Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 June 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,429 articles

Pintu's Commitment to Legal Compliance Appreciated

Indonesian crypto platform Pintu has received the Notable Enterprise in Regulatory Compliance Gold award for the second consecutive year at the 2026 Indonesia Regulatory Compliance Awards. The award, organised by Hukumonline, recognises the company's dedication to responsible corporate governance, user protection, and continuous innovation within the digital asset industry. Pintu's VP of Legal, Compliance, & Government Relations stated the recognition reinforces the firm's commitment to building a safe and accessible investment ecosystem.

ASEAN-Russia Summit: Expert says Indonesia has charisma to safeguard cooperation

Indonesia's presence at the ASEAN-Russia Summit is strategically vital for strengthening the partnership, according to international relations expert Teuku Rezasyah. He argues that as ASEAN's founding member with the largest economy and population, Indonesia possesses unique charisma to ensure the continuity and stability of cooperation amid global geopolitical dynamics. The summit, held in Kazan, was represented by Foreign Minister Sugiono after President Prabowo Subianto cancelled his attendance to focus on domestic priorities.

House Criticises Tourism Minister Over Indonesia's 5th Place ASEAN Tourist Ranking

An Indonesian lawmaker has sharply criticised the Tourism Minister, stating that Indonesia's foreign tourist arrivals rank a disappointing fifth in ASEAN despite its vast potential. The House of Representatives member urged cross-ministerial coordination to lower airfares and ease visa restrictions for key markets like India and China to boost foreign exchange earnings.

PBNU Chair Ulil Declines Comment on Religious Affairs Minister's Candidacy, Notes Two-Term Tradition

PBNU Chairman Ulil Abshar Abdalla has declined to comment specifically on the emergence of Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar as a potential candidate for the organisation's top post. He described the pre-Muktamar speculation as normal, noting that typically a PBNU chairman serves two terms. Ulil stated that the final decision rests with the branch and regional administrators at the upcoming congress.

NTB partners with BRIN to accelerate science-based development

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government is collaborating with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) to drive science-led development. The partnership will focus on research into clean water sources, aquaculture technology, and the downstream processing of animal feed. The initiative aims to support strategic regional programmes, including the 'Desa Berdaya' (Empowered Villages) scheme currently active in 106 villages.

Mataram City Government to Relocate 36 Fishmongers in Market Reorganisation

The Mataram Fisheries Department is relocating 36 registered fishmongers from a temporary waste disposal site to the Bintaro Fishermen's Complex this week. The city government has allocated Rp 900 million from the 2026 regional budget to construct roofing for the stalls, with plans to complete the market and install permanent sanitation pending additional funding.

Govt targets 19.1 million foreign tourists visit to Indonesia by 2027

Indonesia's Tourism Minister announced ambitious targets to attract up to 19.1 million foreign tourists by 2027, exceeding the 2026 goal, as part of a strategy to boost the national economy. The plan includes developing priority destinations, increasing foreign exchange earnings to US$28.6 billion, and raising tourism's GDP contribution to 4.8 percent. The ministry has been allocated Rp1.01 trillion to support these goals, which also aim to generate 27.33 million jobs and spur investment in the sector.

The Dangers of Self-Diagnosis: Parents Urged Not to Guess Children's Milk Allergy Symptoms

A paediatric allergy consultant warns Indonesian parents against the growing trend of self-diagnosing cow's milk protein allergy in children via the internet. She stresses that inaccurate guesswork can delay proper treatment and harm a child's development, urging medical consultation instead. The allergy, often linked to genetic factors, commonly manifests in digestive, skin, and respiratory symptoms.

South Korea Hopes Trump Will Intervene on the Korean Peninsula

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has urged US President Donald Trump to spearhead peace efforts with North Korea, drawing parallels to his role in resolving Middle East tensions. The appeal follows Trump's announcement of an Iran deal and his social media post recalling the 2018 Singapore summit with Kim Jong Un. However, experts remain sceptical, noting Pyongyang's continued rejection of Seoul's overtures and its self-declared irreversible nuclear status.

Minister says tourism villages contribute to tourism economy

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has highlighted the positive economic impact of Indonesia's tourism village programme, noting a significant rise in local revenue. The number of registered tourism villages has grown to 6,262, while income at 50 award-winning villages surged by over 29 percent to Rp59.60 billion in 2025. The minister emphasised that increased budget allocation is an investment to boost Indonesia's tourism competitiveness.

