Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 June 2026

Showing 201-250 of 715 articles

ASDP Affirms Commitment to Strengthen Services Supporting School Holiday Mobility

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is reinforcing safety and service standards ahead of the school holiday travel surge, particularly on the strategic Merak–Bakauheni route. The company has optimised its fleet, upgraded port facilities, and is supporting a government economic stimulus by offering a 100% port service fee discount on certain routes. Mandatory vessel seaworthiness inspections are also being conducted in coordination with the Ministry of Transportation to ensure passenger safety.

KAI Services Explores MSME Partnership Opportunities at IPB Campuspreneur

KAI Services presented partnership opportunities for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) during a Campuspreneur talk show at IPB University in Bogor. The state-owned railway subsidiary highlighted its role in creating markets for curated MSME products through its retail channels, including on-train dining and station cafes. The initiative, supported by collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, aims to boost MSME competitiveness and expand their market reach across Java and Sumatra.

IHR Paku Alam Cup 2026 Features Local-Class Horse Racing Competition

The IHR Paku Alam Cup 2026 in Yogyakarta introduces a local-class horse racing competition aimed at reviving public enthusiasm for the sport. Organised by Pordasi, Sarga.co, and the Duchy of Pakualaman, the event mandates that all participants and horses in this class originate from the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The broader championship, featuring 155 horses from 10 provinces, also seeks to blend sport with cultural entertainment to restore Indonesia's equestrian traditions.

No Longer Beef Rendang, This Is Indonesians' Favourite Menu at Padang Eateries

Indonesian consumers are shifting away from premium dishes like beef rendang at Padang restaurants, opting instead for cheaper meal packages as purchasing power declines. Traders report a noticeable drop in sales of expensive items and a rise in demand for budget options priced between Rp 15,000 and Rp 20,000, particularly during mid to late month periods. The trend reflects broader economic pressures, with some customers even buying only vegetables and sambal to take home.

Bengkayang Finalises Preparations for Integrated National School Construction

The Bengkayang Regency Government in West Kalimantan is advancing preparations to build an Integrated National School (SNT) after being designated a priority recipient for the programme in 2026. The initiative represents a central and regional government synergy aimed at improving human resource quality through equitable, high-standard education. Bengkayang is one of only two districts in the province selected for the programme, alongside Sambas Regency.

IPIM Urges Improved Welfare for Imams and Strengthening the Role of Mosques

The Ittihad Persaudaraan Imam Masjid (IPIM) has called for greater attention to the welfare of mosque imams and their families, highlighting their strategic role in shaping the character of Indonesia's future generations. Speaking at a preliminary event in Makassar attended by around 5,000 imams, the organisation's steering committee chair stressed that imams possess significant social influence through the extensive network of mosques across the country. The initiative forms part of the lead-up to the International Grand Imam Conference planned for late 2026 in Jakarta.

Prabowo Receives Miniature of Warship Mikasa from Japanese Defence Minister

President Prabowo Subianto received a model of the battleship Mikasa from Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi during a private dinner in Jakarta, symbolising closer personal ties and defence cooperation. The meeting also covered Japan's appreciation for Prabowo's support of Indonesian cadets at Yokosuka's defence university and the critical importance of maritime security in the Malacca and Lombok Straits. Senior ministers from both nations attended and agreed to deepen bilateral collaboration for regional stability.

Economic Census to Run from 15 June to 31 August, Here Are the Enumerator Characteristics

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) will conduct the 2026 Economic Census from June to August, targeting micro, small, and medium enterprises through door-to-door visits. The census aims to map the nation's economic structure and business characteristics to support strategic planning. Officials have clarified that enumerators are not debt or tax collectors and have outlined their official attributes to help the public identify legitimate personnel.

Comprehensive Governance Reform of Free Nutritious Meal Programme an Investment in Long-Term Human Capital

A culinary practitioner has urged President Prabowo Subianto to safeguard the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, framing it as a strategic long-term investment in Indonesia's human capital rather than mere food aid. In an open letter, Jawel Husin warned that recent corruption cases at the National Nutrition Agency threaten public trust and the viability of the ecosystem. He called for comprehensive governance reforms, legal certainty for honest partners, and intensive communication to ensure the programme's success in building a healthier, more competitive generation for Indonesia Emas 2045.

Push to Reduce Air Pollution Impact in Satellite Cities

A community forum in South Tangerang highlighted the severe health and psychological impacts of air pollution in Jakarta's satellite cities. Experts called for improved public transport systems and better waste management to combat high PM2.5 levels that exceed WHO safety thresholds.

