Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 June 2026

Showing 1,501-1,550 of 1,647 articles

Gold Prices Stable for UBS and Galeri24, Antam Dips at Pegadaian on Wednesday Morning

Gold prices at Indonesia's state-owned pawnshop Pegadaian showed mixed movements on Wednesday morning, with UBS and Galeri24 products holding steady while Antam-branded gold edged lower. The 1-gram price for UBS remained at Rp2,757,000, Galeri24 at Rp2,734,000, and Antam slipped to Rp2,843,000. The pricing dynamics offer a snapshot of domestic retail bullion demand against the backdrop of global precious metal fluctuations.

Government Prepares AI-Powered Digital Single ID for Social Assistance and MSMEs

The Indonesian government is developing a Digital Single ID system utilising artificial intelligence, aiming for a rollout by the end of the year. The initiative seeks to improve the targeting of social assistance and direct cash transfers, thereby reducing potential budget leakages. The integrated data system will also support micro, small, and medium enterprises by enabling more accurate credit scoring and policy mapping.

Awaiting Decision on Plan to Write Off IDR 14 Trillion in JKN Arrears

BPJS Kesehatan is awaiting a presidential regulation to formalise the write-off of IDR 14 trillion in unpaid National Health Insurance premiums, affecting approximately 23 million participants. The Finance Minister has already transferred IDR 20 trillion to the agency to execute the policy, which targets long-standing arrears. Officials urge beneficiaries to maintain active contributions once the one-off debt forgiveness is implemented.

Five Youths Named Suspects in Karawang Gay Party, Chronology Revealed

Five young men have been formally named suspects following a public indecency incident at a nightclub in Karawang, West Java. The case came to light after a video showing male couples embracing went viral on social media, prompting police to arrest four suspects at their homes while a fifth remains at large. Police state the incident began with a late-night gathering and was fuelled by heavy alcohol consumption.

Lampung Provincial Government Pushes Green Energy Investment, Bioethanol Industrial Project Ready to Develop

The central government and Lampung Provincial Government are accelerating bioethanol industry development, with officials inspecting a proposed pilot plant site and sorghum cultivation areas. Lampung has been designated a priority region for national bioethanol production due to its abundant raw materials and infrastructure. The push comes ahead of the planned gradual implementation of a 10% bioethanol blend in petrol by 2028.

Clearing of BPJS Kesehatan Arrears Awaits President's Signature

The plan to write off the arrears of 23 million BPJS Kesehatan participants is only awaiting President Prabowo Subianto's final approval. The total value of the long-outstanding premiums is estimated at Rp 14 trillion. The government has allocated Rp 20 trillion in the 2026 state budget to execute the policy and has already transferred the funds to the social security agency.

China's Former First Lady Was Once Semarang's 'Crazy Rich' Heiress

Oei Hui-lan, the daughter of a Javanese sugar magnate known as the 'Sugar King of the World', lived a life of extraordinary wealth in Semarang before marrying Chinese diplomat Wellington Koo and becoming the First Lady of the Republic of China. Her father amassed a fortune equivalent to Rp 44 trillion, providing her with an 80-hectare estate and connections to British royalty. After her husband served as acting President, she spent her later life abroad in New York, passing away in 1992 at the age of 102.

House Budget Committee: Be Open to Criticism and Input to Tackle the Strong Dollar

The House Budget Committee (Banggar DPR) has urged the government to embrace criticism and take concrete steps to address the weakening rupiah, rising sovereign bond yields, and the falling stock market. Committee Chair Said Abdullah outlined a three-pronged strategy focused on restoring business confidence through policy consistency, transparent governance, and capital market reform. The recommendations include maintaining inter-agency dialogue, refining priority programmes, and pushing the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to enhance market transparency.

Environment Minister Clarifies: Landfills Not Closing, Open Dumping Banned

Indonesia's Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat has clarified that the government has no plans to shut down final disposal sites (TPAs), but intends to completely eliminate the environmentally damaging practice of open dumping. The ministry is encouraging all landfills to transition towards controlled or sanitary landfill systems to prevent groundwater contamination. The minister also emphasised the importance of preserving community-managed waste sectors to foster green jobs.

