Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 June 2026

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Patients at Parigi's Anuntaloko Hospital Evacuated After 6.7 Magnitude Earthquake

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck Parigi Moutong, Central Sulawesi, prompting the evacuation of patients from Anuntaloko Hospital. The tremor, which occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres, did not trigger a tsunami warning. Patients and staff remained outdoors awaiting instructions due to fears of aftershocks.

Prabowo underscores importance of Indonesia-Germany cooperation

President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the enduring strategic partnership between Indonesia and Germany during a meeting with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. He noted Germany's historical role in Indonesia's development, citing inspiration in innovation and discipline, and referenced personal and national ties, including B.J. Habibie's education there. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across various sectors amid global uncertainties.

DPR Agrees with BGN Plan to Cut Free Nutritious Meal Beneficiaries, Saving Trillions in Budget

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has endorsed a proposal by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to significantly reduce the number of recipients for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The move aims to refocus the programme strictly on vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children from the lowest income deciles. Officials estimate the targeted approach could slash the programme's budget from a potential Rp200 trillion to around Rp100 trillion.

Ringgit, Peso, Dong, and Baht Slump; Only Yen and Won Survive

Most Asian currencies weakened against the US dollar on Tuesday as the greenback regained strength. The Malaysian ringgit led the decline, while the Japanese yen and South Korean won managed slight gains. Market focus has shifted from the US-Iran peace deal to the upcoming Federal Reserve policy meeting under its new leadership.

Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud Listed as Overrated Destinations by Foreign Tourists

Several popular Indonesian destinations, including Canggu, Seminyak, Ubud, Tegalalang, and Jakarta, have been labelled 'overrated' by foreign tourists. The assessment, cited from Yahoo Finance, suggests that surging visitor numbers and commercialisation have eroded the authentic charm of these locations. While still worth visiting, travellers are advised to plan itineraries carefully to manage expectations and costs.

Shallow Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake Shakes Palu, Hospital Patients Evacuated

A shallow tectonic earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck the city of Palu in Central Sulawesi, causing panic and prompting the evacuation of patients from a local hospital. The tremor, centred 42 kilometres southeast of Palu at a depth of 10 kilometres, was felt across several regencies but did not trigger a tsunami warning.

Specifications of the B-52 Bomber That Crashed and Killed 8 People in the US

A US Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after take-off from Edwards Air Force Base in California during a routine radar modernisation test mission, killing all eight crew members on board. The aircraft, a strategic mainstay of the US bomber fleet for over 60 years, is capable of carrying nuclear weapons and precision-guided munitions. The US Air Force plans to operate the B-52 until 2050, with only the H model currently in service.

MBG, KDMP, and Rupiah Weakening Among Issues Voiced by Students Besieging West Java DPRD Building

Hundreds of students demonstrated outside the West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) building in Bandung, voicing public grievances over perceived government injustice and fiscal waste. The protest, which began in the afternoon, saw tensions flare near sunset when firecrackers caused the crowd to scatter. Key demands included halting the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, the Red and White Village Cooperative (KDMP) scheme, and addressing the weakening rupiah.

Health Ministry Explains Plan to Standardise Cigarette Packaging

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is moving to introduce plain packaging for tobacco and electronic cigarette products to reduce their appeal, particularly among children and adolescents. The proposed ministerial regulation will mandate uniform colours and restrict branding elements while retaining graphic health warnings. The policy aims to curb youth smoking initiation and is part of broader government efforts to enforce tobacco control under the 2023 Health Law.

Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements Found Ineffective in Preventing Fractures in the Elderly

A large-scale review published in The BMJ, involving nearly 154,000 participants, has found that calcium and vitamin D supplements provide little to no protection against fractures or falls in older adults. The researchers analysed 69 clinical trials and concluded that routine supplementation is not supported by current evidence. They recommend that clinical practitioners and health guideline bodies re-evaluate their recommendations and instead focus resources on proven strategies like balance and resistance exercises.

Jakarta Council Urges BUMDs to Boost Regional Revenue Contribution

The Jakarta Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has called on city-owned enterprises (BUMDs) to shift focus from relying on capital injections to actively contributing to locally generated revenue. Persistent issues such as uncollected third-party receivables and underutilised assets were highlighted as key obstacles. The council is pushing for a comprehensive resolution plan involving the Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) to prevent these problems from becoming a prolonged burden.

