Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 17 June 2026

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Viral Video Shows Thief Stealing Tablet and Cash from Bogor Cafe, Police Investigate

A video of a burglary at a cafe in Cibinong, Bogor, has gone viral, showing a lone perpetrator stealing equipment and cash. Police have launched an investigation despite not yet receiving a formal report from the victim. The cafe reportedly suffered losses of around Rp 8 million.

Types of Coal and Export Requirements via Special State-Owned Enterprise PT DSI

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has issued a new regulation mandating that all exports of strategic coal commodities be channelled exclusively through the newly formed state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (PT DSI). The regulation, effective 1 June 2026, details the specific types of coal covered and the licensing requirements for registered coal exporters. This move centralises the export of key natural resources under a single government entity.

PDIP Urges Government to Act on Student Demands

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has called on the government to heed and act upon the demands raised by student protesters, particularly regarding governance issues. PDIP senior official Said Abdullah highlighted deficiencies in the management of the National Nutrition Agency and the free meal programme, suggesting the government should be more open to criticism.

Thousands of Klungkung Residents Flock to Kusamba Beach During Galungan

Thousands of residents in Klungkung, Bali, gathered at Kusamba Beach to celebrate the Galungan holiday with their families, continuing a local tradition. Some locals noted the crowd was smaller than in previous years, possibly due to weakened economic conditions or a shift to other beaches. The festive atmosphere provided a welcome opportunity for food and toy vendors despite a reported decline in sales compared to last year.

Batam City Government Reviews Mandatory Police Clearance for Newcomers Amid High Urbanisation

The Batam municipal government is considering a policy requiring newcomers to provide a Police Clearance Certificate (SKCK) when registering their domicile, in response to rapid urbanisation. Mayor Amsakar Achmad stated the proposal aims to strengthen administrative oversight without restricting freedom of movement. The review follows concerns over public order and recent arrests related to theft of public infrastructure.

Global EV registrations rise, driven by Europe, BMI data shows

Global electric vehicle registrations increased by 3% year-on-year in May 2026, reaching 1.8 million units, according to BMI. Europe led the growth with a 23% surge, while China and North America experienced declines of 9% and 26% respectively, prompting Chinese manufacturers to seek expansion in Europe.

Ministry of Tourism Targets 19.1 Million Foreign Tourist Arrivals in 2027

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism has set an ambitious target of 19.1 million foreign tourist arrivals by 2027, up from the 16-17.6 million target for 2026. The strategy focuses on quality and sustainable tourism development, including completing 10 priority destinations and building 3 regenerative ones, to boost economic contribution, foreign exchange, and job creation.

The Urgency of the Domestic Workers Protection Bill: Assessing the Future of Indonesia's Care Economy

The ratification of Indonesia's Domestic Workers Protection Bill (UU PPRT) is viewed as a foundational step towards building a formal care economy ecosystem. Senior journalist Saur Hutabarat argues that recognising the economic value of unpaid domestic work, including that performed by housewives, is essential for the law's complete implementation. The discussion also highlighted the pressing need for long-term care policies to address the country's growing ageing population.

Eximbank: Indonesia's Cocoa Exports Grow 36 Percent in 2025

Indonesia's cocoa export value surged 36 percent to US$3.5 billion in 2025, driven by higher global prices and strong international demand despite a slight drop in volume. Processed products like cocoa butter dominate shipments, with the United States and India emerging as top markets. The Indonesia Eximbank Institute sees a further US$1 billion in untapped export potential, particularly through high-value-added goods.

Expert: Healthcare Costs Can Disrupt Finances If Not Prepared For

A financial expert warns that unplanned healthcare costs can severely disrupt personal and family finances. She urges Indonesians, particularly the young, to treat health expenditure as a long-term financial priority rather than an unpredictable event. The advice coincides with the launch of a new integrated digital payment feature aimed at simplifying access to health services.

Social Affairs Ministry Invites Literacy Activists to 'Open House' at People's Schools

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs is inviting education activists and public figures to an open house in July and August to observe the progress of the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme. The initiative aims to showcase the transition of 93 schools to permanent facilities and highlight reported improvements in student discipline, confidence, and academic achievement. The programme is set to expand significantly, targeting 32,000 students this year and over 100,000 by 2027.

