Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 June 2026

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Ragunan Zoo Predicts 40,000 Visitors for Islamic New Year

The management of Ragunan Zoo in South Jakarta anticipates up to 40,000 visitors during the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah holiday. By midday, over 25,000 people had already arrived, with favourable weather supporting the turnout. Officials have urged visitors to follow safety rules and maintain cleanliness.

Koster Requests Additional Logistics Shipping Trips to Nusa Penida

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has urged the Klungkung regency to increase subsidised shipping trips to Nusa Penida to stabilise food prices. The move aims to eliminate price disparities between the mainland and the island by ensuring smoother supply chains and secure stock levels. The provincial government also requested a review of existing tariffs to support the service.

Central Sulawesi Deputy Governor Ensures Handling of Earthquake-Affected Residents

Central Sulawesi Deputy Governor Reny A. Lamadjido has confirmed that the provincial government is taking swift action to manage the aftermath of a magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck several areas on Tuesday morning. Five patients with minor injuries are being treated at Undata Hospital in Palu, while authorities prepare emergency measures including the potential erection of field tents for hospital services. The regional disaster agency reports damage to buildings, bridges, and roads across Palu, Sigi, and Parigi Moutong, with dozens of aftershocks recorded.

BNPB Assesses Damage After M6.7 Earthquake Shakes Central Sulawesi

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) is surveying damage after a magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Central Sulawesi, causing panic and structural cracks in several districts. Early reports indicate damage to buildings in Palu City, Sigi, and Parigi Moutong, though no urgent needs or casualty figures have been confirmed. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant against aftershocks.

Revealed! The Culprit Behind 10,000 Containers Piling Up at Tanjung Priok

Indonesia's Director General of Customs and Excise has revealed that the backlog of 10,000 containers at Tanjung Priok port is not due to customs procedures, but because importers are deliberately delaying collection. Companies are exploiting a three-day free storage period to avoid higher costs at external warehouses, with some leaving goods for over two weeks. Authorities are now enforcing removal and plan to push importers to use off-site storage facilities.

After Delays, Second Wave of Hajj Pilgrims Finally Return Home to Indonesia

The first group of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims from the second wave has departed Madinah for their return journey to Indonesia. Despite minor scheduling conflicts with pilgrims from India and Pakistan, the departure of 444 pilgrims from Kloter KJT 21 proceeded smoothly.

Which Weton Should Not Go Out on 1 Suro Night? Check the List Here!

The Javanese New Year's Eve, known as malam 1 Suro, marks the transition from the month of Besar to Suro and falls on the evening of 16 June 2026. Certain Javanese birth day combinations, or weton, particularly those classified as Tulang Wangi, are traditionally advised against going outdoors due to beliefs about attracting unseen spirits. The observance also includes broader prohibitions against holding celebrations, quarrelling, or moving house, as the night is considered sacred and a time for introspection.

Danantara CEO Claims High Global Investor Confidence in Indonesia

Danantara Indonesia CEO Rosan Roeslani asserts that global investor confidence in Indonesia remains strong, evidenced by the oversubscription of its inaugural US dollar global bond. The offering, initially targeted at USD 1 billion, attracted USD 4.6 billion in demand, allowing the sovereign wealth fund to upsize the issuance to USD 1.5 billion. The strong demand, particularly from US and European investors, enabled competitive yields despite prevailing global economic uncertainties.

Capital Market Reform: A Crucial Momentum

Indonesia's stock market faces heightened scrutiny after MSCI suspended index additions, citing concerns over free float transparency and high shareholding concentration. The move underscores the urgent need for regulatory reform to restore investor confidence and ensure fair price discovery.

Claiming to Be Clean, Sony Sonjaya's Lies Exposed, Prompting Elza Syarief to Resign as His Lawyer

Senior lawyer Elza Syarief has resigned from representing Sony Sonjaya, a suspect in a corruption case involving the free nutritious meal programme (MBG), after discovering he was not truthful about his innocence. Syarief stated that Sonjaya had sworn he was clean, but she later received information that he had routinely received money from another party. Her resignation took effect on 15 June 2026, citing a breach of trust and restricted access to information as key reasons for her withdrawal.

