Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 June 2026

Showing 951-1,000 of 1,429 articles

Hanania Travel Fraud Victims Rise, Losses Reach Rp35.3 Billion

The number of victims in the Hanania Travel umrah and hajj fraud case has grown to 1,286, with total losses now exceeding Rp35.3 billion. A third wave of reports submitted to Polda Metro Jaya includes 620 new victims and reveals the scheme also targeted prospective hajj pilgrims, who paid deposits but never received their official hajj registration numbers. Legal representatives are facilitating collective reporting due to victims being spread across Indonesia, from Papua to Makassar.

BPDP Showcases Plantation Product Innovations at ITTIE 2026

The Indonesian Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) exhibited innovative downstream products derived from palm oil, coconut, and cocoa at the Indonesia Tourism and Trade Investment Expo (ITTIE) 2026. The event aimed to expand market access for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and highlight the high-value potential of plantation commodity processing. BPDP's booth, which featured items like palm-based batik dyes and bulletproof vests, won awards for Best and Most Innovative Stand.

Does the Iran War Threaten US Superpower Status?

The recent US-Iran conflict, initiated by President Trump, has exposed the limits of American military power despite a ceasefire agreement. Analysts suggest the war has weakened Washington's global standing, particularly its role as guarantor of freedom of navigation, while potentially granting Iran new leverage over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Governor Khofifah Calls for Stronger Collaboration to Build a Generation with Character and Resilience

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has urged all elements of society to strengthen collaboration in nurturing a generation of young people with strong character and resilience. Speaking at a national church conference in Surabaya, she highlighted the strategic role of religious institutions in addressing complex challenges such as mental health issues and online loan traps. The Governor emphasised that character building requires synergy between families, government, and religious bodies, not just schools.

Ministry of Law pushes for cross-ministerial evaluation of digital government system

The Ministry of Law is advocating for a collaborative, cross-ministerial evaluation of Indonesia's Electronic-Based Government System (SPBE) to accelerate digital transformation. Minister Supratman Andi Agtas noted that despite existing policy frameworks, implementation has not been optimal and requires joint assessment. The initiative aims to produce actionable policy recommendations that improve regulation and public service delivery.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport Opens New Routes to China

Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is set to launch new direct flights to Guangzhou and Shenzhen operated by China's Spring Airlines starting June 2026. The expansion aims to boost tourism, trade, and investment between Indonesia and China. The airport now serves 69 airlines and connects to 123 international destinations.

Called Out by Purbaya on Under Invoicing, Here Are Salim Ivomas' Cases

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has named PT Salim Ivomas Pratama Tbk among companies suspected of under invoicing and transfer pricing in CPO exports. The agribusiness giant has a history of regulatory scrutiny, including a KPPU fine for restricting cooking oil supply during the 2022 shortage. Despite these legal challenges, the company reported a 13% increase in gross profit in 2025.

Presence of Officials on Campus Said to Reflect Government Openness

A political analyst argues that the recent visit of three high-ranking officials to Gadjah Mada University demonstrates the government's openness to criticism. The forum, which included the Head of the Poverty Alleviation Agency and two ministers, was intended for dialogue but was disrupted by protests. The analyst contends that such direct engagement between officials and students is crucial for a healthy democracy.

Jakarta Provincial Government Opens 2,843 Jobs, Requires KTP Jakarta

The Jakarta provincial government is launching a 'Padat Karya' (labour-intensive) programme in 2026, creating 2,843 jobs exclusively for residents holding a Jakarta ID card. The initiative, announced by Governor Pramono Anung, is designed as a short-term social safety net to provide income amid growing economic pressures. Participants will receive wages equivalent to the Jakarta provincial minimum wage of approximately Rp5.7 million per month.

IKM Vows to Monitor Legal Process, Urges Bareskrim to Name Abu Janda a Suspect

The Minang Family Association (IKM) has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing legal action against social media figure Permadi Arya, known as Abu Janda, for allegedly insulting the people of West Sumatra. Following a clarification session at the National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim), IKM insists its legal standing is solid and is urging investigators to formally name him a suspect. The organisation argues that the remarks constitute a criminal offence of group defamation under the new Criminal Code and the Electronic Information and Transactions Law.

