Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 11 June 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,603 articles

Bandung Prison: Graft Convict Dies of Heart Attack

A former head of Sukabumi Regency's Environmental Agency, imprisoned for corruption, died of a heart attack at a Bandung detention centre on Thursday morning. Officials confirmed Prasetyo had a pre-existing heart condition and received regular medical check-ups since his transfer to the facility. The convict collapsed after eating breakfast and was pronounced dead at Santo Yusuf Hospital despite emergency treatment.

UK Anticipates Fallout from Northern Ireland Riots

The British government plans to tighten immigration enforcement at the border with Ireland following anti-immigrant riots in Belfast triggered by a stabbing. Ministers from the UK and Ireland have discussed cross-border cooperation to safeguard the Common Travel Area. The incident has intensified debate over open-border movement and led the UK to allocate funds for targeted intelligence operations against illegal migration.

YPMAK Builds Sago House to Bolster Food Security and Local Economy

The Amungme and Kamoro Community Empowerment Foundation (YPMAK), which manages PT Freeport Indonesia's partnership funds, has commenced construction of a Sago House in Mimika, Central Papua. The facility aims to strengthen local food security and boost the community's economy by processing sago into both staple foods and marketable products. The initiative is part of YPMAK's economic programme and is expected to absorb local labour while reducing unemployment in the village.

Government Ready with Various Options to Discuss Election Law Revision

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Home Affairs, has declared its readiness to discuss the revision of the Election Law, which has stalled in the House of Representatives (DPR). Minister Tito Karnavian stated that preparations are underway for multiple scenarios, whether the initiative comes from the DPR or the government. The move follows suggestions that a government-led initiative could fast-track the legislation by avoiding protracted debates among political factions.

PT Bukit Asam Shareholders Approve Bambang Ismawan as New CEO

PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) shareholders have officially appointed Bambang Ismawan as the state-owned coal miner's new CEO during the Annual General Meeting. The meeting also approved a cash dividend of Rp1.32 trillion, representing 45% of the company's 2025 net profit. The leadership reshuffle and dividend decision reflect the company's commitment to balancing shareholder returns with business sustainability.

Pekanbaru's Economic Growth Hits 8%, Mayor Credits Collective Hard Work

Pekanbaru's economy expanded by approximately 8 per cent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, driven by a surge in government spending and investment. Mayor Agung Nugroho stated the data from the local statistics agency signals that fiscal policy is effectively stimulating the regional economy. The local government aims to maintain this momentum by accelerating infrastructure development and strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Again as Tensions with US Explode

Iran has completely closed the Strait of Hormuz to all maritime traffic and threatened to target any vessel attempting passage, following a series of US military strikes near the strategic waterway. The closure and threats mark a dramatic escalation, with Iran also reportedly striking a US base in Bahrain as President Trump claimed Tehran begged for a halt to the bombing. The spiralling conflict threatens to disrupt global oil supplies, even as Trump asserts a covert US mission has safely escorted over 100 million barrels of oil through the strait in the past month.

BKN: AI Development Must Be Tailored to Sector-Specific Needs

The Head of the National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has stated that artificial intelligence development must be thematic and tailored to the distinct needs of each government service sector. He argued that the AI requirements for civil registration differ significantly from those of staffing, investment, or healthcare. In support of this transformation, BKN is collaborating with Microsoft to train 145,000 AI talents across government agencies.

Police investigate alleged child prostitution involving foreign national in Tamansari, West Jakarta

Authorities are looking into a suspected child prostitution case in Tamansari, West Jakarta, reportedly involving a foreign national. The investigation commenced after a viral video on social media showed an individual, believed to be a pimp, offering underage girls to the foreigner. Police are currently analysing the video and examining the locations shown to gather further evidence.

BPK Breaks Silence on Corruption Case Involving 5 Civil Servants

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has responded to the recent arrest of five of its civil servants by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The BPK stated it respects the legal process and pledged full cooperation in the ongoing investigation. The arrests are linked to an alleged bribery case concerning an audit of a smart board procurement in the Muara Enim Regency.

Astra Car Sales Reach 182,136 Units by End of May 2026

Astra Group maintained a dominant position in Indonesia's automotive market, capturing a 56% market share in May 2026 with wholesale sales reaching 182,136 units year-to-date. National car sales grew approximately 14% annually in May, driven by diverse consumer mobility needs. Toyota and Daihatsu remained the group's top-performing brands, while Astra's Low Cost Green Car sales also held a substantial majority of that segment.

