Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 June 2026

Showing 301-350 of 970 articles

It Turns Out Not Indonesia, This Is the ASEAN Country with the Most Public Holidays

A comparison of public holidays across ASEAN nations reveals Cambodia tops the list with 23 days in 2026, while Indonesia ranks sixth with 17 days. The variation reflects each country's dominant religious and cultural traditions, with Laos having the fewest at just 8 days. The data highlights how national and religious celebrations shape the annual calendar across Southeast Asia.

LPG 3 kg Stocks in Central Java and Yogyakarta Bolstered for Islamic New Year

Pertamina Patra Niaga has added 1.33 million canisters of subsidised 3 kg LPG across Central Java and Yogyakarta to secure supplies during the Islamic New Year holiday. The additional allocation, distributed via a facultative scheme, represents roughly 85 percent of the region's normal daily consumption. The company is also urging more affluent households to switch to non-subsidised LPG to ensure targeted energy subsidies.

Not Yet Graduated but Already in Banking: UNM Student Succeeds Through IEP 3+1

A student from Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) has gained professional banking experience at Bank Mandiri Taspen before completing her degree, thanks to the university's Internship Experience Program (IEP) 3+1. Tiara Putri Adhaini undertook a three-month internship handling data management and graphic design, demonstrating the programme's effectiveness in bridging academia and industry. UNM officials highlighted the initiative as a key strategy for producing job-ready graduates in the digital business sector.

The Black Market Trail of Sumatran Orangutans in Aceh

The illegal wildlife trade in Aceh's Leuser Ecosystem is devastating Sumatran orangutan populations, with poachers typically killing protective mothers to capture their infants. Each trafficked infant represents the loss of two generations, threatening the survival of a species that shares its habitat with three other critically endangered Sumatran mammals.

Communications Analyst Praises Cabinet Secretary Teddy for Explaining Pertamax Price Hike

Political communications analyst Hendri Satrio has commended Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya for personally addressing the recent Pertamax fuel price increase, though he noted the effort was minimal. Satrio argued that such price hikes should be communicated directly to the public through a detailed press conference. The Cabinet Secretary explained via Instagram that Pertamax is a non-subsidised fuel, so its price must follow global oil market movements.

Budiman Sudjatmiko's Statement After Evacuation from UGM: We Should Have Had a Healthy Discussion

Budiman Sudjatmiko, Head of the Poverty Alleviation Acceleration Agency, expressed regret after a discussion forum at Gadjah Mada University was disrupted by protesting students. The event, which also featured the Agrarian Minister and Deputy Agriculture Minister, was halted when students entered the hall as Budiman began to speak. He emphasised that the government would never silence critics and that a healthy dialogue should have been possible.

Video: A Look at the Integrated Senior Living Business Amid Global Turmoil

Indonesia's ageing population, projected to reach 60 million, is driving demand for integrated senior living services. PT Rukun Sahabat Senior is capitalising on this demographic shift by offering housing, healthcare, and digitally-enabled facilities aimed at keeping the elderly active. The business faces both opportunities and challenges in navigating current global economic volatility.

Indonesians Richer Than Elon Musk? Here's the Data

Elon Musk's net worth has surged to US$1.1 trillion following SpaceX's IPO, exceeding the GDP of 162 sovereign nations. Indonesia is one of only 19 countries whose economy, valued at US$1.39 trillion, remains larger than the billionaire's personal fortune.

Rupiah Weakens as US Tariff Threat Intensifies, Indonesian Exports at Risk

The Indonesian rupiah closed weaker on Tuesday amid growing market anxiety over potential new US import tariffs on Indonesian goods. Analysts warn the policy could severely pressure national export performance, particularly in the manufacturing sector. The currency is projected to trade within a narrow range in the next session.

Global Sentiment Improves, Bitcoin Price Strengthens After US-Iran Deal

Bitcoin and other major crypto assets rallied after a preliminary US-Iran agreement eased geopolitical tensions and reopened the Strait of Hormuz. The improved risk sentiment prompted investors to increase exposure to volatile assets, with Bitcoin briefly touching $65,900. However, analysts caution that sustained gains depend on institutional fund flows and broader monetary conditions.

Viral Duco Painter Who Extorted Billboard Workers in Central Jakarta Arrested

A duco painter in Central Jakarta has been arrested after a video of him allegedly extorting billboard installation workers went viral on social media. The suspect, identified as YM, reportedly demanded security and parking fees from the crew working on a pedestrian bridge near the Kramat Sentiong Transjakarta stop. Police are currently holding the man at Senen Police Station while investigations continue.

