Archive: 17 June 2026
Showing 1,351-1,400 of 1,429 articles
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:59 WIB
House Commission IX Leadership Supports Evaluation of Free Nutritious Meals for High School Students
Leaders of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission IX have backed a proposal to stop providing the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to senior high school students, particularly those from affluent backgrounds. They argue the state budget should be refocused on the most vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, toddlers, and children from poor families, to maximise impact on stunting reduction. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is coordinating with ministries to redesign the programme, which could cut around 8 million beneficiaries and achieve significant budget savings.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:55 WIB
Iran Deal Under Scrutiny, Trump Ready to Show His Hand to US Congress
President Donald Trump has signalled willingness to submit the details of a new agreement with Iran to Congress amid bipartisan demands for transparency. The preliminary deal, which extends a ceasefire and addresses Iran's nuclear programme, has drawn scepticism from both Republican and Democratic senators over its vague terms and reported financial concessions. Trump denied claims of massive reconstruction aid and asset releases, promising to reveal full details at a formal signing in Geneva.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:52 WIB
Russian Artist and Vocal Putin Critic Shot Dead in Poland
A Russian artist known for his satirical caricatures mocking President Vladimir Putin has been shot dead in Poland. Robert Kuzovkov, who used the alias Semyon Skrepetsky, was killed by five gunshots in a car park near the Belarusian consulate in Biala Podlaska. Polish authorities have detained two Belarusian nationals and suspect the murder is linked to the victim's public criticism of Russian and Belarusian leadership.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:50 WIB
2026 Economic Census Begins: YouTubers and Affiliators to Be Recorded
Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has launched the 2026 Economic Census, running from 15 June to 31 August, targeting all households and business groups nationwide. The census will notably capture data on digital economy participants, including online sellers, YouTubers, influencers, and affiliates, even from residences without visible business signage. Officials assured the public of data confidentiality and stated the census will also cover agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors for the first time in a decade.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:46 WIB
High Tyrosine Levels May Shorten Men's Lifespan
A new study published in Aging-US suggests that elevated levels of the amino acid tyrosine in the blood are linked to a shorter lifespan in men. Researchers from the University of Hong Kong and the University of Georgia analysed data from over 270,000 UK Biobank participants using Mendelian randomisation to establish a causal link. The findings highlight a significant sex-specific difference, with the risk observed in men but not women.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:44 WIB
Yesterday's legal news: MBG as a basic citizen right to waqf land certification
A roundup of key legal developments includes the Human Rights Minister affirming the Free Nutritious Meals programme as fulfilment of basic rights, Central Java leading national waqf land certification, and the Constitutional Court targeting a July ruling on a judicial review of the programme's funding. Police are also pursuing a network handling stolen motorcycles in Tangerang, while the KPK considers its next move after a former parliamentary staff member twice failed to appear for questioning.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:43 WIB
Gold Prices Soar Again, Now Face Final 'Enemy'
Gold prices extended their rally, rising for a fourth consecutive session as a temporary US-Iran peace deal eased inflation fears and reduced expectations of further Federal Reserve interest rate hikes. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a drop in oil prices below US$80 per barrel have bolstered the non-yielding asset. Market attention now turns to the Federal Reserve's upcoming rate decision under new Chair Kevin Warsh, which is seen as the last major hurdle for gold's continued ascent.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:43 WIB
Man Arrested for Sexual Abuse of Dog in North Jakarta Pet Shop
Police in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, have arrested a 24-year-old man for allegedly committing a sexual act against a dog inside a pet shop. The suspect was caught by a witness and reported by shop employees, leading to his arrest under Indonesia's new Criminal Code. The case has drawn attention from lawmakers, with a House deputy speaker urging prosecution to uphold animal protection laws.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:40 WIB
Approaching Six Centuries, Cirebon City Learns from a Jakarta Neighbourhood Unit
