting to IDR 4.99 trillion. The stock's valuation has become relatively attractive, with its price-to-earnings ratio (PER) at 6.58 times approaching its ten-year historical low of 5.91 times, prompting Samuel Sekuritas to maintain a buy recommendation with a target price of IDR 5,500 per share.

FTSE Russell Removes Four Indonesian Stocks from Index Effective 22 June

FTSE Russell has excluded four Indonesian stocks from its global equity index due to regulatory non-compliance, including high shareholding concentration, insufficient free float, and abnormal trading activities. The changes, announced on 23 May 2026, will take effect from 22 June 2026 following a rebalancing on 19 June. The affected companies are DSSA, DAAZ, HILL, and MLIA.

Four Shop Employees in North Sumatra Poisoned by Generator Fumes During Power Outage, Two Dead

Two shop employees named Adila and Rahma died from carbon monoxide poisoning whilst two others, Dwi and Riana, remain hospitalised following exposure to generator fumes in Tebing Tinggi, North Sumatra. The four workers were discovered unconscious in the shop after the owner failed to reach them by phone and sent the shop supervisor to check on them. The incident highlights the dangers of using unventilated generators indoors during power disruptions.

Planogram and Criticism of KDMP Product Layout

President Prabowo Subianto officially launched 1,061 Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) on 16 May 2026, but public attention on social media focused on the product display arrangements, with users criticising the layout as non-standard and lacking professional retail merchandising principles. Critics, including former minimarket workers, highlighted problems such as improper product placement and failure to follow planogram guidelines, the standard visual diagrams used by retailers to optimise product visibility, accessibility, and consumer appeal.

The Allure of the Cockroach Party Captivates Young Indians

A satirical political movement called the "Cockroach People's Party" has emerged in India as a youth-led response to derogatory remarks made by the Chief Justice of India comparing unemployed young people to cockroaches. The movement has rapidly gained millions of followers on social media, surpassing the official accounts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, and reflects growing frustration amongst India's large youth population over unemployment, inflation, and political marginalisation.

Korlantas Prepares Digital Driving Licence: Features and Advantages

Indonesia's Traffic Police (Korlantas) is introducing a digital driving licence accessible via smartphone, featuring real-time verification through QR codes and integration with electronic traffic enforcement systems. The digital licence will contain driver identity, licence number, validity period, and allow online renewal and expiry notifications, though full implementation awaits completion of regulations and infrastructure across Indonesia.

All Indonesian Pilgrims Dispatched to the Holy Land as Armuzna Services Finalised

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed that all Indonesian pilgrims have been dispatched to Saudi Arabia, with 527 contingents comprising 202,643 pilgrims and 2,097 officials now en route. The ministry is now focusing on preparing comprehensive services for the critical Armuzna phase (Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina), including accommodation, tent readiness, supplies, transportation, health, security, and staffing to ensure pilgrims can perform their worship safely and comfortably.

BTN Distributes Home Loans to 6 Million Units for Near-Poor Households

State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has distributed home loans (KPR) for 6 million residential units targeting low-income households in the third income decile across Indonesia. The government is examining extended mortgage schemes of up to 40 years to reduce monthly instalments and expand access to housing finance for the poorest segments, whilst also providing stimulus grants for those unable to access bank credit.

Power Outages in Pekanbaru Trigger Disruptions and Community Losses

A major blackout affecting Sumatra, including Riau Province, struck Pekanbaru on the evening of 22 May 2026, disrupting household activities, halting businesses, and damaging electrical equipment. The outage, which lasted from dusk to dawn with subsequent rolling blackouts, caused significant losses including the death of 29 koi fish belonging to Pekanbaru's Mayor and forced small business owners to cease operations due to unstable power supply and equipment damage.

iCar V23 Price Below Expectations, Will It Threaten Chery J6?

iCar V23, a boxy electric SUV, has entered the Indonesian market with a starting price of Rp 389.9 million, significantly lower than market predictions and positioning it as a potential challenger to the Chery J6. The vehicle features retro-modern design with three trim levels (X, Y, Z) offering either rear-wheel drive or intelligent all-wheel drive, targeting lifestyle-conscious consumers seeking distinctive character beyond traditional EV specifications. Although both vehicles occupy the boxy electric SUV segment, Chery's Indonesia president director maintains they serve different market segments, signalling intensifying competition based on design, lifestyle appeal, and driving experience rather than just battery capacity and range.

