Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 June 2026

Showing 551-600 of 1,603 articles

Penjor Near Power Lines Can Be Hazardous, PLN Mandates 2.5 Metre Clearance

Ahead of the Galungan-Kuningan festival, the State Electricity Company (PLN) in Bali has urged residents to maintain a minimum 2.5-metre distance between decorative penjor poles and medium-voltage power lines. The company warned that stormy weather could blow parts of the penjor onto cables, risking power outages and electrical accidents. Community leaders emphasised the advisory is a precautionary safety measure, not a ban on the traditional practice.

Bontang Mayor Launches Weighing Operation Across 125 Posyandu

The Bontang municipal government has launched a comprehensive five-day child growth monitoring operation across 125 integrated health posts to combat stunting. Mayor Neni Moerniaeni stressed that intervention must address the entire lifecycle, from adolescent girls to sanitation, rather than focusing solely on toddlers. The administration is integrating health, anaemia, and poverty data to create more precise interventions aimed at reducing the stunting rate to below 10 per cent.

Jordan Deploys Air Defences to Intercept 20 Iranian Missiles

Jordan's military reported that its air defence systems intercepted 20 missiles launched from Iran towards the Azraq area on Thursday morning. The interception followed an announcement from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claiming a retaliatory strike on US military installations, including the Al-Azraq Air Base. Jordanian officials confirmed the debris fell without causing any casualties or material damage.

East Jakarta synchronises school committees and headmasters, socialises 2026 student admission system

The East Jakarta municipal government has initiated a coordination programme between school committees and headmasters to align understanding of the 2026/2027 new student admission system (SPMB). The Wali Kota emphasised the need for a transparent, fair, and accountable process through massive public outreach. The initiative aims to ensure equal access to quality education for all prospective students ahead of the new academic year.

Home Affairs Minister Outlines 2027 Work Plan to House, Ready to Support 23 Priority Programs

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has presented the ministry's strategic work programmes for 2027 to the House of Representatives, affirming its commitment to 23 national priority projects. The initiatives include post-disaster rehabilitation in Sumatra, constructing three million homes, and strengthening digital identity systems. To fund these efforts, the ministry is seeking a total budget allocation of Rp10.93 trillion, citing the current indicative ceiling of Rp4.65 trillion as insufficient.

ADIGSI Signs MoU with CREST to Develop Cybersecurity Standards and Talent

The Indonesian Digitalisation and Cyber Security Association (ADIGSI) has signed a memorandum of understanding with CREST International to boost cybersecurity standards and talent capacity in Indonesia. The agreement, signed during a UK-Indonesia bilateral meeting in London, aims to strengthen the national cybersecurity ecosystem and expand global market access for local professionals. ADIGSI concurrently signed MoUs with TechUK and ADS Group to foster industry networking between Indonesian and British technology organisations.

Prabowo Orders KAI Chief to Immediately Renovate Gambir Station

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the state railway operator PT KAI to promptly begin renovating Jakarta's historic Gambir Station, targeting completion within two years. PT KAI President Director Bobby Rasyidin stated the revitalised Gambir will become a national station, integrated with the electric commuter rail network. The president also discussed plans for Manggarai Station to serve as a future hub for interprovincial trains.

Indonesian beauty firms secure US$6.5 million Turkiye deals

Indonesian beauty manufacturers secured US$6.5 million in transaction commitments at an exhibition in Turkiye, signalling strong potential for market diversification beyond traditional commodities. The deals align with broader trade momentum, as bilateral trade reached US$873.8 million in the first four months of 2026, with Indonesia enjoying a significant surplus. The government views Turkiye as a promising high-value export destination and is encouraging deeper engagement to boost the global competitiveness of Indonesian products.

World Today: Police Hunt Killers in South Africa Mass Shooting, Hong Kong Charges Over Deadly Blaze

South African police are hunting over ten suspects after a mass shooting in a Johannesburg slum left twelve people dead. Elsewhere, an Indonesian military court has convicted four intelligence officers for an acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus, though rights groups have condemned the sentences as insufficient. Hong Kong authorities have also charged seven individuals and two companies in connection with a catastrophic apartment fire that claimed 168 lives last year.

Home Affairs Minister proposes bonuses for regional heads from own-source revenue

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has floated the idea of awarding regional heads a percentage of locally generated revenue as an incentive. The proposal was made in response to the recent spate of corruption arrests involving local leaders. Karnavian suggested that such bonuses could boost motivation to increase regional income without burdening citizens.