Bahlil: PLN Faces Shortage of Medium-Calorie Coal for Power Plants

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has acknowledged that state electricity firm PLN is struggling to secure sufficient medium-calorie coal due to the low price set under the domestic market obligation (DMO). The price gap between the DMO and the market rate has made producers reluctant to supply PLN, contributing to recent power outages in Java. The ministry plans to form a procurement team to address the shortfall.

Market Confidence in Indonesia Remains Strong Amid Government Deregulation Push

State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi outlined the government's strategy to bolster public and investor confidence through legal certainty, deregulation, and streamlined business licensing. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed ministers to accelerate downstream processing and industrialisation to strengthen the rupiah and enhance export competitiveness. The strong international trust was underscored by Danantara's debut global bond issuance, which was oversubscribed more than three times, reaching a peak orderbook of USD 4.6 billion.

OIC Condemns Opening of Somaliland Embassy in Jerusalem

The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has strongly condemned the opening of an embassy by the self-declared 'Somaliland' in occupied Jerusalem, labelling the move illegal and a blatant violation of international law. The bloc reaffirmed Israel's lack of sovereignty over the city and expressed full solidarity with Somalia's territorial integrity. It urged the international community to take a firm stance against the unilateral action.

Mangkuluhur Artotel Suites Presents 'Echoes of Harmony': Duo Art Exhibition at ARTSPACE

Mangkuluhur ARTOTEL Suites Jakarta has launched a new art exhibition titled 'Echoes of Harmony' in collaboration with Zola Zolu Gallery, showcasing works by Indonesian artists Sutopo and I Ketut Marra. The exhibition explores the relationship between humans, nature, and culture through the distinct styles of the two artists. The hotel brand views this initiative as part of its broader mission to support Indonesia's creative economy by providing a platform and commercial support for local artists.

First Indonesian Army Officer Graduates from Jordan's Royal National Defence College

Colonel Inf. Achmad Fikri Dalimunthe has become the first Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) officer to complete the strategic defence programme at the Royal Jordanian National Defence College (RJNDC), earning a Master's degree with distinction. His achievement is expected to strengthen bilateral military and educational ties between Indonesia and Jordan. The year-long course covered national security, geopolitics, and strategic decision-making.

Differences Between Saltwater and Freshwater Crocodiles According to IPB Expert

A professor from IPB University explains the key differences between saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) and freshwater Siamese crocodiles (Crocodylus siamensis) in Indonesia. The saltwater crocodile is territorial and aggressive, inhabiting coastal areas, while the freshwater species is more timid and critically endangered. The expert emphasises the vital role of captive breeding in conserving these protected species.

Viral: Ride-Hailing Driver Takes Passenger Across Railway Bridge in Petamburan, Residents Speak Out

A ride-hailing motorcyclist has gone viral for dangerously crossing a railway bridge in Petamburan, Central Jakarta, a route not intended for motor vehicles. Local crossing guards report frequent reckless behaviour by motorists, often locals who ignore warnings, raising serious safety concerns due to limited visibility of approaching trains. The incident highlights ongoing risks at informal railway crossings in the capital.

Chronology of Students Storming and Chasing Nusron-Budiman at UGM

A public discussion at Gadjah Mada University featuring Minister Nusron Wahid and other officials was disrupted by hundreds of students protesting land policies and perceived political betrayal. The event escalated into a chase across the campus, with officials eventually evacuated by security. Both Sudaryono and Budiman Sudjatmiko later apologised for the incident, reaffirming the government's openness to dialogue and criticism.

Rosan Explains Danantara's Unreleased Financial Report

Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani has clarified that the sovereign wealth fund's financial report remains unpublished as it is still consolidating accounts from over 1,000 companies. He stated that the unaudited data has been submitted to the Audit Board of Indonesia and is already shared with prospective investors during promotional activities. The consolidated report is expected to be released after all state-owned enterprises complete their shareholder meetings by the end of June.

BMKG Reveals M 6.7 Palu Earthquake Was Shallow, Triggered by Active Fault

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck southeast of Palu, Central Sulawesi, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) classified it as a shallow quake triggered by an active fault with an oblique normal movement mechanism. No tsunami potential was detected, but strong shaking was felt across several regencies, with damage reports yet to emerge.

