Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 June 2026

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Australian Police Investigate Alleged Rape and Torture of Gaza Aid Activists by Israeli Forces

The Australian Federal Police have launched an investigation into claims that Israeli forces raped and tortured humanitarian activists detained while attempting to deliver aid to Gaza by sea. The probe follows a meeting between four female activists, Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and senior officials, with Wong reportedly believing the allegations and urging Israel to conduct a transparent inquiry.

KPK Requests Data on Three Corporate Suspects During Examination of ESDM Director

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has requested production data from the Director of Coal Business Development at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources as part of an investigation into three corporate suspects. The inquiry focuses on alleged gratuities linked to coal production in Kutai Kartanegara, East Kalimantan, and involves verifying non-tax state revenue (PNBP) from hauling and jetty usage. The case extends from the 2017 conviction of the former Kutai Kartanegara regent for accepting bribes related to palm oil permits and subsequent money laundering charges.

DPR Commission I Welcomes US-Iran Peace: Potential to Lower Oil Prices and Inflation

Wakil Ketua Komisi I DPR Sukamta has welcomed the peace agreement between the United States and Iran, highlighting its potential to stabilise global energy supplies and reduce inflationary pressures on Indonesia. He noted that easing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz could lower world oil prices and logistics costs, while cautioning that sustained diplomacy is needed for lasting stability. Sukamta also urged the Indonesian government to use this momentum to strengthen national energy resilience amid global geopolitical uncertainty.

AI Technology Reveals Secrets of 1,000-Year-Old Wooden Pagoda, Astonishing the World

A new immersive digital experience using artificial intelligence allows visitors to explore the hidden upper floors of China's Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, which have been closed to the public for over a decade due to conservation concerns. The project recreates the nearly millennium-old structure's interior with high-fidelity visuals, offering a solution to the dilemma between heritage preservation and public access. The technology provides unprecedented close-up views of the pagoda's architectural details, historical plaques, and ancient statues.

AI Unlocks the 1,000-Year-Old Secrets of China's Oldest Wooden Pagoda Interior

The interior of the Yingxian Wooden Pagoda in Shanxi Province, China, which has been closed to the public for over a decade due to conservation concerns, can now be explored virtually. A new immersive digital experience uses AI and CAVE screen technology to recreate the pagoda's hidden upper floors in realistic detail. This project resolves the dilemma between preserving the nearly 1,000-year-old leaning structure and satisfying public curiosity about its ancient Buddhist art and architecture.

Hoax! ESDM Ministry Spokesperson Asks Public to Use Diesel Because Pertamax Price Rises

A social media post falsely claimed that a spokesperson for Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) advised the public to switch to diesel fuel following a Pertamax price increase. An investigation found no such statement was ever made; the spokesperson had merely explained that Pertamax is a non-subsidised fuel whose price follows market mechanisms. The claim has been officially rated as a hoax.

Hoax! Article claiming Dadan Hindayana said Jokowi received Rp2 trillion MBG bribe

A manipulated screenshot circulating on social media falsely claims former National Nutrition Agency head Dadan Hindayana accused ex-President Joko Widodo of accepting a Rp2 trillion bribe in the free nutritious meal programme corruption case. The original article reported only on the detention of Hindayana and two former deputies by the Attorney General's Office, with no mention of Jokowi or any bribe. The claim has been debunked as a hoax.

Gold Prices at Pegadaian Galeri 24, UBS and Antam All Rise on 16 June 2026

Gold bullion prices across all major brands sold at Pegadaian's Galeri 24 increased on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. The price of 1 gram of Antam gold rose to Rp2,839,000, while Galeri 24 and UBS brands also recorded gains. The report details the latest selling and buyback prices for various gold weights.

Students Storm Discussion with Officials at UGM, Brief Chase Ensues

Hundreds of students disrupted a public discussion at Gadjah Mada University featuring three government officials, leading to heated exchanges and a brief chase. Student representatives claimed the protest was against a government they accuse of suppressing criticism and wasting public funds, while Deputy Minister Sudaryono stated they had come to engage in open dialogue but were forced to leave when the situation became unsafe.

