Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 June 2026

Showing 451-500 of 1,429 articles

Danantara Chief Pushes for Full Completion of State-Owned Insurance Merger by 2026

Indonesia's Danantara and the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises are accelerating the consolidation of state insurance firms under Indonesia Financial Group (IFG), targeting full merger completion by 2026. The initiative aims to strengthen the industry's structure, enhance efficiency, and build a more competitive and integrated insurance ecosystem. Officials discussed business integration, governance, and capital optimisation to ensure the merged entity can better support financial stability and national economic development.

Ciwandan Port Infrastructure Highlighted as National Logistics Backbone on Dock Day

PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Persero) Regional 2 Banten has showcased the integrated infrastructure of Ciwandan Port as a critical node in the national logistics chain during National Dock Day. The port's facilities, which include berths, jetties, and cargo handling areas, are designed to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations. Operational data from January to May 2026 shows the port handled 489 ship calls and 1.86 million tonnes of cargo, with dry bulk making up 58.4% of the volume.

Ambassador Encourages Indonesia-Japan Cooperation to Strengthen Economic Resilience

Indonesia's Ambassador to Japan, Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir, has called for enhanced bilateral cooperation based on 'trusted interdependence' to navigate global geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation. Speaking at a dialogue in Tokyo, she highlighted complementary strengths in resources and technology, while also emphasising collaboration on energy transition and the shift from transactional ties to an integrated partnership.

President Prabowo Cancels Visit to Russia, Here's the Reason from the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto has cancelled his attendance at the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan, citing a need to focus on domestic priorities. The State Secretary Minister noted that recent bilateral meetings with President Putin in Moscow and ASEAN leaders in the Philippines had already addressed key issues. The decision underscores the administration's current emphasis on resolving internal matters.

UK Commits to Supporting Indonesia in Preserving Maritime Resources

The United Kingdom has pledged to assist Indonesia in safeguarding its biodiverse maritime resources for future generations. The commitment was highlighted during the visit of the Royal Navy's HMS Tamar to Jakarta, which aims to bolster maritime security cooperation. The partnership includes plans for joint patrols and the potential provision of compatible frigates to the Indonesian Navy.

Cambodia scam centre leader extradited to China

A key figure in a Cambodian telecom fraud syndicate, Liu Ren, has been extradited to China following law enforcement cooperation between Beijing and Phnom Penh. Liu is accused of establishing scam operations that defrauded victims globally and of involvement in serious violent crimes. The extradition is part of a broader Chinese-led crackdown on cyber scam centres in Cambodia.

Minister pushes to retain digital economic value within Indonesia

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid has outlined a strategy to ensure the value generated by Indonesia's growing digital economy remains within the country. She emphasised two key approaches: retaining economic value domestically and ensuring digital growth boosts productivity in traditional sectors like fisheries. The minister noted that Indonesia, with its large population and stable GDP growth, is strategically positioned to prevent global tech platforms from monopolising the benefits of its digital expansion.

BPS Reminds Census Takers Not to Miss Any Residents in Kepri Economic Census

Indonesia's Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) has urged enumerators to ensure complete coverage and accurate data collection for the 2026 Economic Census in the Riau Islands. The census will target 197,000 business units and all households, including home-based and digital entrepreneurs, to provide a foundation for economic policy. Officials emphasised the use of live tracking and dashboards to monitor field progress in real time.

The 5 Most Dangerous Cybercrimes of 2026 and How to Prevent Them

The digital threat landscape in 2026 has evolved dramatically with the integration of advanced AI, giving rise to highly personalised and automated cybercrimes. This article outlines the five most dangerous types of cyberattacks facing individuals and corporations, including AI-driven phishing, real-time deepfake fraud, and quantum-era data harvesting. It underscores the urgent need for enhanced digital literacy and a shift towards more sophisticated security measures beyond traditional antivirus software.

OJK Says Banks Will Revise Business Plans This Month

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) expects banks to submit revised business plans (RBB) by the end of June, with the direction of revisions dependent on economic conditions. OJK's banking supervisor noted that stabilising rupiah exchange rates and recovering capital markets could encourage upward revisions, though the transmission of the BI Rate to lending rates involves a time lag.