Indonesia's Economic Challenges Seen as Largely Driven by Global Pressures

An economist argues that the weakening rupiah and economic uncertainty are primarily due to external global factors rather than domestic policy failures. He notes that many developing nations face similar pressures from geopolitical dynamics and capital flow shifts. The main challenge, he suggests, lies in strengthening Indonesia's economic structure to maximise the impact of already progressive government policies.

Celios Researcher Urges BGN to Cancel MBG Funding from Grants

A researcher has urged the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to cancel plans to fund the Free Nutritious Meals programme (MBG) through sources outside the state budget, such as foreign grants and CSR, warning it could create new avenues for corruption. The call comes amid concerns over the agency's governance following a recent corruption scandal involving its former leadership. The researcher argues the agency should instead focus on evaluating and improving the programme's targeting before seeking alternative funding.

Finance Minister Purbaya to follow President's directive on free meal programme budget cuts

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that any reduction to the Free Nutritious Meals programme budget will adhere to President Prabowo Subianto's instructions. The government is currently calculating the potential cuts for the Rp268 trillion programme, with a comprehensive restructuring expected to be completed within a month. The restructuring may involve refocusing beneficiaries and reducing distribution to schools not deemed a priority.

Cak Imin Appoints Najmi Mumtaza Rabbany as PKB Daily Chair

Muhaimin Iskandar, chairman of the National Awakening Party (PKB), has appointed Najmi Mumtaza Rabbany as the party's new Daily Chairman. The appointment is intended to strengthen organisational consolidation and prepare the party for strategic agendas leading up to the 2029 General Election. Gus Najmi emphasised that leadership regeneration and expanding support among youth will be key focuses.

Prabowo Accelerates Revitalisation of 71,000 Schools

President Prabowo Subianto is pushing for the acceleration of priority education programmes, including the revitalisation of over 71,000 schools across Indonesia. The initiative, which has a budget of Rp14 trillion for 2026, is expected to improve educational facilities whilst generating employment for approximately 1.1 million local workers. The programme specifically targets schools in frontier, outermost, and disadvantaged regions, as well as those damaged by disasters.

Hasto delves into the philosophy of Bung Karno's Paediatricians Conference idea

PDIP Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto has highlighted the humanist and visionary side of Indonesia's first president, Soekarno, in laying the foundations for children's health through the Asian-African Paediatricians Conference. Hasto explained that Soekarno's concept of nation-building emphasised preparing a physically and mentally healthy future generation, linking children's intelligence to their nutritional intake from an early age. This philosophy also led to the creation of 'Mustika Rasa', a strategic national culinary book aimed at upholding food sovereignty and preventing dependence on foreign food imports.

Maintaining Economic Growth Momentum: Indonesia Strengthens Investment, Downstreaming, and Fiscal Policy

Indonesia's economy demonstrated resilience with 5.61% growth in the first quarter of 2026, driven by robust domestic demand and investment. The government is reinforcing fiscal discipline whilst accelerating structural reforms, including investment climate improvements and international trade agreements. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto emphasised the importance of maintaining macroeconomic stability to achieve the 2027 growth target of up to 6.5%.

Prabowo Orders Acceleration of School Revitalisation and Integrated National Schools Development

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to accelerate priority programmes, including a massive school revitalisation effort and the development of Integrated National Schools. Minister Abdul Mu'ti reported that the 2026 revitalisation budget, approved by the DPR at Rp14 trillion, will target 71,744 educational units nationwide and is expected to absorb approximately 1.1 million local workers. The minister also noted a very positive response from communities in frontier, outermost, and disadvantaged regions who are receiving proper educational facilities for the first time in decades.

RI, China strengthen local currency, cross-border payment cooperation

Bank Indonesia and the People's Bank of China have agreed to deepen financial cooperation by expanding their bilateral currency swap arrangement and launching cross-border QR payments. The initiatives, including the appointment of Bank Mandiri to China's CIPS and plans for a Renminbi Clearing Bank in Indonesia, aim to boost the use of local currencies in trade and investment. This marks a significant step in integrating regional financial markets and strengthening the resilience of cross-border payment infrastructure between the two major economies.

