Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 June 2026

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Profit or Loss? 6 Tips to Save Yourself from Fraudulent Investments

Fraudulent investment schemes in Indonesia caused Rp2.5 trillion in losses throughout 2024, according to the Financial Services Authority's Investment Alert Task Force. Perpetrators are using increasingly diverse tactics, including social media flexing and promises of guaranteed returns, to lure victims. The public is advised to verify legalities, understand risk principles, and improve financial literacy to avoid becoming the next victim.

Zakat, Inflation, and the Social Safety Net

Global energy conflicts are driving domestic fuel price hikes and eroding purchasing power in Indonesia, disproportionately affecting the poor. With national Islamic charitable giving estimated at Rp 343 trillion annually, zakat and other social funds are positioned as a responsive, humanist safety net. The challenge lies in strengthening digital trust and governance to channel this massive potential into effective structural relief.

Bringing the Sky Down to Earth: Astro-Tourism to Boost the Economy

Young tourism advocates in Alamendah Village, South Bandung, are pioneering astro-tourism by blending modern astronomy with local Sundanese wisdom. The initiative, supported by academics from the Indonesian University of Education, aims to create a unique educational experience while driving village economic growth. The programme leverages low light pollution and community-based tourism models to generate income for residents and local revenue.

Minister: No favouritism allowed in selecting Sekolah Rakyat students

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has stressed that no officials, including ministers and regional heads, may intervene in the selection of students for the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. The initiative is strictly reserved for children from impoverished families in the lowest welfare brackets. The minister also highlighted the positive progress of current students after 11 months of learning.

Java Under Threat of Major Earthquake, Surrounded by Active Faults and Megathrust

Researchers warn that Java faces significant earthquake risks from both the southern megathrust zone and numerous poorly understood active faults on land, including a major back-arc thrust stretching from Jakarta to Surabaya. The lack of detailed data on fault characteristics such as slip rates and maximum magnitude hampers accurate hazard assessment and the implementation of building restrictions near fault lines. BRIN is intensifying geological mapping to update hazard maps and support more effective disaster mitigation policies.

KPK Exposes Chain Corruption Pattern in Muara Enim, Bribes Allegedly Began Before Projects Were Designed

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered a systematic, end-to-end corruption cycle in Muara Enim Regency's budget management. The agency alleges that bribery, including 'project planting' payments, began even before official planning and budgeting stages. This early contamination is believed to trigger further irregularities such as price mark-ups, quality reductions, and document manipulation throughout the procurement process.

Indonesia targets Eurasian market expansion via Tajikistan cooperation

Indonesia is pursuing a strategic partnership with Tajikistan to use the Central Asian nation as a gateway for manufactured goods into the Commonwealth of Independent States. Bilateral talks at the BRICS PartNIR forum in Xiamen focused on complementary industrial strengths and a proposed MoU covering critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, and the halal ecosystem. The initiative aligns with Indonesia's broader push into Eurasia, including its upcoming role as partner country at the INNOPROM exhibition in Russia.

Gianyar Police Host Bird Singing Competition to Mark Bhayangkara Day 2026

The Gianyar Resort Police organised a bird singing competition with a total prize of Rp 55 million to commemorate the 80th Bhayangkara Day in 2026. The event, attended by 300 participants across 34 categories, aimed to strengthen community ties and synergy between the police and the public. Officials highlighted the competition as a positive platform to foster harmony and maintain security and order in the Gianyar Regency.

Deputy Minister Affirms Esports as a Collaborative Space for the Creative Economy

Deputy Minister of Creative Economy Irene Umar has pledged to develop esports into a 'creative playground' linking young talent with various creative subsectors. The initiative, announced at the MPL Indonesia Season 17 Grand Final, includes integrating six local intellectual properties into the league's thematic weeks. The collaboration aims to generate new career paths, business opportunities, and monetisable creative works beyond gaming, including fashion and animation.

Haris Rusly: Social Movements Opposing State Budget Allocation for the People Are an Anomaly

Activist Haris Rusly Moti has labelled social movements that reject state budget allocations for public welfare programmes as an extreme anomaly in Indonesia's tradition of social activism. He argued that critics should target corrupt officials rather than seeking to halt pro-people policies such as the free nutritious meal programme. Moti also contrasted current anti-government narratives with the pro-independence rhetoric of historical figures, praising President Prabowo's focus on national sovereignty and economic self-reliance.

