Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 June 2026

Showing 151-200 of 970 articles

Police Investigate Smash-and-Grab Car Theft at Ciputat Coffee Shop

Police in South Tangerang are investigating a car break-in at a Ciputat coffee shop that went viral on social media. The victim lost a bag after the left window was smashed, and authorities noted the parking area lacked CCTV surveillance. Police have also clarified that an initial report was not rejected but redirected to the appropriate precinct for criminal investigation.

Qatar Mediates as Iran-US MoU Accelerates Amid Hormuz Strait Tensions

Qatar is pushing for a swift implementation of a newly brokered memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States, hoping it will secure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for its LNG exports. While US Vice President Vance insists the deal includes strict nuclear oversight and uranium stockpile destruction, Iran maintains that detailed nuclear talks will only proceed after the initial agreement is signed. The peace deal, first announced by Pakistan's prime minister, aims for an immediate and permanent cessation of hostilities across all fronts.

Strategy for Building an Inclusive Financial Ecosystem in Indonesia

Indonesia faces a significant gap between high financial inclusion and low financial literacy, prompting calls for a more holistic ecosystem. At a recent forum, government officials and industry leaders stressed the need for targeted education, infrastructure, and simple product design to empower grassroots communities, particularly women. The discussion highlighted that connectivity and financial health are as critical as access to formal accounts.

KP2MI Ensures Assistance for Indonesian Migrant Workers Involved in Taiwan Incident

Indonesia's Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection (KP2MI) is coordinating with authorities in Taiwan following an incident involving seven Indonesian workers in Taichung. Six of the detained workers were identified as 'missing workers' and one as an overstayer, with local investigations ongoing. The ministry has pledged to provide consular access and legal assistance while urging all migrant workers to adhere strictly to immigration and employment laws abroad.

Islamic New Year a Momentum for Muslim Awakening to Face Global Challenges, Says Religious Affairs Special Staff

A special staff member to Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs has called on Muslims to use the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah as a catalyst for renewal, urging a shift from nostalgic reverence for past glories towards active innovation and global contribution. Gugun Gumilar emphasised that Islamic values must be expressed through tangible actions that benefit wider society, integrating spirituality with science and creativity. He also warned against sectarian fanaticism, advocating for unity and collaboration to build national and global civilisation.

BGN Assures Public Can Closely Monitor Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens: 'We Will Make It as Transparent as Possible'

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has pledged to make the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme fully transparent, allowing public access and oversight of its kitchen operations. The agency is currently evaluating the programme's governance, including a potential reduction in beneficiaries to save state funds, with high school students and those from affluent backgrounds likely to be removed from the list. The BGN is consulting with the Ministry of Health to focus nutritional interventions on the most critical early childhood development stages.

BPBD Magetan Records 500 Hikers for Sura Ritual on Mount Lawu

The Magetan Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has recorded over 500 hikers ascending Mount Lawu for the traditional Javanese New Year's Eve ritual, known as tirakatan Sura. Authorities have deployed a joint security team to ensure safety and enforce conservation rules during the peak period from 14 to 18 June 2026. Police have urged visitors to maintain order and respect the environment during the spiritual pilgrimage.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Meets Indian Ambassador to Discuss PM Modi's Visit Plan

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya met with India's Ambassador to Indonesia, Shri Sandeep Chakravorty, to discuss bilateral cooperation and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned visit in mid-2026. The visit is expected to serve as a milestone in strengthening the 76-year partnership between the two nations. It follows President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to India in January 2025, where he was the chief guest at India's 76th Republic Day celebrations.

Free Nutritious Meals Programme Is a Human Rights Obligation, Minister Says

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai argues that the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is a fulfilment of the state's obligation to guarantee the right to food, not a potential human rights violation. He emphasised that the ongoing initiative should be subject to evaluation and quality control rather than being labelled a violation during its implementation phase. The programme aligns with constitutional mandates and international frameworks linking food security to sustainable development goals.

PSI Affirms Jokowi's Regional Visits Are Not Political Safaris

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has clarified that former President Joko Widodo's recent visits to various regions are not political safaris, but rather responses to public invitations. Deputy Chair Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka stated the visits are part of Jokowi fulfilling community requests, including PSI activities. The party is currently focused on strengthening its internal structure ahead of the 2027 election verification process.

