Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 16 June 2026

Showing 351-400 of 970 articles

Incentive Rules for Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens to Be Overhauled

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) plans to overhaul the current flat-rate incentive system for its Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) kitchens. The current fixed payment of Rp6 million per day per kitchen will be replaced with a variable scheme based on the actual number of beneficiaries served. The agency will also tie incentives to food quality, safety standards, and may merge kitchens with low beneficiary numbers as part of a broader refocusing effort.

Bandung Woman Found After Three Years Missing, Allegedly Abused by Boyfriend

A 29-year-old woman from Bandung, missing for three years, was discovered with severe injuries at a hospital, leading to allegations of prolonged abuse and captivity by her boyfriend. The family has filed a police report, and authorities in West Java are investigating the suspect for assault using blunt and sharp objects, as well as theft.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Explains Basis for 1 Muharram Determination After NU Sets Different Date

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has set 1 Muharram 1448 H for Tuesday, 16 June 2026, based on the MABIMS astronomical criteria, while Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) has declared it a day later after failing to sight the new moon. Kemenag explained that the hilal's altitude and elongation met the minimum thresholds across most of the country, bridging modern calculation with traditional observation. Both institutions have called for mutual respect regarding the differing methodologies, urging unity during the Islamic New Year.

Islamic New Year: Villagers Scramble for Produce and Float Offerings in Kalimas River

Residents of Bogempinggir village in Sidoarjo, East Java, celebrated the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah with a traditional Suroan ritual. The event featured a scramble for a mountain of agricultural produce believed to bring blessings, followed by the floating of offerings into the Kalimas River. The tradition serves as an expression of gratitude and a prayer for the community's safety and prosperity.

WHO and Brazil Urge G7 to Finalise Global Pandemic Agreement

The World Health Organisation and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva have jointly urged G7 leaders to break a deadlock over a crucial pathogen-sharing mechanism. The appeal, made during the G7 summit in France, stresses the urgent need to finalise the Pandemic Agreement's benefits-sharing annex to prepare for future outbreaks. The letter warns that delays leave the world vulnerable, citing a 25% chance of another pandemic within a decade.

Viral Claim That Pertalite Costs More Than Pertamax: Pertamina's Explanation

Pertamina has addressed a viral video suggesting the unsubsidised price of Pertalite exceeds the selling price of Pertamax. The state-owned company clarified that Pertalite is a government-assigned subsidised fuel, with its retail price set by the government to protect public purchasing power. It also noted that Pertamax, a non-subsidised fuel, is currently not fully priced at its economic level to maintain national economic stability.

Bantul Health Office Targets 460,000 Residents for Free Health Check Programme

The Bantul District Health Office in Yogyakarta aims to enrol 460,000 residents in its Free Health Check (CKG) programme this year, having already reached approximately 10 per cent of the target by the end of May. The office is accelerating outreach by deploying mobile services at community events and government offices to overcome public reluctance to register at local health centres. Last year, the programme exceeded its target by covering 370,000 people against a goal of 360,000.

TaniHub Case a Wake-Up Call: Time to Audit All SOE and Danantara Startup Investments

The legal troubles surrounding BRI Ventures' investment in TaniHub should trigger a comprehensive audit of all startup investments made by Indonesian state-owned enterprises and the future Danantara fund. The case highlights the need to separate genuine business risk from criminal misconduct while ensuring public accountability for funds tied to national interest. This moment should serve as a catalyst for reforming startup investment governance, moving beyond unicorn-chasing towards rational, disciplined, and value-creating strategies.

Indonesia to Sign M-346 Aircraft Purchase Contract in July 2026, Replacing F-16

Indonesia is set to finalise a contract in July 2026 to acquire up to 36 Leonardo M-346F light combat and trainer aircraft, having selected the Italian jet over Turkish and South Korean competitors. The deal, initially outlined in a letter of intent signed in February 2026, forms part of a broader modernisation of the Indonesian Air Force. Domestic defence contractor PT E-Systems will support maintenance and integrate locally developed systems, including a self-protection jammer and indigenous data links.

Investor Confidence Drives Oversubscription of Danantara Global Bonds

Danantara Indonesia's global bond issuance attracted USD 4.6 billion in demand, more than four times the initial USD 1 billion target, prompting an upsizing to USD 1.5 billion. Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani stated the strong investor appetite, following international roadshows, demonstrates tangible confidence in Indonesia's economy despite recent market pressures. The proceeds are earmarked for strategic national investments.