As Cirebon approaches its 599th anniversary, a special plenary session heard an unconventional address from a native son who now leads a neighbourhood unit in East Jakarta. Taufiq Yusuf urged the city to learn from grassroots urban management, highlighting the untapped potential of vacant land. His message emphasised that big solutions can emerge from the smallest administrative structures.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:40 WIB
Yesterday's politics: German President visits Indonesia, AI mastery urged
A roundup of key political developments includes President Prabowo's state luncheon with the German President, Vice President Gibran's call for students to master artificial intelligence, and a student alliance alleging former military figures are behind opposition to the free nutritious meals programme. Other stories cover the military's first graduate of Jordan's Royal Defence College and university involvement in post-disaster recovery in Aceh.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:38 WIB
Israel Seizes Construction Authority at Ibrahimi Mosque, Violating Hebron Agreement
Israel has unilaterally taken over planning and construction authority at the Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron, effectively breaching the 1997 Hebron Agreement. The move, announced by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, has drawn sharp condemnation from Palestinian authorities and Israeli peace activists, who warn it further destabilises the region and undermines prospects for a two-state solution.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:33 WIB
PPIH repatriates 142 ailing hajj pilgrims through Tanazul programme
The Hajj Organising Committee (PPIH) in Saudi Arabia has repatriated 142 Indonesian pilgrims who fell ill through the Tanazul early-return programme. The initiative, facilitated by the Indonesian Hajj Health Clinic (KKHI), prioritises medical stability and flight safety before approving a pilgrim's early departure. Out of 400 applications received, only those deemed medically fit to fly were evacuated, while others recovered and rejoined their original travel groups.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:30 WIB
Viral Ojol Crosses Railway Bridge in Petamburan, KAI: Extremely Dangerous
A video of an online motorcycle taxi rider illegally crossing a railway bridge in Petamburan, Central Jakarta, has gone viral, prompting a stern warning from state railway operator KAI. KAI condemned the act as highly dangerous for both train operations and public safety, and announced it will report the incident to local authorities. Local residents report that such reckless crossings are frequent and difficult to prevent.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:29 WIB
Elza Syarief Resigns as Sony Sonjaya's Lawyer: 'Mr Sony Was Dishonest'
Lawyer Elza Syarief has withdrawn from the defence team of former BGN deputy chief Sony Sonjaya, citing his dishonesty in a corruption case involving the Free Nutritious Meals programme. She stated she was misled after prosecutors named Sony's associate as a suspect for allegedly channelling illicit funds to him. The Attorney General's Office has named five suspects in the case, which involves inflated procurement costs and unqualified service providers.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:29 WIB
Jakarta Air Quality on 17 June 2026 Ranks Second Worst in the World
Jakarta's air quality was ranked the second worst globally on the morning of 17 June 2026, with an AQI of 175, categorised as unhealthy. Governor Pramono Anung urged residents to use public transport and wear masks, while outlining long-term plans including 10,000 electric buses by 2030 to reduce emissions.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:27 WIB
Gold prices for three brands at Pegadaian remain unchanged on Wednesday morning
The prices of gold bullion from UBS, Antam, and Galeri24 at Pegadaian held steady on Wednesday morning, mirroring the rates from the previous day. The static pricing was observed across all available weight denominations for the three brands. Pegadaian notes that these prices are subject to change at any time.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:22 WIB
As War De-escalates, Japan, China and The Fed Still Make Indonesia Jittery
Indonesian financial markets are expected to continue strengthening this week, though caution persists amid geopolitical developments. A temporary 60-day truce between the US and Iran has caused oil prices to plummet, easing headline inflation fears but raising concerns about a potential consumer spending surge that could reignite price pressures. Meanwhile, Indonesia's external debt grew to a record US$439.7 billion in April, driven by public sector borrowing, while the private sector continued to deleverage.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:16 WIB
Jakarta Ranks Second Worst City Globally for Air Quality
Jakarta's air quality was ranked the second worst in the world on Wednesday morning, with an AQI of 175, categorised as unhealthy. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is pursuing three main strategies to tackle the pollution, including expanding public transport and accelerating waste processing facilities. Governor Pramono Anung highlighted that the transport sector accounts for 50 per cent of emissions and aims to operate 10,000 electric buses by 2030.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:15 WIB