West Java Legislator Says Data Validation Key to Sekolah Maung Success

A West Java legislator has stressed that accurate data validation and synchronisation of underprivileged student records are crucial for the success of the Sekolah Maung programme. Tina Wiryawati emphasised that precise data ensures benefits reach eligible students and aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's focus on revitalising schools and guaranteeing access for the poor. The programme aims to transform 41 state senior and vocational high schools into centres for high-achieving students across the province.

Homes, Hotels, and Regent's Office Damaged by M6.7 Palu Earthquake

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck near Palu, Central Sulawesi, causing moderate non-structural damage to buildings including the Sigi Regent's Office, a hotel, and numerous homes. The shallow quake was triggered by activity on the Sausu fault and did not generate a tsunami threat. Authorities are conducting field surveys to assess the full extent of the impact.

Trump-Iran Deal: Lebanese Citizens Begin Returning Home Amid Ongoing Tensions

Following a US-Iran agreement aimed at de-escalation, thousands of displaced Lebanese families have started returning to their homes in the south. Despite the diplomatic breakthrough, Israel insists on maintaining its military buffer zone and continuing operations against Hezbollah, creating a fragile and uncertain peace. Lebanese officials are urging the US to enforce the ceasefire terms to ensure a full Israeli withdrawal.

Ministry of Education and UNESCO Encourage Youth to Become Solutions in Addressing Environmental Conservation Challenges

The Indonesian Ministry of Education and UNESCO are collaborating to integrate sustainable development into education, emphasising real-world learning experiences. Minister Abdul Mu'ti highlighted the need for students to develop intellectual, emotional, and environmental awareness to tackle future challenges. The partnership includes initiatives like the 'Sustaining Our Oceans' project in Wakatobi, which blends modern science with local ecological knowledge.

Shallow M6.7 Earthquake in Palu, Central Sulawesi, Triggered by Sausu Fault Activity

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck Palu, Central Sulawesi, at a shallow depth of 16 kilometres was caused by activity along the Sausu Fault, according to Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). The agency confirmed the quake had a normal fault mechanism and ruled out any tsunami potential. Officials urged the public to remain calm, avoid damaged buildings, and rely on verified information from authorities.

West Java's 2026 SPMB Opens, Many State Schools Still Under-Subscribed

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has announced the opening of the 2026 New Student Admission System (SPMB), urging parents to consider under-subscribed state schools rather than competing for oversubscribed ones. The provincial government is also promoting alternative pathways, including Open High Schools and partnerships with over 700 private schools backed by the Pancawaluya Scholarship, to guarantee free access to education. The initiative aims to ensure every child in the province can attend school without financial barriers.

Bitcoin Surges After US-Iran Peace Deal, Indodax Reveals Factors Driving Crypto Market Recovery

The cryptocurrency market has rallied following a de-escalation of geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran. Bitcoin briefly surpassed $65,900 as improved global sentiment encouraged investors to return to high-volatility assets. Indodax noted that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and peace signals have been key catalysts for the recovery.

Human Rights Minister Affirms Free Nutritious Meals Programme as Fulfilment of Citizens' Basic Rights

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has stated that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is part of the state's effort to fulfil basic rights, not a human rights violation. He emphasised that any evaluation should focus on improving governance to optimise the fulfilment of rights to food, health, and education. Pigai noted the programme aligns with international human rights instruments and the Sustainable Development Goals by targeting vulnerable and marginalised groups.

First Wave of Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims' Return Concludes, 95,178 Flown Home

The first phase of repatriating Indonesian Hajj pilgrims has been completed, with 95,178 pilgrims and 977 officials flown back from Saudi Arabia as of 15 June. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed the operation has been safe and orderly, with the final flight of the first wave departing Jeddah early on 16 June. Attention is now shifting to the second wave of pilgrims in Madinah, while authorities continue to urge health vigilance and compliance with baggage rules.

BGN to fully audit free meal kitchens during school holidays

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will temporarily halt operations and conduct comprehensive audits of all free meal programme kitchens during the school holidays. The initiative aims to enhance food safety, service quality, and data management, while also restructuring kitchen incentives from a fixed daily rate to a variable model based on performance and beneficiary numbers. This follows a leadership shake-up at BGN prompted by governance and compliance concerns within the flagship nutritional programme.

