Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 June 2026

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VP Gibran: AI Must Be a Tool for Creativity, Not Plagiarism

Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has urged the education sector to use artificial intelligence as a catalyst for creativity and learning, rather than a means for plagiarism or spreading hoaxes. He called on students and teachers to master AI technology to support the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision, while maintaining critical thinking and ethics. The government has completed a UNESCO readiness assessment to measure the nation's preparedness for AI governance.

Four Turitempel Village Officials in Demak Face Sanctions for Drinking Party at Office

Four officials in Turitempel Village, Demak, Central Java, have been issued a second written warning after being caught drinking alcohol and singing karaoke at the village office during working hours. The village head stated that one of the officials will face additional suspension, and any further violations will result in dismissal.

Alcohol Disappears in Manokwari Ahead of National Pesparawi

Manokwari has imposed a temporary ban on alcohol sales and restricted entertainment venue hours ahead of the XIV National Pesparawi (Church Choir Festival) in June 2026. The policy, enacted through a regent's instruction, aims to ensure public order as thousands of participants and guests arrive from across Indonesia. Authorities have warned of sanctions for violators, including civil servants and business operators.

Kadin Chairman urges strengthening of green and digital economy in Riau Islands

The Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), Anindya Novyan Bakrie, has called on the newly inaugurated Kadin Riau Islands board to seize opportunities in the green and digital economy. He highlighted the region's strategic border location and strong economic growth, which exceeded the national average in 2025. Bakrie also stressed the importance of marketing the Batam, Bintan, and Karimun free trade zones to attract further investment.

M6.7 Earthquake Hits Palu, Sigi Regency Holds Emergency Meeting to Accelerate Aid

Following a magnitude 6.7 tectonic earthquake that struck the Palu area, the Sigi Regency government in Central Sulawesi convened an emergency meeting to coordinate rapid disaster response. Bupati Moh Rizal Intjenae prioritised the distribution of food, clean water, and emergency tents, while ordering a 24-hour deadline for damage assessments. Health services, including trauma healing, have been mobilised, and authorities confirmed the shallow quake did not trigger a tsunami.

Sulteng aftershocks continue, dozens of Undata Hospital patients evacuated

Dozens of patients at Undata Regional General Hospital in Palu were temporarily moved outdoors following repeated aftershocks after a magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Central Sulawesi. Hospital management took the precautionary measure to ensure safety, particularly for patients on upper floors, after initial building inspections found only minor damage. Medical services continue under close supervision, with all evacuated patients reported safe.

Crowds Throng to Await the Keraton Jogja's Mubeng Beteng Procession

Thousands gathered at the Yogyakarta Palace on Tuesday night to witness the traditional Mubeng Beteng ritual. The procession, led by palace retainers and joined by the Sultan's son-in-law, involves a silent five-kilometre circumambulation of the palace fort walls. The event underscores the enduring cultural significance of Javanese royal traditions in contemporary Indonesian society.

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar Enters Race for PBNU Chairmanship

Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar has been named as a potential candidate for the chairmanship of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) ahead of its upcoming congress. PBNU Secretary Saifullah Yusuf noted that Umar, a former Katib Aam, fits the historical pattern of previous chairmen. The final decision, however, rests with the congress participants through the organisation's established mechanisms.

Central Sulawesi Governor Anwar Hafid Confirms He Was in Jakarta on Official Duties During Earthquake

Central Sulawesi Governor Anwar Hafid has confirmed he was in Jakarta on official government business when a magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck the province. He stated that emergency coordination continued under his instruction and he would return immediately to lead on-site inspections. The governor's physical absence during the tremor sparked public discussion on social media.

Thousands of Brebes Residents Join Torch Parade to Mark Islamic New Year 1 Muharram 1448 H

Thousands of residents in Brebes, Central Java, took part in a grand torch parade to celebrate the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah. The event, organised by the local government, aimed to strengthen community bonds and promote social solidarity under the theme of 'Spirit of Hijrah'. Local officials emphasised the occasion as a moment for self-reflection and collective commitment to regional development.

