Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 June 2026

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WWF Indonesia Strengthens Leatherback Turtle Conservation in Buru Through TFCCA

WWF Indonesia has launched a conservation project for leatherback turtles on Buru Island, Maluku, under the Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation Act. The initiative aims to protect critical nesting habitats and strengthen the management of a newly designated marine conservation area. Officials highlight the project's dual goal of safeguarding endangered species and delivering economic benefits to local communities.

Police Investigate Motorcycle Fire After Refuelling at Ragunan Petrol Station

A motorcycle burst into flames moments after refuelling with subsidised Pertalite at a petrol station in South Jakarta, prompting a police investigation. The rider escaped unharmed but the vehicle was completely destroyed, while station staff quickly contained the fire and prevented it from spreading to the facility. Authorities are examining CCTV footage and witness statements to determine the cause of the incident.

China to Host World AI Conference 2026 in Shanghai in July

China will host the World Artificial Intelligence Conference 2026 and a High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai this July. A senior official stated the events aim to strengthen international AI cooperation and promote multilateral, human-centred governance. China also pledged to explore regulatory collaboration and address AI security risks.

IHSG Surges 17% in Five Days: Here's What's Driving the Rally

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) has rebounded sharply, gaining over 17% in five trading sessions, driven by a wave of corporate share buybacks and anticipation of key MSCI announcements. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) noted that buyback commitments from 65 issuers, totalling Rp65.34 trillion in allocated funds, have begun to positively influence market sentiment. Investors are also seen collecting undervalued blue-chip stocks ahead of MSCI's accessibility review and market classification decisions later this month.

Indonesia's Geothermal Projects Become a Magnet for Global Green Investment

Indonesia's geothermal energy sector is attracting significant interest from international investors seeking stable, long-term green assets. The inclusion of three strategic Pertamina Geothermal Energy projects in the government's Green Book 2026 highlights the country's readiness to secure funding. Revenue from electricity sales to PLN, denominated in US dollars, further shields investors from rupiah volatility.

House Commission VII Urges Tourism Ministry to Prioritise Community-Impact Programmes

Indonesia's House Commission VII has called on the Ministry of Tourism to rebalance its budget, noting that over 50 per cent is allocated to management support while only 15 per cent funds frontline community programmes. The commission also flagged the removal of the Special Allocation Fund for tourism in the 2027 budget, warning it could deprive regions of vital financing for destination development.

Minister Unveils Five Strategic Pillars to Strengthen Civil Servant Integrity

The Indonesian government has launched a digital anti-corruption training programme for civil servants, aiming to embed integrity through continuous learning. Minister Rini Widyantini outlined five strategic pillars, including making integrity the core of bureaucratic reform and mandating participation via a ministerial circular. The initiative, developed with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), exceeded its pilot target by training over 62,000 civil servants.

Automotive Industry Begins Adopting AI Technology

Indonesian tech firm AtlasGo is expanding into the automotive sector through a partnership with Sun Motor Mitsubishi to deploy its AI-driven DealerView platform. The tool analyses prospective buyer behaviour and digitises the sales process, aiming to help dealers adapt to increasingly online consumer research habits. The move marks AtlasGo's diversification beyond its established property sector solution, ProperView.

Kagama Muda Supports UGM Students Disrupting Discussion with Budiman Sudjatmiko and Officials

The Kagama Muda activist alumni group has endorsed the protest by Gadjah Mada University students who disrupted a discussion featuring three state officials. The group argues the students' action is a legitimate critique of the government's focus on Pancasila rhetoric while ignoring pressing economic crises, including rising prices and a weakening rupiah. They further warn of democratic backsliding and demand the state respond substantively to public grievances rather than viewing criticism as a threat.

Mangrove Destroyers and Illegal Charcoal Producers in Riau to Face Trial Soon

Riau Police have transferred three suspects accused of destroying mangrove forests and running illegal charcoal operations in the Kepulauan Meranti Regency to prosecutors. The suspects, including financiers and a vessel captain, allegedly produced over 100 tonnes of mangrove charcoal for export to Malaysia over a period of two to three years. They face up to 10 years in prison under Indonesia's forestry and environmental protection laws.

DPR Applauds Hajj Implementation Under Prabowo, Pilgrim Queue Reduced by 26 Years

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has praised significant improvements in the organisation of the Hajj pilgrimage under President Prabowo Subianto's administration. Key achievements include a reduction in pilgrimage costs by approximately Rp 6 million and a dramatic shortening of the waiting list from up to 40 years to around 26 years. Lawmakers also highlighted enhanced accommodation, catering, and immigration services for Indonesian pilgrims.