IKM Asserts Legal Standing in Police Report Against Abu Janda for Allegedly Insulting West Sumatra Residents

The Ikatan Keluarga Minang (IKM) has affirmed its legal standing to report social media figure Permadi Arya, known as Abu Janda, to the police for allegedly calling West Sumatrans 'barbarians'. The organisation argues the statement constitutes a criminal insult against a specific population group under Indonesian law. Abu Janda has responded by denying the accusation, claiming he did not insult the people of West Sumatra.

Ahead of Panda Bond Issuance, Purbaya Visits Beijing to Meet Chinese Finance Minister

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa visited Beijing to meet his Chinese counterpart Lan Fo'an, as part of preparations for a sovereign Panda Bond issuance. The move is a strategic effort to diversify Indonesia's development financing sources and deepen economic ties with China. The meeting also aimed to bolster local currency transaction frameworks and strengthen bilateral financial cooperation.

Minister Reports No Significant Damage to Campuses After Palu Earthquake

Indonesia's Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology stated that no significant structural damage to university buildings has been reported following the 6.7 magnitude earthquake in Palu, Central Sulawesi. While some minor cracks, fallen laboratory equipment, and collapsed ceiling panels were noted, campus operations remain largely unaffected. The assessment comes as authorities continue to monitor over 100 aftershocks recorded in the region.

PPATK Proposes Rp 516.4 Billion Budget Increase for 2027 to Combat Money Laundering

Indonesia's Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) has requested an additional Rp 516.4 billion for the 2027 fiscal year, citing a significant shortfall in its indicative budget ceiling. The extra funds are earmarked for bolstering anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing efforts, including enhanced analysis, compliance monitoring, and international cooperation. The agency's total proposed budget of Rp 769.8 billion far exceeds the Rp 253.3 billion allocated by the Ministry of Finance.

Deputy Minister Denies Corruption Involvement in Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Deputy Minister for Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions Ahmad Riza Patria has denied any involvement in the alleged corruption case surrounding the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He stated that his ministry's role is limited to coordination and village empowerment, and he does not own or manage any nutritional service units (SPPG). Riza Patria urged the public to respect the ongoing legal process and uphold the presumption of innocence.

Rosan Requests Additional Rp578 Billion Budget for Investment Ministry from DPR

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani has requested an additional budget of Rp578.93 billion from the House of Representatives (DPR) for the 2027 fiscal year. The Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming requires a minimum of Rp1.2 trillion to operate, but the indicative budget ceiling was set at only Rp625.14 billion. The ministry is tasked with achieving a combined domestic and foreign investment realisation target of Rp2,322 trillion in 2027, a 13.8 percent increase from the previous year's target.

Digitalisation of Social Assistance Could Save State Rp260 Trillion, Says Luhut: Corruption Reduced

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Chairman of the National Economic Council, has stated that the digitalisation of Indonesia's social assistance programme could yield state savings of up to Rp260 trillion. The AI-based system is designed to improve targeting accuracy and significantly reduce opportunities for corruption. The estimate remains strategic and contingent on successful data integration and system expansion.

Mysterious Fire Terror Disappears for Three Days from Seyegan Resident's Home

The unexplained fires that plagued a house in Seyegan, Sleman, have ceased for three days after the family evacuated flammable items. BPBD Sleman has handed over academic research findings from UGM, UPN, and BBPTKG to the homeowner, while the police have now taken over the investigation.

Ecological Pride Symbol: Community and BKSDA Propose Bali Starling Day

Conservationists and the Bali Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) are pushing for a national 'Hari Curik Bali' (Bali Starling Day) to protect the critically endangered bird endemic to the island. The proposal aims to raise public awareness and secure broader support for conservation efforts amid rising illegal wildlife trade. Proposed dates include 9 April, marking a past release event, or 24 March, the date of the species' first discovery in 1911.

Forestry Minister Launches DSS Jaga Rimba to Simplify Forest Management

Indonesia's Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has launched the Decision Support System (DSS) Jaga Rimba, a digital platform designed to integrate over 300 separate applications into a single, transparent forest management system. The initiative aims to eliminate sectoral ego, prevent overlapping land-use permits, and provide the minister with real-time oversight. The system is expected to streamline business licensing, attract investment, and align with the President's digital government goals for 2025-2029.