Building New Classrooms Boosts Local Economy, Says Education Ministry

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education says its school revitalisation programme is providing a dual benefit by improving learning environments and stimulating local economies. The scheme prioritises local labour and material purchases from nearby shops, creating jobs and circulating money within the community. The programme forms part of President Prabowo Subianto's Quick Best Results initiative.

Iran Confirms US Has Rendered Ceasefire Meaningless

Iran’s Foreign Ministry has declared that recent United States military strikes have effectively nullified the 8 April ceasefire. Tehran condemned the attacks as a blatant violation of the UN Charter and warned Washington of the consequences of escalation. The ministry also urged regional nations to prevent their territory from being used for aggression against Iran.

House Commission XI and Finance Minister Purbaya Agree on 2027 Macroeconomic Framework

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XI and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa have formally approved the 2027 Macroeconomic Framework and Fiscal Policy Principles (KEM-PPKF). The agreement sets ambitious economic targets, including growth of 5.8% to 6.5%, and marks the first time a president has directly presented the framework. The strategy emphasises boosting productive investment and strengthening synergies to accelerate growth and improve public welfare.

House Legislation Body Accelerates Drafting of Indigenous Peoples Bill

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Legislation Body is expediting the drafting of the Indigenous Peoples Bill by gathering input from various customary communities, including those in West Kalimantan. The initiative aims to strengthen legal protection and provide certainty on traditional rights for indigenous peoples across the country. The bill has been designated as a national legislative priority, with the body also updating its nomenclature based on academic and community feedback.

AGO Names New Suspect in Free Nutritious Meals Case for Colluding with Sony to Arrange SPPG Locations

The Attorney General's Office has named private sector figure Asep Yusuf Somantri as a new suspect in the corruption case surrounding the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Asep is alleged to have colluded with former BGN deputy head Sony Sonjaya to manipulate partner verifications and illicitly arrange the locations of Nutritional Fulfilment Service Units. The scheme reportedly involved revoking approved SPPG applications and facilitating late registrations in exchange for cash payments.

Ade Jona Prasetyo Elected Chairman of BPP Hipmi by Acclamation

Ade Jona Prasetyo has been unanimously elected as chairman of the Central Executive Board of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (BPP Hipmi) for the 2026-2029 period. He called for unity and resilience among young entrepreneurs to navigate geopolitical and geoeconomic uncertainties. The new chairman also pledged to support the government's economic growth target of 8 per cent by developing regional economic potential.

Transport Minister Responds to Pertamax Price Hike to Rp 16,250 per Litre

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has addressed the impact of the recent non-subsidised fuel price increase on the transportation sector, noting that calculations have been made by relevant authorities. The Energy Ministry explained that non-subsidised fuels like Pertamax follow market price mechanisms, making adjustments unavoidable when global oil prices rise. The government emphasised that protecting vulnerable groups reliant on subsidised fuel remains a key directive from the president.

Presidential Palace Targets One Month Completion for Free Nutritious Meals Programme Governance Overhaul

The Presidential Palace aims to complete the restructuring of the governance for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme within one month. The overhaul will involve auditing service units that fail to meet standard operating procedures and rationalising the number of kitchen locations, potentially leading to closures. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi stressed that the focus of the review is on regulatory compliance rather than the affiliation of the kitchen operators.

How Can a Private Party Promise to Alter a BPK Audit for Muara Enim Regency? The KPK Explains

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named a private individual, Augusz Dewanggara, as a suspect for allegedly accepting a bribe to manipulate the findings of a Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) report. The case stems from procurement irregularities involving smart boards within the Muara Enim Regency’s Education and Culture Office. The KPK detailed how the private actor coordinated with a rogue BPK official to condition the audit outcome in exchange for a fee, leading to a total of five suspects being charged.

Maize Becomes a Symbol of New Livelihood for Farmers in West Bandung

A national food security programme in West Bandung Regency has transformed idle land into thriving maize fields, offering a new source of income for local farmers. Facilitated by the Cimahi Police, the initiative has yielded over 377 tonnes of maize, with a significant portion purchased by the state logistics agency Bulog. The programme combines training, modern equipment, and direct market access to improve the economic welfare of the community.