German Opposition Demands Ukraine Compensate for Nord Stream Damage

Alice Weidel, leader of Germany's right-wing opposition party AfD, has urged Ukraine to pay compensation for the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline blasts, arguing the incident caused massive economic harm to Germany and Europe. She claimed Germany's prosperity was built on cheap Russian fossil fuels, a model she accused the current government of destroying through confrontational policies toward Moscow. Weidel also pledged that her party would seek direct negotiations with Russia to restore dialogue if it wins the upcoming federal election.

Pertamina's Fuel Prices as of 10 June: Pertamax Jumps Sharply

Indonesia's state energy firm Pertamina has sharply increased the price of its non-subsidised fuels Pertamax and Pertamax Green 95 by more than 30 percent. The adjustment, effective 10 June 2026, was made in coordination with the government and follows the periodic evaluation of global oil prices. Prices of subsidised fuels Pertalite and Biosolar remain unchanged.

Five Youths Named Suspects in Karawang Gay Party Case

Police in Karawang, West Java, have named five young men as suspects in an indecency case after a video of same-sex couples embracing at a nightclub went viral on social media. The incident occurred at the Theater Night Mart venue, where the suspects allegedly consumed alcohol before engaging in acts deemed to violate public decency laws. Authorities are still pursuing one suspect and have charged the individuals under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

Trump Family's Crypto Business 'Scandal' Erupts, Investors Lose Trillions

An investigation reveals President Donald Trump and his family amassed US$2.3 billion from cryptocurrency ventures while retail investors suffered equivalent losses. The business model, involving licensing the family name, left many small investors devastated as token and stock values collapsed.

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Denies Rumours of Finance Minister Appointment

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has dismissed speculation that he is being considered for the position of Finance Minister in President Prabowo Subianto's cabinet. He insisted his current focus remains on his duties at the Health Ministry. The State Secretary has also clarified that no cabinet reshuffle is currently planned.

KPK collaborates with Polri's Kortastipidkor to address HR needs

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is strengthening collaboration with the National Police's anti-corruption corps to tackle human resource constraints and resolve stalled cases. The partnership includes joint investigations in regions like Muara Enim, South Sumatra, and aims to expand beyond Java. The KPK also signalled openness to future cooperation with the Attorney General's Office.

Sweden Follows Indonesia's Lead in Banning Mobile Phones in Schools

Sweden will ban mobile phones in classrooms starting this autumn as part of a broader shift towards traditional book-based learning. The move mirrors Indonesia's existing restrictions, which include a ban on social media access for children under 16. Both nations aim to improve literacy and cognitive development by reducing screen time in educational settings.

Chatib Basri and Budi Gunadi Meet Prabowo Amid Finance Minister Speculation

Former Finance Minister Chatib Basri and Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin met with President Prabowo Subianto at the Presidential Palace, sparking speculation about a cabinet reshuffle. Both figures, along with National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, denied that Chatib was offered the finance minister post, stating the meeting focused on macroeconomic conditions and government technology. The discussions also covered the rupiah’s depreciation, budget efficiency, and updates on the free health screening programme.

Elderly and High-Risk Indonesian Pilgrims in Madinah Advised Against Overexertion

Indonesian Hajj officials in Madinah have urged elderly and high-risk pilgrims arriving for the second wave not to push themselves with non-mandatory activities such as excessive city tours or the Arbain prayer. The pilgrims have just completed the physically demanding peak rituals in Armuzna and require recovery time. Authorities have also streamlined hotel room assignments by delegating plotting to local sectors, improving service efficiency.

Influencers Testify as Witnesses in Hanania Travel Umrah Fraud Scandal

Police are investigating alleged fraud by Hanania Travel, which left hundreds of pilgrims unable to depart for umrah. Influencer Keanu Angelo has been questioned as a witness, claiming he promoted the packages via barter without receiving endorsement fees. The director of the company has been named a suspect and detained, with 687 victims having filed complaints so far.

SPMB Primary School 2026/2027: Children Not Required to Take Calistung Test, Here Are the Full Requirements

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has released the admission rules for the 2026/2027 Primary School New Student Admission System (SPMB). Prospective pupils are not required to take reading, writing, and arithmetic (calistung) tests, but must meet age and documentation requirements. Three admission pathways are available: domicile, affirmation for disadvantaged and disabled pupils, and mutation for children relocating with their parents.

