Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 June 2026

Showing 451-500 of 970 articles

KPK Schedules Witness Examination in Fadia Arafiq Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is set to examine witnesses from Wednesday to Friday in the graft case involving suspended Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq. Acting Regent Sukirman has assured there will be no direction or conditioning of those summoned, urging full transparency. The investigation is probing alleged gratification and a conflict of interest in procurement contracts worth Rp19 billion that purportedly benefited Arafiq and her family.

Krakatau Steel boosts job opportunities and human resource competitiveness in Banten

Krakatau Steel, the Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, the Banten provincial government, and the alumni association of Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish the Banten Migrant Center. The initiative aims to enhance workforce skills, provide legal and safe overseas job placements, and reduce unemployment in the province. Banten is the first region to integrate government, universities, vocational schools, and a state-owned enterprise into a single ecosystem for preparing Indonesian migrant workers.

Jakarta Narcotics Prison and Salemba Detention Centre Uncover Four Drug Smuggling Methods, Including Concealment in Intimate Organs and Hair Ties

Officers at Jakarta's Narcotics Prison and Salemba Detention Centre foiled four drug smuggling attempts on a single day, seizing methamphetamine and liquid Etomidate. The smugglers employed increasingly desperate methods, including hiding packages inside intimate body parts and weaving narcotics into hair ties. The regional head of corrections praised the vigilance and integrity of the staff, stating the interceptions prove the security and early detection systems are functioning effectively.

Track Record of the B-52 Stratofortress That Crashed in California: Bombing Vietnam to Striking Iran

A United States Air Force Boeing B-52 Stratofortress crashed in the Mojave Desert, California, killing all eight people on board. The aircraft, nearing a century of service, has a long operational history spanning the Vietnam War, Desert Storm, and recent strikes against Iran. The crash highlights the risks associated with maintaining an ageing strategic bomber fleet that the Pentagon aims to keep active for a full century.

Duo Robbers Who Snatched Student's Motorcycle in Broad Daylight in Cileungsi Arrested by Police

Police have arrested two suspected robbers and a receiver of stolen goods after a student's motorcycle was violently snatched in broad daylight in Cileungsi, Bogor. The incident, which occurred on a Saturday afternoon as the victim was returning home from school, went viral after CCTV footage showed the armed perpetrators. The suspects have been handed over to the Polda Metro Jaya for further investigation due to jurisdictional boundaries.

Banten Migrant Centre Established to Expand Job Opportunities and Globally Competitive Human Resources

The Banten Migrant Centre has been launched through a collaboration between the Ministry of P2MI, the Banten provincial government, PT Krakatau Steel, and IKA Untirta. The initiative aims to enhance worker skills and provide legal, safe job placements to meet international market demands. It is expected to serve as a national pilot project for integrating government, industry, and education to reduce unemployment and boost the global competitiveness of Indonesian workers.

Sigi Regent's Office and Tadulako Auditorium Damaged by M 6.7 Earthquake

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck Palu, Central Sulawesi, has caused moderate damage to the Sigi Regent's Office and several other buildings, including a hotel and a university auditorium. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed there is no tsunami potential, though a minor 7.5 cm sea level rise was detected at Pantoloan Port. Authorities are urging residents to remain calm as assessments continue.

The Night of Suro and the Dialogue of Civilisations

The Javanese New Year's Eve of 1 Suro transforms public spaces across East Java into living cultural stages, blending history, spirituality, and local identity. Traditions such as the heirloom cleansing in Ponorogo and the Grebeg Suro ritual in Lumajang serve as moments of introspection and environmental reverence. Amidst rapid modernisation, these rituals pose a vital question about maintaining cultural relevance and inherited values.

Viral Video Shows Ojol Driver Assaulted and Accused of Snatch Theft in Depok, Police Investigate

An online motorcycle taxi driver in Depok was assaulted and falsely accused of being a snatch thief by an unknown man. The attacker struck the victim with his fists and a hammer before bystanders intervened. Police are currently investigating the incident to determine the motive behind the attack.

MUI: In Islamic New Year, Unity is the Unshakeable Backbone of Indonesia

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called for national unity as the cornerstone of progress and prosperity during the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah. Deputy Chairman M. Cholil Nafis urged Muslims to emulate the Prophet Muhammad's example in Medina, where diverse communities were bound by a shared commitment to defend the homeland. He also stressed the need for a modern 'hijrah' towards economic self-reliance and social welfare.

