Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 June 2026

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Alliance Laundry Systems Strengthens Thailand Plant to Support Business Surge in Indonesia

Alliance Laundry Systems has upgraded its manufacturing facility in Chonburi, Thailand, to meet the growing demand for commercial laundry equipment in Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia. The modernised plant features a new R&D centre and will produce advanced, energy-efficient machines to support Indonesia's expanding laundry sector, driven by urbanisation and the hospitality industry. The company is positioning itself as a strategic partner by offering comprehensive after-sales support alongside its latest product innovations.

National Nutrition Agency to Offer Incentives Based on Free Nutritious Meal Kitchen Grading

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will introduce a grading system for its Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) kitchens, linking financial incentives to performance. The scheme aims to improve service quality across approximately 28,000 kitchens serving 63 million beneficiaries. The government is shifting its focus from expanding coverage to enhancing quality and operational efficiency.

Why the Women's Alliance Brought Kitchen Utensils to the Protest

The Indonesian Women's Alliance is staging a symbolic protest against the Prabowo administration, demanding lower staple food prices and a halt to the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) due to its fiscal burden. Demonstrators will carry pots, pans, and other kitchen tools to symbolise the hunger crisis faced by grassroots communities as cooking becomes unaffordable. The alliance also calls for the government to fulfil its promise of job creation amid rising unemployment and mass layoffs.

APL Boosts Solar Energy Use to Cut Carbon Emissions

PT Anugerah Pharmindo Lestari (APL) has inaugurated a rooftop solar power plant at its East Java distribution facility, expanding its renewable energy footprint. The installation is expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 264 tonnes of CO2 equivalent annually. The move aligns with Indonesia's clean energy transition and was welcomed by local government officials as a model of public-private collaboration.

Human Rights Ministry: MBG Evaluation Should Focus on Governance Improvements

Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights has responded to the National Commission on Human Rights' (Komnas HAM) call for a comprehensive evaluation of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG), arguing the review should target governance improvements rather than labelling issues as human rights violations. The ministry asserts the programme is a concrete fulfilment of economic and social rights, particularly the right to food, and notes it received positive international feedback at a UN Human Rights Council side event. It contends that implementation shortcomings do not automatically constitute rights violations and that Komnas HAM's assessment appears based on research rather than formal investigation.

Hotel Sultan Eviction Set for Tomorrow, Parts of GBK Complex to Close Temporarily

The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) will execute a court-ordered eviction of Hotel Sultan on Thursday, leading to the temporary closure of several access points and facilities in the Senayan area. A joint team of 300 personnel has been prepared to secure the site and meticulously inventory any remaining assets belonging to the previous operator, PT Indobuildco. The former operator will have six months to reclaim their inventoried movable property following the execution.

M5.1 Earthquake Strikes 54 km Northwest of Poso, Central Sulawesi; No Tsunami Threat

A magnitude 5.1 earthquake struck northwest of Poso in Central Sulawesi early Wednesday, according to Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). The shallow quake, centred on land at a depth of just five kilometres, was felt strongly by local residents but posed no tsunami risk. BMKG indicated the tremor was an aftershock linked to activity on the Sausu Fault in Palu.

BPS Indonesia Officially Launches 2026 Economic Census from Southeast Sulawesi, Urges Public to Support National Data Collection

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) has officially commenced fieldwork for the 2026 Economic Census, launching the nationwide data collection from Southeast Sulawesi. The decennial census will, for the first time, include agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors alongside household economic activities. The resulting data is intended to provide a comprehensive foundation for more targeted national development policies.

Indonesian govt to review school meal units during holidays

The Indonesian government will temporarily suspend operations of Nutrition Service Fulfillment Units (SPPG) during the school break to conduct a comprehensive evaluation. The review will assess facility conditions, food preparation processes, hygiene standards, and meal quality, with units graded to determine future incentive levels. The National Nutrition Agency is also considering broader reforms, including a halt to new SPPG construction and adjustments to incentive calculations based on verified beneficiary data.

UBSI Cikarang Campus Encourages Students to Turn Ideas into Tangible Works

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) Cikarang campus is implementing project-based learning to help students transform academic ideas into practical solutions for society and industry. The initiative aims to equip graduates with execution skills and professional portfolios, moving beyond theory to meet the demands of the digital era. The campus fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration and industry-aligned mentorship to produce innovators and creative professionals.

