Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 31 May 2026

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45+ Waisak Day 2570 BE Greetings for Family and Friends

Waisak Day 2570 BE is observed across Indonesia, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha. The Ministry of Religious Affairs confirms the national celebration at Borobudur Temple with precise timing. The article offers a curated list of messages for various relationships to spread peace and goodwill.

Trump: US 'slowly but surely' moving closer to deal with Iran

President Donald Trump has stated that the United States is 'slowly but surely' moving towards a strong agreement with Iran, warning that military action would follow if no deal is reached. This comes after US and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian targets in February killed over 3,000 people and damaged infrastructure, followed by a ceasefire in April. Despite failed negotiations in Islamabad, the US has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports.

BGN Clarifies MBG Objective: Prioritise Toddlers and Pregnant/Breastfeeding Mothers Before Schoolchildren

Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency Sony Sonjaya has clarified that the Free Nutrition Programme (MBG) prioritises vulnerable groups—pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers—over schoolchildren, addressing widespread misperceptions about its scope. He emphasised the initiative as a strategic national investment under President Prabowo Subianto to build a generation ready for Indonesia's Golden Era 2045, urging all implementers to strictly adhere to the intended objectives.

Dental Clinic Nurse Stabbed by Patient in Tangerang

A dental nurse in Tangerang was stabbed multiple times by a patient during a routine procedure, necessitating intensive hospital treatment. The suspect, apprehended by local residents, allegedly attacked the victim after using the clinic’s toilet. Police are investigating the motive behind the incident, which has shocked the community.

DRC Ebola Outbreak Claims 246 Lives as Crisis Deepens

The Democratic Republic of Congo faces a severe Ebola outbreak with over 1,000 suspected cases and 246 deaths, spreading to Uganda. The WHO and MSF warn of challenges including conflict, border closures, and delayed testing, while Brazil investigates a potential case. The rare Bundibugyo strain, lacking an effective vaccine, poses a significant public health threat.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education strengthens digitalisation to bridge education gap in Teluk Bintuni

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is strengthening digital learning infrastructure in Teluk Bintuni, West Papua, to address education gaps in 3T regions. The programme includes distributing interactive flat panels, laptops, and electricity upgrades via PT PLN, alongside teacher training and mentoring to ensure effective classroom integration of technology. This aims to improve learning quality and accessibility for students in remote areas.

Prabowos visit to France yields US$3.5 billion commercial deals - ANTARA News

President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to France secured US$3.5 billion in commercial agreements, bolstering economic ties between the two nations. The deals were formalised during the France-Indonesia High-Level Business Council, co-chaired by industry leaders from both countries, which aims to triple bilateral trade by 2035. This underscores Indonesia's strengthening position as a strategic investment partner with robust growth potential.

US Defence Secretary Threatens Iran, War Could Continue Without a Deal

The US Defence Secretary has warned that military action against Iran is possible if no deal is reached, stressing that Washington's objective remains preventing Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, recent clashes and Israeli advances in Lebanon have escalated tensions, with Tehran denying any final agreement is imminent.

Bekasi Police strengthen security patrols ahead of Waisak

Police in Bekasi have intensified patrols ahead of Waisak to prevent crime and maintain public order, deploying 70 personnel from national police, military, and municipal police. The operation covered key areas including Pantura Highway and nightlife hubs, with no incidents reported. Authorities urged residents to report suspicious activity via hotline or WhatsApp.

Prabowo returns from France with Rp61 trillion business contracts for Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto’s trip to France secured four commercial agreements worth US$3.5 billion (Rp61.25 trillion), formalised through the newly established France-Indonesia High Level Business Council. The initiative, attended by leaders from 30 major companies, aims to triple bilateral trade by 2035, underscoring Indonesia’s growing appeal as a strategic investment destination.

