Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 June 2026

Showing 351-400 of 715 articles

List of 32 Names Allegedly Involved in MBG Corruption Goes Viral, Lawyer Sony Sonjaya Reveals Unexpected Facts

A list of 32 names allegedly linked to corruption in Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) has circulated widely on social media. Sony Sonjaya's lawyer, Elza Syarief, has denied the list originated from her client, the former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency who is now a suspect. Sonjaya has applied to become a justice collaborator and reportedly provided dozens of names to investigators, though the full extent of his disclosures remains unclear.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia Welcome Final Stage of US-Iran Negotiations

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have expressed optimism over the final stage of US-Iran negotiations, marked by the scheduled electronic signing of an agreement. The two foreign ministers discussed the ongoing talks and voiced hope for lasting peace and stability in the region. Saudi Arabia also commended Pakistan's consistent mediation efforts throughout the negotiation process.

Retracing History at Abdullah Ibn Abbas Mosque: Reflecting on the Prophet's Resilience When Expelled from Taif

As the 1447 Hijriah Hajj season concludes, thousands of pilgrims are visiting the historic Abdullah Ibn Abbas Mosque in Taif before returning home. The mosque, built in 592 Hijriah, marks the site where the Prophet Muhammad rested after being rejected and mistreated by the people of Taif during his mission to spread Islam. It remains a poignant destination for spiritual reflection on the Prophet's perseverance.

Central Java Police's Bhabinkamtibmas help trace 1,387 TB suspects in a week

Community police officers (Bhabinkamtibmas) from the Central Java Police traced 1,387 suspected tuberculosis cases between 3 and 10 June 2026. The initiative, part of the force's 'TOSS TB' programme, leverages daily community interactions to boost early detection and public awareness. It marks a significant integration of community policing with public health efforts in Indonesia.

Russia restricts foreign airline refuelling at several airports

Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency has imposed refuelling limits on foreign carriers at multiple domestic airports to prevent them from stockpiling cheap fuel. The move follows a surge in foreign airlines purchasing fuel volumes far exceeding their flight needs, disrupting local supply planning. The restrictions come amid global jet fuel price volatility and a Russian export ban on aviation turbine fuel until November.

Beijing's Temple of Heaven Museum inaugurated

The Temple of Heaven Museum in Beijing was officially opened, marking the completion of thematic museums for all eight of the city's UNESCO World Heritage sites. The new museum, centred on the Shenyueshu complex, systematically interprets the culture of heavenly worship and the significance of China's ritual traditions. It highlights the enduring legacy of Zhonghe Shaoyue ceremonial music, which influenced court music across the Asia-Pacific region.

Turning Fallen Leaves into Compost

A forest farmer group in Tabanan, Bali, has developed a social forestry-based business producing compost from fallen leaves. The initiative supports forest conservation while generating economic benefits for the local community. Production has reached 500 sacks per month, with distribution expanding beyond the village to surrounding areas.

Tuberculosis Cases in Sukabumi City Rise, Nearly 1,400 Sufferers Identified

The number of tuberculosis (TB) cases in Sukabumi City, West Java, has increased, with nearly 1,400 sufferers identified through data collection this year. The local health office noted that while case detection rates are high, the treatment success rate remains lower at around 76 percent. Officials are calling for greater coordination to ensure patients complete their treatment and prevent further transmission.

BGN Chief Speaks Out on Viral Hoax Claiming Prabowo Profits from Free Nutritious Meals

The Head of Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has categorically denied a viral social media narrative alleging President Prabowo Subianto receives personal profit from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Nanik S Deyang labelled the claim as disinformation designed to mislead the public and provoke unrest. She urged citizens to verify information through official channels and confirmed the agency remains focused on its mandate to improve public nutrition.

Rice Stocks at 5.3 Million Tonnes, Bapanas Chief Insists: No Scarcity, Do Not Manipulate Prices

The Head of Indonesia's National Food Agency has confirmed that national rice stocks have reached a record high of 5.3 million tonnes, the largest volume since independence. He warned against market manipulation and stated that a police task force has been deployed to monitor distribution and ensure price stability. The government cited increased domestic production, which has drawn international attention, as a key factor in the abundant supply.