House Commission III Discusses 2027 Budget with Deputy Police Chief and PPATK Head

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III convened a working meeting with the National Police and the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) to deliberate on their 2027 work plans and budgets. The session also covered performance reports and budget absorption for 2026, alongside a review of the central government's financial statements. The Deputy Police Chief expressed gratitude for the recent passage of the Police Bill into law, calling it a commitment to enhancing professionalism.

Spotify Removes 57,000 Fake Podcasts Linked to Drug Sales

Spotify has purged tens of thousands of AI-generated podcasts that were exploiting its platform to promote illegal online pharmacies and drug trafficking. The fake content used search engine manipulation to direct users to sites selling prescription drugs without oversight, often demanding cryptocurrency payments. The incident highlights the growing challenge of moderating AI-driven spam on audio platforms and has drawn criticism from US lawmakers over the company's slow response.

Jakarta Governor Opens Singapore Investment Opportunities in TOD and MRT Projects

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has invited Singaporean investment in the city's Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) and MRT Phase 3 and 4 projects during a meeting with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Pramono emphasised Jakarta's commitment to providing an easy, transparent, and consistent investment climate, highlighting the strategic access to Southeast Asian markets. The meeting builds on a prior working relationship between the two leaders at the national government level.

Parents begin hunting for school supplies at Jatinegara Market

Parents and students are flocking to Jakarta's Jatinegara Market to purchase school supplies ahead of the 2026/2027 academic year. Traders report a surge in demand for uniforms, stationery, and accessories, viewing the back-to-school season as a key economic driver. Despite some price adjustments, shoppers are taking advantage of the school holidays to prepare early, drawn by the market's affordable prices and wide selection.

Ministry of Trade Officially Releases Technical Regulation for Coal Exports via PT DSI

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has issued Ministerial Regulation No. 15 of 2026, establishing the technical framework for coal exports. The regulation mandates that all strategic natural resource commodity exports, including coal, must be conducted exclusively through the newly formed state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (PT DSI). This rule, effective 1 June 2026, details the licensing, verification, and customs documentation requirements for registered exporters.

Profile of Retired Three-Star General Setyo Sularso Linked to Former UGM BEM Chair Tiyo Ardianto

Retired Lieutenant General Muhammad Setyo Sularso has drawn public scrutiny after a student alliance linked him to Tiyo Ardianto, a former student leader critical of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme. The alliance alleged Ardianto used a vehicle registered to Sularso's sister, prompting wider discussion involving other national figures. Sularso is a 1982 Military Academy graduate whose final post was TNI Inspector General and who is also related by marriage to former TNI Commander Andika Perkasa.

Swiss Ambassador Visits Nestlé Indonesia's Kejayan Factory

Swiss Ambassador Olivier Zehnder visited Nestlé Indonesia's Kejayan factory in Pasuruan, East Java, accompanied by ILO and Swisscontact representatives. The visit highlighted Nestlé's five-decade partnership with local dairy cooperatives and farmers to strengthen Indonesia's national milk supply chain. Discussions focused on cross-sector collaboration for inclusive economic growth, sustainable practices, and community empowerment in the dairy sector.

Switzerland Confirms US-Iran MoU to Be Signed on 19 June

The Swiss government has confirmed that a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran is scheduled to be signed on Friday, 19 June, at the Burgenstock resort in central Switzerland. Switzerland is acting as a facilitator, creating the necessary practical and diplomatic conditions for the meeting, while Pakistan and Qatar serve as mediators. The contents of the MoU, which follows an announced immediate and permanent cessation of hostilities, have not been disclosed.

Thousands of Tourists Visit Thousand Islands During Islamic New Year Holiday

A total of 2,531 domestic and international tourists visited the Thousand Islands regency during the Islamic New Year holiday on 15–16 June 2026. The head of the local tourism office noted the area remains a favourite getaway due to its proximity to Jakarta and easy access from multiple piers. Visitors typically explore the inhabited and resort islands for their beaches, marine life, and natural beauty.

Good News! Non-Civil Servant Madrasah Teacher Incentives to Be Disbursed End of June 2026, Rp1.5 Million Ready for Transfer

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that incentive payments for non-civil servant madrasah teachers will begin disbursement at the end of June 2026. Each eligible teacher will receive Rp1.5 million directly into their bank accounts. The government has also proposed a Rp9.6 trillion budget for the 2027 fiscal year to further improve the welfare of religious education teachers.