Social Affairs Ministry Prepares Two Pathways for First Sekolah Rakyat Graduates

The Ministry of Social Affairs is developing post-graduation schemes for the first 11 senior high school students completing the Sekolah Rakyat programme this academic year. Minister Saifullah Yusuf outlined two pathways: intensive academic mentoring for university entry or a skilled employment track being coordinated with the manpower and migrant worker protection ministries. The ministry is also preparing for a major transition to 93 new permanent school buildings and a quota expansion to 35,000 new students in mid-2026.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Proposes Rp40.7 Trillion Budget Increase for 2027

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has formally requested an additional Rp40.75 trillion in the 2027 state budget, citing an indicative ceiling of only Rp58.24 trillion which is insufficient to cover all programmes. The proposal, which would bring the ministry's total budget to nearly Rp99 trillion, includes funds for improving education service quality and meeting increased teacher allowance obligations. The House of Representatives' Commission X has expressed its support for the additional allocation to back national education priorities.

Elon Musk's Wealth Surpasses Bitcoin Market Cap Following SpaceX IPO

Elon Musk's net worth has exceeded the entire market capitalisation of Bitcoin, reaching USD 1.32 trillion after a dramatic surge in his wealth. The increase was driven by the initial public offering of his space exploration company, SpaceX, whose shares rose sharply over three consecutive trading days. SpaceX's valuation has now made it the world's fifth most valuable company, briefly overtaking Amazon.

BI Rate Hike: Will Digital Banks Spark a Deposit Rate War?

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) views rising deposit rates at digital banks as a natural response to Bank Indonesia's benchmark rate increase. Digital lenders, heavily reliant on costly third-party funds, are expected to compete more aggressively with larger banks for deposits. Despite the potential for tighter competition, regulators and bank executives believe the financial system remains stable and liquidity sufficient.

Government to Overhaul Outdated Cooperatives Law

The Indonesian government is preparing to amend the 34-year-old Cooperatives Law, deeming it no longer relevant to current economic dynamics. Key revisions will address digital technology adoption, the establishment of a supervisory body and a deposit insurance scheme for savings and loan cooperatives, and the careful formulation of criminal sanctions to protect members without enabling excessive criminalisation.

Pakualaman strengthens customary preservation and community welfare

The Duchy of Pakualaman in Yogyakarta is marking its 214th anniversary with a series of events that blend cultural preservation with direct community benefits. The programme includes free mass circumcisions and a traditional market aimed at empowering local micro-enterprises. Organisers say the theme emphasises spiritual harmony and social togetherness.

BRI Multiguna Loan Eases New School Year Financial Preparations

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is promoting its Multiguna payroll-based loan facility as a solution for parents facing the financial burden of the upcoming school year. The unsecured loan offers flexible tenors of up to 15 years and a quick disbursement process. It is designed for salaried employees whose wages are paid through BRI payroll.

Indonesia Holds Strategic Role in Global Energy Transition, Says Energy Ministry

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has emphasised the country's strategic importance in the global energy transition due to its vast reserves of critical minerals. The ministry stressed that downstream industrial development must align with resource sustainability to maximise economic value. Officials noted that nearly all clean energy technologies depend on minerals Indonesia produces, such as nickel, tin, and bauxite.

Analyst: C-130 MRO presence will have a positive multiplier effect for Indonesia

The planned maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) centre for C-130 Hercules aircraft at Kertajati Airport is expected to boost Indonesia's defence self-sufficiency and stimulate the local economy. A defence analyst highlights benefits including technology transfer, human resource development, and opportunities for domestic defence industry suppliers. The Ministry of Defence confirms the project is still in the planning and concept maturation phase.

Students Criticise MBG and Kopdes Merah Putih Programmes, Here's Vice President Gibran's Response

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has responded to student protests criticising the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) programmes. He stated the government is committed to improving the governance of both initiatives to ensure they are effective, efficient, and free from corruption. The administration believes these reforms are crucial for maintaining public trust and strengthening the national economy.

Danantara Targets State-Owned Insurance Merger to Begin September 2026

Indonesia's Danantara investment authority and the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises are pushing to consolidate 15 state-owned insurance firms into just three entities by early 2027. The technical merger process is expected to conclude by July 2026, with the legal merger commencing in September 2026. The restructuring aims to create a healthier, more efficient, and competitive insurance sector, though industry players have raised concerns about the impact on performance and the concurrent mandatory spin-off of sharia units.