People's School Buildings Must Prioritise Child Safety, Sudjatmiko: Cannot Be Built Carelessly

House Commission V member Sudjatmiko has stressed that the construction of Sekolah Rakyat (People's Schools) must adhere to high standards of child safety and environmental sustainability. During a working visit to Bekasi Regency, he identified a 20 percent work deviation and called for a comprehensive design review to ensure the project runs efficiently. He also urged the inclusion of safety features in classrooms and dormitories, robust sanitation facilities, and fruit-bearing trees to create a nurturing environment for underprivileged students.

Dharmawangsa Train Serves 180,784 Passengers, KAI Strengthens Subang Access on Java's North Coast Route

State railway operator PT KAI reported a 5.87% year-on-year increase in passengers on the Dharmawangsa train service along Java's northern corridor, serving 180,784 customers between January and May 2026. The service, which connects Jakarta to Surabaya, plays a crucial role for Subang Regency, where Pegaden Baru Station saw a 9.88% rise in boarding and alighting activity, reaching 52,985 passengers. KAI highlighted the station's growing importance in linking Subang's 1.67 million residents to major cities for work, education, and tourism.

DPR Deputy Speaker Applauds BI's Move to Strengthen Rupiah and Reduce US Dollar Dependence

Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has praised Bank Indonesia's new bilateral agreements with the People's Bank of China. The deals, which include a currency swap arrangement and expanded local currency transaction framework, aim to bolster the rupiah and reduce reliance on the US dollar for trade and investment between Indonesia, mainland China, and Hong Kong.

Dozens of Kiosks in Kampung Lio, Depok, Destroyed by Fire

A fire, believed to have started in a laundry kiosk, destroyed dozens of semi-permanent stalls in Kampung Lio, Depok, on Sunday evening. No casualties were reported, but firefighting efforts were hampered by limited water sources and the rapid spread of flames through the densely packed structures. Authorities are still assessing the total losses from the incident.

Indonesia's IPO pipeline gets thinner amid stock market jitters

The Indonesia Stock Exchange has seen only one initial public offering this year, with the pipeline of companies planning to list shrinking from 15 in April to 12 in June. Deteriorating market conditions and global and domestic pressures have unsettled investor confidence, prompting some firms to revise financial statements or delay approvals. Three companies in the consumer and healthcare sectors are still aiming to list by early July 2026.

Minister Erick: BTN Jakarta International Marathon 2026 to Drive Economy and Sport Tourism

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has praised the BTN Jakarta International Marathon 2026, highlighting its role in promoting healthy lifestyles and stimulating economic growth through sport tourism. The event, which drew 45,000 participants, is seen as a catalyst for sectors such as transport, hospitality, and local culinary businesses. Erick also proposed a future ASEAN regional marathon series in collaboration with neighbouring countries.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Welcomes Return of Hajj Pilgrims Flight 17 in Makassar

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Moch. Irvan Yusuf, personally received the arrival of Hajj pilgrims from Flight 17 at the Makassar debarkation point. He urged the returning pilgrims to maintain the quality of their worship and social conduct as a sign of an accepted pilgrimage. The minister also paid tribute to the dedication of Hajj officers, including one who passed away in service.

Indonesia seizes BRICS opportunity to modernise national agriculture

Indonesia is leveraging its BRICS partnership to accelerate agricultural modernisation, bolster national food security, and attract technology and investment. At the BRICS Agriculture Ministers' Meeting in India, the Indonesian delegation pushed for cooperation in seed systems, digital farming, and sustainable practices. The resulting joint declaration opens avenues for research collaboration, climate-resilient agriculture, and potential financing through the New Development Bank to support domestic productivity and farmer welfare.

Iran Unwilling to Be Bound by US Rules

Iran has indicated that a final decision on a proposed memorandum of agreement with the United States remains under discussion, despite claims by President Trump and Pakistan's prime minister that a deal was imminent. The negotiations, mediated by Pakistan, aim to resolve hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and address Iran's nuclear programme. Iranian officials accuse Washington of stalling progress through contradictory statements and shifting demands.

North Jakarta Water Resources Agency Repairs Collapsed Kali Pegangsaan Embankment, Completion by End of June

The North Jakarta Water Resources Agency (SDA) is repairing a 25-metre section of the Kali Pegangsaan embankment in Kelapa Gading that collapsed during dredging operations. The work, which involves replacing the old structure with a stone masonry wall, is targeted for completion by the end of June 2026 to mitigate flood risks. Dredging activities in the waterway are continuing at a different segment to prevent further siltation.