Prabowo's visit to France yields US$3.5 billion commercial deals

President Prabowo's state visit to France secured US$3.5 billion in commercial agreements via the France-Indonesia High-Level Business Council. The initiative targets tripling bilateral trade by 2035, reinforcing Indonesia's position as a strategic investment partner with strong growth prospects.

Bang Jago Extorts Driver with 'B' Plate in Dago: 'Add Rp 50,000, It's Up to You!'

A man known as Bang Jago extorted money from a driver with a 'B' license plate in Bandung following Persib's championship celebration. Police confirmed the suspect was apprehended while under the influence of alcohol, with the motive reportedly linked to purchasing more drinks during the festivities.

Vesak celebration boosts tourism, creative economy: Dy Minister

The Vesak celebration has driven significant tourism growth and economic activity across Indonesian regions including Yogyakarta and Solo, with local businesses reporting increased revenue from hotels, homestays, and dining establishments. Deputy Minister Irene emphasised the event's role as an economic driver beyond its religious significance, calling for continued cooperation to maximise societal benefits.

200 Volunteers Trace 4km of Ciputat River to Investigate South Tangerang Flood Causes

Volunteers and officials traced a 4km stretch of the Ciputat River to identify flood causes in South Tangerang, uncovering blockages from debris and tree trunks. The collected data will be analysed and presented to the city government, underscoring collaborative efforts to mitigate recurring flooding through infrastructure improvements.

LMKN to Implement Data-Based Royalty Distribution from June 2026

LMKN will implement a data-driven royalty distribution system from June 2026, incorporating the Unlogged Performance Allocation (UPA) scheme to address unmonitored music usage. The move aims to enhance transparency and fairness for copyright holders by ensuring payments reflect actual usage data, as part of broader efforts to modernise Indonesia's music licensing ecosystem.

14 New Smartphones Launched in Indonesia in May 2026, Starting from Rp 1 Million

Indonesia has seen the launch of 14 new smartphones in May 2026, with entry-level models priced from Rp 1 million. The lineup includes Realme C100 series, Vivo X300 Ultra, and Poco C81 Pro, featuring high-resolution cameras and large battery capacities for budget-conscious buyers.

Tobacco Industry Warns of Rising Illegal Cigarette Trade Amid Plain Packaging Policy

Indonesian tobacco industry leaders warn that implementing plain packaging for cigarettes could exacerbate the illegal cigarette trade, which already accounts for 14% of the market. They argue the regulation conflicts with intellectual property laws and isn't explicitly mandated by existing legislation, potentially harming tax revenues and business sustainability amid economic uncertainty.

Grim AI and Mass Layoff Predictions Cause Alarm — Reality on the Ground Contradicts Fears

Economists have dismissed fears that AI is driving mass layoffs, citing improving unemployment data. Youth unemployment fell from over 10% in late 2025 to 9.5% in April 2026, with experts attributing prior increases to fiscal tightening and economic uncertainty rather than AI. A tightening labour market, driven by fewer new workers entering due to baby boomer retirements and lower immigration, continues to support positive employment prospects.

MPR Respects First Hearing in West Kalimantan Four Pillars Quiz Competition Lawsuit

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has confirmed it will respect the court process following a lawsuit over the Four Pillars Quiz Competition in West Kalimantan. Lawyer David Tobing alleges misconduct by judges and a master of ceremony, claiming violations of the Indonesian Civil Code. The MPR is currently investigating under State Civil Service regulations.

Lenteng Agung road subsidence repair 70% complete, concrete pouring scheduled tonight

Repair work on a sunken road in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta, is 70% complete with concrete pouring planned for tonight. Delays due to power cables and rainfall have pushed completion to Tuesday, with traffic disruptions expected; authorities urge residents to exercise patience.

“You Keep Lying”, East Jakarta Police Chief Issues Stern Rebuke to WO Marwah Owner

East Jakarta Police Chief has issued a stern rebuke to the owner of Wedding Organiser Marwah over allegations of defrauding dozens of couples. Two couples received substandard services, while 56 others were unable to hold their weddings. The incident, captured on video and shared widely online, has led to victims demanding accountability.