James F Sundah Foundation and ISI Yogyakarta Launch Copyright Research Scholarship

The James F. Sundah Foundation, established in memory of the late Indonesian composer, has partnered with the Indonesian Institute of the Arts (ISI) Yogyakarta to launch a fellowship programme. The initiative will fund final-year student research into copyright, royalties, and intellectual property protection in the digital era. The programme aims to strengthen IP literacy and generate policy recommendations to protect creators' rights in Indonesia.

Human Rights Ministry to Focus Rp953.1 Billion Budget on P5HAM Services

The Indonesian Ministry of Human Rights (KemenHAM) has secured approval for a Rp953.1 billion budget from House Commission XIII, which will be directed towards strengthening the P5HAM framework. Minister Natalius Pigai stated the 2027 allocation aims to enhance core functions including policy formulation, human rights awareness, and complaint services. Lawmakers emphasised the funds must deliver tangible benefits to the public and improve the ministry's presence in addressing human rights issues.

Ukraine to expand use of AI-powered autonomous drones to fight Russia

Ukraine plans to significantly broaden the operational deployment of fully autonomous AI-based drones by the end of the year to counter Russian forces. The expansion aims to enhance precision and target identification, helping Kyiv seize the initiative against a numerically superior adversary. Officials also indicated ambitions to extend the strike zone deep into Russian territory and to foster international cooperation on AI combat models, including with Japan.

DPR Member Distributes 1,000 Rice Packages to Poor Residents in Kendari

Indonesian House of Representatives member Jaelani has distributed 1,000 rice packages to low-income residents in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, to help ease their economic burden. The aid targeted daily wage workers and the elderly, with Jaelani describing it as a moral obligation as a people's representative. He pledged to continue similar social programmes and advocate for welfare-oriented policies at the national level.

AI Regulation Proposed as Law, Says Deputy Minister

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Nezar Patria, has revealed that the House of Representatives' Legislation Body informally proposed drafting a dedicated Artificial Intelligence law. While the government agrees on the need for a more comprehensive legal framework in the long term, it is currently prioritising a Presidential Regulation on a national AI roadmap. The proposed law aims to provide stronger legal certainty for investors and clearer boundaries for AI development risks.

KPK Grills Yaqut's Special Staff on Alleged Payments to DPR Hajj Committee

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has interrogated a former special staff member of ex-Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas regarding suspected illicit payments to a House of Representatives (DPR) special committee. The questioning is part of an ongoing investigation into corruption within the hajj quota system, which has already resulted in four suspects being detained. State losses in the case are estimated at Rp 622 billion.

Is Money the Stumbling Block in the US-Iran Deal?

A proposed US-Iran peace deal is facing fierce opposition from American conservatives over reports that Tehran could gain access to $300 billion in reconstruction funds. The White House insists the money would come from Gulf Arab states, not US taxpayers, and would be conditional on Iran changing its behaviour. Critics argue the plan contradicts Donald Trump's past attacks on Barack Obama for giving Iran financial access, calling it a far larger potential windfall for a state sponsor of terrorism.

KPK Halts MBG Investigation After Attorney General Names Suspects

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has suspended its investigation into alleged corruption in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The decision follows the Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) advancing its own probe to the investigation stage and naming suspects. KPK officials cited legal provisions against dual investigations and will coordinate with the Kejagung, potentially transferring their evidence.

IKN Authority Details Strategy to Reduce Stunting to 18% Towards a Golden Generation

The Nusantara Capital City (IKN) Authority is tackling a persistent 18% stunting rate through a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder strategy. The approach focuses on preventive interventions from pre-pregnancy onwards, involving local health centres, national agencies, and trained community health volunteers. Officials aim to eliminate new stunting cases entirely to secure a healthy future generation for the new capital.

PLN East Java: Power Outages Caused by Technical Operational Issues at Generating Plants

State electricity firm PLN has attributed recent blackouts across Surabaya, Sidoarjo, and Gresik to technical operational problems at power plants that reduced supply capacity. The company is deploying all available resources to restore normal operations and has implemented limited load management to maintain grid stability. Residents have reported sudden outages lasting two to five hours daily, with some major roads in Surabaya left in darkness for hours, posing risks to motorists.