Raffi Ahmad Addresses Name Being Dragged into Customs Corruption Case

Presidential Special Envoy Raffi Ahmad has clarified his fleeting connection to a cargo company implicated in a customs corruption trial. He stated that a photo taken outside the company's New York office and casual small talk about shipping a mobile phone were the full extent of his interaction. Ahmad insists there was no transactional relationship or further communication with Blueray Cargo.

Education Ministry: Two digital education innovations recognised by UN

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has announced that its 'Rumah Pendidikan' super-app and the 'Anugerah Bug Bounty' competition have been selected as Champion Projects in the UN's WSIS Prizes 2026. Minister Abdul Mu'ti stated the recognition validates the country's commitment to providing quality education through secure and inclusive digital public infrastructure. The initiatives are part of a presidential programme to address post-pandemic learning loss and improve literacy through digitalisation.

AGO Says Sony Sonjaya Could Intervene and Cancel SPPG Candidates

The Attorney General's Office has alleged that former BGN deputy chief Sony Sonjaya was able to manipulate the verification process for the Free Nutritious Meals programme's kitchen operators. Investigators claim an associate, using internal access, could identify vacant locations and cancel already-approved candidates to replace them with affiliated parties. The case involves further accusations of procurement mark-ups across the wider programme.

Easy Cross-Border Shopping Using Fasset Card Digital Wallet Balances

Fasset Global has launched the Fasset Card, a Visa-compatible payment instrument backed by stablecoins that does not require a conventional bank account. The card can be used at over 150 million merchants worldwide and is positioned as a strategic financial bridge between Gulf capital markets and Southeast Asia's digital economy. The launch was attended by the UAE Ambassador to Indonesia, underscoring the product's role in digital economic diplomacy.

Economic Challenges of Implementing Zero ODOL in 2027

The planned implementation of the zero ODOL (Over Dimension Over Loading) policy in January 2027 is widely supported for improving transport safety, but economists and logistics firms warn that premature enforcement could spike distribution costs and consumer goods prices. Experts argue the policy is deeply rooted in high national logistics costs and must be treated as both an economic and social policy, requiring a gradual, data-led transition. Industry associations are calling for fleet renewal subsidies, credit facilities, and tax incentives to prevent business bankruptcies and job losses in a sector contributing over 14 percent to GDP.

Indonesia turns to African oil amid Strait of Hormuz tensions

Indonesia is actively diversifying its crude oil imports by turning to African suppliers such as Algeria, Nigeria, and Angola to bypass the increasingly tense Strait of Hormuz. This strategic shift, confirmed by a senior security minister, aims to safeguard domestic energy security as around a quarter of the country's imports normally transit the volatile Persian Gulf chokepoint. State-owned Pertamina is also exploring Latin American sources as the government scrambles to secure alternative supplies amid the regional conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.

Hong Kong woman arrested in ketamine smuggling at Jakarta airport

Indonesian authorities at Soekarno-Hatta Airport have arrested a Hong Kong citizen for attempting to smuggle 10.8 kilograms of ketamine disguised as dietary supplements into the country. The drugs, valued at Rp10.9 billion, were discovered during a joint customs and police operation after the suspect arrived on a Paris-Dubai-Jakarta flight. The case highlights Indonesia's ongoing struggle against international drug syndicates targeting its large market, with the suspect facing up to 12 years in prison under strict pharmaceutical laws.

UK Says Indonesia Increasingly Ambitious, Ready to Provide This Support

The United Kingdom has assessed that Indonesia is becoming more ambitious in pursuing economic growth and strengthening its global position. British Ambassador Dominic Jermey expressed optimism about the bilateral relationship, citing the recent launch of a UK-Indonesia Strategic Partnership and an Economic Growth Partnership. The UK is ready to support Indonesia's reform agendas, including regulatory reform, green energy cooperation, and preparations for OECD membership.

US Strikes Iran Again, Three Injured in Tehran

Three people were reported injured following a series of incidents linked to renewed American strikes in Tehran Province, according to Iran's emergency services chief. Emergency medical teams were deployed to affected sites to treat the wounded, while public services remain on high alert. Iranian state media reported damage in several areas as a result of the attacks.

House Member Reminds Government Not to Only Chase KDKMP Quantity Targets

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has cautioned the government against focusing solely on the numerical target for Village/Subdistrict Red-and-White Cooperatives (KDKMP). The lawmaker stressed the importance of ensuring clear business models and viable locations to prevent the newly formed cooperatives from becoming neglected. The Minister of Cooperatives responded that the government has prepared feasibility studies and business model designs for the programme's operationalisation.