Differences in Jokowi's Diploma from PDIP and KPU Versions Revealed by Michael Sinaga

YouTuber Michael Sinaga claims to have found discrepancies between copies of former President Joko Widodo's undergraduate diploma obtained from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) and the General Elections Commission (KPU). According to Sinaga, the differences lie in the positioning and imprint of the legalisation stamps. PDIP politician Guntur Romli confirmed the party provided Sinaga with copies of Jokowi's educational documents in accordance with public information disclosure laws.

Six Western Nations Sanction Israeli Settler Networks in the West Bank

Six Western nations have imposed coordinated sanctions targeting the financial and logistical networks behind Israeli settler violence in the occupied West Bank. The measures, announced by Britain, France, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway, focus on organisations accused of funding and facilitating illegal settlement expansion. The countries also warned Israel of harsher steps if it fails to curb settler violence and halt the expansion.

Sony Sonjaya Allegedly Holds Over 20 Names Involved in BGN Corruption Case; DPR Dismisses Claims

Former National Nutrition Agency (BGN) deputy chief Sony Sonjaya reportedly possesses a list of more than 20 names allegedly involved in a corruption case at the institution. A member of the House of Representatives (DPR) has dismissed the claim as being from an unclear source and not worth responding to. Sonjaya, recently named a suspect alongside the former BGN head, is reportedly seeking justice collaborator status to reveal details of the alleged graft.

Experiment on China's Space Station Predicted to Yield New Approach for Fatty Liver Treatment

A seven-day experiment aboard China's Tiangong space station has been completed, designed to study how microgravity affects lipid metabolism in liver cells. Researchers anticipate the study will identify key metabolic regulation mechanisms and potentially lead to new treatments for fatty liver disease. The experiment specifically examined the protective role of blood flow shear stress against lipid accumulation, which is diminished in space.

Lintasarta Reveals Investment Strategy Amid Weak Rupiah

PT Lintasarta will continue selective investment in digital infrastructure despite the strengthening US dollar, focusing on projects with clear customer demand and returns. The company's CEO stated that clients may adjust project scopes but are unlikely to halt spending on critical technologies like cybersecurity. Lintasarta highlighted its 'Intelligent Core' platform as the foundation for integrating connectivity, cloud, and AI solutions across Indonesian industries.

Verdict Hearing for 4 TNI Personnel in Andrie Yunus Acid Attack Case Held Today

The Jakarta Military Court II-08 is holding a verdict hearing for four Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel accused of a premeditated acid attack on human rights activist Andrie Yunus. Military prosecutors have sought a 2.5-year prison sentence for each defendant, citing a planned assault using a dangerous chemical. The case has drawn scrutiny over the jurisdiction of military courts and the proportionality of the recommended sentences.

The First Rail, The Last Crossing Barrier

A recent collision at an ungated rail crossing in Kemijen, Semarang highlights the chronic bureaucratic inertia plaguing Indonesian infrastructure safety. Despite Kemijen being the birthplace of Indonesia's railway system in 1864, the crossing lacks a barrier, and responsibilities are endlessly deflected between PT KAI and various levels of government. The incident underscores a persistent national tendency to commission reports instead of implementing practical safety measures.

Haj Ministry Reveals List of KBIHU Violating Haj Dam Rules, Some Refusing to Return Funds

Indonesia's Ministry of Haj and Umrah has uncovered multiple violations by Haj and Umrah Guidance Groups (KBIHU) regarding the payment of Nusuk dam. These groups collaborated with local mukimin to collect dam funds from pilgrims without depositing them through the official Saudi authority, Adahi. While some KBIHU have since complied, others, including one identified by the initials AU from West Nusa Tenggara, have refused to return the funds.

Purbaya Designs 2027 State Budget Deficit at 1.8 to 2.4 Percent of GDP

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has outlined a fiscal framework for the 2027 State Budget, targeting a deficit ranging from 1.8 to 2.4 percent of gross domestic product. The design aims to balance revenue optimisation through tax system reform and natural resource management with targeted spending efficiency. The government intends to bolster tax compliance using big data whilst maintaining selective fiscal incentives for high-value strategic sectors.