China targets 40 percent penetration of new energy heavy-duty trucks by 2030

Eleven Chinese government departments have jointly released an ambitious plan to accelerate the green transition in road freight, targeting a 40 percent market penetration rate for new energy heavy-duty trucks (NE-HDT) by 2030. The policy aims to deploy over 1.6 million units, supported by significant infrastructure investment including 3,000 charging and battery-swap stations. The push is driven by both environmental goals to cut transport emissions and the improving total cost of ownership compared to conventional diesel trucks.

Ministry of Social Affairs to Recruit 5,000 Teachers for 'Sekolah Rakyat' This Year

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs plans to recruit over 5,000 teachers and education staff this year to address shortages in the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme. The move follows hundreds of resignations last year, which Minister Saifullah Yusuf attributed to remote placements. Observers have criticised the centralised placement system for ignoring teachers' domiciles and called for greater involvement of local governments.

Budget Efficiency: Serang City Government Utilises CSR for Road Repairs

The Serang city administration is leveraging corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds to address infrastructure needs amid budget constraints in 2026. A 517-metre road project on Jalan Kenari has been fully financed by a private company, with the government planning to extend the construction using its own 2027 budget. The city is prioritising concrete paving over asphalt for greater durability against heavy vehicles.

Syrian Professor Calls Indonesia a 'Human Bomb', Comparable to Pakistan's Nuclear Power

A Syrian academic has described Indonesia's large Muslim population as a 'human bomb' that represents a significant strength for Islamic civilisation. Speaking at a forum in Jakarta, Prof Muhammad Khaer Al-Ghubani argued that human development is more important than economic or social progress. He also urged the establishment of research centres and university faculties focused on crisis management based on the Quran.

Analysis of the 14-Point US-Iran MoU: Does It Really Benefit the Islamic Republic?

A leaked draft of a 14-point memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran, set to be signed in Switzerland, outlines terms for ending hostilities and includes significant concessions to Tehran. The deal proposes a permanent ceasefire across multiple fronts, including Lebanon, and commits the US to lifting its naval blockade and contributing to a $300 billion economic rehabilitation plan for Iran. Key challenges remain, particularly Israel's continued strikes against Iran-backed militias and the ambitious 60-day timeline to finalise a comprehensive peace agreement.

Straight to A&E, No Wait: Yuni Praises JKN's Swift, Non-Discriminatory Care

A Yogyakarta resident has praised Indonesia's National Health Insurance (JKN) for providing immediate and equitable care when her husband was rushed to A&E. Yuni Kaswanti highlighted the seamless administration and lack of discrimination between JKN patients and general patients at Dr. Soetarto Hospital. She noted the programme's crucial financial protection, covering all treatment costs without additional fees since 2016.

Kebon Sayur Residents Besiege Kapuk Sub-district Office Over Land Dispute

Over a hundred residents of Kebon Sayur staged a protest at the Kapuk Sub-district office in West Jakarta, demanding the local chief sign a document recognising their physical control of disputed land. The Jakarta administration refused the demand, citing ongoing legal disputes involving Pertamina and a private party, and referencing government regulations that prevent such certification during a conflict. The situation is now reported as conducive while the municipality coordinates further steps.

DPR Member Stresses Investment Must Benefit Society, Not Just Exploit Resources

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has emphasised that incoming investment must deliver tangible benefits to local communities and national development, rather than merely exploiting natural resources. The statement was made following a working meeting with the Minister of Investment and Downstreaming to discuss the 2027 work plan and budget. The legislator urged support for the ministry's efforts to attract high-quality, sustainable investment that creates jobs and strengthens regional economies.

Tuban Police Distribute 40,000 Litres of Clean Water to Three Drought-Affected Villages

The Tuban District Police have distributed 40,000 litres of clean water to three villages in Grabagan Subdistrict as part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations. The aid targets communities in Gesikan, Ngandong, and Grabagan that regularly face water shortages during the dry season. The initiative aims to provide practical relief and demonstrate solidarity with affected residents.

Agriculture Ministry Says 2026 Dry Season Differs from 2015 and 2023, Here's Why

Indonesia's Agriculture Ministry has assured that the 2026 dry season will not be as severe as the El Niño-driven droughts of 2015 and 2023, citing more moderate climate data. The government is implementing extensive mitigation measures, including expanding irrigation, deploying drought-resistant seed varieties, and accelerating planting cycles, to safeguard national food production and maintain self-sufficiency targets.

