Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 June 2026

Showing 251-300 of 715 articles

When the Indonesian President's Personal Assistant Clashed with a Four-Star General

A historical account reveals a bitter power struggle within President Soeharto's inner circle during the New Order era. The conflict pitted presidential assistant and intelligence operative Ali Moertopo against the powerful security chief General Soemitro, culminating in Soemitro's resignation following the 1974 Malari riots. Soeharto ultimately intervened to dismantle the competing power centres to prevent any aide from amassing excessive influence.

Denny JA Reveals the Emergence of a New Social Class Called the Vulnerable Digital Worker, What Is It?

Indonesian political observer Denny JA has identified the rise of a new social class, the Digitally Vulnerable Class (DVC), born from the era of 'algorithmic capitalism'. This group, comprising millions of online drivers, freelancers, and content creators, faces a unique form of precarity where their livelihoods are dictated by opaque platform algorithms rather than human employers. The analysis highlights a structural shift in Indonesia's digital economy, where a single system update can instantly terminate a worker's income.

Taiwan Proposes Tougher Penalties for Military Service Evaders

Taiwan's Ministry of the Interior has proposed legal amendments to impose a minimum one-year prison sentence for men who evade mandatory military service. The move follows public outcry over several high-profile cases, including those involving entertainment figures, and aims to close loopholes that currently allow offenders to receive lenient sentences or fines.

Environment Ministry Partners with Interfaith Leaders to Promote Ecological Repentance Movement

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment is strengthening collaboration with interfaith leaders to expand a moral movement for environmental protection amid the escalating global ecological crisis. Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat emphasised that saving the environment requires not only technical policies and law enforcement but also a spiritual and moral awakening rooted in religious communities. The initiative, involving figures like Din Syamsuddin and supported by organisations such as the Indonesian Ulema Council and the Communion of Churches in Indonesia, aims to translate religious teachings into concrete actions like eco-friendly places of worship and community-based conservation.

Gold Prices Poised to Rise as Investors Monitor US-Iran Peace Deal

Gold prices are expected to trade between Rp 2.5 million and Rp 2.88 million per gram next week, influenced by geopolitical developments and US monetary policy. A potential peace agreement between the US and Iran, including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, could prompt investors to shift from the US dollar to gold as a safe haven asset. Analysts note that while the deal may ease oil prices, lingering regional tensions could sustain volatility in commodity markets.

How to Check Ministry of Social Affairs Social Assistance for June 2026 via Mobile Phone Using NIK

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs enables citizens to verify their eligibility for social assistance programmes for June 2026 online using their National Identity Number (NIK). The service covers schemes such as the Family Hope Programme (PKH) and Non-Cash Food Assistance (BPNT), with data updated based on the National Single Socio-Economic Data (DTSEN). This allows recipients to check their status without visiting local government offices.

Garut Youth Falls Victim to Job Scam for Squid Boat Crew in Muara Angke

A 24-year-old man from Garut, West Java, was allegedly defrauded by a fake job advertisement for a squid fishing vessel crew in North Jakarta. The victim reported the case to police after discovering discrepancies in promised cash advances and hidden deductions for meals, travel, and sponsorship fees. Authorities mediated a family settlement, but the criminal investigation into social media recruitment scams continues.

Pavement on Jalan Ambon in Bandung Turned into a Car Garage

A pavement on Jalan Ambon in Bandung has been illegally converted into a parking structure, sparking public outcry after footage went viral. The Bandung Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) confirmed the structure lacks permits and violates regional regulations, as pavements are exclusively designated for pedestrians. Authorities plan to order the owner to demolish the building and will forcibly remove it if the owner fails to comply.

98 Resolution Network Highlights 'Dark Indonesia' Narrative, Here's What It Says

The 98 Resolution Network has criticised the emergence of social movement narratives such as 'Dark Indonesia' and 'Flee Indonesia', labelling them an anomaly in the country's activist tradition. The group contrasts these with historical movements that championed sovereignty and argues that President Prabowo's programmes aim for self-reliance. It also defended the free nutritious meal programme as a pioneering effort requiring time to mature.

Two Kendari Subdistrict Heads Suspended After Alcohol-Fuelled Party with Women at Government Office

Two subdistrict heads in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, have been temporarily removed from their posts after being caught hosting a drinking party with women suspected of being commercial sex workers at a government office. The incident came to light following a dispute over payment, which drew the attention of local residents who then alerted the police. The municipal government has appointed acting officials to ensure public services continue uninterrupted while legal proceedings are underway.

Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo Urges Citizens to Strengthen Harmony and Obey Japanese Law

The Indonesian Embassy in Tokyo held a dialogue to improve Indonesian citizens' understanding of Japanese laws, norms, and culture. Ambassador Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir emphasised that cultural differences are an asset for strengthening people-to-people relations, while also acknowledging social and legal challenges faced by Indonesians. Japanese officials supported the initiative, highlighting the need for cross-cultural understanding to prevent misunderstandings.

The Deviations of the People of Lot That Led to Their Destruction

The article recounts the story of the people of Prophet Lot, highlighting that their destruction was not solely due to homosexual acts but also a range of other social transgressions including robbery, treachery, and public indecency. It details their defiance of divine warnings and their eventual punishment, as described in Islamic scripture.

Prabowo Orders Renovation of Gambir Station

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the Ministry of Transportation and PT KAI to renovate Gambir Railway Station in Central Jakarta into a modern, integrated transport hub within two years. The President also ordered the acceleration of safety improvements at level crossings, with 172 already closed and over 1,600 others in the process of being secured. The initiative is part of a broader government effort to modernise public transport and expand the national railway network to 10,524 kilometres.

Yogyakarta Encircled by Two New Toll Roads, A Look at the Projects

Yogyakarta is set to be flanked by two major toll road projects, the Jogja-Solo and Jogja-Bawen toll roads, aimed at boosting regional connectivity. The Jogja-Solo toll road has several sections already operational, while the Jogja-Bawen project has reached over 72% land acquisition progress. These developments are expected to enhance logistics, tourism, and access to Yogyakarta International Airport.

After Drone Attack, Israel Threatens to Destroy Hezbollah Stronghold

Israeli right-wing ministers have called for the destruction of Dahiyeh, Hezbollah's stronghold in southern Beirut, following a suspected drone attack from Lebanon that caused no casualties. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to enforce the 'Dahiyeh Doctrine' rigorously. The escalating rhetoric comes amid new Israeli forced evacuation orders for over 20 towns in southern Lebanon.

Public Urged to Help Government Weather Economic Turmoil

An activist has called on Indonesians to safeguard national unity amid global economic and geopolitical challenges. Fithrat Irfan urged constructive criticism of the government and warned against divisive political narratives. He also acknowledged the administration's efforts to restore economic stability and appealed for patience with the national development process.

Deputy Chief of National Police Leads Environmental Action to Welcome the 80th Bhayangkara Day

Deputy Chief of the Indonesian National Police (Polri), Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo, led an environmental action in Megamendung, Bogor Regency, as part of social and health services to commemorate the 80th Bhayangkara Day. The activities included planting fruit trees and releasing birds, symbolising Polri's commitment to environmental sustainability and community closeness. The event also involved distributing 500 food packages, providing free health services, and offering compensation to orphans and the underprivileged.

Jembrana Regency Government Renovates 1.2 km of Ngurah Rai Road Pavements with IDR 14 Billion Budget

The Jembrana Regency administration has commenced a major infrastructure project to revamp pedestrian walkways along Jalan Ngurah Rai in the capital, Negara. Funded by IDR 14 billion from the regional budget, the four-month project aims to beautify the city centre. The new pavements will feature a dual-function u-ditch concrete structure designed to mitigate flooding while incorporating a pilot underground cable utility system.

Trump: US-Iran peace deal to be signed on Sunday

President Donald Trump announced that a peace agreement between the United States and Iran is scheduled to be signed on Sunday, adding that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened immediately afterwards. Pakistan's foreign minister confirmed the electronic signing ceremony, while Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson denied an MoU would be finalised, citing doubts from the other party. The potential framework is viewed by Tehran merely as a basis for continued talks, with nuclear negotiations expected to last another 60 days.

Prospective Managers of 'Red and White' Cooperatives Required to Undergo Military Training

Candidates selected for the management of Indonesia's 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives in 2026 must complete basic military training as part of their preparation. The Ministry of Defence has confirmed its readiness to conduct the training across 67 educational units nationwide, aiming to develop disciplined and high-quality human resources. Failure to register for the scheduled training on 14 June 2026 will result in candidates being deemed to have withdrawn from the programme.