Central Jakarta Police Take Issue with BEM UI, Demo Without Prior Official Notification

The Central Jakarta Metro Police have objected to a protest by the University of Indonesia Student Executive Board and other campus groups at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, citing a lack of official prior notification. Police stated that while an initial PDF notification was received via WhatsApp, subsequent communication attempts went unanswered. They emphasised that the law requires the person in charge of a public demonstration to deliver formal notification directly to the police at least 24 hours before the event.

Indonesia to restore 700,000 hectares of damaged mangroves

Indonesia has identified approximately 700,000 hectares of damaged mangrove forest out of a national total of 3.4 million hectares, committing to a large-scale restoration programme. A government minister stressed the critical role of mangroves in climate change mitigation, citing their capacity to absorb up to four times more carbon dioxide than ordinary plants. The initiative is also framed as an economic driver for coastal communities, with the government urging developers to offset any mangrove loss with compounded replanting efforts.

Holiday Season: KCIC Offers Whoosh Tickets from Rp250,000 and 20% Group Discount

KCIC is introducing dynamic pricing during the Islamic New Year and school holiday period, with premium economy tickets on the Whoosh high-speed rail starting at Rp250,000. A group discount programme of up to 20 percent is also available for bookings of 20 or more passengers. The initiative aims to provide more flexible and economical travel options during the peak holiday season.

Cuba launches sweeping reforms to revive economy

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel has announced a comprehensive reform package aimed at revitalising the nation's struggling economy. The measures include reducing the number of ministries, granting greater autonomy to agricultural producers, and opening the tourism sector to new business models. The government also plans to phase out universal subsidies in favour of targeted social assistance for the most vulnerable groups.

Indonesia Center New York Platform to Bridge Local Businesses into the US Market

The Indonesian Consulate General in New York, along with vOffice InvestinAsia Group and GEKRAFS, has signed a Letter of Intent to develop the Indonesia Center New York. The platform aims to promote Indonesian trade, investment, and creative economy in the United States. It is designed to connect Indonesian businesses with global investors and facilitate their expansion into the international market.

Beijing highlights growing Indonesia-China student exchanges

Bilateral student exchanges between Indonesia and China have reached new heights, with over 17,000 Indonesian students now studying in China. A senior Chinese scholarship official noted the trend reflects deepening people-to-people ties spanning generations. The China Scholarship Council has funded hundreds of thousands of academic exchanges globally, and Beijing is encouraging more Indonesian students to study in China as part of broader educational cooperation.

Lumajang Government Urges Public to Use Subsidised Fuel According to Designation

The Lumajang Regency Government is calling on residents to utilise subsidised fuel strictly in accordance with its intended purpose and prevailing regulations. This appeal follows joint monitoring of fuel distribution and aims to ensure the benefits reach the intended eligible groups. The initiative supports energy policy effectiveness and equitable distribution in the region.

Andri Mulyono Had No Dealer Yet Secured Rp1 Trillion MBG Electric Motorcycle Project

The Attorney General's Office has detailed a corrupt procurement scheme for electric motorcycles intended for the free nutritious meal programme, implicating a fifth suspect. The suspect's company lacked the required dealership and infrastructure, relying instead on manipulated documents and price mark-ups. The total budget for the project was approximately Rp1.1 trillion, with payments released based on falsified handover records.

Jakartans Object to Proposed Transjabodetabek Fare Hike, Citing Cost of Living Impact

Residents of Greater Jakarta have voiced opposition to a proposed increase in Transjabodetabek bus fares, arguing it would disrupt their daily household budgets. While some commuters reject any increase outright, others express conditional acceptance if the new tariff remains affordable, suggesting a cap of Rp 5,000. The Jakarta provincial government's plan is facing public scrutiny over its potential to strain living costs for workers and students who rely on the cross-city service.

Ministry supports students' role in dealing with waste management

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is promoting student involvement in holistic waste management through a national literacy and community empowerment programme. The initiative aims to cultivate talent capable of integrating technology, economics, and social transformation to create sustainable solutions, with universities acting as key innovation hubs. Students are expected to engage directly with communities to map local problems and drive better waste practices from the household level upwards.