UK Envoy: HMS Tamar Visit Proof of Strengthening RI-UK Ties

The visit of the Royal Navy patrol vessel HMS Tamar to Jakarta underscores the deepening maritime partnership between Indonesia and the United Kingdom. British Ambassador Dominic Jermey highlighted the visit as a tangible sign of stronger bilateral relations, while the ship's commander emphasised the UK's commitment to Indo-Pacific security and prosperity. The Indonesian Navy also welcomed the engagement as a valuable opportunity to enhance professional and defence cooperation.

Surviving Amidst the Squeeze of Fuel, Food, and Interest Rates

Indonesian households and businesses face a 'triple squeeze' from rising non-subsidised fuel prices, volatile food costs, and higher interest rates, threatening purchasing power and economic growth. This opinion piece argues that survival requires household consumption rationalisation and corporate digital transformation, while urging the government to stabilise food prices and protect the middle class. Without proactive, synergistic fiscal and monetary policies, the country risks a significant economic slowdown.

Dumai Police Seize 32 kg of Methamphetamine from Malaysia

Police in Dumai, Riau, have confiscated a total of 32 kilograms of methamphetamine originating from Malaysia in two separate operations. Four suspects have been arrested, with the drugs reportedly destined for Jambi and Aceh. The suspects face severe penalties under Indonesia's narcotics laws, including the death penalty or life imprisonment.

TNI Members Sentenced to 1-3 Years for Acid Attack on Andrie Yunus; Minister Pigai Urges Respect for Verdict

Four Indonesian military personnel have been sentenced to prison terms ranging from 1.5 to 3 years for a premeditated acid attack that severely injured KontraS deputy coordinator Andrie Yunus. Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai stated that all citizens must respect the court's decision. The verdict was delivered by the Jakarta Military Court II-08.

Gibran: Government Committed to Improving MBG and KDMP Governance

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has affirmed the government's commitment to enhancing the governance of the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) and the Village/Subdistrict Red and White Cooperatives (KDMP). The improvements aim to ensure effective, targeted, and corruption-free execution of the programmes. The government also plans to accelerate the operationalisation of up to 40,000 KDMP units by the end of 2026.

IHSG Closes Lower at 6,220 as Investors Await MSCI Announcement

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 0.55% to 6,220.74 on Wednesday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of key monetary policy decisions and the MSCI index review. Market participants are bracing for the Federal Reserve's FOMC meeting and Bank Indonesia's rate decision, with consensus expecting a 25 bps hike in the domestic benchmark rate.

WIKA Supports Public Works Ministry in Tapanuli Rehabilitation Through Sabo Dam and Riverbank Protection

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) is building sabo dams and riverbank protections in North Sumatra's Tapanuli region as part of a government-led post-disaster rehabilitation programme. The project, commissioned by the Ministry of Public Works, aims to mitigate future flash floods and sedimentation while employing over 150 local workers. Advanced GNSS LiDAR and photogrammetry technologies are being utilised to accelerate the works, which are targeted for completion by the end of 2026.

The 9th INAMICE 2026 Promotes Digital Transformation to Strengthen Jakarta's Smart Economy

The 9th Indonesia MICE Conference and Exhibition (INAMICE) 2026 convened in Jakarta to discuss the strategic role of the MICE industry in driving economic growth. The forum highlighted how digital transformation can strengthen Jakarta's smart economy, with data showing a single event can generate over Rp14.3 trillion in transactions. Key stakeholders from government, industry, and academia explored policy alignment and technology adoption to enhance the city's global competitiveness.

Viral Video Shows Man Attacking Two People with Sharp Weapon Outside Kupang Cafe, Turns Out to Be a Recidivist

A 22-year-old man, identified as a recidivist, was arrested after attacking two people with a machete outside a cafe in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. The incident, which went viral on social media, began when the intoxicated suspect sought his girlfriend and escalated into a violent assault on a civil servant and a technician. Police quickly apprehended the suspect at the scene and are conducting an intensive investigation.