Traces of Javanese Heritage in Muar, Johor

Javanese descendants in Muar, Johor, preserve cultural traditions rooted in 19th-century migrations driven by colonial pressures. Their influence is evident in local agriculture, architecture, and community practices, with figures like YB Selamat Takim and Johar Paimin actively maintaining Javanese heritage through cultural institutions and daily customs.

Coal Distribution Strengthens as KAI Logistik Transport Volume Reaches 936,244 Tonnes

KAI Logistik reported a more than 11% increase in coal transport volume to 936,244 tonnes in April 2026, driven by higher energy demand and infrastructure improvements. The growth reflects strengthened customer confidence in rail logistics for strategic energy commodity distribution. The company has expanded capacity through facilities like the Container Yard 2 Merapi.

Foucault, Islamic Scholarship, and the Future of Pesantren

The article examines how Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) in Indonesia, integral to national identity, face challenges from abuse cases involving power imbalances. Drawing on Michel Foucault's theories, it argues such violations breach Pancasila's principles of human dignity and religious justice, threatening the nation's foundational values.

Five Easy Ways to Buy Dollars Online in 2026

Indonesians now have multiple digital options to purchase US dollars, including through crypto stablecoins and global asset investments, as financial technology continues to simplify access to foreign currency. The article details five methods, highlighting the growing popularity of digital finance among younger investors seeking exposure to the US dollar.

Marsiyah, World's Oldest Hajj Pilgrim from Indonesia

Marsiyah, a 104-year-old woman from East Java, is the world's oldest Hajj pilgrim for the 2026 season. She saved for years by selling traditional sweet jenang with her daughter's assistance and remains in good health despite her age. Her journey serves as an inspiration during the 1447 Hijriah pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

Marwah WO Owner Pledges Compensation Within Six Months If Not Imprisoned

Marwah Wedding Organizer’s owner, accused of defrauding dozens of brides, has promised to compensate victims within six months if not imprisoned. Police facilitated a meeting between victims and the suspect to ensure transparency over asset recovery and fund returns, with the suspect claiming they are also victims.

BGN Nears 30,000 MBG Kitchen Target with 29,400 Verified

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has verified 29,400 Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) kitchens nationwide, with 27,900 operational, nearing the target of 30,000. The programme serves 82.9 million beneficiaries, including students, pregnant women, nursing mothers, toddlers, and educators, as part of the government's priority to improve community nutrition. Despite budget efficiency measures, BGN maintains service quality with Rp15,000 and Rp13,000 meal portions.

Video: IHSG and Rupiah Volatile – Where Should Major Fund Managers Invest?

The Indonesian financial market is experiencing heightened volatility as the IHSG and Rupiah weaken amid Middle East tensions driving up oil prices and domestic fiscal concerns over a potential budget deficit exceeding 3%. Analysts are questioning the Federal Reserve's policy direction and the trajectory of foreign capital flows into emerging markets, with major fund managers reassessing their investment strategies.

Solar-Powered Irrigation in Remote Areas to Cut Operational Costs

The Indonesian government is deploying solar-powered irrigation systems in remote regions to reduce operational costs and ensure sustainable water supply for farmers. Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo highlighted that the initiative, part of broader efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and food security, includes tailored infrastructure in Rote Ndao, where a Rp1.5 billion project serves 10 hectares of farmland.

The Tragedy of Psychoanalysis on Trial in the Courtroom

The article contends that critiques of psychoanalysis in legal settings frequently mischaracterise it as purely Freudian, overlooking its modern evolution. It argues that the courtroom's narrative battles often reduce psychology to rhetorical tools, leading to shallow criticism. The piece urges a clearer understanding of psychoanalysis' complexity to avoid epistemic oversimplification.