South Tangerang Trains Civil Servants in AI to Accelerate Public Services

The South Tangerang municipal government has launched an intensive programme to equip its civil servants with artificial intelligence skills, aiming to streamline bureaucracy and improve public service delivery. The initiative includes deploying AI for 24-hour complaint handling, predictive health analytics, and more targeted social aid distribution. Officials stressed that AI will serve as a smart assistant, with final decisions and data validation remaining firmly under human control.

1,920 Acehnese Students Join Parade for Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah

The Aceh provincial government organised a parade welcoming the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah, involving 1,920 students. Officials emphasised the event as a reminder of the Prophet Muhammad's migration and a call for moral improvement and social unity. The parade was framed as a celebration of Islamic values and a foundation for building a dignified civilisation in Aceh.

Merapi Jeep Tour Tariffs Rise Following Fuel Price Hike

Tour operators on Mount Merapi have increased Lava Tour package prices by approximately Rp 50,000 per Jeep in response to rising fuel costs. The hike, driven by Pertamax and diesel price surges, aims to sustain operations despite the financial pressure. Visitor interest remains robust, with the adventure tourism sector continuing to support the local economy on the volcano's slopes.

Leaving Malaysia, PM Anwar Attends Russia-ASEAN Summit in Kazan

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has departed for Kazan, Russia, to participate in the Russia-ASEAN Summit commemorating 35 years of relations. During the visit, he is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with President Vladimir Putin and attend the Russia-ASEAN Business Forum. Following the summit, Anwar will proceed to Ashgabat for an official visit to Turkmenistan.

Pertamina clarifies price difference between Pertamax and Pertalite on purchase receipts

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has addressed public confusion over the appearance of an 'economic price' of Rp18,040 per litre on Pertalite receipts, stressing that the figure is not the actual retail price. The company explained that Pertalite is a government-assigned subsidised fuel, with its retail price set by policy to protect public purchasing power. The receipt figure merely reflects the market value and energy supply costs before subsidy.

Private Sector and Community Collaboration Manages 8 Tonnes of Waste for Social Benefit

A cross-sector partnership involving J&T Cargo, Decathlon Foundation Indonesia, and KDM Foundation has successfully managed 8.2 tonnes of retail operational waste through a circular economy model. The initiative, running from March to May 2026, links logistics with community waste banks to reduce landfill burden and an estimated 40 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions. Proceeds from the recycled waste are channelled into supporting vulnerable children's education, basic needs, and community empowerment programmes.

TNBTS Apprehends 13 Suspected Illegal Hikers on Mount Semeru

The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park Agency (TNBTS) has detained 13 individuals suspected of illegally climbing Mount Semeru during a surveillance operation. The suspects were caught in two separate locations, Ranupani and Taman Satriyan, with some attempting to use unofficial routes and evade registered guides. The Forestry Law Enforcement Agency is now conducting further investigations and processing legal documentation.

Welcoming the MANGOS Era, Will Indonesia Feel the AI Effect?

The emergence of the 'MANGOS' acronym on Wall Street highlights the dominance of AI-focused firms like Meta, Nvidia, and OpenAI in shaping market narratives for 2026. This global AI trend is expected to boost demand for digital infrastructure in Indonesia, including data centres and energy supply, as the country becomes a key Southeast Asian investment destination. However, investors are cautioned to focus on fundamental analysis and risk management to avoid potential market bubbles driven by excessive euphoria.

UBSI Hosts Personal Branding Seminar, Dery Kasisolusi Urges Students to Showcase Their Value

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) held a personal branding seminar in Bekasi, featuring Deryansha Azhary, who stressed that skills alone are insufficient for success in the digital age. Dery outlined six key categories for building an effective personal brand, emphasising the need to provide value through education and inspiration before focusing on promotion. The event highlighted UBSI's commitment to equipping students with relevant professional competencies beyond academic achievements.

Indo Livestock 2026 Opens in Tangerang with 600 Participants from 30 Countries

The 19th Indo Livestock Expo & Forum has commenced in Tangerang, drawing 600 participants from 30 nations to showcase innovations in livestock, feed, and animal health. Supported by the Ministry of Agriculture, the event aims to bolster national food security and promote Indonesia's livestock sector on a global stage. For the first time, the Garut Sheep Agility Art contest is being held indoors as part of efforts to modernise and elevate traditional farming culture.