Israel Bombs Beirut Again: Is Netanyahu Sabotaging the Impending US-Iran Peace Deal?

Israel launched fresh airstrikes on southern Beirut, targeting what it claims is Hezbollah infrastructure, following drone attacks on Israeli military sites. The escalation, which includes forced displacement orders affecting thousands in southern Lebanon, comes amid speculation that Prime Minister Netanyahu may be seeking to derail a potential US-Iran peace agreement. Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich has publicly urged the implementation of the 'Dahiye Doctrine', calling for the destruction of buildings in the Beirut suburb.

KAI Adjusts LRT Jabodebek Schedule to Optimise Morning Peak Hour Service

PT Kereta Api Indonesia has revised the LRT Jabodebek timetable starting Monday to better accommodate high passenger volumes during the morning rush. The adjustment adds extra train frequencies on weekday mornings while modifying some evening departure times, maintaining a total of 430 daily trips. The operator says the change reflects an ongoing effort to adapt services to evolving commuter mobility patterns in the greater Jakarta area.

Elderly Man Nearly Kidnapped in PIK, Police Identify Two Suspects

A 70-year-old man narrowly escaped an attempted kidnapping while exercising in Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta, in May 2026. Police have identified two suspects and are pursuing them, while the victim sustained minor injuries and trauma. The motive remains under investigation.

UMJ's Islamic Communication Programme Reviews Curriculum to Boost Graduate Competitiveness

The Islamic Communication and Broadcasting programme at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta held a focus group discussion to review its curriculum, aiming to align it with evolving industry demands. The initiative seeks to integrate Islamic literacy with professional skills, including artificial intelligence for digital da'wah. Input from academics, media practitioners, and institutions like BAZNAS highlighted the need for technical competence and teamwork to ensure graduates remain competitive.

Viral Duck Perched on Green Line KRL Roof, KCI Provides Clarification

A duck was spotted on the roof of a KRL carriage at Sudimara Station, causing a viral stir on social media with claims of a 10-minute delay. KAI Commuter Indonesia clarified that no disruption to the Green Line service occurred and the duck was safely secured. The company reiterated its strict prohibition against passengers bringing pets or animals onto commuter trains.

Indonesia's First VP Said People's Lives Were Harder Than During the Colonial Era

Mohammad Hatta, Indonesia's first vice president, wrote a scathing letter to President Soekarno in 1963, asserting that the economic suffering of the people was more severe than under Dutch or Japanese rule. He attributed the crisis to misguided economic policies, rampant inflation, and conspicuous consumption by a new elite. The letter stands as one of the most forceful critiques of Soekarno's leadership before his eventual downfall.

BYD Expands Education Support Programme to 45 Cities in Indonesia

Chinese automaker BYD is broadening its 'Small Steps for Tomorrow' educational initiative in Indonesia, aiming to reach schools in 45 cities through its dealer network. The programme, which has already distributed shoes and bags to students, was launched at a Depok primary school attended by the Deputy Minister for Primary and Secondary Education. BYD views the social contribution as part of its sustainability commitment, linking each vehicle sold to the expansion of the programme.

Minister Erick Thohir Flags Off 8,000 Runners at BTN Jakarta International Marathon 2026

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir officially started the BTN Jakarta International Marathon 2026, which drew 8,000 marathon runners and over 1,000 international participants. The event, part of Jakarta's 499th anniversary celebrations, featured elite athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, and Japan. Organisers aim to promote active lifestyles and strengthen the capital's position as a sport tourism destination.

Bareskrim Foils Shipment of 10 Packages of Marijuana from Padang to Sidoarjo

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim) has intercepted a shipment of ten packages of dried marijuana sent from Padang, West Sumatra, to Sidoarjo, East Java. A 28-year-old man, MAH, was arrested after collecting the package disguised as clothing. The police are now searching for the main suspect, Kurniawan, who allegedly recruited MAH and promised him payment per kilogram of the illicit substance.

Viral: Indonesian Migrant Worker Assaulted in Malaysia, Four Suspects Arrested

Malaysian police in Johor have arrested four individuals suspected of assaulting an Indonesian domestic worker, following the viral spread of a video showing the interrogation and beating. The suspects, reportedly two married couples, are under investigation, while the Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru has confirmed the victim is safe and has reported the incident to authorities.