Housing Loans to Extend Up to 40 Years – Details Revealed

The Indonesian government plans to extend subsidized housing loan terms to 40 years to lower monthly payments for low-income households, aiming to increase homeownership and reduce the housing backlog. Developers have expressed support for the policy, which is expected to boost purchasing power and stimulate growth in the national housing sector.

Saudi Ministry of Health delivers 2.5 million services during Hajj 1447 AH

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health successfully managed healthcare services during the 1447 AH Hajj season, providing over 2.5 million medical services with no reported disease outbreaks. Advanced technologies including drones, medical robotics, and smartwatches were deployed to enhance patient care and monitoring. These initiatives reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to delivering innovative healthcare solutions for pilgrims worldwide.

Ministry of Immigration and Corrections grants Waisak remission to 1,052 inmates

Indonesia's Ministry of Immigration and Corrections has granted special remission to 1,052 Buddhist inmates for Waisak 2026, recognising their positive behavioural changes and participation in rehabilitation programmes. The initiative saved Rp840.525 million in meal budgets, with North Sumatra, West Kalimantan, and Jakarta having the highest number of recipients. Minister Agus Andrianto urged inmates to reflect on the occasion and reintegrate successfully into society.

Land Subsidence and Rising Sea Levels: BRIN Warns Java's North Coast Faces Increasing Submergence Threat

BRIN research highlights escalating threats to Java's North Coast from land subsidence and rising sea levels, with areas like Muara Gembong already experiencing expanded flooding. The agency warns that without immediate data-driven mitigation strategies—including groundwater control, mangrove rehabilitation, and infrastructure planning—the risk of permanent inundation will grow. Collaborative efforts with academic institutions are underway to monitor subsidence and inform sustainable coastal development.

10 People's Schools to Be Established in Jakarta

The Indonesian government has announced plans to establish 10 people's schools in Jakarta, targeting 1,000 underprivileged students including dropouts and street children. The initiative, part of a broader national programme, includes constructing 93 permanent school buildings by June 2026 and integrating digital infrastructure, with over 32,000 new students expected to be enrolled nationwide by the new academic year starting July.

Ministry of Finance Targets Rp12 Trillion from Sukuk Auction Next Week

The Ministry of Finance is set to auction Rp12 trillion in Sharia-compliant government bonds next week to support the 2026 state budget, despite declining investor interest in recent auctions. Total bids for the 19 May auction fell to Rp18.79 trillion, down from Rp33.5 trillion in April. Debt financing for 2026 is projected at Rp832.2 trillion, up from last year's target of Rp775.9 trillion, to cover a fiscal deficit of Rp689.1 trillion.

BRI's LinkUMKM Empowers Zdrink to Develop Chocolate Drink from Lampung Cocoa

Zdrink, a Jakarta-based micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME), has developed a ready-to-mix chocolate drink using Lampung's native cocoa with support from BRI's LinkUMKM programme. Founded in 2022, the company utilises BRI's digital tools and training initiatives to boost market reach and product quality. The LinkUMKM platform has supported over 16.46 million MSMEs across Indonesia, providing integrated services to foster sustainable growth.

DPR Commission XII and Indonesian Ambassador to Kuwait Discuss Strengthening Energy Cooperation

DPR Commission XII and the Indonesian Ambassador to Kuwait discussed strengthening energy cooperation, including Kuwaiti investments in oil and gas projects. The talks highlighted potential economic benefits for both nations and the importance of accelerating investment to enhance national energy production and security.

Marwah Wedding Organiser Scam: 24 Victims Documented, Losses Reach Rp2.6 Billion

Twenty-four victims have been documented in a scam involving wedding organiser Marwah, with reported losses of Rp2.6 billion. Police in East Jakarta are investigating the case, which affects 58 couples, two of whom already married but did not receive promised services. Victims are demanding compensation as the investigation continues.

