Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 June 2026

Showing 751-800 of 1,603 articles

Free Nutritious Meal Budget to Be Cut Again, Palace Says Funding Needs Could Drop Below IDR 268 Trillion

The Indonesian government has signalled that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme may be reduced further from its current ceiling of IDR 268 trillion. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi stated that a comprehensive governance review indicates the programme's real funding requirements are likely lower than initial projections. The recalculation, conducted with the Ministry of Finance and the National Nutrition Agency, follows a previous cut from an original allocation of IDR 335 trillion.

Police Examine Praz Teguh and Paula Verhoeven, Investigating Hanania Travel Umrah Endorsements

Indonesian police are investigating comedians and influencers, including Praz Teguh and Paula Verhoeven, over their promotional work for Hanania Travel, a company allegedly involved in a fraudulent umrah scheme. Authorities are scrutinising the complimentary pilgrimage trips provided to the influencers in exchange for social media exposure. The investigation aims to provide transparency to victims as the CEO of Hanania Travel has been named a suspect for fraud and money laundering.

BTS Ticket War Tension: Between Joy for Success and Heartbreak for Failure

General sale tickets for the 'BTS World Tour Arirang in Jakarta' sold out within hours of release on Thursday, with the official ticketing partner confirming all tickets were fully paid. The rush saw tickets marked 'fully booked' within minutes, but some were later released as incomplete transactions failed, exemplifying the intense demand. Promoter iMe Indonesia explained the distinction between reserved and fully purchased status, while fans shared stories of their determined, multi-device efforts to secure a place at the concert.

Acclamation: Ade Jona Leads Hipmi, Urges Young Entrepreneurs to Develop Regional Economic Potential

Ade Jona Prasetyo has been unanimously elected as Chairman of the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (Hipmi) for the 2026-2029 term. He called for unity among members to confront complex economic challenges and emphasised focusing on developing local economic strengths across the archipelago. Jona stated that strengthening regional economies is key to achieving equitable development and supporting the government's national growth targets.

Minister presses for security safeguards in AI innovation

An Indonesian minister has stressed that data security and ethical frameworks are foundational to successful artificial intelligence innovation. Speaking at an event in Jakarta, she outlined four pillars for AI governance, including transparent digital governance and secure data management. The government is drafting a legal framework to ensure AI development prioritises public safety while driving economic growth and social progress.

Mobile Phone Prices Skyrocket, ITC Traders Cry Poor Sales

The weakening rupiah against the US dollar and a global chip shortage are driving steep price increases for electronics in Indonesia. Traders at ITC Kuningan report price hikes across all categories, from smartphones to memory cards, with some items tripling in cost. The surge in demand for AI chips has squeezed conventional chip supply, forcing manufacturers to raise prices and prompting consumers to delay purchases.

Tanker Struck by US Attack off Oman Coast, Three Indian Sailors Killed

Three Indian crew members aboard the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello have been confirmed dead following a US military strike off the coast of Oman near the Strait of Hormuz. India's shipping minister announced the fatalities and has demanded the swift repatriation of survivors and the deceased. New Delhi summoned a senior US diplomat to lodge a strong protest, marking the second attack on an India-linked merchant vessel this week amid escalating US-Iran hostilities.

House Commission IV Supports Rp17.73 Trillion Additional Budget for National Food Agency

The House of Representatives' Commission IV has approved a proposed budget increase of Rp17.73 trillion for the National Food Agency (Bapanas) for the 2027 fiscal year. The additional funds are earmarked for bolstering food assistance programmes, stabilising food prices, and securing national food availability. The bulk of the allocation will support the Government Food Reserves, including rice aid and stunting alleviation efforts.

How North Maluku Protects the Environment Amidst Nickel Downstream Processing

North Maluku Governor Sherly Tjoanda Laos has reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to balancing economic development from nickel resources with environmental protection. The administration is pushing mining companies to implement Good Mining Practices and ESG principles, while closely monitoring reclamation efforts to restore forest functions. Beyond nickel downstream processing, the province is also developing new economic growth sectors including agriculture, fisheries, and coconut processing.

Ma'had UIN Malang Prepares Students to Become Pioneers in the Digital Era

The State Islamic University (UIN) Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang is strengthening its integrated pesantren-university model to equip students with spiritual and intellectual fortitude for the digital age. The institution aims to balance EQ, IQ, and SQ among its students by requiring first-year students to live in the Ma'had Al-Jamiah dormitory. A proposed collaboration with Lumbung Coin Eco-Resort seeks to extend this digital skills training, while the House of Representatives recently approved an additional Rp50.1 billion loan to complete a national strategic project at the university.