Narabahasa's 'Pesta Receh' Celebrates Launch of Recehan Bahasa #2

Narabahasa launched its latest book, 'Recehan Bahasa #2', at a community event in Jakarta, aiming to document and preserve evolving Indonesian slang and colloquialisms. The authors and editor argued that such informal language carries generational identity and cultural thought, making its preservation a matter of national collective wisdom. The book also addresses contemporary linguistic debates, including the classification of palm oil trees.

Solemn Wayang Kulit Gedhog Performance Before Mubeng Benteng at the Jogja Palace

A rare Wayang Kulit Gedhog performance, featuring the Panji cycle, was held at the Yogyakarta Palace to open the Javanese New Year 1 Sura celebrations. The event drew a large crowd, predominantly young people, ahead of the traditional Mubeng Beteng ritual. The palace aims to preserve this unique art form and use its philosophical stories for public introspection.

Danantara Takes Over Coal Exports, East Kalimantan Assesses Impact on Jobs and Investment

The Indonesian government has mandated PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia as the sole exporter for strategic commodities including coal, effective 1 June 2026. East Kalimantan, which supplies 60 per cent of national coal, is evaluating the potential fallout on its economy, investment climate, and workforce. Officials estimate up to 44,000 core sector workers and 300,000 in related industries could be affected, alongside a significant cut in national production quotas.

PGE Sweeps Six APQA 2026 Awards, Strengthening Position as National Geothermal Leader

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) secured six accolades at the Annual Pertamina Quality Award (APQA) 2026, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The awards recognise the company's integrated management systems and continuous improvement culture across its operations. PGE's achievements reinforce its status as a geothermal centre of excellence, managing approximately 70% of Indonesia's installed geothermal capacity.

Islamic New Year: Khofifah Calls for 'Hijrah' Towards Healthy and Productive Living

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa marked the Islamic New Year by urging residents to embrace a spiritual and physical transformation towards healthier, more productive lives. She emphasised that human development, including improved public health and the fight against stunting, is the foundation of the province's progress. The governor called for collective action to strengthen healthy lifestyles and community cooperation.

Indo Livestock 2026 Officially Opens, Featuring First Indoor Garut Sheep Contest

The Indo Livestock 2026 Expo & Forum has opened in Tangerang, marking its 19th edition with over 600 participants from 30 countries. A key highlight is the inaugural indoor Garut Sheep agility competition, aimed at modernising and promoting local livestock culture. The event also includes educational programmes on nutrition to support Indonesia's 'Golden Generation 2045' vision.

While Stroking a Cat, Gibran Discusses the Need for Ethics in AI Utilisation

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka emphasised that artificial intelligence (AI) is a present-day tool that can accelerate learning for students, but warned it must be paired with strong ethics. He highlighted AI's potential to help Indonesia catch up and achieve its 'Golden Indonesia 2045' vision, while cautioning against its misuse for spreading hoaxes or plagiarism. Gibran also noted the government has completed a UNESCO AI readiness assessment to help prepare the nation's digital ecosystem.

13 nations join Garut International Kite Festival in West Java

Thirteen countries have registered for the Garut International Kite Festival, which will be held at a mountain agrotourism site in West Java from late July to early August 2026. The Garut district government is fully backing the event to boost tourism and is currently completing road access improvements to support the festival. Organisers expect the unique highland setting to attract international kite flyers and a significant number of visitors.

Steinmeier's visit signals a new phase in Indonesia-Germany ties

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier's visit to Jakarta underscores a deepening strategic partnership between Indonesia and Germany, moving beyond trade to encompass energy transition, skilled workforce development, and the IEU-CEPA negotiations. The talks highlighted a concrete agreement on nursing skills partnership and reflect a shared interest in economic transformation amid global geopolitical shifts. The success of the evolving relationship will depend on translating diplomatic commitments into tangible investment and employment benefits ahead of the 75th anniversary of bilateral ties in 2027.

New B50 Biodiesel Fuel to Launch on 1 July, Here Are the Specifications

The Indonesian government will mandate the use of B50 biodiesel, a fuel blend containing 50% palm oil, starting 1 July 2026. Trials have shown 80-90% positive results, with the policy projected to save Rp 157.28 trillion in foreign exchange and increase the added value of crude palm oil. The programme is also expected to absorb 2.2 million workers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 46.72 million tonnes of CO2 this year.