BPJPH: Mandatory Halal Certification a Momentum for Businesses to Boost Product Competitiveness

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has urged businesses to view the upcoming mandatory halal certification, effective 18 October 2026, as a strategic investment rather than a mere regulatory burden. The agency emphasised that halal certification enhances transparency, traceability, and consumer trust, thereby strengthening market access and product competitiveness. The regulation will apply to a wide range of goods including food, beverages, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

Anindya Bakrie Urges Entrepreneurs to Develop Digitalisation and Green Economy, Citing Vast Potential

Kadin Indonesia Chairman Anindya Bakrie has called on entrepreneurs to seize new economic opportunities in the green and digital sectors, highlighting their large domestic and international markets. Speaking at the inauguration of the Kepri Kadin board, he stressed the need to optimise the Batam, Bintan, and Karimun free trade zone to attract investment. He also noted Kepri's strong economic growth of nearly seven per cent in 2025, well above the national average.

Chery Supplier Begins Mass Production of Sodium-Ion Batteries

Chery Automotive's supply partner, Chaowei Group, has commenced mass production of sodium-ion batteries in Anqing, China, targeting the affordable electric transport segment. The production line, managed by subsidiary Anqing Chaoren Energy Technology, represents a total investment of 3.5 billion yuan and an initial annual capacity of 2 GWh. This development aligns with a broader industry shift towards sodium-based platforms for entry-level vehicles, driven by significantly lower material costs compared to lithium-ion alternatives.

Non-Civil Servant Madrasah Teachers to Receive Rp 1.5 Million Incentive by End of June

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that incentive payments for non-civil servant madrasah teachers will begin disbursement at the end of June 2026. Each eligible teacher will receive Rp 1.5 million directly into their bank accounts. The ministry expressed gratitude for the teachers' dedication and reaffirmed its commitment to improving their welfare.

Qodari: Prabowo's free nutritious meals programme is a people's mandate and must continue

Government communications chief Muhammad Qodari insists the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme will proceed because it was a core campaign pledge that secured President Prabowo Subianto's democratic mandate. He acknowledged implementation challenges but argued the programme's noble goal of tackling child malnutrition means it cannot simply be halted. Qodari urged the public to give Prabowo time to deliver his broader transformation agenda, including education access and export reforms.

Bakom Chief: 'A Big Mistake' to Demand Prabowo Halt Free Nutritious Meals, It Was His Campaign Promise

The head of Indonesia's Government Communication Agency, Muhammad Qodari, has firmly rejected student demands to terminate the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, calling such a demand a 'big mistake'. He argued the programme is a core campaign pledge that secured President Prabowo Subianto's election and cannot simply be stopped. Qodari acknowledged implementation challenges but stressed the government is open to feedback and committed to improving the programme's management.

IHSG Strengthens Ahead of BI and Fed Interest Rate Decisions

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Wednesday as investors await key monetary policy decisions from Bank Indonesia and the US Federal Reserve. Market participants are also monitoring global fund manager surveys indicating a more defensive investment stance and potential rate hikes. Domestically, attention is focused on the upcoming BI rate announcement, planned Panda Bond issuance, and the World Bank's maintained positive growth outlook for Indonesia.

Tax Case: DJP Seizes Rp2 Billion in Cash from Consultancy Firm

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has seized Rp2 billion in cash from a Jakarta-based management consultancy, PT GR, as part of a criminal tax investigation. The seizure was carried out by civil servant investigators from the Central Jakarta Regional Office in an orderly manner. The DJP stated the action reinforces its commitment to law enforcement, safeguarding state revenue, and promoting voluntary taxpayer compliance.

City Parks Proven to Cool Air Temperatures Beyond Green Open Spaces

A recent study reveals that urban parks provide a 'domino effect' of cooling that extends well beyond their physical boundaries, significantly lowering temperatures in surrounding residential areas and streets. The findings highlight the crucial role of green spaces in mitigating the urban heat island effect, driven by evapotranspiration and shade from tree canopies. Researchers recommend that city planners integrate parks as essential green infrastructure to combat heatwaves and improve urban living conditions amid climate change.

BPJS Kesehatan 2026 Job Vacancies Still Open, D3 Graduates from All Disciplines Eligible to Apply

Indonesia's national health insurance agency, BPJS Kesehatan, is continuing its recruitment drive for temporary administrative staff (PATT) until 23 June 2026. The positions are open to D3 diploma graduates from all disciplines under the age of 26, with specific affirmative action provisions for native Papuans and Aceh residents. This hiring round aims to bolster operational and administrative support across the agency's regional deputy offices and branch locations nationwide.