Indonesia Surrounded by 14 Megathrust Earthquake Zones, Japanese Expert Identifies Key Monitoring Points

According to Indonesia's 2024 Earthquake Hazard Map, the country is surrounded by 14 megathrust zones, with Japanese earthquake expert Professor Kosuke Heki from Hokkaido University highlighting similarities between Indonesia's seismic characteristics and Japan's Nankai Trough. Heki emphasises that long-term Earth crust deformation monitoring, particularly through Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) networks and seafloor geodesy, is critical for disaster mitigation, whilst Indonesia's multiple active subduction zones—from Sumatra to Maluku—present significant opportunities for developing advanced monitoring systems to detect stress accumulation and slow slip events that may precede major earthquakes.

Weekly Crime Report: Armed Robberies in Jakarta and Sewing Machine Corruption

Jakarta's police and legal authorities reported several significant criminal cases over the past week, including the seizure of 32 kilograms of methamphetamine from a Malaysian network, the prosecution of three suspects in a 9 billion rupiah sewing machine procurement fraud scheme, and the arrest of four Chinese nationals involved in online payment app scams. Additionally, authorities arrested a man carrying a loaded revolver and investigated an alleged robbery incident involving a model that proved inconclusive upon forensic examination.

Nearly a Month on, Five Victims of Bekasi Train Accident Still Receiving Hospital Treatment

Five victims of the fatal train collision in East Bekasi on 27 April remain hospitalised across four different medical facilities nearly a month after the incident. The accident, which occurred when the Argo Bromo Anggrek intercity train struck a stationary commuter train, was caused by a green taxi breaking down on the railway tracks, which led to a crowd gathering and obstructing the commuter train's departure, ultimately resulting in at least 16 deaths and 90 injuries.

Academic Ability Testing in Primary Schools: Measuring Ability or Limiting Potential?

An opinion piece examines the implications of implementing Academic Ability Tests (TKA) in Indonesian primary schools, raising concerns that standardised testing may narrow educational experience and overlook critical skills such as critical thinking and creativity. The author argues for a reoriented approach that integrates TKA with comprehensive student learning profiles, adaptive assessments, and a school culture prioritising learning process over scores.

Slow Project Execution Remains a Challenge for Indonesia's Upstream Oil and Gas Industry

Industry leaders and government officials at IPA Convex 2026 highlighted that slow project execution remains a critical challenge for Indonesia's upstream oil and gas sector, with bureaucratic coordination and licensing delays directly undermining investment economics. While the government has implemented flexible fiscal schemes and cross-ministerial coordination efforts to improve the investment climate, participants emphasised that accelerating approval and licensing processes is essential to maintaining Indonesia's competitiveness as an investment destination. Strategic partnerships between government, regulators, and both international and domestic oil and gas companies are critical to resolving bottlenecks and ensuring energy security.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Urges Graduates to Become Intellectuals Offering Solutions

Indonesia's Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Prof Dr Abdul Mu'ti, addressed Muhammadiyah University of Jakarta graduates, urging them to become intellectuals who contribute meaningful solutions to the nation's challenges. Mu'ti emphasised that graduates have a responsibility to apply their knowledge and innovation to solve societal problems rather than merely criticise circumstances, and highlighted the importance of academics engaging directly with communities.

Antam Gold Price Rises Marginally by Rp 9,000 Per Gram Over the Week

Antam gold prices showed fluctuating movement over the past week, with a marginal weekly gain of Rp 9,000 per gram, rising from Rp 2,764,000 on Monday to Rp 2,773,000 on Saturday. The buyback price similarly increased by Rp 8,000 per gram, with the largest daily spike occurring on Thursday at Rp 35,000 and the steepest decline on Wednesday at Rp 24,000.

Appearance of DPR Member Gus Hilman's Vehicle Severely Damaged Following Paspro Toll Accident

A Toyota Innova carrying Indonesian Parliament (DPR) member Gus Hilman collided with a dump truck on the Paspro toll road on 23 May 2026, leaving the vehicle's front section severely damaged. Two of Gus Hilman's staff members, Alex Anwaruh and Adinda Najwa, died at the scene, whilst Gus Hilman and the driver survived but required intensive hospital care. Police attributed the accident to the driver's suspected fatigue or lack of concentration.