Economist Says JCI Strengthening Depends on Government Bond Yields

An economist has stated that the sustainability of the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rally hinges on government bond yields and rupiah stability. A gradual decline in the 10-year bond yield from its peak above 7.3% could lower Indonesia's risk premium and attract foreign capital inflows. The recent JCI uptrend has been supported by a technical rebound, Bank Indonesia's firmer monetary policy, and easing global geopolitical tensions.

US-Iran Tensions Ease, Bitcoin Price Surges to Rp1.2 Billion

Bitcoin's price surpassed US$65,900 as global market sentiment recovered following a preliminary US-Iran agreement to de-escalate conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The easing of geopolitical uncertainty has revived investor appetite for high-risk assets, with the cryptocurrency gaining nearly 8% from last week's lows. Analysts caution that the rally's sustainability depends on institutional fund flows, regulatory developments, and global monetary policy.

Islamic New Year a Momentum to Transform Habits into Productivity

The Jakarta Ministry of Religious Affairs has stated that the Islamic New Year 1448 H should be more than a ceremony, serving as a catalyst for Muslims to adopt more productive habits. The Jakarta provincial government also marked the occasion with an electric torch parade, promoting synergy and environmental care. The celebrations coincide with the lead-up to Jakarta's 499th anniversary, reinforcing calls for a more just and prosperous society.

Sustainable Gastronomy Day 18 June: Protecting the Earth Through Our Plates

The United Nations designated 18 June as Sustainable Gastronomy Day to highlight the role of food systems in achieving sustainable development. The observance encourages mindful consumption, from reducing food waste to choosing local ingredients, as a way to protect the environment. Indonesia's rich food biodiversity, including sago, maize, and tubers, offers a practical path for citizens to embrace these principles.

Mall Operators Shift Expansion Outside Java Amid Economic Headwinds

Indonesian mall operators are increasingly focusing expansion outside Java as they navigate rising operational costs and a shift in consumer spending towards cheaper goods. The chairman of the shopping centre association noted that while visitor numbers remain stable, the weakening purchasing power of the lower-middle class and increased logistics costs are reshaping the industry. New developments are targeting regions beyond Java where the lower-middle market segment still offers promising potential.

PSI Opens Up About Jokowi's Delayed Announcement as Board Member

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has addressed the delay in formally announcing former President Joko Widodo's position within the party, stating they are waiting for all preparations to be complete. Deputy Chair Isyana Bagoes Oka also dismissed speculation that Jokowi's recent regional visits constitute a political safari, framing them instead as responses to public invitations now that his health has improved. PSI is currently focused on internal administrative and structural matters, including verification processes.

Suspected Rabid Dog Terrorises Local Gathering, Three Bitten in Jembrana

Three residents, including two toddlers, were bitten by a suspected rabid dog during a community event in Jembrana Regency, Bali. The dog displayed aggressive behaviour and was found dead the following morning with symptoms consistent with rabies. Health authorities have collected brain samples for testing and are tracing victims to ensure they receive full anti-rabies vaccinations.

Gibran on AI: Master the Technology, Uphold the Ethics

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has urged Indonesians to actively master artificial intelligence rather than remain passive observers, framing AI as a present-day reality crucial for achieving the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. He stressed that ethical considerations must accompany technological advancement, warning against misuse for hoaxes, plagiarism, or privacy violations. Gibran also called on teachers and parents to become AI-literate to support education and announced the government's completion of a UNESCO AI readiness assessment.

Before Evacuation at UGM, Nusron Says He Must Listen to Public Complaints

Agrarian Minister Nusron Wahid emphasised the importance of listening to public criticism before being evacuated from a discussion at Gadjah Mada University. The event, also attended by the Head of the Poverty Alleviation Agency and the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, was disrupted by protesting students. Nusron stated that public feedback is essential for improving policy and that officials unwilling to accept criticism are unfit for public service.

Pertamina Increases 3kg LPG Supply in Bali for 1 Muharram and Galungan Holidays

Pertamina Patra Niaga has added 417,200 canisters of subsidised 3kg LPG in Bali to meet heightened demand during the Islamic New Year and Galungan holidays. The additional supply represents up to 95% of the average daily distribution, ensuring stock adequacy. The company also urged the public to avoid panic buying and to purchase fuel and LPG wisely.