Megawati Pays Respects at Bung Karno's Tomb in Blitar, Accompanied by Family

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri visited the grave of her father, founding President Sukarno, in Blitar, East Java, accompanied by family and senior party officials. The pilgrimage, a regular tradition for the PDIP chairwoman, serves as a moment of personal reflection and political contemplation. Party Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto stated the visit symbolises keeping the spirit of Sukarno's struggle alive amid the nation's complex dynamics.

The trust that led to a world record

Samira Travel, an Indonesian Hajj and Umrah operator, secured a Guinness World Record for the largest halal outdoor dinner in Saudi Arabia. The achievement, celebrated during the company's 10th anniversary, highlights the deeper story of building and maintaining customer trust over many years. The founder emphasises that safeguarding the long-cherished dreams of pilgrims is more valuable than the record itself.

Hajj pilgrims from Group 08 combining South and Central Kalimantan arrive home

A combined group of 356 Hajj pilgrims from South and Central Kalimantan provinces arrived safely at Banjarmasin's Syamsuddin Noor Airport. The arrival brings the total number of returned pilgrims under the Banjarmasin Debarkation to 2,869, with 11 more groups still in Saudi Arabia. Officials reported the pilgrims were in generally good health and emphasised the spiritual challenge of maintaining their devotion after returning home.

Jayapura City Government Prepares 100 Hectares of Land for Rice Cultivation

The Jayapura City Government in Papua has readied 100 hectares of land in Muara Tami District for rice planting to bolster the national food self-sufficiency programme. Mayor Abisai Rollo also revealed plans to propose an additional 200-300 hectares for new paddy fields and 100 hectares for cocoa plantation development. The initiatives aim to strengthen regional food security, improve farmer welfare, and support central government priorities.

Donald Trump's Name Removed from Kennedy Center Building

The Kennedy Center has removed President Donald Trump's name from its Washington, D.C. building following a federal court order. The ruling stated that only Congress has the authority to approve the renaming of the institution. The legal dispute continues, with further arguments scheduled for later this month.

World Blood Donor Day 2026: PMI Calls on Public to Strengthen Humanitarian Solidarity Through Blood Donation

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) is marking World Blood Donor Day 2026 with a nationwide campaign urging regular, voluntary blood donations to bolster national supplies. The initiative highlights that a single blood bag can be processed into multiple components, benefiting several patients and strengthening the healthcare system. PMI emphasises that ensuring a safe and adequate blood supply requires collaboration between the government, private sector, media, and the wider community.

Finance Ministry Targets Rp 12 Trillion from Sukuk Auction

The Indonesian government aims to raise Rp 12 trillion through an auction of eight series of Sharia-compliant government bonds (SBSN) on 17 June 2026. Investor interest has shown signs of recovery, with incoming bids rising to Rp 26.04 trillion in the previous auction. The proceeds will help finance the 2026 state budget deficit, which is targeted at Rp 689.1 trillion.

Flower Float Parade at JIFF 2026

The Jakarta International Flower Festival (JIFF) 2026 featured a flower float parade in Kemanggisan, showcasing industry collaboration and global partnerships. The event aims to celebrate floral beauty and innovation while supporting the revitalisation of the Rawa Belong Flower Market. It also seeks to promote Indonesian floriculture on the global stage.

D~NET Expands Service Reach in Kediri to Support Growing Business Connectivity Needs

Indonesian telecommunications company D~NET has opened a new branch office in Kediri, East Java, to capitalise on the region's rapid economic growth and strategic infrastructure projects such as Dhoho Airport. The expansion aims to provide local businesses with more responsive, high-quality internet services. The company is also developing its network in other regions like Makassar and Manado as part of a national coverage strategy.

BMKG Predicts Dry Season in Greater Malang to Last Until November 2026

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast an extended dry season for the Greater Malang area, expected to persist until October or November 2026. The prolonged drought is attributed to an El Niño phenomenon predicted to last into early 2027, with the agency warning of water shortages and heightened forest fire risks.

Battery-Powered Trains to Debut on Bandung-Cicalengka Line, Here's a Preview

State railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) plans to introduce battery electric multiple units (BEMU) on the Padalarang-Cicalengka commuter line in Greater Bandung starting next year. The initiative aims to bypass the high cost and limited coverage of conventional overhead electrification, which currently spans only 10 per cent of Indonesia's rail network. A pilot procurement process is scheduled to begin in September 2026, with the first trainset expected to arrive by the second quarter of 2027.