Two Bangunkerto Village Officials in Sleman Dismissed Over Alleged Corruption

Two village officials in Bangunkerto, Sleman, have been removed from their posts following an initial audit that uncovered indications of budget misappropriation. The Inspectorate has recommended further investigation into the exact amount of funds allegedly embezzled by more than one suspect. The case gained public attention after residents displayed protest banners demanding a thorough investigation into corruption within the village administration.

Missing for Three Years, Bandung Woman Found with Severe Injuries, Blind and Unable to Speak

A 29-year-old woman from Bandung, missing for three years, has been found in hospital with severe head and facial injuries that have left her blind and with speech difficulties. Police suspect she was abducted and tortured by a male acquaintance during her disappearance. The case has been reported to the West Java Regional Police, who are investigating the alleged prolonged abuse involving blunt and sharp weapons.

Indonesia Aims to Reduce Internet Connectivity Dependence on Singapore

Indonesia is seeking to lessen its heavy reliance on Singapore for internet traffic, as approximately 90% of its data currently routes through the city-state. The government advocates building more diverse submarine and terrestrial cable networks to mitigate risks associated with this concentration. Experts acknowledge the challenge due to high investment costs and Singapore's established role as a regional digital hub.

PSI Hits Back at PDIP Over Cadre Poaching Allegations: Panic and Fear

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has dismissed accusations from PDIP politician Deddy Sitorus that it is actively poaching cadres from other parties, calling the claims a reflection of PDIP's panic and fear. PSI's Bestari Barus suggested PDIP should focus on political outreach rather than obsessing over former President Jokowi. He also denied any coercion in his own move from NasDem to PSI, stating he had informed both Jokowi and NasDem chairman Surya Paloh.

PBNU Sets Islamic New Year 1448 H on Wednesday 17 June, Differing from Government

Indonesia's largest Muslim organisation, Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), has officially declared 1 Muharram 1448 H to fall on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, after its moon-sighting efforts failed across the country. This decision diverges from the government's calendar, which had set the Islamic New Year a day earlier on Tuesday, 16 June. PBNU applied the 'istikmal' method, completing the preceding month to 30 days due to the absence of a visible crescent moon.

Is Tomorrow, 17 June, Still a Holiday? Check the Official Rules

The Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah national holiday falls on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, with no accompanying collective leave day. Consequently, Wednesday, 17 June 2026, is a normal working day, and public activities will resume as usual.

Shallow Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake Shakes Palu, No Tsunami Threat

A shallow tectonic earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck 42 kilometres southeast of Palu, Central Sulawesi, on Tuesday morning. The tremor, which originated from an active fault at a depth of 10 kilometres, was strongly felt in Palu and Sigi but did not pose a tsunami risk. Authorities have received reports of damage from the affected areas.

APPBI DKI records 10 per cent drop in mall visits due to weak purchasing power

The Jakarta chapter of the Indonesian Shopping Centre Management Association (APPBI) reports a roughly 10 per cent decline in mall footfall after the 2026 Eid holiday, attributing the drop to weakened consumer purchasing power. In response, the association has launched the Festival Jakarta Great Sale 2026, involving 104 shopping centres and MSMEs, to stimulate spending through discounts and promotions. The initiative, which runs until 22 July, targets Rp16 trillion in transactions and is supported by provincial tax incentives.

How Gesit Central Waste Bank Turns Rubbish into Income for Jakarta Residents

The Gesit Central Waste Bank (BSI Gesit) in South Jakarta is helping residents earn money by aggregating and selling sorted inorganic waste to recycling industries. Founded in 2014 to solve common problems faced by local waste banks, it now collaborates with 150 units and partners like BRI and PNM to streamline operations. The initiative also supports Jakarta's upcoming ban on open dumping at Bantargebang by 2026.

Ngabean Residents in Temanggung Preserve the Bersih Punden Sumur Blandung Tradition

Residents of Ngabean Hamlet in Temanggung, Central Java, have upheld the annual Bersih Punden Sumur Blandung ritual to mark the Islamic New Year 1448. The tradition involves communal cleaning of a historically and spiritually significant well, followed by a thanksgiving feast. Elders emphasise the event's role in fostering social cohesion, expressing gratitude, and transmitting values of mutual cooperation to younger generations.