Australian Yacht Found Stranded in Rote, NTT, Crew Missing

An Australian-flagged yacht named Balamara was discovered stranded and abandoned on a beach in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara. Police have secured the vessel and recovered documents, including a sale and purchase agreement, along with electronic items, but no crew or passengers were found. Authorities are coordinating with relevant agencies to trace the yacht's origins and locate the missing crew.

A Glimpse into the SPMB Post: Serving Prospective Students and Live Streaming

Jakarta's 2026 New Student Admission (SPMB) system is actively assisting prospective students through dedicated posts and live streaming services. The programme includes a Free Private School initiative offering over 10,000 seats across various educational levels to reduce inequality. Four admission pathways—Achievement, Affirmation, Domicile, and Mutation—are available to cater to different student backgrounds.

Six Cats and Six Pigeons Detained in Kuala Tungkal Over Missing Quarantine Documents

Animal, fish and plant quarantine officers in Jambi have detained six cats, six pigeons, and agricultural products arriving from the Riau Islands at Kuala Tungkal port due to a lack of required quarantine documentation. The head of Jambi Quarantine emphasised the action was a commitment to biosecurity and preventing the spread of pests and diseases. The seizure also included shallots and garlic, which are subject to movement restrictions from certain areas like Batam.

Performance Grows, Pelindo Contributes IDR 7.81 Trillion to the State for 2025 Financial Year

State-owned port operator Pelindo increased its contribution to the Indonesian government by 5% to IDR 7.81 trillion in the 2025 financial year, driven by taxes, dividends, and non-tax revenue. The company also reported a 9% rise in operating revenue to IDR 35.48 trillion, supported by a 5% increase in container throughput to 19.8 million TEUs. Positive momentum has continued into early 2026, with container traffic up 7% year-on-year through May.

UGM Students Hold Press Conference: Explain Tensions at GIK and Call for Civil Movement

Students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) have publicly denounced what they describe as a repressive government and a sham dialogue forum, citing severe economic distress and democratic backsliding. They presented data on the rupiah's depreciation, rising unemployment, and disproportionate security spending, while demanding the release of political prisoners and the withdrawal of military influence from civilian life. The students also urged the university's rectorate to withdraw support for the Prabowo-Gibran administration.

Behind Israel’s Dangerous Move to Seize Control of Hebron’s Masjid Ibrahimi

Israel has unilaterally moved to seize planning and construction authority over the Masjid Ibrahimi area in Hebron from Palestinian control, partially dismantling the 1997 Hebron Agreement. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a far-right figure, announced the revocation of Palestinian municipal powers in the H2 zone, a decision international observers have labelled extremely dangerous given Hebron’s history of high tension. The site, revered by Muslims, Christians, and Jews as the burial place of Abraham, has been a flashpoint for violence, including a 1994 massacre of 29 Muslim worshippers.

Indonesia Ready to Become Southeast Asia's AI Data Centre Hub, BKPM Unveils Key Strategy in Batam

Indonesia is positioning Batam as a premier AI data centre hub in ASEAN to capitalise on the global surge in digital infrastructure demand. The Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) is spearheading the strategy as regional competition intensifies, with neighbouring Johor in Malaysia already attracting significant tech investment. This move underscores the government's commitment to leveraging digital growth for national infrastructure development.

OJK Strengthens PVML Industry Through Adaptive and Measured Policies

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has introduced a series of differentiated, adaptive policies for financing institutions, venture capital firms, and microfinance lenders (PVML) to bolster industry growth and stability. The measures, granted selectively upon company request, cover areas such as foreign ownership limits, minimum operational periods for shareholders, and a transition period for Buy Now Pay Later services. The OJK emphasises these policies are implemented prudently, adhering to good governance principles while balancing industry development with consumer protection.

BRI: Online Loan Borrowers Under IDR 1 Million Can Still Apply for KUR

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has confirmed that micro-entrepreneurs with a history of online loans below IDR 1 million are still eligible to apply for the government-subsidised People's Business Credit (KUR). This relaxation, aligned with new OJK rules on credit reporting, aims to broaden financing access for MSMEs. Applicants must still meet core requirements, including having an active business for at least six months and valid legal documentation.