Ahead of 50th Diplomatic Anniversary, Qatar Reaffirms USD 4 Billion Investment

Qatar has reaffirmed its commitment to invest USD 4 billion in Indonesia during a meeting between its Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and President Prabowo Subianto. The discussions, which also covered preparations for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, highlighted Qatar's confidence in Indonesia's economic outlook. The investment is expected to support national development and strengthen strategic bilateral cooperation.

The 'Tangping' Trend Brings Disaster: The 'Rotten Tail Children' Phenomenon Emerges in China

China faces a deepening employment crisis among its youth, with millions of university graduates unable to find suitable work, giving rise to the 'rotten tail children' phenomenon. This structural mismatch between education and the job market is fuelling a cultural shift known as 'tangping', where young people opt out of fierce competition rather than accept low-quality jobs. Despite government pledges to create millions of jobs, record graduate numbers and sluggish economic recovery are exacerbating the problem.

Saudi Arabia Marks Islamic New Year with Kiswah Replacement at the Kaaba, Here's Why

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia officially marked the Islamic New Year 1 Muharram 1448 H on 15 June 2026 with the ceremonial replacement of the Kiswah, the cloth covering the Kaaba. The annual tradition symbolises spiritual renewal and a fresh start for Muslims, while also serving the practical purpose of maintaining the sanctity and cleanliness of the cloth. Indonesian Hajj officials highlighted that the replacement is crucial given the millions of pilgrims who touch the covering during tawaf each year.

West Sumatra Umrah pilgrims depart on aircraft bound to collect Hajj pilgrims in Medina

A total of 393 Umrah pilgrims from West Sumatra departed from Minangkabau International Airport for Medina, marking the first time an aircraft chartered for Hajj repatriation has also been used to transport Umrah pilgrims. The initiative reflects a new Saudi policy allowing Umrah travel while Hajj operations are still underway and aligns with Indonesia's goal of building a more effective and sustainable Hajj and Umrah economic ecosystem.

KP2MI oversees handling of Indonesian migrant worker incident in Taiwan

Indonesia's Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection (KP2MI) is closely monitoring the case of several Indonesian migrant workers detained following an incident in Taichung, Taiwan. The ministry is coordinating with local authorities to ensure consular access and legal due process. The case highlights the government's emphasis on legal compliance for migrant workers abroad.

MUI: Differences in Islamic New Year Start Date Should Not Be Exaggerated

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has urged Muslims not to amplify the discrepancy between Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) and the government over the start of the Islamic New Year 1448 H. PBNU declared 1 Muharram falls on 17 June 2026 after failing to sight the crescent moon, while the Ministry of Religious Affairs set the date as 16 June 2026 based on MABIMS astronomical criteria. The MUI emphasised the spiritual meaning of hijrah as a moment for moral renewal and national unity.

US-Iran Deal Sounds Alarm of Danger for Israel and Netanyahu

A US-Iran agreement to de-escalate tensions has triggered alarm in Israel, where officials are grappling with the consequences of reduced pressure on Tehran and a potential rift with Washington. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly seeking an urgent meeting with President Donald Trump to align their diverging strategic interests, as the US moves to end a conflict unpopular with American consumers. The deal has exposed the limits of Israeli influence over US policy and sparked domestic criticism of Netanyahu's wartime leadership.

AGO to Examine Sony Sonjaya on Thursday, Delving into Justice Collaborator Request in MBG Case

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) is set to question Sony Sonjaya, a suspect in the alleged corruption of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, regarding his application for justice collaborator status. The examination aims to assess the eligibility of the former National Nutrition Agency (BGN) deputy chief, who is implicated alongside other former BGN officials in the manipulation of partner appointments. The outcome could significantly influence the investigation into the multibillion-rupiah programme.

KAI Daop 2 Serves 13,222 Passengers During Long Holiday Period

PT KAI Daop 2 Bandung recorded 13,222 passengers on Tuesday during the extended weekend and Islamic New Year holiday. The cumulative passenger count from Friday to Tuesday reached 77,907, exceeding the available seat capacity by 22 percent. The high occupancy was attributed to passengers boarding and alighting at intermediate stations, allowing seats to be reused across different journey segments.