Belawan Immigration Deports Malaysian Citizen for Illegal Entry

The Belawan Immigration Office in North Sumatra has deported a Malaysian citizen identified as MM for entering Indonesia without official documents and bypassing immigration checkpoints. The individual was also placed on a blacklist to prevent future re-entry. The action underscores the Directorate General of Immigration's commitment to enforcing national sovereignty and immigration laws.

UPI Bandung Science Education Lecturers Collaborate with Sumedang MGMP on IoT Training

Lecturers from Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) Bandung conducted a three-day workshop for junior high school science teachers in Sumedang Regency, focusing on integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technology with STEM and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) principles. The training, held at SMPN 7 Sumedang, aimed to enhance teacher competencies in delivering innovative science education aligned with digital acceleration. Participants were encouraged to apply a four-level training model, culminating in a classroom implementation session.

Viral Waste Pile-Up at Tanah Baru TPS, Depok Environmental Agency Clears It in Stages

A viral video showing a massive pile of rubbish at the Tanah Baru temporary disposal site in Depok has prompted a response from the city's Environmental and Sanitation Agency. The agency cited limited fleets, high waste volumes, and insufficient site capacity as the main causes for the recurring problem. They have since cleared the site and are working on systemic improvements, including encouraging residents to sort organic waste.

BP BUMN: Downstreaming of Natural Resources and MSMEs are Priority Sectors for Himbara

The Supervisory Board for State-Owned Enterprises (BP BUMN) has directed state-owned banks (Himbara) to prioritise financing for manufacturing, natural resource downstreaming, infrastructure, and MSME empowerment. The move aims to channel credit into productive sectors that create jobs and boost national competitiveness. BP BUMN emphasised that strong synergy between shareholders, commissioners, and management is essential to strengthen banking intermediation and support national development targets.

Palu Earthquake M6.7 Has No Tsunami Potential, BMKG Advises Residents

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck southeast of Palu, Central Sulawesi, on Tuesday morning, but authorities confirmed there is no tsunami threat. The shallow quake, caused by active fault activity, was strongly felt in Palu and surrounding areas, with nine aftershocks recorded. Residents have been urged to remain calm and inspect buildings for structural damage before re-entering.

China, Myanmar pursue deeper ties as leaders hold talks in Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Myanmar's military leader Min Aung Hlaing met in Beijing to strengthen bilateral relations, with both leaders witnessing the signing of unspecified cooperation documents. The visit, Min Aung Hlaing's second meeting with Xi in less than a year, underscores China's role as a key foreign partner for Myanmar's junta amid ongoing domestic conflict. Beijing has expressed support for Myanmar's efforts to restore stability and continues to invest in strategic Belt and Road Initiative projects in the country.

House Member Urges Firm Action Against Gambling Dens Masquerading as 'Timezone' Arcades

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on law enforcement to take decisive action against gambling operators using children's arcades as a front in North and West Jakarta. The legislator emphasised that the new Criminal Code provides a strong legal basis for prosecuting organisers, with penalties of up to nine years in prison. The appeal follows recent police raids on two such locations, where over 60 individuals were detained and 134 gambling machines seized.

M 6.7 Earthquake Shakes Palu and Surroundings, BMKG Reveals Epicentre on Land

A shallow tectonic earthquake of magnitude 6.7 struck southeast of Palu, Central Sulawesi, on Tuesday morning. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the epicentre was on land at a depth of 10 kilometres and that there was no tsunami potential. An aftershock was detected three minutes after the main tremor.

Anti-Corruption Efforts Deemed Ineffective if Focused Only on Perpetrators, System Must Be Reformed

Legal and political observer Pieter C. Zulkifli argues that Indonesia's anti-corruption drive will not achieve significant results if it solely targets individual perpetrators. He contends that the underlying political-economic system, which enables the persistent abuse of power, must be reformed. Zulkifli also noted that public trust in the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has eroded due to perceptions of uneven enforcement.