Suspicious Findings at the Death Scene of a Purwakarta Official: Cable and Rope Discovered

Police investigating the death of a Purwakarta regional asset management official have discovered suspicious items at the scene. A ladder leading to an open roof access was found, along with a rope, belt, cable, and a severed connection of cable and rope. Authorities are also documenting wounds on the victim's body as the investigation continues.

Scientists Map Underground Fungal 'Motorway' 1 Billion Times the Earth-Sun Distance

Researchers have for the first time mapped a vast subterranean network of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, estimated to stretch 110 quadrillion kilometres globally. The fungal filaments, or hyphae, lock away roughly 300 megatons of carbon and transfer billions of tonnes of CO2 into the soil annually, functioning as a crucial planetary circulatory system. The study warns that agricultural land has 50% lower fungal density than wild ecosystems, with 95% of fungal biodiversity hotspots lying outside protected areas.

Senior Broadcaster Teddy Resmi Sari Passes Away at Age 90

Teddy Resmi Sari, a pioneering Indonesian broadcaster and daughter of literary figure Sanusi Pane, has died at her home in South Tangerang at the age of 90. She was best known for presenting the iconic TVRI children's programme 'Cerdas Cermat' and was one of the first to join the national television station. Her passing marks the loss of a foundational figure in Indonesia's broadcasting history.

House Member Demands 2027 LPSK Budget Align with Witness and Victim Protection Law Mandate

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged the government to adjust the 2027 budget for the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to match its expanded mandate under a new law. Rieke Diah Pitaloka stressed that fiscal support must follow the agency's broadened functions, which now include victim recovery, compensation, and digital threat protection. The indicative budget ceiling of Rp130 billion falls far short of the agency's requested Rp392 billion, prompting calls for a thorough evaluation and immediate allocation for strategic programmes.

70-Year-Old Grandfather in PIK Still Traumatised After Attempted Kidnapping, Police Provide Support

A 70-year-old man in Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK), North Jakarta, remains deeply traumatised and afraid to leave his home alone after surviving an attempted kidnapping. Police have arrested two suspects, CW and FAP, with CW allegedly orchestrating the attack due to a grudge over his relationship with the victim's child being rejected. Authorities are providing support to the victim and have increased patrols in the area.

Thailand appoints South African, German experts for UN arbitration process in dispute with Cambodia

Thailand has named conciliators from South Africa and Germany to participate in a UNCLOS compulsory conciliation process initiated by Cambodia over a maritime boundary dispute. The contested area in the Gulf of Thailand covers 26,000 sq km and is believed to hold significant oil and gas reserves worth an estimated US$300 billion. The proceedings follow the collapse of a 2001 bilateral negotiation framework and come amid historically tense relations between the two Southeast Asian neighbours.

Tadulako University Buildings in Palu Damaged by M6.7 Earthquake

Several buildings at Tadulako University in Palu, Central Sulawesi, sustained damage following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake centred in Parigi Moutong Regency. A primary school graduation ceremony was underway at the campus during the tremor, but all attendees were safely evacuated without casualties. Patients at Undata Hospital who were temporarily evacuated have also returned to their wards as conditions stabilised.

Student Demonstrations Are Part of Democracy

A senior Prabowo volunteer responds to Megawati Soekarnoputri's support for student protests, affirming the constitutional right to free speech while urging objective criticism. She calls for dialogue and national unity, emphasising the government's ongoing efforts in food security, education, and economic stability.

KLH Targets 100 Environmental Service Payment Schemes by 2026 to Incentivise Green Action

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment aims to expand its Environmental Service Payment (PJLH) programme to 100 schemes this year, moving beyond numerical targets to focus on tangible impact. The initiative, based on the Payment for Ecosystem Services principle, seeks to channel contributions from beneficiaries to those who conserve ecosystems. Officials say the scheme is designed to strengthen environmental protection while boosting the welfare of communities safeguarding the nation's natural resources.

Feeling Deceived, Elza Syarief Resigns as Sony Sonjaya's Lawyer: He Swore an Oath but Was Dishonest

Senior lawyer Elza Syarief has withdrawn from representing Sony Sonjaya, a suspect in the free nutritious meal programme corruption case, citing his dishonesty after he swore an oath of innocence. She also expressed discomfort over alleged attempts by certain parties to restrict her access to information, and revealed she had been working on the case pro bono.