Iran Warns Israel: Attacks on Lebanon Violate Agreement with US

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that any Israeli attack on Lebanon would breach a temporary memorandum of understanding with the United States. He emphasised that Washington and Tel Aviv are considered a single party in the negotiations, alongside Iran and Hezbollah. The warning comes amid a shifting balance of power in Lebanon following military setbacks for Hezbollah in late 2024.

Profile of Budiman Sudjatmiko: From PRD Activist to Head of Poverty Alleviation Agency

Budiman Sudjatmiko, a former pro-democracy activist and founder of the People's Democratic Party (PRD), has been appointed as the Head of the National Poverty Alleviation Acceleration Agency. His political journey spans from imprisonment during the New Order era to serving as a PDI-P legislator, where he championed the Village Law, before his dismissal from the party for supporting Prabowo Subianto. He now holds a central role in executing national poverty reduction strategies.

Nurse: Woman Thrown into Ravine Without Bungee Cord Was Still Alive During Fall

A Brazilian nurse who was first on the scene of a tragic bungee jumping accident has revealed the victim was still alive and conscious after falling into a ravine. The 21-year-old woman was thrown by instructors who had forgotten to attach her safety harness. The nurse described a desperate scramble down a steep, muddy slope to reach the victim, who had a weak pulse and dilated pupils.

A New Form of Indonesia-Germany Partnership

President Steinmeier's brief visit to Jakarta signalled a deepening strategic partnership between Indonesia and Germany, moving beyond trade to encompass energy, climate, and skilled workforce development. The talks highlighted the acceleration of the IEU-CEPA trade deal and a concrete agreement on a Global Skills Partnership in nursing. This reflects a shift towards a comprehensive development partnership amid global economic uncertainty and geopolitical changes.

Koster Requests Additional Cargo Ship Schedules to Nusa Penida to Curb Prices

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has urged for an increase in cargo ferry trips to Nusa Penida to address the high cost of basic necessities on the island. The proposed trial would raise the frequency from two to three trips per day, aiming to stabilise supply and reduce price disparities with mainland Klungkung. The initiative is expected to require an increase in subsidies from Rp1.4 billion to Rp2.1 billion.

Viral Video of Sick Woman Carried on Makeshift Stretcher Prompts Response from Bandung Barat Regent

A video of a woman being carried on a makeshift stretcher due to impassable roads in West Bandung Regency has gone viral, prompting a response from Regent Jeje Ritchie Ismail. The regent acknowledged the access road is on land owned by state railway company PT KAI, which has not yet granted permission for upgrades. He pledged to coordinate with PT KAI to find a solution, noting that healthcare access and infrastructure are priorities.

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution Bans ASN and BUMD Employees from Using Vapes

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has issued an instruction prohibiting all civil servants, non-civil servants, and regional-owned enterprise employees from using electronic cigarettes or vapes. The policy is framed as a preemptive measure to protect the public, particularly the youth, from potential drug abuse and long-term health risks. The directive also calls on regents and mayors to enforce the ban, install signage, and encourage private sector adoption, following a recommendation from the National Narcotics Agency regarding the use of vapes for liquid narcotics distribution.

Muharam Celebrated Like Eid in Bangka

The Islamic New Year, 1 Muharam, is celebrated with festivities comparable to Eid in Bangka Regency, Bangka Belitung Islands. The tradition, which involves open houses and abundant feasts, is a hallmark of local culture and fosters community unity. Local authorities view it as a valuable heritage that should be preserved.

Former UGM Student Body Chair Tiyo Ardianto's Statement Deemed Insulting to President

The East Java branch of the Garda Prabowo organisation has strongly condemned remarks by former Gadjah Mada University student body chairman Tiyo Ardianto, alleging they insulted President Prabowo Subianto. The group emphasised that while democratic freedom of expression is guaranteed, it must be exercised with moral responsibility and respect for state symbols. They called for constructive public discourse and urged the youth to prioritise national unity over divisive rhetoric.