Shophouse on Jalan Baru Depok Catches Fire, Three Fire Engines Deployed

A fire broke out in a semi-permanent shophouse on Jalan Baru in Depok on Sunday afternoon, spreading to adjacent structures. The Depok Fire and Rescue Service deployed three fire engines and 12 personnel to tackle the blaze, with no casualties reported. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage remain under investigation.

PKS Faction Highlights 2025 Budget Accountability Bill: Jakarta Needs Fiscal Independence

The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) faction in the Jakarta DPRD has raised concerns over the 2025 budget accountability draft, citing a decline in locally generated revenue and low tax collection performance. The faction urged the city administration to push for greater data transparency from the central government and to reconsider full tax exemptions for electric vehicles. It also called for more accurate budgeting of contingency funds to avoid contributing to large year-end surpluses.

54,056 Prospective Students Accepted via Domicile Route in East Java's 2026 SPMB

The first stage of East Java's 2026 New Student Admission System (SPMB) has accepted 54,056 applicants through the domicile route, out of over 213,000 registrants. The selection process now prioritises a combined score of academic records and a test, alongside distance, age, and registration time. Unsuccessful candidates still have opportunities in subsequent stages, including affirmation, competition achievements, and academic merit routes.

Iran Still Reviewing Final Decision on Peace Deal with US

Iran has indicated that a final decision on a proposed memorandum of agreement with the United States remains under discussion, with political, legal, and technical aspects still being reviewed. Despite claims by US President Donald Trump and Pakistan's Prime Minister that a deal was imminent, Tehran has denied it would be signed on Sunday. The Pakistan-mediated diplomacy aims to end hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and reach an accord on Iran's nuclear programme.

Visiting Masjid Fash, Where the Prophet Prayed Dhuhr After Nearly Being Killed in the Battle of Uhud

Masjid Fash, a small mosque at the foot of Mount Uhud in Madinah, marks the site where Prophet Muhammad performed the Dhuhr prayer after sustaining severe injuries during the Battle of Uhud. The historic structure, measuring just six by four metres, has undergone several restorations, most recently under King Salman bin Abdulaziz. Nearby caves where the Prophet sought refuge have been sealed with cement by Saudi authorities to prevent reported deviations by visitors.

Papua Provincial Government and BRIN to Build Spaceport in Biak Numfor Regency

The Papua Provincial Government, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and the Biak Numfor Regency administration have signed a memorandum of understanding to plan and construct a spaceport in the region. The project is viewed as a strategic investment opportunity expected to boost local economic growth, create jobs, and enhance human resource capacity. Biak Numfor's geographical position is considered highly suitable for supporting Indonesia's future space activities.

Often Considered Weak, the Song Dynasty Was Actually the Most Advanced Era in Chinese History

Contrary to its reputation for military weakness, the Song Dynasty (960–1279) is now regarded by many historians as a pinnacle of Chinese civilisation. The era witnessed unprecedented advancements in economics, technology, education, and urban life, with its capitals among the world's largest cities. This period of transformation laid the foundations for a sophisticated pre-modern economy and established China as a major hub of international maritime trade.

Unequal Competition with State Universities Threatens Private University Sustainability in Indonesia

The expansion of independent admission quotas by state universities with legal entity status (PTNBH) is placing severe financial pressure on private universities (PTS) in Indonesia. A senior academic warns that strategies like lowering tuition fees to attract students could lead to institutional financial collapse and the closure of study programmes. The trend is compounded by the proliferation of regional universities and declining public purchasing power, prompting calls for fairer government policies.

Indonesian Researchers Discover Anti-Cancer Properties in Stingless Bee Honey

Researchers from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have identified probiotic lactic acid bacteria in local stingless bee honey and bee pollen with significant anti-cancer, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. The findings, published in international journals and secured with a patent, highlight the potential for developing functional foods and nutribiotics from Indonesia's biodiversity. The isolated bacteria demonstrated the ability to inhibit colon cancer cells and may also assist in blood sugar control.

Pertamina Boosts People's Economy, Ensures Creation of Driving SMEs

State-owned energy giant Pertamina has selected 10 champion SMEs for its Pertapreneur Aggregator programme, aimed at fostering grassroots economic growth. The initiative provides business acceleration, mentoring, and international market access to transform top-performing small enterprises into ecosystem drivers. The programme recorded a Social Return on Investment of 2.21, meaning every Rp1 invested generated Rp2.21 in social, economic, and environmental benefits.