Grahadi Protest Disperses Peacefully, Students Vow Follow-Up Action

Thousands of students demonstrated peacefully outside the Grahadi State Building in Surabaya before dispersing after an unidentified group burned posters of President Prabowo Subianto. The protesters demanded the cessation of the Free Nutritious Meals programme and the Red and White Village Cooperatives, alongside the revocation of laws they claim enable militarism in civilian spheres. Organisers warned of further nationwide protests if the government fails to implement reforms.

Attorney General's Office seals BGN electric motorcycle warehouse in Bogor

Indonesian prosecutors have sealed a warehouse in Bogor containing electric motorcycles belonging to the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) as part of a corruption investigation. The case involves alleged price mark-ups in the procurement of goods for the free nutritious meal programme, with five suspects named including former BGN officials. The total value of the allegedly tainted procurements, including 21,801 electric motorcycles, exceeds IDR 1 trillion.

Trump Reportedly to Sack Defence Secretary Hegseth and CIA Director Over Opposition to Iran Peace Deal

US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering dismissing Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and CIA Director John Ratcliffe for opposing a memorandum of understanding aimed at achieving total peace with Iran. The MoU is scheduled to be signed in Switzerland on Friday, though Trump has cautioned the deal could still change. The reported internal rift highlights tensions within the administration over diplomatic engagement with Tehran.

DPR Commission XIII Grills Pigai Over Late Submission of Additional Budget Proposal

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XIII sharply questioned Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai for submitting a proposed Rp 492.9 billion budget increase only during the hearing. While the commission approved the portion for human rights promotion and enforcement, it rejected the allocation for management support and demanded the ministry prioritise substantive human rights functions.

Several GBK Areas to Be Temporarily Closed Tomorrow for Hotel Sultan Eviction

Access to several areas within the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) complex in Jakarta will be temporarily closed on Thursday, 18 June 2026, to facilitate the eviction of the former Hotel Sultan. The closures will affect specific gates, parking areas, and connecting roads, with alternative access routes provided for the public.

MSME Ministry: Business Registration Number Key to Accessing Facilities and Financing

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises has stressed that possessing a Business Registration Number (NIB) is essential for accessing government support programmes and financing. With only 16 million of an estimated 56 million MSMEs currently registered, the ministry is developing a digital platform to integrate services and incentivise registration. Officials also clarified that micro-enterprises with annual turnover up to Rp500 million are exempt from income tax.

NASA Reveals New Facts: Earth Does Not Actually Orbit the Sun

NASA has clarified that, technically, planets including Earth do not orbit the Sun directly. Instead, they orbit a common centre of mass called the barycentre, which is often located outside the Sun due to the gravitational influence of massive planets like Jupiter and Saturn. This nuanced understanding stems from Kepler's laws and the two-way nature of gravitational pull.

Minister Maman: Regional economic progress depends on MSME movement

Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Maman Abdurrahman stated that regional economic advancement hinges on the MSME sector, describing it as the backbone of the local economy. Speaking at a festival in Balikpapan, he emphasised that thriving MSMEs enable regions to grow independently without heavy reliance on the central government. The event is part of a national priority programme under President Prabowo Subianto aimed at boosting welfare and entrepreneurship.

New School Year More Prepared with BRI Multiguna Support

Bank BRI is promoting its BRI Multiguna unsecured loan facility as a financial solution for Indonesian families facing the dual expenses of holiday season and new school year preparations. The product targets salaried employees with BRI payroll, offering flexible tenors up to 15 years and a quick disbursement process. It aims to help parents manage costs for school registration, uniforms, and supplies without disrupting family holiday plans.

Metro Jaya Police Confirm Monas Protest Ends Safely and Orderly

Two groups of protesters totalling around 800 people demonstrated peacefully at Monas in Central Jakarta before dispersing. The police confirmed the event remained orderly and did not disrupt public activities, with one group demanding the prosecution of corruptors in the MBG programme and the other representing hotel workers. Authorities reported no protest activity at the MPR/DPR complex and urged the public to maintain order.