Tolitoli Residents Will No Longer Need to Travel 12 Hours to Palu for Passport Services

Residents of Tolitoli Regency in Central Sulawesi will soon benefit from a new immigration office, eliminating the arduous 12-hour journey to Palu. The initiative has secured full backing from the local government, the Regional House of Representatives, and the central government, with the Palu Immigration Office noting that 35% of its passport applicants already hail from Tolitoli. The development is also seen as a strategic move to boost local tourism and regional connectivity.

Government Submits 21 Names for Central Information Commission to House of Representatives

The Indonesian government has formally submitted 21 candidates to the House of Representatives for the Central Information Commission (KIP) for the 2026–2030 term. The candidates were selected through a rigorous process, and the public is invited to provide feedback before parliament conducts fit and proper tests. The move underscores a collaborative effort between the executive and legislative branches to strengthen public information transparency institutions.

NTB Government: Customary Law Communities Bill Must Guarantee Welfare

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government has stressed that the draft law on customary communities must go beyond legal recognition and actively guarantee their welfare. Officials highlighted the urgent need for the protection of territorial rights, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation amidst ongoing land disputes and challenges. The bill is seen as crucial to providing legal certainty for indigenous groups like the Bayan community in Lombok and the former sultanates of Bima and Dompu in Sumbawa.

Russia Warns of Economic Fallout from US-Iran Conflict

The Kremlin has cautioned that the escalating exchange of attacks between the United States and Iran threatens global economic stability. Moscow is urging restraint and a return to negotiations, highlighting risks to international trade routes and energy markets. The renewed hostilities follow the downing of a US helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz.

UK Tightens Immigration Surveillance After Belfast Unrest

The UK government plans to intensify immigration enforcement, including enhanced border checks with Ireland, following anti-immigrant riots in Belfast triggered by a stabbing incident involving a Sudanese asylum seeker. Irish and British ministers have discussed strengthening cross-border cooperation and data sharing to protect the Common Travel Area. The Home Office has allocated £3.7 billion for enforcement measures through 2029, including targeted intelligence-led operations to detect undocumented migrants.

Pertamina CEO Finally Speaks Out on Pertamax Price Hike, Here's His Statement

Pertamina's CEO Simon Aloysius Mantiri has addressed the recent increase in non-subsidised fuel prices, attributing the decision to global geopolitical dynamics and international oil prices. He confirmed that prices for Pertamax (RON 92) and Pertamax Green (RON 95) rose on 10 June 2026, while stressing that subsidised fuels Pertalite and Biosolar remain unchanged. Mantiri reaffirmed the state energy company's commitment to maintaining energy availability across Indonesia.

Government Commences Construction of 15 Integrated Top-Tier Schools, One in Nusantara

The Indonesian government has begun building integrated schools, with 15 sites confirmed, including one in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN). This year, 100 such institutions, which combine primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary education on one campus, are targeted for construction. The programme is part of President Prabowo Subianto's vision to establish an integrated school in every sub-district, requiring an estimated 7,000 new schools nationwide.

Workplace Safety Increasingly Viewed as a Strategic Investment in the Mining Industry

Indonesian mining companies are shifting their view of workplace safety from a mere regulatory obligation to a strategic investment essential for operational continuity and business efficiency. PT Wahana Safety Indonesia highlighted this trend at Mining Expo Balikpapan 2026, showcasing technology-driven safety solutions like gas detection and fall protection systems. The firm noted rising demand for preventative safety measures to mitigate risks and support long-term productivity in a sector contributing significantly to the nation's GDP.

MPR Deputy Speaker: Decent Early Childhood Care Must Be Consistently Realised

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Lestari Moerdijat, has called for consistent improvements to child-rearing standards and protection in Indonesia to build a competitive future generation. She highlighted significant gaps in the child protection system despite 75 percent of Indonesian families using daycare services. Moerdijat urged comprehensive evaluation of care and protection institutions and synchronised strengthening of prevention, protection, and law enforcement.

Pertagas Promotes Waste Management and Food Security in Pamulang

PT Pertamina Gas (Pertagas) has donated a cultivator machine to a waste processing site and a women's farming group in Pamulang Barat, South Tangerang. The initiative supports the company's green eco-living programme, focusing on waste management, compost production, and urban agriculture. The aid is intended to boost agricultural efficiency and strengthen community-based food resilience near the company's operating areas.