Gresik SEZ Investment Reaches Rp113.4 Trillion, Government Supports Expansion

The Indonesian government has pledged full support for the expansion of the Gresik Special Economic Zone (KEK) after cumulative investment reached Rp113.4 trillion by the first quarter of 2026. The zone has seen a dramatic surge in investment and job creation since its designation, with realised investment rising over 1,900 per cent. The expansion aims to accommodate growing investor interest and strengthen the region's role in manufacturing, logistics, and green energy.

SpaceX Propels Elon Musk to Become World's First Trillionaire, Wealth Exceeds Rp17,000 Trillion

Elon Musk has become the world's first trillionaire, with his net worth surpassing US$1 trillion (approximately Rp17,000 trillion), driven primarily by the soaring valuation of his aerospace company SpaceX. A recent US$75 billion share offering significantly boosted SpaceX's value, making it the largest contributor to Musk's fortune ahead of Tesla. This milestone creates an unprecedented wealth gap, with the world's second-richest person holding less than a third of Musk's total assets.

Dasco Appreciates BI and China Central Bank Cooperation to Strengthen Rupiah

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has praised a new bilateral currency swap arrangement between Bank Indonesia and the People's Bank of China, calling it a concrete step to bolster national economic resilience. The agreement allows trade transactions between Indonesia, mainland China, and Hong Kong to be settled in rupiah or renminbi, reducing reliance on the US dollar. It also includes the implementation of a cross-border QRIS payment system.

Social Affairs Minister welcomes parents and prospective students of Sekolah Rakyat in Pekanbaru

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf held an open house in Pekanbaru to welcome families joining the Sekolah Rakyat programme, a flagship initiative of President Prabowo Subianto targeting the poorest communities. The programme currently operates 166 schools with over 15,000 students and plans to expand to more than 45,000 pupils this year, including a new permanent facility in Kuantan Singingi. The boarding school model combines academic instruction with character-building and has reportedly boosted students' confidence and multilingual skills.

Depok's Situ Bahar Turns Black and Foul-Smelling, Suspected of Waste Contamination; DLHK Takes Action

Situ Bahar lake in Cilodong, Depok, has turned black and emits a pungent odour, allegedly due to years of pollution. The Depok Environmental and Hygiene Agency (DLHK) is coordinating with Bogor Regency authorities to identify and pursue companies suspected of dumping waste into the water body. The agency also plans to dredge sediment and ensure domestic waste is treated before entering the lake.

UK Intercepts Sanctioned Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker in English Channel

British forces intercepted a sanctioned oil tanker belonging to Russia's shadow fleet in the English Channel during a six-hour operation. The vessel, used to circumvent Western sanctions and fund the war in Ukraine, was boarded by Royal Marine Commandos and National Crime Agency officers. The UK government described the action as a significant blow to Russia's ability to finance its illegal conflict.

Boosting Jakarta's Sport Tourism Sector Through Padel Competition

The Kemayoran Complex Management Centre (PPK Kemayoran) has launched its inaugural padel tournament as part of its 41st anniversary, aiming to strengthen strategic collaboration with corporate partners. The event is designed to align stakeholders towards transforming the Kemayoran area into a clean, green, and safe business and residential cluster. This initiative forms part of a broader roadmap to expand public facilities and boost sport tourism in the capital.

Jakarta's New Toll Road Projects Listed Under Prabowo's National Strategic Projects

The Indonesian government has designated nine new toll road projects in Jakarta as National Strategic Projects (PSN) under a 2025 Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs regulation. The list includes six inner-city toll segments, the Jakarta-Cikampek II South Side toll, and access routes to Tanjung Priok Port. The regulation also mandates that responsible parties report delays and propose revised completion plans to the coordinating minister.

Business Acceleration Programme Produces 10 Globally Competitive MSMEs

Pertamina's Pertapreneur Aggregator programme has selected ten champion micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) poised for international expansion. The initiative provided intensive mentoring, business matching, and grants to foster aggregators that empower other small businesses. The programme reported a Social Return on Investment of Rp2.21 for every Rp1 invested.

Galungan Hampers Sell Like Hot Cakes, Orders Reach Hundreds of Packages

Businesses selling hampers in Badung Regency, Bali, are experiencing a surge in orders ahead of the Galungan holiday, with one shop dispatching 700 packages since May. The trend is dominated by individual buyers sending gifts to relatives and colleagues, marking a shift from the corporate-dominated orders typically seen before Nyepi. Sellers offer flexible pricing from Rp 50,000 to Rp 800,000 per package and deliver across several Balinese regencies.