Forum Tempe Recommends Tempe as Future Innovation

The Indonesian Tempe Forum has proposed that tempe should evolve from a cultural heritage into a platform for future innovation, highlighting its functional food and health applications. The recommendation was made during National Tempe Day celebrations, alongside ongoing efforts to secure UNESCO intangible cultural heritage status for the food. Tempe's high-quality protein and economic potential are also seen as key to its global market expansion and national economic development.

KPK Chair in Intensive Communication with Nanik on MBG Programme Improvements

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is in close contact with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to push for systemic reforms in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. KPK Chair Setyo Budiyanto emphasised the need for transparency and broader stakeholder involvement. The anti-graft body is also coordinating with the Attorney General's Office, which is conducting a parallel investigation into the same programme.

Deputy Minister Targets Garlic Self-Sufficiency, Reveals Land and Seed Hurdles

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono has outlined President Prabowo's directive to achieve garlic self-sufficiency within three to four years, as over 90 per cent of the nation's supply is currently imported. Key challenges include securing 100,000 hectares of high-altitude land and developing locally adapted seed varieties. The government is exploring converting disused tea plantations in West Java and expanding cultivation in existing highland areas like Sembalun, Temanggung, and Humbang Hasundutan.

Sinar Mas Land Supports Educational Innovation with BERHATI Festival 2026 and e-Learning Platform Launch

Sinar Mas Land has held its third annual Sekolah BERHATI Festival in BSD City, showcasing student innovations and best practices from its school mentoring programme. The company also launched a free digital learning platform, 'Kontribusi Pendidikan', to expand access to educational resources for teachers, students, and the wider community. The initiative, part of Sinar Mas Land's CSR commitment, aims to strengthen character, health, and innovation in schools across Tangerang and Bogor.

ITB Expert Warns of Clean Water Crisis in Cimahi Due to Land Exploitation

An expert from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has raised alarms over a looming clean water crisis in Cimahi, West Java, driven by massive groundwater exploitation. The most vulnerable area, South Cimahi, is already experiencing water shortages, forcing residents to purchase water. Predictions indicate extreme and permanent drought conditions could strike by 2050 if extraction continues uncontrolled.

Thailand Appoints International Legal Experts to Resolve Maritime Dispute with Cambodia

Thailand has appointed two prominent international legal experts to represent the country in a UN-backed conciliation process aimed at resolving a long-standing maritime dispute with Cambodia in the Gulf of Thailand. The contested area is believed to hold significant oil and gas reserves, making it one of Southeast Asia's most economically important maritime boundary disagreements. The conciliation panel is expected to facilitate stalled negotiations and provide recommendations for a mutually beneficial resolution, particularly regarding resource development rights.

Government Strengthens Strategy to Maintain Food Production Amid Dry Season

The Indonesian government is reinforcing anticipatory measures to safeguard national food production during the 2026 dry season. Strategies include improving water infrastructure, providing drought-resistant seeds, and modernising agriculture, with the Agriculture Ministry expressing confidence in maintaining sustainable food self-sufficiency. Officials emphasised that current climate conditions are expected to be more manageable than the severe El Niño events of 2015 and 2023.

MPMRent Strengthens EV Fleet to Support Corporate Mobility

PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika Rent (MPMRent) has partnered with Wuling Motors to add 50 electric vehicles to its fleet, aiming to meet growing corporate demand for sustainable transport solutions. The move aligns with the increasing adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles among its clients. Both companies view this as the start of a long-term strategic partnership to advance green mobility in Indonesia.

Gift Card Fraud Threatens Financial Leakage Amid Digital Economic Growth

The rapid expansion of Indonesia's digital payment and e-commerce sectors is being undermined by increasingly sophisticated gift card fraud, which often goes undetected by standard security systems. Cybersecurity firm Zentara Technologies highlighted the issue at a conference in Copenhagen, warning that fraudsters are now exploiting the entire lifecycle of stored-value products rather than hacking systems. With Indonesia's gift card market projected to reach US$3.68 billion by 2030, these schemes pose a significant and silent threat to retailers, banks, and loyalty platforms.