OJK Warns of Scam Modes Involving Watching Chinese Dramas and Fake Copyright Purchases

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has cautioned the public about emerging fraudulent schemes, including scams disguised as paid tasks to watch Chinese dramas and the purchase of film copyrights for profit. The warning came as the agency reported receiving over 17,000 complaints related to illegal financial entities since the start of the year. The OJK and its PASTI Task Force have subsequently blocked 951 illegal online loan entities and various other illicit investment offers.

BYD Patents System to Detect Living Beings Under Vehicles

Chinese automaker BYD has filed a patent for a system that detects living beings beneath vehicles using computer vision technology. The system compares real-time images against a stored reference to identify changes, focusing computational resources on new or moving objects. This patent, alongside others for radar-based interior detection, indicates BYD is building a comprehensive in-vehicle intelligent monitoring ecosystem.

Rupiah Strengthening Supported by SRBI, Indef Highlights Credit Tightening Risks

The recent strengthening of the rupiah has been buoyed by high investor interest in Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI), but the Indef institute warns of consequences for the real sector. The high yields on SRBI are encouraging banks to park liquidity rather than lend to productive industries, potentially constricting credit expansion. This dynamic poses a significant cost for maintaining exchange rate stability amid rising risk premiums and weakening corporate credit demand.

Energy Ministry Warns of Risk Indonesia's NDC Targets Will Not Be Met, Here's Why

Indonesia's Energy Ministry has cautioned that the nation's emissions reduction targets risk becoming meaningless without accelerated action within the next five years. The government is prioritising renewable energy development, energy efficiency, and clean power plant construction to transform the energy sector. Strategies include utilising post-mining land for solar farms and increasing the renewable energy mix, which reached 18.3 per cent in early 2026.

Ali's Verdict When Asked by Abu Bakr Regarding Punishment for Homosexual Offenders

A historical account details the firm stance of Ali bin Abu Thalib, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, concerning the punishment for homosexual acts reported during the Caliphate of Abu Bakr. Ali asserted that such acts constituted a grave sin warranting severe punishment, drawing a parallel with the divine destruction of the Prophet Lot's people. This episode is cited as a key example of his uncompromising principles in safeguarding Islamic morality and law.

KPK Detects Alleged Obstruction of Justice in Customs Case, Indonesia Audit Watch Founder Questioned

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating suspected obstruction of justice linked to a bribery case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The agency questioned Iskandar Sitorus, founder of Indonesian Audit Watch, who allegedly acted as a consultant for PT Blueray, one of the firms implicated. The KPK is exploring whether parties attempted to interfere with the investigation, including the potential application of anti-obstruction charges.

Grand Ruwatan Ceremony for Soekarno Held in Kediri

A cultural procession and grand 'ruwatan' ceremony took place at Soekarno's childhood home in Kediri, East Java, to commemorate the changing of his birth name from Koesno to Soekarno. The event also served to honour the sacrifices of the nation's heroes in the struggle for Indonesian independence. Activities included a parade of agricultural produce and the inauguration of a statue depicting a young Soekarno.

Danantara: JCI Strengthening Proves Investors Trust Indonesia's Fundamentals

Danantara Indonesia asserts that the strengthening of the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) signals growing investor confidence in the national economy. The firm's COO, Dony Oskaria, emphasised that solid fundamentals across state-owned enterprises and the broader economy are driving this optimism, particularly in banking, mining, and infrastructure sectors. Bank BTN's CEO also highlighted the need to sustain real sector demand, particularly in housing, to support economic momentum.

BI-China Cooperation Deepens, Bank Mandiri Becomes Direct CIPS Participant

Bank Indonesia and the People's Bank of China have agreed to deepen bilateral financial cooperation, including exploring an enlarged currency swap arrangement and launching cross-border QR payments. Bank Mandiri has been designated a direct participant in China's Cross-border Interbank Payment System, aiming to enhance transaction efficiency. The agreements also cover a new local currency transaction framework with Hong Kong and the establishment of a renminbi clearing arrangement in Indonesia.

Padang Panjang City Government Welcomes Return of Seven Hajj Pilgrims from Cluster 9 at City Hall

The Padang Panjang city administration officially welcomed home seven Hajj pilgrims from Flight Cluster 9, who arrived safely and in good health. Deputy Mayor Allex Saputra received the returning pilgrims at City Hall, expressing gratitude for their safe return. He also encouraged the pilgrims to become exemplary community members and to help revitalise religious activities at local mosques.