New Outbreak Rages in the US as Parasitic Infections Surge
A resurgence of the flesh-eating screwworm parasite in livestock is escalating across the United States, with confirmed cases rising sharply from a single calf in Texas to 12 animals across multiple states. The outbreak is raising alarms within the agricultural sector, prompting federal and state authorities to deploy millions of sterile flies and impose preventive quarantines. Officials have stressed that the outbreak poses no threat to food safety for human consumption.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:15 WIB
Saving Children from Addiction: Jambi Religious Affairs Office Restricts Gadgets in Madrasahs
The Jambi Provincial Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs has imposed restrictions on gadget use in all state and private madrasahs to combat rising exposure to online gambling and harmful digital content. The policy, effective since last week, permits mobile phones only for educational purposes and requires them to be stored away when not in use. Officials aim to foster a more conducive learning environment without imposing a total ban on devices.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:13 WIB
Muhammadiyah Chief Urges Prabowo to Curb Overseas Trips
Muhammadiyah chairman Busyro Muqoddas has called on President Prabowo Subianto to reduce his frequent foreign visits and focus on pressing domestic issues. Busyro argued that direct engagement with regional communities is essential to address social, economic, and agrarian conflicts. The criticism follows public scrutiny over Prabowo's travel frequency, which a former deputy foreign minister described as excessive and costly.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:10 WIB
One Fatality Reported Following M6.7 Earthquake in Central Sulawesi
A magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck Central Sulawesi on Tuesday has resulted in one confirmed death in Sigi Regency, with over 300 people affected and dozens injured. The disaster has caused significant damage to homes, public facilities, and a key provincial road, prompting ongoing monitoring and data collection by authorities.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:05 WIB
SUMA UI Journalists Doxed and Stalked After Covering Protest
Student journalists from Pers Suara Mahasiswa (SUMA) at the University of Indonesia have been subjected to doxing, intimidation, and physical stalking by unknown individuals following their coverage of a demonstration and the publication of an opinion piece on LGBTQ+ discrimination. The university administration subsequently pressured the press body to retract the article, citing reputational concerns, while the journalists maintain the decision was made solely to mitigate safety risks.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:05 WIB
US to Make Neighbouring Australia a Base for New Weapons as Trump Bolsters Combat Readiness
The United States plans to establish its first permanent combat supply storage facility in Australia, allocating US$30 million for a logistics depot in Victoria. The move is part of Washington's strategy to expand its military logistics network in the Indo-Pacific amid intensifying rivalry with China. Analysts note the southeastern location offers greater protection from Chinese missile ranges compared to bases further north.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:00 WIB
Rare Moment for Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Witnessing the Kiswah Change at the Kaaba
Indonesian Hajj pilgrims in Makkah experienced a rare opportunity to witness the annual replacement of the Kiswah, the cloth covering the Kaaba, on the Islamic New Year. The ceremony, which draws thousands of worshippers, is a once-in-a-lifetime event for many, including first-time pilgrim Dwi Vera Anggreani. She described the direct view of the historic procession as an unforgettable and deeply moving highlight of her pilgrimage.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 06:00 WIB
Son of Former Brazilian President Eduardo Bolsonaro Sentenced to Four Years in Prison
Brazil's Supreme Court has sentenced Eduardo Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro, to four years and two months in prison for lobbying the United States to impose sanctions on his own country. The court found that his actions threatened judicial authority amid his father's ongoing coup plot trial. The ruling also bars Eduardo from holding public office for eight years after his sentence, though he retains the right to appeal.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:59 WIB
Minister Reveals Condition of Domestic Worker Abused in Malaysia, Ready to Facilitate Repatriation
Indonesia's Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers has confirmed that a female domestic worker abused by her employer in Malaysia is now in good condition and under consular protection. The government is prioritising the victim's safety and will facilitate her return once the necessary legal processes in Malaysia are completed. Malaysian police have arrested four suspects in connection with the assault, which was captured on video.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:50 WIB
AI Deemed to Have Failed in Detecting Patient's Critical Condition Leading to Death, Family Says: 'My Sister Is Not a Number!'