Danantara Global Bonds Oversubscribed, Seen as Golden 'Buy Indonesia' Moment

Danantara Investment Management's debut US$1.5 billion global bond issuance was oversubscribed more than three times, attracting US$4.6 billion in orders. An academic says the strong demand from global institutional investors disproves pessimistic narratives about Indonesia's economy and signals a 'Buy Indonesia' stance. The high interest allowed final yields to be tightened by 35 basis points, saving an estimated US$5 million annually in interest costs.

Pelindo's State Contribution Rises 5% to Rp7.81 Trillion Amid Continued Growth

Indonesian state-owned port operator Pelindo increased its contribution to the state by 5% to Rp7.81 trillion in the 2025 financial year, driven by higher tax, dividend, and non-tax payments. The company also reported a 9% rise in operating revenue to Rp35.48 trillion, supported by growth in container and passenger traffic. Pelindo's management attributed the positive results to ongoing transformation efforts aimed at boosting national port competitiveness and supply chain efficiency.

500 'Brong' Exhaust Pipes Transformed into Komodo Dragon Statue in Labuan Bajo

Police in West Manggarai have collaborated with local artists to create a three-metre-tall Komodo dragon statue from 500 confiscated noisy motorcycle exhausts. The monument, installed near Labuan Bajo's tourist culinary hub, serves as both a visual icon and a humane symbol of law enforcement against noise pollution. The initiative aims to educate riders on preserving the tranquillity of the premium tourism destination while empowering the local creative economy.

Baznas: Strengthening productive zakat is key to facing global crisis

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has called for the urgent strengthening of productive zakat programmes to bolster public economic resilience amid a global crisis marked by declining purchasing power and rising prices. The initiative prioritises digitalisation to consolidate national zakat resources for more impactful empowerment. The government also emphasised structural transformation, positioning Islamic economics and halal industry downstreaming as pillars for national self-reliance.

Finance Minister Purbaya Meets Chinese Counterpart to Strengthen Financing Strategy

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa held bilateral talks with China's Finance Minister Lan Fo'an in Beijing to secure access to financing and broaden the investor base. The meeting is part of a long-term, disciplined government strategy to ensure sustainable development amid global challenges. Purbaya emphasised Indonesia's strong economic fundamentals, including controlled debt ratios and maintained growth, as a basis for mutually beneficial cooperation.

"Foufo" cast member makes acting debut at age 63

Siti Kam, a 63-year-old woman from Pamekasan, has made her feature film acting debut in the upcoming Indonesian drama "Foufo". Director Bayu Skak said her natural ability, particularly in emotional scenes, completed the family drama at the heart of the story. He hopes her late-career breakthrough will inspire others across Indonesia to pursue opportunities in the domestic film industry.

Panic Buying of Gold and Assets to Hide Corruption Proceeds

The Indonesian Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered a scheme where immigration officials allegedly converted bribe money into gold bars and luxury assets to conceal their illicit gains. Suspects reportedly panicked and withdrew cash from bank accounts to purchase gold, vehicles, and property after learning the KPK was expanding its investigation into extortion within immigration document services. The total value of assets seized so far, including cash, cryptocurrency, vehicles, and gold, amounts to approximately Rp 17.5 billion.

Prabowo Aims to Cut Hajj Queue to 26 Years from 40

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed a strong desire to reduce Indonesia's hajj waiting time from nearly 40 years to around 26 years. The House of Representatives' Hajj Monitoring Team also reported a reduction in pilgrimage costs over the past two years, benefiting approximately 240,000 prospective pilgrims. The government will explore further schemes to accelerate departures and shorten the decades-long queue.

Pigai: Blocking of Student Protest March to Hotel Indonesia Roundabout Complies with Regulations

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has defended the joint police-military action to block a student protest from reaching Jakarta's Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, citing compliance with a 2015 gubernatorial regulation. Pigai invoked the Siracusa Principles, arguing that restrictions on freedom of assembly are permissible to maintain public order in key business and traffic epicentres. The students, protesting under the banner 'Towards a Bankrupt Indonesia', were halted at the Semanggi area, with police stating the demonstration would have paralysed main roads and disrupted public activities.

Elnusa Petrofin and Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthen National Aviation Fuel Distribution Reliability

PT Elnusa Petrofin and PT Pertamina Patra Niaga have commenced the Bali-Nusa Tenggara Aviation Project to bolster the aviation fuel supply chain in a key super-priority tourism region. The initiative, launched at Lombok International Airport, extends Elnusa Petrofin's integrated energy logistics services to Java, Bali, and Nusa Tenggara. This collaboration reinforces the Pertamina Group's synergy in ensuring reliable energy distribution for the national aviation sector.