Jakarta Millennial Film Workshop 2026 to Strengthen East Jakarta Creative Economy

The East Jakarta municipal government believes a short film workshop under the Jakarta Millennial Film Festival 2026 will bolster the creative economy by nurturing young film talent. A senior official emphasised the growing economic opportunities in audio-visual content driven by digital technology. The initiative aims to position East Jakarta as a hub for young filmmakers and strengthen the national creative industry ecosystem.

BIN Chief Responds to Student Alliance's Call for 'Reform Jilid II'

The head of Indonesia's State Intelligence Agency (BIN) has urged the public to safeguard national unity in response to student groups planning a 'Reform Jilid II' protest. The student alliance is demanding government action on the weakening rupiah and rising living costs. The government has acknowledged the students' aspirations but stressed the complexity of the current economic challenges.

Central Lombok Religious Affairs Official Questioned Over Santri Allegedly Set Alight by Friend

Police in Central Lombok have questioned an official from the local Ministry of Religious Affairs as part of an investigation into a case where three Islamic boarding school students were allegedly set on fire by a peer. The questioning focused on verifying the legality of the Islamic boarding school's founding permits. The case has prompted a broader investigation, with police planning to consult criminal law experts to ensure legal certainty.

Abu Dhabi, China Tycoons Storm Nusantara Capital, Vying to Build

Global heavyweight investors from Abu Dhabi and China are pouring funds into Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara (IKN), moving projects from the drawing board into construction. The IKN Authority revealed that committed private investment has reached Rp73 trillion, with the ADIA-funded Abu Dhabi project alone valued at Rp10 trillion for offices, retail, and religious facilities. The influx signals growing confidence and a strategic shift towards public-private partnerships to drive the new city's commercial development.

Oversight of Sekolah Rakyat Head Teachers Needs Strengthening

The chairman of the Sekolah Rakyat formulation team has stressed the need for continuous monitoring and capacity building for head teachers as the programme completes nearly one year. Mohammad Nuh also urged administrators to ensure budgetary efficiency and evaluate the programme based on public perception, feeling and reasoning, not just outputs. A government report shows 59 of the 166 pilot schools have gained accreditation, with recruitment underway for significant additional teaching and administrative staff.

Food Stocks in Denpasar and Badung Secure Ahead of Galungan, Flower Prices Rise

Authorities in Denpasar and Badung have confirmed that staple food supplies remain secure ahead of the Galungan holiday, despite price increases for several commodities. Monitoring at key markets showed moderate hikes for chillies, shallots, and garlic, while rice stocks are sufficient for up to six months. Concurrently, a surge in demand has caused significant price rises for ceremonial flowers at the Baha Flower Market.

Jusuf Kalla Accompanied by Son Solihin Kalla Meets Prabowo at Palace

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla visited President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, accompanied by his son and Kalla Group CEO, Solihin Kalla. The meeting, requested by Kalla, underscores Prabowo's openness to engaging with national figures and business leaders. The government emphasised that such dialogues are part of efforts to strengthen national unity and foster collaboration for the country's progress.

Transport Minister Reports to President on Progress of Level Crossing Closures

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has briefed President Prabowo Subianto on the accelerated closure of level crossings, with 172 already shut and 490 more in progress. The Greater Jakarta area accounts for the largest share of remaining crossings, as the government seeks to address persistent safety hazards. Plans are also in place to establish Manggarai Station as a transport hub.

Coordinating Minister Zulhas: SPPG Locations Swell by 6,877 Points

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan revealed that the number of service points for the Free Nutritious Meals programme has unexpectedly increased by 6,877, raising concerns over potential trading of project locations. The expansion from the initial plan of 21,000 points could result in budget wastage exceeding Rp1 trillion per month. The government plans to restructure the programme within a month to address the irregularities.

Hajj Flight Group PDG 07 Arrives in Minangkabau, One Pilgrim from Bengkulu Receives Further Treatment

Flight Group 07 from Padang Debarkation, carrying 391 pilgrims, has safely arrived at Minangkabau International Airport. An elderly pilgrim from Bengkulu was immediately referred to a central public hospital for a fractured femur and breathing difficulties. The group also mourned the loss of a pilgrim who passed away during the hajj in Saudi Arabia.