A family in Brazil has blamed a newly deployed AI-based hospital bed management system for the death of a 32-year-old psychologist. The system, Core-MG, allegedly failed to prioritise her case for intensive care, resulting in a fatal delay. The incident has sparked debate over the shifting of medical decision-making from doctors to algorithms.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:42 WIB
A Quiet Milestone for Two Banks
Bank Indonesia's recent cooperation agreement with the People's Bank of China, though largely overlooked by the public, represents a significant step in the global shift towards a multipolar financial order. The deal aims to expand local currency use and build alternative payment infrastructure, subtly challenging the long-standing dominance of the US dollar in international trade. This move reflects a broader effort to reduce dependency on dollar-based systems, which have historically been wielded as instruments of economic power and sanctions.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:41 WIB
Israel Seizes Control of Ibrahimi Mosque in Hebron
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has revoked Palestinian authority over the Ibrahimi Mosque in occupied Hebron, declaring the move an act of 'practical sovereignty'. The Palestinian Foreign Ministry condemned the decision as a violation of international law and signed agreements, warning it threatens regional stability. The mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has been under de facto Israeli control for decades, with access heavily restricted since a 1994 massacre by a Jewish settler.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:30 WIB
Saudi Arabia Replaces Kaaba Covering to Mark Islamic New Year
Saudi Arabia has replaced the Kiswah, the black silk cloth covering the Kaaba in Mecca, to mark the Islamic New Year 1448 Hijriah. The annual tradition, carried out by a team of trained Saudi specialists, involved months of preparation and the use of hundreds of kilograms of natural silk, silver, and gold-plated thread. The ceremony underscores the kingdom's long-term commitment to maintaining Islam's holiest sites and preserving centuries-old craftsmanship.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:27 WIB
Pope Leo XIV on US-Iran Agreement: Thank God, Dialogue is Better than War
Pope Leo XIV has praised the newly reached US-Iran agreement, expressing hope it marks a definitive end to armed conflict between the two nations. The pontiff emphasised that resolving disputes through diplomacy and negotiation is far preferable to returning to the battlefield. He also urged the global community to address post-war social and economic impacts and to eliminate weapons of mass destruction.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:24 WIB
Behind the Unpublished US-Iran Agreement Document
The text of a peace agreement between the United States and Iran remains undisclosed, despite US President Donald Trump claiming it has been signed. US Vice President Vance stated the deal involves IAEA inspectors returning to Iran to destroy highly enriched uranium, while Iranian officials insist final nuclear negotiations will only follow the initial agreement's implementation. Iran also warned that any Israeli attack on Lebanon would violate the pact, viewing the US and Israel as a single party in the arrangement.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:16 WIB
Jakarta's Air Quality Ranks Second Worst in the World
Jakarta's air quality was recorded as the second worst globally on Wednesday morning, with an AQI of 175 categorised as unhealthy. The city's PM2.5 concentration reached 88.5 micrograms per cubic metre, prompting health advisories for residents. Governor Pramono Anung has outlined plans to expand public transport and electrify the bus fleet to tackle vehicle emissions, which account for half of the capital's pollution.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:13 WIB
Mobile SIM Card Services Available at Five Jakarta Locations on Wednesday
The Jakarta Metro Police traffic directorate is offering mobile driving licence renewal services at five locations across the capital on Wednesday. The service, available from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., only handles renewals for valid SIM A and SIM C licences. Applicants must bring required documents and pay fees set by government regulation.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:11 WIB
Trump-Netanyahu Rift? Donald Trump Criticises Israeli Strikes on Lebanon
Donald Trump has publicly rebuked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling recent bombings in Beirut 'cruel' and demanding more responsible action in Lebanon. The criticism comes as Iran claims a US-brokered peace deal requires full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, while Gulf states propose a $300 billion investment package for Iran conditional on it abandoning its nuclear weapons programme.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:10 WIB
Jakarta Recap: Islamic New Year festivities to West Jakarta fire
A roundup of Tuesday's key events in Jakarta includes a vibrant Islamic New Year 1448 H parade in East Jakarta, a noted 10 percent drop in mall footfall due to weakened purchasing power, and a fire at a building under construction in Kebon Jeruk.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:05 WIB
Reflecting on a Year of the Unified Global Hijri Calendar
Muhammadiyah marks one year since officially adopting the Unified Global Hijri Calendar (KHGT), a system designed to synchronise Islamic dates worldwide. The initiative has garnered international praise for modernising Islamic civilisation but faces persistent criticism from those adhering to local moon-sighting traditions. The core challenge lies in shifting a centuries-old paradigm from regional rukyat to a global astronomical calculation.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:01 WIB
The Chronology of Students Storming a Discussion with Three Officials at UGM That Ended in Chaos
A public discussion featuring three senior Indonesian officials at Gadjah Mada University descended into chaos when protesting students stormed the stage, leading to heated confrontations and the officials' evacuation. Student representatives argued the panellists were unfit to discuss Pancasila while government policies harm the public, whereas the officials claimed they were open to dialogue but forced to leave after the situation became physically unsafe.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:00 WIB