Misleading: Single-Door Export Policy Effective Against International Oligarchy in Singapore

A fact-check by Tempo debunks social media claims that Indonesia's single-door export policy is designed to combat an international oligarchy in Singapore. Experts explain that most Indonesian commodity exports already go directly to destination countries like China, and the policy instead risks creating business uncertainty and potential legal conflicts.

Incentives for Non-Civil Servant Madrasah Teachers to Begin Disbursement in Late June 2026

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that incentive payments for non-civil servant madrasah teachers will commence at the end of June 2026. The ministry is currently finalising collective bank accounts for the recipients. A proposed budget allocation of Rp9.6 trillion from the 2027 indicative ceiling has been earmarked to improve the welfare of religious education teachers.

Jakarta Government Strives to Ensure Labour-Intensive Programme Hits the Mark

The Jakarta provincial government is implementing verification and socialisation measures to ensure its 'Padat Karya' (labour-intensive) programme effectively reaches its intended beneficiaries. Various municipal agencies are involved in vetting participant data and disseminating information down to the neighbourhood level. The initiative, which pays participants the provincial minimum wage of approximately Rp5.7 million per month, is framed as a direct response to growing economic pressures on residents.

Government to Execute Eviction of Hotel Sultan Tomorrow

The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) will enforce a court-ordered eviction of Hotel Sultan on Thursday, deploying 300 personnel and temporarily closing several access points. The operation follows the previous operator PT Indobuildco's failure to vacate the premises, with authorities pledging to meticulously document and store any remaining movable assets. The eviction marks a significant step in resolving the long-standing legal dispute over the Blok 15 GBK site.

Rooftop Solar Plant Begins Operation at East Java Facility, APL Drives Acceleration of Green Transition for Sustainable Business

PT Anugerah Pharmindo Lestari (APL) has inaugurated a 202.2 kWp rooftop solar power plant at its East Java facility, projected to cut carbon emissions by 264 tonnes annually. The healthcare company's initiative aligns with Indonesia's renewable energy targets and was welcomed by Sidoarjo Regency officials as a model for private-sector contribution to regional sustainability. The launch underscores the growing integration of green energy practices within Indonesia's healthcare industry.

After 20 Years, Palestine Finally Ready to Hold Elections

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has announced plans for legislative elections in November 2026 and a presidential vote in early 2027, marking the first such polls in two decades. The last parliamentary election in 2006 resulted in a Hamas victory, leading to a political split and the PLC not convening since 2007. It remains unclear whether the 90-year-old Abbas will seek re-election, and significant obstacles remain, including the feasibility of voting in Israeli-occupied East Jerusalem and the war-devastated Gaza Strip.

Government Assures Financing for Kopdes Merah Putih Will Not Burden State-Owned Enterprises

The Indonesian government has guaranteed that the financing scheme for the Kopdes Merah Putih village cooperative programme will not strain the financial health of state-owned enterprises (BUMN) or increase the state budget deficit. Funding will be sourced entirely from the government's existing budget allocations and will involve state-owned banks, with BUMN acting only as paid contractors. The initiative aims to strengthen grassroots economies through transparent governance without disrupting the business focus of state firms.

Qodari: No Room for Negotiation to Halt Prabowo's Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Head of the Government Communication Body, Muhammad Qodari, asserts that there is no political room for negotiation to stop President Prabowo Subianto's free nutritious meal (MBG) programme. He categorises opposition to the programme as either political or technocratic, stating that politically motivated demands to halt it are unacceptable as the programme is a core campaign promise. Qodari urged critics to consider the 90 million voters who supported Prabowo based on this vision.

Peace Deal with US to Unlock Rp 5,310 Trillion Investment Flood for Iran

A peace agreement ending hostilities between Iran and the United States is set to unlock US$300 billion in private investment. The deal, expected to be signed on Friday, includes lifting the US blockade and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The Reconstruction and Development Fund will channel private capital into Iran's energy, logistics, manufacturing, and transport sectors without using government aid or war compensation.

PDIP Denies BEM Bersatu's Accusations Linking Student Activist Tiyo Ardianto to Retired General Setyo Sularso

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has vehemently denied allegations by the BEM Bersatu student alliance that it is behind protests against the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG). PDIP politician Guntur Romli dismissed the claims as baseless 'cocokologi' and slander, asserting the party does not fund or facilitate student movements. The student group had pointed to the vehicle ownership and political connections of activist Tiyo Ardianto as evidence of political infiltration.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Develops Sign Language Vocabulary for Islamic Jurisprudence and Theology

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is creating a standardised sign language vocabulary for Islamic terms, called KOSMIN, to assist the deaf community. The programme aims to unify the diverse signs currently used for religious concepts in theology and jurisprudence. The initiative is part of a broader inclusion effort that includes a completed Master Sign Language Al-Quran and a call for youth to support disability access to religious education.