Iran to Receive Rp 5,310 Trillion in Private Investment Following US Peace Deal

A US$ 300 billion private investment fund is being prepared for Iran as part of a peace agreement with the United States, aimed at ending hostilities and offering economic incentives. The Reconstruction and Development Fund will be financed by companies from the US, Gulf states, Asia, and elsewhere, targeting energy, logistics, and infrastructure sectors. The deal also requires Iran to dismantle its nuclear programme and accept strict inspections in exchange for the lifting of US blockades and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Vice President Gibran Commits to Improving MBG and Village Cooperative Governance to Prevent Corruption

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has affirmed the government's openness to public input and criticism regarding national priority programmes, including the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (KDMP). He stressed the commitment to improving governance to ensure these initiatives are effective, efficient, and free from corruption. The Vice President noted that such reforms are crucial for maintaining public trust and strengthening the nation's fiscal capacity and market confidence.

Prabowo extends Islamic New Year greetings to Muslim community

President Prabowo Subianto has conveyed Islamic New Year greetings to Indonesia's Muslim community, with State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi delivering the message from the presidential residence in Hambalang. The occasion also saw the president receive reports on the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage implementation and human resource development through education and technology collaborations. Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar separately called on Muslims to use the Hijri new year as a moment for personal and social transformation towards a more inclusive and civilised society.

BNN Chief: Global Narcotics Now Liquid, Entering Through Vapes

The head of Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) has warned that narcotics are increasingly being produced in liquid form, including liquid methamphetamine and cannabis, and are primarily entering circulation through e-cigarettes. The agency is proposing a total ban on vapes and urgently requires budget support to procure rapid test kits for detecting substances like etomidate, which it currently lacks. This equipment gap is hampering field enforcement and the ability to quickly confirm user status.

Said Abdullah on Falling Global Oil Prices: Indonesia's Fiscal Pressure Eases

The head of Indonesia's Budget Committee, Said Abdullah, has welcomed the recent drop in global oil prices, stating it reduces fiscal pressure on the country. Brent crude fell to a three-month low following a peace deal between the US and Iran. He noted that the government and parliament will begin calculating price adjustments next month based on a three-month average.

Ministry urges optimal critical mineral management amid global shifts

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has called for optimal management of critical minerals, highlighting their future role in global economic competitiveness. The country holds the world's largest nickel reserves and significant deposits of tin, bauxite, copper, and coal, positioning it strategically amid geopolitical tensions and the energy transition. The ministry stressed that energy security now depends on controlling strategic resources and adding domestic value to meet rising demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.

Minister Pigai Says Clearing of Bundaran HI Protesters Complied with Rules

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai stated that the police action to prevent student protesters from reaching Bundaran HI was a lawful regulation of assembly, not a restriction of rights. He argued that redirecting demonstrations to alternative locations aligns with the Siracusa Principles on permissible limitations. The remarks follow an incident where hundreds of students marching from Semanggi were blocked by a police cordon on Jalan MH Thamrin.

DJP Continues Pursuit of 200 Tax Delinquents, Collects Rp26 Trillion

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has collected approximately Rp26 trillion from a targeted group of 200 major tax delinquents. The sum includes Rp8 trillion gathered by the end of last year and an additional Rp17.9 trillion secured through a special forest area enforcement task force. The government is intensifying efforts to recover an estimated total of Rp60 trillion in outstanding tax debts that have been legally affirmed.

US Senate Again Rejects Bid to Curb Trump's War Powers Against Iran

The United States Senate has once more blocked a resolution aimed at limiting President Donald Trump's authority to wage war against Iran without congressional approval. The vote, which fell largely along party lines, marks the ninth such attempt this year and the first since a framework agreement was announced to end the Middle East conflict. The measure remains a largely symbolic challenge to the president's war policy.

B50 Mandate to Take Effect 1 July, Government Targets Foreign Exchange Savings of Rp 157.28 Trillion

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources announced that the B50 biodiesel mandate, effective 1 July 2026, is projected to save Rp 157.28 trillion in foreign exchange by reducing diesel imports. The policy is also expected to add Rp 24.68 trillion in value to crude palm oil, absorb 2.21 million workers, and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 46.72 million tonnes.

Central Sulawesi Corrections Office Confirms Prisons Remain Secure After 6.7 Magnitude Earthquake

The Central Sulawesi Regional Office of the Directorate General of Corrections has confirmed that all correctional facilities in the province remain safe and orderly following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake. Inspections revealed only minor structural cracks in some buildings, with no casualties or security disturbances reported among inmates or staff. Authorities are coordinating with public works and disaster agencies to ensure continued stability and readiness for potential aftershocks.