Four Drug Smuggling Attempts Foiled in a Day, DKI Jakarta Corrections Office Reaffirms Zero Halinar

Correctional officers in DKI Jakarta thwarted four separate drug smuggling attempts at two facilities on Monday, intercepting narcotics hidden in body cavities, medicine bottles, and hair extensions. The seized contraband included over 28 grams of suspected drugs and liquid Etomidate, highlighting the persistent challenge of illicit trafficking in prisons. The regional head of corrections praised the vigilance of staff and reiterated the commitment to the 'Zero Halinar' policy targeting mobile phones, illegal levies, and narcotics.

13 Illegal Hikers Arrested on Mount Semeru, Four Others Still Sought

Authorities from the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS) have detained 13 individuals for illegally climbing Mount Semeru in East Java. The arrests occurred during surveillance operations at two separate locations, with the suspects having used unofficial routes to bypass regulations. A manhunt is ongoing for four additional suspects believed to have entered the protected area illegally.

PPP Cadres Report Three Individuals to Police Over Alleged Muktamar Document Forgery

Several cadres of the United Development Party (PPP) have filed a police report against three individuals for allegedly forging signatures on documents related to the party's September 2025 muktamar. The complainants, representing various regional branches, claim their signatures were falsified on attendance lists and other documents used in ongoing court proceedings. The legal action highlights internal party integrity concerns, with lawyers indicating that up to 200 branch leaders may have been affected.

Palu Earthquake Impact: Buildings Damaged, Hospital Patients Evacuated

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck southeast of Palu, Central Sulawesi, causing widespread panic and infrastructure damage. Patients at Anutapura Hospital were evacuated to open areas as a precaution. Authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the damage to buildings in the region.

Police Arrest Armed Youth in Karawang After Viral Robbery Footage

Police in Karawang, West Java, have arrested a 21-year-old man suspected of involvement in a violent robbery and assault that was captured on CCTV and went viral on social media. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of 6 June 2026, saw a group of armed youths mistakenly attack two bystanders before stealing a motorcycle. Authorities are continuing to hunt for the remaining suspects.

Iran Insists Israel Is Bound by Peace Agreement with US

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that Israel is considered a party to the ceasefire memorandum of understanding with the United States, alongside Hezbollah. Tehran warned that any further Israeli attacks on Lebanon would be treated as a violation of the agreement. The formal signing ceremony is expected to take place in Geneva later this week.

BMKG: M 6.7 Earthquake in Palu Triggered by Sausu Fault

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck Palu and parts of South Sulawesi on Tuesday was caused by activity along the Sausu Fault, according to Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). The shallow quake, at a depth of 16 km, had a normal fault mechanism and did not pose a tsunami risk. Authorities reported 13 aftershocks and damage to buildings in Palu City, Parigi Moutong Regency, and Sigi Regency, with assessments of casualties and displaced residents still ongoing.

Pertalite Price Listed as Rp18,040 per Litre Sparks Outcry, Pertamina Issues Official Clarification

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has clarified that the Rp18,040 per litre figure appearing on some fuel receipts is the economic price of Pertalite, not the retail price paid by consumers. The state-owned company stressed that the subsidised fuel price remains set by the government, which absorbs the difference to maintain affordability. The explanation aims to quell public confusion after images of the receipts circulated widely online.

Aisyi Tower Klaten Officially Launched, 'Aisyiyah's First Hospitality Venture

Aisyiyah, the women's wing of Muhammadiyah, has launched its first hotel, Aisyi Tower Klaten, marking a significant expansion into the hospitality sector. The venture was financed entirely through internal funds without bank loans and aims to strengthen the organisation's economic independence. The hotel also incorporates a literacy concept and prioritises local employment and supply chains to boost the regional economy.

Indonesia pushes coastal slum upgrades for sustainable development

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development has highlighted the revitalisation of the Dorokarama II slum area in West Nusa Tenggara as a key step towards the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision. The government views slum rehabilitation not just as physical construction but as a tool for social change and improving quality of life. Local officials praised the programme for providing a healthier, safer living environment, while the minister stressed that infrastructure must be paired with better nutrition, health, and education services.