Verification of home renovation aid recipients reaches 300,000 units

The Indonesian government has verified 300,000 potential recipients for its self-help housing stimulus programme (BSPS), out of a target of 400,000 units by June 2026. The programme, backed by an Rp8.3 trillion state budget allocation, provides grants of up to Rp40 million per unit in remote areas. The Minister of Housing has warned officials against corruption, threatening legal action for any misappropriation of funds.

Anthony Kartono Tan Resigns from Merdeka Battery (MBMA) Board of Directors

Anthony Kartono Tan has submitted his resignation as a director of PT Merdeka Battery Materials Tbk. (MBMA), effective pending shareholder approval. The son of MBMA's President Commissioner Winato Kartono, he was appointed in December 2024 and brought experience from Goldman Sachs and Provident Capital Partners.

Video: The Urgency for Indonesia to Accelerate EBT Investment Without Abandoning the Oil and Gas Sector

Indonesia is being urged to fast-track its energy transition towards renewables while simultaneously strengthening domestic oil and gas exploration. A senior parliamentary official highlighted the need to attract high-risk investment to develop 68 potential hydrocarbon basins to curb imports. This dual strategy aims to bolster national energy security amidst global price volatility.

Minister of Agriculture Amran: Fresh Fruit Bunch Prices Have Increased

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman reports that fresh fruit bunch (TBS) prices for oil palm have risen by 80 to 90 percent, recovering to between Rp3,000 and Rp3,600 per kilogram. The number of palm oil mills not yet raising prices has dropped from 270 to 130, with the government continuing to monitor compliance and threatening sanctions against non-compliant companies.

KPK Proves Digitalisation Is No Guarantee Against Corruption: Backdoor Practices Persist

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has warned that digitalising government procurement does not eliminate corruption, as officials continue to exploit backdoor loopholes. Chairman Setyo Budiyanto stressed that technology is merely a tool and remains vulnerable to manipulation without integrity from human operators. He cited examples such as e-catalog systems being tampered with outside official hours.

Energy Ministry Opens Possibility of Lowering Pertamax Price if Global Oil Prices Ease

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has indicated that the price of non-subsidised fuel Pertamax could be reduced if global crude oil prices decline. The government emphasised that current pricing adjustments are necessary to maintain national energy supply stability, while also noting that previous price restraint was directed by President Prabowo Subianto to protect public purchasing power.

Rupiah: Trapped in the 'Pre-Revenue' Valley of Downstreaming?

The rupiah's recent plunge past the psychological level of Rp18,000 per US dollar has raised concerns, though analysts argue the current pressure differs from the 1997-1998 crisis. Bank Indonesia has responded with aggressive rate hikes and interventions, but these are seen as temporary fixes while the nation's foreign exchange reserves dwindle. The core paradox is that Indonesia is experiencing a 'pre-revenue' phase, where massive investments in downstream mineral processing have yet to generate export earnings, creating a structural deficit in the balance of payments.

Presidential Palace Outlines Government Strategy to Rebuild Public Trust

The Indonesian government, through Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi, has detailed a strategy to restore public trust by accelerating deregulation to improve the business climate and attract investment. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani to fast-track downstreaming and industrialization efforts to boost the rupiah and trade balance. The strategy is reinforced by strong international investor confidence, demonstrated by Danantara's oversubscribed USD1.5 billion global bond issuance.

Cyclone Senyar Triggers Landslides, Wipes Out 7% of Tapanuli Orangutan Population

A rare tropical cyclone induced by climate change has killed approximately 7% of the critically endangered Tapanuli orangutan population in Sumatra within four days. The extreme rainfall triggered massive landslides across 8,303 hectares of the Batang Toru ecosystem, causing sudden canopy collapse and leaving survivors facing long-term food shortages.