IHSG Falls 8.35 Percent Over Week

Indonesia's composite stock index (IHSG) declined 8.35 percent over the week of 18–22 May 2026, closing at 6,162.045 points, whilst market capitalisation fell 10.07 percent to Rp 10.635 trillion. Despite the weakness in the index, the Indonesia Stock Exchange strengthened investor confidence through strategic activities including a visit from Deputy Speaker of Parliament Sufmi Dasco Ahmad and the launch of "Elevate 2026," a major event promoting Islamic capital market development.

Geely EX2 Receives Refresh with Range Extended to 460 km

Geely is set to launch a refreshed version of its compact electric vehicle, the EX2, in the Chinese market on 28 May 2026, featuring cosmetic updates and significant battery improvements. The updated model now offers two LFP battery options—35 kWh and 47 kWh—delivering ranges of 360 km and 460 km respectively, with pricing in China ranging from approximately 179 million to 228 million rupiah. All variants come equipped with liquid-cooling battery systems, offering advantages over competitors like the BYD Seagull and Wuling Binguo.

Student Shot Dead by Friend Day Before Thesis Defence in Sumba

Mario Marselina Kura, a final-year student at Universitas Stella Maris in south-west Sumba, was fatally shot in the chest by his friend Alexander Bili Kandu with an air rifle on 22 May 2026, just one day before his scheduled thesis defence. Police have charged the 20-year-old perpetrator under Indonesia's new Criminal Code with assault causing death, carrying a sentence of up to five years imprisonment, citing the defendant's gross negligence and unauthorised possession of the weapon.

Silver Adrift Amid Fed and Iran Shadows

Global silver prices closed the week at US$76.56 per troy ounce, down slightly from the previous day, as the market struggles to find direction amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and concerns about sustained high US interest rates. The metal's dual nature—functioning as both a safe-haven asset and an interest-rate-sensitive commodity—has left investors cautious, with markets pricing in a 55% probability of the Federal Reserve raising rates by 25 basis points before October 2026. While annual performance remains strong at over 125%, monthly volatility and underperformance relative to other commodities signal investor uncertainty about silver's near-term trajectory.

Rupiah exchange rate forecast to range around 17,700 per USD next week

The director of PT Traze Andalan Futures predicts the Indonesian rupiah will trade between Rp 17,680–17,800 per USD in the coming week, continuing its weakness amid global uncertainties including US-Israel-Iran tensions and the Federal Reserve leadership transition. Domestically, concerns over a newly announced state-owned resources company and foreign capital outflows are putting pressure on the rupiah, although Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa remains confident the currency will not collapse and expects significant dollar supply in June.

Grief for Family of Muhammad Firdaus, Missing Pilgrim Found Deceased in Holy Land

Muhammad Firdaus, a 72-year-old Indonesian pilgrim from Jakarta, was found deceased at a hospital in Makkah on 22 May 2026 after disappearing for eight days during the hajj pilgrimage. The elderly pilgrim became separated from his group whilst performing tawaf at Masjidil Haram on 15 May, was briefly reunited with his wife, but subsequently went missing again until his body was discovered at the hospital.

Jokowi's directive behind Bara JP's support for Prabowo-Gibran for two terms

Barisan Relawan Jokowi Presiden (Bara JP) has formally endorsed the Prabowo Subianto-Gibran Rakabuming Raka administration for two consecutive terms, acting on a directive from former President Jokowi communicated during the party's plenary session on 23 May 2025. The organisation clarified that it received no instructions to support only Gibran without Prabowo, and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the government's programmes including the Free Nutritious Meals scheme and free people's schools.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme absorbs 1.28 million workers amid drought preparation

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) has absorbed 1.28 million workers across 29,225 nutrition service units, significantly stimulating the national economy and reaching 62.4 million beneficiaries including schoolchildren, nursing mothers, and pregnant women. The National Nutrition Agency reports that 55 per cent of meal preparation facilities have obtained food safety certification, whilst Central Lombok has prepared 300 water tanks to address the anticipated prolonged 2026 dry season.

Developers Delay New Projects Amid BI Rate Rise and Middle East Turmoil

Indonesia's real estate sector faces mounting pressure following Bank Indonesia's increase in its key interest rate to 5.25 per cent on 20 May 2026, coupled with ongoing Middle East tensions threatening to raise construction costs. Real Estate Indonesia (REI) deputy chairman Bambang Ekajaya warned that developers are postponing new projects as higher borrowing costs constrain buyer demand whilst materials and labour expenses climb, creating a difficult dual squeeze on the property market that may fully materialise within two to three months.