Depraved: Father in Karawang Rapes His Three-Year-Old Daughter

A 37-year-old man in Karawang, West Java, has been arrested for the rape of his three-year-old biological daughter. The crime came to light after the family noticed the child was in pain and found suspicious fluid on her body, prompting a medical examination. Police have detained the suspect and are providing legal, social, and psychological protection for the victim.

North Sumatra Bans Civil Servants and Regional-Owned Enterprise Employees from Using Vapes

The North Sumatra provincial government has issued a ban on electronic cigarettes for all civil servants (ASN) and employees of regional-owned enterprises (BUMD), citing risks of drug abuse and long-term health impacts. The policy, based on findings from the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), warns that vapes are susceptible to being used as a medium for distributing liquid narcotics. Local governments are instructed to enforce strict monitoring, impose disciplinary sanctions on violators, and encourage a wider ban across community organisations, tourism businesses, and transport companies.

Worker Protection Run 2026 Voices Safeguards for Workers

The Worker Protection Run 2026 in Bantul, Yogyakarta, drew 1,037 participants to promote social security and worker protection through a 5K fun run. Organised by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, the event combined fitness with a campaign to raise awareness about employment social insurance. Officials highlighted the initiative as a collaborative effort to build a healthy, productive, and protected workforce culture in Indonesia.

Coal Prices Plunge 5% as US-Iran Peace Deal Eases Supply Fears

Global coal prices fell sharply by 5.52% to US$137 per tonne, retreating from near two-year highs, as a potential US-Iran peace agreement reduced geopolitical risk premiums on energy supplies. The prospect of normalised shipping through the Strait of Hormuz eased fears of LNG disruptions, diminishing the recent surge in demand for alternative fuels like coal. However, seasonal summer electricity demand in Asia and supply-side constraints from Indonesia and China are expected to limit further price declines.

Constitutional Court Hearing: Free Nutritious Meals Trigger Mass Layoffs of PPPK Teachers and Disrupt Class Hours

A Constitutional Court hearing has revealed that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is causing mass layoffs of government-contracted teachers and severely disrupting classroom learning. Testimony from a teacher advocate highlighted that regional governments are not renewing PPPK contracts, with 39 teachers in Tuban alone affected, while many others report reduced salaries and increased administrative burdens. The court is reviewing multiple challenges against the 2026 state budget law, which classifies MBG as an education expenditure.

UGM Lecturer Highlights Seat Distribution in Election Law Revision

A political science lecturer from Gadjah Mada University has raised concerns over the distribution of parliamentary seats based on population size in the proposed revision of Indonesia's Election Law. He argues that the current method creates disparities in vote value and calls for a balanced electoral district magnitude to ensure both fair representation and close accountability between representatives and constituents.

Jasamarga to Repair Cipularang and Padaleunyi Toll Roads

State-owned toll road operator Jasa Marga will carry out pavement reconstruction and resurfacing works on the Cipularang and Padaleunyi toll roads from 17 to 20 June 2026. The maintenance aims to ensure driver safety and comfort while preserving the reliability of these strategic corridors linking economic and tourism centres. Lane closures will be in effect at multiple points, though other lanes will remain open to traffic.

Man in North Lombok Drowns Himself at Sea, Allegedly Driven by Online Gambling Debts

A 58-year-old man in North Lombok, NTB, was found dead on a beach with a 25-kilogram sandbag tied to his waist, in what police suspect was a suicide driven by economic and psychological pressure from online gambling debts. The body was discovered by a local fisherman, and a medical examination indicated drowning as the cause of death, with no signs of foul play. The family has accepted the incident as a tragedy and declined an autopsy.

Wheelchair and Bed-Bound Patients Evacuated from Samaritan Hospital During 6.7M Palu Earthquake

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Palu, Central Sulawesi, causing panic among residents and hospital patients. Staff at Samaritan Hospital evacuated patients using wheelchairs and beds to open areas as a precaution against aftershocks. The tremor was felt strongly across several regencies but did not trigger a tsunami warning.

Police Traffic Corps Director Affirms Only Polri Has Authority to Issue Driving Licences

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has issued a stern warning that it is the sole institution legally authorised to issue driving licences (SIM) in the country. The statement aims to protect the public from misleading offers and potential forgery by entities operating outside official mechanisms. The authority is explicitly mandated under Law Number 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation.