Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

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KPK Announces Anti-Corruption Campaign Through Musical Drama 'Sidik'

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is launching an anti-corruption campaign via a musical drama titled 'Sidik', scheduled for early December at Taman Ismail Marzuki. The production, created in collaboration with Da Lopez Entertainment, will feature six performances over three days, including sessions for invited anti-corruption activists and paid public shows. The musical's plot draws inspiration from the lives of KPK investigators and real corruption cases handled by the agency.

Undip's Artificial Coral Reef Innovation from Waste Enters Lab2Market 2026

A research team from Diponegoro University has developed an artificial coral reef technology using industrial waste, which has been selected for the national Lab2Market 2026 programme. The innovation aims to rehabilitate coastal ecosystems and boost fisheries productivity. The programme will provide support for market validation, business modelling, and commercialisation strategy.

Armed Group Attacks Niger Airport, 11 Soldiers Killed

An armed assault on Niger's main international airport in Niamey resulted in the deaths of 11 soldiers and two civilians, with security forces killing 22 attackers. The early morning attack, the second on the facility in less than five months, prompted a large-scale military sweep of surrounding neighbourhoods. Authorities stated the airport remains secure and operational.

Economist: BI Rate Hike Aims to Strengthen Rupiah and Curb Imported Inflation

Bank Indonesia has raised its benchmark interest rate for the third consecutive time to 5.75 per cent in June 2026, aiming to bolster the rupiah and mitigate imported inflation amid global financial uncertainty. The move comes as the rupiah hovers around Rp17,736 per US dollar and annual inflation ticks up to 3.08 per cent. The central bank is also tightening foreign exchange purchase thresholds and enhancing transparency to support lending and deepen financial markets.

PP Persis Appreciates Smooth 2026 Hajj with Improved Services

The central board of Persatuan Islam (PP Persis) has commended the successful organisation of the 1447 H/2026 M Hajj pilgrimage, highlighting significant improvements in services. Key achievements include smoother mobilisation of pilgrims, particularly in the Armuzna area, and more orderly management of the Dam (hadyu) sacrificial rites.

AGO Seals Two Warehouses in MBG Case, Secures 17,600 Electric Motorcycles

The Attorney General's Office has sealed two warehouses in Sentul and Cikarang containing 17,600 electric motorcycles procured for the Free Nutritious Meal programme. The motorcycles have been secured to monitor their movement, not seized, as they have yet to be distributed to service units. The action is part of an ongoing corruption investigation into the programme's governance, which has already seen six suspects named, including former heads of the National Nutrition Agency.

BTN and Rumah123 Strengthen Digital Property Ecosystem with Integrated Home Ownership Access

State-owned Bank BTN and property portal Rumah123 have deepened their strategic partnership to offer an integrated digital home-buying journey. The collaboration connects property search with mortgage financing on a single platform, targeting the 63.5% of home seekers who are Gen Z and Millennials. The move reflects a broader shift in consumer behaviour, with BTN noting that 95.3% of its mortgage debtors now come from these younger demographics.

MBG Corruption Probe: Sony Sonjaya Reveals NSD Changed SPPG Foundation Three Times

Former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, has told investigators that an individual identified as NSD repeatedly changed the foundation managing free meal programme (MBG) service points without proper procedure. The testimony emerged during questioning over alleged corruption in the MBG scheme, with locations in Madiun, Tapos, and Bogor mentioned. Sonjaya's lawyer stressed his client was merely recounting facts known to him during his tenure.

AGO Seizes Alphard from Asep Yusuf, Close Associate of Sony Sonjaya

The Attorney General's Office has seized a Toyota Alphard belonging to Asep Yusuf Somantri, a close associate of former BGN deputy head Sony Sonjaya, in connection with the alleged corruption in the free nutritious meal programme. The luxury vehicle was confiscated last week but only brought to the AGO building today. Asep Yusuf is one of six suspects named in the case involving mismanagement of the government's flagship programme.

AGO Still Studying Justice Collaborator Request from Former BGN Deputy Sony Sonjaya

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) is evaluating the justice collaborator application submitted by Sony Sonjaya, a former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) implicated in the free nutritious meal programme governance case. Investigators are verifying his testimony, which has expanded to implicate 41 individuals in the allocation of kitchen service points and revealed a Rp 300 billion contract for CCTV and fingerprint devices. The AGO stated it respects Sonjaya's initiative to assist in uncovering the case but must confirm his statements against other evidence before deciding on his JC status.

Indonesia's Digital Economy Dominance in ASEAN Offers SMEs a Pathway to Upgrade

Indonesia's position as the largest digital economy in Southeast Asia presents a significant opportunity for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to scale up. With an estimated value of USD 100 billion and over 235 million internet users, the country's digital landscape offers a vast domestic market. Officials emphasise that digital transformation can boost operational efficiency and enable MSMEs to compete globally.

Lebanon Needs Investment, Not Humanitarian Aid, Says President Aoun

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has stated his country requires investment rather than humanitarian assistance to drive recovery and reconstruction. He emphasised that economic, financial, administrative, and judicial reforms are internal necessities, not external conditions, and that restoring both international and citizen trust is crucial for attracting investment.

Attorney General's Office Probes Sony Sonjaya's Justice Collaborator Request in BGN Corruption Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office is examining a justice collaborator application from former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, as part of an investigation into alleged corruption in the free meal programme. Investigators are verifying his claims about other individuals requesting operational points for the programme's distribution. The outcome will determine whether his cooperation status is granted, potentially exposing a wider network of graft in the social welfare scheme.

ASDP Strengthens Riau Islands Maritime Gateway with Tanjung Uban Port Development

State-owned ferry operator ASDP has commenced a major expansion of Tanjung Uban Port in Bintan, Kepulauan Riau, to bolster inter-island connectivity and logistics. The project includes constructing a new 119.48-metre berth and upgrading existing facilities to accommodate larger vessels. The development is part of ASDP's 'We Bridge the Nation' vision and is expected to be operational by the end of 2026.

Oelpuah Solar Power Plant with 5 MWp Capacity Strengthens Clean Energy Supply in NTT

The Oelpuah Solar Power Plant (PLTS) in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, has commenced operations with a 5 MWp capacity, bolstering the region's renewable energy mix. Managed by an Independent Power Producer, the facility sells its entire output to state utility PLN for distribution via the local grid. The plant leverages the area's abundant solar radiation, though its peak output is naturally limited to daylight hours due to its on-grid, battery-free design.

Glory Harimas Named Suspect in MBG Corruption Case for Selling SPPG Points to Partners at Rp 100 Million Each

Glory Harimas Sihombing, chair of the Indonesia Food Security Review foundation, has been named a new suspect in the alleged corruption of the free nutritious meals programme. He is accused of selling Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) service points at prices up to Rp 100 million each at the request of former National Nutrition Agency head Dadan Hindayana. Prosecutors are still calculating the total funds allegedly transferred periodically from Glory to Dadan since 2025.

BPS Deploys 4,082 Field Officers for Economic Census in Yogyakarta

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has deployed 4,082 enumerators in the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) for the 2026 Economic Census, running from 15 June to 31 August. The census aims to provide reliable data on economic structures, business characteristics, and the digital economy, with officials highlighting Yogyakarta's high human development index and the role of education in its economy. The data collected will serve as a foundation for national and regional development policies, particularly for MSMEs, investment, and employment.

Ahead of School Holidays, Jasa Marga Steps Up Toll Road Maintenance on Key Congested Routes

PT Jasa Marga is intensifying maintenance and preventive repairs on major toll roads, including the Jakarta-Cikampek and Cipularang routes, ahead of the expected surge in traffic during the upcoming school holiday period. The state-owned operator is deploying 24-hour patrols and advanced scanning technology to ensure road quality and safety. Repairs are targeted for completion within 48 hours of detection to minimise disruption for travellers.

Weightlifting should focus on strengthening all muscles, doctor advises

An orthopaedic specialist from the University of Indonesia Hospital advises that weightlifting routines should target the entire body to maintain muscular balance and prevent pain. He recommends beginners seek professional guidance, start with low intensity, and combine exercise with proper nutrition to optimise metabolic and structural strengthening.

AGO: Sony Sonjaya Examination to Deepen Justice Collaborator Request

The Attorney General's Office is examining former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, to verify the information in his justice collaborator application related to the alleged corruption in the free nutritious meal programme. Investigators are also probing names suspected of demanding quotas for Nutrition Service Fulfilment Units. The examination lasted approximately nine hours as part of a case that has ensnared five suspects, including the former BGN chief.

Mount Rinjani Guides to Be Required to Carry Access Cards

Starting April 2027, all guides and porters on Mount Rinjani in Lombok will be required to hold an official access card. The regulation aims to ensure all service providers are registered and meet professional standards for safety, cleanliness, and ecosystem protection. The cards will be valid for one year and must be renewed periodically.

PLN reshuffles board of directors, introduces deputy CEO position

State electricity firm PLN has overhauled its board of directors, creating a new Deputy President Director role as part of efforts to strengthen corporate governance and navigate a dynamic energy sector. The shareholders' meeting on Thursday appointed Yusuf Didi Setiarto to the newly established position, while Darmawan Prasodjo remains President Director. The reshuffle is intended to support PLN's transformation and national energy development targets.

Agriculture Minister Asks BGN to Serve Chicken and Egg Meals Three Times a Week in Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister has urged the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to increase the frequency of chicken and egg menus in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to three times per week. The move aims to absorb surplus production and stabilise falling prices at the farm level, while simultaneously improving public nutrition. The BGN has reportedly agreed to the proposal, which is expected to support both market stability and farmer welfare.

PLN Shareholders Meeting Reshuffles Board of Directors, Here's the New Lineup

PT PLN (Persero) held its 2026 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, resulting in a reshuffle of its Board of Directors. The restructuring includes the creation of a new Deputy CEO position, filled by Yusuf Didi Setiarto, while Darmawan Prasodjo remains as CEO. The changes aim to strengthen corporate governance and support the national energy transition agenda.

KPK and OJK Renew MoU to Address Evolving Corruption Cases

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) have agreed to update their memorandum of understanding to better tackle modern corruption. The revised agreement will focus on enhancing KPK's capacity to trace assets involving digital instruments like cryptocurrency. The collaboration also aims to strengthen data integration and expand cooperation into areas such as parallel investigations in the banking sector.

Head of Indonesia Food Security Review Foundation Named New Suspect in Free Nutritious Meal Corruption

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, head of the Indonesia Food Security Review Foundation, as a new suspect in a corruption case involving the Free Nutritious Meal programme. Investigators allege he colluded with former officials of the National Nutrition Agency to illegally secure and sell meal kitchen sites to unqualified partners. The case involves the mismanagement of a state budget totalling hundreds of trillions of rupiah for the 2025-2026 period.

Food Security Becomes Key Agenda at Senkom Mitra Polri Leadership Meeting

The Sentra Komunikasi (Senkom) Mitra Polri organisation has pledged to support the national food security programme by developing maize cultivation across various regions. The group's chairman emphasised that food security is integral to national resilience, contributing to social stability and reducing potential conflicts. Senkom plans to leverage its nationwide network down to the village level to implement concrete steps in support of the initiative.

BKI Wins Indonesia Logistic Innovation Award 2026

State-owned classification bureau PT Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI) has received the Indonesia Logistic Innovation Award 2026 for its Maritime Cloud Platform. The award, presented at the Industry Synergy and Innovation Forum in Jakarta, recognises BKI's efforts in driving digital transformation within the maritime and logistics sectors. The platform integrates various maritime services into a single digital ecosystem to improve efficiency and accessibility.

South Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office Investigates Education Officials in Digital Library Corruption Case

Investigators are probing the involvement of South Sulawesi Education Agency officials in an alleged corruption case concerning a Digital Library procurement project. The investigation, which has been ongoing for a year, was escalated after irregularities were found in the project worth an estimated Rp19 billion. The probe may also extend to provincial legislators regarding the project's budget planning.

Glory Harimas Allegedly Made Regular Payments to Dadan from SPPG Point Sales

Glory Harimas, a suspect in the free nutritious meal programme corruption case, is alleged to have made periodic payments to former National Nutrition Agency head Dadan Hindayana. The funds reportedly originated from the sale of Satuan Pelaksana Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) points. Investigators are still calculating the total amount transferred since 2025.

Computational Thinking Should Be Applied in Early Childhood Education in Indonesia

Experts advocate for integrating computational thinking into Indonesia's early childhood education (PAUD) to foster logical problem-solving skills. They highlight the crucial role of teacher training and welfare, alongside calls for greater government and state-owned enterprise support to optimise the sector's strategic potential.

BTN and Rumah123 Synergise Home Search and Mortgage Services

State-owned bank BTN has partnered with property marketplace Rumah123 to integrate home search and mortgage financing into a single digital ecosystem. The collaboration targets the 63.5 per cent of home seekers who are Gen Z and Millennials, aiming to streamline the path to homeownership. BTN's mortgage debtors are already 95.3 per cent from these younger generations, underscoring the shift towards digital housing finance.

PLN Shareholders Meeting Confirms Darmawan Prasodjo Remains at the Helm

PT PLN (Persero)'s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders has confirmed Darmawan Prasodjo as President Director and introduced a new Deputy President Director role. The reshuffle, which includes a 12-member board, aims to strengthen corporate governance and support the state electricity firm's ongoing transformation amid a dynamic energy sector.

Mataram Selected for Digital Social Aid Trial, Prabowo to Inspect

Mataram has been chosen as one of 42 pilot locations for a national digital social assistance programme aimed at improving targeting accuracy. The initiative will utilise cross-sector data from eight ministries and offers both self-registration via an app and assistance from field agents. President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to review the trials in early July 2026, with a nationwide rollout planned for October.

Indonesia and Seven Arab Nations Condemn Israeli Settler Attacks on Palestinians

Indonesia, alongside seven Arab and Muslim-majority nations, has issued a joint statement strongly condemning escalating violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank. The foreign ministers specifically denounced recent attacks on mosques as serious violations of international law and holy sites. They called on the international community to compel Israel to halt the dangerous escalation and reaffirmed unwavering support for Palestinian national rights and a two-state solution.

Pharmacy Retailers Show Resilience Amid Rupiah Weakness

Despite a sluggish pharmaceutical industry due to the weakening rupiah and global geopolitical tensions, Indonesian pharmacy retail chain VIVA Apotek reported a 35% sales increase at the BeautyFest Asia 2026 event. The company's president director highlighted this growth as a sign of strong consumer enthusiasm for health and beauty products, reinforcing its position in the domestic market.

Former Employee Burgles Boss's Home Over Low Pay, Steals Rp 3 Billion

A former employee in Serang, Banten, orchestrated the theft of approximately Rp 3 billion from his ex-employer's home, motivated by resentment over his low salary. Police arrested the main suspect and two accomplices two weeks after the burglary, recovering over Rp 1.1 billion in cash and several vehicles purchased with the stolen money.

Beijing Backs Indonesia's Yuan-Denominated Bond Issuance: Purbaya

Indonesia has secured strong backing from Chinese authorities for its planned debut issuance of Panda Bonds, aimed at diversifying funding sources for national development. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa reported that the People's Bank of China signalled willingness to expedite regulatory approvals once formal documents are submitted. The initiative reflects growing economic ties and confidence in Indonesia's economy, while aligning with a broader strategy to reduce reliance on a single currency and engage multiple international partners.

AGO Reveals Private Sector Link to Dadan in Free Nutritious Meals Case

The Attorney General's Office has disclosed the involvement of a private individual, identified as GHS, in the alleged corruption case surrounding the Free Nutritious Meals programme. GHS is accused of receiving unlawful access from former National Nutrition Agency head Dadan Hindayana to secure kitchen sites, which were then sold to other parties. In return, GHS allegedly made periodic cash payments in foreign and local currency to Dadan.

Hajj Ministry assists family of deceased pilgrim with insurance claim in Pamekasan

The Office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Pamekasan, East Java, is providing administrative support to the family of a pilgrim who died in the Holy Land. The assistance covers the procedures for filing claims and completing the required documents to secure the entitled compensation. The deceased, Muhammad Muntaha, passed away on 9 June 2026 after completing all Hajj rituals.

Gus Lilur: 35th NU Congress a Momentum for Organisational Purification

Young Nahdlatul Ulama figure Gus Lilur has called for the 35th NU Congress to be viewed as a moment for organisational purification rather than a power struggle. He stressed that as a co-founder of the republic, NU bears a moral responsibility to safeguard national unity amid global geopolitical dynamics and domestic social vulnerabilities. The choice of leadership at the congress, he warned, will determine whether NU remains on the path of the ulama or is swept away by currents of political power.

Kodim 0723/Klaten Holds Corn Harvest to Support National Food Self-Sufficiency

The Klaten Military District Command (Kodim 0723/Klaten) has harvested approximately two tonnes of R7 corn from a 3,200-square-metre plot in Karanganom, demonstrating the Indonesian Army's commitment to the government's food security programme. The initiative serves as a practical model for local communities to optimise land use and boost agricultural output. The harvest is part of broader territorial development duties aimed at stabilising the economy and ensuring food availability.

Minat Investor pada Obligasi Dolar Danantara Jadi Sinyal Kepercayaan Global

Penerbitan obligasi internasional perdana Danantara senilai US$1,5 miliar mendapat sambutan luar biasa dengan permintaan puncak mencapai US$4,6 miliar, menandakan kepercayaan pasar global terhadap kredibilitas pengelolaan investasi Indonesia. Peringkat investment grade yang dimiliki Danantara menjadi faktor kunci yang menarik minat investor institusional dari Amerika Serikat, Eropa, dan Timur Tengah. Keberhasilan ini dinilai sebagai mandat untuk mengelola dana secara disiplin dan transparan guna mendanai sektor strategis yang memberikan dampak ekonomi nyata.

Welcoming 80th Bhayangkara Day, Brebes Police Hold Blood Donation Drive with TNI and Community

The Brebes Resort Police held a blood donation drive to mark the 80th Bhayangkara Day, collecting 86 bags of blood. The event demonstrated synergy between the police, military, and community organisations. The donated blood will be distributed through the Indonesian Red Cross to assist patients in need.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Reactivates Forest Fire Desk Ahead of El Niño

The Indonesian government has reactivated its Forest and Land Fire (Karhutla) Coordination Desk to strengthen inter-agency coordination in anticipation of the El Niño phenomenon expected in 2026 and 2027. The move aims to mitigate heightened fire risks during the upcoming dry season, particularly in six identified high-risk provinces. The desk was previously disbanded in 2025 after fire conditions were deemed under control.

Brimob Sterilises Venues and Access Routes Ahead of National Pesparawi

The Papua Barat Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) has conducted security sweeps and inspections of competition venues and access routes in Manokwari ahead of the 2026 National Church Choir Festival (Pesparawi Nasional XIV). The checks are a preventative measure to ensure all locations are safe and ready for the national event, which will draw participants from across Indonesia. Police report that all inspected sites are currently secure and conducive, with no significant threats identified.

After Hotel Sultan Execution, Otto Hasibuan's Senayan Golf Course Comes Under Scrutiny

Following the government's repossession of the Hotel Sultan land, calls are mounting for authorities to evaluate the status of the Senayan Avenue by Ottolima golf course, linked to Deputy Minister Otto Hasibuan. A political analyst suggests the prime state-owned land could be repurposed as a green space, office complex, or housing to better serve public interests. The government has reiterated its commitment to maximising state assets for the prosperity of the Indonesian people.

National Nutrition Agency Plans to Recruit Seven Advisory Board Members, Including Nutrition and Public Health Experts

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) intends to appoint seven experts in nutrition and public health to its Advisory Board. The board, already mandated by presidential regulation, will provide recommendations to guide the agency's policies and the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The positions remain vacant but are expected to be filled soon to strengthen the agency's governance.

Bogor Diskominfo educates students on digital literacy through OB Van Teman FM

The Bogor Regency Communication and Informatics Office (Diskominfo) has launched an outreach programme to boost digital literacy and broadcasting awareness among students. The initiative, using the OB Van Teman FM Goes to School programme, aims to provide hands-on learning about media production and the enduring relevance of radio. Officials hope the interactive sessions will foster a generation that is intelligent, creative, and responsible in using digital technology.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Strengthens Sexual Violence Prevention Task Force in Islamic Boarding Schools

The Ministry of Religious Affairs is reinforcing its Sexual Violence Prevention Task Force to create safer Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) through comprehensive institutional reform. Minister Nasaruddin Umar stressed that legal measures alone are insufficient, advocating for improved governance, clearer definitions of pesantren elements, and addressing power dynamics. The initiative includes a WhatsApp-based reporting channel, Telepontren, to dismantle the culture of silence and ensure swift state response.

Global Community Day Boosts Financial Literacy for Teenagers with Disabilities

Citi Indonesia and YCAB Foundation concluded the Global Community Day 2026 with an inclusive financial literacy workshop for teenagers with physical disabilities in Jakarta. The programme used interactive case studies and VR games to address the lack of accessible financial education. Officials highlighted the initiative's role in fostering economic independence and participation among youth facing mobility challenges.

President Prabowo's Economic Directives at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto convened directors and commissioners of state-owned banks (Himbara) at the Presidential Palace to outline Indonesia's economic prospects and strategic direction for the coming years. The meeting underscored the critical role of Himbara as the primary engine of the national economy. Key ministers, including Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani and Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto, attended the briefing.

AGO Reveals Central Role of Glory Harimas in Free Nutritious Meal Corruption Case

The Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, a private sector figure, as a suspect in the alleged corruption of the Free Nutritious Meal programme. He is accused of sourcing partners, selling meal kitchen locations, and channelling funds to the former head of the National Nutrition Agency. This brings the total number of suspects in the case to six.

Prabowo Urges State Banks to Lower Loan Rates for MSMEs

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed Indonesia's state-owned banks to ensure that micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) receive lower lending rates than large corporations. He emphasised the strategic role of the Himbara banks, whose combined market capitalisation reaches Rp1,100 trillion, in driving national economic growth and supporting key government programmes like food security.

55 Percent of Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Have Returned Home

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reports that 55 percent of Indonesian pilgrims, totalling 114,310 individuals, have safely returned home as of the 17th day of the repatriation phase. Officials praised the smooth operation, attributing its success to inter-agency coordination and the high level of discipline shown by pilgrims, particularly in adhering to baggage rules. The ministry also reminded returning pilgrims to maintain their health and confirmed that Zamzam water will be distributed upon arrival in Indonesia.

Solo City Government and Prosecutor's Office Strengthen Anti-Corruption Integrity for Sub-District and Village Heads

The Solo city administration, in collaboration with the local prosecutor's office, held an anti-corruption dissemination event for all sub-district and village heads. The initiative aims to reinforce integrity in regional financial governance and ensure compliance with regulations. Officials stressed the importance of moving beyond the 'Anti-Corruption City' label to substantively embed anti-corruption practices at the grassroots level.

Prabowo Instructs State Banks to Prioritise Public Welfare and SMEs Over Profit

President Prabowo Subianto has directed Indonesia's state-owned banks (Himbara) to shift their focus beyond profit maximisation and ensure their presence benefits the wider community, particularly small and medium enterprises. The instruction was delivered during a strategic meeting with the directors and commissioners of major state banks, including BRI, Mandiri, BNI, BTN, and BSI. Minister Rosan Roeslani noted the President emphasised converting the banks' combined market capitalisation of Rp1,100 trillion into tangible welfare improvements and equitable economic opportunities.

Unair Campus to Fully Investigate Obscene Video in Lecture Hall, Perpetrators and Distributors to Be Probed

Universitas Airlangga (Unair) has confirmed an investigation into a viral video allegedly showing two students engaging in obscene acts in a campus lecture hall. The university's ethics commission is currently examining the chronology of the incident, which reportedly occurred on 12 June 2026. Officials have urged the public to respect the ongoing process, emphasising the institution's commitment to its 'Excellence Morality' vision.

Economist Says B50 Mandate Will Strengthen Trade Balance and Reduce Import Dependency

Indonesia's mandatory B50 biodiesel programme is expected to significantly cut diesel imports, potentially saving Rp157 trillion in foreign exchange and supporting the rupiah. Economists and energy experts highlight the policy's benefits for trade balance, energy security, and emission reductions, while cautioning against deforestation risks from increased palm oil demand.

Two defendants in 58 kg methamphetamine case in Jambi face life imprisonment

Prosecutors in Jambi have demanded life sentences for two men accused of possessing over 58 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine. The defendants were found guilty of violating Indonesia's narcotics law, with the prosecution citing the government's anti-drug programme and the potential harm to the younger generation as aggravating factors. The defence team has indicated it will submit a written plea at the next hearing.

Central Jakarta Court Upholds Legality of PPP's Acting Maluku DPW Appointment

The Central Jakarta District Court has affirmed the legality of the United Development Party's (PPP) appointment of an acting regional executive board for Maluku. The ruling rejected a challenge to the validity of the appointment letter signed by the party chairman and deputy secretary-general. The decision reinforces the legal basis for the party's internal organisational policies ahead of the 2029 elections.

Papua Barat Guarantees Food Safety for National Pesparawi Contingents

The Papua Barat provincial government is implementing a food safety monitoring system for the National Ecclesiastical Choir Festival (Pesparawi) XIV in June 2026. Health authorities, alongside the BPOM, military, and police, will conduct daily laboratory tests on food samples to ensure hygiene standards. The administration is also intensifying malaria and dengue prevention measures at all non-hotel accommodations used by participants.

Tradi-Pop: An Effort to Revive Traditional Dance Amidst Modern Entertainment Trends

Young dancer Bathara Saverigadi introduces 'Tradi-Pop', a concept blending traditional Indonesian dance with modern entertainment aesthetics to engage Generation Z. The initiative aims to preserve cultural heritage by making it dynamic and accessible, rather than diluting its core values. The approach is being practically applied through the Ksatria Fest 3.0, a national competition designed to cultivate new dance idols who can bridge tradition and popular culture.

Minister: Sekolah Rakyat a Solution for Out-of-School Children

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifatul Choiri Fauzi has stated that the newly established Sekolah Rakyat (People's Schools) are a key government initiative to fulfil the educational rights of out-of-school children. During a visit to the integrated school in Tasikmalaya, she emphasised that beyond providing facilities, the programme's success hinges on implementing proper caregiving patterns for students from diverse social backgrounds. The initiative is part of a broader national effort to prepare a quality generation for Indonesia's Golden Year 2045.

Understanding the Ahwa System Used in the Election of NU's Rais Aam

The Ahlul Halli wal 'Aqdi (AHWA) system is a distinctive mechanism for electing the Rais Aam of Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation. Rooted in Islamic tradition, it empowers a council of senior scholars to deliberate and make binding decisions on leadership. The system traces its origins to the era of the Prophet's companions, notably the selection of Caliph Uthman bin Affan.

Combating Disinformation Can No Longer Be Solely the User's Burden

Indonesian officials and academics argue that the responsibility for tackling AI-driven disinformation must shift from individual users to digital platforms and government regulation. They emphasise that platforms' algorithms create echo chambers and monetise content, making stronger legal accountability and improved content moderation essential. Experts also call for a greater focus on information literacy, not just digital skills, to help the public critically evaluate online content.

Airlangga Urges State Banks Not to Rush Raising Lending Rates After BI Rate Hike

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has asked state-owned banks (Himbara) to refrain from immediately increasing lending rates following Bank Indonesia's decision to raise its benchmark rate to 5.75%. The statement came after President Prabowo Subianto summoned directors and commissioners of the state banks to the State Palace. Airlangga acknowledged the transmission effect of the BI rate hike but emphasised the need to keep credit flowing.

Palm oil FFB prices rise after tighter government oversight

Fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices for Indonesian palm oil farmers have begun to recover following direct intervention by the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Police Food Task Force. The number of companies purchasing below market prices has halved from 270 to around 130 after intensive meetings with industry players. The government has pledged continued monitoring to sustain the price recovery and protect the livelihoods of an estimated 15 million smallholders.

DDoS Threats Surge Sharply, Business Sector Urged to Strengthen Cybersecurity Investment

Indonesia experienced a 62% surge in Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks in the first quarter of 2026, with over 280,000 incidents mitigated. The attacks are predominantly financially motivated, with 70% linked to monetary gain and 41% involving ransom demands, exceeding global averages. Experts warn that increasingly complex and persistent multi-vector attacks necessitate urgent investment in robust cybersecurity infrastructure to ensure business continuity.

Prabowo urges state banks not to chase profit alone but to serve the people

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed Indonesia's state-owned banks to prioritise public service over profit maximisation. The directive, delivered to the Himbara banking group, calls for greater financial inclusion and equitable access for MSMEs, commercial, and corporate sectors. The combined market capitalisation of the five state banks is estimated at Rp1,100 trillion, representing about 10 per cent of Indonesia's total market cap.

Government Assesses Impact of US-Iran Peace on Fuel Prices

The Indonesian government is closely monitoring the potential impact of the US-Iran peace agreement on domestic fuel prices, particularly non-subsidised fuels. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto noted that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a key factor, but price adjustments will depend on the implementation of the deal and ongoing oil supply distribution. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani welcomed the peace deal, expressing optimism that declining global oil prices will positively influence the national economy.

Coordinating Minister AHY Stresses Accelerated Post-Earthquake Infrastructure Recovery in Palu

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has emphasised the need for rapid and coordinated reconstruction of infrastructure damaged by the earthquake in Palu. The government is prioritising the immediate repair of roads, bridges, and homes to restore connectivity and economic activity. A cross-sectoral approach and synergy between ministries and local governments are being reinforced to ensure the rehabilitation is effective and sustainable.

MotoGP Mandalika 2026 Set for October, Ticket Sales Officially Open

The Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026 is scheduled for 9–11 October at the Mandalika Circuit, with ticket sales launched in Jakarta. Organisers highlight the event's significant economic impact, including Rp4.96 trillion in national economic benefit from the previous edition, alongside the successful development of a fully local race marshal team.

Dedi Mulyadi optimistic West Java investment can offset layoff storm

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi expressed confidence that a wave of layoffs in the province can be mitigated by high investment and the opening of new industrial zones. He noted that several industrial areas have already begun recruiting workers, with large-scale absorption projected for 2027. The governor also urged local job seekers to improve their basic competencies to meet strict corporate standards.

ASN Must Realise Sustainable and Equitable Development, Says AHY

Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has urged civil servants to champion sustainable and equitable development to bridge regional disparities across Indonesia. Speaking to IPDN cadets, he stressed the importance of understanding national challenges and formulating pro-people policies. Deputy Home Minister Bima Arya also advised future bureaucrats to navigate political dynamics wisely while maintaining their public service duties.

Vice President Gibran Invites Students to Review Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Ende

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited Ende, East Nusa Tenggara, accompanied by university students to monitor the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The visit included inspections at local schools and a newly built market, with a focus on ensuring the programme reaches disadvantaged regions. The government aims to strengthen oversight and improve governance of the MBG and cooperative programmes through direct academic involvement.

Glory Harimas' Role in MBG Corruption Case: Selling SPPG Points and Funnelling Money to Dadan

The Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, head of the Indonesia Food Security Review foundation, as a new suspect in the alleged corruption of the free nutritious meal programme. He is accused of illegally obtaining and selling meal distribution points (SPPG) and subsequently handing over money to former National Nutrition Agency (BGN) head Dadan Hindayana. The case now involves six suspects, including three former top BGN officials.

Banyuwangi Regent Encourages Innovation with Tangible Community Impact

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani reaffirmed her administration's commitment to fostering innovations that deliver real benefits to residents, noting the district has been recognised as Indonesia's most innovative for eight consecutive years. She stressed that new programmes, whether digital applications or other initiatives, must demonstrably improve public welfare to be prioritised. The local government is also complementing its award-winning electronic governance system with direct outreach to villages to bridge the digital divide in remote areas.

Danantara CEO Confirms Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders for PLN

Rosan Roeslani, CEO of Danantara and Minister of Investment, has confirmed that an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders (RUPSLB) for state electricity company PLN is being prepared. The confirmation was made following a meeting at the Presidential Palace, though no specific date or agenda has been disclosed. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto also acknowledged recent discussions with PLN but did not confirm the meeting's details.

BGN Corruption Case: Lawyer Claims 41 Names Requested SPPG Allocations

The legal representative for former BGN deputy head Sony Sonjaya has alleged that 41 individuals, primarily from political circles, were involved in requesting allocations for the Free Nutritious Meal programme's fulfilment points. The claim emerged after a nine-hour interrogation of Sonjaya, who has been named a suspect in the corruption scandal. The lawyer also stated his client was unaware of any subsequent trading of these points and denied receiving any illicit funds.

Sony Sonjaya's Lawyer Claims 41 Names Allegedly Sought SPPG Site Allocations

The legal counsel for former National Nutrition Agency deputy Sony Sonjaya has alleged that 41 individuals, primarily from political circles, were involved in requesting allocations for nutritional service fulfilment unit (SPPG) sites. The figure has increased from 26 names previously circulated on social media. Sony, now a suspect in a corruption case concerning the Free Nutritious Meal programme, reportedly told investigators he was unaware if the allocated sites were subsequently sold and denied receiving any money.

Central Jakarta Court Values Ex-Hotel Sultan Area Executed at Rp28.9 Trillion

The Central Jakarta District Court has executed the eviction of the former Hotel Sultan complex, valuing the prime land and buildings at Rp28.9 trillion. Court officials described it as the largest and most expensive civil execution in Indonesian history. The execution enforces a court ruling requiring the defendants to vacate the property on Jalan Gatot Subroto and return it to the plaintiffs.

Purbaya: China Beri Dukungan Penuh Penerbitan Panda Bond Indonesia

Menteri Keuangan Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa mengumumkan bahwa pemerintah China dan People's Bank of China memberikan dukungan penuh serta komitmen percepatan perizinan untuk rencana penerbitan perdana Panda Bond Indonesia. Langkah ini merupakan bagian dari strategi diversifikasi sumber pembiayaan pembangunan nasional dalam denominasi yuan. Dukungan tersebut dinilai mencerminkan kepercayaan tinggi terhadap fundamental ekonomi Indonesia yang tetap solid di tengah ketidakpastian global.

Lenovo Showcases AI Innovations for Manufacturing and Education Sectors

Lenovo has unveiled a suite of artificial intelligence solutions under its 'One Lenovo Solutions' ecosystem aimed at accelerating digitalisation in Indonesia's manufacturing and education sectors. The integrated platform spans devices, edge computing, and data centres to enhance productivity, quality control, and supply chain management. The company also introduced smart classroom tools to support hybrid learning and real-time student device monitoring.

Use of e-Meterai in Digital Transactions Continues to be Strengthened

State-owned enterprise Peruri is intensifying the adoption of its electronic stamp (e-Meterai) to meet the growing demand for legally valid digital documents. The initiative aims to provide a practical, secure, and legally recognised solution for authenticating electronic documents in business and personal administration. The public is urged to obtain e-Meterai exclusively through official channels partnered with Peruri.

PKB Open to Parliamentary Threshold of 5-7%

The National Awakening Party (PKB) has indicated it is amenable to raising the parliamentary threshold to between 5 and 7 per cent in the upcoming revision of the Election Law. PKB faction leader Jazilul Fawaid stressed the party remains open to public input and has yet to adopt a final stance. He also emphasised that the revision must address broader democratic quality issues, such as money politics, rather than focusing solely on thresholds and electoral synchronicity.

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk's Strategy for Achieving Top Performance Rating from Home Affairs Ministry

Banyuwangi Regent Ipuk Fiestiandani has outlined the strategies that led her administration to be ranked first in performance by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The award, based on over 600 indicators including poverty reduction and human development index improvements, was attributed to a professional work culture and broad community collaboration. Ipuk emphasised that the achievement reflects the collective effort of civil servants, entrepreneurs, educators, and the wider public.

Green Subsidised Housing Enters Academic Study

A subsidised housing project in Serang, Banten, will serve as a research site for University of Indonesia postgraduate students seeking models for affordable, quality, and sustainable homes. The collaboration between developer Infiniti Land and UI's School of Sustainable Development aims to bridge academic study with practical housing construction. The research is expected to inform national efforts to improve the quality of subsidised housing under the government's 3 million homes programme.

Indigenous community in Nabire hands over 50 hectares of land to Indonesian Army

An indigenous community in Nabire, Central Papua, has transferred 50 hectares of customary land to the Indonesian Army to facilitate the establishment of a new military unit. The handover supports a central government directive to expand army battalions and strengthen national defence. The Army commander emphasised the cultural significance of the land and pledged to use it responsibly to bolster state sovereignty and local development.

AGO Immediately Detains Glory Harimas, New Suspect in MBG Governance Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, Chairwoman of the Indonesia Food Security Review Foundation, as a new suspect in the alleged corruption case surrounding the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. She was immediately detained for 20 days after investigators found sufficient evidence during her witness examination. This brings the total number of suspects to six, including former senior officials of the National Nutrition Agency.

Mount Semeru Erupts, Ash Column Reaches 1,000 Metres Above Summit

Mount Semeru in East Java erupted on Thursday evening, sending an ash column 1,000 metres above its peak. The volcano, currently at Level III alert status, has recorded 12 eruptions since early morning, prompting authorities to maintain exclusion zones. Officials have warned of potential pyroclastic flows, lava avalanches, and lahars along specific river valleys.

Foundation Head Named New Suspect as Free Nutritious Meal Corruption Scandal Widens

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, head of the Indonesia Food Security Review foundation, as a new suspect in the corruption case involving the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Sihombing is accused of colluding with former National Nutrition Agency (BGN) chief Dadan Hindayana to sell access to kitchen service points (SPPG) to private parties. The investigation has now ensnared six suspects, with authorities also probing alleged price mark-ups in the procurement of electric motorcycles, shoes, tablets, and televisions for the programme.

DPR Member Calls for Automatic Barriers at All Level Crossings

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has urged that all level crossings be equipped with automatic barriers to enhance safety for trains and road users. The call follows a history of accidents at unguarded or inadequately secured crossings. Alongside infrastructure upgrades like flyovers, the government and PT KAI are working on short- and long-term solutions, including improving public compliance.

Australian INTERPOL Fugitive Arrested in Bali in the Toilet of a Private Jet

Indonesian immigration authorities at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport apprehended Australian fugitive Angelo Pandeli, who was attempting to flee to Mozambique using a fake Brazilian passport. Pandeli, linked to a transnational drug cartel and the Hells Angels, was discovered hiding in the lavatory of a private jet after the crew tried to depart without clearance. He has been deported to Australia to face legal proceedings and permanently blacklisted from entering Indonesia.

Bulog Sulteng Delivers Food Aid to Earthquake Victims

State logistics agency Bulog's Central Sulawesi office has distributed food aid to communities affected by the recent earthquake in Sigi Regency. The assistance, comprising 80 sacks of rice, cooking oil, and sugar, was donated by employees as part of a humanitarian mission. The agency is also continuing its regular food aid programme for underprivileged residents in the area.

Young NU Figure Urges 35th Congress to Back Prabowo-Gibran for Two Terms

A young Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) leader has called on the organisation's 35th Congress to avoid internal power struggles and instead endorse President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka for a second term. Gus Lilur argued the Prabowo-Gibran leadership symbolises national reconciliation and urged the congress to prioritise unity over factional interests. He also publicly backed Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar for NU chairman and proposed Said Aqil Siradj return as Rais Aam.

New Suspect's Role in Free Nutritious Meal Programme: Trading SPPG Locations, Kickbacks to Dadan

The Attorney General's Office has revealed that former National Nutrition Agency (BGN) head Dadan Hindayana received illicit payments from the sale of locations for the Free Nutritious Meal Programme's service units. The scheme involved a foundation chairman, Glory Harimas Sihombing, who was given access to secure and then sell these SPPG kitchen sites to interested parties. The case is part of a broader corruption investigation into the programme's governance, which has also uncovered significant mark-ups in procurement.

Staple Food Prices in Batam Remain High, Residents Begin to Reorganise Spending

Staple food prices in Batam have remained stubbornly high through mid-June 2026, forcing households to adjust their daily budgets. The persistent price pressure aligns with rising annual inflation in the city, which reached approximately 3.99 per cent in May. Traders report that volatile supply chains continue to drive fluctuations, particularly for chillies, onions, and vegetables.

Constitutional Court Ruling on Maintenance: Husband Is Not a Cash Machine, Here's the Explanation

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has rejected a judicial review of the Marriage Law, clarifying that a husband's duty to provide maintenance is not absolute and must align with his actual financial capacity. The ruling emphasises the principle of equal standing in marriage, framing it as a partnership based on mutual responsibility rather than a hierarchical relationship. The court warned that treating the husband as a limitless source of money contradicts the spirit of the law and allows for the wife's economic contribution when necessary.

Foundation Chair Becomes Sixth Suspect in MBG Corruption, Attorney General's Office Reveals Role

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, chair of a food security foundation, as the sixth suspect in the corruption scandal surrounding the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG). Investigators allege he was granted special access to kitchen sites by the former head of the National Nutrition Agency, which he then sold to prospective programme partners. The case also involves suspected cash payments in foreign and local currency to the former agency chief.

BNPT RI says radicalism threat in Riau Islands declines

Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) reports a decrease in the radicalism threat in the Riau Islands province, with the 2025 Radicalism Potential Index dropping to 13.1 from 13.7 in 2023. The survey, conducted across Batam, Tanjungpinang, and Bintan, aims to inform targeted prevention policies and strengthen community resilience against radical ideologies. Officials emphasised the importance of multi-party collaboration and also measured public awareness of counter-terrorism bodies and digital religious content consumption.

UMY Solidifies Position as Indonesia's Top Islamic University in QS WUR 2027

Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) has strengthened its standing as the highest-ranked Islamic university in Indonesia according to the QS World University Rankings 2027. The university placed 14th nationally and second among private universities, showing significant score improvements in international research networks and employer reputation. UMY's leadership attributes the consistent rise to a strong commitment to academic quality, innovation, and global partnerships.

UMY Ranks Among Top 15 Islamic Universities in QS WUR 2027

Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) has been ranked 14th nationally and is the top Islamic university in Indonesia according to the QS World University Rankings 2027. The university's score more than doubled over the past two years, driven by significant gains in international research networks and employment outcomes. UMY is now targeting a position within the world's top 1,000 universities.

Prabowo's Meeting with Himbara Bank Chiefs Focused on Efficiency, Not Credit Rate Freeze

Minister Rosan Roeslani clarified that President Prabowo Subianto did not instruct state-owned banks to hold lending rates following the BI Rate hike. The meeting instead emphasised improving banking efficiency and productivity to sustain credit growth. The government's focus remains on maintaining a healthy banking sector and ensuring continued lending to businesses and the public.

Suspect Sony Sonjaya Reveals 41 Politicians Who Requested SPPG Locations

Sony Sonjaya, a former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency and a suspect in the free meals programme corruption case, has disclosed 41 names of politicians who directly requested locations for nutrition fulfilment service units (SPPG). The figure has increased from the 26 names previously revealed to investigators. The disclosure forms part of an ongoing probe by the Attorney General's Office into alleged corruption involving the procurement and placement of SPPG kitchens.

Piercing the Ocean's Darkness at ArtScience Museum: From Deep-Sea Exploration to Environmental Film Festival

Singapore's ArtScience Museum has launched a major multisensory exhibition, 'Into the Ocean: Journey Beneath', in partnership with OceanX, offering visitors a simulated deep-sea expedition. The experience combines science, art, and technology to traverse three ocean zones, culminating in a collaboration with WWF on seagrass restoration. The museum is also hosting a complementary Sustainable Futures Film Festival to further highlight marine conservation and the human relationship with nature.

Prabowo Instructs State Banks to Lower Interest Rates for MSMEs

President Prabowo Subianto has directed Indonesia's state-owned banks to expand financing access and reduce interest rates for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The move aims to address the disparity where small businesses often face higher borrowing costs than large corporations. The government also expressed optimism about economic resilience, citing easing global tensions and falling oil prices.

Alfamart (AMRT) Restructures Business Ownership in Singapore, Philippines & Bangladesh

PT Sumber Alfaria Trijaya Tbk (AMRT) has undertaken a major restructuring of its international operations through its Singapore subsidiary, Alfamart Retail Asia Pte. Ltd. (ARA). The series of transactions includes a capital injection and share acquisitions that increase ARA's stake in its Philippine retail entity to 45% and grant it majority control of the Bangladesh business. The move aims to centralise overseas management, strengthen capital for regional expansion, and allow the parent company to focus on the domestic minimarket market.

InJourney to Host MotoGP at Mandalika Circuit Again to Boost Economy and Sport Tourism

State-owned tourism holding company InJourney will once again host the MotoGP at the Mandalika Circuit in October 2026, citing significant economic benefits for the region and the nation. The event has reportedly transformed local human resources, with local marshals now being deployed internationally. The government views the race as a key part of its strategy to tap into the rapidly growing global sport tourism market.

Land Secured, Construction Begins on Eight Permanent 'Sekolah Rakyat' Sites

The Indonesian government is set to begin physical construction of eight new 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) after local administrations completed land provision. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf emphasised the programme's collaborative nature, targeting children from extremely poor families through active outreach rather than open registration. The initiative aims to expand educational access for the most disadvantaged, with strict instructions from the president to prevent corruption or favouritism in student selection.

DBS Treasures reports 289% net profit growth driven by personalised wealth management

PT Bank DBS Indonesia's priority banking segment, DBS Treasures, recorded a 289% year-on-year surge in net profit after tax, significantly exceeding its budget targets. The growth was accompanied by a 73% increase in new affluent customers, attributed to personalised portfolio recommendations integrating regional investment insights and machine learning technology. The bank navigated a challenging environment marked by IHSG corrections, capital outflows, and intense promotional competition throughout 2025.

Iran Warns US Against Reneging on Newly Signed Peace Deal

Iran has issued a stern warning to the United States, cautioning against any failure to honour a recently signed peace agreement. President Masoud Pezeshkian hailed the document as 'historic', while a foreign ministry spokesman stressed that implementation would be the true test, particularly with parties that have previously shirked commitments. Tehran vowed to monitor compliance closely and retaliate if Washington fails to meet its obligations.

BGN to Cluster MBG Kitchens, Ending Flat Rp 6 Million Daily Incentive

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is developing a clustering scheme for its free nutritious meal kitchens (MBG) to better reflect regional conditions, particularly in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas. The current flat incentive of Rp 6 million per day per kitchen is deemed unfair, as it does not account for the varying number of beneficiaries served. The new scheme will link operational models and financing to verified beneficiary data, aiming to improve budget efficiency and fairness.

KAMMI Maluku Rejects Muktamar Agenda in Ambon, Here's Why

The Maluku chapter of the Indonesian Muslim Student Action Union (KAMMI) has firmly rejected plans to hold a Muktamar in Ambon, citing a lack of constitutional legitimacy. The organisation warns that proceeding without proper legal standing sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the group's integrity. KAMMI Maluku has urged local authorities to withhold support and vowed to take legal and organisational action to block the event.

NTB DPRD Targets Completion of Anti-Violence SOP for Islamic Boarding Schools by 15 July

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional House of Representatives is drafting a mandatory code of ethics and standard operating procedure (SOP) to combat violence and sexual abuse in Islamic boarding schools, with a target completion date of 15 July 2026. The initiative, supported by the provincial police chief and prosecutor's office, aims to strengthen oversight and prevention across all pesantren in the region. The regulation is expected to eventually form the basis of a formal regional bylaw.

Batam Students Stage Protest at DPRD, Submit '45 Demands' to Local Government

Student activists in Batam have presented a list of 45 demands to local government officials, covering national issues such as asset forfeiture legislation and fuel prices, alongside pressing local concerns. The protest highlighted severe local infrastructure problems, particularly a water supply crisis, which they argue is unacceptable given the city's rapid development. The students have given authorities a six-month deadline to resolve the water issue, threatening escalated protests and a potential vote of no confidence in the mayor if no significant progress is made.

Hormuz Strait Reopens, but Experts Warn of Weeks-Long Logistical Nightmare

Despite a political agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, maritime experts caution that clearing the backlog of hundreds of stranded tankers and restoring normal traffic could take weeks or even months. Key challenges include unresolved security protocols, insurance reactivation, and a massive queue of vessels awaiting transit, which will likely prioritise oil and LNG carriers over other commercial ships.

Meeting OJK and New IDX Directors, Dasco Calls for Strengthening Stock Exchange Governance

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, met with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the newly appointed board of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) to discuss governance reforms. Dasco urged stronger oversight to enhance the credibility and competitiveness of the capital market. The new IDX board, led by CEO Jeffrey Hendrik, committed to continuing integrity reforms and deepening the market to elevate the exchange to world-class standards.

Students Slam Central Java Governor for Ignoring Protests: 'He Never Sees or Hears Us'

Hundreds of students from PMII staged a third protest at the Central Java governor's office in Semarang, expressing frustration that Governor Ahmad Luthfi has consistently failed to meet with them. The demonstrators threatened to force their way into the compound after their calls for dialogue were ignored. Neither the governor nor any provincial officials emerged to address the crowd before the protest concluded.

South Kalimantan Government Designates Three Priority Areas for Forest and Land Fire Management

The South Kalimantan provincial government has identified three priority zones to strengthen preparedness against forest and land fires during the dry season. The areas include the vicinity of Syamsudin Noor International Airport, the northern Banua Anam region, and the Meratus Mountains. The strategy involves enhanced patrols, hotspot monitoring, infrastructure development, and cross-sector coordination as mandated by Presidential Instruction No. 3/2020.

Indonesia reactivates forest fire desk to face El Nino threat

The Indonesian government is reactivating its Forest and Land Fire Coordination Desk in 2026 as an anticipatory measure against heightened fire risks from the El Niño phenomenon. Six provinces, including Riau and South Sumatra, have been identified as particularly vulnerable to drought and increased hotspots. The reactivation aims to strengthen inter-agency coordination between central and regional authorities to ensure a faster and more effective response.

Free Nutritious Meal Budget Deemed Too Large, Agency Ready to Recalculate

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) considers the proposed Rp270 trillion budget for the 2027 Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme excessive and is working with the Finance Ministry to recalculate it. The agency is also implementing efficiency measures, including halting meal distribution during school holidays and refocusing beneficiaries away from affluent schools. The 2026 budget has already been reduced from Rp268 trillion to Rp228.38 trillion following fiscal adjustments.

Dozens of vehicles caught in illegal parking crackdown in Cengkareng

The West Jakarta Transportation Agency has impounded 66 vehicles during an operation targeting illegal parking and unlicensed parking attendants near City Park Apartments. The crackdown aims to restore road function, ease congestion, and curb unauthorised levies, following directives from the Jakarta Governor and public complaints. Officials hope the enforcement will deter motorists and illegal attendants from occupying pavements and road shoulders.

AGO Names Private Party as Sixth Suspect in Free Nutritious Meal Programme Corruption Case

The Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, a private sector individual, as the sixth suspect in the corruption scandal surrounding the Free Nutritious Meal programme at the National Nutrition Agency. He is alleged to have colluded with the former agency head to manipulate the sale of meal service points and illicitly funnelled cash payments from programme partners. The case highlights deepening concerns over governance and graft within a flagship government social initiative.

Change of Banjarbaru Land Office Head Expected to Expedite Court Ruling Enforcement

A resident of Banjarmasin is awaiting a formal response from the Banjarbaru Land Office regarding the enforcement of a legally binding court decision on a land dispute. Despite submitting an official inquiry following Ombudsman guidance, no administrative explanation has been provided by the outgoing or newly appointed office head. The complainant hopes the new leadership will evaluate the case and ensure legal certainty and orderly land administration.

Indonesian Film Festival 2026 to Serve as National Reflection, Says Culture Minister

Culture Minister Fadli Zon stated that the 2026 Indonesian Film Festival (FFI) will be a pivotal moment for the nation to reflect on its past, present, and future through cinema. The event aims to strengthen the domestic film ecosystem and boost the international visibility of Indonesian films. The awards ceremony is scheduled for 20 November 2026.

Two Bekasi Students Secure Prestigious Garuda Scholarship to Study Abroad

Two students from Bekasi, Keiza and Ravi, have been awarded the highly competitive Garuda Scholarship from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, which has a quota of only 1,000 secondary school students. Their success was built on rigorous academic and leadership assessments, alongside extensive school support and extracurricular involvement. They will now pursue higher education at UNSW Sydney and the University of British Columbia in Canada.

What BPJS Kesehatan Does Not Cover: A Must-Know for Citizens

BPJS Kesehatan has clarified the scope of its national health insurance coverage, detailing services that are excluded from the JKN programme. Exclusions include cosmetic procedures, treatments abroad, and services already covered by other state agencies. The agency also reiterated the imposition of a service penalty for members who reactivate their dormant policies during inpatient care.

BI Rate Hits 5.75%, Airlangga Urges State Banks Not to Rush Credit Rate Hikes

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has asked state-owned banks under Himbara to delay raising lending rates, following Bank Indonesia's decision to increase its benchmark rate to 5.75% in June 2026. The central bank has cumulatively raised rates by 100 basis points over the past month to defend the rupiah, which recently touched Rp18,000 per US dollar. The government is keen to ensure credit expansion continues smoothly to sustain economic growth momentum.

Behind the Muharram Rituals Still Preserved by Muslims in Java

The Islamic month of Muharram, known as Suro in the Javanese calendar, is marked by a blend of religious observance and enduring ancestral traditions across Java. Communities perform rituals such as the larung kepala kerbau in Tulungagung and a sacred bath in Sukabumi, seeking blessings and safety. These practices highlight the syncretic cultural heritage maintained alongside the month's Islamic significance.

SOE Synergy Launches Blue Impact Programme to Boost South Lampung Coastal Economy

Eight Indonesian state-owned enterprises, led by PT Brantas Abipraya, have launched the 'Blue Impact' programme in South Lampung to integrate environmental conservation with community empowerment. The initiative combines coral reef rehabilitation, financial literacy education, and free health check-ups to enhance the livelihoods of coastal residents. Local officials praised the programme for aligning with regional efforts to promote sustainable tourism and ecosystem preservation.

Defendant in Indramayu Family Murder Case Faces Death Penalty Demand

Prosecutors in Indramayu, West Java, have demanded the death penalty for Ririn Rifanto, accused of the premeditated murder of five family members. The prosecution argued the defendant's actions were sadistic, caused deep suffering, and met all legal elements of the charges. A second defendant in the same case received a demand of 20 years' imprisonment.

Economy Pressured by Global Situation, INDEF Advises Government to Improve Domestic Policies

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (INDEF) has urged the Indonesian government to urgently evaluate overlapping domestic policies as global economic pressures intensify. A senior researcher warned that a lack of credible regulatory governance and inter-ministerial synchronisation is exacerbating capital outflows and threatening the manufacturing sector. Fiscal flexibility and rupiah stability are being eroded, with the energy subsidy bill alone projected to exceed Rp 500 trillion by year-end.

Pertamax Price Hike: Aismoli Urges Government to Accelerate Energy Transition

The Indonesian Electric Motorcycle Industry Association (Aismoli) is urging the government to speed up electric vehicle adoption following a fuel price increase and strong public support for low-emission transport. The association argues that the 37% fuel price rise, coupled with a weakening rupiah, presents a strategic moment to reduce fuel dependency and ease the burden of energy subsidies on the state budget. A recent survey shows 98% of respondents support electric vehicle use, with many willing to switch due to lower operational costs.

BGN Confirms It Will Not Purchase Electric Motorcycles and Similar Items in the Future

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has pledged not to repeat procurement of items deemed non-essential, such as electric motorcycles, following an evaluation of its 2025 spending. The decision comes amid an ongoing corruption investigation by the Attorney General's Office into alleged price mark-ups on various goods. The agency also revealed its 2026 budget has been reduced to Rp228.38 trillion after the Ministry of Finance blocked certain allocations.

Mechanic Dies Crushed by Dump Truck During Repairs in North Sangatta

A mechanic was fatally crushed while repairing a dump truck in Sangatta Utara, East Kutai, on Wednesday afternoon. Police suspect the jack failed to support the vehicle's weight, causing the truck body to collapse onto the victim. Authorities are investigating the incident and have urged transport operators to adhere strictly to workplace safety standards.

Sony Sonjaya Reveals 41 Names in MBG Corruption Case, Majority Politicians

The list of individuals allegedly involved in requesting meal distribution points for Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme has expanded from 26 to 41 names, according to former National Nutrition Agency (BGN) deputy head Sony Sonjaya. His lawyer stated that the majority of these new names are politicians, and that Sony claimed he received no personal financial gain, only seeking to meet the programme's distribution targets. The investigation also uncovered details about an individual with the initials NSD who allegedly changed the name of a foundation managing several distribution points three times without proper authorisation.

Plogging Action in Bali Collects 100 kg of Waste

A collaborative plogging initiative in Bali's Petitenget coastal area, combining jogging with litter collection, gathered over 100 kilogrammes of rubbish. The 'Pure Path' programme, led by AMOREPACIFIC Indonesia with the Malu Dong Foundation, aims to integrate environmental care into daily lifestyles. The company also provided Rp100 million in funding to expand the foundation's waste management education and community outreach programmes.

IKA Untirta Supports P2MI Synergy to Strengthen Migrant Worker Governance

The alumni association of Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University (IKA Untirta) is backing a multi-agency collaboration aimed at creating a safer and more competitive ecosystem for Indonesian migrant workers. The partnership involves the Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI), the Banten provincial government, and state-owned steelmaker Krakatau Steel. The initiative focuses on improving protection, competency training, and assistance for workers from pre-departure through to their return.

Sony Sonjaya Reveals Alleged Fictitious Rp 300 Billion CCTV and Fingerprint Project to Attorney General's Office

Sony Sonjaya, a suspect in the free nutritious meal programme governance case, has applied to be a justice collaborator and disclosed an alleged fictitious contract worth over Rp 300 billion. The contract involved the rental of 5,000 CCTV cameras and fingerprint scanners for the National Nutrition Agency's service units, but the vendor reportedly could not demonstrate any installations. The Attorney General's Office is now examining these claims as part of the wider investigation.

Prosecutors Reveal Allegations Richard Lee Ordered Alteration of Beauty Product Packaging

Indonesian prosecutors have detailed charges against celebrity doctor Richard Lee, alleging he ordered staff to alter labels on several skincare products and distributed cosmetics that failed to meet safety standards. The case also scrutinises the sale of a 'DNA Salmon' product used with needles, contravening its cosmetic registration. If convicted under health and consumer protection laws, Lee faces up to 12 years in prison and fines of up to Rp2 billion.

Judges Sentence Six Defendants in TaniHub Corruption Case, State Losses Reach Rp364.22 Billion

The Jakarta Corruption Court has convicted six defendants in a corruption and money laundering case involving investment fund management at TaniHub, resulting in state losses of USD 25 million or Rp364.22 billion. The losses stemmed from three tranches of unaccountable investment disbursements between 2019 and 2023. The court handed down prison sentences and fines, with two defendants also ordered to pay restitution.

F&B Industry Growth Drives Shift in Raw Material Usage

The rapid expansion of Indonesia's food and beverage sector, particularly in food service and delivery, is reshaping demand for more practical and efficient raw materials. PT Lautan Natural Krimerindo is responding by building a liquid production facility to offer dairy and non-dairy solutions that enhance operational consistency and speed. The move aims to foster deeper collaboration with businesses ranging from independent coffee shops to large-scale restaurant chains.

Head of Government Communications Body Presents Research Showing Improved Child Nutrition After Free Nutritious Meals Programme

Research by Bappenas indicates significant nutritional improvements among schoolchildren benefiting from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, with fruit consumption rising from 26 to 84 percent and animal protein intake from 65 to 90 percent. The programme has also reduced the number of students experiencing hunger during school hours from 56 percent to a much lower figure, while boosting the turnover of 86 percent of local MSME suppliers. Officials highlight these positive outcomes while acknowledging the need to address any shortcomings.

Fisherman from Penajam Paser Utara Rescued After Being Adrift at Sea

A 55-year-old fisherman from Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, was successfully rescued on Tuesday night after being reported missing when his boat engine failed. Lukman was found safe on a bagang (fishing platform) following a joint search effort by the local disaster agency, police, military, and residents. The incident highlights the critical need for fishermen to ensure vessel seaworthiness and carry communication devices for emergencies.

PERURI Urges Businesses to Use Official E-Meterai

State-owned enterprise PERURI has called on the public and businesses to obtain electronic meterai (e-meterai) exclusively through its authorised channels to ensure the legal validity of digital documents. The company emphasised that as digital transformation accelerates administrative processes, the need for secure and legally recognised electronic stamping becomes paramount. PERURI has listed several official distributor platforms, including those operated in partnership with PT Pos Indonesia and PT Mitra Pajakku.

JCM: Campuses must remain safe spaces for intellectual dialectics

The Young Intellectuals Network (JCM) has called for universities to remain safe havens for intellectual debate, condemning the recent forced dissolution of a discussion at Gadjah Mada University as an act of intimidation that harms democracy. The group also rejected any political co-optation of student movements and urged the government to improve governance of strategic programmes like the free nutritious meals initiative. JCM further emphasised the need for sound fiscal policy and transparent management of village cooperatives to prevent oligarchic exploitation.

After 4-Hour Meeting, Rosan Reveals Prabowo's Message to State Bank Bosses

Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani disclosed President Prabowo Subianto's directives to state-owned bank directors following a lengthy meeting at the State Palace. The President urged the banks to ensure their presence benefits the public, particularly by easing access to credit for MSMEs, while maintaining prudent business practices. The meeting also covered the combined valuation of the state banks, which exceeds Rp1,100 trillion, and the broader optimistic outlook for the Indonesian economy.

Airlangga hopes state banks will not raise lending rates too quickly

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has urged state-owned banks under Himbara to refrain from hastily increasing lending rates following Bank Indonesia's cumulative 100 basis point hike in the benchmark rate to 5.75 percent. The minister emphasised the need for credit activity to continue despite the monetary tightening. Bank Rakyat Indonesia has already indicated it sees no urgent need for significant rate increases in the near term.

Vino G Bastian Discusses Role of Actor with Special Needs in Film 'Tanah Runtuh'

Actor Vino G Bastian has emphasised that the inclusion of Ridho Khaliq, an actor with Down syndrome, in the upcoming film 'Tanah Runtuh' was not a commercial decision but a vital source of inspiration. He highlighted the untapped potential of people with special needs and expressed hope the film would encourage society to empower them. The drama, set against a backdrop of displacement and personal responsibility, is scheduled for nationwide release on 25 June 2026.

Teladan Metropolitan City Rally 2026 Held to Celebrate Jakarta's 499th Anniversary

The Teladan Metropolitan City Rally (TMCR) 2026 returns as a flagship event for Jakarta's 499th anniversary, blending automotive navigation with cultural exploration. Organisers emphasise the rally is a non-speed event focused on time precision, strategy, and safety, traversing a 90-kilometre route through the capital's historic and cultural landmarks. The event, supported by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government and automotive bodies, aims to strengthen community ties ahead of the city's 500th year.

Court Rules TaniHub Corruption Case Caused State Losses of Rp364.22 Billion

A Jakarta court has determined that corruption and money laundering involving TaniHub's investment funds between 2019 and 2023 resulted in state losses of USD 25 million, equivalent to Rp364.22 billion. The losses stemmed from multiple investment disbursements and were evidenced by a drastic decline in investment value, fictitious receivables, and the group's subsequent insolvency. Six defendants received prison sentences ranging from two to nine years, along with substantial fines and restitution orders.

Government Ensures Post-Disaster Recovery in Sumatra is Empowerment-Oriented

The Indonesian government has committed to an inclusive and integrated post-disaster recovery process in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, with a strong focus on community empowerment. Coordinating Minister Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar stressed that economic recovery must accompany physical reconstruction to ensure affected communities can regain their livelihoods. While significant progress has been made in restoring utilities and housing, challenges remain in reviving the agriculture and fisheries sectors.

Chairman of Indonesia Food Security Review Foundation Named Suspect in Free Nutritious Meal Programme Corruption Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, Chairman of the Indonesia Food Security Review Foundation, as a new suspect in the corruption case surrounding the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He is accused of facilitating partnerships between the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and unqualified foundations, as well as involvement in price mark-ups for programme procurement. This brings the total number of suspects to six, including former BGN head Dadan Hindayana.

Revenue Reaches Rp5.7 Trillion, Transport Issuer Distributes Dividend of Rp166 per Share

PT Blue Bird Tbk (BIRD) will distribute a cash dividend of Rp166 per share, representing 65.3% of its 2025 net profit, after posting record revenue of Rp5.7 trillion. The company's growth was driven by service quality improvements, technological innovation, and the expansion of its mobility ecosystem. Shareholders also approved the reappointment of the board until 2029.

B50 Mandate Could Cut Diesel Imports and Strengthen National Energy Security

Indonesia's plan to implement a mandatory B50 biodiesel blend by July 2026 is projected to significantly reduce diesel imports and save up to Rp157.28 trillion annually in foreign exchange. Economists and energy experts argue the policy will bolster national energy security, stabilise the rupiah, and lower carbon emissions. They caution, however, that increased palm oil demand must be met through productivity gains rather than deforestation.

Health Literacy Rises, Traditional Medicine Consumption Continues to Grow

Growing public awareness of natural health maintenance is driving demand for legally approved and safety-assured herbal products in Indonesia. Consumers increasingly prioritise marketing authorisation from the Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) and halal certification when selecting herbal remedies. Online herbal store Nia Nature reports that improved health literacy is a key factor behind the sustained growth in herbal consumption.

Selangor Selects Bandung as Gateway for Business Expansion into Indonesia

Invest Selangor Berhad will lead 150 delegates to Bandung in July 2026 for the first Selangor International Business Summit held outside Malaysia. The event aims to strengthen trade and investment ties between Selangor and West Java, focusing on manufacturing, digital technology, and logistics. The forum marks a decade of SIBS and is part of a regional economic diplomacy strategy to deepen ASEAN integration.

Cybersecurity Awareness Rises, but Indonesian Corporate Investment Still Lags

Awareness of cybersecurity risks is growing across diverse Indonesian industries, yet actual investment and implementation remain insufficient, creating a gap between risk perception and preparedness. A leading security consultant notes that while sectors like manufacturing and healthcare are now joining banks in focusing on digital protection, business growth priorities often delay comprehensive security spending. The challenge is compounded by organisations not knowing how to prioritise their initial cybersecurity investments effectively.

Danantara CEO Urges Himbara Banks to Boost Efficiency After BI Rate Hike

The head of Indonesia's Danantara investment authority, Rosan Roeslani, has called on state-owned banks to improve efficiency following Bank Indonesia's decision to raise its benchmark interest rate to 4.75%. He noted that while bank lending and liquidity have grown, maintaining affordable credit for the public and SMEs remains a priority. Both Roeslani and Danantara's CIO confirmed there was no presidential directive for Himbara banks to hold lending rates despite the hike.

BI: US Dollar Purchase Restrictions Suppress Transactions by 9 Million Dollars per Day

Bank Indonesia's policy limiting foreign exchange purchases without supporting documentation has reduced daily transaction volumes by an average of 9 million US dollars. The central bank plans to further tighten the threshold to 10,000 dollars per person per month by July 2026, aiming to increase the proportion of transactions backed by clear economic purposes to 98.1 per cent. The measures are designed to strengthen prudential principles in the financial market and curb speculative activity.

Forestry Ministry Finds Hundreds of Logs Suspected Illegal at Sawmill in Humbang Hasundutan

The Ministry of Forestry has uncovered approximately 238 logs of mixed jungle wood suspected to be illegal at a sawmill in North Sumatra. The discovery, part of an ongoing enforcement operation, revealed logs hidden under soil and stored away from the main processing area, with no valid legality documents initially presented. Authorities are investigating the supply chain to protect state revenue and ensure the timber industry operates on legally sourced materials.

AGO Names New Suspect from Private Sector in Free Nutritious Meal Governance Corruption Case

The Attorney General's Office has named Glory Harimas Sihombing, head of the Indonesia Food Security Review foundation, as a new suspect in the alleged corruption of the Free Nutritious Meal programme. Investigators allege he was given access by the former BGN chief to obtain and sell kitchen location points to private parties. This brings the total number of suspects to six in a case involving alleged affiliations and mark-ups in procurement.

Former Navy Chief Achmad Sutjipto Passes Away

Retired Admiral Achmad Sutjipto, former Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, has died at the age of 81 in Jakarta. House of Representatives Commission I Deputy Chairman Dave Laksono expressed condolences, praising Sutjipto's lifelong dedication and professionalism in service to the nation. The late admiral will be interred at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

MIND ID Booth at Invirotech Converts 51 kg of Organic Waste into Economic Value

MIND ID's participation at the Ministry of Environment's Invirotech 2026 event demonstrated circular economy principles by converting 51 kilogrammes of organic waste into maggot feed and fertiliser. The initiative, part of the 'MINERALive' booth, attracted 1,722 visitors and showcased waste management as a strategy for both environmental impact and community economic benefit. The resulting products were distributed to support local livestock farmers and tree conservation efforts.

Developer Shifts Strategy to Asset Optimisation

PT Paradise Property Tbk (INPP) is pivoting from aggressive expansion to optimising its existing assets, aiming for faster returns with lower risk. The lifestyle property firm, which posted record revenue of Rp1.1 trillion in 2023, will allocate up to Rp300 billion in capital expenditure for renovations rather than new projects. This shift is underscored by a dominant 90% recurring revenue stream from hospitality and commercial assets.

Minister reports higher FFB prices by 90 percent of palm oil firms

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister announced that 80 to 90 percent of palm oil companies have now raised their fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices following government intervention. The ministry, supported by the National Police's Food Task Force, held intensive meetings with industry players after a price slump that was deemed inconsistent with rising global CPO prices and a stronger US dollar. The number of firms paying below market rates has dropped from around 270 to 130, and the government pledges continued monitoring to protect the livelihoods of 15 million palm oil farmers.

Bakom Urges Public to Monitor Targeted Subsidised Fuel Policy

Indonesia's Government Communication Body (Bakom) has called on citizens to help oversee the distribution of subsidised fuel to ensure it reaches eligible groups. The agency highlighted that subsidised fuel is intended for vulnerable communities and online motorcycle taxi drivers, the vast majority of whom still use Pertalite. Officials stressed that subsidies remain in place with no price increases, while non-subsidised fuel users are expected to adjust to market price fluctuations.

Eco-Friendly Islamic Boarding School Wins Top 100 Excellence Award 2026

Darul Amanah Islamic Boarding School in Kendal has been recognised as the 'Top Eco-Friendly Pesantren with Green and Healthy Environment of The Year 2026' at a national awards ceremony in Surabaya. The accolade acknowledges the institution's sustained commitment to greening, cleanliness, and sustainable environmental education. The achievement builds on its 2025 Adiwiyata award at the provincial level, as the pesantren now prepares for a national-level environmental assessment.

IFI Urges BPJS to Evaluate Referral System as Physiotherapy Claims Hit Rp 5 Trillion

The Indonesian Physiotherapy Association (IFI) is calling for an evaluation of the national health insurance referral system after physiotherapy claims under the JKN programme reached approximately Rp 5 trillion. The association argues that the rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases and the multi-tiered referral process are driving up costs and delaying patient access to early rehabilitation. IFI proposes simplifying the referral pathway to improve efficiency and allow physiotherapists to conduct direct assessments in line with recent health legislation.

Sony Sonjaya Reveals Alleged Corruption in Procurement of 5,000 CCTV Units

Former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, has alleged a fictitious procurement of 5,000 CCTV units and fingerprint scanners worth over Rp300 billion within the Free Nutritious Meals programme. His lawyer stated the contract existed before Sony joined the agency and that the vendor could not demonstrate the installation of the equipment. The disclosure adds a new dimension to the ongoing corruption investigation into the programme's governance for 2025-2026.

Semen Indonesia's Profit Soars 380%

State-owned cement producer PT Semen Indonesia (SMGR) reported a 380% year-on-year surge in net profit for May 2026, reaching Rp46 billion. The turnaround is attributed to a business transformation programme initiated in July 2025, which has also boosted year-to-date profitability. The Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises highlighted this performance as evidence of successful efforts to strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesian SOEs.

Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake Shakes Sigi, Central Sulawesi

A shallow magnitude 4.7 earthquake struck Sigi, Central Sulawesi, on Thursday evening, part of a continuing aftershock sequence following a larger magnitude 6.7 quake two days prior. The tremor, felt in Palu and Sigi, was attributed to activity on the Sausu Fault. Authorities have now recorded over 800 aftershocks since the initial event.

Foreign and Domestic Investments in Indonesia Grow in the Q1 2026

Indonesia recorded total investment realisation of IDR 498.79 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, with foreign and domestic contributions nearly equal. Foreign direct investment grew 8.49% year-on-year, while domestic investment rose 5.97%, signalling sustained investor confidence. The basic metal industry and mining sectors attracted the largest shares of FDI and DDI respectively.

West Jakarta City Government Holds Blood Donation Drive to Celebrate Jakarta's 499th Anniversary

The West Jakarta City Government, in collaboration with the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI), organised a blood donation event to mark Jakarta's upcoming 499th anniversary. The initiative saw enthusiastic participation from civil servants and contract workers, with nearly 400 registrants exceeding the initial target of 200 donors. The drive aims to contribute to the blood supply for communities in need across Jakarta.

Bank Mega Syariah: Stronger US Dollar Does Not Reduce Financing Opportunities

Bank Mega Syariah maintains that the strengthening US dollar will not diminish financing opportunities for productive sectors with strong fundamentals. The bank remains optimistic about commercial financing growth in 2026, noting that export-oriented businesses may actually benefit from the higher exchange rate. Its total financing grew 7.20% year-on-year to over Rp9.9 trillion as of May 2026.

Ombudsman Kalbar Launches Complaint Post for 2026/2027 New Student Admissions

The West Kalimantan Ombudsman has established a complaint post to oversee the 2026/2027 new student admissions process for all school levels. The initiative aims to ensure the selection process is conducted objectively, transparently, and without discrimination. The post will handle reports related to admissions from kindergarten through to senior high school.

Sony Sonjaya Reveals 41 Names Linked to Free Nutritious Meals Corruption to Investigators

Former BGN deputy head Sony Sonjaya, a suspect in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) governance case, has expanded his list of implicated parties from 26 to 41 names during a 10-hour examination. His lawyer stated the additional names are mostly politicians who requested allocations for meal service points. Sony also detailed the role of an individual with the initials NSD, who allegedly changed foundation names multiple times to secure SPPG points without proper procedure.

Elderly Woman with Suspected Mental Illness Found Living with Decomposing Husband's Body in Serang

Residents of a housing complex in Serang, Banten, were shocked to discover the decomposing body of a 68-year-old man, I, who had been dead for nearly a week. His elderly wife, S, who is suspected of having a mental disorder, had been living alongside the corpse, believing her husband was merely ill and refusing to eat. Police are investigating the death, noting the deceased had a history of diabetes, while the couple's surviving child arrived from Depok after the forensic examination.

Government Prepares 870,000 Hectares of Smallholder Plantations to Create New Jobs

The Indonesian government is preparing 870,000 hectares of land for smallholder plantation development to accelerate agricultural downstreaming and boost farmer welfare. The programme, involving state-owned enterprises, targets strategic commodities such as cocoa, coffee, coconut, and sugarcane across regions including Papua. The initiative aims to create new employment opportunities while expanding processing facilities for crops like coconut in North Maluku, Morowali, and Indragiri Hilir.

Staple Food Prices in Batam Remain High, Dependent on Distributor Supply

Staple food prices in Batam have remained stubbornly high through mid-June 2026, driven by supply chain issues and rising inflation, which hit approximately 3.99 per cent in May. Consumers are adapting by comparing prices and reducing purchases, while traders report that costs fluctuate entirely based on distributor supply. The local trade office has yet to comment on the situation.

Police involve residents in blood donation drive to mark Bhayangkara 80th anniversary

The Kepulauan Seribu Police held a blood donation event involving local fishermen, online motorcycle taxi drivers, and journalists to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Bhayangkara (Indonesian Police Day). The initiative aimed to strengthen community ties and demonstrate social care, while also reinforcing the partnership between the police and the public in maintaining security and order.

List of Indonesia's Top 20 Universities According to QS World University Rankings 2027

Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) has released its 2027 World University Rankings, with several Indonesian universities maintaining competitive global positions. Universitas Indonesia (UI) remains the country's top institution at 191st globally, followed by UGM, Unair, and ITB. The rankings reflect Indonesia's ongoing efforts to enhance academic reputation, research quality, and international collaboration.

Sahroni Heaps Praise on Teddy: A High-Performance Official with Initiative

NasDem Party Treasurer Ahmad Sahroni has lauded Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya as a public official with exceptional initiative and performance. Sahroni described Teddy as the government's anchor, effectively managing the heavy responsibility of ensuring all presidential programmes run smoothly. He also defended Teddy's public commentary as part of his duty to clarify government-related issues.

Economist: BI-Rate Hike Shows Rupiah Still Under Pressure

Bank Indonesia's decision to raise its benchmark interest rate for the third time in a month signals persistent caution over rupiah depreciation risks and imported inflation. The cumulative 100 basis point hike to 5.75% reflects a preemptive strategy to maintain financial market attractiveness amid global uncertainty. BTN economists project the rate will likely hold steady for the rest of the year if external pressures ease.

Mount Semeru erupts, ash column reaches 1,000 metres above summit

Mount Semeru in East Java erupted on Thursday evening, sending an ash column 1,000 metres above its peak. The volcano has recorded 12 eruptions since early morning, with authorities maintaining a five-kilometre exclusion zone around the crater. Officials warn of potential hot clouds, lava avalanches, and lahars along river valleys originating from the summit.

Prabowo Instructs State Banks to Lower Interest Rates for MSMEs

President Prabowo Subianto has directed Indonesia's state-owned banks (Himbara) to prioritise social impact over profit by expanding financing access and reducing interest rates for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The President specifically called for an end to the disparity where small businesses face higher rates than large corporations, demanding rates for MSMEs be equal or lower. The government also sees stabilising global geopolitics and falling oil prices as positive factors that will provide fiscal space to support the domestic productive sector.

Perumda Pasar Jaya Boosts Grassroots Economy Through UMKM Bazaar

Jakarta's market operator Perumda Pasar Jaya is promoting grassroots economic growth by hosting a bazaar for micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) at its headquarters. The event aims to provide local entrepreneurs with wider promotional opportunities and strengthen Jakarta's economic ecosystem. The initiative aligns with the company's strategy to transform traditional markets into modern culinary hubs and inclusive economic centres.

Do Real Food and No Sugar Really Reduce Tantrums in Children? A Nutritionist Explains

The article examines claims linking a 'real food' diet with reduced tantrums in children, prompted by a celebrity's child. A public health nutritionist clarifies that tantrums are not solely caused by diet, but are influenced by multiple factors including a child's ability to express emotions. The piece also provides official Ministry of Health dietary guidelines for children aged 12-23 months and 2-5 years.

Ukraine Strikes Moscow Oil Refinery in Massive Drone Attack, Sparking Fires and Transport Chaos

Ukrainian forces launched one of their largest drone offensives against Moscow, striking a critical oil refinery and forcing the evacuation of major airports. President Zelensky described the attack as retaliation for Russia's destruction of a UNESCO heritage monastery in Kyiv. The strike crippled a facility supplying 40% of Moscow's petrol, exacerbating Russia's domestic fuel crisis and prompting calls from hardline Russian figures for nuclear retaliation.

National Nutrition Agency Reviews Targeting Criteria for Free Meal Programme

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is reviewing the targeting mechanism for its free nutritious meal programme (MBG), considering socio-economic indicators such as welfare deciles alongside nutritional vulnerability and food access. The agency is working with the Ministry of Finance to refine the 2027 budget, as the initial assumption of 81 million beneficiaries is deemed too large relative to actual needs and fiscal capacity.

MotoGP Mandalika 2026 Set for October: Poised to Boost Indonesia's Economy and Tourism

The Indonesian government has confirmed the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia will take place at the Mandalika Circuit in October, positioning the event as a strategic driver for economic growth and tourism. Officials highlighted the race's proven impact on spectator numbers, local economic contribution, and the development of national racing talent. The event is part of a broader push to establish sport tourism as a new engine for the Indonesian economy.

Hundreds of Semarang Students Protest Again at Central Java Governor's Office, Criticising MBG and Shrinking Civil Space

Hundreds of students from the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PMII) staged a third protest in a week outside the Central Java Governor's office in Semarang. The demonstrators demanded the termination of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme and condemned the increasing involvement of military and police personnel in civilian roles. Organisers vowed to continue the protests until their demands are met and political conditions improve.

Ministry of SMEs Partners with Grab to Accelerate Digitalisation of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises

Indonesia's Ministry of SMEs has partnered with Grab Indonesia and OVO to accelerate the digital transformation of micro, small, and medium enterprises through the 'Kota Masa Depan: Berani Digital' programme. The initiative, launched in Banjarmasin, provides training, mentoring, and access to digital financing to boost productivity and market expansion. Since 2021, the programme has helped over 200,000 SMEs enter the digital ecosystem and channelled more than Rp6 trillion in financing.

Gold Investment: Between FOMO and the Fear of Hoarding Wealth

The rising popularity of gold investment among Indonesians, particularly the youth, is being driven partly by social media trends and a fear of missing out. While Islam encourages prudent financial management, it warns against hoarding wealth without using it for social good. The article argues that investment decisions should stem from sound financial planning rather than social pressure or a desire to flaunt assets.

Sony Sonjaya Reveals Alleged Fictitious CCTV Procurement at National Nutrition Agency

Former BGN deputy chief Sony Sonjaya has alleged a fictitious procurement of CCTV and fingerprint devices worth over Rp300 billion, predating his tenure. The claim emerged during his questioning as a suspect in a corruption case involving the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The vendor reportedly failed to demonstrate any installation of the 5,000 units before the contract's expiry.

The Role of MSMEs in Job Creation

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play a crucial role in Indonesia's economy by absorbing a broad spectrum of workers and fostering entrepreneurship. Their growth helps reduce unemployment, alleviate poverty, and bridge economic disparities, particularly in rural areas. Sustained support from the government and the public is essential to maximise their contribution to inclusive and sustainable economic development.

Former Deputy Head of BGN Reveals Alleged Fictitious CCTV Procurement to Attorney General's Office

Sony Sonjaya, the former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), has submitted evidence of an alleged fictitious procurement of 5,000 CCTV units and fingerprint scanners for the Free Nutritious Meals programme to the Attorney General's Office. His lawyer claims the project, valued at part of a larger corruption case, could not be physically verified and is being presented as part of Sony's bid to become a justice collaborator.

Gaia20ehk Reveals Evidence of Planet Collision Resembling Moon's Origin

Astronomers have observed a rare planetary collision around the distant star Gaia20ehk, located 11,000 light-years away. The event, marked by unusual dimming and a sharp increase in infrared light, is believed to mirror the giant impact that formed the Earth-Moon system 4.5 billion years ago. Researchers suggest the resulting debris cloud could eventually cool and form a new planet-moon system.

Anticipating El Nino Godzilla, Government Ensures 10 Months of Food Security

President Prabowo Subianto has summoned the Agriculture Minister to confirm national food reserves are sufficient for up to 10 months, as a precaution against the extreme El Nino Godzilla climate phenomenon. The government reports rice stocks managed by the state have reached 5.2 million tonnes, with total reserves including household and commercial stocks extending coverage until April 2027. Mitigation efforts include strengthening agricultural infrastructure, expanding planting areas in Papua, and stabilising livestock prices.

Youth Urged to Be Adaptive as AI and Digital Marketing Mastery Becomes Increasingly Crucial

The Batam City Youth and Sports Office has held a training programme emphasising the critical need for young people to master digital marketing and artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to equip the younger generation with the skills to build personal branding, seize new economic opportunities, and remain competitive in a rapidly transforming digital landscape. Officials stressed that combining technological proficiency with human creativity is key to developing a superior, adaptive workforce for the future digital economy.

Prabowo Urges State Banks to Move Beyond Profit, Become Engines of the People's Economy

President Prabowo Subianto has called on Indonesia's state-owned banks (Himbara) to prioritise their strategic role in strengthening the national economy over mere profit-seeking. With a combined market capitalisation of approximately Rp1,100 trillion, the banks are expected to expand financing access for MSMEs and corporations alike. The President also noted that falling global oil prices could provide a positive sentiment for Indonesia's economic stability.

De-dollarisation Gains Momentum: Putin Urges ASEAN to Shift to National Currencies

Russian President Vladimir Putin has called on Southeast Asian nations to expand the use of national currencies in bilateral trade to reduce reliance on the US dollar. The appeal was made during the Russia-ASEAN summit in Kazan, where leaders also agreed on a new energy cooperation roadmap and a comprehensive action plan for 2026-2030. The push aligns with Moscow's broader strategy to diversify international payment systems in response to Western sanctions.

DPR Reprimands Natalius Pigai Over Proposed Rp492.9 Billion Budget Increase

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has sharply criticised Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai for unexpectedly proposing an additional budget of Rp492.9 billion during a working meeting. Legislators argued the sudden request violated proper administrative procedures and demanded greater discipline in following the state budget cycle. The proposal has been put on hold pending the submission of comprehensive supporting documentation.

Support for Free Nutritious Meals Programme Swells as Mass Rally Held in Jakarta

Thousands rallied in Central Jakarta to voice support for President Prabowo's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, citing its tangible benefits for millions of schoolchildren and the creation of over 1.2 million jobs. The demonstrators also called for the strengthening of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and urged the president to take a hard line against corruption to ensure state funds serve the people.

Prabowo Approves Rp 100 Trillion Budget for Sumatra Disaster Recovery

President Prabowo Subianto has approved a three-year budget of Rp 100.1 trillion for post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction across Sumatra. The funds will be disbursed through 23 primary and 10 supporting ministries and agencies, with the first tranche of Rp 38.9 trillion allocated for 2026. Regional governments have also received Rp 10.6 trillion in direct transfers to accelerate urgent infrastructure and public facility repairs.

OJK Selects New IDX Board of Directors, Focuses on Strengthening Governance and National Capital Market

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has nominated a new board of directors for the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2026-2030 term. The appointments, which include Jeffrey Hendrik as President Director, are aimed at ensuring continuity in governance and market development. The nominees will be presented for shareholder approval at the IDX's Annual General Meeting on 29 June 2026.

Many People Severely Addicted, Powerless Under AI's Colonisation

A Pew Research study reveals that nearly half of American adults now use AI chatbots, a sharp rise from 2024, with many integrating the technology into daily work and personal life. Despite this growing reliance, a significant majority express concerns about AI's negative societal impact, the pace of development, and the lack of effective government regulation. The findings highlight a paradox where users feel increasingly dependent on AI tools while simultaneously fearing their consequences.

Kuala Kampar Residents Urge Sustainable Maintenance of Canal Barriers to Prevent Forest Fires

Residents of Kuala Kampar in Riau have welcomed the government's construction of canal barriers to prevent peatland fires but are calling for ongoing maintenance and support. They fear the project may become a ceremonial gesture without dedicated personnel and resources for long-term operation. Environment Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat visited the site to inspect the infrastructure, which is designed to maintain water levels and reduce fire risk in the vulnerable peatland area.

House Deputy Speaker to Dialogue with Student Protesters at Parliament Tomorrow

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has confirmed the House of Representatives will receive and engage in dialogue with student demonstrators planning a protest at the parliamentary complex on Friday. The students, led by Trisakti University's BEM alliance, are demanding economic recovery, the removal of incompetent officials, and the restoration of civilian supremacy. Their specific grievances include calls to lower fuel prices, halt state budget waste, and reject the newly passed Police Law.

Coordinating Ministry for Food Promotes Cattle-Palm Oil Integration System to Curb Imports

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Food is advancing the Cattle and Palm Oil Integration System (SISKA) to boost domestic animal protein production and reduce reliance on imports. The scheme utilises palm oil plantation waste as cattle feed, potentially cutting feed costs by 40% and adding up to 2.73 million cattle to the national herd. The initiative aims to address the projected 297,000-tonne beef import figure for 2026 while also diversifying farmer incomes.

BGN Suspends Free Nutritious Meals for Mothers and Toddlers During School Holidays

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has announced that the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) will be suspended for toddlers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers during school holidays. The policy, outlined in Circular Letter No. 12/2026, also removes the daily incentive for meal providers and aims to standardise operational governance and improve resource efficiency. The suspension applies to all school breaks, national holidays, and weekends.

State Estimated to Save Rp3 Trillion as Free Nutritious Meals Paused During School Holidays

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) estimates budget savings exceeding Rp3 trillion by temporarily halting the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during the school holidays. The suspension also allows for a reassessment of beneficiaries, with 76 schools in Java identified as potentially self-sufficient. Funds will be redirected to more vulnerable groups, including those in underdeveloped regions, pregnant women, and toddlers.

Why Gibran Invited Students on a Working Visit to Monitor Free Nutritious Meals and Village Cooperatives

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka included five university students in an official trip to eastern Indonesia to oversee two flagship government programmes. The move is intended to demonstrate transparency and youth collaboration, but analysts have dismissed it as a political gimmick aimed at deflecting criticism from broader student movements.

Ahead of Cot Girek HGU Expiry, State-Owned PTPN IV Plantation Occupied and Looted

A state-owned palm oil plantation in Cot Girek, Aceh, operated by PTPN IV Regional 6, has been forcibly occupied and looted since September 2025 as its land use permit (HGU) nears expiration. The criminal actions have caused losses of over Rp 62.6 billion for the state and severely reduced the incomes of 2,400 workers and their families. Management is appealing for government intervention to restore security and normalise production.

KAMMI Central Board Affirms Legitimate Leadership Under Ahmad Jundi

The Indonesian Muslim Students Action Union (KAMMI) is experiencing internal turmoil, with 141 regional chapters uniting to reject the leadership claims of dismissed former cadre Amri Akbar. The regional leaders have declared Akbar's actions illegal and reaffirmed their sole recognition of Ahmad Jundi Khalifatullah as the legitimate chairman. The organisation has also urged government bodies and media not to engage with any faction operating outside the official leadership.

Famous Bali Temple Closes To Tourists For 5 Days

Bali's iconic Lempuyang Temple, known as the Gates of Heaven, will be closed to tourists for five days to accommodate thousands of pilgrims during the Galungan, Kuningan, and temple anniversary ceremonies. The closure, decided in coordination with local tour guides, aims to ensure the comfort and safety of worshippers. Tourists are advised to seek alternative attractions and expect increased traffic in the area until the temple reopens on Monday, 22nd June.

BMKG records 782 aftershocks as Sulawesi quake death toll hits three

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 782 aftershocks following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck Central Sulawesi, as the confirmed death toll rises to three. The regional government has declared a week-long emergency status for Palu, Sigi, Parigi Moutong, and Poso, while local authorities establish relief posts to assist over 2,100 affected families. The disaster underscores the ongoing seismic risks in the region and the coordinated response between national agencies and local task forces.

Tiger Prawns: A Coastal Mainstay Commodity Penetrating the Global Market

East Kalimantan's tiger prawn exports reached 769.9 tonnes worth Rp173.3 billion in the first five months of 2026, accounting for over half the province's fishery export value. The commodity is prized internationally for its quality, with key markets including Japan, the United States, China, and Malaysia. A dedicated cargo flight from Balikpapan to Wenzhou, China, helps maintain the freshness and high value of these seafood products.

Bali Package Holiday Prices In Flux For Tourists As Dollar Exchange Rates Increase

Bali's tourism industry is grappling with the impact of a weakening rupiah against the US dollar, which makes packages cheaper for foreign tourists but squeezes operator margins due to dollar-denominated costs. ASITA Bali is urging the government to allow tour package prices to be displayed in US dollars, while transactions remain in rupiah, to help businesses manage exchange rate risks. The sector also faces rising operational costs, particularly for fuel, which could lead to higher prices for holidaymakers.

Former TaniHub Group CEO Sentenced to 9 Years for Corruption and Money Laundering

Ivan Arie Sustiawan, former CEO of TaniHub Group, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for corruption and money laundering involving Rp3.26 billion, causing total state losses of 25 million US dollars. The Jakarta Corruption Court also handed down a seven-year sentence to former finance director Edison Tobing for his role in the scheme. Both were fined Rp1 billion and ordered to pay restitution, with the judges citing their failure to support government anti-corruption efforts as an aggravating factor.

Rosan Reveals Prabowo's Directives to State-Owned Bank Commissioners and Directors at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto convened the commissioners and directors of Indonesia's state-owned banks (Himbara) at the Presidential Palace to issue strategic directives. He stressed that these banks must prioritise public benefit over profit, particularly by offering lower interest rates to small and medium enterprises (UMKM) than to large corporations. The meeting underscored the critical role of state banks as the 'lifeblood' of the national economy and instruments for equitable opportunity.

School Bus Driver Questioned After Accident Kills Student in South Jakarta

A female high school student in South Jakarta was killed after falling from her father's motorcycle and being struck by a school bus. The motorcycle reportedly snagged on a low-hanging cable crossing the road, causing the driver to lose control. Police are investigating the bus driver while local authorities have removed the hazardous cable.

Only Halfway Through the Year, Mataram's Abattoir Levy Reaches 75 Per Cent

Levy collections from the abattoir (RPH) and livestock market in Mataram have reached 75 per cent of the annual target by mid-2026. The local government is optimistic about exceeding the Rp 500 million target, having previously achieved up to 150 per cent in past years. This performance contributes to Mataram's broader locally generated revenue, which stood at 19.91 per cent of its annual goal by March.

Airlangga: Prabowo stresses Himbara's role in driving national economy

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the strategic role of the Association of State-Owned Banks (Himbara) in boosting the national economy, particularly through single-window exports and the management of export proceeds. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated the government expects Himbara to act optimally as a development agent. The President convened directors and commissioners of Himbara banks to outline government priorities and the future direction of Indonesia's economy.

Lenovo: Teachers Must Guide Students to Use AI Appropriately

Lenovo has emphasised the crucial role of teachers in ensuring artificial intelligence is used responsibly in education. The technology firm argues that educators must be equipped to guide students on using AI as a learning aid rather than a shortcut. This approach aims to prevent students from bypassing essential skill development by relying entirely on AI-generated answers.

Bakamla ready to build maritime monitoring station in Yogyakarta

Indonesia's Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) has announced plans to construct a new maritime monitoring station in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The facility will feature over-the-horizon radar technology and integrate with Bakamla's national command centres. The initiative is part of a broader National Maritime Security System programme involving 35 stations nationwide.

Ambassador Kartini Appreciates Role of Tokyo Indonesian School

Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir has praised the Tokyo Indonesian School (SIT) for its role in supporting the education of Indonesian children abroad. The appreciation was conveyed during the school's graduation ceremony, where 47 students from kindergarten to high school were declared graduates. The school also reported growing enrolment and student achievements above national averages, reflecting increased community trust.

Foreign inflows into SRBI help stabilize rupiah: BI Governor

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo reported that foreign holdings of Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) have reached Rp238.1 trillion, helping to stabilise the rupiah which strengthened to Rp17,730 per US dollar. The central bank has raised SRBI interest rates and intensified market interventions, including offering hedging incentives to foreign investors, to counter global uncertainty and rising corporate demand for foreign exchange. Warjiyo expressed confidence that the rupiah will continue to stabilise or strengthen, supported by attractive yields and Indonesia's positive economic outlook.

Home Affairs Ministry Pushes for SP2D Online to Strengthen Regional Transaction Digitalisation

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs is accelerating the implementation of the SP2D Online system to enhance the transparency and efficiency of regional financial governance. The initiative, discussed in a coordination meeting with the Financial Services Authority (OJK), Bank Indonesia, and regional development banks, aims to integrate digital fund disbursement into the broader Elektronifikasi Transaksi Pemerintah Daerah (ETPD) framework.

4 Ways to Check Motorcycle Tax

This article outlines methods for Indonesian motorcyclists to verify their vehicle tax obligations. It highlights the SIGNAL mobile application as the most convenient option, enabling both tax checks and payments directly from a smartphone.

BI says non-subsidised fuel price hike could contribute 0.25 percent to inflation

Bank Indonesia estimates the recent increase in non-subsidised fuel prices will add 0.25 percentage points to inflation, though it remains confident the overall rate will stay within the 1.5–3.5 percent target range. The central bank also flagged risks from global commodity prices and the dry season affecting volatile food costs. Coordinated efforts with regional inflation control teams are underway to manage food price stability.

West Jakarta KPKP sterilises hundreds of local male cats to curb population

The West Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Agency (KPKP) has sterilised 200 local male cats in Grogol Petamburan using a minimally invasive castration method. The initiative, conducted with police and cat lover communities, also included a trap-neuter-return programme for stray cats and free rabies consultations. The agency aims to sterilise 2,200 male cats across eight sub-districts by 2026 to prevent overpopulation and rabies transmission.

Jaga Desa app successfully reduces legal cases against village heads, says Jamintel

The Attorney General's Office for Intelligence reports that the Jaga Desa application has significantly reduced the number of village heads facing legal issues, from 525 cases last year to around 70 this year. The app integrates with village financial systems to enable transparent and accountable monitoring of budget use. The initiative also involves village consultative bodies and extends to overseeing other government programmes like the free nutritious meals scheme via QR code reporting.

Trenggalek Social Agency Adds Prospective Students to People's School Through Outreach Programme

The Social Agency of Trenggalek Regency is expanding recruitment for the Integrated People's School (SRT) by conducting outreach to underprivileged families. An eight-year-old boy from Pogalan district showed strong interest during a home visit, prompting officials to add him as a primary-level candidate. The agency is also coordinating with village authorities to update welfare data so the family can be reclassified as a priority recipient.

Sony Reveals 41 Major Figures to Investigators in MBG Corruption Case

Former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, has expanded his disclosure to prosecutors, naming 41 prominent individuals allegedly involved in the corruption scandal surrounding the free nutritious meal programme (MBG). The list grew from 26 to 41 after investigators uncovered chat evidence suggesting officials requested meal distribution points for their affiliates. The Attorney General's Office has already named five suspects in the case, which involves the procurement of goods at inflated prices.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Reactivates Forest and Land Fire Mitigation Desk

The Indonesian government has reactivated its Forest and Land Fire (Karhutla) Coordination Desk to bolster inter-agency coordination ahead of the El Niño phenomenon expected in 2026 and 2027. Coordinating Minister Djamari Chaniago emphasised the need for synergy between central and regional authorities, having identified six high-risk provinces. The move reverses a previous dissolution of the task force and aims to ensure a faster, more effective response through early detection systems and integrated patrols.

Diponegoro University Scientists Create Artificial Coral Reefs from Industrial Waste

Researchers at Diponegoro University (Undip) have developed an innovative artificial reef structure called the Artificial Fish Apartment (AFA) using recycled industrial waste. The technology has been selected for the national Lab2Market 2026 programme, aimed at accelerating the commercialisation of university research. The project promises ecological restoration benefits alongside lower production costs compared to imported alternatives, supporting Indonesia's blue economy goals.

BGN Removes 39,000 Students from Free Nutritious Meal Programme Recipient List, Here's Why

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has removed 76 schools and over 39,000 students in Java from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, deeming them capable of meeting nutritional needs independently. The refocusing effort aims to redirect the budget towards children in greater need, including those in underdeveloped regions and priority groups such as pregnant women and toddlers. The agency is updating its data to ensure the programme is precisely targeted amid government efficiency measures.

Prabowo approves Rp100.1 trillion for Sumatra disaster recovery

President Prabowo has approved a three-year, Rp100.1 trillion budget for post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction in Sumatra, with disbursements phased through 2028. The funds will be distributed across 23 ministries and local governments in Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra to restore public infrastructure and housing. The initiative follows a disaster that claimed over 1,000 lives and aims to expedite recovery efforts already showing 97 percent completion of temporary housing.

South Kalimantan Police Uncover 128 Kilograms of Methamphetamine from Fredy Pratama Network

South Kalimantan Police have seized 128 kilograms of methamphetamine linked to the international drug lord Fredy Pratama, arresting five suspects in a series of raids. The operation, described as the largest bust in six years, prevented the drugs from reaching an estimated 600,000 potential users. Both the police chief and the provincial parliament speaker have pledged special awards for the narcotics team responsible.

Davina Karamoy questioned as witness in Hanania fraud case

Actress Davina Karamoy has been questioned by Jakarta police as a witness in the alleged fraud case involving umrah travel agency Hanania Group. Her lawyer stated she cooperated fully, answering around 30 questions about her role as a paid endorser for the company. Davina said the experience taught her to be more selective in future business collaborations.

Tangerang Metro Police Dismantle Illegal Pharmaceutical Network

Police in Tangerang City have uncovered an illegal network distributing hard drugs, arresting two suspects after a routine traffic stop. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat the illicit pharmaceutical trade, which authorities say poses a serious threat to public health, particularly among young people.

House Deputy Speaker Dasco: DPR Leadership to Meet Student Protesters Tomorrow

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has confirmed that a planned student demonstration at the parliament building on Friday is lawful and that the leadership intends to hold an audience with the protesters. The rally, organised by various student executive bodies from Trisakti University, will demand economic and political recovery, the removal of incompetent officials, and the restoration of civilian supremacy. This action is part of a broader wave of student and civil society protests triggered by the weakening rupiah and rising living costs.

Creative Content and Diversity Tours: A New Way to Shape Youth Character

Universitas Pancasila and Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission X are pioneering a creative, experience-based approach to instil Pancasila values in Generation Z. The initiative moves beyond traditional lectures, using interfaith visits and digital content creation to foster tolerance. The programme aims to equip young Indonesians with a strong national identity while navigating global digital culture.

Baznas Partners with KSMI to Develop Youth and Empower Mustahik

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indonesian Mini Football Committee (KSMI) to use mini football as a tool for character education and community empowerment. The collaboration will include national tournaments, educational aid for the underprivileged, and the establishment of Zakat Collection Units within football organisations. The initiative aims to identify and support talented young athletes from mustahik families through scholarships and coaching.

Sahroni: Cabinet Secretary Teddy a Proactive Official with High Performance

NasDem Party treasurer Ahmad Sahroni has praised Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya as a 'government anchor' who ensures the president's programmes run smoothly. Sahroni stated that Teddy's proactive approach in clarifying public misinformation is part of his responsibility and that his performance is admirable. He also suggested that negative comments directed at Teddy are to be expected given his high level of initiative.

Tens of Trillions of Rupiah for Law Enforcement Must Be Felt by the People Through Performance and Service

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has stressed that proposed budget increases for law enforcement agencies, totalling tens of trillions of rupiah, must deliver tangible benefits to the public. The additional funds requested by the National Police, PPATK, KPK, and BNN for 2027 should translate into improved services, reduced crime rates, and greater transparency. The legislator emphasised that public accountability and measurable outcomes, not just spending figures, are the key benchmarks for approving the budgets.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister urges regional synergy to tackle forest fires and El Niño threat

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has called for strengthened inter-regional cooperation to control forest and land fires ahead of the potential 2026-2027 El Niño phenomenon. He stressed that disaster impacts often cross administrative borders, making integrated prevention and response essential. The ministry is promoting regional collaboration schemes and capacity building for local agencies to enhance preparedness.

Actress Davina Karamoy Admits Receiving Allowance from Hanania Travel in Umrah Fraud Case

Actress Davina Karamoy has testified that she received a travel allowance from PT Khazanah Tamma Internasional, the company at the centre of an alleged Umrah fraud case, but stated the money has been returned. Her lawyer clarified she was contracted only to share daily stories of her pilgrimage, not to promote the business, and denied any investment in the company. The case involves the director of Hanania Travel, who has been named a suspect for allegedly misusing prospective pilgrims' funds, including payments to influencers.

Bahlil Evaluates DMO Coal Price for Power Plants, Here's Why

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has opened the possibility of revising the domestic coal price cap for PLN power plants, which has remained at US$70 per tonne since 2018. The review is driven by rising upstream operational costs and higher stripping ratios for coal producers. The government aims to balance the interests of both the state electricity company and mining businesses to prevent losses on either side.

Former Employee Burgles Fruit Distributor's Home in Serang, Rp 3 Billion Stolen

A former employee in Serang, Banten, has been arrested for stealing Rp 3 billion from his ex-boss's home. The suspect, who harboured a grudge over his salary, broke in through the ceiling while the house was empty. Police have recovered over Rp 1 billion in cash and seized vehicles purchased with the stolen funds.

Red Heifer in Jewish Belief Has Been Born, Is the Ritual for the Destruction of Al-Aqsa Drawing Near?

The Temple Institute in Jerusalem has announced the birth of a red heifer in Galilee, claiming it meets biblical criteria for a purification ritual. The calf's birth within occupied Palestine is seen by some as overcoming previous rabbinical objections to imported heifers, potentially fulfilling a prerequisite for entering the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound. This development has reignited concerns among Palestinian and regional observers about the implications for the holy site.

Relocation Homes Not Yet Built, Landslide Survivors in Pasirlangu Receive Rental Assistance

Survivors of the deadly landslide in Pasirlangu Village, West Bandung Regency, have received Rp 172.8 million in rental assistance as permanent relocation housing remains under discussion. The aid, provided by the local government and alumni donors, will cover nine months of rent for 32 displaced families. Officials pledged continued support and monitoring, with further assistance promised if new homes are not completed within the period.

Foreign inflows into SRBI help stabilize rupiah: BI Governor

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo reported that non-resident holdings of SRBI reached Rp238.1 trillion, or 23.3% of the total, by mid-June 2026, aiding rupiah stability. The central bank has raised SRBI yields, intensified forex interventions, and offered hedging incentives to attract foreign capital and shield the currency from global uncertainty. These measures, alongside positive economic prospects, have helped the rupiah strengthen to Rp17,730 per US dollar.

Dasco says DPR leadership will receive protesting students tomorrow

House of Representatives (DPR) Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has confirmed that the DPR leadership plans to meet with student protesters on Friday. The students have been demonstrating over recent economic conditions, and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka previously met with their representatives earlier in the week. The meetings signal a high-level political engagement with the student-led protests.

Indonesia ranks second in GMTI 2026

Indonesia has climbed to second place in the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2026, up from fifth last year. The ranking places Indonesia just behind Malaysia and alongside Saudi Arabia and Turkey, reflecting its growing appeal as a Muslim-friendly destination. West Java was also recognised as the 'Most Promising Muslim-Friendly Region of the Year'.

National Nutrition Agency Halts Free Nutritious Meal Distribution During School Holidays

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has announced a complete halt to the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during the upcoming school holidays, marking a departure from previous practice. The suspension, effective from 22 June to 13 July 2026, applies to both students and non-student beneficiaries such as toddlers and pregnant women. The agency stated the pause is intended to optimise operational governance, resource efficiency, and programme standardisation.

Indonesia, Uzbekistan Commit to Enhanced Partnership through Women's Empowerment

Indonesia and Uzbekistan have agreed to deepen inclusive trade ties by empowering women entrepreneurs and small businesses. Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri highlighted that women manage 64.5 percent of Indonesian SMEs and proposed cooperation through the BISA Export programme, while Uzbekistan's Deputy Prime Minister Zulaykho Mahkamova offered the Women Business Accelerator initiative. Both nations aim to boost market access for flagship products like tea, halal goods, and modest fashion, and Indonesia invited Uzbek participation in the 41st Trade Expo Indonesia.

Jasa Marga intensifies toll road preservation ahead of school holiday period

State-owned toll road operator PT Jasa Marga is ramping up routine and preventive maintenance across its network to ensure safety and comfort during the upcoming school holiday travel surge. The programme includes gate upgrades, barrier installations, and AI-assisted road scanning to expedite repairs. Most works are scheduled at night to minimise traffic disruption, with real-time updates provided via the Travoy app.

Former BGN Deputy Sony Sonjaya Remains Silent After Nine-Hour Corruption Probe

Sony Sonjaya, former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), refused to comment after a nine-hour interrogation by prosecutors over alleged corruption in the free meal programme (MBG). He was escorted out in a pink detainee vest and handcuffs, having previously applied to become a justice collaborator. His legal team claims he was made a scapegoat and intends to expose other parties involved in the scandal.

UI strengthens education and research ties with Harbin Institute of Technology

Universitas Indonesia (UI) is expanding its international academic partnerships by exploring a strategic collaboration with China's prestigious Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT). The proposed cooperation will focus on joint research in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, data security, and the establishment of a jointly managed digital science centre. The initiative also aims to leverage HIT's membership in the BRICS Network University, following Indonesia's accession to the bloc.

KPK Says Fuad Maktour's Testimony Strengthens Evidence of Criminal Acts by Yaqut and Others

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) stated that testimony from Fuad Hasan Masyhur, Director of PT Makassar Toraja, has reinforced evidence against suspects in the alleged corruption case involving additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The case implicates former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and three others, with state losses estimated at Rp622 billion. Despite the KPK's assertion, Masyhur denied discussing allegations that his operational director bribed the former minister.

Central Sulawesi Police Mobile Brigade Assists Earthquake Victims in Sigi

Personnel from the Central Sulawesi Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) have been deployed to clear debris from damaged homes in Sigi Regency following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake. The unit is also providing clean water and ready-to-eat meals to support the basic needs of affected residents during the post-disaster recovery. The operation underscores Brimob's commitment to humanitarian duties as an integral part of its service to the community.

BPJPH and ESQ Corp Strengthen Organisational Culture to Support National Halal Programme

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has signed a strategic partnership with ESQ Corp to enhance human resources and talent management. The collaboration aims to accelerate the national halal certification programme, which becomes mandatory for many products in October 2026. Officials emphasised that halal is now a global standard for health, cleanliness, and sustainability, requiring strong institutional integrity to implement successfully.

Garongan Village Head in Kulon Progo Named Suspect in Illegal Levy Case

Ngadiman, the village head of Garongan in Kulon Progo, has been officially named a suspect by police for alleged illegal levies related to marriage administration. Investigators believe his actions meet the elements of corruption under the Tipikor Law, though he has not yet been detained. The case emerged after a resident's social media post about being asked for money went viral, prompting a counter-report from the village head.

Ministry outlines five strategic pillars to combat AI-driven disinformation

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has set out five strategic pillars to tackle the growing threat of AI-generated disinformation, which surged 43 percent on social media platforms between 2020 and 2023. The pillars span public digital literacy, ethical AI development, regulatory strengthening, international cooperation, and support for independent journalism. Officials stressed that no single entity can address the problem alone and called for a comprehensive multi-stakeholder response.

Home Affairs Minister: Permanent infrastructure becomes focus of Sumatra recovery

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has announced that post-disaster rehabilitation in Sumatra is shifting towards permanent infrastructure reconstruction. Road and bridge projects, both national and regional, are now the top priority, with central government ready to take over if local authorities cannot deliver. The government has already disbursed Rp10.6 trillion in additional regional transfer funds to support recovery across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.

Dasco Hopes State Secretariat Ministry Will Accommodate Former Hotel Sultan Employees

Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has urged the State Secretariat Ministry to absorb former employees of Hotel Sultan following the government's takeover of the property. The ministry has instructed the Gelora Bung Karno Complex management to register and look after the affected workers, pledging not to sacrifice them. The handover was marred by clashes that left 29 injured and led to 119 arrests.

Government Responds to Reports of Extraordinary General Meeting and PLN Board Reshuffle

Indonesian government officials have addressed speculation about an imminent extraordinary general meeting (RUPSLB) of state electricity firm PLN that could lead to a boardroom reshuffle. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani confirmed a meeting is planned but gave no details on timing or the potential replacement of the president director. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto separately stated his morning meeting with PLN management did not discuss any leadership changes.

Breakfast Remains Untouched Amid Chaotic Hotel Sultan Eviction

The eviction of the former Hotel Sultan in Jakarta turned chaotic as a group of protesters threw stones and wood at officers. Despite the unrest, the court-ordered execution proceeded, with police securing the lobby and escorting remaining guests out. Notably, the hotel's breakfast buffet remained fully laid out and largely untouched well past midday.

OJK Appoints IDX Board of Directors for 2026-2030, Jeffrey Hendrik Becomes Definitive President Director

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has finalised the slate of directors for the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2026-2030 term, with Jeffrey Hendrik confirmed as the definitive President Director. The seven nominees, including new appointments for key roles such as IT and Risk Management, will be submitted for shareholder approval at the IDX's Annual General Meeting on 29 June 2026. The selection process adhered to OJK regulations and a fit-and-proper test conducted by a dedicated committee.

Danantara CEO and Airlangga Respond to PLN Extraordinary Shareholders Meeting Rumours

Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani confirmed there are plans for an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders (RUPSLB) at state electricity firm PLN, but declined to specify the timing or whether a change of directors is on the agenda. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto separately stated that a morning meeting with PLN did not discuss replacing the managing director.

Sony Sonjaya remains silent after 9-hour questioning by Attorney General's Office

Former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, refused to comment after being interrogated for nine hours by the Attorney General's Office over alleged corruption in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He is one of five suspects in the case, which involves the mismanagement of the programme's governance for 2025-2026. Sonjaya has previously applied to become a justice collaborator, claiming he was pressured by other parties regarding the allocation of kitchen service points.

Cirebon's Online Junior High School Admissions See Parents Still Flocking to Schools for Help

Despite Cirebon's new online junior high school admission system (SPMB) being fully digital, many parents are visiting target schools in person to avoid registration errors. The local education agency has set up assistance services at schools and its office to support parents with varying digital literacy levels, while maintaining that all applications must be submitted online.

BI Rate Hike Proves Central Bank's Seriousness in Taming the US Dollar

Bank Indonesia has raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.75% in an aggressive move to stabilise the rupiah. The decision, coupled with a cap on US dollar purchases, signals a hawkish and pre-emptive stance despite the US Federal Reserve holding its rates steady. An economist noted the policy is an extraordinary but temporary measure requiring calm from stakeholders and supportive fiscal coordination.

National Nutrition Agency to Recruit Nutritionists and Health Experts for 7 Advisory Board Seats

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) plans to fill seven vacant positions on its Advisory Board with experts in nutrition and public health. The board, mandated by the agency's founding regulations, will provide strategic recommendations to ensure the Free Nutritious Meals programme is effectively targeted. The move aims to strengthen governance and policy quality for the national nutrition initiative.

OJK Urges New IDX Directors to Deliver Best Performance for Indonesian Capital Market

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has called on the newly elected board of directors of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2026-2030 term to prioritise strong governance and integrity reforms. The regulator emphasised the need for continuity in market integrity initiatives to foster a more advanced capital market. The new board, led by Jeffrey Hendrik as President Director, will be formally approved at the IDX's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on 29 June.

DPR Member: Additional Law Enforcement Budget Must Benefit the People

A member of House Commission III has stressed that any proposed budget increases for law enforcement agencies must deliver tangible benefits to the public. The call comes as the National Police, PPATK, KPK, and BNN have requested substantial additional funds for 2027. The legislator emphasised that spending must be measured by real-world impact, such as reduced crime rates and faster public service, alongside greater transparency and accountability.

Indonesia and Germany Discuss Expanding Migrant Worker Placements into New Sectors

Indonesia and Germany are exploring the expansion of Indonesian migrant worker placements beyond the healthcare sector to meet Germany's demand for skilled labour. The discussions, held between the Indonesian Deputy Minister for Migrant Worker Protection and GIZ, also covered diversifying placement sectors and supporting vocational programmes like SMK Go Global. Language proficiency requirements remain a key challenge, with both sides agreeing to strengthen coordination to identify sectors with the greatest near-term potential.

Wärtsilä Tests 100% Hydrogen Engine Connected to Spain's National Grid

Finnish technology group Wärtsilä has commenced validation of what it claims is the world's first large-scale pure hydrogen engine supplying power to a national grid, in Bermeo, Spain. The test aims to demonstrate that hydrogen-ready engines can provide flexible, dispatchable power to support renewable-dominated energy systems. The company also highlighted a previous hydrogen blending test in Indonesia as evidence of the technology's readiness for commercial deployment.

Observer: US-Iran MoU Gives Major Advantage to Tehran, Israel Cornered

A Middle East analyst argues the latest US-Iran memorandum of understanding significantly benefits Tehran, particularly by recognising its role in controlling the Strait of Hormuz. The deal places Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a difficult position, as defying Washington carries substantial political risk. With depleted military resources, Israel is seen as unable to act unilaterally against Iran, and the analyst suggests a return to a two-state solution is its only rational path out of regional isolation.

BGN to Streamline Budget, Scrap Ineffective Procurement

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is conducting a comprehensive review of its 2025 expenditures to improve budget efficiency. The agency will not repeat procurements deemed to have low impact on the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Some of BGN's budget has also been blocked by the Ministry of Finance, reducing its effective spending ceiling from the initial allocation.

BMKG: Jambi Province Expected to See Rain Throughout the Coming Week

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecast continued rainfall across Jambi Province for the next week, driven by supportive atmospheric conditions. Officials clarified the current rain is a natural phenomenon and unrelated to any prior government weather modification operations. Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and take anticipatory measures against potential extreme weather impacts.

Sahroni Urges Residents to Report Crime as Brawls Surge in North and West Jakarta

Deputy Chairman of the House Commission III, Ahmad Sahroni, has instructed local police chiefs to intensify security measures amid a rise in street brawls and crime in North and West Jakarta. During a community outreach event, he urged residents to actively report criminal activities directly to his social media for swift coordination with law enforcement. The event also saw the distribution of 2,000 Smart Indonesia Program (PIP) cards to eligible students in the area.

National Library Proposes Budget Increase to Strengthen Literacy Improvement

The National Library of Indonesia (Perpusnas) has requested an additional Rp357.77 billion in funding from the House of Representatives to sustain national literacy programmes. The proposed increase aims to restore the institution's funding capacity for priority initiatives, including inclusive library transformation and digital service enhancement. Parliamentary Commission X has expressed collective support, deeming the current indicative budget ceiling for 2027 insufficient to meet national literacy targets.

Bulog accelerates food aid distribution in Gorontalo

State logistics agency Bulog is fast-tracking the distribution of food aid in Gorontalo province, with over 85 percent of the 170,000 beneficiaries already reached. The programme, a presidential priority, provides rice and cooking oil to ease household expenses and maintain access to staple foods. Bulog is coordinating with local governments to ensure timely, accountable delivery across all regions.

UP Rector Reminds That Pancasila Values Should Be Implemented, Not Just Memorised

Universitas Pancasila's rector has stressed that the nation's philosophical principles must be put into practice rather than merely recited. He cited the university's six houses of worship as proof of its commitment to fostering a tolerant and diverse campus environment. The institution is also engaging Gen-Z students through workshops and video competitions to popularise Pancasila values.

Presidential Staff Office Reviews Free Health Check Programme for Students in North Jakarta

Head of the Presidential Staff Office, Dudung Abdurachman, visited schools in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, to oversee the Free Health Check (CKG) programme, a key government priority. The initiative aims to detect health issues early in schoolchildren to support their development and prepare them for the 'Golden Indonesia 2045' vision. Recent screenings revealed no suspected tuberculosis cases, while two students flagged for hepatitis B have been referred for treatment.

Situbondo sugarcane land expansion reaches 598 hectares

Situbondo Regency in East Java has expanded its sugarcane planting area by 598 hectares, surpassing the Agriculture Ministry's target of 350 hectares. The expansion is part of a national drive to accelerate sugar self-sufficiency, with the regency also progressing on a ratoon replacement programme. Local officials are optimistic about contributing significantly to the national sugar production target set by President Prabowo Subianto.

Unhas and MPR RI Collaborate to Strengthen National Values

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) and the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) of Indonesia have signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance the role of academics in developing national values and constitutional awareness. The partnership aims to leverage the university's academic capacity to provide constructive input on statehood issues. Both institutions plan to develop collaborative programmes including seminars, research, and constitutional literacy initiatives for the public.

Former Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Achmad Sutjipto Passes Away

Admiral (Ret.) Achmad Sutjipto, former Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, has died at the age of 81 in Jakarta. Legislators and military colleagues have paid tribute to his lifelong dedication, professionalism, and significant contribution to national defence. He will be laid to rest at the Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery.

Chronology of the Hotel Sultan Dispute: From State Project to Eviction

The eviction of the Hotel Sultan complex by the Central Jakarta District Court marks the latest chapter in a land dispute spanning over two decades. The conflict pits the Indonesian government against PT Indobuildco over the status of land in the Gelora Bung Karno complex, with the state asserting its ownership after the company's building rights expired. The case traces its origins to a 1970s hotel project initiated with state support, which later became mired in questions over whether the land was a state asset or privately controlled.

Trump Accused of Being Outmanoeuvred by Iran After Signing MoU

President Donald Trump's memorandum of understanding with Iran, intended to end Middle East conflict, has triggered a fierce domestic backlash. US media across the political spectrum, including Fox News and the Wall Street Journal, argue the deal grants Tehran massive financial concessions without achieving pre-war objectives. Critics claim the agreement, which facilitates USD 300 billion in reconstruction funds, rewards Iran before any full dismantling of its nuclear programme.

Armed Robbery in Menteng: Victim Held Captive and Stabbed, Now in Critical Condition

A violent armed robbery occurred in the elite Menteng area of Central Jakarta, leaving one victim critically injured with seven stab wounds. Two suspects reportedly entered a residence, attacked a guest, and stole gold belonging to the homeowner. Police are currently investigating the incident and searching for the perpetrators.

Hotel Sultan Execution: Dasco Vows to Coordinate Employee Fate with Government

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has pledged to coordinate with the State Secretariat Ministry to safeguard the jobs of former Hotel Sultan employees following the government's eviction of the site. The government executed the land clearance on Thursday to reclaim the Gelora Bung Karno complex as a state asset after 50 years of private management. Officials have assured workers they will not be abandoned and will be involved in the area's future operations.

KSP Dudung Intervenes in Polemic Over 15 Containers of PT PMM Ilmenite, What's the Outcome?

Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman convened a meeting with stakeholders to address the controversy surrounding 15 containers of ilmenite mineral owned by PT Putra Mineral Mandiri (PMM). The company's legal counsel clarified that the export activities were lawful and denied allegations of smuggling radioactive materials or rare earth metals. Customs and Sucofindo confirmed that inspection procedures were properly followed, while the KSP pledged to review all input before issuing further recommendations.

Indonesia Ready to Host MotoGP Mandalika 2026, Targeting Greater Economic Impact

Indonesia is preparing to host the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia 2026 at the Mandalika International Circuit, marking the fifth consecutive year of the event. The government and organisers are targeting an economic impact exceeding the Rp4.7 trillion generated by the previous edition, leveraging the race as a key driver for national sport tourism. Officials highlighted the event's role in promoting Indonesian culture and attracting investment to the special economic zone.

BMKG Warns of Forest and Land Fires in South Papua Due to Prolonged El Niño Dry Season

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for potential forest and land fires in South Papua Province. The heightened risk is attributed to an extended dry season exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon, which has significantly reduced rainfall. Authorities are urging the public to avoid open burning and advising farmers to adapt by planting drought-resistant crops.

Central Kalimantan Provincial Government Achieves Unqualified Opinion for 12th Consecutive Year

The Central Kalimantan Provincial Government has received an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) from the Indonesian Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) for its 2025 fiscal year financial report, marking the 12th consecutive year of achieving the highest audit rating. Governor Agustiar Sabran attributed the success to improved financial governance and cross-departmental collaboration, while emphasising that the WTP status is not the ultimate goal. The BPK noted remaining weaknesses, particularly in the management of official residences and related levy collections, and has recommended integrated asset management and optimised revenue collection.

Health Minister: UHN Foundation's Type A Hospital to Strengthen Indonesian Healthcare Services

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has endorsed the HKBP Nommensen University Foundation's plan to build a Type A teaching hospital in Medan, aiming to reduce the outflow of Indonesian patients seeking treatment abroad. The facility is intended to integrate healthcare delivery, medical education, and research, with the Deputy Health Minister calling it a 'complete package' given the university's existing medical faculty. The initiative is framed as a concrete step to bolster national health programmes and curb dependency on neighbouring countries like Malaysia and Singapore for medical care.

Fuad Responds to Allegations Subordinate Gave Hajj Quota Money to Yaqut

Fuad Hasan Masyhur, CEO of PT Makassar Toraja, denied discussing with KPK investigators allegations that his operations director gave money to former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas for additional hajj quotas. He also claimed ignorance about the status of his subordinate as a suspect and alleged illicit funds flowing to a House of Representatives special committee. The KPK is preparing to transfer the case files of four suspects, including Yaqut, to the Corruption Court, with state losses estimated at Rp622 billion.

KAKI, IICD, and BEI Encourage Ownership Transparency to Strengthen Investor Confidence

Indonesian regulators and business groups are pushing for greater corporate ownership transparency, including disclosure of ultimate beneficial owners, to bolster capital market integrity. The Indonesia Stock Exchange has already implemented new reporting rules requiring details on controlling shareholders and lowering the publication threshold to 1 percent ownership. Stakeholders argue that such transparency is essential for building investor trust and aligning Indonesia's governance standards with international best practices.

Coordinating Minister Yusril Pledges to Convey BEM SI Aspirations to President Prabowo

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has committed to formally reporting the aspirations of the All-Indonesia Student Executive Board (BEM SI) to President Prabowo Subianto following an audience in Jakarta. The students clarified that their demand regarding the Free Nutritious Meals programme is for improved operational governance rather than its termination, acknowledging its public benefits. The government affirmed its openness to constructive, research-based criticism to refine national policy.

KPK Admits Passivity in MBG Investigation Due to Prior Coercive Measures by Attorney General's Office

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has clarified that its investigation into alleged corruption within the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is temporarily suspended, not permanently halted. The suspension follows the Attorney General's Office's prior arrest and naming of three former BGN officials as suspects in June 2026. The KPK stated it paused its activities because the case had reached a stage requiring coercive legal action by another law enforcement agency.

Klungkung Residents' Ngodak Sesuhunan Procession Becomes Impromptu Spectacle for Tourists in Ubud

Hundreds of residents from Desa Adat Pau in Klungkung, Bali, completed a sacred ritual to restore 13 holy symbols at Puri Agung Ubud, drawing a crowd of surprised tourists. The procession, which coincided with the auspicious day of Umanis Galungan, featured traditional gamelan music and offerings. The newly restored barong, rangda, and other effigies will be returned to Klungkung for a further ceremony on 20 June 2026.

Daop 6 Prepares Four Extra Trains and Fare Discounts for School Holidays

PT KAI Daop 6 Yogyakarta is adding four extra train services and offering a 30 per cent fare discount to manage the surge in travel during the June-July 2026 school holiday period. The additional trains will serve routes between Solo, Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Surabaya, while the government-backed discount applies to 30 commercial economy-class journeys. The initiative aims to provide flexible travel options and stimulate regional economic growth during the long holiday.

Social Affairs Minister targets 400,000 Sekolah Rakyat students by 2029

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has set a target of enrolling over 400,000 students in the Sekolah Rakyat programme by 2029, as part of efforts to expand educational access for poor and vulnerable families. The initiative, which currently serves more than 45,000 students, combines schooling with comprehensive family empowerment, including housing improvements and social assistance. The government aims for graduates to pursue higher education or skilled employment to lift their families out of poverty.

Said Affirms PDIP's Position as Government Balancing Party

PDI-Perjuangan has clarified its stance as a 'balancing party' rather than a formal opposition, a decision made during its national working meeting. The party pledges to objectively support government policies that benefit the people until 2029, while offering constructive criticism when performance falls short. President Prabowo reportedly appreciates this approach, viewing it as a more honest form of political friendship.

Andre Rosiade Leads House Commission VI Visit to PHR, Overseeing 400,000 Barrel per Day Target

House Commission VI visited Pertamina Hulu Rokan (PHR) in Riau to assess efforts to boost national oil production towards energy self-sufficiency. The delegation observed that technological innovations, including chemical injection, are yielding positive results, with the Minas field projected to add 2,000 barrels per day by end-2026. The commission pledged full support for PHR's roadmap to restore the Rokan Block's output to 400,000 barrels per day by 2034.

Deputy Food Minister Says Chilli Prices Change Every Hour, Here's the Solution

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has highlighted extreme volatility in chilli prices, which can fluctuate hourly, and is pushing for stronger supply chain management and information systems. The government is expanding production centres, including a 20-hectare development in South Kalimantan, to stabilise prices and curb food inflation. Chilli prices nationally rose 11.86% in mid-June 2026, affecting nearly 80% of Indonesia's regions.

APWNU Expands Cooperation, Prepares National Programmes

The Nusantara Citizens Mining Association (APWNU) has announced new strategic partnerships and a series of national programmes set to launch in 2026. The initiatives, unveiled during its second anniversary, include a digital library, a book publication, and a community-based digital economy token. The organisation aims to strengthen economic empowerment and support national development through enhanced collaboration.

Indef: KDMP Manager Commitment Better Secured Through Employment Contracts

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has endorsed the cancellation of a Rp100 million penalty for prospective managers of the state-backed village cooperatives programme, arguing that professional contracts and incentives are more effective. The previous penalty clause had prompted some selected candidates to withdraw, raising concerns about deterring top talent. Indef stressed that the success of the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) initiative hinges on robust governance, transparent recruitment, and continuous capacity building rather than punitive measures.

MBG Partners Protest Holiday Policy Without Rp 6 Million Daily Incentive, Here's BGN's Response

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has defended its decision to halt the distribution of free nutritious meals and suspend daily incentives of Rp 6 million to service units during school holidays, citing budget efficiency. The policy, based on Circular Letter No. 12 of 2026, has drawn criticism from programme partners, but the agency argues that 'no service, no pay' is a fair principle. BGN also acknowledged it is revising previous technical guidelines that may have been influenced by conflicts of interest.

Former Bima Kota Police Chief Didik Putra Kuncoro Detained at Brimob Headquarters

The West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor's Office has detained former Bima Kota Police Chief Didik Putra Kuncoro in a narcotics trafficking case, placing him at the Brimob headquarters for security reasons. Prosecutors also received Rp2.8 billion in cash evidence from two drug dealers, though they clarified this relates to the narcotics case rather than a separate money laundering investigation still underway. Didik faces multiple charges under Indonesia's narcotics law, including abuse of authority, bringing the total number of suspects in the case to ten.

After Electric Motorcycles, Alleged CCTV Corruption Emerges in Free Nutritious Meal Programme

A lawyer for a deputy chief of the National Nutrition Agency has alleged irregularities in a CCTV and fingerprint system procurement worth over Rp 300 billion for the Free Nutritious Meal Programme. The contract, arranged before his client's tenure, reportedly covered 5,000 service units, but the vendor was unable to demonstrate any completed installations upon verification. The official reportedly described the situation as a 'total loss', suggesting the project may have been fictitious.

BI: Pertamax Price Hike Could Add 0.25 Percent to Inflation

Bank Indonesia has warned that the recent increase in the price of non-subsidised Pertamax fuel could contribute an additional 0.25 percent to national inflation in 2026. The central bank is also monitoring global energy price fluctuations and their impact on domestic administered prices. Despite these pressures, the impact of rising fertiliser costs remains minimal due to sufficient domestic production.

Dasco to Coordinate with State Secretariat Ministry on Fate of Hotel Sultan Employees

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has pledged to coordinate with the State Secretariat Ministry regarding the welfare of former Hotel Sultan employees following a court-ordered eviction. The government executed the land clearance on Thursday, reclaiming the state asset within the Gelora Bung Karno complex after nearly 50 years of use by PT Indobuildco. Officials have assured that affected workers will be registered and offered opportunities to continue working within the GBK area.

Baznas Opens Free Health Services for Parigi Moutong Residents

The National Alms Agency (Baznas) has launched free post-earthquake health services in Parigi Moutong, Central Sulawesi, utilising zakat funds for emergency medical care. The initiative treated 171 affected residents for conditions such as respiratory infections and hypertension, with a focus on educating the elderly and those with comorbidities. Baznas currently operates 38 Rumah Sehat clinics nationwide, including two mobile boat services in North Sulawesi.

Pekanbaru City Government Receives Qualified Opinion Due to Legacy Administrative Burdens

The Pekanbaru City Government received a Qualified Opinion (WDP) from the Supreme Audit Agency for its 2025 financial report, a result attributed to unresolved administrative issues inherited from previous administrations. Mayor Agung Nugroho cited legal cases involving former officials, including past arrests by the Corruption Eradication Commission, as key obstacles preventing an Unqualified Opinion. The city is committed to resolving these legacy issues, particularly concerning uncollectible receivables, to achieve a clean audit opinion in the future.

ITDC confirms Mandalika Circuit meets FIM standards ahead of MotoGP 2026

The InJourney Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) is undertaking extensive preparations to ensure the 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia meets international standards set by Dorna Sports and the FIM. The event, scheduled for 9–11 October 2026 at the Mandalika International Circuit, is viewed as a critical opportunity to showcase Indonesia's capacity to host world-class sporting events. ITDC aims to leverage the race to promote Indonesia as a global sport tourism destination while highlighting its natural beauty and culture.

Vice President Gibran Urges MBG Programme Prioritisation in 3T Regions

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has called for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to be prioritised in Indonesia's underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions to ensure it reaches those most in need. Speaking during a visit to a school in Ende, East Nusa Tenggara, he acknowledged existing governance challenges and pledged to use the school holiday period for a comprehensive evaluation. The Vice President also stressed the importance of community involvement and reiterated the government's shift towards Indonesia-centric development.

Dasco Meets OJK and IDX Chiefs to Discuss Stock Exchange Governance Reform

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, held a closed-door meeting with the new leadership of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) to coordinate improvements in market governance. The discussions focused on enhancing the supervisory system and establishing a better regulatory framework for the exchange. The meeting signals a concerted legislative and regulatory push to strengthen the integrity of Indonesia's capital market.

Deputy Minister of Food Encourages HSS Chilli Hub to Curb South Kalimantan Inflation

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has highlighted the strategic role of Hulu Sungai Selatan Regency in stabilising chilli supplies and prices to control inflation in South Kalimantan. The minister made the remarks during a harvest visit to a farming group in Tawia Village, which is part of a national food, energy, and water self-sufficiency programme. The government plans to expand chilli cultivation in the area to 20 hectares to ensure sustainable supply and protect both farmers and consumers from price volatility.

Sigi BPBD records three fatalities from earthquake

The death toll from the earthquake in Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, has risen to three, with two additional victims identified from Palolo and Nokilalaki districts. One victim had a pre-existing heart condition and fell during the tremor, while the other suffered from a tumour that was aggravated by the impact. Over 6,400 residents have been affected, with significant damage reported to 1,652 homes and 84 public facilities across 38 villages.

Jeffrey Hendrik ready to continue Indonesia's capital market reform

Jeffrey Hendrik, the newly appointed President Director of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2026–2030 period, has pledged to continue the capital market reform agenda initiated in recent months. He emphasised commitments to enhancing transparency, integrity, and governance while deepening the market from both the demand and supply sides. The new board of directors, approved by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and pending shareholder ratification, aims to elevate the IDX to a world-class exchange on par with those in advanced economies.

South Jakarta City Government Enhances Teacher Competency Through Functional Training

The South Jakarta City Government is conducting functional teacher training in 2026 to improve educator professionalism and career development. Officials emphasised that teachers are the vanguard of human resource quality and must adapt to technological and curricular changes. The programme aims to strengthen understanding of credit score requirements and continuous professional development.

Davina Karamoy Questioned for Six Hours, Admits Returning Allowance from Hanania Travel

Actress Davina Karamoy underwent a six-hour police examination in Jakarta regarding the Hanania Travel umrah fraud case. She confirmed receiving a travel allowance but stated it has been returned, while her lawyer denied any promotional or investment involvement. The case has also seen other public figures questioned as the travel agency's boss faces charges of fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering.

Ahead of MSCI Announcement, Exchange Boss Stresses Transparency

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has urged listed companies to enhance transparency by thoroughly reviewing their ownership structures and clearly disclosing ultimate beneficial owners. This push aligns with broader capital market reforms aimed at building investor trust and market credibility. The call comes as the market awaits the MSCI Global Market Accessibility Review, which could significantly impact Indonesia's equity market classification and passive fund flows.

Yogyakarta Regional Government Strengthens Concrete Actions to Face Climate Change Threats

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) government is rallying all elements of society to intensify tangible environmental protection efforts amidst escalating climate change threats. Guided by the Javanese philosophy of Hamemayu Hayuning Bawana, officials urged collective action from households to communities, including waste reduction, tree planting, and energy conservation. The initiative aligns with Indonesia's Nationally Determined Contribution targets under the Paris Agreement.

West Bandung Offers Local Tax Fine Amnesty, PHRI Urges Ongoing Support

The West Bandung Regency has introduced an administrative penalty amnesty for local taxes, including hospitality and entertainment levies, running from 9 June to 31 August 2026. The Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) welcomed the move but stressed it must be accompanied by continuous guidance, as the tourism sector in Lembang is currently sluggish. Hotel occupancy rates reportedly fell from 48% to 41% year-on-year for the January–May period, which will likely reduce locally generated revenue.

BPKN to Open Registration for Raksa Nugraha Award 2026

Indonesia's National Consumer Protection Agency (BPKN) will soon open registration for the Raksa Nugraha Award 2026, honouring entities that significantly strengthen consumer protection. The award targets individuals, businesses, government agencies, and media to promote a fair and responsible trade ecosystem. Registration runs from 22 June to 21 August 2026, with the ceremony set for November at JIExpo Kemayoran.