Amran Limits Fertiliser and Seed Aid to a Maximum of 5 Hectares per Farmer, Here's Why

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has announced that government-subsidised fertiliser and seed assistance will be capped at a maximum of 5 hectares per farmer, classifying those with larger holdings as entrepreneurs. The policy aims to ensure state aid is targeted precisely at small and medium-scale farmers. Separately, the ministry is launching a nationwide plantation development programme covering 870,000 hectares for strategic commodities such as coffee, cocoa, and sugarcane, with oversight from the Food Task Force, military, police, and the Corruption Eradication Commission.

IHSG Rebound Reflects Technical Recovery After Sharp Correction

The recent strengthening of the Indonesia Stock Exchange Composite Index (IHSG) is largely a technical recovery following a deep correction, according to a CoRE Indonesia researcher. While buyback policies and geopolitical easing have provided a boost, the continued net sell-off by foreign investors suggests global confidence has not fully returned.

IHSG strengthens amid wait-and-see on BI, Fed rates

The Jakarta Composite Index opened higher as investors await key policy decisions from Bank Indonesia and the US Federal Reserve. Global fund managers are increasingly pricing in a Fed rate hike, while domestic attention focuses on BI's expected 25-basis-point increase and upcoming index reviews. Indonesia's planned Panda Bond issuance and steady World Bank growth forecasts provide a supportive backdrop, though volatility remains a concern.

Minister Proposes Rp57.29 Trillion Budget for 2 Million Home Renovations in 2027

Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait has proposed a Rp57.29 trillion budget for the BSPS home renovation programme targeting 2 million units in 2027. The total proposed budget for the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas is Rp106 trillion, though the indicative ceiling is only Rp9.91 trillion. The BSPS programme, which provides government stimulus for low-income self-help housing, is set to expand dramatically from 45,000 units in 2025 to 400,000 units in 2026.

Prabowo Questions Critical Mineral Exports, Luhut Agrees to Halt but with a System

President Prabowo Subianto has questioned the export of critical minerals, and DEN Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan agrees that free exports should be stopped. Luhut proposes using the improved Simbara digital system to manage exports, which he says will integrate upstream and downstream processes and significantly boost state revenue.

House Budget Committee Agrees on Indonesia's Oil Lifting Target of 605-620 Thousand Barrels for 2027

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Budget Committee (Banggar) has approved a higher oil and gas lifting target for 2027, exceeding the government's initial proposal. The committee also urged the government to boost upstream investment to enhance national energy independence.

Firdaus Oiwobo Reports Former UGM Student Body Chairman Tiyo to South Tangerang Police

Firdaus Oiwobo has filed a police report against former Gadjah Mada University (UGM) student body chairman Tiyo Ardianto at the South Tangerang Police. The report follows Tiyo's recent public criticism of the government and his claim of discovering tracking devices on his vehicle. Police have confirmed the report and are currently investigating the matter.

Rupiah Strengthening Not Yet a Sign of Full Market Confidence Recovery, Says Researcher

A researcher from CoRE Indonesia warns that the recent strengthening of the rupiah should not be interpreted as a full restoration of market confidence in the government's economic policies. The appreciation is largely attributed to temporary external factors, such as a weaker US dollar following geopolitical developments, and short-term domestic defensive measures. Structural confidence will only be confirmed when the currency can withstand future global pressures without relying on such support.

Transport Ministry Clarifies Adisutjipto Airport Status Amid Reactivation Talks

The Ministry of Transportation and Angkasa Pura Indonesia have clarified that Adisutjipto Airport in Yogyakarta remains active for certain flights, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive to reactivate it for commercial use. The discussions with the Governor of Yogyakarta focused on an upcoming ASEAN-China forum and the broader plan to optimise the airport for civilian flights alongside its military functions.

Trump Administration Suddenly Softens Stance, Opens Door Wide for Chinese Drones

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has reversed its December 2025 ban on new Chinese-made drones, now permitting imports of certain toy models. The decision follows a Pentagon assessment that simple, low-risk drones do not pose a national security threat. The move signals a potential easing of trade restrictions on Chinese technology products.

FISIP Unas Denies Having Student Executive Body, Refutes BEM Bersatu Claim

The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) at Universitas Nasional (Unas) has officially denied the existence of a faculty-level Student Executive Body (BEM), following the appearance of an individual claiming to be its chairman at a press conference held by the 'BEM Bersatu' alliance. The dean stated the individual acted in a purely personal capacity and does not represent the institution. The BEM Bersatu group had declared its rejection of student movements being exploited for practical political interests.