Expert: Chinese Chamber of Commerce Letter Serves as Alarm for Indonesia's Investment Climate

A five-page letter from the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia to President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted critical structural issues hampering the national investment climate, including regulatory uncertainty and bureaucratic inefficiencies. Experts view the document as constructive feedback and a warning that investment climate reform cannot be postponed. Despite these challenges, Indonesia remains attractive to foreign investors due to its large domestic market and downstreaming policies.

Berau to Use National Family Day as Momentum to Strengthen Family Resilience

The Berau Regency Government, set to host East Kalimantan's 33rd National Family Day in 2026, plans to leverage the event to bolster family resilience across health and economic dimensions. Initiatives will include promoting nutritious food consumption to combat stunting and organising a subsidised fish market. The event will also feature exhibitions for local MSMEs and village-owned enterprises to expand their market reach.

Four Drug Smuggling Attempts into Jakarta Prisons Foiled

Authorities thwarted four separate attempts to smuggle narcotics into the Lapas Narkotika Jakarta and Rutan Kelas I Jakarta Pusat (Salemba) in a single day. The contraband, including methamphetamine and liquid Etomidate, was concealed in body cavities, medicine bottles, and hair buns. The regional head of corrections praised the officers' vigilance and reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs in the facilities.

Apple increasingly likely to skip iPhone 18 release in 2026

Apple appears set to alter its iPhone launch schedule, potentially delaying the standard iPhone 18 until spring 2027. A key camera lens supplier has indicated a major US client is postponing a new model launch, suggesting only the iPhone 18 Pro and Apple's first foldable phone will debut in 2026. The move is part of a new strategy to stagger premium and more affordable model releases to manage manufacturing resources and sustain year-round sales momentum.

Strait of Hormuz Reopens, Analysts Predict Oil Price Drop and More Controlled Global Inflation

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz following a peace deal between the US and Iran is expected to ease global oil prices. Market analysts note that crude prices have already corrected below $80 per barrel and could fall further towards $75, driven by both reduced geopolitical risk and a global supply surplus. The development is seen as a positive signal for taming global inflationary pressures.

Israeli Media: Tel Aviv Frustrated as US Bows to Iranian Demands

Israeli media report growing frustration among Tel Aviv's political leadership following a US-Iran memorandum of understanding to end the war. Officials are alarmed by the inclusion of Lebanon in the deal, which has sparked public tension between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump. Commentators warn that Israel's military freedom of action is now more constrained and its reliance on Washington has become dangerously irresponsible.

House Commission XI: Hundreds of Trillions in Education Funds Go Unspent

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has accused the government of failing to meet its constitutional obligation to allocate 20% of the state budget to education, citing hundreds of trillions of rupiah in unspent funds over the past five years. The legislator argues that the shortfall is not merely due to slow programme execution but stems from a structural issue where education funds are placed in financing positions rather than direct spending. He warned that this practice effectively deprives citizens of their constitutional right to education services.

Central Sulawesi Governor Orders Emergency Response After Palu Earthquake

Central Sulawesi Governor Anwar Hafid has mobilised emergency services following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Palu on Tuesday. The governor has prioritised public safety, directing medical teams, disaster agencies, and local authorities to provide immediate assistance and secure basic needs for affected residents. Comprehensive building assessments are also underway, with officials urging vigilance against potential aftershocks.

Shock! Bus Driver Salaries in Singapore Hit Rp 60 Million

Bus drivers in Singapore earn competitive salaries, with some operators offering monthly pay packages reaching SGD 4,500 (approximately Rp 62 million). A new policy set for 2027 will further increase starting salaries for local drivers, funded by the government in agreement with transport stakeholders.

Two Kupang PPPK Fined Rp 1 Million for Drinking and Smoking During Working Hours

Two government contract employees (PPPK) in Kupang Regency have been fined Rp 1 million each after a surprise inspection by the regent caught them drinking traditional liquor and smoking in the office during working hours. The regent expressed deep disappointment, stating such behaviour violates public service ethics. The regional secretary confirmed the administrative sanctions must be paid into the regional treasury within the week.