Jambi Health Quarantine Office Prepares Special Procedures for Hajj Pilgrims with Fever

The Jambi Health Quarantine Office (BKK) has established special protocols for returning Hajj pilgrims who exhibit fever symptoms. Pilgrims with a body temperature above 37 degrees Celsius will be isolated and transported by ambulance for further observation and laboratory testing. The measures aim to monitor pilgrims' health and prevent the potential spread of infectious diseases upon their return from Saudi Arabia.

Danantara Issues Inaugural USD1.5 Billion Global Bond

Indonesia's Danantara has successfully issued its first global bond, raising USD1.5 billion after attracting USD4.6 billion in orders. The issuance, split into five- and ten-year tranches, signals strong international investor confidence in Indonesia's economic stability, with the United States emerging as the largest buyer.

Is Tonight Malam 1 Suro 2026? Check the Javanese Calendar Again

Confusion has arisen online over the exact date of Malam 1 Suro 2026, the Javanese New Year's Eve. While some believed it fell on 15 June, the Javanese calendar confirms it begins tonight, 16 June 2026, as the Javanese and Hijri calendars do not always align. The article also outlines traditional prohibitions observed during this sacred night and details the Mubeng Beteng ritual in Yogyakarta.

Shipping Firms Hesitate to Transit Strait of Hormuz Despite US-Iran Peace Talks

Major Japanese shipping company Mitsui O.S.K. Lines says it will not resume transits through the Strait of Hormuz until a US-Iran peace deal is fully implemented and security is assured. The firm's caution reflects broader industry scepticism after previous diplomatic failures and the disruption of a key global energy chokepoint. The conflict has halted shipments of oil, LNG, and other commodities, with operators warning that even if the strait reopens, a backlog of vessels could delay normal traffic for weeks.

Red and White Fishermen's Village: A New Engine Driving Coastal Economy

The development of the Red and White Fishermen's Village (KNMP) in Purworejo, Central Java, is beginning to boost the local fishing economy. Although not yet fully operational, the cooperative-managed programme is already providing training on modern outboard engines, boat repair, and GPS navigation. The initiative aims to enhance the skills and productivity of hundreds of local fishermen.

PM Wong to take part in ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan, Russia

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will attend the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan, marking 30 years of dialogue partnership. The summit will focus on strengthening strategic cooperation in areas such as energy, connectivity, and education. Singapore remains the only ASEAN member to have imposed sanctions on Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.

Video: Can a Specialised SOE for Palm Oil Exports Control Prices?

GAPKI Chairman Eddy Martono has expressed support for the government's plan to establish a dedicated state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, to oversee the export of strategic commodities, including palm oil. The association hopes this move will enhance transparency and governance in exports, ultimately strengthening fresh fruit bunch prices.

New Era of Internet: AI Bot Traffic Surpasses Humans, Cloudflare Reports

Data from Cloudflare Radar reveals that agentic AI bots now account for 57.4% of global web requests, overtaking human-generated traffic for the first time. The milestone, which arrived years earlier than projected, marks a fundamental shift in internet usage patterns and validates aspects of the 'Dead Internet Theory'. The findings carry significant implications for digital advertising metrics and website management.

Indonesian Herbal Products Enter Saudi Arabia, KJRI Jeddah Facilitates First Export Worth IDR 2.5 Billion

Indonesian herbal products have successfully penetrated the Saudi Arabian market with a first export deal valued at IDR 2.5 billion. The transaction, facilitated by the Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah and the Indonesian Trade Promotion Centre, involves PT Dami Sariwana and Saudi firm Al Itholah Trading. The agreement marks a strategic expansion for Indonesian health commodities in the Middle East.

US-Iran Peace Deal: Golkar Urges Government to Move Quickly to Repair Indonesia's Fiscal Health

The Golkar Party has welcomed the peace agreement between the United States and Iran, calling it a victory for multilateral diplomacy. The party's parliamentary faction leader urged the Indonesian government to swiftly capitalise on the deal to stabilise global oil prices and ease the fiscal burden caused by fuel subsidies and inflation. He stressed that normalising energy markets is a direct interest of the Indonesian people.

Meta Introduces 'AI Mode' on Facebook, Leveraging Platform Data

Meta has launched a new 'AI Mode' on Facebook that uses its AI to answer user queries based on content shared across its platforms, including Reels. The feature follows the quiet release of a Reddit-like app called Forum and is part of a broader push to integrate AI tools, such as new editing features and AI-powered photo presets, to enhance user engagement and diversify revenue streams.