The Middle East's Lifeline is Drying Up: A Prophetic Warning and a Looming Catastrophe

The Euphrates-Tigris river system, the historic cradle of civilisation, is facing an unprecedented ecological collapse, with projections indicating it could run dry by 2040. This environmental crisis, which eerily echoes a 1,400-year-old prophetic warning, threatens the water supply, agriculture, and energy needs of 60 million people across Turkey, Syria, and Iraq. Experts warn the rapid depletion could trigger a massive humanitarian disaster and ignite new geopolitical conflicts over dwindling water resources.

France vs Senegal: 2002 Memories Shroud Former Coloniser vs Colony Clash

The upcoming World Cup match between France and Senegal is steeped in historical and emotional significance, recalling Senegal's shock victory over the then-world champions in their 2002 debut. Both squads feature deep cultural and demographic ties, with ten Senegalese players born in France and ten French players of African descent. The encounter highlights the complex post-colonial relationship between the two nations, extending beyond football into shared language and migration patterns.

Deputy Minister Sudaryono Speaks Out After Discussion Halted at UGM

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono has detailed his account of a disrupted discussion at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), claiming a minority of attendees forced the event's cancellation despite his willingness for open dialogue. He refuted allegations of avoiding debate, stating he even sat on the asphalt outside to continue engaging with students after his car was blocked. The incident involved water throwing and alleged physical contact, with student protesters criticising government policies on land issues and wasteful spending.

Hoax! Japan invites Indonesians to switch citizenship, promises jobs with Rp27 million monthly salary

A social media post falsely claimed Japan is inviting Indonesian citizens to change their nationality in exchange for guaranteed jobs paying Rp27 million per month. The post misused a photo of President Prabowo Subianto meeting Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to support the fabricated narrative. Official sources confirm no such offer exists, although Japan does recruit foreign workers to address its ageing population and labour shortages.

Three Indonesian Domestic Workers in Malaysia Allegedly Abused, Abandoned by Employer; Only Dared to Report After a Year

Three Indonesian domestic workers in Johor, Malaysia, have reported alleged abuse by their employer after enduring a year of mistreatment. The victims, who were employed through non-procedural channels and had their passports withheld, were eventually abandoned by their employer. The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru is now providing protection and coordinating with local police, who have arrested four suspects.

Hoax: New banknote featuring President Prabowo and Vice President Gibran

A social media post falsely claimed Bank Indonesia would issue a new Rp18,000 banknote featuring President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. Official sources confirm no such denomination exists, and the current legal tender remains the 2022 emission series. The claim is categorised as a hoax.

IHSG Surges Over 4% as US-Iran Peace Deal and Fiscal Efficiency Boost Market

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) rallied more than 4% on Monday, driven by a combination of easing geopolitical tensions and improving domestic fiscal sentiment. A peace agreement between the US and Iran calmed global markets, while investors reacted positively to Indonesia's internal policy shifts, including a surprise BI rate hike and the government's move to streamline costly flagship programmes.

State Seizes Assets of Legendary Fugitive Eddy Tansil Worth Rp 51.6 Billion

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has handed over Rp 51.6 billion in traced assets belonging to notorious corruption convict and fugitive Eddy Tansil to the state treasury. Tansil, who escaped from prison in 1996 after being convicted of embezzling hundreds of millions of dollars through Bank Bapindo, remains at large, with his last reported sighting in China in 2011. The Finance Minister praised the asset recovery as an extraordinary achievement, emphasising that the state will continue to pursue those who cause it financial loss.

Global Gold Prices Surge Again, Market Awaits the Fed

Global gold prices extended their rally for a third consecutive day, buoyed by easing geopolitical tensions after a reported peace framework between the US and Iran. Market attention has now shifted to the upcoming Federal Reserve policy meeting, where signals on future interest rate moves will be crucial for determining the precious metal's short-term trajectory.

Beware of Parasites in Raw Fish: Lessons from the Sashimi Case in Hong Kong

A viral video of a parasite in sashimi in Hong Kong has prompted an IPB University lecturer to issue a warning about the health risks of consuming raw fish. She outlines the necessary freezing standards and restaurant responsibilities to kill parasites, while also emphasising the importance of public sanitation to prevent ecosystem contamination. Vulnerable groups are advised to avoid raw fish dishes altogether.

Students Reveal Reasons for Confronting Budiman and Officials at UGM

Students at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) disrupted a discussion forum attended by government officials, including poverty alleviation head Budiman Sudjatmiko, accusing them of hypocrisy and dishonesty. The students claimed the officials were unworthy of speaking about Pancasila while the government silences public criticism and implements ineffective programmes. Deputy Minister Sudaryono later apologised for the incident, insisting the officials had come to engage in open dialogue.