Timah (TINS) Distributes IDR 656.82 Billion Dividend, Note the Dates

PT TIMAH Tbk (TINS) has approved a cash dividend of IDR 656.82 billion, representing 50% of its 2025 net profit. The dividend equates to approximately IDR 88 per share, offering a yield of about 2.7% based on recent closing prices. The remaining half of the profit will be retained to support the company's business development.

New Study reveals Piracy Services are Exposing Millions of Asia-Pacific Consumers to Cybercrime, Identity Theft and Fraud

A new study by the Coalition Against Piracy (CAP) reveals that nearly half of tested illicit streaming apps in the Asia-Pacific region contain malware, exposing users to identity theft, fraud, and financial loss. The research, launched in Bali, challenges the perception of piracy as a harmless activity and highlights the growing convergence between content theft and organised cybercrime. CAP is calling for greater consumer awareness and stronger enforcement to address the significant cybersecurity risks posed by pirate streaming services.

Polda Metro Deploys Personnel to Secure Protests at DPR and BGN Office Today

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have mobilised 4,576 personnel to oversee a series of planned demonstrations in Central Jakarta today. Protest groups, including student organisations and local alliances, are set to rally at key locations such as the DPR/MPR building, the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) office, and the Ministry of Finance. Authorities have urged demonstrators to remain orderly and advised motorists to seek alternative routes as traffic diversions will be implemented based on field conditions.

University of Indonesia Condemns Doxing and Stalking of Student Journalists

The University of Indonesia has strongly condemned the doxing, threats, and stalking of student journalists from Pers Suara Mahasiswa (SUMA) following their coverage of a protest and a Pride Month article. The university is coordinating protective measures with campus security and authorities, prioritising the safety of the affected students. The intimidation reportedly escalated after SUMA published a piece highlighting discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community in Indonesia.

Vietnam Leads Southeast Asia in Pork Consumption, Indonesia Lowest

Vietnam tops Southeast Asian nations in per capita pork consumption at 38.2 kg annually, according to FAO data, while Indonesia ranks lowest at just 0.9 kg. The disparity reflects cultural and religious dietary patterns, with pork deeply embedded in Vietnamese cuisine and largely absent from Indonesia's majority-Muslim diet. Other significant consumers include Singapore, Myanmar, and the Philippines.

Hidden Key to Breast Cancer? Weight-Loss Drug Effects Reveal New Facts

A recent scientific study suggests that popular weight-loss drugs may hold an unexpected key to understanding and reducing breast cancer risk in overweight or obese women. The drugs appear to slash systemic inflammation and circulating oestrogen levels by rapidly reducing harmful visceral fat, potentially cutting off the molecular supply lines that cancer cells need to grow. Experts caution that long-term research is still required and these medications must remain medically supervised interventions.

James Webb Telescope Detects Methane in Atmosphere of Rare Earth-like Giant Planet

Astronomers using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope have identified methane in the atmosphere of TOI-199b, a rare temperate giant exoplanet with a relatively mild temperature of 79 degrees Celsius. The discovery, published in the Astronomical Journal, marks one of the first detailed atmospheric studies of a planet in this intermediate category between cold gas giants and scorching 'hot Jupiters'. The findings also suggest the presence of ammonia and carbon dioxide, offering new insights into planetary formation and atmospheric evolution.

Fortune Announces 2026 Southeast Asia 500 List

Fortune has released its 2026 Southeast Asia 500 list, with Trafigura Group topping the rankings for the third consecutive year. Vietnam's companies showed the strongest revenue growth, while the entry threshold surged 26% to $440.6 million. The list highlights a regional shift from commodity dependence towards finance and technology, with two Singapore-based crypto mining firms debuting.

Government to Restructure Nutrition Units: Incentive Recalculation and Grading System Planned

The Indonesian Government is set to overhaul the management of its free nutritious meal programme (MBG) by prioritising quality over quantity. A moratorium on new service units will be implemented while existing ones undergo restructuring, including a revised incentive scheme tied to beneficiary numbers and a new performance-based grading system.