Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 June 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,647 articles

Adidaya Institute Survey: Majority Feel Economy Is Improving Amid Global Uncertainty

A recent survey by the Adidaya Institute reveals that over 60 per cent of Indonesians believe their household and national economic conditions have improved compared to last year. The public also expressed strong optimism regarding the government's rice self-sufficiency target and high satisfaction with flagship programmes like free health checks. However, citizens remain sensitive to potential fuel price hikes and have called for better governance in the implementation of social programmes.

Independent Village Cares for Mangroves: Government Programme Strengthens Coastal Community Empowerment

The Indonesian government is advancing coastal community empowerment through the Desa Mandiri Peduli Mangrove (DMPM) programme, which focuses on sustainable mangrove management. Fifteen community groups across Indonesia have been selected this year to implement diverse projects, ranging from aquaculture to conservation-based tourism infrastructure. The initiative aims to foster self-reliant villages by placing local communities at the forefront of protecting vital mangrove ecosystems.

Prabowo Inaugurates New Regional Hospital in Lampung, Prioritising Remote Rural Communities

President Prabowo Subianto has officially opened the KH. Muhammad Thohir Krui Regional General Hospital in West Pesisir Regency, Lampung, as part of the government's flagship rapid results programme (PHTC). The facility, upgraded to a Class C hospital with a comprehensive range of services including ICU and haemodialysis, aims to improve healthcare access in disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions. The government plans to build or renovate up to 400 hospitals and modernise 10,000 community health centres nationwide to prevent deaths caused by delayed medical treatment.

Jambi Police Hand Over Alung, Suspect in 58 Kg Methamphetamine Courier Case, to Prosecutors

Jambi Regional Police have transferred Alung, a 23-year-old suspected drug courier, to the public prosecutor after his case file was declared complete. Alung was arrested in connection with a 58.2 kg methamphetamine seizure and had previously escaped police custody for six months. He is part of a suspected transnational drug network, with one other suspect still at large.

National Police Chief: Posting Officers to Civilian Posts Based on Agency Needs

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has clarified that the deployment of police personnel to civilian government posts will be strictly selective and based solely on official requests. The process must follow statutory mechanisms under the newly revised Polri Law, including oversight by the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform. Sigit emphasised that the police will not unilaterally assign officers without a demonstrated need from other state institutions.

Organic Waste Can Become Economically Valuable Products

Organic waste, often destined for landfills, can be transformed into useful products with economic value through simple management techniques. Allianz Indonesia's Eco Enzyme programme is teaching students and communities in Jakarta to ferment fruit peels and vegetable scraps into cleaning fluids, fertilisers, and even therapeutic pillows. The initiative aligns with Jakarta's provincial policy of encouraging waste sorting and processing at the source.

Canada's eTA facility for Indonesians to strengthen bilateral ties: Ambassador

The Canadian government has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) facility for Indonesian nationals to simplify travel and bolster bilateral relations. Ambassador Jess Dutton announced the policy, effective 26 May 2026, as part of a broader strategy to facilitate trade, investment, and people-to-people connections. The move comes alongside the ratification of the ICA-CEPA trade agreement as both nations seek to deepen engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

PT SMI Channels Rp950 Billion Sharia Credit to Indika Energy Subsidiaries to Support Clean Energy

Indonesian state-owned infrastructure financier PT SMI has disbursed Rp950 billion in sharia-compliant financing to two subsidiaries of Indika Energy to accelerate rooftop solar power projects. The funding will support solar panel installations for the commercial and industrial sector using a zero-capex leasing model. PT SMI's total green financing portfolio has now reached Rp27.6 trillion, reinforcing its role as the country's Energy Transition Mechanism platform manager.

US-Israel Conflict with Iran Predicted to Last Until October

An international relations expert predicts the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran will persist until October 2027, citing Israel's domestic political calendar. Negotiations remain deadlocked as Iran refuses to halt its nuclear programme and the US maintains asset freezes, while the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint for a global energy crisis.

President says nationalism fuels long-term economic growth

President Prabowo Subianto has argued that nationalism is the essential driver of sustained economic development, citing historical precedents from major world economies. Speaking at a young entrepreneurs' conference, he urged business leaders to keep capital and investments at home while leveraging domestic markets. He also reaffirmed Indonesia’s ambition to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2045 through industrial strengthening and tighter export oversight.

Many Aspiring Doctors Repeatedly Fail Competency Exams, Expert Urges Stricter Evaluation of Medical Faculties

A senior academic has called for a thorough evaluation of medical faculties with high failure rates on the national doctor competency examination. The issue affects many students who have repeatedly failed the UKMPPD, sometimes over extended periods, prompting demands for coordinated government action. The intervention seeks to maintain high medical standards without compromising the quality of care for the public.

Social Affairs Minister Requests Rp22.4 Trillion Budget Increase for 2027

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has asked Parliament to approve an additional Rp22.49 trillion for his ministry's 2027 budget, warning that current indicative ceilings are insufficient. The minister argued that despite receiving new mandates, the ministry's allocation has seen a sharp decline over the past two years. He cautioned that without the increase, critical social assistance programmes, operational activities, and new initiatives like 'people's schools' would be severely hampered.

Pertamax Price Rises to Rp 16,250 per Litre, BP BUMN Chief Speaks Out

Indonesia's Supervisory Board for State-Owned Enterprises (BP BUMN) has endorsed the increase in Pertamax fuel price to Rp 16,250 per litre, citing alignment with global market rates. The board's head argued the price remains partly compensated and will not stoke inflation as it primarily serves middle-to-upper income groups. The adjustment has received approval from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

Bappenas: Indonesian Industry Has Capability to Become Part of Global Green Supply Chain

Indonesia's Minister for National Development Planning, Rachmat Pambudy, asserts that the nation's industry possesses the capability to integrate into the global green supply chain. He highlighted the Tennet 2GW HVDC project in Batam as tangible evidence, where Indonesian workers and engineers are heavily involved in manufacturing components for Europe's energy transition. The project is projected to absorb 6,000 local workers by 2029 and strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesian human resources.

Law Ministry Proposes Additional Rp837.18 Billion Budget for 2027

Indonesia's Ministry of Law has submitted a supplementary budget request of Rp837.18 billion for the 2027 fiscal year, aimed at fulfilling its duties as well as refurbishing office buildings and official residences. However, Commission XIII of the House of Representatives (DPR) rejected the proposal, stating that spending on building rehabilitation does not reflect the government's efficiency principles. Lawmakers urged the ministry to refocus its budget on legal aid programmes and public legal literacy.

Veda Ega Shines Bright, Plans Emerge for Circuit Near Prambanan

Following the international success of young motorcycle racers from Yogyakarta, including Veda Ega Pratama, plans have been announced to build a permanent racing circuit in the Ratu Boko area near Prambanan, Sleman Regency. The facility is intended to serve as a training and development hub for the region's athletes, who currently lack local practice tracks. Regional sports officials are calling for broad support, particularly from the local government, to expedite the project's realisation.

JCI and Rupiah Dynamics: Ex-TKN Member Urges Public to Scrutinise Resistance to Strategic Programmes

A former member of Prabowo-Gibran's campaign team alleges that recent stock market and currency volatility is not a natural market response but a coordinated destabilisation attack involving domestic oligarchs, multinational corporations, and regional neighbours. Haris Rusly Moti claims these groups are systematically pushing negative narratives to undermine confidence in President Prabowo's progressive economic policies. He called on students and observers to scrutinise the situation carefully while acknowledging that the government's programme implementation still requires technocratic strengthening.

Accompanied by Lampung Governor, Prabowo Inaugurates KH Muhammad Thohir Hospital

President Prabowo Subianto, accompanied by Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal, has inaugurated the KH Muhammad Thohir Regional General Hospital in Pesisir Barat Regency. The facility, built with a central government budget of Rp152.99 billion, aims to provide equitable healthcare access for remote coastal communities. The hospital significantly increases bed capacity to 137 and will handle critical conditions to reduce the need for distant referrals.

Hipmi: Government Strategic Programmes Play Role in Growing Regional MSMEs

The Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (Hipmi) has affirmed that strategic government programmes are vital for nurturing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in regional areas. Chairman Akbar Himawan Buchari highlighted the organisation's digital transformation and its commitment to building a sustainable ecosystem for business upgrading. Hipmi views government initiatives on food and energy security as significantly impactful for creating new entrepreneurs across the country.

ASDP Explores Surabaya–Lewoleba Ro-Ro Route, Targets Maiden Voyage on 12 October 2026

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is exploring a new long-distance roll-on/roll-off route directly connecting Surabaya to Lewoleba in East Nusa Tenggara's Lembata Regency. The initiative aims to reduce logistics costs and expand market access for local agricultural and fishery products. The Lembata regent has set a target for the inaugural sailing on 12 October 2026, coinciding with Regional Autonomy Day.

Government to Reorganise 8,617 Free Meal Programme Kitchens Deemed Outside 3T Scheme

The Indonesian government is set to reorganise thousands of locations for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme after 8,617 kitchens were established outside the mandated priority scheme for disadvantaged regions. The Presidential Staff Office revealed instances of inflated beneficiary figures, potential misuse of location permits as bank collateral, and lease-back schemes that may have disadvantaged the state. A comprehensive evaluation will ensure the programme adheres to Presidential Regulation No. 12 of 2025, focusing on quality and fiscal prudence.

Glass Bridge in Tangerang Built for Rp33 Billion Cracks, Sparking Safety Fears

A glass-floored bridge in Tangerang, constructed with Rp33 billion from the regional budget, has developed cracks in its flying deck, raising public safety concerns. The bridge, inaugurated in 2018, serves as both a pedestrian link and a tourist attraction. Local authorities have cordoned off the area and are conducting a technical assessment ahead of repairs.

Qodari: WFH Policy for Civil Servants Saves Rp1.94 Trillion in Budget

The Indonesian government's new work-from-home policy for civil servants has generated significant budget savings of Rp1.94 trillion in its first two months, primarily from reduced official travel. The initiative, which began in April 2026, also saved an additional Rp65.61 billion on utilities such as electricity and fuel. The policy aims to overhaul bureaucratic work culture towards greater efficiency and digital-based governance under President Prabowo Subianto's direction.

US Adds Alibaba and Baidu to List of Chinese Military Affiliates

The United States Department of Defence has added Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba and internet services firm Baidu to a list of companies it considers affiliated with China's military. The designation does not trigger immediate sanctions but prohibits the Pentagon from contracting directly with them or using their products and services through third parties, potentially impacting their business. The move comes alongside the addition of Chinese semiconductor firms to the list and amid calls from US senators to tighten restrictions on the industry.

MPR Deputy Speaker Stresses Importance of Stable and Equitable Electricity System

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Lestari Moerdijat, has highlighted that a stable and evenly distributed electricity system is crucial for supporting economic stability and bolstering national resilience. Speaking at an online forum, she noted Indonesia faces serious geographical challenges due to the spatial mismatch between load centres and abundant renewable energy sources. Moerdijat urged for meticulous planning and concrete action to ensure reliable and equitable power supply across the archipelago.

BMKG places one district in NTB on drought alert status

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has placed Bima Regency in West Nusa Tenggara under a meteorological drought alert as the El Niño phenomenon intensifies. Donggo subdistrict has recorded the longest dry spell, with 40 consecutive days without rain. Residents across the province, which is now fully in the dry season, are urged to conserve water and remain vigilant against forest and land fires.

Prabowo Stunned! Rural Women Hit with 24% Loan Interest

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed shock over the high interest rates charged to low-income women under a state-backed microcredit programme, contrasting them with the single-digit rates offered to large corporations. He pledged to rectify such economic anomalies and urged a return to the principles of Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. The President made the remarks during the opening of the 18th National Conference of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association.

Industry Ministry proposes Rp1.59 T additional budget to boost value-added programmes

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has proposed an additional budget of Rp1.59 trillion for 2027 to strengthen value-added programmes amid a declining indicative ceiling. The funds will target small industry empowerment, downstreaming, machinery restructuring, and development of a domestic machine-making sector. Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita also highlighted progress in the electric vehicle industry, with local content exceeding 60 per cent.

Trump Frustrated with Iran's Lengthy Negotiations: 'They Must Pay the Price!'

US President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with Iran, accusing it of prolonged negotiations and warning that it 'must pay the price'. This stark rhetoric marks a departure from his earlier optimism about concluding peace talks, following a reported US retaliatory strike on Iran.

PTPN III and KPK Sign Cooperation Agreement on Complaint Handling

State-owned plantation holding company PTPN III has signed a cooperation agreement with Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to strengthen anti-corruption efforts. The deal focuses on integrated complaint handling, regulatory reinforcement, and data synergy to enhance corporate governance. Executives said the collaboration supports the company's downstream processing programmes and contributes to the national anti-corruption agenda.

Islah Bahrawi at Police Station, Highlights Dangers If Everyone Must Stay Silent

NU activist Islah Bahrawi fulfilled a police summons in Jakarta over alleged incitement for remarks critics claim were a call to overthrow President Prabowo. Bahrawi argues his statements are an amplification of grassroots voices too afraid to speak up and a form of patriotic criticism. Legal advocates and YLBHI have condemned the report as a tactic to silence dissent and have urged police to halt the investigation.

Companies Must Strengthen Employee Engagement in the Era of Flexible Work

A Gallup report reveals only 27 per cent of Indonesian workers feel highly engaged with their companies, contributing to the global 'quiet quitting' trend. Bosch Indonesia has been recognised as a Best Company to Work for in Asia 2026 after exceeding market averages in flexible working, open communication, and meaningful work.

Rupiah Weakens, Bandung's Pasar Baru Swarmed by Malaysian Tourists

Malaysian tourists flocked to Pasar Baru Trade Center in Bandung on Wednesday morning, capitalising on the rupiah's depreciation to 17,953 per US dollar. Visitors purchased batik and other clothing items, taking advantage of their increased purchasing power. The currency weakness provided a boon for tourists, allowing them to buy more goods during their holiday.

Jakarta Anniversary: 50% Discount on Electricity Power Upgrades

State electricity firm PLN is offering a 50 per cent discount on power upgrade fees for all customer categories in Jakarta from 10 to 23 June 2026. The promotion marks the city's 499th anniversary and aims to boost economic activity, particularly for small and medium enterprises. Eligible customers must be registered since May 2026 and have no outstanding electricity bills.

Prabowo Urges Young Entrepreneurs to Build Economy on Nationalism

President Prabowo Subianto has called on young entrepreneurs to recognise nationalism as the key driver of sustained economic growth, citing academic thought. Speaking at the HIPMI national conference, he argued that the rise of major global powers validates this link. He emphasised the organisation's vital role in cultivating future national leaders.

BMKG warns of high wave risks in several Southeast Sulawesi waters

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a high wave warning for multiple areas in Southeast Sulawesi from 10 to 13 June 2026. The alert, driven by easterly to southerly wind patterns, primarily affects parts of the Banda Sea and around Wakatobi. Maritime transport operators and fishermen have been urged to exercise heightened vigilance.

US Diplomacy Accompanied by Strikes That Shatter Iran's Trust

Iran's Foreign Ministry has accused the United States of undermining diplomatic efforts through contradictory messages and repeated ceasefire violations, warning that negotiation processes are being damaged. The accusations, made by spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, come amid reports of US fighter jet strikes on Iranian territories. Tehran has also signalled it will review conditions for future talks based on these hostile actions.

Revealed: The Real Reason Pertamina Raised Pertamax Fuel Prices

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has cited surging global oil prices driven by geopolitical tensions as the reason for raising the price of non-subsidised Pertamax fuel to Rp 16,250 per litre. The company stated that despite the increase, the new price remains well below the economic price of up to Rp 21,000 per litre, as it prioritises balancing public affordability with national supply security. The adjustment, effective 10 June 2026, comes after Pertamina held the price for months despite other non-subsidised fuels experiencing increases since April.

Customs Bribery Trial: Former Official Admits to Existence of Unaccountable Funds

A former senior intelligence officer at Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise has testified about the existence of an illegal, off-the-books operational fund used for urgent matters. The witness, Sisprian Subiaksono, stated that the funds, derived from leftover state budget allocations, were deliberately concealed from law enforcement due to their unaccountable nature. His testimony was given during the trial of businessman John Field, who is accused of orchestrating billions of rupiah in bribes to customs officials to facilitate imports.

PWI-Bank Jakarta Introduces Financial Literacy Category for 2026 MHT Awards

The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) Jaya and Bank Jakarta have launched a special financial literacy category for the 2026 Mohammad Hoesni Thamrin (MHT) Journalistic Works Competition. The initiative aims to enhance public understanding of Bank Jakarta's role in regional economic development, focusing on digital transformation and MSME empowerment. Journalists can submit entries in feature news, opinion articles, and photo features, with winners receiving trophies and cash prizes up to Rp15 million.

National Library Launches Book on Asrul Sani's Intellectual Legacy as He Turns 101

The National Library of Indonesia has released a comprehensive two-volume book to mark the 101st birthday of the late literary and film icon Asrul Sani. The 1,784-page work documents his extensive influence on Indonesian culture, with the Minister of Religious Affairs praising his unique cultural approach to religious outreach. The publication aims to reinforce cultural literacy and preserve the intellectual heritage of the nation.

East Java Regional Heads Reject Health Ministry's Plain Packaging Rule

Leaders across East Java have united in opposing the Health Ministry's proposed plain packaging regulation for tobacco products, warning it would harm farmers and slash regional revenues. The province contributes over 60 per cent of national tobacco excise receipts, with local chiefs calling for the central government to protect livelihoods before imposing new health policies. The ministry, meanwhile, is pressing ahead with the draft regulation, insisting it prioritises public health protection.

Ambon City Government Opens Economic Empowerment Opportunities for Productive Elderly

The Ambon City Government is launching economic empowerment programmes for elderly citizens who remain productive, aiming to enhance their welfare and independence. Mayor Bodewin M Wattimena stated that attention for the elderly extends beyond healthcare to include initiatives that allow them to stay active and contribute socio-economically. The administration is also strengthening health services, including plans for a hospital prioritising the underprivileged.

Defence Minister Reviews National Car Project Progress in Subang

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has inspected the development of the National Car Project manufacturing facility in Subang, West Java. The project, designated a national strategic installation, aims for an initial production capacity of 50,000 vehicles per year by 2028, scaling up to 300,000 units annually. It is expected to create approximately 2,000 jobs and foster an integrated automotive ecosystem with a focus on electric vehicle technology.

Hanania Travel Case: Thariq Halilintar Admits to Receiving Umrah Endorsement

Celebrity Thariq Halilintar has confirmed he received a free umrah trip as part of an endorsement deal with Hanania Travel, the company at the centre of an alleged fraud case. His lawyer stated that while Thariq and his wife's trip was covered by the company, they paid nearly Rp170 million for other family members. Police have named Hanania Group's CEO as a suspect, alleging that funds from prospective pilgrims were misused to pay influencers for promotional purposes.

Legislator: Vehicle Tax Amnesty Proves Policy Sides with Citizens

A Jakarta councillor has praised the provincial government's vehicle tax amnesty as a pro-people policy that eases economic burdens. Councillor August Hamonangan urged residents to utilise the penalty-free period to settle their motor vehicle tax and transfer fees, thereby boosting much-needed regional revenue. The three-month amnesty, which runs from 1 June to 31 August, commemorates Jakarta's 499th anniversary and Indonesia's 81st Independence Day.

Questioned for 7 Hours, Thariq Halilintar Explains Hanania Travel Endorsement

Celebrity Thariq Halilintar and his wife Aaliyah Massaid underwent seven hours of police questioning over an alleged umrah fraud involving Hanania Travel. The couple stated they had accepted a barter endorsement deal providing a free pilgrimage in exchange for social media promotion, unaware the company was troubled. They expressed shock over the situation and sympathy for the defrauded victims.

Gianyar Posyandu distributes 8,700 plant seedlings to support village aesthetics

The Posyandu Development Team in Gianyar, Bali, has distributed 8,700 flower seedlings to ten villages to enhance rural aesthetics and promote a healthy environment. The initiative aims to bolster community participation and the culture of mutual cooperation in environmental management, particularly in preparation for a provincial-level 'telajakan' competition. 'Telajakan' refers to the green open space between a house's front yard and the road, integral to Balinese cultural and social harmony.

Qodari: WFH Policy Does Not Lower Civil Servant Performance, Public Services Remain Stable

Head of the Government Communication Body, Muhammad Qodari, has asserted that the one-day work-from-home policy for civil servants has not diminished their performance or the quality of public services. Data from the Ministry of PANRB indicates that 95 per cent of public services nationwide remained stable during the WFH period. The policy is framed as a comprehensive shift in bureaucratic working methods towards greater productivity and results-oriented flexibility.

E5 Petrol Mandate Set to Roll Out in July 2026, National Energy Council Reveals Readiness

Indonesia's National Energy Council (DEN) is finalising preparations for the mandatory 5% bioethanol blend in petrol (E5), slated for launch in several regions from July 2026. The rollout coincides with the B50 biodiesel mandate and involves assessing the economic feasibility of domestic ethanol plants. The programme will initially cover six provinces, including East Java and Jakarta, before expanding to more regions and a higher 10% blend by 2028.