Deputy Minister Calls for AI Ethics to Be Embedded from the Design Stage

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Nezar Patria, has urged developers to adopt an 'ethics by design' approach for artificial intelligence, embedding principles like transparency and accountability from the outset. He highlighted a global shift from voluntary ethical principles to requiring tangible proof of their implementation, citing a Canadian simulation where an AI system mishandled passenger rebooking. Patria advocated for a 'shifting left' strategy to ensure governance and risk mitigation are integrated during the initial design phase.

Strait of Hormuz Begins to Ease: Three Iranian Oil Tankers Leave Blockade Area

Three Iranian oil tankers have departed the previously blockaded Strait of Hormuz, marking the first crude exports from Iran in two months. The movement signals a diplomatic thaw ahead of a scheduled US-Iran memorandum of understanding signing in Switzerland on 19 June. The agreement is expected to address the strait's reopening, sanctions relief, and Iran's nuclear programme.

US-Iran Deal Rocks Israel, Netanyahu Suddenly on the Brink

A unilateral US move to negotiate an end to the war with Iran has triggered a political crisis in Israel, leaving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing intense domestic backlash. The draft peace agreement, released without Israeli input, has drawn sharp criticism from across the political spectrum, with opponents accusing Netanyahu of strategic failure. Analysts suggest the deal leaves Iran in a stronger regional position, casting doubt on Netanyahu's political legacy.

Rail-Based SRG Warehouse Ready to Operate, Logistics Costs Expected to Fall

A rail-integrated Warehouse Receipt System (SRG) facility has been soft-launched at Gedebage Station in Bandung, aiming to streamline commodity distribution and reduce logistics costs. The warehouse, a collaboration between state-owned enterprises and private logistics, will initially store West Java's Java Preanger coffee for domestic and export markets. Officials expect the rail-linked storage model to strengthen supply chains and boost the competitiveness of Indonesian commodities.

Palace Offers Condolences for Palu Earthquake Victims

The Indonesian State Palace has expressed its condolences following a 6.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Central Sulawesi, resulting in one confirmed death in Sigi Regency. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed coordination with the provincial governor for optimal handling of the aftermath and urged residents to remain vigilant for aftershocks.

School Holiday Travel: 5.46 Million Passengers Projected to Flood InJourney Airports

Indonesia's state-owned airport operator InJourney Airports projects 5.46 million passengers will travel through its 37 airports during the June-July 2026 school holiday period, a 9.72% increase from normal days. The surge is expected to boost economic activity, tourism, and consumption. The company has prepared operational measures and family-oriented festive programmes to manage the increased traffic.

Father in Lombok Burns Child's Diploma After Early Marriage Goes Viral

A video of a father in West Lombok burning his daughter's primary school diploma and uniform has gone viral, sparking discussion about child marriage. The act was a protest after his daughter, still in junior secondary school, was married off following a local custom because she returned home late with her boyfriend. The village head confirmed the incident, stating it was an expression of parental disappointment and that efforts to prevent the marriage had failed.

West Bandung Regency Offers Tax Penalty Amnesty, Here Are the Eligible Taxes and Schedule

The West Bandung Regency government is offering a tax penalty amnesty programme from 9 June to 31 August 2026, waiving administrative sanctions on several local taxes. The initiative, launched as part of the region's 19th anniversary, aims to ease the burden on taxpayers while boosting compliance and locally generated revenue (PAD).

ITB Expert: Cimahi Threatened by Clean Water Crisis Due to Land Exploitation

An expert from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has warned that Cimahi faces a severe clean water crisis driven by massive groundwater exploitation and prolonged dry seasons. The southern district of Cimahi is already experiencing routine water shortages, forcing residents to purchase water. Officials are preparing emergency supply schemes as peak drought conditions are expected in August.

Indonesia bolsters tourism safety with 25,344 certified tour guides

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is intensifying safety measures at tourist destinations following a rise in search and rescue cases and casualties. The ministry has certified 25,344 tour guides and is prioritising competency-based training in occupational safety and health, particularly in high-risk locations. The initiative aims to achieve zero accidents and build full trust in Indonesian tourism.

US-Iran Draft Deal Includes Rp5,300 Trillion Rehabilitation Fund

A draft agreement between the United States and Iran outlines 14 key points, including a massive Rp5,300 trillion fund for Iran's economic rehabilitation. The proposed memorandum of understanding, expected to be signed in Switzerland, aims to end regional conflicts and curb Tehran's nuclear programme. The deal's success hinges on halting military activities in Lebanon and securing vital international shipping lanes.