Finance Minister Purbaya to Meet 15 Investors in China for Panda Bond Roadshow

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is set to begin a roadshow in China on 16 June 2026 to promote the country's inaugural Panda Bond issuance. The non-deal roadshow will involve meetings with 15 institutional investors, including Agricultural Bank of China and ICBC Wealth Management, as part of a broader strategy to diversify government financing away from US dollar-denominated debt. Following the China visit, the minister plans to continue the roadshow in Europe, targeting investors in the United Kingdom.

Production of Kaaba Kiswah Completed Using Advanced Technology

The final stage of manufacturing the new Kiswah for the Kaaba has been completed at the King Abdulaziz Complex in Mecca. The process utilised state-of-the-art machinery, including one of the world's largest sewing machines with advanced laser-guided controls, to ensure precision. This reflects Saudi Arabia's dedication to serving the Two Holy Mosques through a blend of skilled craftsmanship and modern technology.

Bank Mandiri's 'Desa Sahabat' Programme to Reach 28 Villages Along MJM 2026 Route

Bank Mandiri is expanding its corporate social responsibility initiative, 'Mandiri Sahabat Desa', to 28 villages along the Mandiri Jogja Marathon 2026 route. The programme, part of the bank's 28th anniversary, aims to improve rural infrastructure, empower local economies, and enhance social welfare. Activities include road repairs, village boundary construction, environmental clean-ups, and an UMKM festival to support local enterprises.

Tehran Insists Israel Is Bound by US-Iran Peace Deal

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that Israel is considered a party to any peace agreement with the United States, alongside Hezbollah. He stressed that hostilities cannot be considered fully concluded without a complete Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territories. Any further Israeli attacks on Lebanon would be treated as a violation of the peace memorandum.

On the Eve of Galungan, Klungkung Residents Scramble for Penjor Materials at the Last Minute

A day before the Galungan holiday, residents of Klungkung, Bali, flocked to Pasar Galiran to purchase bamboo, palm leaves, and decorative items for penjor poles. While some traders reported a surge in last-minute sales and less price haggling, suggesting improved economic conditions, others noted a decline in purchasing power as buyers opted for smaller, individual items. The mixed reports reflect varying consumer confidence ahead of the religious festival.

ATR/BPN Hands Over 243 Land Certificates for Waqf Assets in Central Java, Achievement Reaches 73%

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has symbolically handed over 243 waqf land certificates in Central Java as part of a national priority programme to secure legal certainty for religious assets. The certification rate in the province has reached 73%, exceeding the national average, though the ministry aims to achieve 95% within three years by addressing challenges such as deceased donors and unclear land boundaries.

Jakarta Provincial Government Opens 2,843 Vacancies, Here Are the Full Requirements

The Jakarta Provincial Government has launched a labour-intensive programme offering 2,843 short-term job vacancies across several municipal agencies. The initiative targets unemployed residents in lower economic deciles to provide temporary income. Roles will focus on the upkeep, arrangement, and maintenance of the city's environment.

Minister Tito to Revise Low-Income Definition and Remove Domicile Barriers for 3 Million Homes Programme

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian plans to revise the definition of low-income communities (MBR) and eliminate domicile restrictions to broaden access to the government's 3 million homes programme. The income threshold for unmarried individuals will be raised from Rp7 million to Rp8.5 million per month, while applicants will no longer be required to use their KTP domicile address. The policy shift aims to ensure more citizens can benefit from housing assistance, including exemptions from land and building acquisition fees and building permit retributions.

When Will US Fuel Prices Fall if Peace with Iran Is Achieved?

A tentative peace deal between the United States and Iran has sparked optimism that US petrol prices will decline from their current average of around US$4.06 per gallon. However, energy analysts caution that retail prices will fall slowly due to the 'rocket and feather' effect, predicting a drop to approximately US$3.75 by early July. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to gradually restore global oil supply, though prices are unlikely to return to pre-conflict levels without a major recession.

Drawing on Cabinet Experience, Pramono Pitches MRT Investment to Singapore

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has offered Singapore investment opportunities in the MRT Jakarta Phase 3 and 4 expansions and transit-oriented developments. During a meeting with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, he emphasised Jakarta's commitment to a transparent and consistent investment climate. Pramono highlighted his prior role as Cabinet Secretary as key to bridging national policy and regional implementation to build investor confidence.