Elderly Man in Karawang Arrested for Raping His 14-Year-Old Daughter

Police in Karawang, West Java, have arrested a 62-year-old man for allegedly raping his 14-year-old biological daughter. The crime came to light after the victim's mother reported the incident to the authorities. The suspect faces up to 20 years in prison under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

BPS Launches 2026 Economic Census, Deploys Thousands of Enumerators

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has commenced the 2026 Economic Census, mobilising 251,000 enumerators nationwide to collect data on all economic activities. The census, running from 15 June to 31 August 2026, will cover entities ranging from household businesses and MSMEs to large corporations. In Aceh province alone, 5,328 officers have been deployed to survey traditional markets, food stalls, and production sites.

BNPB: One Person Killed in Central Sulawesi Earthquake

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Central Sulawesi, resulting in one fatality in Sigi Regency and affecting over 300 residents. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported significant structural damage, including dozens of homes, places of worship, and public infrastructure. Emergency data collection continues as several other regencies also report injuries and property damage.

PPP Cadres Pursue Legal Action Over Alleged Document Forgery

Five cadres of the United Development Party (PPP) have filed a police report against three individuals for allegedly forging signatures on documents related to the party's upcoming congress. The complainants, representing various regional branches, claim their signatures were falsified on attendance lists and other files used in ongoing court proceedings. The case raises concerns about the integrity of the party's internal processes ahead of the September 2025 muktamar.

InJourney Affirms Security and Safety as Top Priority at Airports

State-owned airport operator InJourney Airports has reiterated that security and safety remain its foremost public service priorities following a dispute at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Aviation security personnel swiftly intervened to de-escalate the altercation in Terminal 3, ensuring no disruption to operations. The two individuals involved were taken to the terminal police post for mediation and further investigation.

Innovation and Energy Efficiency Become Imperatives in the Air Conditioning Industry

The air conditioning industry is shifting focus from basic cooling to energy efficiency, smart features, and ease of maintenance. Experts and industry players highlight that modern consumers demand tailored solutions and consider total cost of ownership over initial price.

Extreme Poverty in Lamongan Falls to 0.26 Percent

Lamongan Regency in East Java has seen its extreme poverty rate drop from 0.61 percent in 2024 to 0.26 percent in 2025, driven by economic growth that reached 5.40 percent. The regent highlighted the need for accurate data from the 2026 Economic Census to support targeted development policies. The census will involve 1,258 field officers to map business activity and investment opportunities across the region.

IKA BEM Nusantara Meets National Figures to Discuss Future Leadership

The central board of the BEM Nusantara alumni association has initiated a series of meetings with prominent national figures, including former President Joko Widodo, to discuss youth leadership and national consolidation. The discussions aim to absorb perspectives on preparing the younger generation to lead Indonesia. The meetings are part of the organisation's efforts to position itself as a key platform for nurturing future leaders ahead of its leadership transition in June 2026.

Man Posing as Intel Officer Robs Resident of Phone and Motorcycle in Semarang

A man falsely claiming to be a narcotics intelligence officer robbed a resident in Semarang, Central Java, of his mobile phone and motorcycle. Police have confirmed the perpetrator is not a law enforcement official and are investigating the incident, which occurred at a boarding house in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Indonesia and US Strengthen Cultural Ties, Boost Museum Institutional Capacity

Indonesia and the United States are deepening cultural cooperation through a partnership between Indonesian museums and the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Asian Art. The collaboration, formalised by a 2023 MoU, focuses on heritage preservation, institutional capacity building, and expanding public access to knowledge. A museum capacity building workshop will be held in Jakarta in June 2026 as a concrete step in this cultural diplomacy effort.

3kg LPG Scarce in Aceh, Housewives Scour Villages in Search

A severe shortage of subsidised 3kg LPG cylinders has persisted for two weeks across parts of Aceh, particularly in Pidie and Aceh Singkil, forcing households to search from village to village. The scarcity has driven unofficial retail prices far above the government's ceiling price, threatening micro-enterprises and prompting calls for a crackdown on distribution channels.

