Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 June 2026

Showing 101-150 of 715 articles

Government Asks Students to Support Prabowo

The Government Communication Agency (Bakom) has urged students to support President Prabowo Subianto, responding to recent protests against alleged state budget waste. Bakom chief Muhammad Qodari argued that Prabowo has already focused on cutting wasteful spending, saving approximately Rp 300 trillion. While acknowledging the students' right to protest in a democracy, Qodari insisted the president is at the forefront of fighting budget leaks.

UNPAM Eyes UNM's Informatics Doctoral Programme, Academic Collaboration Officially Explored

Universitas Pamulang (UNPAM) has initiated talks with Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) to explore academic collaboration, focusing on UNM's Doctoral Programme in Informatics. The meeting aimed to strengthen human resource quality through joint research and doctoral-level lecturer development. Both institutions agreed to prepare a formal cooperation document to underpin future collaborative programmes.

Prabowo Summons Purbaya and Bahlil to Kertanegara: What's Afoot?

President Prabowo Subianto convened key economic ministers at his private residence on a Sunday to discuss a surge in global investment interest in Indonesia. The meeting followed Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani's working visits to the US, Europe, and Asia, which reportedly yielded data showing increased international confidence. Prabowo has instructed that these positive investment figures be presented publicly at the State Palace to ensure transparent, fact-based communication with the public.

Java to Be Encircled by Numerous New Toll Roads, Here Is the List

The Indonesian government under President Prabowo Subianto has designated a raft of new toll road projects across Java as National Strategic Projects (PSN). The list, formalised in Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs Regulation No. 16 of 2025, includes major links such as the Gedebage-Tasikmalaya-Cilacap (Getaci) toll road, which will be the longest in Indonesia. The projects aim to significantly expand connectivity across West Java, Central Java, East Java, Banten, and Jakarta.

Six Industrial Buildings in Cikupa, Tangerang, Engulfed in Flames, Explosions Heard

A major fire swept through six buildings at the Cikupa Mas Industrial Estate in Tangerang, Banten, on Sunday, leaving one worker with burns. Strong winds hampered firefighting efforts and caused the blaze to spread rapidly across three companies, while limited water sources posed additional challenges for emergency responders.

1,364 Students at Depok State Junior High School 3 Study on Floor Without Desks and Chairs for Months

Over 1,300 students at SMP Negeri 3 in Depok, West Java, have been forced to study sitting on the floor for six months due to a lack of desks and chairs. The newly built school, which cost Rp28 billion, opened in January 2026 without adequate furniture, prompting complaints from parents about health and concentration issues. The Depok city government has been accused of neglect, with a reported lack of synchronisation between the education and housing departments blamed for the procurement delay.

Prabowo Summons Purbaya and Bahlil to Kertanegara Residence Tonight

President Prabowo Subianto convened a meeting with key economic ministers at his Jakarta residence to discuss investment developments. The session included a report on the outcomes of international visits, highlighting growing global investor confidence in Indonesia. The government plans to publicly present these positive investment data on Monday.

Tradition of Collecting Water from Seven Springs in Semarang

Residents of Goa Kreo Tourism Village in Semarang, Central Java, performed a hereditary ritual to collect sacred water from seven springs to mark the Islamic New Year 1448 H. The ceremony serves as an expression of gratitude for abundant clean water sources and aims to introduce the tradition to younger generations. The event also seeks to promote local tourism potential through indigenous cultural heritage.

Forget the Cost: Minister Says 'Sekolah Rakyat' Designed to Fulfil Education Rights for the Extreme Poor

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has reaffirmed that the government's 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme is a social safety net specifically designed to guarantee access to proper education for children from extremely poor families and school dropouts. He stressed that the student selection process must be strictly based on valid poverty data, free from corruption, collusion, and nepotism, with no fees or unofficial placements allowed. The minister also praised the positive development of students in Pekanbaru after 11 months of learning, noting improvements in confidence, discipline, and health.

Israel Bombards Hizbullah Stronghold in Beirut, Three Killed

Israeli strikes on southern Beirut have killed at least three people and injured 15, escalating tensions despite an ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The attack was launched in retaliation for earlier fire directed at Israeli territory, with Hizbullah rejecting a newly mediated truce agreement.