Indonesia Turns to African Alternative Oil Sources to Mitigate Energy Volatility

Indonesia is increasingly relying on oil supplies from African nations such as Algeria, Nigeria, and Angola to navigate energy disruptions caused by tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The government confirms that sourcing crude from regions bypassing the volatile chokepoint has kept national supply stable. State energy firm Pertamina is actively diversifying its import origins as two of its tankers remain stranded in the Arabian Gulf region.

Indodax Partners with IAS Hospitality to Enhance Airport Service Ecosystem

Indonesian crypto exchange Indodax has partnered with IAS Hospitality to offer its nearly 10 million members exclusive benefits at airport lounges across the country. The collaboration aims to enhance the travel experience for the platform's predominantly Millennial and Gen Z user base. It reflects a broader push to integrate digital asset industry players into the lifestyle and travel sectors.

JCI Weakens to 5,874 Due to US-Iran Tensions and Closure of the Strait of Hormuz

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell 0.47% on Thursday, driven by heightened geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran. Iran's military command announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to a new wave of US attacks, triggering a risk-off sentiment among investors. Market participants are also monitoring domestic factors including planned mass demonstrations and pressure on the rupiah exchange rate.

Jusuf Kalla Meets Prabowo at the Palace

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla met with President Prabowo Subianto at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, accompanied by his son and Kalla Group CEO Solihin Kalla. The meeting, requested by Kalla, was framed by the Cabinet Secretary as part of Prabowo's ongoing dialogue with national figures and business leaders to foster collaboration. It took place amid public attention on various economic issues, a subject Kalla has recently commented on regarding fiscal conditions.

Environment Ministry declares Bali mandatory waste sorting from July 1

Indonesia's Environment Minister has announced that mandatory waste sorting at source will take effect across Bali from 1 July, encompassing households, communities, and commercial sectors. The policy builds on a successful trial banning organic waste from landfills, which slashed volumes in Denpasar and Badung by 60 percent, and paves the way for waste-to-energy facilities under a national presidential regulation. Officials aim to position Bali as Southeast Asia’s first major tourist destination to achieve zero waste to landfill.

Filep Wamafma Urges Formation of Anti-Illegal Levy Task Force at Immigration Offices

DPD RI Committee III Chairman Filep Wamafma has called on President Prabowo Subianto to establish a special law enforcement task force to prevent illegal levies within immigration offices. The senator argues such a unit is crucial to ensure clean and transparent public services, particularly to protect Indonesian migrant workers from exploitative administrative practices. The demand follows recent complaints and a high-profile case implicating a deputy minister.

Purbaya Unveils 2027 Economic Strategy Centred on Boosting Growth

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has outlined the government's 2027 strategy, targeting economic growth of 5.8-6.5 per cent with a trajectory towards 8 per cent by 2029. The approach relies on a strong synergy between fiscal and monetary policy while leveraging Danantara to accelerate high-value investments. Efforts will focus on deregulation and cutting bureaucratic bottlenecks to eliminate structural barriers.

Foreign Ministry: '100 Years of Jam Gadang' Affirms Indonesian Cultural Diplomacy

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has highlighted the centenary of the Jam Gadang clock tower as a landmark moment for cultural diplomacy. A recent seminar in Bukittinggi, part of the International Minangkabau Literacy Festival, drew delegates from 37 countries, underscoring the growing global interest in Minangkabau heritage as a bridge for international collaboration. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging West Sumatra's cultural and natural assets for international cooperation, including exploring sister city partnerships and heritage restoration.

Tourism Ministry: Halal Certification Strengthens Indonesia's Tourism Competitiveness

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry asserts that strengthening the halal ecosystem through certification enhances the competitiveness of the tourism sector. The initiative aligns with the 2025–2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan, positioning Muslim-friendly tourism as a key national strategy. Over 31,500 halal certifications have been facilitated for SMEs across 1,116 tourist villages.

Gorontalo Deputy Governor Finds 23 kg of Vegetable Waste in a Day at Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens

An unannounced inspection of free nutritious meal kitchens in Bone Bolango Regency, Gorontalo, revealed up to 23 kilograms of vegetable waste daily and several food safety violations. Deputy Governor Idah Syahidah Rusli Habibie ordered immediate evaluations of unpopular menus and adherence to hygiene standards. She stressed that the programme's success must be measured by consumption levels and food safety, not just the number of recipients.