INDEF: Pertamina's Non-Subsidised Fuel Price Hike Is a Business Reality

Economists at INDEF argue that the sharp rise in Pertamina's non-subsidised Pertamax fuel price is a logical response to global energy market dynamics and rupiah depreciation, not a sign of fiscal distress. They note the actual economic price is far higher, with Pertamina absorbing a significant margin to maintain social stability. The institute warns against politicising the commercial pricing decision and highlights the growing competitive pressure from electric vehicle adoption.

Industry Ministry Targets Strengthening Indonesian Industrial Market Access to Eurasia

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is seeking to bolster access for domestic manufactured goods into Eurasia by deepening cooperation with Tajikistan. Bilateral talks at the BRICS PartNIR forum in China identified collaboration opportunities in critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, and the halal ecosystem. The initiative also aims to leverage Tajikistan as a strategic gateway to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region.

East Java and Malaysian Investor Study Integrated Logistics Project Worth Up to US$100 Million

The East Java provincial government and Malaysian firm SAEngineersMy Sdn. Bhd. are advancing plans for an integrated logistics, quarantine, and trade hub in Sidoarjo, with initial investment estimates ranging from US$50 million to US$100 million. The project aims to capitalise on East Java's strategic role as a national distribution centre, where 80 per cent of logistics for eastern Indonesia originate. A detailed proposal, including master plan and cash flow projections, is expected this month.

Bogor Police Distribute 500 Kilograms of Vegetables at Bhayangkara Fest

The Bogor Resort Police distributed 500 kilograms of fresh vegetables to the public during the Bhayangkara Fest in Cibinong, West Java, as part of the 80th Police Day celebrations. The 'Sayur Berkah' programme aims to strengthen community ties and support family nutrition through partnerships with local farmers. The event also offered various public services, including mobile driving licence processing and free legal consultations.

World Bank Highlights 20 Percent of Wealthy Citizens Enjoy Fuel Subsidies

The World Bank has urged Indonesia to reform its fuel subsidy scheme, noting that 20 percent of the wealthiest households receive half of the total subsidy benefits. The recommendation comes amid elevated global oil prices, which are straining the state budget and eroding fiscal space. The bank proposes a sequenced approach including gradual price adjustments, targeted cash transfers for the poorest 40 percent, and transparent reallocation of savings to social protection and public investment.

ASDP Strengthens Services and Safety for School Holiday Crossings

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is enhancing fleet readiness, passenger facilities, and safety protocols ahead of the anticipated surge in travel during the school holiday period. The company is also supporting a government economic stimulus by offering significant port fee discounts on key routes, including Merak–Bakauheni. ASDP emphasises that safety remains the cornerstone of its operations, reinforced by mandatory ship seaworthiness inspections.

Mubeng Beteng Jogja Schedule for 1 Suro Night 2026: Complete Route and How to Participate

The annual Javanese New Year tradition of Mubeng Beteng, a silent walk around the Yogyakarta Palace fortifications, will take place on the night of 16 June 2026. Organised by the Yogyakarta Culture Office and palace courtiers, the free event requires no registration and is open to the public. Participants must adhere to a dress code and refrain from bringing organisational attributes during the Tapa Bisu ritual.

Basuki Reveals Latest Progress on MPR-DPR Building Project in Nusantara

Nusantara Capital City Authority Head Basuki Hadimuljono has confirmed that construction of the legislative and judicial complexes in Indonesia's new capital is advancing steadily. The projects include parliament buildings, supreme court facilities, and supporting infrastructure such as roads and retention ponds. Basuki emphasised that the development is a collective effort to establish modern, inclusive, and sustainable governance foundations for future generations.

Zulhas urges stakeholders to build Aisyiyah centre in Medan

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has called on regional leaders and parliamentarians to contribute to the construction of an Aisyiyah dakwah building in Medan, North Sumatra. The appeal was made during the organisation's 109th anniversary celebration, highlighting Aisyiyah's longstanding social contributions. Medan's mayor expressed the city's readiness to collaborate, noting the organisation's direct community impact.

Basarnas Ambon Involves Police Patrol Boat in Search for Eight Missing Speedboat Passengers

The Ambon Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has coordinated with the Maluku Police's water unit to deploy a patrol boat in the search for eight missing passengers from a sunken speedboat. The vessel sank in rough seas near Dai Island, Southwest Maluku Regency, with only two of the ten passengers managing to swim to safety. Search efforts involving joint SAR teams and a cargo ship have so far yielded no results.

