Archive: 17 June 2026
Showing 651-700 of 1,429 articles
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:09 WIB
Jakarta Provincial Government Opens 2,843 Vacancies in 2026 Labour-Intensive Programme
The Jakarta provincial government has announced 2,843 job openings under its 2026 Padat Karya (labour-intensive) programme, offering wages equivalent to the provincial minimum wage of approximately Rp5.7 million per month. The initiative, championed by Governor Pramono Anung, aims to reduce unemployment and stimulate the local economy by deploying workers across environmental, infrastructure, and water resource agencies. Registration is open exclusively to Jakarta ID card holders via the official government website.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:08 WIB
Discipline Seen as Key to Preserving Hajj Virtue After Pilgrimage
Indonesian Hajj pilgrims have been urged to maintain the spiritual values gained during their pilgrimage upon returning home, with discipline in daily worship highlighted as a crucial factor. A senior Hajj guidance official emphasised that lessons in patience, equality, solidarity, and humility learned in the Holy Land should be reflected in social life in Indonesia. The experience of standing together in simple attire at Arafah is cited as a powerful reminder of human equality before God, regardless of social status.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:06 WIB
PKB Instructs Regional Branches to Engage in Dialogue with Students
The National Awakening Party (PKB) has ordered its regional executive councils to hold productive dialogues with university students following protests against the Free Nutritious Meals and Red and White Village Cooperatives programmes. PKB Deputy Chairman Faisol Riza acknowledged that the government's messaging on these priority programmes has not been effectively communicated to students. He also admitted there have been governance issues and legal violations in the programmes' implementation, citing the recent detention of a National Nutrition Agency official as proof the government is not turning a blind eye.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:06 WIB
Government Moves Swiftly to Handle Earthquake Victims, Says State Secretary Minister
State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi has stated that the government is rapidly coordinating with various parties, including the Central Sulawesi provincial government, to ensure optimal handling of earthquake victims. A magnitude 5.1 aftershock struck the region early Wednesday following a larger 6.7 magnitude quake near Palu the previous day. The government is urging the public to remain vigilant against potential aftershocks and to rely on official information sources.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:06 WIB
US-Iran Peace Deal Details Emerge: Strait of Hormuz to Reopen
Details of a temporary peace agreement between the United States and Iran have surfaced, with a memorandum of understanding expected to be signed in Switzerland on 19 June. The deal aims to extend the current ceasefire, reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz for energy shipments, and allow Iran to resume oil sales in exchange for easing US sanctions. The agreement also touches on broader regional security involving Israel and Lebanon, though significant hurdles remain regarding Iran's nuclear programme.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:05 WIB
Company Director Fined Rp2.11 Billion for Filing False Tax Returns
A Denpasar court has sentenced a company director to one year in prison and a Rp2.11 billion fine for tax crimes that caused over Rp1 billion in state revenue losses. The Director General of Taxes emphasised the case as a last-resort enforcement measure after the taxpayer failed to utilise multiple opportunities to settle his obligations. The ruling serves as a deterrent to ensure tax compliance and protect public finances.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:05 WIB
From Gaming World to Social Action: RMC Distributes Humanitarian Aid to Aceh Residents
The Roblox Muslim Community (RMC), a digital and gaming-based group, has channelled humanitarian aid to disaster-affected residents in Aceh. Funds were raised online through platforms like Discord and TikTok, with distribution carried out via the Global Sedekah Movement. The initiative, spanning late 2025 to mid-2026, included food packages, Ramadan meals, and sacrificial meat for Eid al-Adha.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:05 WIB
The Mystery of the Toba Ruler's Missing Tonne of Gold, Carried Away by 17 Horses
The Sisingamangaraja dynasty, which ruled the Toba region for over 300 years, amassed a fortune in gold and jewels through a monopoly on the camphor trade. Historical accounts suggest that during an 1818 attack by Padri forces, approximately one tonne of gold was looted and transported by 17 horses. The dynasty's wealth, including gems believed to have ended up in Queen Victoria's crown, highlights a remarkable story of long-term investment and colonial-era plunder.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:05 WIB
Human Rights Ministry Refutes Komnas HAM: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Is Rights Fulfilment, Not Violation
Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights has rejected the National Human Rights Commission's (Komnas HAM) claim that the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) shows strong indications of human rights violations. The ministry argues the programme is a concrete fulfilment of basic rights, particularly the right to food and improved quality of life. It acknowledged governance shortcomings but insisted these do not constitute rights violations, while also criticising Komnas HAM's assessment methodology.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:04 WIB
FAO: Asia leads global aquatic animal production growth