Pertamina's Venezuela assets help diversify oil supply: Deputy FM

Indonesia has secured permission to resume oil operations in Venezuela as part of a broader strategy to diversify its crude supply away from the volatile Strait of Hormuz. Deputy Foreign Minister Anis Matta confirmed that state-owned Pertamina, through its subsidiary PIEP, is also in early-stage negotiations to explore new oil and gas investments across South America and Africa. The move aims to safeguard Indonesia's energy security amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Greeting Muharram, Ministry of Religious Affairs Holds 'Lebaran Yatim' and Mosque Clean-Up

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has launched 16 programmes under the 'Peaceful Muharam 1448 H' initiative to strengthen community welfare through spiritual, social, humanitarian, educational, economic, and environmental approaches. The programmes, which include events for orphans, Gen Z, and the disabled, aim to demonstrate religion's tangible contribution to solving social issues. The Director General of Islamic Community Guidance emphasised that the initiative is a collaborative movement designed to spread peace and empowerment across diverse community groups.

RI-Iran maintain talks over two stranded Pertamina tankers: Deputy FM

Indonesia continues diplomatic discussions with Iran to secure the release of two Pertamina tankers stranded in the Arabian Gulf due to regional military tensions. Progress remains slow, complicated by volatile security conditions, bureaucratic friction within Iran, and the refusal of international insurers to cover vessels entering high-risk areas. The government emphasises that any evacuation decision must align multiple factors, including naval security assessments and insurance requirements, beyond simply obtaining state guarantees.

Bogor City DPRD Mourns Passing of Legislator Muaz HD

The Bogor City Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is mourning the death of senior Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) faction member Muaz HD, who passed away early Thursday morning at Hermina Hospital. Colleagues remembered him as an exemplary and dedicated public servant who prioritised the interests of the people. The 64-year-old politician was laid to rest at the Kayumanis Public Cemetery in Bogor.

Government Implements Prudent Fiscal Policy, Says Airlangga

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that Indonesia's economy remains resilient, posting 5.61 per cent growth in Q1 2026. The government is maintaining a prudent yet countercyclical fiscal policy alongside subsidy reforms to sustain stability and purchasing power. Airlangga highlighted continued macroeconomic stability, robust investment growth, and a target of 5.8 to 6.5 per cent growth for 2027.

Students at 'Sekolah Rakyat' Become More Disciplined and Confident, Says Minister

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has highlighted the significant progress made by students attending Sekolah Rakyat (People's Schools), noting marked improvements in discipline and self-confidence. During a working visit to Manado, the minister observed students displaying positive character development through various performances. The programme, which involves dedicated educators, is designed to instil optimism and help students from underprivileged backgrounds pursue their aspirations.

Creative Economy Minister urges young civil servants to become problem solvers and innovators

Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya has called on newly appointed civil servants to act as problem solvers, innovators, and collaborators to support national creative economy development. The minister administered oaths to 93 new civil servants and inaugurated 63 functional officials in Jakarta. He emphasised the need for an adaptable workforce that leverages technology and data to serve the public and drive Indonesia’s knowledge-based economic transformation.

Ex-Treasurer Detained for Alleged Corruption of Denpasar's BUMDes Agung Karya

The Denpasar District Prosecutor's Office has detained WBA, the former treasurer of BUMDes Agung Karya in Peguyangan Kangin, for allegedly embezzling nearly Rp 1.7 billion (£87,000) from the village-owned enterprise. The suspect is accused of forging signatures and taking out loans under residents' names between 2020 and 2025. He has been remanded in custody for 20 days as investigations continue into potential accomplices.

Government Late to Raise Pertamax Price, Expert Says Adjustment Should Have Started at Beginning of Energy Crisis

The Indonesian government's decision to raise the price of non-subsidised Pertamax fuel to Rp16,250 per litre has been deemed unavoidable amid global oil price pressures and rupiah depreciation. A public policy expert argues the adjustment is actually overdue, as global energy turmoil has persisted since February 2026. While the delay provided an economic buffer for the public and businesses, a consumer watchdog stressed that the price hike must be matched by improved fuel quality and service standards.

PT Timah: Data Centres and Solar Panels to Drive Future Tin Demand

Indonesian state-owned tin miner PT Timah projects that data centres and solar panel manufacturing will become key drivers of global tin demand. The company is evaluating deeper offshore mining and primary onshore deposits to sustain future production. The firm reported a first-quarter 2026 net profit of Rp1.5 trillion, significantly exceeding its target.

US Escalates Strikes to Pressure Iran into Negotiations

Peace negotiations between the United States and Iran remain on track despite a renewed exchange of attacks, according to diplomatic sources. President Donald Trump has warned of further strikes if Iran does not accept a proposed peace deal, as US Central Command confirmed strikes on military targets in self-defence. Tehran has condemned the attacks as a flagrant violation of international law, while diplomatic channels remain fragile amidst accusations of mixed messages and ceasefire breaches.

Chronology: Australian Hells Angels Drug Boss Arrested as He Attempted to Fly on Private Jet

Angelo Pandeli, a high-ranking member of the Hells Angels motorcycle gang and an Interpol fugitive, was apprehended by Indonesian authorities at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport. He was detained moments before departing on a private jet to Mozambique using a fraudulent Brazilian passport. The arrest resulted from a 100 per cent match on an Interpol Blue Notice and close coordination between immigration officials and the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency.

The last two: Indonesia's high-stakes IVF rhino rescue

Indonesia has launched an emergency mission to rescue the critically endangered Bornean rhinoceros, with only two known females remaining and no males left in the wild. The plan involves capturing the last wild specimen, Pari, airlifting her to a sanctuary, and using in vitro fertilisation with stored genetic material in a final scientific bid to prevent extinction. The Forestry Ministry warns that failure to act decisively now would see the subspecies lost within a decade, while local indigenous communities have rallied behind the translocation effort.

Family's Lawyer Accuses Prambanan Hospital of Playing Games Over Toddler's Death Meeting

The lawyer for the family of a 3-year-old girl who died after a CT scan at Prambanan Regional General Hospital has accused the hospital of providing unreasonably short notice for reconciliation meetings. Legal counsel Purnomo Susanto claims the invitations were sent just hours before the scheduled appointments, preventing the family from attending. The hospital maintains it has been transparent and willing to provide medical explanations and records.

Southeast Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office deposits Rp9.9 billion from mining cases into state coffers

The Southeast Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office (Kejati Sultra) has transferred nearly Rp10 billion in non-tax state revenue to the national treasury, derived from corruption restitution and asset auctions related to mining cases. The funds primarily originated from a major mining graft case, supplemented by fines and the sale of seized vehicles. The achievement, totalling over Rp11.54 billion for the first half of 2026, underscores the prosecution's strategic shift towards optimising financial recoveries alongside criminal punishment.

House Pushes for Acceleration of Village Electricity Programme and BPBL to Achieve Energy Justice

The House of Representatives is urging the government and PLN to accelerate the Village Electricity Programme and the BPBL new electricity connection scheme. Lawmakers believe expanding electricity access is fundamental to improving public welfare, boosting regional productivity, and ensuring equitable development. The initiative aims to reach remote, outermost, and island regions to ensure no community is left behind in accessing reliable energy.

KPK: Container at Tanjung Mas Was Once Handled by BlueRay, Current Management Unclear

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that the contents of a container seized at Tanjung Mas Port in Semarang were previously managed by Blueray Cargo before the company became embroiled in an import corruption case. Businessman Heri Setiyono, also known as Heri Black, has denied ownership of the container during questioning. Investigators are now probing the conflicting accounts of who currently controls the container and examining potential attempts to obstruct the investigation.

Prospects for Indonesia's Machine Tool Market and CMES 2026 Exhibition

Indonesia's machine tool market is projected to reach US$4 billion, driven by a shift towards high-precision manufacturing in the automotive, electronics, and infrastructure sectors. The inaugural CMES Indonesia 2026 exhibition in Jakarta aims to capitalise on this growth, providing a strategic platform for global industry players. The event will support the government's 'Making Indonesia 4.0' agenda and facilitate technology transfer and long-term business partnerships.

Called a Sought-After Superfood, Native Indonesian Fish Is Still Rarely Farmed

The snakehead fish, native to Indonesia, is rich in albumin and protein, making it a potential superfood recommended for post-operative recovery. Despite its significant health benefits, consumption remains low due to limited market availability, as the fish is still largely wild-caught. Experts from Gadjah Mada University highlight the need for wider aquaculture to unlock its full potential beyond the current niche supplement market.

Indonesian Army Secures State Assets in Lenteng Agung to Support Unit Readiness

The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) is enforcing the repossession of official residences built on state land in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta, as part of an asset management drive. The operation follows a series of warnings and aims to redevelop the site to accommodate the expansion of an engineering unit. Brigadier General Donny Pramono stated the action is strictly to return state assets to their intended function, dismissing claims of a land dispute with the public.