House Appreciates BI's Move to Cooperate with China to Strengthen Rupiah

The House of Representatives has praised Bank Indonesia's collaboration with the People's Bank of China to bolster the rupiah. The agreement includes a bilateral currency swap and cross-border QRIS payment integration, reducing trade reliance on the US dollar. The initiative is viewed as a serious effort to stabilise the national currency through local currency transactions.

Video: Danantara's Arsenal Strengthened Through P2SK Law, How Potent Is It?

Indonesia's parliament has passed revisions to the Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law (P2SK), intended to enhance governance to support national economic growth. A lawmaker confirmed the changes would not alter Bank Indonesia's independence, despite adding mandates to consider the real sector and job creation. The new law also provides a legal framework for boosting the domestic capital market, developing crypto asset investment, and reinforcing the Danantara investment body.

News from the US, China, and BI Could Drive Markets This Week

Indonesia's financial markets are expected to be influenced by a combination of global and domestic events this week, including key economic data from China and the United States. The highlight will be Bank Indonesia's (BI) Board of Governors meeting, where the policy rate decision is keenly awaited amidst heightened global uncertainty from the Middle East conflict. Investors will also scrutinise US retail sales and China's industrial production and retail figures for clues on global demand and monetary policy direction.

How Fuel Subsidies Impact Public Transport Quality

An Indonesian transport expert argues that fuel subsidies predominantly benefit private vehicle owners, undermining public transport development. He urges the government to reallocate electric vehicle incentive funds and fuel subsidy budgets towards modernising regional public transport systems. The expert highlights that only a small fraction of local governments have improved their transport networks, which is crucial for Indonesia’s 2045 developed nation target.

Bitmine Immersion Technologies Announces Inaugural Dividend and NYSE Listing for Series A Preferred Shares

Bitmine Immersion Technologies has declared its first-ever cash dividend for its 9.50% Series A Perpetual Preferred Shares, with a cumulative initial payment due on 22 June 2026. The company also confirmed that these preferred shares have been approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker 'BMNP', with trading expected to commence on 16 June 2026. This move marks a significant step in Bitmine's capital strategy as it expands its operations as a US-based Bitcoin miner and Ethereum treasury company.

Pressure on Rupiah and IHSG Should Be Momentum to Strengthen Market Confidence

An economist argues that the recent depreciation of the rupiah and the sharp decline in the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IHSG) are critical signals for the government to bolster market confidence through consistent policy. The weakening, driven by both global factors and domestic institutional uncertainty, has eroded investor faith in the 8% economic growth target. Amidst this volatility, experts are calling for the optimisation of the Islamic economy as a buffer for national resilience.

Young generation dominates digital users in Indonesia, says Communications Minister

Meutya Hafid, Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, has highlighted that 60 per cent of the country's 230 million internet users are young people. She warned this demographic is particularly vulnerable to cyber crime due to a lack of digital literacy. The government is prioritising enhanced digital education to help young people navigate risks such as hoaxes, hate speech, and provocative narratives.

BAIC FOTON eView Connect Officially Launched in Thailand, Strengthening Green Logistics Ecosystem in Southeast Asia

BAIC FOTON, through its joint venture CP FOTON, has launched the eView Connect electric van in Bangkok, marking a significant push into Southeast Asia's commercial EV market. The vehicle features advanced liquid-cooled battery technology and is supported by new strategic partnerships with charging network operator Spark EV and technology firm Huawei. The launch aligns with Thailand's '30@30' electric vehicle policy target and forms part of BAIC FOTON's regional strategy to drive low-carbon logistics growth.

Pyongyang Provocation: Former South Korean Defence Minister Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison

A Seoul court has sentenced former South Korean Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun to 30 years in prison for his role in a drone infiltration plot against North Korea. The court found the operation was designed to provoke Pyongyang and create a pretext for declaring martial law in December 2024. Former President Yoon Suk Yeol received a matching sentence, with the court calling the actions a betrayal of public trust.

Cuba Revitalises Economy Through Reforms

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has announced a comprehensive reform package aimed at reviving the economy, reducing centralisation, and granting greater autonomy to various sectors. The reforms include easing restrictions for agricultural producers, scrapping state intermediaries for foreign trade, and attracting foreign investment, while reducing the number of ministries from 27 to 20. The move comes as the tourism industry, a vital economic pillar, reels from tightened US sanctions and a sharp decline in foreign visitors.