Task Force Chief Urges Faster Post-Disaster Recovery, Says Survivors Should Not Languish in Hardship

The head of Sumatra's post-disaster rehabilitation task force has called for an acceleration of permanent recovery programmes in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, stressing that affected communities have endured hardship for seven months. Several ministries have received budget allocations, and the task force is pushing for swift execution and streamlined administrative processes to prevent delays and programme overlap.

Danantara's Inaugural USD 1.5 Billion Global Bond Oversubscribed by Global Investors

Danantara Indonesia's first global bond issuance was heavily oversubscribed, attracting USD 4.6 billion in orders against an initial USD 1 billion target, prompting an upsize to USD 1.5 billion. The issuance, split into five- and ten-year tranches, achieved competitive yields and saw dominant participation from US investors. The strong demand underscores robust international confidence in Indonesia's economic prospects and Danantara's strategic role.

Bareskrim Arrests Sugiono, Cannabis Dealer Who Disguised Drugs in Instant Noodle Boxes

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has arrested a man named Sugiono in Singosari, Malang, for allegedly distributing over 5 kilograms of cannabis. The drugs were creatively concealed inside boxes of instant noodles and shipped via an expedition service from Pekanbaru, Riau. Authorities are now pursuing an individual identified as CA, believed to be the controller of the narcotics network.

Police Reveal Motive of Man Who Stabbed Neighbour to Death in Central Jakarta

A 23-year-old man has been arrested for fatally stabbing his neighbour in Kemayoran, Central Jakarta. Police say the suspect acted out of resentment after the victim allegedly abandoned him at an Islamic boarding school in Garut. The investigation continues into the circumstances surrounding the abandonment and whether the attack was premeditated.

Gold Prices Fall, Trade Ministry Points to High Interest Rates

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade reports a 3.51% decline in the export benchmark price for gold in the second half of June 2026, driven by reduced investor appetite. High interest rates in advanced economies have made interest-bearing assets more attractive, dampening global demand for the precious metal.

Public Works Ministry Allocates Rp21 Billion to Restore Mangkunegaran Palace Core Zone

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works has committed Rp21 billion to renovate the core zone of the historic Mangkunegaran Palace in Surakarta, with work set to begin in 2026. The project will focus on structural reinforcement and architectural refreshment of the 22,000-square-metre heritage area, including the main pendopo hall, while strictly adhering to conservation principles. Officials emphasised that the restoration will involve cultural heritage experts and close coordination with the palace household to preserve the site's authenticity.

Denny JA Explains New Theory Behind the August 2025 Riots

Pollster Denny JA has proposed a new 'Digital Era Riot Theory' to explain the August 2025 unrest, arguing that classical social theories fail to account for the role of algorithms and a new vulnerable class. He identifies a 'Digitally Vulnerable Class' of platform workers, such as ride-hailing drivers and freelancers, who face simultaneous economic, algorithmic, and aspirational precarity. The theory suggests this group, driven by economic grievances amplified by digital networks, represents a new primary actor in modern social upheavals.

Thousands in Cianjur and Sukabumi Enthusiastically Join Torchlight Procession for Islamic New Year

Thousands of residents in Cianjur and Sukabumi, West Java, participated in torchlight parades to welcome the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah. Local leaders, including the regents of both districts, joined the processions, emphasising the occasion as a moment for spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and strengthening community bonds. The events featured prayers, religious recitations, and traditional festivities.

Palu City Government Temporarily Closes Palu III Bridge Following Magnitude 6.7 Earthquake

The Palu city administration has temporarily shut the Palu III Bridge after a magnitude 6.7 earthquake caused structural concerns. Traffic is being diverted to alternative routes while technical assessments are conducted to determine the bridge's safety. Authorities have urged the public to follow traffic signs and remain patient as inspections continue.

Public Discussion with State Officials at UGM Ends in Chaos, Officials Evacuated

A public discussion featuring three senior Indonesian officials at Gadjah Mada University descended into chaos after students unfurled protest banners and shouted slogans. The event, which included the Agrarian Minister, Deputy Agriculture Minister, and the Head of the Poverty Alleviation Agency, was cut short as the situation became uncontrollable, forcing the evacuation of the officials. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the government and student activists over freedom of expression and perceived democratic backsliding.