Asia accounted for 76 per cent of global aquatic animal and algae production in 2024, reaching 179 million tonnes, according to the FAO's latest fisheries and aquaculture report. Aquaculture remains the primary growth driver, with China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh among the top producers. The region's dominance reflects decades of investment in aquaculture, innovation, and value chains.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:04 WIB
Body in Black Jacket Found Floating off Kuta Beach Sparks Search
A body wearing a black jacket was spotted floating in the waters off Kuta Beach, Bali, prompting a search by local lifeguards and police. Despite two extensive sweeps, the body has not yet been recovered, and authorities are investigating whether the death resulted from an accident or foul play. Officials are continuing patrols and awaiting reports of missing persons from the public.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:04 WIB
Attorney General's Office to Examine Sony Sonjaya Tomorrow in MBG Corruption Case
The Indonesian Attorney General's Office will question former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, as a suspect on Thursday in connection with alleged corruption in the 2025-2026 Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Sonjaya has previously applied to become a justice collaborator, claiming he was pressured by influential figures to manipulate the allocation of kitchen service points. The case involves several other high-ranking former officials and a company commissioner.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:03 WIB
Minister P2MI dispatches 313 migrant workers under G-to-G scheme to Japan
Indonesia's Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) has dispatched 313 workers to Japan under the government-to-government IJ-EPA framework. The cohort, comprising nurses and elderly care assistants, will take up contracts offering competitive salaries and career development opportunities. The minister highlighted the scheme's role in strengthening bilateral economic ties and urged the workers to uphold Indonesia's reputation abroad.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:02 WIB
Ukrainian Drone Attacks on Moscow Intensify, Russia Deploys Air Defences
Russia's Defence Ministry reported intercepting 172 Ukrainian drones overnight, including a large wave targeting Moscow, marking one of the most significant attacks on the capital in 2026. The assault caused damage to a Moscow oil refinery and a storage facility in Krasnodar, while Ukrainian President Zelensky confirmed the strikes as part of a strategy of 'long-range sanctions' against Russia. The escalation highlights the increasing use of long-range drones targeting energy infrastructure in the ongoing conflict.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:01 WIB
Students Stage Protest at Yogyakarta's Zero Kilometre Point This Afternoon
Hundreds of students from the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) alliance staged a protest at the city's Zero Kilometre Point, causing police to close road access. The demonstrators, many wearing red blazers, voiced eight demands including criticism of US imperialism's influence on Indonesia's economy and the weakening rupiah. Other groups joined the action, raising local issues such as unresolved street crime, a waste emergency, and infrastructure deficiencies on the Ring Road.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:01 WIB
Industry Ministry Boosts Food SME Contribution via IFI 2026 Programme
Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is intensifying efforts to strengthen the national economy by focusing its annual Indonesia Food Innovation (IFI) 2026 programme on small and medium food enterprises. The initiative prioritises the development of intermediate products to enhance competitiveness, reduce food waste, and expand business-to-business market access. The programme aligns with a presidential regulation on food diversification and is supported by planned fiscal incentives for local resource-based food systems.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:01 WIB
President Prabowo extends Islamic New Year greetings to all Muslims
President Prabowo Subianto has conveyed his wishes for the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah to the Muslim community. The message was delivered by his representative at his residence in Hambalang, where the President also received reports on the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage and discussed human resource development and critical mineral cooperation. Separately, the Minister of Religious Affairs called on Muslims to use the occasion for personal and social transformation.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:00 WIB
Key Announcement Tomorrow to Impact Your Savings and Loan Instalments
Bank Indonesia is widely expected to raise its benchmark interest rate at its upcoming meeting, with a narrow majority of economists polled forecasting a 25 basis point hike to 5.75%. The decision, which follows two recent surprise increases, is aimed at stabilising the rupiah amid global capital flow competition, but will directly affect deposit and lending rates for consumers.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 16:00 WIB
DSS Jaga Rimba Strengthens Forestry Ministry's Digital Transformation
Indonesia's Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has highlighted the role of the new 'Jaga Rimba' Decision Support System in modernising forest governance. The digital platform integrates cross-directorate data and geospatial information to enhance transparency, simplify licensing, and improve investment monitoring. It also features an early warning system to detect overlapping permits and potential forest fires.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:59 WIB
Komnas HAM Receives Complaint of Alleged Sexual Violence at Palm Oil Company
Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has received a complaint regarding an alleged sexual assault against a deaf-mute disabled worker at a palm oil plantation in North Sumatra. The case, reported seven months after the incident, has seen slow progress from local police, prompting concerns of delayed justice. The victim, a daily casual labourer, has reportedly faced intimidation, lack of psychological support, and informal dismissal after speaking out.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:59 WIB
Trump Suggests Syria Fight Hezbollah If Israel Cannot
US President Donald Trump has proposed that Syria take over the fight against Hezbollah, arguing Israel's military operations in Lebanon have caused excessive civilian casualties. Speaking at the G7 summit, Trump praised Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's ability to handle the Iran-backed group while also issuing rare public criticism of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's tactics. The remarks signal a potential shift in Washington's approach to the Lebanon conflict.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:59 WIB
MTI Urges National Nutrition Agency to Prioritise Transparency and Accountability
The Indonesian Transparency Society (MTI) is pressing the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to adopt greater openness and public accountability following a corruption scandal. The call comes after a lack of comprehensive official explanation regarding programme continuity and budget evaluation, with MTI emphasising that managing large-scale state funds for the free nutritious meal programme demands clear public communication.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:58 WIB
West Java Legislator: Cirebon Has the Assets to Become a Main Pillar of the Rebana Region
A West Java legislator has highlighted Cirebon's strong potential to become a key economic pillar within the Rebana metropolitan area, citing its relatively complete supporting infrastructure, particularly in hospitality. He stressed that the success of the Rebana development hinges on optimising strategic assets like Kertajati Airport and Patimban Port. Cirebon's historical and cultural heritage is also seen as an added value to support regional growth.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:57 WIB
Prabowo receives Hajj report from supervisory team at Hambalang
President Prabowo Subianto met with the Hajj Supervisory Team and Hajj Ministry officials at his private residence in Hambalang to receive an evaluation report on the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. The report includes around 20 improvement points, with key focus areas being pilgrim movement in Armuzna and the health eligibility policy. The government plans to tighten health requirements for the 2027 season after noting a reduction in pilgrim fatalities from 104 in 2025 to 65 in 2026.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:57 WIB
KPK Requests Rp 726 Billion Budget Increase for 2027, Sahroni Quips: 'Ask for Rp 5 Trillion, That's Too Little'
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has proposed an additional budget of Rp 762.30 billion for 2027 after its indicative ceiling was cut by 22 percent. During a parliamentary hearing, House Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni expressed surprise at the modest request, urging the KPK to ask for Rp 5 trillion instead, citing President Prabowo Subianto's earlier statement that the anti-graft body would receive whatever funding it needed.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:56 WIB
Minister Meutya Hafid Highlights Digital Growth to Strengthen Domestic Economy
Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid has stressed that Southeast Asia's booming digital economy must translate into real domestic strength rather than merely enriching foreign platforms. She outlined a two-pronged strategy focusing on retaining economic value within national infrastructure and ensuring digitalisation boosts productivity across the real economy. Indonesia's large population and robust GDP growth position it strategically to lead this transformation.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:56 WIB
ANTARA Proposes 2027 PSO Budget Increase to Strengthen National Information Defence
Indonesia's national news agency ANTARA has proposed a significant increase in its Public Service Obligation (PSO) budget for 2027, from Rp181.91 billion to Rp311 billion. The agency argues the additional funding is needed to counter growing disinformation on social media and 'homeless media', and to treat the PSO as a strategic state investment rather than mere survival funding. The plan includes expanding social media content, strengthening regional media ecosystems, and reopening overseas bureaus for intelligence and financial data gathering.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:55 WIB
Minister: 25,000 Tour Guides Nationally Certified
Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana announced that over 25,000 tour guides across Indonesia have now obtained competency certification. The government is intensifying its focus on tourism safety following a rise in recorded incidents, making it a flagship programme aimed at achieving zero accidents. Training and certification efforts in 2026 are prioritising occupational health and safety in high-risk activities such as mountain trekking and water sports.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:55 WIB
Jakarta Focuses 'Adminduk Aware Village' Programme on 500 RWs
The Jakarta Population and Civil Registration Agency (Dukcapil) is concentrating its Kampung Sadar Administrasi Kependudukan (KAMSA) programme on 500 community units (RW) to boost direct education and services for civil administration. The initiative, linked to Jakarta's upcoming 500th anniversary, aims to ensure residents possess essential documents to access their civil rights and public services. The programme involves collaboration with local officials and community organisations across 267 urban villages.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:54 WIB