Manpower Ministry Opens Internship Programme to Japan, Check Requirements and Registration Details

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower has launched official recruitment for internship and elderly care training programmes aimed at sending workers to Japan. The initiative seeks to address Japan's growing demand for labour while improving the international competitiveness of Indonesian human resources. Applicants are warned to only use official government channels to avoid non-procedural overseas work offers.

Said Abdullah Conveys Megawati's Prayer During Pilgrimage at Bung Karno's Tomb

PDIP officials and regional heads gathered at Bung Karno's tomb in Blitar for a national pilgrimage marking the 56th anniversary of his death. Party Secretary-General Said Abdullah relayed Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri's prayer for an independent and prosperous Indonesian nation. He also announced the completion of a Rp 4.1 billion renovation of Bung Karno's childhood home in Istana Gebang, funded collectively by party officials.

Pertamina selects top 10 SMEs in 2025-2026 Pertapreneur Aggregator programme

State-owned energy giant Pertamina has named the top 10 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in its Pertapreneur Aggregator 2025-2026 programme, designed to cultivate business aggregators capable of opening market access and empowering fellow entrepreneurs. Novio Fresh was crowned the overall champion, with Rendang Gadih and Imago Raw Honey taking second and third places, following a rigorous selection involving bootcamps, mentoring and business acceleration. The initiative, which delivered an average social return on investment of 2.21, also provided production grants and facilitated international business matching in Malaysia and Belgium to prepare participants for global markets.

Bima Man Surrenders After Hacking Wife with Machete for Refusing to Give Him Money for Tramadol

A man in Bima Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, has surrendered to police after attacking his wife with a machete when she refused to give him money to buy the prescription drug tramadol. The 23-year-old suspect, identified as WYP, went on the run following the domestic violence incident but handed himself in accompanied by his family. He is currently being held at the Tambora Police Station and will be transferred for further legal proceedings.

Viral Garage Built on Pavement in Bandung's Jalan Ambon Demolished by Public Order Agency

A garage illegally constructed on a pavement along Jalan Ambon in Bandung has been forcibly demolished by the municipal Public Order Agency (Satpol PP). The structure, reportedly built by the local residents' association to house a government-provided motorised tricycle (Triseda), was found to violate pavement regulations and was blocking a drainage channel, posing a flood risk. Authorities acted on the direct instructions of the mayor and the agency head to clear the public walkway.

When a Giant Tsunami Rolled Over Southern Java, Pangandaran-Yogyakarta Hit

New paleotsunami research by BRIN indicates a massive tsunami struck the southern coast of Java approximately 400 years ago. Evidence from geological layers, marine microfossils, and archaeological sites in Pangandaran, Kulon Progo, and Bali points to a major inundation event. Researchers are also investigating whether the memory of this disaster is preserved in local traditional narratives, such as those concerning the Queen of the South Sea.

Defence Ministry Reveals Details of Prabowo’s Meeting with Japanese Defence Minister

President Prabowo Subianto and Japanese Defence Minister Shinjir Koizumi discussed deepening defence cooperation following a recent Defence Cooperation Arrangement. Key topics included personnel exchanges, maritime security, logistics, and potential collaboration in defence technology and industry. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability and will pursue further technical discussions at the ministerial level.

Government Pursues National Milk Self-Sufficiency from Upstream to Downstream

The Indonesian government is pursuing national milk self-sufficiency through integrated upstream-to-downstream development and cross-sector collaboration. Around 80 percent of the nation's milk demand is currently met through imports, presenting a food security risk the government is now prioritising. The push includes boosting domestic production, investing in tropical-adapted dairy cattle research, and strengthening the entire dairy industrial ecosystem.

How to Check Social Assistance for 2026: Application Guide and Latest Disbursement Schedule

The Indonesian government is strengthening the distribution of social assistance through digital integration. Citizens can use the official 'Cek Bansos' application managed by the Ministry of Social Affairs to verify their beneficiary status and monitor payment schedules. Potential recipients are advised to keep their data in the Integrated Social Welfare Data (DTKS) up to date to ensure aid delivery, with disbursement typically occurring in several phases throughout the year.

Sufmi Dasco Appreciates Bank Indonesia's Move to Strengthen Rupiah Exchange Rate

Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has praised Bank Indonesia for signing a bilateral currency swap and expanding local currency transactions with China and Hong Kong. The agreements aim to reduce reliance on the US dollar in trade and investment, covering USD 154.5 billion in bilateral trade value. The initiative also includes a cross-border QRIS payment system linking 191 providers in China with 24 in Indonesia to support easier transactions.