Inter-Regional Connectivity Strengthens as KAI Long-Distance and Local Trains Serve 24.37 Million Passengers

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reported a 9.9% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers for January–May 2026, serving 24.37 million across its long-distance and local train services. The growth, recorded in both Java and Sumatra, highlights the railway's expanding role in linking economic centres, educational hubs, and public services. KAI emphasised its commitment to enhancing operational safety and service quality to meet rising demand.

Minister: No Reports of Significant Campus Damage from Palu Earthquake

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto stated that no significant structural damage to university campuses has been reported following the earthquake in Palu. While minor cracks, fallen ceilings, and damaged equipment were noted, overall operations remain unaffected. The assessment comes as the Tadulako University campus, previously hit by the 2018 disaster, reported non-structural damage to several buildings.

BNPB Confirms No Tsunami Following M 6.7 Earthquake in Central Sulawesi

Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that no tsunami occurred after a magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck near Palu, Central Sulawesi. The agency urged the public to disregard false reports of a sea wave threat, clarifying that the shallow inland quake lacked the mechanism to generate a tsunami. Viral videos showing receding seawater in Palu Bay were attributed to normal astronomical tides, not seismic activity.

China Threatens Retaliation Over Taiwan's Intelligence Recruitment Website

Beijing has vowed 'resolute countermeasures' after Taiwan launched a website encouraging Chinese citizens to leak intelligence. A Chinese spokesperson condemned the platform as damaging to cross-strait relations and warned that any citizens providing information to Taiwanese institutions would face legal consequences. The move escalates ongoing tensions, with Taipei citing democratic values and Beijing accusing it of confrontational behaviour.

The Medina Charter and Exemplary Tolerance

The article explores the historical precedent of religious tolerance set by Prophet Muhammad in Medina, highlighting the Medina Charter's role in fostering peaceful coexistence among diverse communities. It recounts specific incidents, including the expulsion of the Banu Nadhir tribe for violating the charter and the revelation of Quranic verse 2:256 affirming no compulsion in religion, which guided the Prophet's handling of children raised in the Jewish faith. The piece underscores how these early Islamic principles serve as enduring references for interfaith relations.

Prabowo to Launch Digitalisation of Social Assistance in November 2026

The Indonesian government plans to fully implement a digital system for social assistance (bansos) distribution by November 2026, with President Prabowo scheduled to launch the programme nationally. The new portal, which uses biometric verification and integrates data across eight ministries, aims to make aid distribution more targeted, transparent, and accessible. The system is expected to reduce registration times from 200 days to mere minutes and eliminate associated costs for recipients.

Motive in Tangerang Murder: Offended After Phone Argument

Police in Tangerang have revealed that a 27-year-old man stabbed a victim to death after feeling insulted by harsh words exchanged during a phone call. The suspect, identified as MAF, was arrested in Bogor less than 24 hours after the fatal attack. Authorities stated the confrontation escalated when the two met in person to resolve a misunderstanding.

Bali Transport Agency to Build More Proper Bus Stops for Trans Metro Dewata

The Bali Transportation Agency has acknowledged public complaints about inadequate bus stops for the Trans Metro Dewata service and is planning to construct more suitable shelters. The agency is currently seeking funding schemes and third-party partnerships, as only two stops were built using the regional budget this year. Future construction will be prioritised based on user needs, budget availability, and land ownership certainty.

Legislator Criticises Tourism Minister: Indonesia Ranks 5th in ASEAN, Dead Last

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has sharply criticised the Tourism Minister, highlighting that Indonesia ranks fifth and last among ASEAN nations in foreign tourist arrivals. The legislator argued that the sector's problems are not solely financial, pointing to expensive domestic flights and restrictive visa policies as key barriers.

Minister: 130 palm oil companies yet to raise FFB prices

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman reports that around 130 palm oil companies have not yet raised fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices for farmers, despite most firms complying with government directives. The government is monitoring compliance to ensure prices are not lowered again, citing the impact on 15 million smallholders.