Megawati Criticises Bullying, Questions Whether Pancasila Is Just 'On Paper'

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri has expressed deep concern over rising bullying cases in schools, questioning whether the nation's foundational ideology, Pancasila, is merely a written doctrine rather than a lived reality. She also urged regional leaders to implement her 2021 directive on food diversification to strengthen national food security.

Tens of Thousands Flock to Closing of 31st NTB MTQ in Central Lombok

Tens of thousands of residents gathered in Praya, Central Lombok, for the closing ceremony of the 31st Nusa Tenggara Barat Provincial Qur'an Recitation Competition (MTQ). The event, which ran from 9 June, was praised by the Vice Governor for fostering Qur'anic brotherhood and maintaining a secure atmosphere. The provincial government expressed optimism about hosting the national MTQ again in the future.

Five Ships Successfully Pass Through Strait of Hormuz Blockade

Shipping activity has resumed in the Strait of Hormuz after the US and Iran reached a peace agreement, with five vessels reported to have safely transited the previously blockaded waterway. The reopening of this critical energy chokepoint is expected to stabilise global oil prices and ease economic turmoil. A formal peace deal is set to be signed in Switzerland on Friday, though Iranian officials remain cautious about US compliance.

Bali Tourists Issued With Heatstroke Warnings Especially In Children

Tourists in Bali are being warned about the heightened risk of heatstroke, particularly for children, as the dry season brings scorching temperatures. A medical expert from Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta explained that children are more vulnerable due to their developing temperature regulation and urged parents to recognise early symptoms. The warning follows forecasts of a severe El Niño year, which is expected to intensify extreme heat across Indonesia.

Safety and Sustainability Top Priority For Bali This Peak Season

Bali tourism officials are coordinating with police and emergency services to ensure visitor safety during the upcoming school holiday peak season, anticipating over 65,000 daily air arrivals. The provincial government is also reinforcing sustainability measures, including single-use plastic restrictions, mandatory waste sorting, and encouraging hotels to adopt renewable energy like solar power.

Deputy Minister Clarifies Viral UGM Discussion Incident, Denies Fleeing

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono has refuted claims that he and other officials fled a disrupted discussion at Gadjah Mada University, asserting they remained to engage with students despite provocations. He explained that a minority of attendees caused chaos with loudspeakers and sirens, leading to water being thrown and an alleged physical assault. Sudaryono emphasised the government's commitment to open dialogue and democracy, even offering to personally verify student grievances regarding land issues.

Top Bali Museum Receives International Award For Outstanding Tourist Experiences

The Pasifika Museum in Nusa Dua, Bali, has been awarded the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best 2026, placing it among the top 1% of attractions worldwide. The museum, which houses over 600 artworks from across the Asia Pacific, was praised by Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism as a must-visit cultural destination. The award underscores Bali’s continued prominence in offering world-class cultural tourism experiences.

Password Stealer Attacks Surge 18% in Southeast Asia

Cyber attacks using password-stealing malware against businesses in Southeast Asia have risen by 18% in 2025, with over 1 million attempts blocked. Indonesia recorded 234,615 blocked attacks, highlighting the growing threat of credential theft as a gateway to financial crime and further network infiltration.

Jazz Gunung Slamet Returns to Baturraden, Boosting Local Economy and Culture

The BRI Jazz Gunung Slamet festival is set to take place at Wanawisata Baturraden, Banyumas, with VIP tickets already sold out. Organisers emphasise the event's role in building a community-based cultural and economic ecosystem, extending benefits to local businesses and promoting regional tourism. The festival will feature unique attractions such as a durian village to showcase local culinary heritage.

Deputy Minister Sudaryono Clarifies UGM Discussion Incident: We Came to Dialogue, Not to Flee

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono has clarified the disruption of a discussion at Universitas Gadjah Mada, asserting that he and other officials attended with the intention of open dialogue. The event was cut short after a group allegedly threw water and became physical, but Sudaryono denied fleeing, stating they later sat on the ground to continue discussions. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to democratic engagement and invited further dialogue on agrarian issues.