Banyuwangi Set to Become Exclusive Charter Hub for Santai Seaplane

Amphibious airline Santai Seaplane has selected Banyuwangi as its first operational base in Indonesia, citing the regency's strategic position between Java and Bali. The company plans to launch premium scenic flights targeting upmarket tourism, medical evacuation, and cargo services using Cessna Caravan 208 EX Amphibian aircraft by July 2026. Local officials have welcomed the move, expressing hope that the service will elevate Banyuwangi's status as a global tourism destination.

South Sulawesi Optimistic of Reaching IDR 21 Trillion Investment Target by 2026

South Sulawesi's investment authority is confident it will meet the IDR 21 trillion target set by the central government by 2026, driven by major mining and industrial projects. The optimism is largely pinned on the operational start of the Indonesia Huali Industrial Park (IHIP) nickel processing facility and construction of a gold mine. While nickel dominates exports, officials hope future investment will shift towards downstream processing of agricultural and fisheries commodities like seaweed to capture greater added value.

Health Minister: Drug Prices Rise 10-20 Per Cent Due to Rupiah Depreciation

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has stated that domestic drug prices could increase by 10 to 20 per cent as a consequence of the rupiah's weakening against the US dollar. He noted this rise is within reasonable limits, warning that manufacturers should not use the currency depreciation as an excuse for excessive profiteering. The minister assured that this increase will not affect medications covered by the national health insurance scheme BPJS Kesehatan.

Good News: Indonesia's Oil and Gas Assets in Venezuela Resume Operations

Indonesia's oil and gas assets in Venezuela, managed by Pertamina, have received approval to resume full operations, according to a senior diplomat. The government is simultaneously seeking alternative oil sources across South America and Africa to secure supply chains bypassing the Strait of Hormuz amid global energy volatility.

Bank Indonesia and PBOC Deepen Local Currency Cooperation, Here Are the Details

Bank Indonesia (BI) and the People's Bank of China (PBOC) have agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation by boosting the use of local currencies in transactions and strengthening cross-border payment connectivity. The agreements, signed during a high-level meeting in Shanghai, include increasing the Bilateral Currency Swap Arrangement value and launching QR-based cross-border payments. The initiative aims to improve transaction efficiency, support deeper regional financial integration, and foster closer digital economic ties between the two nations.

IDX and SW Indonesia Outline IPO Readiness Strategy for a Stronger Indonesia

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) and SW Indonesia are urging companies to use the current global economic uncertainty as an opportunity to strengthen internal governance in preparation for an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Speaking at a seminar in Jakarta, officials stressed that IPO preparation is a transformative journey that builds stricter internal controls and professional culture. They argued that a healthier pool of publicly listed companies is a catalyst for national economic growth, competitiveness, and job creation.

Former Finance Minister Says Issue of Replacing Purbaya is Resistance to New Paradigm

Former finance minister Fuad Bawazier has dismissed speculation about replacing Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa as an attempt to build negative perceptions of the government's new economic direction. He stated there has been no official discussion regarding a change, and linked the rumours to resistance from groups benefiting under the old system. Fuad also voiced support for a single-door export policy to strengthen control over export proceeds and uphold constitutional mandates.

US Pushes Back Against UK's Social Media Ban for Children, a Policy Already in Place in Indonesia

The United States government has urged Britain not to implement a proposed ban on social media for children under 16, arguing it would disproportionately impact American tech firms. Washington advocates for parental controls instead of blanket restrictions, while London prepares to announce new curbs on 'harmful' platforms. The UK policy follows Indonesia's PP Tunas regulation, which has already compelled eight major platforms to comply since March.

Joy for Risti: Daughter of Kulon Progo Project Labourer to Study for Free at UGM

Ristiana Artanti, the 19-year-old daughter of a project labourer from Kulon Progo, has secured a fully subsidised place at Universitas Gadjah Mada. Her parents, who live in economic hardship, expressed profound relief that their only child will not have to forgo higher education due to cost, as her mother once did. Risti hopes to use her health information management degree to improve healthcare services in remote areas.