BPBD Central Sulawesi: Several buildings damaged by magnitude 6.7 earthquake

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck southeast of Palu, Central Sulawesi, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure across several districts. The regional disaster management agency (BPBD) reports cracked bridges, collapsed buildings, landslides, and disrupted water channels, while confirming no tsunami threat. Rapid response teams are currently assessing the full extent of the damage and casualties.

Palangka Raya to Expand Financing Cooperation with Jamkrindo

The Palangka Raya city government is set to broaden its financing partnership with PT Jaminan Kredit Indonesia (Jamkrindo) from a departmental level to a city-wide scale. The enhanced collaboration aims to support wider access to financing for development programmes and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). A formal memorandum of understanding is planned to provide a stronger legal foundation for the guarantee services covering government projects.

Tracing the Eruption's Path, Encountering Wawan at Mbah Marijan's House

A family's lava tour on Mount Merapi becomes a poignant journey through the scars of the 2010 eruption. The trip leads to a museum dedicated to the late spiritual guardian Mbah Marijan, where the author unexpectedly finds a memorial to his former colleague, journalist Yuniawan 'Wawan' Nugroho. Wawan was among those killed while reporting on the devastating pyroclastic flows.

Kloter 11 Closes First Wave of Returns, Padang Debarkation Leaves Three Kloter in Saudi Arabia

The arrival of Kloter 11 at Minangkabau International Airport marks the completion of the first wave of returning Indonesian Hajj pilgrims for the Padang debarkation point, with 4,294 pilgrims safely back in the country. Three remaining kloter are still in Medina and will be repatriated in the second wave via the Medina-Padang route. Officials have praised the smooth process and urged returning pilgrims to uphold the values of patience and discipline learned during their pilgrimage.

MPR Deputy Speaker: Preserving Lengger Strengthens Character of Future Generations

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has emphasised that preserving the traditional Banyumas Lengger dance is not only about protecting cultural heritage but is also a strategic effort to strengthen the character and national consciousness of the younger generation. She described culture as the moral infrastructure of democracy, warning that democracy is often reduced to mere political contests without deeper cultural roots. Moerdijat also encouraged efforts to have Lengger recognised as a UNESCO world cultural heritage following its 2019 designation as a national intangible heritage.

Astra Invites Youth to Be Sensitive and Deliver Real Benefits to Society

PT Astra International launched its 17th SATU Indonesia Awards roadshow in Banyuwangi, East Java, aiming to mobilise the region's large youth demographic for social innovation. The initiative encourages young people to develop solutions in health, education, environment, and technology, with winners receiving funding and mentorship. The programme will integrate youth projects with Astra's existing prosperous village scheme to amplify community impact.

India Suddenly Blocks Telegram

India has temporarily blocked the messaging app Telegram for six days after it was allegedly used to cheat in medical entrance exams. The Ministry of Education confirmed the ban, which comes amid public outcry over leaked exam questions and prompted authorities to schedule a retest.

ABI and Indonesian Foreign Ministry Open Global Market Opportunities for Businesses via Halal Expo

Ahlulbait Indonesia (ABI) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are set to promote the Halal Expo Indonesia 2026, aiming to strengthen business capacity in the growing halal industry. The initiative targets sectors including fashion, culinary, halal tourism, and Islamic finance, offering participants access to market expansion, business networking, and investment opportunities. The collaboration seeks to foster an inclusive and competitive halal economic ecosystem while boosting the contribution of ABI community businesses to the national economy.

Bogor Transport Agency to Cull 1,780 Angkots Older Than 20 Years

The Bogor City Transport Agency (Dishub) is set to phase out 1,780 angkot (public minivans) that are over 20 years old, following a newly signed mayoral regulation. Approximately 300 of these vehicles are already inactive, but their administrative records remain pending cancellation. The enforcement will begin with a public awareness campaign before joint operations commence.

Roles of Two Suspects in Attempted Kidnapping of 70-Year-Old Man in PIK Revealed

Police have detailed the roles of two suspects arrested for the attempted kidnapping of a 70-year-old man in Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta. The driver, CW, is believed to be the mastermind, motivated by resentment after the victim disapproved of his relationship with the victim's daughter. The other suspect, FAP, acted as the executor in the failed abduction.