Central Java leads Indonesia in waqf land certification

Central Java has achieved the highest rate of waqf land certification in Indonesia, with approximately 73 percent of religious endowment plots now officially registered. The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning aims to resolve remaining barriers, targeting at least 95 percent certification within three years. The initiative involves collaboration with mosque councils, religious organisations, and universities to prevent future land disputes.

Welcoming Bhayangkara Anniversary, Bengkalis Police Hold Joint Prayers on 1 Muharram

The Bengkalis Police Resort marked the Islamic New Year 1448 H and the upcoming 80th Bhayangkara Anniversary with a spiritual reflection event. The gathering included joint prayers and the provision of aid to orphans, aiming to strengthen the emotional bond between the police and the community. The police chief emphasised the occasion as a moment for institutional self-improvement and renewed dedication to public service.

Creative Economy Ministry Targets Rp157 Trillion Investment by 2027

Indonesia's Creative Economy Ministry aims to attract up to Rp157.65 trillion in investment by 2027, positioning the sector as a new engine for structural transformation. The targets, aligned with the National Medium-Term Development Plan, also include 5.8% GDP growth contribution and absorbing 26.58 million workers. Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya indicated an additional Rp1.73 trillion in state budget funding is needed to achieve these goals.

UGM Students Reveal Trigger for Storming Discussion Stage with Budiman and Others

Student activists at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) disrupted a discussion forum featuring government officials, citing frustration with the administration's handling of public grievances. The students claimed they were provoked by a challenge from the speakers to criticise directly rather than on social media. The incident highlights growing tensions over perceived government unresponsiveness to issues such as agrarian conflict, fiscal waste, and the suppression of dissent.

BEM Bersatu Alleges Activist Tiyo Ardiyanto Has Ties to PDIP Figures and Ex-Ganjar Campaign Team

The BEM Bersatu student alliance has accused protest leader Tiyo Ardianto of being linked to political networks, including a retired general connected to Ganjar Pranowo's 2024 presidential campaign. The group claims a vehicle used by Ardianto is registered to the sister of a retired lieutenant general who is related by marriage to former TNI commander Andhika Perkasa. BEM Bersatu also demanded the student movement be sterilised from political intervention while expressing conditional support for the free nutritious meal programme.

Donald Trump: Without the US, Israel Would Not Exist!

US President Donald Trump has criticised Israel's military operations in Lebanon, suggesting Syria would be more effective at handling Hizbullah. He also asserted that no other president would have taken the actions he did, claiming Israel would not exist without his support.

Kompol Fadli Amri Earns Doctorate in Law Through Sociopreneurship Policing Approach

Indonesian National Police officer Kompol M. Fadli Amri has been awarded a Doctor of Law degree from Sultan Agung Islamic University for his research on 'sociopreneurship policing'. The concept integrates social entrepreneurship with community policing to prevent crime by addressing socio-economic root causes. Fadli's work highlights how police officers can act as facilitators and initiators of social enterprises to strengthen community resilience and public trust.

Debt Collectors May Disappear, but Harassment Takes a New Form

Artificial intelligence is increasingly replacing human debt collectors in the United States, with AI agents now making millions of calls monthly. While offering efficiency, these systems are prone to errors due to messy data, sometimes pursuing already-settled debts. Experts warn that unlike human collectors, AI lacks the flexibility to negotiate or understand context, raising concerns about fairness and accuracy.

German President Thanks Prabowo in Indonesian During State Visit

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed gratitude in Indonesian during a meeting with President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace, highlighting the importance of bilateral ties. Prabowo invited Germany to expand investment in strategic sectors including energy transition, downstream industry, electric vehicles, and semiconductors. Both leaders also discussed advancing the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA) negotiations.

Jusuf Kalla: Mosques Must Empower Congregants and Become Centres of Civilisation

Indonesian Mosque Council Chairman Jusuf Kalla has urged that mosques evolve beyond places of worship to become hubs for community prosperity and civilisation. He stressed the need for mosques to actively promote education, entrepreneurship, and economic independence, particularly during the Islamic New Year commemoration. Kalla cited the Prophet Muhammad's background as a trader to encourage a revival of enterprise within the Muslim community.