AGO Names New Suspect in Alleged MBG Governance Corruption Case

The Attorney General's Office has named a private sector actor, Asep Yusuf Somantri, as a new suspect in the corruption case surrounding the governance of the free nutritious meals (MBG) programme. He is alleged to have collaborated with a former deputy chief of the National Nutrition Agency to manipulate the approval of meal kitchen providers and facilitate illicit payments. The case has already implicated the agency's former chief and two former deputies.

US Military Command Says Latest Strikes on Iran Have Concluded

The US military carried out strikes against Iranian surveillance, communications, and air defence facilities, which CENTCOM says have now concluded. Iran retaliated by targeting US military sites in Kuwait and Bahrain, while claiming to shut the Strait of Hormuz—a move Washington denied. Escalating rhetoric from both nations has prompted UN calls for de-escalation amid warnings of a widening regional crisis.

Iran Says US Strikes Render Ceasefire Meaningless

Iran's Foreign Ministry has declared that recent US strikes have effectively nullified the 8 April ceasefire, condemning the attacks as a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter. Tehran warned Washington would bear responsibility for the consequences of the escalation. The ministry also criticised the use of regional facilities by the US military, urging neighbouring states and the United Nations to unequivocally oppose the aggression.

IHSG Weakens as Investors Engage in Profit-Taking Amid Geopolitical Tensions

The Indonesia Stock Exchange composite index closed lower on Thursday as investors moved to lock in profits, reacting to heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a sharp correction on Wall Street. The decline was cushioned by reports that US strikes against Iran had concluded and by a positive domestic catalyst concerning government plans to streamline the budget for the free nutritious meal programme. Analysts suggest the IHSG still has an opportunity to resume its rally and test higher levels.

Bengkulu Governor: Danau Dendam Development Ready to Support Tourism Industry

The Bengkulu Provincial Government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Works, has commenced the landscaping phase of the Danau Dendam Tak Sudah (DDTS) area. A contract worth Rp37.12 billion has been awarded to transform the site into a modern, eco-friendly public space designed to boost the local economy. The project aims to establish a competitive new icon for the province, with total investment in the area's basic infrastructure already reaching Rp119 billion.

Minister: Private Sector and Cooperative Partnerships Key to Sustainable Economic Growth

Cooperatives and SMEs Minister Ferry Juliantono has emphasised that strategic partnerships between the private sector and cooperatives are crucial for building sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Indonesia. Speaking at a forum in Jakarta, he highlighted how such collaboration blends private sector innovation and market access with community-based participation. The minister also pointed to the government's new village cooperative programme, which has established 83,000 legal entities, as a vehicle requiring broad stakeholder collaboration to strengthen the rural economic foundation.

Home Affairs Minister Appreciates Indonesia–UK Partnership Across Multiple Sectors

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has praised the longstanding and multifaceted partnership between Indonesia and the United Kingdom, covering trade, defence, education, and environmental issues. Speaking at the 78th birthday celebration of King Charles III, he highlighted deep-rooted historical connections dating back to Sir Stamford Raffles and Alfred Russel Wallace. Tito also expressed personal gratitude for his UK education funded by the British Council.

Jakarta Government Prepares Traffic Engineering for 2026 Jakarta Fair

The DKI Jakarta provincial government has announced traffic management measures around Kemayoran to handle increased vehicle volume during the 2026 Jakarta Fair. Officials have prepared alternative routes, six parking areas with capacity for thousands of vehicles, and will deploy personnel alongside police to manage traffic flow. The public is encouraged to use public transport and follow on-site directions.

Police High School Attains Globally Recognised IBDP Certification

The Indonesian National Police's Kemala Taruna Bhayangkara High School has secured the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme certificate. The certification was presented by the IBO's finance chief in a ceremony led by General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. The achievement aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's vision to develop elite schools to prepare future leaders for the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Minister Dispatches 200 Youth to Japan in Village Development Drive

The Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions has sent 200 participants from the first batch of the 'Pemuda Bangun Desa Bangun Indonesia' programme to Japan. The initiative aims to equip rural youth with global experience and skills so they can return to create jobs and spur development in their home villages. The move aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's vision of building the nation from the grassroots level.

Indonesia nabs Australian fugitive hiding in private jet lavatory

Indonesian authorities in Bali arrested an Australian fugitive attempting to flee the country concealed in an aircraft lavatory, highlighting robust immigration enforcement. The suspect, identified in media as an alleged motorbike gang member wanted by Interpol for drug trafficking, was swiftly deported back to Australia. Officials have reiterated their commitment to preventing the island from becoming a haven for international criminals.