Government Distributes Rp967.5 Billion in Stimulus Aid for Sumatra Recovery

The Indonesian government has disbursed Rp967.5 billion in stimulus aid to support the socio-economic recovery of flash flood and landslide survivors in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. The assistance targets over 82,000 beneficiaries across 10 affected districts and cities, providing housing support, living allowances, and communal economic strengthening programmes. The Ministry of Social Affairs confirmed the distribution is based on validated local government data and will be followed by ongoing monitoring to ensure productive use of the funds.

Gibran reaffirms governance reforms for MBG and KDMP programs

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has reiterated the government's commitment to improving the governance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and Red-and-White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) programmes to ensure efficient use of public funds and prevent corruption. The reforms include barring National Nutrition Agency officials from owning meal supply units to avoid conflicts of interest, while the Cooperatives Minister stated that around 40,000 village cooperatives could be operational by 2026 based on feasibility studies. These measures aim to bolster public trust, strengthen fiscal capacity, and enhance market confidence in the national economy.

Government Prepares Transport Fare Stimulus for Second Half of 2026

The Indonesian government has announced a stimulus package aimed at boosting economic activity during the second half of 2026, targeting the school holiday period and the Christmas and New Year season. The package includes discounts on land and sea transport, port fees, and a 100% VAT exemption on domestic economy-class flight tickets. This move coincides with reported growth in foreign tourist arrivals and average spending per visit in early 2026.

Constitutional Court Rejects Challenge to KPU-Bawaslu Age Limits, Deems Requirement Rational

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has dismissed a judicial review petition against the minimum age requirements for election organisers KPU and Bawaslu. The court ruled that the age limit is rationally connected to the maturity, competence, and integrity needed for the roles. It emphasised that the provision does not deny citizens' rights but merely defers their exercise until the legal age is met.

KPK Requests Additional Rp726 Billion Budget for 2027, Sahroni Suggests Rp5 Trillion

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has proposed a budget increase of Rp762.30 billion for 2027, citing a 22 per cent cut in its indicative ceiling. During a parliamentary hearing, a senior lawmaker urged the KPK to request a much larger sum of Rp5 trillion, referencing President Prabowo Subianto's pledge of support for anti-corruption efforts. The KPK chairman, however, insisted the proposed figure was based on carefully calculated operational needs.

US-Iran Peace: Israel Left Behind, Netanyahu's Grand Dream at Risk of Collapse

A looming peace deal between the United States and Iran threatens to leave Israel without strategic gains, as key issues like Tehran's nuclear programme and ballistic missiles remain unresolved. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces domestic pressure after being sidelined in negotiations that will determine the war's final outcome. The divergence in goals between Washington and Tel Aviv has become stark, with President Trump openly expressing frustration with the Israeli leader.

DPR Commission IX: Success of Domestic Worker Protection Law Depends on Derivative Regulations and Government Synergy

The newly passed Domestic Worker Protection Law (UU PPRT) is hailed as a milestone for social justice and the care economy in Indonesia. Lawmakers stress that its effective implementation hinges on the swift drafting of clear derivative regulations and strong inter-ministerial coordination. Ensuring accessible complaint channels and gender equality principles are also deemed critical to safeguarding millions of domestic workers.

Yogyakarta to host 17th ASEAN-China air services meeting

Indonesia will host the 17th ASEAN-China air services cooperation forum in Yogyakarta in July 2026, aiming to promote Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) and boost tourism. The meeting, which rotates annually, is expected to draw 200 participants from 22 air transport companies and will discuss strengthening air connectivity. Officials hope the event will attract greater interest from the Chinese market and open opportunities for direct flights from mainland China to Yogyakarta.

Central Java Deputy Governor Says Student Protest Demands Fall Under Central Government Authority

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin explained the provincial government's absence from recent student protests, stating that the demonstrators' demands are the responsibility of the central government. He claimed the provincial administration still collects student aspirations and will attempt to convey them to Jakarta. Yasin also noted that the central government has already opened dialogue with student groups and responded to previous demonstrations.