Qatari Delegation Arrives in Tehran to Review Mediation Process to End US-Iran War

A Qatari delegation has arrived in Tehran to facilitate diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the protracted war between Iran and the United States. The visit comes amid conflicting signals, with Washington and Pakistan indicating a deal could be signed imminently, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards have dismissed President Trump's claim that an agreement would be finalised on Sunday. The potential reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz is a key focus of the negotiations.

ASDP Strengthens Ferry Services and Safety to Support School Holiday Travel

State-owned ferry operator ASDP Indonesia Ferry is enhancing its services and safety measures across key routes, particularly Merak–Bakauheni, in anticipation of increased mobility during the school holiday period. The company is optimising its fleet, improving passenger facilities, and reinforcing safety protocols. Additionally, ASDP is supporting a government economic stimulus programme by offering a 100% port fee discount, effectively reducing total ticket prices by an average of 21.9% on select routes.

76,580 SPMB Accounts for Senior High Schools in Riau Activated

Over 76,500 accounts have been activated for Riau's new online student admission system (SPMB) for the 2026/2027 academic year, with the majority of applicants still targeting their first-choice school. Technical officials report the system is running smoothly, but the main challenges stem from applicants' understanding of administrative requirements, particularly regarding achievement certificates and family card domicile rules.

Welcoming Bhayangkara Day, Akpol 1990 Alumni Hold Social and Health Services in Bogor

The Indonesian National Police and alumni of the 1990 Police Academy conducted social and health outreach in Megamendung, Bogor, as part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations. The initiative provided 500 food packages, aid to 110 orphans and underprivileged children, and free medical check-ups for 204 residents, with hypertension identified as the most common ailment. Senior police officials emphasised the event's role in strengthening community ties and ensuring the police force's presence delivers tangible benefits.

Climate Crisis Demands Comprehensive Approach to Biodiversity Conservation

Indonesian officials argue that biodiversity conservation amid the climate crisis must move beyond species protection to embrace comprehensive governance, sustainable development, and indigenous community rights. The International Symposium on Wildlife Biodiversity Conservation 2026 highlighted the need to integrate ecological connectivity into infrastructure projects and strengthen law enforcement using technology. Speakers emphasised that recognising indigenous territories and adopting a 'nature positive' approach are foundational to the nation's environmental future.

Prabowo Receives Japanese Defence Minister, Gifted Model of Warship Mikasa

President Prabowo Subianto hosted Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi at his private residence in Jakarta, where he was presented with a model of the historic battleship Mikasa. The meeting underscored deepening defence ties, with both sides agreeing to follow up on discussions and strengthen bilateral cooperation. Koizumi also expressed gratitude for Prabowo's attention to Japan's National Defence Academy and highlighted the importance of maritime security for regional stability.

Dasco Praises BI for Strengthening Rupiah and Reducing Indonesia's Dependence on US Dollar

Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has commended Bank Indonesia for its efforts to bolster the rupiah's role in international transactions. New agreements with the central banks of China and Hong Kong aim to expand the use of local currencies in bilateral trade, reducing reliance on the US dollar. The move is seen as a strategic step to deepen economic integration with key Asian trading partners.

Imams hold strategic role in building civilisation, says Minister

Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, emphasised the strategic role of mosque imams in fostering Islamic civilisation and promoting moderate, peaceful values. Speaking at an IPIM gathering in Makassar, he highlighted the imam's function as a spiritual intermediary and outlined plans to consolidate their network nationwide. The initiative aims to position Indonesia as a modern centre of Islamic civilisation that projects a compassionate and inclusive image.

Indonesia accelerates roadmap toward milk self-sufficiency

Indonesia is accelerating a comprehensive dairy roadmap to reduce its heavy reliance on imports, which currently supply nearly 80 percent of domestic demand. The government stresses the need for integrated upstream-to-downstream development, involving collaboration between public, private, and research sectors to boost national production from 1 million to 4 million tons annually. The initiative aims to strengthen food security, improve nutrition, and deliver greater economic benefits to local dairy farmers.

UI Evaluates Student Media After LGBT-Themed Pride Month Post Sparks Controversy

The University of Indonesia (UI) has launched an internal evaluation after its student press body, SUMA UI, posted a Pride Month illustration featuring the Garuda Pancasila with a rainbow flag background. The university distanced itself from the content, stating it was purely the editorial view of the student organisation and did not reflect UI's official stance. Alumni of SUMA UI also publicly expressed regret, criticising the post for deviating from the organisation's moderate and nonpartisan journalistic traditions.