Central Sulawesi Police Intensify Patrols After Earthquake to Ensure Public Order

The Central Sulawesi Regional Police have stepped up patrols and monitoring in areas affected by the magnitude 6.7 earthquake to maintain security and public order. Officers are managing traffic congestion at petrol stations and inspecting damaged buildings, including a cafe in Palu. The police have urged residents to remain calm, avoid unverified information on social media, and follow official guidance amid the risk of aftershocks.

Beyond buildings, equipment: Upgrading Indonesia's regional healthcare

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the upgraded KH Muhammad Thohir Regional General Hospital in West Pesisir, marking progress in a nationwide programme to enhance 66 remote hospitals. While physical construction and equipment procurement are advancing, a critical shortage of 217 basic medical specialists threatens the programme's effectiveness. The government faces urgent challenges in recruiting permanent civil servant doctors and ensuring sustainable operational funding for these newly expanded facilities.

Lamongan Holds Lantern Parade to Mark Islamic New Year 1 Muharram

The Lamongan Regency government commemorated the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah with prayers and a lantern parade, emphasising spiritual reflection and community unity. Bupati Yuhronur Efendi highlighted the occasion as a moment for introspection and strengthening commitment to regional development. The event featured Islamic cultural performances and a call to translate the Muharram spirit into tangible contributions to society.

Major Drug Lord Arrested in Deli Serdang, Thousands of Ecstasy Pills Seized

Police in Medan have arrested a high-level drug trafficker, DH, a repeat offender who had evaded capture by frequently moving between rented houses in densely populated areas. The raid in Deli Serdang uncovered over 10,000 ecstasy pills, hundreds of narcotic vapes, and substantial cash, with the drugs believed to have been smuggled from Malaysia. Authorities are also investigating the suspect for money laundering after seizing several luxury vehicles and motorcycles suspected to be proceeds from his illicit operations.

National Industry Takes Role in Strengthening Migrant Worker Competencies

PT Krakatau Steel, the Indonesian Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection, and local stakeholders have launched the Banten Migrant Center to enhance the skills of Indonesian workers for the global market. The initiative aims to provide international-standard training and ensure legal, safe, and quality job placements, particularly for residents of Banten Province. Officials stated the collaboration aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's vision for superior human resource development and serves as a national pilot project for integrating government, industry, and education in migrant worker preparation.

Ciamis Resident Shocked by Rp2.6 Million Fine When Child Needed Surgery

A resident of Ciamis, West Java, was surprised by a Rp2.6 million service fine when seeking inpatient care for his child, despite having settled his outstanding BPJS Kesehatan premiums. The case highlights a lesser-known regulation that imposes a penalty on formerly inactive independent participants who require advanced inpatient treatment within 45 days of reactivating their membership. The fine is calculated as 5% of the initial diagnosis cost multiplied by the number of months in arrears, capped at 12 months.

Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake in Central Sulawesi: One Fatality Reported in Sigi

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Central Sulawesi, resulting in one confirmed death in Sigi Regency and 312 people displaced. The shallow quake caused significant damage to at least 67 homes, with Sigi being the worst-affected area. Authorities have recorded 55 aftershocks and are urging residents to avoid unstable structures.

Germany and Indonesia deepen trade and clean energy partnership

Germany and Indonesia are strengthening their economic and energy cooperation through new financial agreements worth hundreds of millions of euros. The deals, signed with German development bank KfW, aim to boost trade and investment competitiveness while accelerating Indonesia's renewable energy transition. The partnership includes major infrastructure projects like the Green Energy Corridors Sulawesi and a green bond facility, reinforcing both nations' commitment to the Just Energy Transition Partnership.

Cabinet Secretary and Indian Envoy Discuss PM Modi's Midyear Visit

Indonesia's Cabinet Secretariat met with the Indian Ambassador to discuss plans for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Indonesia in mid-2025, reciprocating President Prabowo Subianto's earlier trip to India. The visit is expected to strengthen the 76-year diplomatic relationship and open new avenues for collaboration. Recent high-level engagements have already deepened ties across defence, digital affairs, trade, and investment.