Children Under Two Should Have Zero Screen Time, Paediatric Association Urges

The Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI) has called for a strict zero screen time policy for children under the age of two to avert serious developmental disorders. The association warns that using gadgets as electronic babysitters is contributing to rising cases of virtual autism, speech delay, and lifestyle diseases in young children. Parents are being urged to encourage active interaction with their environment instead.

MPR unveils improvements to scoring system for Four Pillars quiz competition

Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has introduced a series of reforms to its Four Pillars quiz competition (LCC) for 2026, aimed at enhancing transparency and objectivity. Key changes include a video review system for dispute resolution, mandatory monitor headphones for judges, and the involvement of more regional adjudicators. A new award category for the best patriotic chant has also been added to encourage creativity blending local, national, and international elements.

Deputy Minister for Food urges tropical dairy cattle research to bolster national milk production

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has called for intensified research into tropical dairy cattle breeds to reduce Indonesia's heavy reliance on milk imports. He noted that domestic production meets only about 1 million tonnes of the 4-million-tonne annual demand, with most current stocks originating from sub-tropical breeds ill-suited to the local climate. The government is seeking collaboration with research bodies, universities, and the private sector to accelerate breed development and supply chain improvements.

BMKG Warns of Potential Coastal Flooding Across Several NTT Coastal Areas

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for potential coastal flooding, or 'rob', in several coastal areas of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) from 13 to 15 June 2026. The phenomenon is attributed to a Super New Moon on 15 June, which is expected to elevate maximum sea levels, with effects exacerbated by wind and wave conditions. Residents in affected areas, including the coasts of Flores-Alor, Sabu-Raijua, Sumba, and Timor-Rote, are urged to remain vigilant.

IDAI Warns of Dangers of Incorrectly Handling Electrocuted Children, Outlines Key Steps

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) has urged the public to apply Basic Life Support principles when providing first aid to children suffering from electric shock. The organisation noted that untrained individuals often resort to ineffective traditional methods like applying oil, rather than focusing on vital life-saving actions. The advice was part of the IDAI's 72nd anniversary activities, which included public training on emergency response.

Firm Natural Resource Governance Reform Remains Business-Friendly

Indonesia is advancing reforms in natural resource governance aimed at boosting state revenue, ensuring environmental protection, and maintaining a healthy investment climate. The government is promoting downstream processing, simplifying licensing through digitalisation, and enforcing stricter oversight, while balancing regulatory firmness with business-friendly policies to attract long-term investment.

PDIP Politician Urges Authorities to Investigate Tracking Device Terror Against Tiyo Ardianto

PDI Perjuangan politician M. Guntur Romli has condemned the installation of a tracking device on the vehicle of former UGM student leader Tiyo Ardianto following a protest, calling it a form of illegal surveillance and psychological terror. He argues the act violates constitutional rights, data protection laws, and democratic principles, linking it to a series of previously unsolved intimidations against civil society. The politician is urging law enforcement to thoroughly investigate the incident and other unresolved cases of terror against critics.

Former UGM Student Body Chairman Finds Tracking Device on Vehicle Following Gejayan Protest

A former chairman of the Gadjah Mada University (UGM) student executive body discovered a tracking device attached to his vehicle shortly after participating in a demonstration in Yogyakarta. The device was identified via a mobile phone notification as a 'PBX Finder'. The discovery follows a series of alleged threats against the activist, intensifying concerns over surveillance of government critics.

House Commission XIII Pushes for Replication of Literacy Programme at Surabaya Detention Centre

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission XIII has endorsed a literacy programme at the Surabaya Class I State Detention Centre as a national benchmark for inmate rehabilitation, transforming disciplinary sanctions into educational opportunities. The programme replaces solitary confinement with mandatory reading, essay writing, and presentations, aiming to foster self-awareness and character development. Officials are urging the Directorate General of Corrections to standardise and replicate this model across all correctional facilities in Indonesia to address overcrowding and personnel shortages with a more humanistic approach.

National Food Agency Head Confirms Rice Stocks Ample, Dismisses Scarcity Claims

Indonesia's National Food Agency has assured the public that government rice reserves are at a record high, reaching 5.3 million tonnes, eliminating any justification for market scarcity. Authorities have warned traders against price manipulation and are deploying a police task force to monitor supplies nationwide. The government is also encouraging the state logistics agency Bulog to expand its commercial premium rice distribution to fill gaps in modern retail outlets.