UI Student Body Denies Knowing 'BEM Bersatu', Suspects Attempt to Divide Student Movement

The University of Indonesia's Student Executive Body (BEM UI) has distanced itself from a newly emerged group called 'BEM Bersatu', which has sparked controversy by accusing former student leaders of political motives. Several campus organisations, including BEM FTI UBSI, have denied involvement after their names were allegedly used without permission. The situation has raised suspicions of an attempt to fracture the student movement amid ongoing protests against government policies.

Iranian oil tankers said to have left US blockade zone

Two Iranian supertankers carrying 3.8 million barrels of crude oil have reportedly departed the US blockade zone in the Gulf, marking Iran's first crude exports in two months. The movement was confirmed by maritime intelligence firm TankerTrackers using satellite imagery and AIS data.

Bandung Council Member Urges MSMEs to Seize Digital Era Opportunities

A Bandung City Council member has called for stronger synergy between government, academia, and business communities to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the creative economy. Indri Rindani stressed that policy alignment and robust networking are essential to overcome fiscal limitations and ensure local entrepreneurs benefit from central government programmes. She also encouraged young people and women to pursue economic independence by leveraging digital opportunities.

JKN PBPU BP Programme Supports Ahmad Through Year-Long Thyroid Treatment

A resident of West Java named Ahmad has received a full year of thyroid treatment funded by the local government's JKN PBPU BP health insurance programme. The case highlights the programme's role in providing sustained medical care for chronic conditions to citizens who might otherwise struggle to afford it. It underscores the government's commitment to universal health coverage through regional premium assistance schemes.

House Commission VII Appreciates ANTARA's Budget Increase in 2027 Work Plan

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission VII has praised the national news agency ANTARA for projecting a 30.67 percent budget increase in its 2027 Work Plan and Budget (RKAP). The commission urged ANTARA to ensure the realisation of its programmes amid tight media business competition. ANTARA's CEO stated the increased revenue target aims to strengthen the agency's role as a bulwark of state information against misinformation.

Maluku Quarantine Agency Oversees First Frozen Tuna Export to Thailand

The Maluku Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Agency (BKHIT) has facilitated the inaugural export of frozen tuna to Thailand, marking a strategic push to expand the region's fishery commodities into global markets. The agency provided full assistance to ensure compliance with international sanitary and technical standards. This initiative is part of broader efforts to boost Maluku's fishery exports, which rose to USD 54.30 million in 2025.

Government Committed to Overhauling Cooperatives Law, Says Minister

The Indonesian government has expressed its commitment to reforming the outdated Cooperatives Law, with Minister Ferry Juliantono highlighting the need for digitalisation, enhanced supervision, and deposit insurance. The proposed amendments aim to modernise the sector and restore cooperatives as a pillar of the national economy.

IHSG weakens to 6,220 ahead of MSCI release and interest rate 'wait and see'

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed 0.55 percent lower at 6,220.74 on Wednesday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of key domestic and global interest rate decisions. Market participants are also awaiting the MSCI Global Market Accessibility Review and FTSE rebalancing announcements later this week. The rupiah weakened slightly to Rp17,762 per US dollar, while the primary consumer goods and infrastructure sectors managed to post gains.

Depok City Government Builds Rp70 Billion Alternative Route to Ease Sawangan Congestion

The Depok City Government has commenced construction of an alternative road project worth Rp70 billion to alleviate chronic traffic congestion in the Sawangan area. The project involves widening Jalan Raya Pemuda and Jalan Raya Engram, with further phases planned to extend the route to Parung Bingung and connect to toll roads. The initiative is part of the newly elected mayor's campaign promise and is included in the city's 2026 medium-term development plan.

Constitutional Court Rejects Judicial Review of Police Law on External Postings

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has dismissed a judicial review challenging provisions of the National Police Law that allow active police officers to hold positions outside the force. The court upheld its previous rulings, declaring the contested phrase regarding external appointments constitutional and finding no new legal grounds to alter its stance.

