Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 June 2026

Showing 51-100 of 1,603 articles

Task Force Urges Forestry Ministry to Resolve Aceh Business Permits Within 3 Months

A government task force has called on the Ministry of Forestry to finalise forest utilisation permits for two pine resin companies in Aceh within three months. The unresolved licensing has forced PT Ika Trias Serangkai and PT Kencana Hijau Binalestari to suspend exports of 12 derivative products previously shipped to 26 countries. The task force recommended continuing the stalled permit adjustment process using the original applications to restore business certainty.

Police Thwart Illegal Migrant Worker Departure to Malaysia from Tanjung Balai

North Sumatra Police have foiled an attempt to send eight Indonesian migrant workers illegally to Malaysia via a sea route. Five suspects have been named for their alleged roles in the recruitment and planned departure of the workers, who were to be employed as fishermen and construction labourers. Authorities continue to investigate the possibility of a wider network behind the illicit operation.

West Java High Prosecutor's Office Searches Indramayu DPRD Office, One Suitcase of Important Documents Seized

The West Java High Prosecutor's Office (Kejati Jabar) conducted an unannounced search of the Indramayu Regency Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) office, seizing a suitcase containing important documents. The search, which lasted from 9.30 a.m. until 1 p.m., surprised secretariat staff and occurred while the DPRD Secretary was attending a meeting elsewhere. The specific case prompting the investigation remains unclear, but the operation signals an intensification of legal scrutiny over the legislative body.

Safeguarding NU in East Nusa Tenggara: Gus Salam Cites Dual Burden, Not All Leaders Can Cope

Senior Indonesian cleric KH Abdussalam Shohib has described leading Nahdlatul Ulama in East Nusa Tenggara as a sacred calling rather than a career choice, citing a heavy dual burden for local officials. During a visit with scholars from Kediri's Ploso pesantren, local branch leaders expressed hopes for national reconciliation and greater support from the central board (PBNU) for regions outside Java. Key requests included assistance in establishing pesantren and restoring the organisation's prestige through educational development programmes.

BEM UI to Stage 'Towards an Indonesian Bankruptcy' Protest at Bundaran HI Tomorrow, Apologises for Traffic Disruption

The University of Indonesia's Student Executive Board (BEM UI) will hold a demonstration at the Bundaran HI roundabout in Central Jakarta on 12 June, warning of likely traffic congestion. The protest, titled 'Menuju Indonesia Bangkrut' (Towards an Indonesian Bankruptcy), will voice five demands concerning fuel price hikes, the free nutritious meal programme, and government spending. Organisers have issued an apology in advance for the temporary disruption, contrasting it with the prolonged 'congestion' of social mobility and job opportunities faced by the public.

NTB Provincial Government Urges Parliament to Immediately Pass Indigenous Peoples Bill

The West Nusa Tenggara administration is pressing the Indonesian House of Representatives to expedite the Indigenous Peoples Bill, arguing that legal recognition must be accompanied by tangible protection and welfare. During a consultation forum in Mataram, officials highlighted persistent issues such as land disputes and institutional fragility that leave indigenous communities vulnerable. The province is advocating for simplified recognition mechanisms and the integration of indigenous knowledge into sustainable development strategies.

School Holiday Train Fare Reduced by Up to 30 Percent on KA Sribilah Fakultatif

PT KAI Divre I North Sumatra is offering a 30 percent fare reduction on the KA Sribilah Fakultatif economy class service from 20 June to 5 July 2026, lowering ticket prices from Rp135,000 to Rp94,000. The initiative, part of a government transport stimulus through the Ministry of Transportation, aims to support public mobility during the school holiday period and boost regional tourism. A previous similar programme during the 2026 Lebaran travel period saw over 13,800 passengers benefit from the discounted fares.

Bareskrim Seizes Illegal Gold Refinery Worth Rp114 Billion in Sidoarjo

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has seized an illegal gold refinery in Sidoarjo, East Java, linked to a massive inter-island illicit gold network. The operation, involving money laundering, saw the refinery used to process gold from unlicensed mines in West Kalimantan and West Papua. Four suspects have been detained, and total assets worth Rp114.2 billion have been confiscated.

40,000 Jakpreneurs in West Jakarta Have Undergone Digital Transformation

West Jakarta Mayor Iin Mutmainnah announced that 95.31 per cent of the region's 42,716 active Jakpreneur members have successfully gone digital. The administration is now steering micro, small, and medium enterprises towards adopting artificial intelligence to boost grassroots economic resilience. She highlighted the need for policy support, affordable local AI platforms, and bridging the digital literacy gap to realise Jakarta's 2035 vision of a globally competitive and inclusive city.