BPDP urges small enterprises to seize business opportunities in palm oil derivative products

Indonesia's Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) is encouraging micro, small, and cooperative enterprises (UKMK) to develop palm oil derivative products, even in regions that do not produce the raw material. The agency argues that a well-connected national supply chain eliminates raw material constraints, opening up business avenues in items like soap, cosmetics, and crafts. BPDP is backing this initiative with business incubation programmes, training workshops, and promotional support to boost local economies.

North Jakarta Government Trains RPTRA Managers in Storytelling to Build Children's Imagination

The North Jakarta city administration has provided storytelling training to 120 managers of Child-Friendly Integrated Public Spaces (RPTRA) to boost children's imagination and literacy. The initiative, a collaboration with corporate CSR, aims to use storytelling as an effective educational tool for instilling moral values and empathy from an early age. Officials emphasised the growing importance of warm, interactive spaces for children amid rapid digital technology development.

Minister Pigai on Andrie Yunus Acid Attack Verdict: Once Sentenced, It Cannot Be Challenged

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has stated that all citizens must respect the military court's verdict against four soldiers convicted of an acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus. The court handed down prison sentences ranging from 1.5 to 3 years, with two defendants also dismissed from the military. Pigai emphasised that the ruling is final and must not be opposed.

Social Affairs Ministry prepares aid for Central Sulawesi earthquake victims

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has readied emergency logistics and socio-economic support for survivors of the magnitude 6.7 earthquake in Central Sulawesi. Minister Saifullah Yusuf stated that field teams are on site coordinating with local authorities, though the exact number of affected families is still being confirmed. The disaster has impacted 1,834 households, with Sigi Regency suffering the most severe damage, including one fatality and extensive housing destruction.

KPK Summons Audit Watch Founder Again, Investigates Alleged Payments to Customs

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has re-examined Iskandar Sitorus, founder of Indonesia Audit Watch, regarding suspected illicit payments from PT Blueray to officials within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Sitorus, acting as the company's non-litigation attorney, is being questioned to strengthen evidence in an ongoing import corruption trial. The case involves six suspects and the seizure of assets worth approximately Rp 40.5 billion.

PLN IP Bali conserves forest through Pesraman Agung programme

PT PLN Indonesia Power's Bali unit is conserving protected forest and empowering local communities through the Pesraman Agung programme in Tabanan. The initiative integrates environmental, social, cultural, and economic aspects, providing clean water access to 55 families and irrigation for 74 hectares of farmland. The programme demonstrates that conservation and community welfare can advance together.

After a Year Battling Thyroid Issues, Ahmad Relies on JKN for Treatment

Ahmad Sugiri, a resident of Gunungkidul, has been undergoing monthly treatment for a thyroid condition for the past year, with all costs covered by Indonesia's National Health Insurance (JKN). After losing his factory job, he transitioned to a government-subsidised JKN scheme, which he says has been crucial. He also highlighted the convenience of the Mobile JKN app for managing appointments.

Traffic Management to Be Implemented at Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery Tomorrow, Check the Routes

The Jakarta Transportation Agency will enforce traffic diversions around the Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery in South Jakarta on Thursday, 18 June 2026, to facilitate a wreath-laying ceremony. Motorists are advised to adjust their travel routes and follow officers' directions to avoid congestion. The measures will be in place from 8:00 AM local time until the event concludes.

Riau Police Chief Introduces Green Policing, Urges Environmental Issues to Enter Security Perspective

Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan has proposed a 'Green Policing' concept that integrates ecological security into law enforcement duties. Speaking at a police academy event, he argued that environmental threats like forest fires and pollution are now critical security issues affecting social stability. The approach calls for using ecological data, such as peat moisture levels, as early warning signals alongside traditional crime indicators.

South Kalimantan Police Build 11 Boreholes to Improve Public Water Access

The South Kalimantan Regional Police (Polda Kalsel) is constructing 11 boreholes across the province to improve access to clean water and support food security through agricultural irrigation. The initiative, part of the national 'Polri Peduli Air Bersih' programme, targets areas with limited water access or prone to drought. The police chief urged communities to maintain the facilities for long-term, sustainable use.