House Commission XIII: Statement that MBG Violates Human Rights is Inaccurate!

Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's Commission XIII has rejected a statement by Komnas HAM suggesting the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme indicates human rights violations. He argues the programme is a concrete fulfilment of economic and social rights, such as the right to food, and that implementation shortcomings should not be conflated with human rights abuses. The legislator insists that any assessment of rights violations requires a thorough investigation, not a direct conclusion based on governance issues.

INDEF: Midstream Sector Can Accelerate Critical Mineral Downstreaming

INDEF's Green Transition Initiative suggests strengthening the midstream mineral processing sector as a more realistic initial step for Indonesia's downstream ambitions. The approach could significantly boost value addition and exports, though it must be paired with stronger domestic raw material supply to avoid increased imports.

Prabowo Satisfied with 2026 Hajj Organisation, Urges Faster Waiting Times for Pilgrims

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed satisfaction with the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage operations and directed improvements for 2027, including better food, accommodation, and earlier preparations. Religious Affairs Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf highlighted achievements such as faster visa issuance and the elimination of pilgrims being separated from their families. The government is also introducing multiyear service contracts to boost quality and encourage investment in facilities.

Social Affairs Minister assures budget efficiency will not cut social aid or Sekolah Rakyat student quota

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has confirmed that the government's budget efficiency drive will not reduce the allocation for social assistance or the number of students enrolled in the Sekolah Rakyat programme this year. Operational spending is being trimmed, but the quota for programmes like the Family Hope Programme and Non-Cash Food Assistance remains at 18 million beneficiary families. The ministry is also seeking a near doubling of the indicative budget ceiling for 2027 to accommodate a projected surge in students from the lowest economic deciles.

Menkeu Purbaya Temui Menteri Keuangan Tiongkok, Indonesia Perkuat Strategi Pembiayaan

Menteri Keuangan Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa melakukan pertemuan bilateral dengan Menteri Keuangan Tiongkok Lan Fo'an di Beijing untuk memperkuat akses pembiayaan pembangunan dan memperdalam kemitraan ekonomi. Indonesia menegaskan posisi tawarnya yang kuat berkat fundamental ekonomi yang terjaga, termasuk rasio utang terkendali dan defisit aman. Kunjungan ini juga mempersiapkan penerbitan sovereign Panda Bond serta pertemuan dengan lembaga keuangan utama Tiongkok guna mendiversifikasi sumber pendanaan.

KAI records 15,000 passengers using Siliwangi train during long holiday

PT KAI Daop 2 Bandung reported 15,825 passengers on the KA Siliwangi service during the Islamic New Year holiday period from 12 to 16 June 2026. Cianjur Station saw the highest departures, highlighting the train's growing role in supporting mobility, economic activity, and tourism in the Cianjur-Sukabumi corridor. Passengers have expressed hope for the route to be extended back to Bandung to provide affordable, congestion-free travel.

South Sulawesi Prosecutor's Office Raids Education Department Over IDR 13 Billion Digital Library Corruption

Investigators from the South Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office have raided the provincial Education Department in connection with an alleged corruption case involving a digital library project. The project, funded by the regional budget, had a total allocation of over IDR 13 billion across the 2022 and 2023 fiscal years. The raid focused on seizing planning documents, contracts, and financial disbursement records to gather evidence.

AGO Seals BGN Electric Motorcycle Warehouse in Sentul Over MBG Corruption

The Attorney General's Office has sealed a warehouse storing electric motorcycles for the National Nutrition Agency in Sentul, West Java, as part of an investigation into corruption within the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Investigators are auditing the inventory to prevent assets from being moved, while urging the agency to distribute the vehicles for their intended public service use. Five suspects, including former BGN officials and a company commissioner, have been named in the case involving marked-up procurement costs.

Abrasion Triggers Landslide in Kuala Enok, 14 Homes Affected

Coastal abrasion and unstable soil conditions caused a landslide in Kuala Enok, Indragiri Hilir Regency, Riau, damaging 14 homes and sweeping four into a nearby river. Public facilities including a temple, road, and port were also damaged, with total losses estimated at Rp320 million. Emergency response teams have evacuated residents and established aid posts, with no casualties reported.