House Praises BI's Move to Partner with China, Rupiah Strengthens and Trade Transactions No Longer Rely on US Dollar

Indonesia's House of Representatives has commended Bank Indonesia for signing a Bilateral Currency Swap Arrangement with China, a move seen as bolstering national economic resilience. The agreement, which also expands local currency transactions to include Hong Kong, allows direct trade using rupiah and renminbi. This strategic shift aims to strengthen the rupiah's international position and reduce reliance on the US dollar.

Stem Cell Clinic Expands Global Network, Boosts Indonesia's Medical Tourism

Jakarta's Klinik dr. Yanti Stem Cell is marking its second anniversary by expanding internationally with branches in Dubai and a planned opening in Cancun, aiming to position Indonesia as a medical tourism hub. The clinic has treated over 100 patients for conditions like diabetes and stroke, and is introducing new programmes including biohacking and an ultra-luxury medical tourism package. Its founder hopes the expansion will help reduce foreign exchange outflows and attract international patients, while calling for greater government support for regenerative therapy.

UI Responds to Student Press Outlet SUMA UI's LGBTQ Content

The University of Indonesia (UI) has distanced itself from a controversial social media post on Pride Month and LGBTIQ issues by its student press unit, SUMA UI, stating it was a purely editorial view. The university is conducting an internal review to ensure student activities align with its code of ethics, while SUMA UI alumni have also expressed regret over the content. The post, which featured the Garuda Pancasila silhouette against a rainbow flag, was deleted after sparking public debate.

UMJ Attends Conference and Signs MoU in China to Boost Global Collaboration

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) has expanded its international network by participating in a workshop and signing a memorandum of understanding with Tieling Health Vocational College in Liaoning Province, China. The collaboration, part of the Belt and Road Initiative's Mozi Workshop, aims to strengthen vocational education and health industry ties between the two nations. UMJ's rector expressed hope that the partnership will lead to concrete programmes, including potential double degree schemes and improved human resource development.

Dolok Merangir Station: The Vital Artery of Mobility in North Simalungun

Dolok Merangir Station in North Sumatra has recorded a 20 per cent increase in passenger numbers, serving 5,300 customers in the first five months of 2026. The station, which dates back to 1916, also plays a critical safety role as a mandatory transit point for fuel trains navigating a steep 20 permil incline. PT KAI Divre I Sumatera Utara has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining this historic yet modern infrastructure hub.

Observer: Kalimantan railway network to strengthen logistics transport

Transport observer Djoko Setijowarno has stated that the planned railway network on Kalimantan Island could significantly enhance logistics distribution and regional connectivity, supporting long-term economic growth and investment. The rail system is seen as a complement to the island's traditional river transport, creating a multimodal logistics system linking production centres, industrial zones, and ports. The government is currently planning 2,772 kilometres of track, with Coordinating Minister AHY confirming the project is under careful calculation and planning.

Starting 18 October 2026, These 7 Product Categories Must Have Halal Certification

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has urged businesses to prepare for the second phase of mandatory halal certification, which takes effect on 18 October 2026. The expanded regulation will cover not only food and beverages but also cosmetics, chemical products, traditional medicines, and household goods. Officials stress that halal certification has evolved into a global standard for quality, safety, and consumer trust, offering economic value and competitive advantage.

Situbondo Police and SMAN 2 Hold English Competition Featuring Native Speaker from Bristol

The Situbondo Police collaborated with a local state high school to host an academic and English competition for kindergarten, primary, and junior high students ahead of the 80th Bhayangkara Day. The event featured a native English-speaking judge from Bristol and aimed to boost students' confidence and global competitiveness. The police chief emphasised the initiative as part of the force's commitment to nurturing an intelligent, high-achieving, and law-abiding young generation.

Johor Police Arrest Malaysian Employers Suspected of Assaulting Indonesian Domestic Worker

Police in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, have arrested four Malaysian nationals suspected of repeatedly assaulting an Indonesian domestic worker, following a viral video of the incident. The suspects, two married couples, are being investigated over the July 2025 attack, and authorities suspect similar violence may have been inflicted on two other Indonesian domestic workers. The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru has reported the case to police and confirmed the victim is currently staying at a friend's residence.