Astra develops tourism with nature conservation through Desa Sejahtera programme

Astra's Desa Sejahtera Astra programme is fostering community-based tourism in Les Village, North Bali, by integrating economic development with environmental and cultural preservation. The initiative has strengthened local enterprises and waste management, earning the village the top prize at the 2024 Indonesian Tourism Village Awards. The company views the programme as a model for balancing progress with sustainability in line with the SDGs.

PPIH Reminds Hajj Pilgrims to Observe 14-Day Self-Isolation Upon Return to Indonesia

The Hajj Organising Committee (PPIH) has instructed pilgrims returning to West Sumatra to strictly observe a 14-day self-isolation period to monitor their health after the journey. Officials emphasised the importance of hydration and nutrition to prevent post-travel illnesses such as dehydration and bronchitis. As of Monday, the Debarkation Padang has repatriated 4,294 pilgrims and staff, with three more groups remaining to complete the 1447 Hijriah season.

Prabowo's East Java Guard Condemns Statement Deemed Insulting to President

The East Java Regional Coordinating Council of Garda Prabowo has publicly condemned remarks by a former student activist that it considers demeaning to President Prabowo Subianto. The organisation stressed that while freedom of expression is a democratic right, it must be exercised with ethics and respect for state symbols. It called for constructive criticism and urged the public, particularly the youth, to foster a healthy, solution-oriented political discourse.

Gibran Meets Student Protest Representatives at Vice Presidential Palace

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka met with student protest representatives at the Vice Presidential Palace on Monday. The students conveyed their aspirations and set a 5x24 hour deadline for a response, threatening further demonstrations. Acting Secretary Al Muktabar stated that Gibran would relay the demands to President Prabowo Subianto.

EU Reportedly Fears Trump Will Seize Control of Ukraine Peace Talks

European Union officials are reportedly concerned that US President Donald Trump may take over Ukraine peace negotiations without European involvement. The move could undermine Europe's strategy of maintaining maximum pressure on Russia. Trump is said to be refocusing on the conflict after the Iran crisis de-escalated and remains optimistic about a peace deal.

Lempuyang Temple to Close 17-21 June for Pujawali Ceremony

The popular tourist destination Pura Lempuyang in Karangasem, Bali, will temporarily close to all visitors for five days to accommodate a major Hindu religious ceremony. The closure, from 17 to 21 June 2026, aims to ensure safety and order as thousands of worshippers are expected to attend the pujawali. Local authorities have coordinated with tour guides and travel agents to reschedule visits and will deploy traditional security forces to manage the influx of devotees.

Sony Sonjaya Allegedly Involved in Trillion-Rupiah MBG Corruption, Yet Retains Pro Bono Lawyer

Senior lawyer Elza Syarief has withdrawn from representing Sony Sonjaya, a suspect in a case of alleged corruption involving the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, which carries an estimated state loss of Rp20 trillion. Syarief revealed she had provided her services pro bono, based on Sonjaya's initial claims of innocence. She resigned after discovering information contradicting his statements, including allegations he received regular payments from another individual, undermining the trust required for his defence.

Responding to Komnas HAM, Human Rights Minister Affirms Free Nutritious Meals Programme as Part of Development

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has rejected the National Human Rights Commission's (Komnas HAM) assessment that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme shows strong indications of human rights violations. Pigai argued the programme is an ongoing development process aimed at fulfilling basic rights, particularly for vulnerable groups, and aligns with international frameworks and the Sustainable Development Goals. He called for proportional evaluation rather than labelling the initiative a rights violation.

6 Richest Families in Saudi Arabia, Who Hails from the Holy City of Mecca?

Saudi Arabia's wealthiest families have built vast fortunes through diversified conglomerates spanning banking, real estate, and energy. As the kingdom's economy expands under Vision 2030, new billionaires are emerging in technology and finance. This list highlights the top family dynasties, including one with deep roots in the holy city of Mecca.