China pushes cross-border data trade with Southeast Asia as AI fuels demand
China is advancing its ambition to trade data across borders, with a new partnership between the Shenzhen Data Exchange and Malaysia's Zetrix AI highlighting Southeast Asia as a key focus. The initiative aims to create a marketplace for data access rights and insights, driven by growing AI demand for localised training data. However, the nascent sector faces significant challenges around data valuation, ownership, and governance before it can function like a true 'stock exchange for data'.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:00 WIB
Reading the Early Warnings from International Institutions
The OECD and Fitch Ratings have issued reports highlighting the severe global economic repercussions of the Iran conflict, including rising energy costs and inflation. Indonesia's growth forecast has been revised down to 4.7% for 2026 amid these external pressures, while central banks worldwide are adopting tighter monetary policies. The reports urge careful fiscal management as governments face limited budgetary space to cushion the impact on households and businesses.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 05:00 WIB
Vice President Gibran Urges Indonesian Students and Teachers to Master AI
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has called on all Indonesian students and teachers to master artificial intelligence, arguing the nation must become a key player rather than a spectator in the global digital transformation. He stressed that AI should be used as a tool to accelerate learning and reduce administrative burdens, while cautioning against its potential to erode critical thinking and ethics. The push aligns with the government's vision for Indonesia Emas 2045 and follows the completion of a national AI governance readiness assessment with UNESCO.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 04:54 WIB
Japan Innovation Party Pushes for Nuclear Submarines in Maritime Self-Defence Force
Japan's opposition Innovation Party has unveiled a draft proposal urging the Maritime Self-Defence Force to acquire nuclear-powered submarines and calling for a 'realistic review' of the country's non-nuclear principles. The proposal, set to be submitted to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, signals a potential shift in Japan's security policy under the current coalition government.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 04:50 WIB
Fearing Aftershocks, Palu Residents Forced to Sleep Outdoors
Residents of Palu, Central Sulawesi, are sleeping outside their homes following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake, fearing potential aftershocks. Many have set up makeshift beds on terraces and in yards, while monitoring official updates from the government and the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 04:37 WIB
FBI Foils Drone Bomb and Sniper Plot Targeting UFC Event at White House, Five Men Arrested
The FBI has thwarted an alleged terrorist plot involving explosive-laden drones and snipers targeting a UFC event at the White House attended by 4,300 guests. Five men were arrested across multiple US states after the mother of one suspect reported his suspicious weapons purchases and online communications. The case has prompted a rare public disclosure and exposed minor tensions between the FBI and the Secret Service over the handling of the investigation.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 04:25 WIB
PM Modi to Visit Jakarta Next Month, Indian Ambassador Meets Cabinet Secretary Teddy
Indian Ambassador Shri Sandeep Chakravorty met with Indonesian Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya in Jakarta to discuss bilateral cooperation and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's planned visit. Modi is scheduled to meet President Prabowo Subianto in July 2026, with the ambassador highlighting India's 1.4 billion population and 150,000-strong diaspora in Indonesia as a basis for closer ties.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 04:24 WIB
US Investors Dominate Purchases of Danantara's First Global Bonds
Indonesia's Danantara Investment Management Agency raised $1.5 billion in its debut global bond issuance, significantly exceeding its $1 billion target due to overwhelming demand. In a notable shift, US investors became the dominant buyers, accounting for 52% of the 10-year bond subscriptions, displacing the historically strong Asian market. CEO Rosan Roeslani attributed the success to robust confidence in Indonesia's economic fundamentals and attractive market valuations following a domestic stock market correction.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 04:18 WIB
Turkey Concerned Over Escalating Russian Attacks in Ukraine
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has expressed serious concern over the recent escalation in Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilian targets and the threat to Black Sea navigation. Turkey has reiterated its readiness to mediate between Moscow and Kyiv to end the four-year war. The remarks follow deadly Russian strikes across Ukraine and a Ukrainian counter-attack on a Moscow oil refinery.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 04:10 WIB
UN Chief Guterres Apologises to Haitians Amid Gang Violence Crisis
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has apologised to the people of Haiti for the international community's neglect during a visit to the gang-ravaged nation. He acknowledged the immense suffering of displaced families while noting a 'glimmer' of hope, as the country faces a critical humanitarian situation with millions facing severe food insecurity.
Wed, 17 Jun 2026, 04:00 WIB
Jakarta to Hold Grand Haul for Betawi Ulama and Habaib Ahead of 499th Anniversary
The Jakarta provincial government will host a Grand Haul for Betawi ulama and habaib at Monas on 19 June 2026 as part of the city's 499th anniversary celebrations. The event aims to honour religious figures who laid the foundation for harmony and to reinforce spiritual values amid Jakarta's transformation into a global city. A directory documenting 176 religious figures has also been compiled, alongside a city-wide mosque cleaning initiative.