South Sulawesi Governor Welcomes Returning Hajj Pilgrims with Cash Gifts

South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman personally welcomed 392 returning Hajj pilgrims from Group 21 at Makassar's debarkation point, distributing cash prizes to those who correctly answered his questions. The governor urged the pilgrims to continue enlivening mosques and setting good examples within their communities. The arrival of this group brings the total number of pilgrims who have returned through Makassar to 8,231.

Welcoming the Islamic New Year, Brebes Religious Affairs Office Holds 'Moderation Gymnastics' and Vintage Train Tour

The Brebes Regency Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in Central Java marked the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah with a unique interfaith event featuring 'moderation gymnastics' and a tour on a Dutch colonial-era train. The initiative, led by the Jatibarang District Religious Affairs Office, aimed to promote religious harmony and national unity. The event concluded with a symbolic dove release by local officials.

Bandung Grand Mosque: History, Social Role, and Efforts to Empower the Congregation

The Grand Mosque of Bandung is set to expand its role beyond worship, aiming to become a centre for economic and social empowerment. During a visit, Indonesian Mosque Council Chairman Jusuf Kalla stressed that mosques must actively improve the welfare of their congregations. Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan pledged full government support for strategic programmes to realise this vision at the historic mosque.

Gus Ipul Says Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar Enters PBNU Chairmanship Race

PBNU Secretary General Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) has indicated that Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar is a suitable candidate for the NU chairmanship ahead of its 35th Congress. He noted that Nasaruddin's previous role as Katib Aam follows a historical pattern among past NU leaders. Gus Ipul also confirmed he will not stand or accept nomination for the position.

PSI's Isyana Bagoes Oka Affirms Commitment to Orphans and the Poor Is Not Mere Routine

Isyana Bagoes Oka, Vice Chair of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) and Deputy Minister for Population and Family Development, stated that the party's charitable programme for orphans and the underprivileged is a genuine commitment rather than a routine activity. The event, held to mark the Islamic New Year 1 Muharram 1448 Hijriah, provided assistance to 100 children from orphanages and underprivileged communities in Depok and Bekasi. The initiative reflects PSI's effort to share blessings and happiness with vulnerable groups during the religious occasion.

Gus Ipul says Nasaruddin Umar enters PBNU chairman race

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has indicated that Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar is a viable candidate for the chairmanship of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) ahead of its congress. Gus Ipul noted that Umar previously served as Katib Aam, a position held by the last three PBNU chairmen before their election. He also confirmed he will not stand for the leadership role himself.

Police Arrest Tangerang Murder Suspect in Under 24 Hours

Police in Tangerang swiftly apprehended a 27-year-old man suspected of fatally stabbing a young man in Cibodas. The suspect was tracked down and arrested near the Bogor Palace less than a day after the incident. Authorities have pledged to thoroughly investigate the motive and ensure public safety.

Sidoarjo Regent Instructs Civil Servants and Neighbourhood Heads to Join 'Red and White' Cooperatives

The Regent of Sidoarjo has issued a formal directive requiring all government officials, village apparatus, and even RT/RW neighbourhood heads to become members of the Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP). The policy aims to strengthen grassroots economic pillars and is supported by tactical collaborations with the state logistics agency Bulog and local sugar factories to run subsidised markets. The regent has also pledged to enrol himself and his family as a form of leadership by example.

Purbaya: Easing of US-Iran Conflict Opens Additional Fiscal Space in State Budget

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the de-escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran could reduce energy subsidy needs, creating fiscal room for other government priority programmes. He also confirmed an upcoming trip to China to meet investors regarding a planned panda bond issuance. The House of Representatives' Commission XI approved the ministry's indicative budget ceiling of Rp 49.8 trillion for 2027.