How the Ukraine War Is Changing Russian Society

The war in Ukraine is profoundly reshaping Russian society, from the military's internal culture of violence and desertion to the economic incentives driving recruitment. An anthropologist's research reveals a brutal frontline lexicon and a black market for survival, while journalists note that military pay has turned some soldiers' families into a new middle class.

Government Claims Global Investors Remain Interested in Indonesia

The Indonesian government asserts that global investor interest in the country persists despite recent domestic financial market pressures and rupiah depreciation. Positive signals emerged from meetings between the Investment Minister and international business leaders, highlighting continued confidence in long-term growth sectors. The administration remains optimistic that sustained investment will bolster economic growth and job creation.

US Emergency Oil Reserves Plunge to Lowest Level Since 1983

The United States Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) has fallen to its lowest level since 1983, driven by aggressive drawdowns under the Trump administration to mitigate economic fallout from the conflict with Iran. With 8.9 million barrels released in a single week, the stockpile now stands at 340.3 million barrels, surpassing the previous low set during the Biden era. Industry experts warn that continued depletion without a rapid replenishment plan leaves the market dangerously exposed ahead of the Gulf of Mexico hurricane season.

Metro Jaya Police Detain Teenager Indicated for Drug Abuse During Patrol in Bekasi

The Metro Jaya Police Mobile Brigade detained a teenager suspected of drug abuse during a preventative patrol in Bekasi Regency, West Java. The operation, aimed at curbing youth brawls and illegal street racing, also maintained public order across several hotspot areas. The detained individual was handed over to the Bekasi Metro Resort Police for further processing.

Germany Eyes Indonesian Workers and Stronger Investment Amid Youth Shortage

Germany is seeking to deepen economic ties with Indonesia, targeting trade, investment, and labour exchange programmes to address its declining young population. The enthusiasm follows progress on the Indonesia–EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, with German businesses also interested in strategic minerals and energy transition. Technical discussions on worker placement and training are set to continue in September.

House Commission II Urges KPU-Bawaslu to Study E-Voting for Overseas Voters

The House of Representatives' Commission II is pushing election organisers to explore electronic voting for Indonesian citizens abroad, citing persistent logistical vulnerabilities and fraud risks in conventional overseas polling. Chairman Rifqinizamy Karsayuda argued that the tech-savvy diaspora and restrictive foreign labour conditions make e-voting a rational solution. The commission also flagged overseas electoral representation, including the possibility of a dedicated diaspora constituency, as a key issue for upcoming election law revisions.

BPBD Sulawesi Barat Urges Calm After 6.7 Magnitude Earthquake in Palu

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of West Sulawesi has called on residents to remain calm but vigilant following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake centred in Palu, Central Sulawesi. The agency warned of potential aftershocks and advised people to avoid damaged buildings while relying solely on official information channels. The tremor was strongly felt in Mamuju, causing panic and temporary evacuations at hospitals, though no immediate damage or casualties were reported there.

Inaco to List on IDX, Targeting Rp 392 Billion in IPO

Indonesian food and beverage producer PT Niramas Utama Tbk, known as Inaco, plans to list on the Indonesia Stock Exchange on 7 July 2026 under the ticker JELI. The company is offering 350 million shares at a price range of Rp 900 to Rp 1,120 each, aiming to raise Rp 392 billion. Proceeds will primarily fund a capital injection into a subsidiary, machinery purchases, debt repayment, and working capital.

13 Illegal Mount Semeru Hikers Detained

Authorities from the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Agency have detained 13 individuals for illegally climbing Mount Semeru via unauthorised routes. The detentions occurred during two separate enforcement operations in Lumajang and Malang Regencies, underscoring the park's commitment to conservation and climber safety. Officials reiterated calls for the public to adhere to regulations and avoid closed or illegal trails.

M6.7 Earthquake Damages Sigi Regent's Office and Tadulako University Auditorium

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Palu, Central Sulawesi, causing moderate non-structural damage to several buildings, including the Sigi Regent's Office and Tadulako University Auditorium. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the quake did not trigger a tsunami, though a minor 7.5 cm sea level rise was recorded at Pantoloan Port. Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and are conducting field surveys to assess the full impact.