Minister Meutya Urges ASEAN to Develop AI Governance to Prevent Digital Divide

Indonesia's Communication and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid has called on ASEAN nations to jointly establish artificial intelligence governance to avert a deepening digital divide. Speaking at the Asia Economic Summit 2026, she warned that uneven access to AI could exacerbate inequality within and between countries. She proposed a three-principled strategy—sovereign, interoperable, and trusted—to ensure the region's digital economy benefits all, including micro and small businesses.

Freeport Targets Full Recovery of Post-Landslide Mine Production by 2028

PT Freeport Indonesia expects its underground Grasberg Block Cave mine to return to 100 per cent production capacity by 2028 following a landslide in September 2025. The recovery will be gradual, with output projected at 50 per cent in the first half of 2026 and rising incrementally through 2027. Despite the disruption, the company estimates its annual contribution to Mimika Regency will remain around Rp4 trillion, supported by strong copper and gold prices.

Traffic on Jalan Mayjen Sutoyo Returns to Normal After UKI Student Protest

Traffic flow on Jalan Mayjen Sutoyo in East Jakarta has returned to normal following a student demonstration at the Indonesian Christian University (UKI). The protest, which lasted just over an hour, caused temporary congestion but ended peacefully after students read out their demands. Police confirmed the situation remained under control and no disturbances occurred.

Attorney General's Office Seals Electric Motorcycle Warehouse in Free Nutritious Meal Corruption Case

Investigators from the Indonesian Attorney General's Office have sealed a warehouse storing electric motorcycles belonging to the National Nutrition Agency in Bogor, West Java. The action is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in the procurement of goods for the Free Nutritious Meal programme, which has already seen five suspects named. The case involves suspected price mark-ups on various items, including over 21,000 electric motorcycles worth more than IDR 1 trillion.

West Bandung Regency Waives Tax Penalties, Residents Only Pay Principal

The West Bandung Regency government has introduced a tax penalty amnesty programme to mark its 19th anniversary, waiving administrative sanctions such as fines and interest. Running from 9 June to 31 August 2026, the initiative aims to ease the burden on taxpayers, improve compliance, and boost locally generated revenue. The programme covers several local taxes, including those on food and beverages, hotels, parking, and rural and urban land and building tax, but excludes levies on electricity, land and building acquisition fees, and certain vehicle taxes.

Prabowo Holds Over 2.5-Hour Meeting with Hajj Minister: Here's the Content

President Prabowo Subianto convened a lengthy meeting with the Hajj Minister, DPR leaders, and the Hajj Supervisory Team to evaluate the 2026 pilgrimage. The discussions focused on further reducing Hajj costs and shortening the waiting list, which has already been cut from 35-40 years to 26 years. The government is also exploring strategies to tackle rising service fees from Saudi Arabia and global economic challenges for the 2027 season.

DIY Tourism Office: Fashion a Potential Creative Economy Sub-sector for the Future

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) Tourism Office has identified fashion as a highly promising sub-sector within the creative economy, citing its significant contribution to the region's Gross Regional Domestic Product (PDRB). Data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) in 2024 shows the creative economy sector contributed 11.8 percent to DIY's PDRB, with fashion and crafts being the second-largest contributors after culinary. The main challenges facing the industry are market access and capital, rather than a lack of creative ideas.

Purbaya Enhances Financing Cooperation with China, Prepares Panda Bond Issuance

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa visited Beijing to strengthen bilateral economic ties and diversify the country's funding sources. The key agenda includes preparing for a Panda Bond issuance in the Chinese yuan market, alongside meetings with major financial institutions. The government emphasised Indonesia's strong economic fundamentals as a basis for strategic, long-term financing partnerships.

West Jakarta Government Tests Food Samples from Lapo Stalls Suspected of Selling Dog Meat

The West Jakarta city government has taken samples from a food stall suspected of selling dog meat dishes, following the implementation of a new gubernatorial regulation. Three of the four inspected stalls denied selling the prohibited meat, while one admitted to having done so for three months. The samples will be laboratory tested, and if confirmed, the Public Order Agency will take enforcement action under the regulation banning the trade and consumption of rabies-transmitting animal meat.

ChatGPT Increasingly Abandoned as Users Flock to Its Replacements

ChatGPT's market share has fallen below 50 per cent for the first time as users migrate to competitors like Google's Gemini and Anthropic's Claude. The shift is driven by tighter competition, privacy concerns, and innovative features from rivals, including cost-effective Chinese alternatives. Despite the decline, ChatGPT retains a massive user base amid a global surge in AI app downloads and consumer spending.