Israel Strikes Beirut Again, Lebanon Ceasefire at Risk of Collapse

Israel launched an airstrike on southern Beirut on Sunday, raising fears that the fragile ceasefire with Lebanon could collapse. The attack, which Israel claims targeted a Hizbullah-affiliated site, occurred despite a truce in place since April 2026. The ongoing violence has already caused thousands of casualties and displaced over 1.5 million people in Lebanon.

Eternal Rice Fields for the Nation's Future

A discussion among senior farmers in West Java has raised concerns about the long-term availability of agricultural land in Indonesia, despite recent successes in rice self-sufficiency. The debate questions whether opening new fields in places like Merauke can compensate for the rapid conversion of existing productive rice paddies into residential and industrial areas. The article reflects on the spirit of the 2009 Sustainable Food Agricultural Land Protection Law, which was originally proposed as the 'Eternal Rice Field Law' to safeguard the nation's food security foundation.

Tanah Datar and Solok Regents Agree Joint Steps to Resolve Boundary Conflict

The regents of Tanah Datar and Solok in West Sumatra have met to coordinate efforts in resolving a heated territorial dispute between Nagari Simawang and Nagari Bukit Kanduang. Both leaders agreed to urge restraint among residents while jointly seeking a solution, with the matter already escalated to the Ministry of Home Affairs. The conflict was recently inflamed by land clearing activities on disputed customary land.

Indonesia to Host IGIC 2026: Epicentre of World Religious Diplomacy

Indonesia is set to host the International Grand Imams Conference (IGIC) in September 2026, aiming to position itself as the global centre for moderate Islamic dialogue. The forum, themed 'Mosque Harmony, Religious Diplomacy, and Global Peace', will gather influential imams to revitalise the role of mosques as hubs of social harmony. Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar emphasised the strategic role of imams in projecting an inclusive and peaceful image of Islam to the world.

OJK Reprimands Leasing Firm for Using Brutal Debt Collectors

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has summoned Toyota Astra Financial Services (TAFS) over alleged violent debt collection practices in Serang, Banten. The regulator has ordered a comprehensive review of the company's collection processes, including third-party agents, and warned of potential administrative sanctions. OJK also reminded all financial firms of their responsibility for third-party actions and urged consumers to fulfil their payment obligations.

UNM and POLRI Strengthen Collaboration, Strategic Partnership Set for Extension

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) and the Indonesian National Police (POLRI) are finalising the extension of their strategic partnership. The renewed agreement aims to bolster cooperation in education, research, community service, and human resource development. Both institutions view the collaboration as vital for creating a relevant educational ecosystem and enhancing digital competencies amid national digital transformation.

Celebrating the 80th Bhayangkara Day, Bogor Police Enliven CFD with Thousands of Residents

Bogor Resort Police kicked off their Bhayangkara Fest by joining thousands of residents for a mass exercise at the Cibinong Car Free Day, aiming to break down barriers between law enforcement and the community. The event featured free public services, including a mobile driving licence unit and complimentary fresh vegetables from local farmers. The initiative is part of an ongoing commitment to humanistic 'Smart Policing' throughout June.

PMI: Blood donation strengthens solidarity and Indonesia's health services

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) is marking World Blood Donor Day 2026 by urging citizens to donate blood regularly, highlighting its critical role in saving lives and bolstering the national healthcare system. PMI officials stressed that voluntary donations are essential for meeting the demand for safe blood and for producing plasma-derived medicinal products. The campaign, supported by the WHO's global 'Drop Your Drop' movement, aims to foster a sustainable culture of blood donation across the country.

Returning Hajj Pilgrims Undergo Layered Health Checks Before Being Sent Home

Indonesian Hajj pilgrims arriving at Minangkabau International Airport are subject to rigorous health screenings before being allowed to return to their hometowns. The procedures, conducted by the Hajj Organising Committee and the Health Quarantine Centre, include immediate assessments at the aircraft door and thermal scanning at the Hajj dormitory. Officials emphasise the checks are precautionary, particularly for elderly pilgrims, to ensure safe onward travel.

18 Nutrition Service Units in Tulungagung Suspended Over Supplier Monopoly

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended 18 Nutrition Service Fulfilment Units (SPPG) in Tulungagung, East Java, after audits revealed substandard facilities and a strong indication of supplier monopolisation. The units were found to be using only three to five suppliers, far below the mandatory minimum of 15, raising concerns over transparency and food safety risks. The suspension will remain in place until the units meet all required standards.

When the World's Money Gravity Centre Shifts

The global financial architecture is undergoing a quiet but profound transformation, with Hong Kong overtaking Switzerland as the top cross-border wealth management hub. Geopolitical actions, such as the freezing of Russian assets, have shattered long-held assumptions about financial neutrality, prompting investors to diversify away from US Treasuries and return to gold as a safe haven. This shift is being accelerated by Asia's rising technological innovation, which is drawing capital towards new centres of productivity.

Israel Strikes Beirut Again, Breaching Ceasefire

Israeli forces launched an airstrike on Beirut's southern suburbs on Sunday, violating the ongoing ceasefire with Lebanon. The attack targeted the Dahiyeh district, which Israel claims is linked to Hezbollah, despite the truce that has been in effect since 17 April. The continued hostilities have resulted in over 3,700 deaths and displaced more than 1.5 million people since early March.

Jenebora Fishermen in PPU Face Ongoing Pressure from Industrial Vessel Activity in Balikpapan Bay

Traditional fishermen in Jenebora, Penajam Paser Utara, are protesting the continued presence of industrial vessels in Balikpapan Bay, which they claim damages the Karang Solet reef ecosystem vital to their livelihoods. Despite official recognition of the reef by provincial authorities, the fishermen say no concrete enforcement action has been taken against the ships. They have now appealed directly to central government ministries, citing their rights as the original inhabitants of the area designated as the maritime gateway to the new capital, IKN.

BGN: Allegations of MBG fund distribution to President are false

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has categorically denied social media claims that profits from the Free Nutritious Meals programme were distributed to President Prabowo Subianto. The agency stated the remarks attributed to former BGN head Dadan Hindayana were fabricated and never made by any official. The public has been urged to verify information through official channels to avoid being misled by disinformation.

Megawati pays respects at Bung Karno's grave in Blitar

PDI Perjuangan chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri visited the tomb of her father, Indonesia's first president Soekarno, in Blitar, East Java. The pilgrimage was described by party officials as a way to keep the spirit of struggle alive amid the nation's complex dynamics. Megawati was accompanied by family members and senior party elites during the visit.

Lawyers Ask Judges to Consider Cooperative Attitude of Defendants in Blueray Import Bribery Case

Defence lawyers in the Blueray Cargo import bribery trial have urged the Jakarta Corruption Court to consider their clients' cooperative behaviour and the broader context of the case. They argued the defendants were honest and did not flee, but highlighted that not all parties implicated in the alleged bribery scheme are being prosecuted equally. The defence also pointed to disproportionate targeting of the company by customs officials as background, not justification, for the payments.

Israeli Missiles Strike Hezbollah Stronghold in Beirut, Three Killed

Israeli forces launched strikes on Hezbollah targets in southern Beirut, killing at least three people and wounding 15, in retaliation for earlier fire directed at Israeli territory. The attack damaged an apartment building in the Dahiyeh district, a known Hezbollah stronghold, amid a fragile ceasefire mediated by the United States. The renewed violence underscores the persistent volatility along the Israel-Lebanon border despite ongoing truce efforts.

Indonesia Forecast to Face Intense Boiling Heat as El Niño Looms

Oceanographic and atmospheric indicators point to a strong El Niño developing in the second half of 2026, potentially bringing severe drought and heat to Indonesia. Experts warn that a concurrent positive Indian Ocean Dipole could amplify the impact, reminiscent of the devastating 1997-1998 event. Authorities are urged to begin early mitigation through water management, adjusted planting schedules, and forest fire prevention.

Responding to Student Protests, Palace Insists Free Nutritious Meal Programme Will Not Stop

The Indonesian government has firmly rejected student protesters' demands to halt the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, calling it a priority project of President Prabowo Subianto. Officials acknowledged implementation challenges but argued that problems should lead to evaluation and improvement, not termination. The government confirmed a temporary pause in new kitchen construction for restructuring, while existing meal services continue unaffected.

Minister Outraged as 8-Year-Old Students Allegedly Molested by Teacher, Demands Legal Action

Indonesia's Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has strongly condemned the alleged sexual abuse of three eight-year-old schoolgirls by a contract teacher in Palu, Central Sulawesi. The minister has called for a swift, professional, and transparent legal process, emphasising that schools must be safe havens for children. The suspect has been detained and is currently under police investigation.

Joint Patrols Intensified During School Holidays in Bandung to Anticipate Crime

Bandung authorities are ramping up joint patrols involving municipal, military, and police personnel during the school holiday period to ensure tourist safety. The move follows a recent spate of crimes, predominantly committed by teenagers under 16. The mayor stressed the need to swiftly suppress youth offending to prevent further incidents.

Trump's Claim on Peace Deal Timing Denied by Iran

US President Donald Trump announced a peace deal to end the Middle East conflict would be signed on Sunday, promising the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Foreign Ministry have refuted the timeline, stating that internal reviews are still ongoing and no final decision has been made. A Qatari delegation has arrived in Tehran to facilitate the finalisation of the agreement.

IPIM Holds International Grand Imams Conference to Spread Tolerance and Peace

The Ittihad Persaudaraan Imam Masjid (IPIM) is preparing for the 2026 International Grand Imams Conference (IGIC) with a national seminar in Makassar, aiming to unite imams in promoting social harmony and religious moderation. The conference will focus on the role of mosques in fostering tolerance and global peace, with a particular emphasis on guiding Indonesia's youth away from radicalism. IPIM also highlighted the need to improve the welfare of imams and their families to support their community-building mission.

Sumatra to Have Railway Line from Lampung to Aceh, Here's the Plan

State-owned railway operator PT KAI has unveiled a major plan to connect Sumatra from Bandar Lampung to Banda Aceh, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive to improve inter-regional connectivity. The project involves reactivating dormant lines and constructing new tracks, with an estimated total investment of up to US$25 billion. Priority will be given to linking Banda Aceh with Besitang in North Sumatra, covering approximately 478 kilometres.

Gianyar Police Patrol 12 Roads to Prevent Illegal Street Racing

Gianyar Resort Police conducted a large-scale joint patrol across 12 roads to deter illegal street racing and maintain public order. The operation, involving 35 personnel, took place from late night until early morning and found no criminal activity. Police emphasised the importance of community participation in preserving a safe and conducive environment.

Andre Rosiade Says Pertamax Price Hike Is Only a Nonsubsidised Fuel Adjustment

Gerindra Party politician Andre Rosiade has clarified that the recent increase in Pertamax prices is a targeted adjustment for nonsubsidised fuel only, while subsidised fuel prices remain unchanged. He emphasised the government's commitment to protecting public purchasing power amid global economic volatility. The policy aims to balance fiscal sustainability with the economic capacity of nonsubsidised fuel consumers.

Minister launches national bamboo movement to restore critical land

Indonesia's government has initiated a national bamboo planting movement as part of its ecological restoration programme, aiming to plant millions of trees from Sabang to Merauke. The initiative, launched in Bogor, West Java, also prioritises the rehabilitation of 700,000 hectares of damaged mangroves due to their superior carbon absorption capacity. The minister emphasised that the programme's success depends on multi-stakeholder collaboration and community involvement, while also commending regional mandates for urban forest development.

Illegal Car Garage Built on Pavement in Bandung Demolished by Satpol PP

A makeshift garage constructed on a public pavement in Bandung to store a municipal waste tricycle was forcibly demolished by the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP). The local RW head had built the structure to prevent theft of the government-provided vehicle but admitted it violated regulations. Officials stated the building obstructed pedestrian access and covered a drainage channel, posing a flood risk.

Megawati to Inaugurate Renovated Istana Gebang in Blitar as Bulan Bung Karno Culminates

PDI Perjuangan chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri will inaugurate the renovated childhood home of Indonesia's first president, Soekarno, in Blitar on 15 June 2026. The event marks the peak of the party's month-long Bulan Bung Karno commemorations. The renovation, funded through a collective effort by party cadres, aims to transform the historic site into an educational and cultural destination for younger generations.

Revealed: Killer of Two Women in Banyumas House Was Victim's Grandson

Police in Banyumas, Central Java, have arrested a 24-year-old man for the murder of his 81-year-old grandmother and an 18-year-old woman. The suspect killed his grandmother with a hammer and strangled her before luring the second victim, reportedly his mistress, to the house to kill her. The bodies were discovered by neighbours, with the grandmother found in a well and the younger woman in a bedroom.

10 Muharram Dialogue: NU Figures, Academics, and IJABI Call for Preserving Ukhuwah and Social Harmony in West Java

Ahead of 10 Muharram, Islamic scholars and community leaders gathered in Sumedang, West Java, to promote a message of unity and social harmony. The forum stressed that the commemoration should be a moment for moral reflection and strengthening brotherhood, rather than sharpening historical divisions. Participants were urged to translate the values of sacrifice into concrete actions that benefit the wider community.

Bulog confirms 10 million kg rice stock secure for Galungan

Perum Bulog Bali has assured the public that its rice reserves of nearly 10.8 million kilograms are sufficient to meet demand during the upcoming Galungan and Kuningan celebrations. The state logistics agency also reported stable market prices and is accelerating the distribution of food aid and market intervention rice to maintain affordability. Authorities urged residents not to engage in panic buying as supplies remain ample for the next ten months.

Vengeance for Past Imprisonment: Demak Youth Burns Homes of Former Village Head and Retired Civil Servant

A 25-year-old man has been arrested in Demak, Central Java, for allegedly setting fire to two houses in Karangawen District. Police stated the suspect, identified as AI, acted out of personal revenge against the children of the victims. The targeted properties belonged to a former village head and a retired civil servant.

12.4 Million Hectares of Critical Land to Be Restored with Bamboo

Environment Minister Moh. Jumhur Hidayat has proposed large-scale bamboo planting as a solution to rehabilitate Indonesia's 12.4 million hectares of critical land. The initiative aims to leverage carbon trading mechanisms, allowing communities to earn dual income from bamboo cultivation and carbon credits. The government is promoting the scheme as a way to create green jobs while restoring watersheds and critical areas.

BRICS Cooperation Opens Opportunities for Accelerating Agricultural Modernisation and Strengthening National Food Security

Indonesia sees strategic opportunities in BRICS cooperation to bolster national food security through agricultural modernisation. The commitment was reinforced at the 2026 BRICS Agriculture Ministers' Meeting in India, which produced a joint declaration on sustainable farming and innovation. Key areas include collaboration on seeds, digital agriculture, climate-resilient farming, and potential financing via the New Development Bank.

Prabowo Accelerates Trans-Sumatra Toll Road from Lampung to Aceh: These Are the Remaining Routes

President Prabowo Subianto's administration is prioritising the completion of the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, with approximately 1,618 kilometres still to be built. The remaining sections, spanning from Lampung to Aceh, have been designated as National Strategic Projects under a new ministerial regulation. State-owned contractor PT Hutama Karya is leading the push to connect the entire island.

Bank Mandiri Launches 'Mandiri Sahabat Desa' Programme Across 28 Villages Along Mandiri Jogja Marathon Route

Bank Mandiri has initiated a corporate social responsibility programme, 'Mandiri Sahabat Desa', targeting 28 villages along the Mandiri Jogja Marathon 2026 route in Yogyakarta. The initiative, part of the bank's 28th anniversary, focuses on rural infrastructure improvement, local economic empowerment, and social welfare enhancement. Activities include road repairs, village boundary construction, environmental clean-ups, distribution of 2,800 basic food packages, and an UMKM festival to boost local enterprises.

BGN Temporarily Suspends 18 Nutrition Service Units in Tulungagung Over Supplier Monopoly

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has halted operations at 18 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) in Tulungagung, East Java, after discovering substandard facilities and indications of supplier monopolisation. Evaluations revealed some units were using only three to five suppliers, far below the mandated minimum of 15. The suspension will remain until the units meet required standards, with affected beneficiaries being redirected to other kitchens to ensure the free nutritious meal programme continues uninterrupted.

Observer: Closing Level Crossings Is the Ideal Solution for Safety

Transport observer Djoko Setijowarno argues that closing level crossings is the ideal step to improve railway safety and traffic order, though it requires careful planning to maintain community connectivity. PT KAI has already closed 119 priority crossings this year and is accelerating the handling of 490 illegal crossings. The policy is part of a broader effort to create a safer and more sustainable transport system, with challenges including traffic diversion and the need for costly flyovers or underpasses.

Rajiv Hopes New Board Marks Revival of NasDem Party in Bandung Regency

MP Rajiv has declared the inauguration of the NasDem Party's new Bandung Regency board for 2026-2029 as a pivotal moment for the party's resurgence. He urged cadres to strengthen organisational solidarity and focus on long-term political engagement with the community ahead of the 2029 elections. The new leadership under Chairwoman Tia Fitriani is expected to revitalise the party's standing and expand its political influence in the region.