Ministry of Transport tightens maritime safety oversight during school holidays

The Ministry of Transport has intensified maritime safety inspections during the 2026 school holiday period, conducting spot checks on passenger vessels at Merak Port in Banten. Inspectors found minor infractions on several roll-on/roll-off ferries, with operators ordered to rectify the issues promptly. The measure aims to guarantee the seaworthiness and safety of ships amid an anticipated surge in passenger movement.

Danantara Claims Investor Confidence Is Recovering

Danantara Indonesia asserts that market confidence is beginning to recover, pointing to recent gains in the stock market and the rupiah. The state-owned enterprise also highlighted corporate actions, such as share buybacks, aimed at strengthening company fundamentals. Bank Indonesia noted positive capital inflows following its latest policy measures, though analysts cautioned that cautious market sentiment persists.

House Deputy Speaker Dasco Applauds BI's New Move to Strengthen Rupiah

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has praised Bank Indonesia's new bilateral currency swap and local currency transaction agreement with China's central bank. The deal, signed in Shanghai, aims to reduce reliance on the US dollar for trade and investment between Indonesia, mainland China, and Hong Kong. It also includes the expansion of cross-border QRIS payments and the establishment of a renminbi clearing arrangement in Indonesia.

Unej researcher: Puyuh Gonggong Biasa a potential endemic fauna for the Pandalungan region

A researcher from the University of Jember has proposed that the vulnerable Puyuh Gonggong Biasa bird, found only in the highlands of East Java's Pandalungan region, be recognised as a distinctive local fauna. The bird, known for its dog-like barking call, faces threats from land conversion and poaching, yet currently lacks official protected status. The researcher is urging the government to grant it legal protection and is calling for greater public awareness and further study to ensure its conservation.

Children under two should have zero screen time, says Indonesian Paediatric Society

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) has urged parents to enforce zero screen time for children under two years old to prevent developmental disorders. The organisation warns that early gadget exposure is linked to speech delays, 'virtual autism', and rising lifestyle diseases like obesity and diabetes in children. Parents are advised to limit device use and encourage physical activity and social interaction instead.

Acting MPR Secretary General Unveils Innovations for Four Pillars Quiz Competition

The Acting Secretary General of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI), Siti Fauziah, has announced several innovations for the 2026 Four Pillars Quiz Competition (LCC) aimed at enhancing transparency and quality. Key changes include a new monitoring system for score reviews, mandatory headphones for judges, and the introduction of Best Yell Appreciation awards. The updates follow a comprehensive evaluation of the competition's technical aspects to ensure an objective and accountable event.

Not Just Nickel: North Maluku Provincial Government Boosts Coconut Downstreaming

North Maluku's Governor, Sherly Tjoanda Laos, has reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to advancing the regional economy by leveraging natural resources whilst driving downstream processing. Beyond its established nickel sector, the province is actively developing new economic growth areas, including the downstreaming of coconuts. The administration is also focusing on agricultural expansion, such as opening 10,000 hectares of new rice fields, alongside enforcing sustainable mining practices.

Climate 'Doomsday' Signs Become Clearer as Scientists Reveal Indicators in the North Atlantic

A mysterious cooling patch in the North Atlantic, south of Greenland, has been identified as a sign of a weakening Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). New research suggests the cold blob is caused by a reduction in ocean heat transport, rather than surface weather patterns, indicating a potential climate tipping point. Scientists warn the collapse of this current system would have catastrophic global consequences, including accelerated sea level rise and extreme weather shifts.

Calls for a Free Palestine Echo in Front of the US Embassy in Jakarta

Civil society activists gathered outside the US Embassy in Jakarta to protest against alleged genocide by Israel in Palestine. The demonstrators demanded the arrest of genocide perpetrators and urged international authorities to free members of the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian convoy currently held in eastern Libya. The protest also called for global solidarity with Palestinian independence rights.

Ahmad Ali Addresses Timing of PSI Jacket Presentation to Jokowi

Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) executive Ahmad Ali stated that former President Joko Widodo is already considered a member, despite the ceremonial jacket presentation having yet to occur. He downplayed the formal investiture as merely a symbolic gesture, citing Jokowi's previous public pledges to campaign for the party at the district level.