The Meaning Behind the Name 'Nona Seroja', the Newborn Elephant Calf in Tesso Nilo

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan has named a newborn Sumatran elephant calf 'Nona Seroja', symbolising purity and resilience amidst adversity. The name, approved by the Forestry Minister, reflects hope for conservation in the degraded Tesso Nilo National Park. The birth is seen as a call for collective responsibility to preserve the habitat for future generations.

Police Uncover Case of Lawyer Threatening and Extorting Young Entrepreneur

Central Jakarta Police have transferred a case file to prosecutors involving a lawyer accused of extorting and threatening a young entrepreneur. The victim, VL, alleges he was forced to hand over Rp60 million after being driven around the city and threatened with not being allowed to return home. The suspect, Bangun Paulus Tudungta, has acknowledged the legal transfer but declined to comment on the substance of the charges.

50% Discount on Electricity Power Upgrade in Celebration of Jakarta's Anniversary: Check the Requirements

State electricity firm PLN is offering a 50% discount on power upgrade fees for customers in Jakarta to celebrate the city's 499th anniversary. The promo, available via the PLN Mobile app, runs from 10 June to 23 June 2026 for eligible low-voltage single-phase customers. Applicants must settle all outstanding bills and meet specific technical requirements to benefit from the scheme.

Raffi Ahmad Contacts Cabinet Secretary Teddy and Deputy Speaker Dasco After Being Implicated in Blueray Case

Raffi Ahmad, the Presidential Special Envoy for Youth and Arts, has sought guidance from senior government officials after his name surfaced in a customs graft trial. He consulted Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya and Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, who advised him to hire a competent lawyer. The celebrity has since appointed Hotman Paris to help clear his name amidst allegations involving the import of electronics via Blueray Cargo.

Public Works Ministry's Indicative Ceiling for 2027 Budget Set at Rp98.47 Trillion

The Ministry of Public Works has been assigned an indicative budget ceiling of Rp98.47 trillion for the 2027 fiscal year, leaving a funding gap of Rp121.34 trillion against its assessed needs. Minister Dody Hanggodo stated the ministry requires Rp219.81 trillion to cover ongoing contracts, new infrastructure plans, and national development priorities. The ministry has formally requested the finance and planning ministers to consider the shortfall, which affects irrigation, roads, water services, sanitation, and other public infrastructure commitments.

Government Review May Reduce Budget Requirement for Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi revealed a potential reduction in the budgetary needs for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme following a government review. He clarified that this does not constitute a budget cut but stems from a more precise recalculation of costs. The process involves the National Nutrition Agency and the Ministry of Finance to ensure accurate funding requirements.

Audit Brokers Demand Rp 1.6 Billion from Muara Enim Regency to Manipulate BPK Report

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named five suspects in a bribery case involving the manipulation of a state audit report in Muara Enim Regency. Investigators allege intermediaries sought a fee of Rp 1.6 billion from local officials to alter the findings of the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK). The scheme involved private brokers, civil servants, and the regent, with initial funds totalling Rp 500 million already distributed among the conspirators.

Legislator asks KPK to investigate Jakarta Dukcapil over foreigner residence permits

A Jakarta councillor has urged the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to expand its investigation into a graft case at the West Jakarta Immigration Office by examining the city's Population and Civil Registration Agency. Ongen Sangaji alleges that the issuance of identity cards to foreign nationals involves substantial bribes, potentially reaching hundreds of millions of rupiah. The lawmaker also raised concerns over the potential misuse of national identity numbers belonging to regional residents to facilitate document processing for foreigners.

Malaysian Media Spotlight on Indonesian AGO's Examination of Maybank over Salim Ivomas

Malaysian media outlets are widely reporting on the Indonesian Attorney General's Office's questioning of Maybank staff concerning the palm oil producer PT Salim Ivomas Pratama. The probe is part of a wider investigation into alleged export price manipulation by major crude palm oil producers, focusing on potential under-invoicing to conceal profits and reduce tax liabilities. The move marks an aggressive step by President Prabowo Subianto's administration to address perceived revenue leakages in the natural resources sector.

Coordinating Minister Zulhas: SPPG Points Swell by 6,877, Programme Needs Overhaul

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has revealed that the number of Nutritional Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) for the Free Nutritious Meals programme has unexpectedly surged by 6,877 to over 27,000 points. He suspects this increase involves the buying and selling of SPPG points, potentially leading to over Rp1 trillion in monthly budget wastage. The government plans a comprehensive restructuring of the programme within the next month.