Shalawat Buses in Mecca Remain Operational 24 Hours Despite Fewer Pilgrims

Indonesia's Hajj organising committee has confirmed that the free Shalawat bus service in Mecca will continue operating 24 hours a day until 21 June 2026, despite a sharp decline in the number of Indonesian pilgrims. The service, which transports worshippers between hotels and the Grand Mosque, will dynamically adjust routes and halts based on remaining pilgrim concentrations. Two routes have already been fully suspended as pilgrims have departed for Medina or returned home.

Minister Pigai: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Is Not a Human Rights Violation, But a Fulfilment of Basic Rights

Minister of Human Rights Natalius Pigai has firmly stated that the government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is a fulfilment of citizens' basic rights, not a human rights violation. He argued that the programme is an ongoing process aimed at improving quality of life, particularly for vulnerable groups, and should not be categorically condemned despite requiring evaluation. Pigai acknowledged the need for periodic assessment but cautioned against baseless accusations of rights abuses.

Jakarta Offers Rp1 Public Transport Fares for 499th Anniversary

The Jakarta provincial government will introduce a special Rp1 fare for MRT, LRT, and TransJakarta services on three designated days in June 2026 to celebrate the city's 499th anniversary. The initiative also includes free entry to several tourist attractions, such as Ancol and Ragunan Zoo, as part of the public festivities.

Harvesting Gold from BRImo: How BRILink Agents Can Earn Rewards from BRI

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has launched a new incentive programme rewarding BRILink agents with gold savings for onboarding new users to its BRImo digital application. The initiative, starting 6 July 2026, aims to accelerate digital adoption and expand financial access, particularly in remote areas. Agents can earn tiered gold rewards based on the number of customers they successfully register and activate for transactions.

BNPB Details Moments of M 6.7 Earthquake Shaking Palu, Several Buildings Severely Damaged

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Palu, Central Sulawesi, causing panic and damage to buildings across several districts. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and local agencies are assessing the impact, with reports of damage in Palu, Sigi, and Parigi Moutong, while casualty and displacement data is still being collected.

KPK Considers Forcible Pickup of Model and Former Aide Heri Gunawan in BI-OJK CSR Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is considering forcibly bringing in Fitri Assiddikki, a model and former aide to Gerindra Party politician Heri Gunawan, after she twice failed to appear for questioning. Her testimony is deemed crucial for tracing assets linked to Gunawan, a suspect in the alleged misappropriation of Bank Indonesia and OJK corporate social responsibility funds. The case involves two former lawmakers accused of receiving billions of rupiah in illicit CSR funds.

BGN to Halt Free Nutritious Meals During School Holidays, Audit All Kitchens

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will suspend the Free Nutritious Meals programme during the school holiday period to conduct a comprehensive audit of all meal provider units (SPPG). The evaluation will focus on kitchen quality, internal governance, human resources, and beneficiary data systems to ensure more accurate targeting and improved efficiency when the programme resumes.

Getting to Know Helium-3: The Moon's Rare Gas for Future Energy

Helium-3, a rare isotope valued at approximately US$2,000 per litre, is emerging as a critical resource for quantum computing and clean nuclear fusion energy. While Earth's supply is limited and controlled as a by-product of nuclear weapons, lunar regolith contains far higher concentrations, sparking a race among start-ups to develop moon mining operations. Despite the immense challenge of processing hundreds of thousands of tonnes of lunar soil for a single kilogram, demand is surging, with a Finnish quantum computing firm already securing a US$300 million supply contract.

Tracing Bung Karno's Footsteps in His Bengkulu Exile Home, Igniting Nationalism Through Monte Carlo

The exile of Indonesia's first president, Soekarno, in Bengkulu from 1938 to 1942 proved to be a remarkably productive period where he channelled his political struggle through the arts. Despite strict colonial surveillance, he founded the Monte Carlo theatre group and various sports clubs to instil nationalist ideals among the local populace. A recent visit by Yogyakarta legislators highlighted how the colonial policy of isolation inadvertently spread the spirit of independence across the archipelago.

Investor Interest Surges as Danantara Raises USD1.5 Billion from Global Bond Issuance

Indonesia's superholding Danantara successfully raised USD 1.5 billion in its inaugural global bond offering, significantly exceeding its initial USD 1 billion target due to oversubscription of USD 4.6 billion. The issuance, which saw strong demand particularly from US investors, signals robust international confidence in the Indonesian economy. The bonds were issued in two tranches with competitive yields, and the funds are scheduled to be received on 18 June.

BMKG Reveals Potential Liquefaction and Landslide Risk After Palu Earthquake

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned of possible liquefaction and landslides following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake in Palu. Officials noted that while conditions exist in certain sandy, water-saturated areas, the risk is expected to be far less severe than the catastrophic liquefaction seen during the 2018 disaster. The agency continues to monitor aftershocks, with 20 recorded so far, and reports building damage including to the regent's office.

Constitutional Court Hearing: P2G Says Free Meal Project Impacts All Teacher Categories

The Education and Teachers Association (P2G) has testified in the Constitutional Court that the government's free nutritious meal (MBG) programme has negatively affected teachers' careers and welfare across all employment categories. The group presented evidence of mass layoffs, drastically reduced incomes for part-time state teachers, and increased workloads with less teaching time. They urged the court to consider that the 20% education budget mandated by the constitution should prioritise teacher welfare rather than being diverted to the MBG project.

El Niño Predicted to Threaten Food Security and Economy in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is bracing for an extreme El Niño weather pattern expected to form by August 2026, threatening the region's key agricultural commodities and economic stability. The phenomenon could severely impact rice and palm oil production, potentially triggering systemic food price crises and inflation across the region. Governments already strained by rising energy and subsidy costs may face further pressure from crop failures, reduced tourism, and transboundary haze.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah completes first wave return of Hajj pilgrims from Padang embarkation

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in West Sumatra has completed the repatriation of the first wave of Hajj pilgrims from Padang embarkation for the 1447 Hijri season. A total of 11 flight groups have returned via the Jeddah-Padang route, with three remaining groups still in Medina. One pilgrim from the final group of the first wave passed away in Mecca due to cardiogenic shock.

Pertamina Showcases Local MSMEs at Bright Store Jakarta Fair

State-owned energy company Pertamina is promoting its fostered micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the Jakarta Fair 2026 through its Bright Store booth. The initiative aims to expand market access and enhance the competitiveness of local businesses. The booth features various local products alongside Pertamina's own promotional offers.

Not Ghosts: What Indonesians Fear Most, According to a Pew Survey

A Pew Research Center survey across 25 nations reveals that terrorism is the top fear for Indonesians, with 87% viewing it as a major threat. The study also highlights global anxieties, with the spread of online false information and economic conditions ranking as the leading concerns worldwide.

6.7 magnitude earthquake shakes part of Indonesia, causing scattered damage

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Palu, Central Sulawesi, causing structural damage and prompting hospital evacuations. The tremor revived traumatic memories of the 2018 disaster that killed over 4,000 people, though no tsunami warning was issued. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of casualties and damage from the event.

National Sheep Population Reaches 9.15 Million Head in 2025

Indonesia's domestic sheep population has grown to 9.15 million in 2025, enabling the government to halt most imports of sheep and goats for nearly a year. Limited imports will resume only to supply premium meat for the hotel, restaurant, and catering sector, while authorities push local producers to eventually meet all national demand.

Ministry of Agriculture Declares Indonesia Self-Sufficient in Sheep and Goat Meat

Indonesia has achieved self-sufficiency in sheep and goat meat, with imports now below 10% of national demand, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. The government is now focusing on boosting exports and has even utilised domestic supplies for the Hajj pilgrimage. This milestone adds to the nation's existing self-sufficiency in chicken meat and eggs.

West Java DPRD Assesses Cirebon Can Strengthen Regional Economic Role

The West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) believes Cirebon City has the potential to reinforce its position as a trade, services, and economic growth hub for eastern West Java. The city's historical role as an administrative centre is seen as a foundation for boosting regional competitiveness. Officials also highlighted urban farming and spillover effects from surrounding industrial areas as key opportunities for development.

Iran stresses US responsibility for implementing peace agreement

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has underscored the United States' responsibility in implementing a peace memorandum with Iran and securing a complete halt to Israeli military strikes on Lebanon. The remarks were made during separate calls with his Turkish, Iraqi, and Egyptian counterparts, highlighting ongoing regional diplomatic efforts. The two sides are expected to begin further negotiations within 60 days to resolve outstanding issues following the signing of the memorandum.