Observing the Ka'bah Kiswah Replacement Tradition to Welcome 1 Muharram

The annual replacement of the Ka'bah's kiswah in Mecca marks the Islamic New Year 1448 H, symbolising spiritual renewal and purification. The ceremony, which shifted from 9 Zulhijah to 1 Muharram by decree of King Salman in 2022, involves draping the sacred structure with a new black silk cloth embroidered with gold and silver Quranic verses. Indonesian Hajj official Erti Herlina highlighted the ritual's significance in maintaining the Ka'bah's sanctity and inspiring Muslims to leave past mistakes behind for a better future.

PSI-PDIP Feud Over Jokowi Lengthens

The war of words between the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) and the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) over former President Joko Widodo has intensified. PSI claims Jokowi will soon don the party's jacket, signalling his departure from PDIP, while PDIP insists he was expelled in December 2024 for constitutional violations. The exchange has devolved into personal barbs, with PSI accusing PDIP of being deeply hurt by his exit and PDIP retorting that it has already forgotten him.

Protesters Storm Son-in-Law of US President's Project, Tear Down Iron and Barbed Wire Fences

Around 200 protesters in Albania violently tore down fences at a luxury resort construction site backed by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former US President Donald Trump. Locals claim the development encroaches on a protected coastal conservation area and that their ancestral lands were seized without fair compensation. The unrest highlights tensions between government-backed foreign investment and indigenous land rights.

US Vice President JD Vance Says Nuclear Inspectors Will Return to Iran

US Vice President JD Vance has stated that international nuclear inspectors will be allowed back into Iran as part of a peace agreement with Washington. The deal reportedly includes US and IAEA assistance in dismantling Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpile, though specific details remain undisclosed. Meanwhile, President Trump has denied reports of a proposed $300 billion investment fund for Iran and reiterated that Tehran will never be permitted to possess nuclear weapons.

President Prabowo Summons Dony Oskaria and Economic Ministers to Accelerate Strategic Investment

President Prabowo Subianto has called upon Head of BP BUMN Dony Oskaria and his economic ministers to discuss the growing global investor interest in Indonesia. The meeting focused on ensuring strategic investment opportunities are swiftly realised and communicated transparently to the public. The government aims to strengthen coordination and maintain a conducive business climate to boost national competitiveness and sustainable development.

US-Iran Peace Deal Paves Way for Regional Stability

A breakthrough peace agreement between the United States and Iran, brokered with help from Pakistan, has halted hostilities and opened negotiations on nuclear activities, sanctions, and Hormuz Strait security. The international community, including the UN, has welcomed the deal as a vital step towards de-escalation and lasting peace. Analysts caution that deep mutual distrust and unresolved technical issues mean the forthcoming 60-day negotiation phase will be the true test of whether this memorandum can lead to a permanent settlement.

Deputy Minister Sudaryono Denies Fleeing Heated UGM Discussion, Claims Physical Assault

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono reported being struck and having water thrown at him during a student discussion forum at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) on Monday evening. The minister refuted accusations that he fled the scene to avoid questions, insisting he and Minister Nusron Wahid exited only after security advised them to leave due to escalating physical altercations. Sudaryono emphasized they later returned to the road and sat on the asphalt to continue the dialogue after their car was blocked.

Red Chilli Prices Hit Rp75,750 per Kg, Eggs at Rp30,350 on 16 June 2026

Staple food prices in Indonesia have surged, with red chillies reaching Rp75,750 per kilogram and eggs at Rp30,350 per kilogram as of 16 June 2026. The increases, recorded by the National Strategic Food Price Information Centre, are raising concerns about food inflation. Other commodities such as beef, rice, and cooking oil also remain at elevated levels.

After US-Iran MoU Announced, the Toughest Challenges Just Begin

A newly announced memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran, set to be signed in Geneva, represents the most significant diplomatic opening in the war-torn Middle East in months. The agreement signals that even long-standing adversaries can choose engagement over escalation. However, history suggests that implementing the deal will be far more difficult than reaching it, with deep mistrust and complex issues such as sanctions relief and nuclear verification still unresolved.

National Nutrition Agency to Refocus Free Meal Programme Beneficiaries

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) plans to restructure the beneficiaries of its free nutritious meal programme (MBG) to improve targeting and achieve budget efficiency. The refocusing includes removing senior high school students from affluent families, potentially reducing recipients by 8 million. The agency is also evaluating its meal service units and will use school holidays to overhaul data and kitchen operations.