Three Hajj Pilgrims from East Java Return Home Early via Tanazul Scheme

Three Hajj pilgrims from East Java have been repatriated ahead of their scheduled flight groups using the tanazul scheme, a policy allowing early return for those with urgent health conditions, officials confirmed. The pilgrims joined other returning batches that had empty seats after being declared medically stable. The policy is designed to provide flexibility during the repatriation phase of the pilgrimage.

Lestari Moerdijat: Decent Childcare Standards Must Be Consistently Realised

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has called for consistent improvements in childcare and child protection standards in Indonesia. She highlighted alarming data showing that 44% of daycare centres remain unlicensed and two-thirds of managers are uncertified. The legislator urged comprehensive evaluations of care institutions and reinforced law enforcement to eliminate systemic violence against children.

China Cancels High-Level Meetings with the European Union

Beijing has scrapped two high-level engagements with the European Union scheduled for June, signalling a further deterioration in trade relations. The cancelled meetings included a ministerial-level digital dialogue and a political meeting, amid reports Brussels is preparing fresh trade defence measures against cheap Chinese imports.

Government Draws New Debt of Rp 386 Trillion as of May 2026

Indonesia's government had drawn new debt amounting to Rp 386 trillion by the end of May 2026, representing 46.4 percent of the full-year target of Rp 832.2 trillion. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the financing position remains normal, supported by a primary balance surplus of Rp 58.6 trillion. The overall budget financing is primarily aimed at covering the state budget deficit, which is targeted at Rp 689 trillion for the year.

Banten Police Intensify Night Patrols in Serang City to Prevent Crime

The Banten Regional Police have intensified their 'Precision City Patrols' during the night and early morning hours across Serang City. The operation is a preventive measure aimed at combating street crime, thuggery, and general disturbances to public order. Officers also engage in dialogue with residents and security personnel, urging vigilance and the immediate reporting of any suspicious activity.

Chronology of Brawl Involving Four Brimob Officers and Three TNI Soldiers Ending in Stabbing in Labuan Bajo

A misunderstanding during a celebratory event in Labuan Bajo escalated into a violent altercation, resulting in the stabbing of four Brimob officers by three Indonesian Army soldiers. Three of the victims remain hospitalised with back wounds, while a joint investigative team from the police and military police is working to establish the full facts. Senior regional commanders from both forces have held intensive coordination to ensure the incident does not disrupt the strong institutional synergy between the TNI and Polri in East Nusa Tenggara.

Forestry Ministry prioritises Rp550 billion for peatland infrastructure and fire prevention

The Ministry of Forestry has allocated Rp550 billion in its 2026-2027 budget to upgrade firefighting equipment and strengthen peatland wetting infrastructure. Deputy Minister Rohmat Marzuki said the funding marks a strategic shift towards preventive measures against forest and land fires. The plan responds to warnings of a drier 2026 dry season influenced by an emerging El Niño phenomenon.

Three Former Trade Ministry Tender Officials Charged with Causing State Losses of IDR 39.4 Billion

Three former officials from the procurement working group at Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade have been charged with corruption over a rigged tender for trade carts, resulting in an alleged state loss of IDR 39.4 billion. Prosecutors detailed how the defendants manipulated tender requirements, ignored irregularities, and accepted bribes to ensure two pre-selected companies won the contract. The case highlights systemic procurement fraud within a key government ministry.

World Bank Forecasts Indonesia's Economy to Slow to 5 Percent by 2026

The World Bank projects Indonesia's economic growth to ease to 5.0 percent in 2026 due to external pressures on investment and exports, before recovering to 5.2 percent in 2027-2028. The report warns that reliance on government spending as a short-term buffer carries risks given limited fiscal space, while highlighting that medium-term prospects hinge on successful structural reforms, including deregulation and productivity improvements. External risks such as prolonged Middle East conflicts and tight global financial conditions could further suppress growth and increase the energy subsidy burden.

Indonesian Household Debt Repayments Rise: Salaries Stretched, Pocket Money Cut

New data from Bank Indonesia reveals increasing financial strain on Indonesian consumers, as the portion of income used for debt repayments climbed while savings declined in May 2026. Lower-income groups are primarily squeezed by rising consumption needs, whereas the highest earners face mounting instalment burdens, leading to a significant drop in their savings.