Bank Mandiri Connects Directly to CIPS, Strengthening Indonesia-China Connectivity

State-owned Bank Mandiri has become a direct participant in China's Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS), enhancing financial connectivity between the two nations. This move, a result of bilateral cooperation between the central banks of Indonesia and China, streamlines Renminbi transactions. The integration is expected to improve efficiency and settlement certainty for trade, investment, and treasury activities.

North Maluku Hajj pilgrims overnight in Makassar before repatriation

Hajj pilgrims from North Maluku are resting overnight at the Sudiang Hajj Dormitory in Makassar before their flight home. The group of 392 arrived in Indonesia as part of Flight Group 13, with one pilgrim having passed away in the Holy Land. They will be officially welcomed by the Governor of North Maluku upon arrival in Ternate.

BMKG forecasts cloudy weather for most of Jakarta on Friday

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast predominantly cloudy conditions across Jakarta for Friday, with light rain expected in the west and south. The agency has published detailed temperature and humidity ranges for each administrative area, with East Jakarta expected to be the warmest at up to 34°C. Residents have been advised to remain alert for potential extreme weather and to monitor official channels for updates.

After Brimob-Army Clash, Labuan Bajo Tourists Urged to Remain Calm

East Nusa Tenggara Police have urged residents and tourists in Labuan Bajo to stay calm following a predawn misunderstanding between Brimob officers and Army soldiers that led to a stabbing. Senior military and police commanders have held intensive coordination meetings to ensure stability in the super-priority tourism destination. A joint investigation team has been formed to probe the incident, with authorities insisting the longstanding synergy between the security forces remains intact.

Bhayangkara Presisi Job Fair in Jambi Offers Thousands of Jobs

The Jambi Regional Police will host the Bhayangkara Presisi Job Fair from 22 to 24 June 2026, offering thousands of positions from over a hundred companies, including opportunities from Japanese and South Korean training institutions. Organisers emphasised the event is free of charge and features a paperless, barcode-based application system with dedicated facilities for disabled job seekers. The initiative, held in conjunction with an MSME exhibition, aims to demonstrate the police force's commitment to community welfare and easing unemployment ahead of the 80th Bhayangkara Day.

COO: Danantara is not 1MDB; SOE and investment risks are segregated

Danantara Indonesia's COO, Dony Oskaria, has dismissed comparisons to Malaysia's scandal-hit 1MDB, asserting the new sovereign wealth fund was designed from the outset with a strict separation between state-owned enterprise management and investment activities. He explained that this structural firewall is intended to prevent any failed investments from dragging down the performance of national economic pillars. The clarification addresses public concerns arising from the entity's consolidation of state assets alongside an investment mandate.

UNJ and Bosowa Corporation Partner to Establish Labschool Bekasi

Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ) has signed a cooperation agreement with Yayasan Bosowa Bina Insani to establish and manage Labschool Bekasi. The partnership aims to expand access to quality education by creating an innovative laboratory school model integrating academic excellence, character building, and modern management. The new school in Mutiara Gading City is expected to serve as a national model for collaboration between higher education and the private sector.

Pramono hopes Jakarta Fair will be more festive for DKI's 500th anniversary

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has expressed his hope that next year's Jakarta Fair will be more spectacular as it coincides with the 500th anniversary of the city. This year's event, running from 11 June to 12 July, features 2,800 companies and aims to surpass last year's transaction value for MSMEs. Organisers anticipate the fair will serve as a major hub for trade, industry, and the creative economy.

Prosecutors Hail Kerry Appeal Verdict as Aligned with State Loss Recovery Efforts

The Jakarta High Court has increased the prison sentence for coal corruption convict Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza to 15 years and ordered him to pay Rp13.4 trillion in restitution. Prosecutors have praised the appellate ruling, stating it shares their vision for combating graft and recovering massive state economic losses. The case relates to the fulfilment of coal supply obligations for state electricity firm PLN by subsidiary PT Bukit Asam.

State-Owned Enterprises Contribute Up to Rp700 Trillion Annually to State Coffers

Indonesia's State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) contribute between Rp600 trillion and Rp700 trillion to state revenue each year, excluding profits and taxes. The Head of the SOE Regulatory Body refuted claims that SOEs are unprofitable, stating their consolidated profit reached Rp335 trillion in 2025. The government is pursuing transformation and consolidation through Danantara to boost contributions towards Rp800 trillion annually.

Will There Be Incentives Due to the Pertamax Price Hike? Here's Bahlil's Explanation

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the government has not decided on providing public incentives following the increase in non-subsidised fuel prices for Pertamax and Pertamax Green. He confirmed that studies into alternative incentives are underway, but the priority remains protecting lower-income groups. The minister noted that any potential support would aim to preserve purchasing power amid current economic shocks.

Pertamina Subsidiary to Develop Ronggolawe Oil Field, Targeting 5,126 Barrels Per Day

PT Saka Energi Indonesia, an upstream subsidiary of Pertamina, has obtained official approval for the development plan of the Ronggolawe oil field within the Pangkah Working Area. The project is projected to commence commercial production by the end of 2029, with peak output estimated at 5,126 barrels of oil per day. The development aims to exploit total potential reserves of approximately 10 million barrels and will involve drilling four new wells integrated with existing production facilities.

Agriculture Minister Amran Reveals Total New Rice Fields in Papua Reach 80 Thousand Hectares

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has announced that new rice field development in Papua has reached 80,000 hectares, targeting full mechanisation to boost productivity. The programme combines expansion with modern technology, sending hundreds of tractors to replace manual cultivation. Yields in some areas have reportedly risen from 3 tonnes to as much as 7 tonnes per hectare.

Minister Bahlil: Pertamax Price Hike Calculated Wisely by Pertamina

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has defended the increase in non-subsidised fuel prices, stating Pertamina's calculations for Pertamax were conducted wisely. He confirmed that subsidised fuels like Pertalite and LPG will not see any price changes. The government is currently formulating measures to protect the public’s purchasing power amid the adjustment.

Jakarta's Democratic-Perindo Faction Flags Problematic RT-RW Funds and Swelling Budget Surplus

The Democratic-Perindo faction in the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has raised concerns over financial mismanagement at the neighbourhood level, citing audit findings of non-compliant spending by RTs and RWs. The faction also questioned the sharp increase in the city's budget surplus to IDR 5.82 trillion, suggesting it reflects poor planning rather than fiscal success. They urged the provincial government to improve administrative oversight and integrity in public services.

Home Minister Proposes Regional Heads Receive Bonuses from Local Revenue Amid Surge in KPK Sting Operations

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has suggested providing regional heads with a percentage of locally-generated revenue (PAD) as a performance incentive. The proposal comes in response to the persistent number of graft arrests involving local leaders, with the minister arguing that such bonuses could spur creativity in boosting regional income without burdening citizens. He acknowledged, however, that increased operational funding and incentives alone may not guarantee an end to corrupt practices.

Halal Logistics Implementation Strengthened

Indonesian logistics firm Gateway Container Line is reinforcing its commitment to halal logistics to guarantee product integrity across the supply chain. The move responds to Indonesia's mandatory halal policy and growing international demand for certified supply networks. The company views halal certification as a long-term reputational investment that builds customer trust and enhances global competitiveness.

Bahlil on Pertamax Price Hike: It Adjusts to the Market

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that the recent increase in non-subsidised Pertamax fuel prices reflects current market calculations, while assuring that subsidised fuel and LPG prices remain unchanged. He stated the government is devising measures to protect public purchasing power. The price adjustment, which took effect on 10 June 2026, sees Pertamax (RON 92) rise to Rp 16,250 per litre.

Indonesia stresses strengthening creative workers' skills at UNESCO forum

Indonesia has called for better skills development, social protection, and fairer opportunities for creative workers during a UNESCO forum in Paris. Ambassador Satrya Wibawa highlighted that the creative economy is a vital pillar of national development and outlined four key policy priorities, including public investment and recognising local knowledge. The statement coincided with the launch of a global report on skills and employment in the cultural and creative industries.

Jakarta Fair Kemayoran 2026 draws thousands of exhibitors and MSMEs

The Jakarta Fair Kemayoran 2026 has attracted thousands of exhibitors and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), highlighting the event's role as a major platform for Indonesian commerce. The fair continues to serve as a significant annual gathering for businesses to showcase products and engage with consumers, supporting local economic activity.

Jakarta Fair Kemayoran 2026 Engages Thousands of Participants and MSMEs

The Jakarta Fair Kemayoran 2026 has opened, running from 11 June to 12 July to celebrate the 499th anniversary of Jakarta. The major multi-product exhibition features 2,800 participants and 1,800 stands, with 45 per cent allocated to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The event was officially opened by the Minister for MSMEs and the Jakarta Governor.

Ahead of School Holidays, KAI West Sumatra Division II Bolsters Operational Readiness with Padang–Naras Track Inspection

KAI's West Sumatra Division II has conducted a comprehensive track inspection between Padang and Naras stations to ensure railway safety and reliability ahead of the expected surge in mobility during the school holiday period. The inspection assessed infrastructure including rails, signalling, and drainage systems, while management also monitored station readiness. The company intensified public safety campaigns at level crossings, reminding road users of their legal obligations to prioritise train passage.

22 Nations Jointly Warn Iran Over Alleged 'Deadly Plots' on Foreign Soil

Twenty-two nations, including the United States and key European allies, have issued a unified warning to Tehran, demanding an immediate halt to alleged lethal operations and disinformation campaigns on their territories. The coalition specifically calls out Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps and its Quds Force for orchestrating attacks. The coordinated statement underscores escalating diplomatic tensions following accusations of antisemitic attacks and targeting of journalists.

AGO Continues to Probe Possibility of Additional Suspects in Free Nutritious Meal Programme Case

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) is deepening its investigation into alleged corruption within the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) for 2025–2026 and has not ruled out naming further suspects. Investigators are preparing to question the recently named fourth suspect and are examining a request for justice collaborator status. The probe is focusing on the alleged buying and selling of distribution points and the procurement process, with state losses still being calculated.

Police Academy Cadets Hone Skills and Leadership During Field Training in Malang

Fifteen cadets from the Indonesian Police Academy have commenced a two-week field training programme at Malang Police Resort to deepen their practical understanding of policing. The initiative aims to sharpen their technical, managerial, and leadership abilities before they are commissioned as officers. Malang Police Chief AKB Muhammad Taat Resdi emphasised that the programme serves as a crucial bridge between academic theory and real-world dynamics.

Jakarta Fair 2026 Opens, Governor Targets Transactions Above IDR 8 Trillion

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has officially opened the 2026 Jakarta Fair Kemayoran, setting an ambitious transaction target of over IDR 8 trillion. This exceeds last year's record of IDR 7.3 trillion, with organisers also aiming to attract more than six million visitors. The event is seen as a precursor to Jakarta's 500th anniversary celebrations in 2027.

North Java Coast Management Authority Reviews Tidal Flood and Abrasion Impact in Ambulu Village, Cirebon

Officials from the North Java Coast Management Authority (BOPPUJ) have inspected severe coastal erosion and tidal flooding in Ambulu Village, Cirebon, where around 60 per cent of residential areas are at risk of submersion. The village head reported that while emergency bamboo embankments failed, the area is now being considered for inclusion in the national strategic Giant Sea Wall project designed to protect Java's northern coastline. Residents are living in constant anxiety amid daily tidal surges that have destroyed homes and crippled the local economy.

CMES Indonesia 2026 Targets Manufacturing Opportunities as Machine Tool Market Reaches 4 Billion US Dollars

Indonesia's first CMES Indonesia International Machine Tool Exhibition will debut in Jakarta in September 2026, aiming to capitalise on the nation's growing manufacturing sector. The event comes as research firm Ken Research projects the Indonesian machine tool market to be worth 4 billion US dollars. It is set to facilitate technology transfer and support the government's 'Making Indonesia 4.0' industrial transformation agenda.

Over 100 motorcycles seized in illegal parking crackdown at West Jakarta's City Park

A joint enforcement operation in West Jakarta targeted illegal parking and unlicensed parking attendants near City Park Apartments, acting on gubernatorial orders. The crackdown saw 111 vehicles penalised to restore road function and address resident complaints. Officials hope the action will deter the misuse of roads and pavements for unauthorised parking.

Healthy Lifestyle Consumption Trends Strengthen the Wellness Industry Ecosystem

Bali's wellness industry continues to show promising growth, driven by rising public awareness of healthy lifestyles, particularly in areas like Canggu. Amarta Detox, marking its second anniversary, has expanded from massage and pilates to include detoxification, health technology, and a longevity programme. The firm's founder noted the enduring strength of the Bali market and is focusing on comprehensive health education to complement its service offerings.

BPJS Kesehatan Pati clarifies issue of contribution fines up to Rp700,000

BPJS Kesehatan Pati has clarified that no fines are imposed for late payment of JKN contributions, following a viral social media post claiming a Rp700,000 penalty. The agency explained that the sum in question was an accidental six-month advance payment, which will serve as a credit for future months. Both parties emphasised the importance of verifying payment details to avoid similar misunderstandings.

Indonesian minister urges women to drive workplace transformation

Manpower Minister Yassierli has called for a fundamental shift in workplace culture to achieve gender equality, emphasising that equal opportunities are insufficient without access to skills, safety, and leadership roles. He highlighted persistent challenges including wage gaps, workplace harassment, and the unequal burden of unpaid care work, while stressing that technological advances must be paired with strengthened digital literacy and protection for women. The government's commitment is demonstrated through the ratification of key ILO conventions and new national regulations on sexual harassment prevention and maternal welfare.

Thousands of Students Fail 'Maung School' Admission, Must Rush to Register at Regular Schools

Thousands of students in West Java who failed to secure a place in the Maung School programme face a one-day deadline to register at regular state schools. The announcement of successful applicants was made on Monday, with many students at institutions like SMAN 1 Sindang in Indramayu failing to gain admission. The provincial education office extended the regular school registration deadline by a single day to accommodate the displaced pupils.

Unsure US Would Seize Kharg Island, Trump Threatens Stronger Bombardment of Iran

US President Donald Trump has expressed a desire to seize Iran's key oil infrastructure on Kharg Island but voiced doubt over America's willingness to take such a risk. He also threatened a larger and more intensive bombing campaign, even as indirect peace talks reportedly intensify. The ongoing war, which has closed the strategic Strait of Hormuz, has already killed thousands and driven up global oil prices.

Images of Iranian Drone Debris Destroying Bahrain Home, Children Among Victims

Debris from an intercepted Iranian drone fell on residential areas in Bahrain, damaging homes and injuring an 11-year-old child. The attack, claimed by Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, targeted a US base in retaliation for strikes on Iran. Bahrain's interior ministry confirmed the interception but noted the resulting civilian casualties and property damage.

Muhammadiyah Begins Construction of Infusion Factory in Malang

Muhammadiyah, Indonesia's second-largest Islamic organisation, has commenced construction of an Rp 800 billion infusion manufacturing plant in Karangploso, Malang Regency. The facility, managed by its pharmaceutical arm PT Suryavena Farma Indonesia, aims to secure the medical supply chain for its extensive network of hospitals and clinics by 2027. The project is framed as a strategic move to elevate the organisation's economic role from micro-enterprises to large-scale industry while serving public welfare.

Government Strengthens Commitment to Stunting Reduction through Precision Data

The Indonesian government is reinforcing its commitment to tackling stunting by enhancing cross-sector coordination and deploying precision data. A name-and-address based approach will be used to identify and target priority groups more accurately. This initiative, supported by a World Bank programme, aims to integrate interventions across multiple dimensions including health, sanitation, and socioeconomic factors.

Acer Indonesia Invites Students in Greater Jakarta to #LoveTheEarth by Collecting 5 Tonnes of E-waste

Acer Indonesia has launched its sixth annual #SayangBumi sustainability programme, targeting schools in Jabodetabek to collect 5 tonnes of electronic waste. The initiative aims to educate thousands of students through workshops and appoint 150 student 'Changemakers' to drive environmental awareness. Indonesia faces a mounting e-waste challenge, generating 1.9 million tonnes in 2022.

PAM Jaya Expands Services to Condet, Residents Begin Switching to Piped Water

Residents of Condet in East Jakarta are reporting improved water quality and lower household costs after gaining access to PAM Jaya's piped drinking water service. The network expansion is part of a broader push towards 100 per cent coverage by 2029 and aims to reduce reliance on groundwater. Excessive groundwater extraction has been linked to land subsidence in the capital.

Penajam Paser Utara One of 25 Priority Locations for National Integrated Schools in 2026

Penajam Paser Utara Regency in East Kalimantan has been selected as one of 25 priority locations for the 2026 National Integrated Schools programme by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. The decision follows ministerial assessments and field verifications of proposals submitted by local governments. The programme aims to provide free, inclusive, and integrated education services for high-achieving students regardless of their economic or social background.

Press Council refines Copyright Bill proposal to fortify press industry

Indonesia's Press Council is developing proposals to enshrine journalistic works as protected objects under the Copyright Law. The initiative aims to secure economic rights for press companies and address the unremunerated use of news content by digital platforms and artificial intelligence. The council is also exploring a collective management mechanism to strengthen the bargaining position of the national press industry.