KPK examines PT PP employee as witness in Indonesia-Japan joint venture case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned a PT PP employee and a lawyer as witnesses in a graft investigation involving PPT Energy Trading, a joint venture between Pertamina and Japanese firms. The probe concerns alleged corruption in capital investment and long-term loan management at the company between 2015 and 2022. The case is also linked to a separate investigation into suspected corruption in LNG procurement at Pertamina.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:53 WIB
Deputy Minister Ensures Optimal Postpartum Family Planning Services in Denpasar
Deputy Minister for Population and Family Development, Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka, has confirmed the optimisation of postpartum family planning services in Denpasar, Bali, ahead of National Family Day. The initiative promotes long-term contraceptive methods to help mothers space pregnancies and focus on exclusive breastfeeding. The government aims to strengthen synergy between central and local authorities to improve access and support quality family development towards the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:53 WIB
Agriculture Minister Targets Garlic Self-Sufficiency in Three Years
Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has set a three-year target for the country to achieve self-sufficiency in garlic. The plan involves building an integrated ecosystem from seed production to marketing, with government guarantees on pricing and support for farmers. The initiative aims to drastically reduce Indonesia's heavy reliance on garlic imports.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:53 WIB
Student Organisations Deny Involvement in 'BEM Bersatu' Alliance
Several Indonesian student organisations have publicly denied any affiliation with the newly emerged 'BEM Bersatu' alliance, which accused former UGM student leader Tiyo Ardianto of having political backing. The alliance claimed Ardianto's actions were linked to a retired general with ties to the PDI-P party, but the named student bodies say their identities were misused. The PDI-P has also dismissed the allegations as baseless and an insult to the independence of student movements.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:52 WIB
US-Iran Deal: New Surprise Emerges from the Strait of Hormuz
Three Iranian tankers have reportedly breached a US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, carrying nearly five million barrels of crude oil in the first such shipment in two months. The movement signals cautious preparation for resumed trade ahead of a formal peace agreement signing in Geneva on Friday, which is expected to lift embargoes on Iranian oil sales. Despite the diplomatic breakthrough, the maritime industry remains highly sceptical, with insurers demanding proof of sustained safety before normal commercial traffic resumes.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:52 WIB
ESDM: Coal Production Quota to Exceed 600 Million Tonnes
Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has confirmed it will relax coal production quotas, allowing output to surpass 600 million tonnes in response to soaring global prices. The policy shift follows a spike in coal prices triggered by geopolitical conflict, reversing an earlier planned cut aimed at balancing oversupply. The government is also working to secure an additional 20 million tonnes to meet domestic power generation needs.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:52 WIB
Ministry promotes local wisdom to restore degraded land
Indonesia's Environment Ministry is leveraging indigenous knowledge and a national 'ecological repentance' movement to combat land degradation. The initiative includes planting two billion trees and using bamboo for ecosystem restoration, while also developing a roadmap to protect local wisdom in biodiversity conservation. The ministry emphasises that success will be measured by public participation and awareness, not just the number of trees planted.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:51 WIB
State Secretary Calls Central Sulawesi Governor After M 6.7 Quake, Ensures Smooth Response
State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has expressed condolences and personally contacted Central Sulawesi Governor Anwar Hafid following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake that killed one person and injured dozens. The minister emphasised the need for optimal handling of the disaster and urged the public to remain vigilant against aftershocks. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reported that over 1,200 homes were damaged and more than 5,700 people were affected across Palu, Sigi, Parigi Moutong, and Poso.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:51 WIB
Pertamax Price Adjustment Must Be Viewed Within Framework of Sustainable Energy Policy
A Golkar Party legislator argues that the recent Pertamax fuel price increase should be seen as part of a broader strategy to maintain national energy sustainability while protecting the public. He noted the adjustment reflects rising global crude prices and geopolitical uncertainty, but emphasised that the government continues to sell Pertamax below its economic cost and will maintain subsidies for Pertalite, Solar, and LPG until 2026.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:50 WIB
Hajj Pilgrims Reminded Not to Store Power Banks in Checked Luggage
Garuda Indonesia's passenger handling staff have reminded Hajj pilgrims departing from Madinah that power banks must not be placed in checked baggage. Pilgrims are instructed to carry power banks and metal items such as rings, watches, and belts in their hand luggage instead. The directive aims to ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations during the return journey.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:50 WIB