Manpower Ministry Simplifies Job Fair Applications via SIAPkerja Platform

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower has upgraded its SIAPkerja digital platform to streamline the application process for organising job fairs. The enhancement integrates the submission, document verification, and approval issuance into a single transparent digital system. The initiative aims to modernise employment services and broaden public access to job vacancy information nationwide.

Former BGN Deputy Sony Sonjaya Submits JC Application, Names 26 in Case File

Sony Sonjaya, the former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), has submitted a Justice Collaborator application to the Attorney General's Office, providing 26 names suspected of involvement in the corruption of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. His legal team stated that the named individuals span the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The Attorney General’s Office has named three suspects in the case, alleging intervention in partner verification processes and procurement fraud involving electric motorbikes, tablets, and televisions.

Coal Price Plunges After Rally, Warning Sign for Indonesian Business

Coal prices fell sharply after briefly touching US$150 per ton, tracking a decline in global oil prices. The drop, driven by weak downstream demand and high inventories at major Chinese ports, signals near-term pressure for Indonesian low-calorie coal exports. Sellers are reportedly offering discounts and cheaper cargoes to avoid rising demurrage costs as spot market activity remains sluggish.

Luhut Urges End to Debate on Free Nutritious Meals Programme, Calls It a 'Good Thing'

Chair of the National Economic Council Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has called for an end to disputes over the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, describing it as a positive initiative. A council survey across 800 service points found the programme boosts local economies, with 86.9 per cent of kitchens partnering with local micro and small enterprises. The findings also highlighted that nearly all employees are hired from surrounding communities.

'New Victims' of the Iran War Cry Out: Petrol Nearly Rp 38,000 Per Litre

European motorists are drastically cutting fuel consumption as the Iran conflict and surging global oil prices force austerity at the pump. Eurozone petrol sales recorded their steepest drop since October 2023, while average prices have soared to €1.80 per litre. The economic ripple effects are also fuelling inflation across the bloc and a surge in fuel theft in the United Kingdom.

Hong Kong to launch various programmes to celebrate 29th anniversary of return to China

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government and local community sectors are organising a series of offers and activities to celebrate the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to Chinese sovereignty. The celebrations will include free public transport, complimentary access to cultural and recreational facilities, and widespread dining discounts. The initiatives aim to foster a festive atmosphere across the city.

Benchmark Interest Rate Could Rise Further if US Dollar Breaches Rp18,200

Bank Indonesia has pre-emptively raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.5% to defend the rupiah, which has faced severe depreciation pressure. An economist from Bank Danamon warns that further tightening is possible should the rupiah weaken past Rp18,200 per US dollar and the current account deficit widen beyond 1.5% of GDP. The move aims to curb imported inflation and bolster the attractiveness of domestic investment instruments, though it has raised concerns over higher financing costs for businesses.

BMKG: Indonesia Weather Forecast for 10 June 2026 Dominated by Cloudy Skies

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast predominantly cloudy conditions across major Indonesian cities for 10 June 2026. While most areas will avoid significant rainfall, the agency has urged residents in regions such as Sofifi to remain vigilant for moderate rain and those in Mamuju to be cautious of hazy conditions affecting visibility. The public is advised to monitor official BMKG channels for weather updates.

Pertamax Fuel Prices Officially Rise as of 10 June, Here Is Pertamina's Explanation

PT Pertamina has officially raised the prices of its non-subsidised fuels, Pertamax and Pertamax Green 95, effective 10 June 2026. The adjustment, coordinated with the government, follows the periodic evaluation mechanism based on global oil prices and market economics. Prices for subsidised fuels Pertalite and BioSolar remain unchanged.

Malaysian Investor Targets Multiple Sectors for Investment in Central Java

Malaysian firm The Marq International SDN BHD plans to invest in renewable energy, geothermal, agriculture, and infrastructure in Central Java. Governor Ahmad Luthfi welcomed the plan and offered further opportunities, including state-owned enterprise projects and tourism development. The Malaysian CEO praised the region's openness to foreign investment.