West Java Legislator Calls for Thorough Evaluation of 2026 Student Admission System

A West Java legislator has urged the provincial government to conduct a comprehensive review of the new student admission system (SPMB) following technical and administrative problems during the 2026 candidate mapping process. The call comes as the provincial government plans to partner with 751 private schools to accommodate approximately 78,000 students who could not secure places in state schools, with the administration intending to cover their tuition fees.

Wood Waste Turns Profit! UNM Student Startup Secures P2MW 2026 Funding

A student team from Universitas Nusa Mandiri's Digital Business programme has secured funding from the national Student Entrepreneur Development Programme (P2MW) 2026. Their startup, Artholic Studio, produces custom home decor by upcycling wood waste and MDF, combining sustainability with creative business. The achievement underscores the university's commitment to fostering digital-era entrepreneurship with social and environmental impact.

Refill Stations: Time to Start a Plastic-Free Lifestyle

Despite growing global awareness of plastic pollution, the adoption of reusable packaging remains critically low at just 1.2% among major producers. Research indicates that convenience and social norms, rather than a lack of environmental concern, are the primary barriers to changing consumer behaviour. Refill stations are emerging as a key strategy in the circular economy, offering a practical way to reduce single-use plastic waste before it is created.

KPK Examines Wing Chun Federation Advisor in Hajj Quota Corruption Asset Tracing

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned the advisor of the Indonesian Wing Chun Federation as part of an expanding investigation into alleged corruption in the 2023-2024 Hajj quota allocation at the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The examination aims to trace assets and financial flows suspected of being linked to the case, which involves former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The KPK is focusing on asset recovery and verifying potential connections to external parties.

BP BUMN Gathers Himbara Chiefs, Sets Future Lending Priorities

The Supervisory Board for State-Owned Enterprises (BP BUMN) has directed state-owned banks under the Himbara association to prioritise lending to manufacturing, downstream resource processing, infrastructure, and MSME empowerment. The directive, issued during a meeting with bank commissioners and directors, aims to align the banking sector with national development goals. The meeting also evaluated bank performance and discussed strengthening governance and risk management.

Israel kills nearly 1,000 Palestinians since October, says UN rights chief

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has reported that Israeli forces have killed almost 1,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, since the Gaza ceasefire was announced in October. He also highlighted accelerated destruction of communities and land seizures in the West Bank, alongside severe restrictions on humanitarian aid. Türk condemned statements by senior Israeli officials advocating the expulsion of all Palestinians from Gaza as entirely illegal.

Basarnas and BPBD Set Up Emergency Tents at Undata Hospital in Palu Following 6.7-Magnitude Earthquake

Emergency services in Central Sulawesi have erected temporary tents at Undata Hospital in Palu as a precautionary measure after a 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck the region. Authorities report no significant structural damage in the city, though eight people have been injured in outlying districts. Officials are urging the public to remain calm and avoid unverified information on social media.

Anwar Ibrahim Hosts Ramos-Horta, Expands Cooperation with Timor-Leste

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim hosted a luncheon for Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta during his official visit, discussing expanded bilateral cooperation. The leaders explored collaboration in trade, investment, human resource development, and technical training. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity within the ASEAN framework.

Regent: Several roads in Sigi buried by landslides following earthquake

Sigi Regent Moh Rizal Intjenae, accompanied by Central Sulawesi Deputy Governor Reny A Lamadjido, inspected the Nokilalaki and Palolo areas after a magnitude 6.7 earthquake. Initial reports indicate six people were injured and two were referred to Torabelo Regional Hospital, while landslides have blocked several roads. The regent has instructed relevant agencies to assess the damage and urged residents to remain calm.

Economist: Policy credibility must be maintained for rupiah and IHSG to continue strengthening

An INDEF economist has urged the government to maintain economic policy credibility through fiscal discipline and regulatory certainty to sustain the recent rally in the rupiah and the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG). He projects the IHSG could return to the 8,000 level within 12–18 months and the rupiah could recover to around Rp16,500 per US dollar in one to two years, contingent on conducive global conditions and consistent domestic reforms. The recovery, he stressed, hinges on macroeconomic stability and investment strengthening rather than market sentiment alone.