World Bank Forecasts Indonesia's Economic Growth at 5 Percent This Year

The World Bank projects Indonesia's economic growth will slow to 5 percent in 2026, down from 5.11 percent last year, due to external pressures and the fiscal burden of energy subsidies. This forecast falls short of the government's target of 5.4 to 5.6 percent, with the bank warning that dependence on household consumption as a short-term buffer carries risks amid limited fiscal space. Growth is expected to recover to 5.2 percent in the 2027–2028 period, contingent on structural reforms and easing external headwinds.

Four Indonesian military officers graduate from US, ready to face global challenges: Ambassador

Four middle-ranking Indonesian military officers have graduated from the National Defense University in the United States, bolstering the nation's military capacity. Indonesia's Ambassador to the US, Indroyono Soesilo, stated the officers return with strategic perspectives and international networks essential for facing complex global security challenges. The achievement highlights the strong defence cooperation between Indonesia and the United States.

MTI Questions Fuel Subsidies, Says It's Time to Redirect Them to Public Transport

Transport observer Djoko Setijowarno has called for Indonesia's fuel subsidy budget to be reallocated towards accelerating public transport development in the regions. He highlighted that 93% of subsidised fuel is consumed by wealthy private vehicle owners, while public passenger transport receives just 3%. With only 9% of regional governments having modernised their public transport systems, he argues that redirecting funds would be more impactful than subsidising electric motorcycle purchases.

Police Reveal Elderly Man Injured in Attempted Kidnapping in PIK

A 70-year-old man suffered minor injuries after resisting an attempted kidnapping in Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta. Police have identified two suspects and are investigating the motive behind the attack, which was captured on CCTV. The victim, a private sector employee, fought off the assailants, causing them to flee the scene.

Caring for Ampera Bridge as a Tourist-Friendly Destination

The Palembang city government has initiated a series of measures to enhance safety and comfort at the iconic Ampera Bridge, transforming it into a more welcoming tourist attraction. Efforts include installing additional CCTV cameras and deploying public order officers to curb vandalism and manage illegal parking. The authorities are adopting a humanist approach, guiding rather than prohibiting street vendors and content creators to maintain order while preserving the bridge's allure.

Bamsoet Praises PERIKHSA Riders' First Tour, Urges Unity

Bambang Soesatyo, chairman of the Indonesian Self-Defence Firearms Permit Holders Association (PERIKHSA), has commended the group's inaugural touring event from Malang to Bali. He highlighted the community's role in promoting discipline and road safety. The former Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly also emphasised the tour's economic benefits for local tourism and small businesses.

IDAI supports hepatitis screening but urges follow-up treatment

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) has endorsed the government's hepatitis screening programme but insists that early detection must be matched with clear medical treatment and monitoring to avoid being a mere publicity exercise. Chairman Piprim Basarah Yanuarso stressed that vaccination and screening should work in tandem to reduce the disease's impact on children. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin aims to expand screening coverage to 136 million people by 2026 as part of efforts to eliminate hepatitis B and C.

A Stroke of Luck: Buying Land in Bogor Made This Jakartan Rich for Three Generations

A land purchase in the 18th century turned into an extraordinary windfall for a Batavia resident after he discovered valuable swiftlet nests on his property. The discovery transformed Jonathan Michiels into one of the wealthiest men in the colony, securing his family’s prosperity for three generations through shrewd land investments and gold mining.

Price Hike: Expert Predicts 10 Percent of Pertamax Users Will Switch to Pertalite

An energy expert from Padjadjaran University estimates that one in ten Pertamax consumers will migrate to the cheaper Pertalite fuel following the recent non-subsidised price increase. The price gap between the two fuels has widened to Rp 6,250 per litre, the largest in history. The analysis suggests the price hike will disproportionately affect wealthier households, who are barred from using subsidised fuel for commercial vehicles.

Deputy Minister: Bamboo planting offers potential to create green jobs

Deputy Minister of Environment Diaz Hendropriyono stated that bamboo planting can generate green jobs and additional income for communities through carbon trading. The initiative aims to provide dual revenue streams from bamboo products and verified carbon credits. The government is promoting the carbon economy as an instrument to boost public participation in environmental conservation.