TPIA, BBCA, and AMMN Among Top Foreign Investor Selling Targets

Foreign investors net sold IDR 12.43 trillion in Indonesian stocks during the week of May 25-29, 2026, targeting TPIA, BBCA, and AMMN most heavily. While the Jakarta Composite Index declined 0.56% and daily transaction frequency dropped, market capitalisation rose 0.88% due to higher transaction values. The selling occurred alongside efforts by regulators and industry bodies to enhance sustainability reporting standards for greater market transparency.

Borobudur Temple Digitally Preserved in 3D via Project Eternal

Project Eternal, a global initiative by Antigravity and Insta360, has digitally preserved Borobudur Temple using advanced 3D Gaussian Splatting and drone technology, ensuring its cultural significance is maintained for future generations. The project also invites global creators to document spaces through immersive visual challenges, highlighting Indonesia’s heritage as a symbol of civilisation recognised worldwide.

UGM's Republic Conference Highlights Shrinking Civil Space

Hundreds of civil society organisations, activists, and academics gathered at Universitas Gadjah Mada to address the shrinking civil space under President Prabowo Subianto's government. They urged collective efforts to restore democratic participation and tackle systemic challenges such as state repression, corruption, and the erosion of meritocracy.

Transmart's Double Discount Sale Slashes Mattress Prices

Transmart is holding its Full Day Sale on 31 May 2026, offering up to 50% plus an additional 20% discount on mattresses and household products. Prices vary by region, with specific models available at different rates across Java, Bali, and other islands. The promotion includes terms such as minimum spend requirements for Bank Mega credit cards and restrictions on electronics purchases.

Cirebon Child Offenders to Serve Community Service Sentences

Cirebon City has signed an MoU with Bapas to implement community service sentences for child offenders, moving towards restorative justice instead of traditional punitive measures. Mayor Effendi Edo emphasised the need for tangible implementation beyond formalities, directing agencies to coordinate closely to resolve cases effectively and ensure government accountability through integrated social solutions.

Bandung 'Bang Jago' Extortionist Arrested After Targeting B-Plate Vehicle — Face Revealed

A man identified as 'Demon' extorted a B-plate vehicle owner in Bandung, threatening to damage the car unless paid Rp50,000. Police arrested him following Persib Bandung's Super League victory celebrations, citing alcohol influence. He is currently being questioned over the extortion attempt.

Hajj Deaths Drop Sharply in 2026 Amid Improved Management

Indonesian Hajj fatalities have halved to 134 in 2026 compared to 267 in 2025, attributed to enhanced health management and smoother logistical operations. Despite progress, challenges such as tent mismanagement and queue discipline persist, with officials vowing to address these to ensure safer pilgrimages in future.

Viral Song 'My Little Bolu Ketan': Psychiatrist Explains Earworm Phenomenon

A viral song mentioning Indonesia's Energy Minister has sparked discussions on earworms, with psychiatrists confirming the phenomenon as generally harmless but noting potential disruptions for stressed individuals. Experts caution that while the catchy tune itself poses little risk, excessive social media consumption poses a greater threat to attention spans and mental well-being.

Marwah WO Owner Arrested Over Fraud Against 58 Couples

East Jakarta police have arrested the owner of Marwah Wedding Organiser on suspicion of defrauding 58 couples. Fifty-six were unable to hold their weddings, and two proceeded without receiving promised services, with reported losses of Rp2.66 billion. Police are continuing their investigation, with the total losses potentially increasing as more victims come forward.

BRI KPR Solusi promotion offering up to 20-year tenor and interest rates from 2.50%

BRI has launched its KPR Solusi home loan programme, offering interest rates from 2.50% and loan terms up to 20 years to make property ownership more accessible. The initiative, available nationwide until June 2026, targets both corporate payroll clients and general customers with flexible financing options. It aims to support the national property sector while providing inclusive financial services for dream home acquisition.