Suspected Ukrainian Terrorist Accomplices Arrested in Russia
Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) has detained three individuals across three regions for allegedly collaborating with Ukrainian intelligence to plot terrorist attacks. The suspects are accused of planning sabotage against Russian military personnel, volunteer organisations, and transport and energy infrastructure. Criminal cases have been opened concerning the preparation of terrorist acts and illegal possession of explosives.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:50 WIB
Luhut Reveals the Future of the World Lies in the Hands of a Few Wealthy Individuals
National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has warned that global power will increasingly be concentrated among a handful of billionaires who control advanced AI infrastructure. He urged Indonesian universities to sharpen their research focus and announced a 'Brain Health Factory' programme to nurture young talent with exceptionally high IQs to compete in the artificial intelligence era.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:49 WIB
Tulikup Market in Gianyar Catches Fire, Seven Kiosks Destroyed
A fire broke out at the Tulikup Traditional Market in Gianyar, Bali, destroying seven kiosks on the western side. The blaze, which occurred around midday when the stalls were closed, caused no casualties but resulted in estimated material losses of Rp 300 million. Authorities suspect an electrical short circuit as the preliminary cause.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:48 WIB
Like 'Gaza' in Lenteng Agung
Over 150 homes in Lenteng Agung, South Jakarta, have been demolished by the Indonesian Army, leaving a landscape of rubble that residents likened to a war zone. The evictions, which began in early June 2026, targeted dwellings deemed to be on state-owned land. Affected residents, some of whom had lived there since the 1950s, claim they were forced out without any compensation.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:48 WIB
Critical minerals will determine global economic competitiveness
Indonesia's Energy Ministry asserts that critical minerals will be a key determinant of future global economic competitiveness. The country must therefore manage its substantial mineral and coal resources optimally, sustainably, and with added value. Indonesia holds significant reserves, including the world's largest coal deposits and the second-largest tin reserves.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:48 WIB
BGN Clarifies Rp 270 Trillion Budget Ceiling for 2027 Is Not Final
The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has clarified that the Rp 270 trillion indicative budget ceiling for 2027 is not final and was drafted under previous leadership. The new BGN management is currently coordinating with the Ministry of Finance and Bappenas to revise the figure, stating the number of beneficiaries for the free nutritious meal programme will be significantly reduced.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:47 WIB
KPK Summons Deputy Speaker of Pekalongan DPRD and Golkar Staff in Bribery Probe
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned the Deputy Speaker of the Pekalongan Regional House of Representatives and a local Golkar Party staffer as witnesses in a graft case involving the district's regent. The investigation centres on allegations that non-active Regent Fadia Arafiq steered procurement contracts to a family-owned company, resulting in illicit gains of approximately Rp19 billion.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:47 WIB
Pramono Offers Singapore Investment in Jakarta TOD and MRT Projects
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung met Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to discuss potential Singaporean investment in Jakarta's Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) projects and MRT Phase 3 and 4 expansions. Pramono highlighted his experience as a bridge between national and regional policy to ensure investment certainty. The proposed projects aim to integrate residential, commercial, and office areas with mass transit, supporting Jakarta's transformation into a global city.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:47 WIB
Prabowo Cancels Visit to Russia
President Prabowo Subianto has cancelled his attendance at the ASEAN-Russia Summit in Kazan, opting to focus on domestic issues. The Minister of State Secretary confirmed the decision, noting that Prabowo had already discussed bilateral matters with President Putin during a recent meeting. Technical follow-ups on cooperation commitments are reportedly underway.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:46 WIB
LAN to Integrate Anti-Corruption Material into Civil Servant Performance Assessments
Indonesia's National Institute of Public Administration (LAN) will embed anti-corruption education into the performance evaluation process for all civil servants (ASN), from new recruits to senior leaders. The initiative, launched alongside a nationwide e-learning programme, aims to strengthen integrity and ensure officials understand the legal and ethical risks of corrupt practices. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) targets reaching 6.7 million civil servants through the programme, with full implementation planned by 2029.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 15:46 WIB
Tiyo Ardianto Challenges Accusers: 'Jail Me and Cut Off My Ears If I'm Lying' About Car Tracker Discovery
Former UGM student leader Tiyo Ardianto has vehemently denied allegations that his discovery of tracking devices on his vehicle was fabricated. Speaking at a national dialogue event in Makassar, he challenged his accusers to imprison him and cut off his ears if he is proven to have lied to the public. He also claimed there is a coordinated effort to divert public attention from the serious security threat he faced.