Chandra Asri Seen as More Attractive to Global Investors After Free Float Rises to 25.7%

PT Chandra Asri Pacific's increased free float to 25.7% is expected to boost its appeal to global institutional investors by improving trading liquidity. The petrochemical firm has transformed into an integrated energy, chemicals, and infrastructure platform, with its recent acquisition of Shell's Singapore assets significantly diversifying revenue. Analysts highlight the company's record first-quarter 2026 profits and ongoing expansion projects, including a new chlor-alkali facility in Cilegon, as reinforcing its strategic importance in Indonesia's industrial sector.

Puskesmas No Longer Just a Place for the Sick

Indonesia's primary healthcare system is undergoing a major transformation, shifting its focus from curative treatment to prevention and early detection. The revitalisation of puskesmas (community health centres) and the launch of a nationwide free health screening programme have already identified widespread undiagnosed chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes. This shift aims to create a more integrated and sustainable health system that intervenes before illness develops.

Trump Denies US Preparing Rp4,900 Trillion Investment Fund for Iran

US President Donald Trump has refuted a Financial Times report claiming Washington is considering a $300 billion investment fund for Iran as part of a broader peace deal. The proposed fund, reportedly sourced from private investors, was said to be contingent on a final nuclear agreement and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The denial highlights the political sensitivity of offering financial incentives to Tehran.

Understanding the Symbols of the Galungan and Kuningan Celebrations and Their Meanings

The article explores the rich symbolism behind the Balinese Hindu festivals of Galungan and Kuningan, which celebrate the triumph of good over evil. It details the philosophical and spiritual meanings of key ritual objects, from the penjor bamboo poles to the offerings and woven decorations, highlighting their role in expressing gratitude and maintaining cosmic harmony.

Deputy Minister Denies Fleeing UGM Discussion, Insists on Commitment to Dialogue

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono has refuted accusations that he fled a heated discussion with students at Gadjah Mada University, stating the event was a pre-planned dialogue approved by the campus. He explained that the forum was disrupted by a group demanding it be stopped, and security advised him to leave after incidents including a thrown water bottle and an alleged physical assault. Sudaryono emphasised that he and another minister later sat on the ground outside to continue the dialogue with students.

Government Accelerates Deregulation and Downstreaming to Pursue Market Confidence

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi outlined the government's strategy to restore market confidence amid geopolitical challenges, emphasising deregulation, export performance, and downstream industrialisation. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the head of Danantara and Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani to boost exports to support the rupiah, while accelerating permit simplification to foster a more competitive investment climate. The government views stability as the paramount factor in maintaining a favourable business environment and calls for collective effort from all economic actors.

Not Arabia: The World's Largest Wild Camel Population Is Found Near Indonesia

Australia, Indonesia's southern neighbour, officially holds the record for the largest population of wild camels on Earth. Introduced during the 19th century for colonial infrastructure projects, the animals were released into the outback and have since multiplied explosively, triggering significant environmental and water crises.

Forbidden Love Affair Revealed as Motive Behind Attempted Kidnapping of Elderly Man in PIK

Police have uncovered that a failed kidnapping of a 70-year-old man in Pantai Indah Kapuk, North Jakarta, was orchestrated by his daughter's boyfriend. The suspect, a trader, sought revenge after the victim disapproved of the relationship because the suitor already had a wife and child. The two perpetrators have been arrested and charged under the new Criminal Code.

Protesters at Central Java Governor's Office Chant 'Reformasi'

Demonstrators gathered outside the Central Java Governor's office in Semarang, repeatedly chanting 'Reformasi' to protest the government's handling of the economic crisis. The student-led rally criticised various government projects and demanded accountability for the weakening rupiah. The protest concluded peacefully in the evening after a brief incident where demonstrators burned props.

Indonesia Vows to Protect Citizen Abused in Malaysia Despite Illegal Migrant Worker Status

Minister of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) Mukhtarudin has assured that the government will provide full protection and legal aid to an Indonesian female worker abused by her employer in Malaysia, even though she was working illegally. The victim is currently under the care of Indonesian representatives while legal proceedings take place in Malaysia. The government also plans to facilitate her return home and is using the case to remind citizens to use official channels for overseas employment.