Super El Niño Phenomenon Begins: Extreme Weather Impacts and Global Economic Threats

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has confirmed the onset of El Niño, with meteorologists warning it could become one of the strongest on record. The World Meteorological Organization cautions that the event will exacerbate droughts, heavy rainfall, and heatwaves worldwide. Previous strong El Niño events have caused trillions of dollars in global income losses, with significant risks to fisheries, agriculture, and national economic growth.

MUI Welcomes US-Iran Peace Agreement as a Starting Point to Halt Israeli Crimes

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has welcomed the peace agreement between the United States and Iran, expressing hope it will foster regional stability and lead to an end to Israeli aggression against Palestinians. MUI's head of foreign relations, Sudarnoto Abdul Hakim, praised the diplomatic resolution, highlighting its potential to prevent humanitarian crises and secure global trade routes. The council views the deal as aligned with Islamic values and Indonesia's constitutional mandate for world peace.

Tanjung Priok Port CEO Receives Honorary Title from Surakarta Palace

Indra Hidayat Sani, President Director of PT Pelabuhan Tanjung Priok (PTP), has been awarded the noble title Kanjeng Raden Tumenggung by the Surakarta Hadiningrat Sunanate. The honour recognises his leadership and PTP's strategic role in supporting Indonesia's national logistics and economic growth through reliable non-container terminal operations. The ceremony took place during the sacred Malam 1 Suro, symbolising a commitment to cultural preservation and public service.

Singapore Invited to Invest in Jakarta MRT Phase 3 and 4

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has invited Singapore to invest in the MRT Jakarta Phase 3 and 4 projects and transit-oriented developments. The offer was made during a meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, as part of efforts to transform Jakarta into a global city. Pramono emphasised that investing in Jakarta provides access to one of Southeast Asia's largest markets and pledged a transparent, efficient, and consistent investment climate.

Elza Syarief Resigns as Sony Sonjaya's Lawyer in MBG Corruption Case

Elza Syarief has stepped down as the legal counsel for former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, citing his dishonesty. She claims Sony concealed receiving regular payments from an associate, complicating his potential status as a justice collaborator. The case involves alleged corruption in the management of the Free Nutritious Meals programme, with five suspects named by the Attorney General's Office.

Viral Passenger Dispute at Soekarno-Hatta Airport: InJourney Airports Explains Handling

PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia (InJourney Airports) has responded to a viral video of a passenger altercation at Soekarno-Hatta Airport's Terminal 3. Aviation security personnel swiftly intervened to separate the individuals and maintain order, ensuring no disruption to airport operations. The parties were subsequently taken to the police post for mediation and further investigation.

Analyst: Jokowi's Signal of Joining PSI Could Shake Up 2029 Election Race

Political analyst Arifki Chaniago warns that President Joko Widodo's potential move to the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) could significantly alter the political landscape ahead of the 2029 elections. He suggests the association would boost PSI's electability while posing a serious threat to PDI-P, as Jokowi's loyal voter base might follow the figure rather than the party. The analyst noted that young voters, in particular, are likely to be swayed by such a realignment.

KPK to Re-examine 23 Pekalongan Civil Servants in Fadia Arafiq Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is set to question 23 civil servants from the Pekalongan Regency administration, including the regional secretary, as part of the ongoing corruption investigation into non-active Regent Fadia Arafiq. The case involves alleged irregularities in outsourcing projects and gratuities, with investigators probing the flow of funds to a company affiliated with Arafiq's family. The acting regent has urged all summoned officials to cooperate fully and provide honest testimony.

Rosan Dismisses Market Doubts as Danantara's Inaugural Bonds Hunted by Global Investors

Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani has refuted claims of waning foreign investor confidence in Indonesia, citing overwhelming demand for the sovereign wealth fund's first global bond issuance. The order book surged to approximately USD 4.6 billion, more than quadrupling the initial USD 1 billion target, leading to an upsized USD 1.5 billion offering. Rosan stated the strong uptake and competitive pricing serve as a definitive answer to market scepticism regarding Indonesia's prospects and Danantara's credibility.

Great Lecturers Are Not Born Overnight, They Grow from the Right Investment

An opinion piece argues that investing in lecturer development is the most crucial factor for higher education quality, surpassing even facilities and technology. The author, a coordinator at UBSI Tasikmalaya, contends that continuous training, research support, and institutional appreciation are essential for educators to adapt to rapid technological change and produce competent graduates. The article highlights Universitas BSI Tasikmalaya's commitment to this human-centred investment as foundational to creating a globally competitive academic ecosystem.