Sunday: BMKG forecasts light rain for most major Indonesian cities

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for light to heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and strong winds across major Indonesian cities on Sunday. The forecast identifies a convergence zone extending from Bengkulu through Lampung to south-western Banten, with particular risk of severe weather in cities including Bengkulu, Bandung, Pontianak, and Manado, whilst other major cities are expected to experience light to moderate rainfall. BMKG also previously warned of potential high waves up to 2.5 metres in North Sumatran waters between 23-26 May 2026, which could disrupt shipping and fishing activities.

Preparations for Hajj Peak: Pilgrims Urged to Bring Personal Supplies

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak has advised hajj pilgrims to bring essential personal items during the peak pilgrimage period, including prescribed medications, light snacks, sun protection equipment, and comfortable footwear. The minister emphasised that whilst the Hajj Ministry will provide food at key locations such as Arafah, Muzdalifah and Mina, pilgrims should take personal responsibility for their health and comfort during the high-mobility rituals.

Schedule and Location Information for Car Free Day in Bekasi City Today

Bekasi City Government is holding its regular Car Free Day (CFD) on Sunday, 24 May 2026, from 06:00 to 09:00 WIB along Jalan Jenderal Ahmad Yani extending to the Summarecon Bekasi area. Traffic diversions have been arranged at strategic points to manage congestion, with routes redirected through Jalan Kemakmuran and other alternative roads during the event period.

Facts Behind Passenger Slapped and Kicked on JakLingko South Jakarta: Perpetrator Recently Released from Psychiatric Hospital

A passenger on a JakLingko bus in South Jakarta was allegedly slapped and kicked by another passenger after a dispute involving a malfunctioning electronic payment card machine. The incident has drawn attention to passenger safety and behaviour on public transportation.

Attorney General's Office Must Fully Investigate Backing of Mining Boss Aseng Bribery Case

The Indonesia Corruption Watchdog (MAKI) has called on the Attorney General's Office to thoroughly investigate Sudianto (alias Aseng), a mining entrepreneur suspected of corruption involving improper management of mining permits for PT Quality Success Sejahtera in West Kalimantan, whilst demanding that any government officials implicated in facilitating the scheme also be prosecuted. Both MAKI and legal experts have emphasised that investigating only the private businessman would be insufficient, stressing that the focus must extend to corrupt officials who allegedly enabled the illegal mining operation to proceed.

Why Is Israel's Treatment of GSF Activists Termed Torture?

Israeli military's treatment of Global Sumud Flotilla 2.0 activists, including nine Indonesian nationals, has been classified as torture by Amnesty International Indonesia based on the UN Convention Against Torture (UNCAT). The activists reported physical violence including beatings and electric shocks during detention, with Amnesty International's executive director emphasising that no emergency situation, including war, justifies such treatment. The nine Indonesian citizens have been released and are being returned to Indonesia after three to four days of detention.

Gold Prices at Pegadaian Fall Again on Sunday Morning

Gold prices across three brands—UBS, Antam, and Galeri24—fell for a second consecutive day at Pegadaian's online platform on Sunday morning. UBS dropped to Rp2,815,000 per gram, Antam to Rp2,871,000, and Galeri24 to Rp2,767,000, with prices subject to change at any time. The article provides a detailed price list for various gold quantities from the three brands.

Nine Indonesian Citizens Kidnapped by Israel Arrive at Soetta Airport This Afternoon

Nine Indonesian activists and journalists, members of the Global Peace Convoy Indonesia (GPCI) who were detained by Israeli forces whilst participating in a humanitarian mission to Gaza, are expected to arrive at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Tangerang on Sunday afternoon, 24 May. The group was released by Israel on Thursday after being detained at sea with over 300 other delegates from 45 countries, with several members reporting torture including beatings and electric shocks during their captivity.

Final Arrival Phase Concludes as Indonesian Pilgrims Prepare for Peak Hajj Pilgrimage

The final arrival phase of Indonesia's second wave of regular hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia has concluded, with the last contingent safely landing at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah on 22 May 2026. A total of 2,288 pilgrims from six flight groups originating from Surabaya and Batam embarkation points arrived over the 16-day operation and have been transported to accommodation in Mecca. With all Indonesian regular hajj pilgrims now gathered in the holy land and in good health, they are prepared for the peak pilgrimage phase, the standing at Arafah.

Bogor City Government: Paledang-Pasir Jaya Bridge to be Completed in November

The Bogor City Government targets completion of the Paledang-Pasir Jaya connector bridge by November 2026, marking the end of a five-year wait. Construction work will commence in late May 2026 and run for 180 days, with the bridge featuring a 2.7-metre frame height and operational restrictions to prevent crime.

Dow Jones Reaches Record High, US Stock Market Gains for the Week

The US stock market closed higher on Friday with the Dow Jones Industrial Average reaching a record closing high of 50,579.70, up 0.58 per cent, driven by declining US government bond yields amid market optimism over potential Middle East conflict de-escalation. The market's focus shifted to US-Iran relations and prospects for a peaceful resolution, which also supported rising oil prices, with Brent crude rising 0.9 per cent to $103.54 per barrel.

Mystery Surrounding Origin of Stray Bullet Leaves Ciracas Residents Shocked and Anxious

A stray bullet penetrated the ceiling of a residential home in Ciracas, East Jakarta on 20 May, creating a small hole in the asbestos roof and narrowly missing the homeowner's child. The origin of the bullet remains under investigation, with police conducting ballistic testing through the National Police Forensic Laboratory to determine the type of ammunition and the firearm used.

Fun Run for Lemhannas 61st Anniversary: Alternative Routes Announced

Jakarta's Transportation Authority will implement situational traffic engineering measures on Sunday 24 May 2026 from 06:00 to 08:00 WIB in the Sudirman-Thamrin and Monas areas due to the Lemhannas RI 61st anniversary Fun Run, which overlaps with the car-free day zone. Multiple road intersections will be affected, and the authority has provided several alternative routes for motorists to minimise congestion.

Sunday: Mobile Driving Licence Services Available at Two Jakarta Locations

The Jakarta Metro Traffic Police Directorate has opened mobile driving licence (SIM) renewal services at two locations across Jakarta on Sunday, offering convenience for residents seeking to extend their driving permit validity. The service operates from 07:00 to 12:00 WIB at Jalan Raden Intan in East Jakarta and Jalan Panjang in West Jakarta, requiring identification documents and a health check, with renewal fees of Rp80,000 for Class A and Rp75,000 for Class C licences.

Deputy National Police Chief Strengthens Pilgrimage Protection Measures with Saudi Arabia Ahead of Peak Hajj Season

Indonesia's Deputy National Police Chief held meetings with Saudi Arabia's Presidency of State Security to strengthen coordination on protecting Indonesian pilgrims during the 2026 hajj season peak. The Hajj Task Force has already handled 11 police reports and 21 information reports involving 13 suspects and 320 victims, with losses totalling 10 billion rupiah, whilst preventing 32 unregistered pilgrim departures. The collaboration aims to prevent illegal pilgrimages, visa abuse, and fraud whilst ensuring comprehensive security for Indonesian pilgrims throughout their journey.

BI Rate and Developers Facing Increased Pressure

Bank Indonesia's interest rate hike to 5.25 per cent, combined with ongoing Middle Eastern conflict, is exacerbating pressure on Indonesia's property sector through rising construction costs and reduced consumer purchasing power. The Real Estate Indonesia Association warns that whilst property prices may rise due to elevated building costs, developers cannot immediately pass these costs to buyers given weak demand, with the full impact of the rate decision expected within two to three months.

Competency-Based Training for the Future Quality of Indonesia's Human Resources

The article advocates for competency-based training as a critical approach to developing Indonesia's human resources, arguing that traditional training often focuses on attendance and certificates rather than demonstrable capabilities. It emphasises the importance of aligning training programmes with the Indonesian National Work Competency Standards (SKKNI) and the Indonesian National Qualifications Framework (KKNI) to ensure workers possess measurable, job-relevant skills rather than mere theoretical knowledge.

Schedule and Location Information for Jakarta Car Free Day Today

The Jakarta Provincial Government continues to hold its weekly Car Free Day (CFD) along General Sudirman Street to MH Thamrin Street every Sunday from 06:00 to 10:00 WIB, providing residents with a motor-vehicle-free public space for exercise and leisure. The programme operates across multiple locations in Jakarta's five administrative areas, aimed at reducing public dependence on motorised vehicles whilst promoting healthier and more environmentally friendly urban spaces.

Charting a new direction for food self-sufficiency and the fisheries sector

Indonesia's Kebumen Area-Based Shrimp Farming Project (BUBK) represents a major government initiative to modernise national aquaculture from traditional to high-tech, standardised practices on a 100-hectare coastal site in Central Java. The facility, which became operational in March 2023, has achieved high productivity of 40 tonnes of vannamei shrimp per hectare in its eighth cycle, symbolising the government's commitment to ensuring national protein security and preventing economic leakage through modernised fisheries infrastructure and integrated waste management systems.

Weekly Legal Roundup: Former Deputy Minister of Labour Faces Charges and Four New Suspects in West Kalimantan Mining Permit Case

A roundup of five prominent legal cases in Indonesia includes charges against former Deputy Minister of Labour Immanuel Gerungan for extortion in occupational safety certification, the National Narcotics Agency's seizure of 136.5 kg of methamphetamine and 147 kg of cannabis during April-May operations, the KPK's examination of a former Director General of Hajj Affairs in relation to pilgrimage quota corruption allegations, a revised Human Rights Law proposal to include the right to a clean and healthy environment, and the Attorney General's Office establishing four new suspects in a mining permit mismanagement corruption case involving PT QSS in West Kalimantan spanning 2017–2025.

Deputy Police Chief Inaugurates AH Bimo Suryono Again as General Chair of KBPP Polri

AH Bimo Suryono has been inaugurated for a second term as General Chair of the Keluarga Besar Putra Putri (KBPP) Polri, an organisation for the families of active and retired police officers, serving from 2026–2031. Deputy National Police Chief Komjen Dedi Prasetyo conducted the inauguration in Jakarta on 22 May, during which Bimo reaffirmed the organisation's support for President Prabowo Subianto's government. The Indonesian National Police will strengthen communication with KBPP Polri and expand data collection efforts on retired police families across Indonesia.

Trump Claims US-Iran Peace Deal Nearly Complete, Strait of Hormuz Set to Reopen

US President Donald Trump has announced that a peace agreement with Iran has been "largely negotiated" with finalisation details to be announced shortly, with reopening of the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz as a key provision. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman confirmed convergence in positions between the two nations and proposed a 14-point framework agreement, with further talks expected within 30-60 days, though he cautioned that closer positions do not guarantee agreement on core issues. The diplomatic breakthrough marks a dramatic reversal from recent tensions, with Trump having previously cancelled military preparations and other engagements to focus on negotiations during this critical period.

Weekly Politics Roundup: Police Bill and Release of Indonesian Nationals from Israel

This weekly political digest highlights five major developments including warnings from the Interior Minister about geopolitical impacts on regional economies, the Defence Minister's statement on enhanced military court penalties for alleged perpetrators of caustic soda attacks, and President Prabowo's address on macro-economic frameworks amid global challenges. Key legislative milestones include Parliament's approval of a proposed Police Reform Bill as a parliamentary initiative, and the successful diplomatic effort to secure the release of Indonesian nationals detained by Israeli authorities, praised by MPR leadership as evidence of state commitment to protecting citizens abroad.

Surge of Sexual Violence Reports at UPN Jogja Results in 5 Lecturers Suspended

UPN Veteran Yogyakarta has launched investigations into multiple sexual harassment cases involving lecturers, with six university staff members currently being processed following viral social media allegations. The university has suspended five lecturers and established a task force that has interviewed 13 victims and 12 witnesses, whilst the university rector has pledged strict sanctions against those found guilty of sexual misconduct.

Police Fire Warning Shots Whilst Arresting Violent Robbers in Tangerang City

Police in Tangerang apprehended three members of the Cikande 01 gang suspected of violent street robberies, with one arrest involving a dramatic chase and warning shots fired. The gang is linked to a May 12 assault on two motorcycle riders who were slashed with machetes whilst resisting theft of their vehicle, resulting in multiple serious wounds. Three additional gang members remain at large and subject to ongoing police manhunts.

Mobile Driving Licence Service Arrives in Gianyar: Schedule for Sunday, 24 May 2026

A mobile driving licence (SIM) renewal service will operate in Gianyar on Sunday, 24 May 2026, offering quick and convenient renewal of Class A (cars) and Class C (motorcycles) licences without requiring visits to the main SATPAS office. The service charges Rp 80,000 for Class A and Rp 75,000 for Class C, and operates from 07:00 WITA onwards at Gianyar Town Square.

Accident Chronology of DPR Member Gus Hilman: Drowsy Driver Collides with Lorry

A Toyota Innova carrying DPR (People's Consultative Assembly) member Gus Hilman collided with a dump truck on Saturday, 23 May 2024 at 15:14 WIB, with police attributing the accident to the driver's suspected drowsiness or lack of concentration. Two of Gus Hilman's staff members, Alex Anwaruh and Adinda Najwa, were killed in the collision, whilst Gus Hilman and the driver, Mahrus Ali, survived and received hospital treatment.

UK F-35B Fighter Jets Successfully Test AI-Powered Missiles in Breakthrough Trial Against Russian-Chinese Defences

The UK has accelerated development of its next-generation SPEAR 3 missile system after the F-35B stealth fighter jet successfully completed test flights carrying four of the advanced missiles. The trials, conducted at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in Maryland in collaboration with US forces, represent a significant milestone in integrating precision-guided weapons into NATO's fifth-generation fighter aircraft. The SPEAR 3 missiles, equipped with multi-mode seekers and AI-enhanced capabilities, are designed to strike targets over 100 kilometres away whilst maintaining the F-35B's stealth profile.

An-Nadzir Congregation in Gowa Sets Eid al-Adha for 26 May 2026

The An-Nadzir congregation in Gowa, South Sulawesi, has determined that Eid al-Adha in the Islamic year 1447 Hijri will fall on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, based on lunar observation and scientific calculations. The group uses a methodology combining religious texts with astronomical observation, including monitoring moon phases and natural phenomena, establishing that the transition from Dhul-Qa'dah to Dhul-Hijjah occurs on 17 May 2026.

Digital Generation Encouraged to Manage Finances and Access Financing More Wisely

A financial education forum held at Hasanuddin University in Makassar brought together regulators, fintech companies, and educational institutions to strengthen financial literacy among young people. The event highlighted the importance of personal financial management and responsible use of digital lending services, particularly as digital financial services become increasingly accessible to students and young professionals transitioning to economic independence.

Medical Device Innovation to Reduce Blood Exposure Risk in Clinical Settings

B. Braun Indonesia has launched the Introcan Safety 3, a next-generation intravenous catheter equipped with blood control septum technology designed to minimise healthcare workers' exposure to blood during intravenous procedures. The innovation reflects growing industry efforts to strengthen workplace safety in medical facilities whilst maintaining high-quality patient care, supported by professional nursing organisations across Indonesia.

South Korea Strengthens Muslim-Friendly Tourism Promotion as Indonesian Tourist Numbers Rise

Indonesian tourist arrivals in South Korea reached a record 365,596 visitors in 2025, positioning Indonesia as the ninth largest source of tourists globally and fourth in the ASEAN region. South Korea's tourism authority is responding by intensifying Muslim-friendly tourism promotion through collaboration with fashion brand Buttonscarves, featuring digital content creation and exclusive collections designed to appeal to Indonesian travellers seeking halal-friendly facilities, prayer spaces, and culturally relevant experiences.

Taman Safari Promotes Conservation Education Through Wildlife Photography

Taman Safari Indonesia Group is launching the 35th International Animal Photo & Video Competition (IAPVC) 2026 with the theme "From Lens to Legacy", positioning wildlife photography and videography as a medium for conservation education and public engagement. The competition will introduce a new IAPVC Photography Community and expand its reach to Southeast Asia and Australia, featuring nine categories and educational programmes including workshops at schools and universities.

Eni Signs Three Long-Term LNG Contracts from Indonesia to Strengthen Global Energy Supply

Italian energy company Eni has signed three long-term agreements to purchase liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Indonesia's South Hub and North Hub projects, in which it holds average stakes exceeding 80 per cent. The contracts cover approximately 2 million tonnes per annum of LNG from the Kutei Basin, to be supplied via the Bontang LNG facility in East Kalimantan, with plans to reactivate a previously dormant LNG train and support Eni's target of over 20 MTPA of contracted LNG supply by 2030.

Central Java Regional Government Offers 7 Renewable Energy Projects to Chinese Investors

The Central Java Provincial Government has offered seven strategic renewable energy projects to Chinese investors to boost regional economic growth, presented directly by Governor Ahmad Luthfi at a China-Indonesia business and political exchange dinner in Jakarta. The province has realised Rp110.02 trillion in total investment during 2025, with Chinese investment reaching Rp10.13 trillion, and is preparing seven operational industrial zones with twelve additional industrial and special economic zones under development to support foreign capital inflows.