Tragedy in Jasinga: Boy Killed by Hunting Dogs, Owner Named as Suspect

A nine-year-old boy has died after being attacked by four wild boar hunting dogs in Jasinga, Bogor. The dog owner has been named a suspect and faces up to five years in prison for negligence. Police are investigating the incident, which occurred while the dogs were on a hunt and the victim was fishing nearby.

Fake Job Trap in Bali: Man from Sumba Tortured and Extorted by Two Women in Hotels

A man from Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara, was allegedly lured by a fake job advertisement in Bali, leading to his captivity, torture, and extortion. The victim, Krisno, claimed he was held for 12 hours across two hotels, severely beaten, and that his family was pressured for a Rp100 million ransom. Police in Kuta are currently investigating the case, while the two female alleged ringleaders remain at large.

Extreme Weather Triggers Surge in Childhood Illnesses, IDAI Urges Parental Vigilance

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) has warned that climate change and extreme weather are driving a sharp rise in infectious and non-infectious diseases among children. Children are considered the most vulnerable group due to their developing immune systems and organs. The IDAI has issued guidance for parents, urging them to monitor air quality, maintain hydration and sanitation, eradicate mosquito breeding sites, and ensure immunisations are complete.

Four TNI Personnel Face Verdict in Acid Attack Case Against Activist Andrie Yunus

Four Indonesian military personnel are awaiting the verdict in their trial for a premeditated acid attack on KontraS deputy coordinator Andrie Yunus. Military prosecutors have sought a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for each defendant, arguing they planned the assault to 'teach a lesson' to the activist over his criticism of the TNI. The case has drawn significant attention to civil-military relations and state accountability.

US Bombs Iranian Air Defences and Radar Following Apache Downing Accusations

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched strikes against targets inside Iran, citing self-defence after an American Apache helicopter was allegedly shot down. President Donald Trump confirmed the retaliatory action, characterising it as a necessary and proportionate response. Tensions have spiked significantly following the incident, despite Trump referencing a previously strong deal with Tehran.

PT Pegadaian Named Best Company to Work For in Asia for Eighth Time

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has secured the HR Asia Best Company to Work For in Asia 2026 title for the eighth consecutive year. The company also swept four additional awards, underscoring its commitment to inclusivity, digital transformation, and sustainable workplace practices. The management hopes these accolades will further motivate its 14,000 employees to serve customers wholeheartedly and support the company's expansion, including its pioneering bullion ecosystem and first overseas outlet in Timor-Leste.

Prabowo Summons TNI Commander and Service Chiefs for Palace Meeting

President Prabowo Subianto received reports from top Indonesian military leaders on strategic programmes, including infrastructure development in remote regions. The Army reported its rural electrification programme in Papua has reached over 200 villages and that nearly 2,000 suspension bridges have been constructed nationwide. The initiatives underline the TNI's expanding role in supporting equitable development and community welfare.

Raffi Ahmad's Name Surfaces in Customs Case, Hotman Paris Steps In

Celebrity and presidential envoy Raffi Ahmad has been named in a corruption trial concerning alleged bribery related to imports at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Raffi has engaged prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea for legal counsel and denies any involvement, with a press conference scheduled to clarify the matter.

Air Pollution Triggers 7 Million Premature Deaths, Children Most Vulnerable: IDAI

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) has issued a stark warning about the global health threat posed by air pollution, linking it to approximately 7 million premature deaths annually. Children are identified as the most vulnerable group due to their narrower, developing respiratory tracts and immature immune systems, with pollutants causing both immediate and long-term health damage. The organisation is urging concrete mitigation steps, including reducing vehicle emissions and expanding urban green spaces.

Customs and Excise Reveals Why Finance Minister Unsealed Tiffany & Co. Stores

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise has detailed the reasons behind Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's decision to remove the seals from three Tiffany & Co. stores. The luxury jewellery retailer was previously sealed for alleged administrative violations related to import duties. The unsealing follows Tiffany & Co.'s commitment to settle an administrative fine, with customs issuing a total customs assessment bill of Rp97.49 billion.

US Launches Strikes, Explosions Heard on Iran's Southern Coast

The United States military has launched what it described as proportionate defensive strikes against Iran following the downing of an Apache helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media reported several explosions along the southern coast near the strategic waterway before later confirming the situation had become calm. The incident marks a sharp escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.