RAGA Team Uncovers Hiolo Theft from Temple in Riau, Four Suspects Charged

Police in Rokan Hilir, Riau, have arrested four men for the theft of valuable brass hiolo (incense holders) from the Hai Cu King Temple. The suspects, including a scrap dealer who acted as a fence, were identified through CCTV footage and scientific crime investigation. The stolen items, worth approximately Rp 200 million, were recovered, and the alleged mastermind is a former employee of a local fish boss.

Indonesian Govt Discusses IEU-CEPA to JEIC with German Business Delegation

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto met a German business delegation in Jakarta to advance trade and investment ties, focusing on finalising the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) this year. The pact aims to eliminate tariffs on over 98% of traded goods, while both sides explored collaboration in renewable energy, healthcare, and green industries through the Joint Economic and Investment Committee.

Youth Enthusiasm for Mubeng Beteng at Jogja Palace: A Touch of Healing

The Mubeng Beteng tradition at the Yogyakarta Palace on the eve of the Javanese New Year is drawing large crowds, particularly from the younger generation. Many participants view the silent walk as a form of meditation and self-reflection, offering a brief respite from modern pressures. The event, initiated by the palace servants' association, aims to unite the community in collective reflection for a better year ahead.

BNPB Records 2,245 Residents in West and Central Java Affected by Drought

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has reported that 2,245 residents across West and Central Java are facing water shortages due to prolonged dry weather. The drought, affecting areas in Bekasi and Klaten, has prompted local disaster agencies to distribute clean water. The BNPB also noted concurrent hydrometeorological events including floods in Central Kalimantan and a bushfire in West Manggarai.

Star Gaia20ehk Reveals Traces of Giant Planetary Collision

Astronomers have detected rare evidence of a massive collision between two young planets in a star system 11,000 light-years away. The star Gaia20ehk exhibited unusual dimming and erratic brightness patterns caused by a newly formed cloud of warm debris. Researchers believe the event mirrors the giant impact that formed Earth's Moon 4.5 billion years ago.

Becoming a Favourite, 188.7 Tonnes of Cloves Penetrate the National Market

Natuna Regency has successfully shipped 188.7 tonnes of premium cloves to Semarang, Central Java, after passing rigorous plant quarantine checks. The shipment underscores the agricultural sector's growing role in the border region's economy, complementing its traditional reliance on fisheries.

Islamic New Year Holiday: KAI North Sumatra Serves 14,967 Passengers

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's North Sumatra division recorded 14,967 passengers over two days during the Islamic New Year holiday, despite the absence of a long weekend. The figures highlight sustained public reliance on rail transport for intercity mobility in the region.

Food Prices in Depok Continue to Soar: Minyakita at Rp21,000 per Litre, Beef at Rp160,000 per Kg

Staple food prices in Depok, West Java, remain elevated following the Pertamax fuel price hike, with disruptions in supply due to extreme weather and harvest failures exacerbating the situation. Market monitoring reveals chilli prices reaching Rp50,000 per kg and packaged cooking oil hitting Rp23,000 per litre, while officials report a more than 30 per cent surge in commodity prices driven by increased logistics and agricultural production costs.

BNPB: One Sigi resident reported dead following Central Sulawesi earthquake

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake in Central Sulawesi has resulted in one fatality in Sigi Regency, with over 300 people affected across the province. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reports significant damage to homes, places of worship, and public facilities, while dozens of aftershocks continue to be recorded.

Australia Investigates Activists' Claims of Abuse by Israeli Forces

Australian federal authorities have launched an independent investigation into allegations that Australian citizens were abducted, assaulted, and tortured by Israeli forces. The activists, detained in May while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza by sea, presented their claims to Foreign Minister Penny Wong and the Australian Federal Police. Israel's embassy in Canberra has firmly denied the accusations.

Illegal Gold Mine Collapses in Aceh Jaya, Three Dead

A landslide at an illegal gold mine within a palm oil plantation in Aceh Jaya, Indonesia, has killed three miners and injured four others. The incident occurred on Tuesday in a concession area owned by PT TPP3 Astra, where the company had previously prohibited digging. Authorities are now enforcing a one-week deadline for the complete cessation of all illegal mining activities at the site.