Man Caught Stealing Mobiles Arrested During Community Security Patrol in West Jakarta

Police in West Jakarta's Tambora district arrested a man caught stealing two mobile phones after residents apprehended him during a community security patrol in Tanah Sereal neighbourhood. The suspect, who confessed to breaking into a house through a fence and entering via a second-floor window, claimed economic hardship as motivation and revealed he had sold the stolen phones for 1 million rupiah to fund online gambling and drug purchases. The case has been classified as theft with aggravating circumstances under Indonesian law, with the suspect facing charges under Article 477 of Law No. 1 of 2023.

APEC MRT 2026 Bilateral Meeting: Indonesia Accelerates Trade Relations with Four Partner Nations

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri conducted bilateral meetings with Vietnam, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and Singapore during the APEC Ministers' Responsible for Trade (MRT) 2026 meeting in Suzhou, China on 22–23 May 2026. The discussions focused on strengthening trade relationships and addressing contemporary trade issues, with particular emphasis on Indonesia's CPTPP accession, maximising existing trade agreements, and ensuring tangible benefits for domestic businesses. Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to regional economic integration and trade resilience through export diversification and enhanced supply chain connectivity.

Bappebti Releases Top-Ranked Futures Brokers for Q1 2026, Including Valbury and Finex

Indonesia's commodity futures regulator Bappebti has released its quarterly ratings for Q1 2026 (January–March), assessing 67 active futures brokers against strict compliance and operational parameters. Seven firms achieved top-tier status, including PT Valbury Asia Futures and PT Finex Bisnis Solusi Futures, based on financial integrity, regulatory adherence, transaction monitoring, and anti-money laundering implementation. The ratings system, refined to be more adaptive and risk-based, aims to incentivise industry-wide improvements in governance, compliance culture, and consumer protection whilst supporting sustainable market growth.

Rubio touts US energy on India trip meant to repair ties

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited India to shore up bilateral relations strained by American tariffs and Washington's engagement with Pakistan and China, pressing the case for US energy diversification of India's supply. The visit seeks to restore momentum on trade negotiations after Trump's tariffs were partially rolled back in a February interim framework, though talks have stalled pending the resolution of unfair trade practices investigations. Analysts remain sceptical of near-term progress given the absence of a finalised trade agreement and broader geopolitical tensions including the US-Israeli war on Iran.

Indonesian Navy Strengthens Cooperation with Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force

The Indonesian Navy's Naval Area Command (Kodaeral) III has strengthened military and diplomatic relations with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force through a courtesy visit by the Japanese destroyer JS Ikazuchi to Jakarta's Tanjung Priok port. The two nations discussed enhanced defence cooperation, including joint military exercises, aimed at strengthening maritime security in the region and bolstering bilateral relations.

HLIOS formulates adaptive legal solutions to address global health challenges

Universitas Katolik Soegijapranata in Semarang is hosting the 4th Health Law International Online Seminar (HLIOS) 2026 to develop adaptive legal solutions for global health challenges arising from rapid advances in medical science, health technology, and digitalisation. The international academic forum brings together experts and practitioners from multiple countries to address complex legal issues including regulation, governance, patient rights protection, and medical dispute resolution in contexts such as telemedicine, palliative care, and health technology innovation.

Wuquf at Arafah: Kiai Cholil Urges Pilgrims to Increase Supplications and Remembrance

KH M Cholil Nafis, Vice-Chair of Indonesia's Council of Islamic Scholars and Head Supervisor of the 2026 Hajj Pilgrimage, has urged Indonesian hajj pilgrims to increase supplications and remembrance during wuquf at Arafah, the peak of the hajj pilgrimage. He emphasised that the best prayers are those made during the standing at Arafah between midday and sunset, and shared specific invocations recited by the Prophet Muhammad and earlier prophets.

BGN Reports Free Nutritious Meal Programme Absorbs 1.28 Million Workers

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme has generated significant employment and economic activity, absorbing 1.28 million workers across 29,225 nutrition service units whilst serving 62.45 million beneficiaries. The programme stimulates the domestic economy through engagement of 142,387 suppliers, predominantly small and medium enterprises, and creates sustained demand for agricultural products throughout the value chain.

Government Prepares Proxy Pilgrimage for Deceased Hajj Pilgrim in the Holy Land

The Indonesian government's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced it will arrange a proxy pilgrimage (badal haji) for a 72-year-old Jakarta resident, Muhammad Firdaus, who died in Mecca after going missing on 15 May. Firdaus's body was identified by his wife on 22 May at a hospital in Mecca, and authorities will ensure the pilgrimage obligation is fulfilled on his behalf.