After 6-Year Sentence, Bengawan Kamto Files Appeal

Jambi businessman Bengawan Kamto has appealed a six-year prison sentence for corruption related to a palm oil company's investment credit, arguing the case is a business dispute that should be handled under civil law. His legal team highlights a dissenting opinion from the presiding judge and expert testimony that credit defaults are business risks, not necessarily criminal acts. The appeal raises concerns about the criminalisation of business failures and its potential impact on the investment climate in Jambi.

Gibran Affirms Government's Commitment to Improve MBG Governance to Prevent Corruption

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has stated the government's commitment to reforming the management of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and the Village Red-and-White Cooperatives (KDMP) to ensure they are effective and free from corruption. The improvements aim to guarantee that every rupiah spent benefits the public and to bolster both public trust and market confidence in the national economy. The government views the MBG programme as a political contract from President Prabowo's campaign that must continue despite implementation challenges.

Jambi Quarantine Detains Undocumented Animals from Riau Islands at Port

The Jambi Animal, Fish and Plant Quarantine Agency has tightened biosecurity by detaining animals and plants arriving from the Riau Islands without official documentation at Kuala Tungkal port. The action underscores the agency's commitment to preventing the spread of pests and diseases that could harm the local economy and food security. Officials cited violations of national quarantine laws and ministerial regulations governing the movement of agricultural commodities.

Prabowo Orders Acceleration of Garlic Self-Sufficiency, Rp400 Billion Prepared

The Indonesian government is allocating nearly Rp400 billion to boost domestic garlic seed production as part of President Prabowo Subianto's push for self-sufficiency. The programme targets 5,000 hectares of seed breeding this year, with plans to expand to 100,000 hectares of cultivation to reduce reliance on imports. The main challenge identified is not land or farmer interest, but the availability of suitable seeds for Indonesia's agro-climatic conditions.

Leaked Draft Agreement Suggests Iran Could Suddenly Become Wealthy

A leaked draft of a US-Iran memorandum of understanding outlines a potential deal that would unlock over $300 billion for Iran and lift sanctions. The agreement, expected to be signed in Switzerland, includes provisions for ending military operations and releasing frozen Iranian assets. The economic rehabilitation plan could dramatically transform Iran's financial situation if finalised.

Wife with Suspected Mental Illness Stays with Husband's Body for Six Days in Serang

A woman believed to be suffering from a mental disorder remained with her deceased husband's body for six days in their home in Serang, Banten. Neighbours discovered the body after noticing a foul odour, and police confirmed the 68-year-old man had a history of diabetes. Authorities have evacuated the body for forensic examination and urged the public to report any incidents requiring assistance.

Pigai: Komnas HAM Does Not Understand Human Rights Principles

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has sharply criticised the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) for alleging human rights violations in the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme. Pigai argued the assessment was premature as the project is still under development and that operational issues like food poisoning should be addressed through evaluation, not labelled as rights violations. The dispute follows Komnas HAM's announcement of eight preliminary findings indicating fundamental problems in the flagship Prabowo administration initiative.

Constitutional Court Rejects Judicial Review of Political Party Law, Says Leadership Disputes Not Its Domain

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has largely rejected a judicial review petition against the Political Party Law, ruling that the Minister of Law's authority to validate party leadership is necessary for legal certainty. The court also declared that internal party leadership disputes fall outside its jurisdiction, as the law already provides resolution mechanisms through party tribunals and the courts.

Legislator Criticises Tourism Minister's Request for Additional Rp 1.99 Trillion Budget: 'Argument is Flawed'

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has sharply criticised the Tourism Minister's request for a nearly 200% budget increase, calling the justification 'fatal'. The legislator argued that historical data shows the tourism sector generates higher foreign exchange earnings with smaller state budgets, suggesting the industry operates effectively on 'autopilot' without excessive state funding.

Indonesia to Renovate 2 Million Uninhabitable Homes Next Year

The Indonesian government plans to renovate over 2 million uninhabitable houses in 2027 as part of its flagship 3 million homes programme. The initiative, primarily funded through the Self-Help Housing Stimulant Assistance scheme, will absorb the largest share of the proposed Rp106 trillion budget. A significant portion of the funds will also be allocated to building 50,000 new apartment units to address growing urban housing demand.