East Java Government Holds Career Day 2026 with 680 Vacancies, 190 Reserved for Disabled

The East Java provincial government organised a Career Day 2026 in Sidoarjo, offering 680 job vacancies across 139 positions, with 190 specifically allocated for people with disabilities. The initiative aims to reduce the open unemployment rate among fresh graduates and bridge the communication gap between job seekers and industry. The event attracted 1,282 registered participants, exceeding the initial target, and involved 20 companies from various sectors.

NTB Religious Affairs Ministry Halts New Islamic Boarding School Permits for Quality Review

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs has imposed a moratorium on new Islamic boarding school (ponpes) permits to focus on evaluating the quality of existing institutions. The policy, coordinated with the central ministry, aims to strengthen current schools rather than increase their number. Officials clarified the move is not a direct response to recent abuse cases but part of a broader effort to improve educational standards and oversight.

BPS: Economic Census Not for Raising Taxes

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has launched the 2026 Economic Census, assuring the public that the data collected will remain confidential and will not be used to increase taxes. The census aims to comprehensively map all economic activities, including those by businesses and households using digital platforms. Officials stated the high-quality data will guide government programmes, infrastructure development, and regional policies tailored to local economic characteristics.

BPS: Central Java Businesses Contribute 15.25 Per Cent to National Total

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) has reported that Central Java accounts for 15.25 per cent of all business units nationwide, underscoring the province's strategic economic role. The upcoming 2026 Economic Census will, for the first time, include agricultural and household-based digital enterprises to capture a more complete picture of economic activity. Governor Ahmad Luthfi emphasised that accurate census data will be crucial for mapping regional economic potential and formulating coherent development policies.

Central Sulawesi Earthquake: 782 Aftershocks Recorded, Emergency Response Status Declared

A total of 782 aftershocks have rattled Central Sulawesi following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake, with the strongest reaching 5.3. Governor Anwar Hafid has declared a 17-day emergency response status covering Sigi Regency, the worst-hit area where three fatalities were confirmed. Authorities have established command posts, health facilities, and public kitchens while urging residents to rely on official information channels.

National Nutrition Agency Prepares MBG Kitchen Clustering, 3T Regions to Receive Special Treatment

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is developing a clustering scheme for its Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme kitchens to better match local conditions, particularly in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions. The current uniform operational model and flat daily incentive of Rp 6 million per kitchen are deemed unfair given the varying numbers of beneficiaries served. The agency is using the school holiday period to evaluate kitchen management, update beneficiary data, and design more efficient operational schemes before the new academic year.

NTB High Prosecutor's Office Places Former Bima Kota Police Chief in Brimob Custody

The Nusa Tenggara Barat High Prosecutor's Office has transferred the detention of former Bima Kota Police Chief Didik Putra Kuncoro to a Brimob battalion headquarters, citing security concerns. Kuncoro is a suspect in a narcotics case involving 10 individuals, including two police officials. The case also involves the seizure of Rp2.8 billion in cash from two alleged drug dealers.

Takeover of Hotel Sultan Buildings and Business Deemed 'Arbitrary'

PT Indobuildco has condemned the State Secretariat's takeover of Hotel Sultan's buildings and business operations as an arbitrary act of power, claiming the dispute concerns land rights rather than building ownership. The company argues the move creates legal uncertainty for investment in Indonesia, while police maintain the court-ordered eviction must be respected. The execution of the eviction on 18 June 2026 resulted in 31 injuries and 119 detentions.

Gerindra Women's Wing Distributes Hundreds of Rice Packages to Bogor Residents

Endang Setyawati Thohari, a member of the House of Representatives from the Gerindra Party, has distributed hundreds of 5-kilogram rice packages to low-income families in Bogor City. The initiative targeted daily labourers and informal sector workers in densely populated areas, aiming to ease the burden of rising living costs. The legislator emphasised that the aid reflects a spirit of mutual cooperation and a commitment to ensuring vulnerable households have access to basic food supplies.

Parents Flock to West Jakarta SPMB Post Over Registration Hurdles

Parents of prospective students crowded a registration help post in West Jakarta to report difficulties with the new Student Admission Selection (SPMB) system, primarily involving account access and inactive population registry numbers (NIK) after moving domicile. The local education sub-department confirmed the process follows the governor's technical guidelines and noted over 500 complaints have been received across various service channels. The issue highlights the challenges families face with the strict domicile-based enrolment rules, forcing some to consider private schooling.

Analyst says cancellation of KDMP manager penalty was the right move

A public policy analyst has welcomed the government's decision to scrap a Rp100 million penalty for prospective managers of the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (KDMP) who resign, arguing the clause deterred qualified candidates. The National Selection Committee has formally revoked the financial sanction and reopened applications for those who previously withdrew due to the provision.

Yogyakarta Mayor Says Little Aresha Victims Suffer Serious Mental Disorders

Yogyakarta Mayor Hasto Wardoyo has revealed that some children affected by the alleged abuse case at the Little Aresha daycare are suffering from serious mental disorders and developmental delays. The city administration is coordinating with Dr Sardjito General Hospital and the College of Psychology to provide ongoing health and psychological monitoring for 63 children. The municipal government is also seeking approval from the local parliament to extend financial support for the victims' childcare costs beyond the initial one-month period.

BPS Targets Online Businesses: We Will Visit Every House

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) will conduct a door-to-door census for the 2026 Economic Census to capture previously undetected online businesses operating from private homes. The initiative, which includes using AI to verify business classification codes, aims to improve data quality after trials revealed significant unreported online commerce, including a student earning millions of rupiah monthly from online thrift sales.

US and Iran Sign Peace Memorandum of Understanding

Iran has announced the completion of a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding with the United States aimed at ending hostilities, following the signing of the agreement by both nations' presidents. The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated that US commitments to lift its naval blockade have effectively commenced after urgent talks triggered by Israeli strikes on southern Beirut and Iranian retaliation threats.

BI Tasikmalaya Pushes Southern West Java as New Economic Growth Engine

Bank Indonesia's Tasikmalaya office and the West Java Economic Society are collaborating to transform the southern corridor of West Java into a new economic growth engine. A strategic forum in Priangan Timur saw stakeholders agree to strengthen regional strengths and sectoral integration, with key infrastructure projects like toll roads and solar power plants highlighted as catalysts. The initiative aims to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy through adaptive policy and data-driven monitoring.

Annual AI Budgets Exhausted in Just Two Months: Here's Why

The soaring cost of artificial intelligence adoption is forcing companies to exhaust annual AI budgets within months, driven by rising token prices and aggressive usage. Executives from OpenAI and Glean warn that each new, more advanced AI model costs roughly double per token, creating an unsustainable trend. This financial pressure is compelling firms to choose between investing in AI computation or their human workforce, with some startups already spending more on AI tokens than on employee salaries.

KLH: 350 Peatland-Conscious Independent Villages Deliver Economic Benefits to Communities

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment has reported that 350 active Peatland-Conscious Independent Villages (DMPG) are generating economic benefits through sustainable plantation management. The programme combines peatland rewetting and revegetation with community economic revitalisation, including support for commodities like pineapples and livestock farming. Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat also highlighted the need for 540,000 canal blocks nationwide to reduce forest and land fires to near zero, with only 10 percent built so far.

Appearance of Rp 2.8 Billion in Cash in Drug Case of Former Bima City Police Chief

Former Bima City Police Chief Didik Putra Kuncoro has been handed over to prosecutors along with evidence including Rp 2.8 billion in cash linked to a narcotics trafficking case. The money, packed in plastic bundles, was allegedly received from two drug dealers. The case emerged from a wider investigation that also implicated other former police officers in the network.

KP2MI Signs MoU with Banten, Untirta Alumni, and Krakatau Steel to Boost Migrant Worker Capacity

The Ministry of Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection (KP2MI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Banten provincial government, the University of Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa alumni association, and state-owned steelmaker PT Krakatau Steel. The agreement aims to enhance the skills and protection of Indonesian migrant workers, particularly in preparation for formal sector employment abroad. The initiative supports President Prabowo Subianto's 'SMK Go Global' programme, which targets deploying 500,000 skilled workers overseas by 2029.

Electric Motorcycles from Dadan Era Will Not Be 'Discarded', BGN: We Will Utilise Them Maximally

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has stated it will fully utilise all assets procured in 2025, including electric motorcycles implicated in a corruption case involving its former head Dadan Hindayana. Deputy Head Agustina Arumsari confirmed the agency is reviewing all past expenditures and will not duplicate similar spending in 2026. The motorcycles, currently held as evidence by prosecutors, will be deployed to support the Free Nutritious Meals programme once legal processes conclude.

KPK Confirms MBG Corruption Investigation Not Permanently Halted

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has clarified that its investigation into alleged corruption within the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has only been temporarily suspended, not permanently stopped. The suspension is due to the case reaching a stage requiring enforcement actions by other legal authorities, specifically the Attorney General's Office, which has already named suspects. The probe involves allegations of appointing unqualified foundations linked to the suspects and inflating procurement prices, resulting in state financial losses.

Rupiah Weakness: House Commission XI Member Stresses Importance of Cross-Sector Policy Coordination

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has warned that the rupiah's depreciation, which hit a historic low of Rp 18,100 per US dollar, requires serious cross-sector policy coordination. Tommy Kurniawan highlighted the risks to the real sector, inflation, and financial system stability from prolonged currency weakness. Despite global pressures, he noted the national banking sector remains resilient with credit growth at 9.98% and deposits up 11.39% as of April 2026.

ASEAN-Russia Summit: Sugiono Promotes Nuclear Energy for Indonesia's Energy Security

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has urged nuclear technology cooperation with Russia to achieve national energy self-sufficiency within three years. Speaking at the ASEAN-Russia summit in Kazan, he stressed that any partnership must include technology transfer, human resource development, and the highest international safety standards. Indonesia is also exploring the deployment of floating nuclear power plants with Russian state firm Rosatom alongside a phased import of 150 million barrels of Russian crude oil.

Jasa Marga Accelerates Toll Road Repairs on Japek and JORR Ahead of School Holidays

State-owned toll road operator PT Jasa Marga is intensifying preventive maintenance across its network, including the Jakarta-Cikampek and JORR routes, to ensure safety and comfort during the upcoming school holiday surge. The programme utilises AI-powered inspection vehicles and targets repairing identified damage within 48 hours. Most physical works are scheduled at night to minimise traffic disruption.

BMKG Warns of Potential Extreme Weather in North Sumatra on 19 June 2026

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for extreme weather across North Sumatra on Friday, 19 June 2026. The conditions are expected to bring moderate to heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds, potentially triggering hydrometeorological disasters such as floods and landslides. Residents in mountainous, coastal, and slope areas are urged to remain vigilant and follow official updates.

DPR Leadership, OJK, and IDX Discuss Stock Exchange Governance Reform

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad met with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) to coordinate improvements in stock exchange governance. The discussions focused on strengthening oversight and continuing integrity reforms to support market development. The new IDX board pledged to enhance transparency and deepen market participation to elevate the exchange to world-class standards.

Pelalawan Residents Urge Sustainable Maintenance of Peatland Canal Blocks

A resident of Pelalawan, Riau, has urged the government to ensure the sustainable management of newly built peatland canal blocks, not just their ceremonial construction. Erwan highlighted the need for regular maintenance, guard placement, and network expansion to effectively prevent recurring forest and land fires that have repeatedly destroyed his crops.

How BI Rate Increase Affects Spending and Investment

Bank Indonesia's decision to raise its benchmark rate to 5.75 percent is seen as a preemptive move to stabilise the rupiah rather than a response to a systemic crisis. The higher rate may attract foreign capital and lower Indonesia's risk premium, but it also risks dampening stock valuations, increasing borrowing costs, and slowing domestic consumption and investment. Analysts note that sustained foreign inflows will require complementary fiscal credibility and clearer policy communication.

Eight New Permanent 'Sekolah Rakyat' Sites Enter Physical Construction Phase

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has confirmed that physical construction will soon begin on eight additional permanent 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) across the country. The programme, funded by the state budget on land provided by local governments, is an affirmative action initiative targeting children from extremely poor families. Minister Saifullah Yusuf stressed a zero-tolerance policy for corruption or nepotism, emphasising that student intake is conducted through proactive outreach by local authorities rather than open registration.

Yogyakarta Regional Government Launches Eco-Friendly Tech Innovation to Tackle Climate Crisis

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) government has unveiled new environmentally friendly technology, including electric waste carts, as part of its climate crisis mitigation strategy. The initiative aligns with local regulations and the Javanese philosophy of environmental stewardship. The launch also recognised local communities and a national environmental award recipient for their conservation efforts.

Non-Subsidised Fuel Price Hike Seen as Momentum to Accelerate Electric Vehicle Adoption

The recent increase in non-subsidised fuel prices is being viewed as a catalyst to speed up electric vehicle adoption in Indonesia. A national survey indicates overwhelming public support, with 98% of respondents backing EV use and 95% urging the government to accelerate the transition. Industry leaders argue that consistent policy support is now crucial to maintain affordability, boost domestic manufacturing, and reduce long-term reliance on fuel imports.

KPK Examines Immigration Officers and Private Staff to Confirm Evidence from Sting Operation

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned multiple immigration officials and private company employees to verify evidence seized in a sting operation targeting an alleged extortion ring. The operation uncovered assets worth Rp17.5 billion, including vehicles, bank balances, and cryptocurrency. Eight suspects, including former high-ranking immigration officials, have been detained over accusations of extorting foreign nationals for residence permits between 2022 and 2026.

Understanding Rhabdomyolysis: The Massive Muscle Damage Threatening Unprepared Runners

A participant in the Jakarta International Marathon 2026 died after collapsing from rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle breakdown condition. Medical experts warn that overexertion without adequate training, dehydration, and heat stress are the primary triggers. Early symptoms include intense muscle pain, swelling, and persistent fatigue with nausea, distinguishing it from normal post-exercise soreness.

Gov't urges regions to use World Cup viewings to boost economy

The Indonesian government is encouraging regional administrations to organise public screenings of the 2026 World Cup as a strategy to stimulate local economic activity. A Home Affairs Ministry circular aims to leverage public enthusiasm for the tournament to create business opportunities for MSMEs and generate a multiplier effect similar to long holidays. The initiative seeks to transform the sporting event into a driver of regional original revenue and community economic movement.

National Medical Device Associations Complain About Procurement Governance and Tax Burden

Four major Indonesian medical device associations have voiced deep concerns over current procurement governance and tax policies, warning they risk lowering patient care quality and threatening domestic industry independence. The groups highlighted issues including fiscal pressure, centralised procurement, and complex regulations during a health ecosystem discussion at Sebelas Maret University. They are urging the government to provide consistent tax incentives and regulatory relief to sustain the sector's pandemic-era push for self-reliance.

Government Urges Civil Servants to Use Locally Made SME Products

The Indonesian government is pushing civil servants (ASN) to use locally produced goods from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as part of a broader strategy to elevate the sector. Officials highlighted the 'SAPA UMKM' platform and the 'Kota Masa Depan' programme in Banjarmasin as key initiatives to boost SME digitalisation, market access, and competitiveness against imports.

Indonesia meets FAO food self-sufficiency benchmark: Minister

Indonesia has met the FAO's food self-sufficiency standard, with imports accounting for only 4-5% of domestic needs, according to a government minister. The country is self-sufficient in eight of twelve strategic food commodities, with only garlic, beef, and soybeans still requiring foreign supplies. A USDA report also highlighted Indonesia as a key driver of increased global rice production, with annual output exceeding 30 million tons.

Chronology of SMAN 6 Jakarta Student Snagged by Cable and Killed Under School Bus

A tenth-grade student from SMAN 6 Jakarta died after falling from a motorcycle that snagged on a protruding cable, leading to her being run over by a school bus in South Jakarta. The victim was being driven to school by her father when the accident occurred on Jalan Lauser early Thursday morning. Local education authorities are providing support to the grieving family, while the police are investigating the exact cause of the collision.

BI Lowers Limit for Forex Purchases Without Underlying to US$10,000 from 1 July

Bank Indonesia is tightening foreign exchange rules, reducing the maximum purchase of foreign currency without supporting documents to US$10,000 per person per month starting 1 July 2026. The central bank is also lowering the threshold for mandatory documentation on overseas transfers from US$50,000 to US$25,000. Governor Perry Warjiyo stated the measures aim to strengthen prudential principles and stabilise the domestic financial market amid global uncertainties.

Defence Minister Urges YTP Troops in Aceh to Boost Public Welfare

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has called on the 855/RD Territorial Development Battalion in Gayo Lues, Aceh, to actively contribute to improving local welfare through community empowerment programmes. During a visit to the battalion, he emphasised their dual role in maintaining security and driving regional economic growth. The Ministry of Defence also pledged to improve facilities to support the troops' community service and post-disaster recovery efforts.

JCI Opens Lower at 6,191 as Investors Await BI Announcement

The Jakarta Composite Index opened 0.91 percent lower at 6,191 on Thursday as market participants awaited Bank Indonesia's policy decision. Analysts expect a 25-basis-point rate hike to 5.75 percent to defend the rupiah and retain foreign capital, though it may raise funding costs for businesses and pressure interest-rate-sensitive sectors. The move is seen as necessary to maintain macroeconomic stability amid persistent global uncertainty over US interest rates.

Indonesian films dominate domestic market with 67 pct share: Minister

Culture Minister Fadli Zon announced that Indonesian films now command a 67 percent market share in domestic cinemas, reflecting a strong public preference for local content. He highlighted the need for private investment to address the uneven distribution of screens across the archipelago and revealed the government is seeking an additional Rp3.9 trillion budget to support the industry. A revision of the Film Law is also being prepared to adapt to technological advances and artificial intelligence.

Police Detain Unnes Student Suspected of Sexually Harassing Delivery Customer

A student from Semarang State University (Unnes) has been detained by police after allegedly sending sexually explicit messages to a female customer of his delivery service. The suspect was cornered by an angry crowd at the campus before being taken into custody early Thursday morning. Authorities are investigating the motive and have urged other potential victims to come forward.

Former Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff Achmad Sutjipto Passes Away

Former Indonesian Navy Chief of Staff, Admiral (Ret.) Achmad Sutjipto, has died. The Indonesian Navy and House of Representatives Commission I member Dave Laksono expressed their condolences, highlighting Sutjipto's dedication and his significant contribution to Indonesia's maritime defence and national sovereignty.

BI Tightens Forex Rules: USD 10,000 Limit for Non-Underlying Purchases from July 1

Bank Indonesia (BI) is tightening foreign exchange regulations to strengthen prudential principles and stabilise the rupiah. From 1 July 2026, the threshold for purchasing foreign currency without supporting documents will be lowered to USD 10,000 per month, down from the current limit. The central bank is also reducing the threshold for mandatory documentation on outward forex transfers to USD 25,000, while simultaneously deepening the money market ecosystem to attract foreign investment.

Padang Launches Market Operation for Minyakita Cooking Oil

The Padang city government has initiated a market operation to distribute the subsidised cooking oil brand Minyakita at below-market prices. The programme, running until 30 June 2026 across nine traditional markets, aims to stabilise prices, control inflation, and address recent supply shortages. The oil is being sold at Rp15,000 per litre, below the official retail ceiling of Rp15,700.

Apple to Raise Product Prices Amid Soaring Memory Chip Costs

Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed that product price increases are unavoidable due to unsustainable rises in memory chip costs. The surge is driven by booming AI demand and geopolitical disruptions affecting semiconductor manufacturing, with the transition coming as Apple prepares for a leadership change.

Foreign Minister Sugiono Encourages RI-Russia Nuclear Cooperation for Energy Security

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has urged nuclear technology cooperation with Russia to achieve national energy self-sufficiency within three years. The partnership, discussed at the ASEAN-Russia summit in Kazan, would focus on technology transfer, human resource development, and the highest international safety standards. Indonesia is also exploring the import of Russian crude oil and the development of floating nuclear power plants with Rosatom.

Home Affairs Ministry Pushes for Online SP2D to Boost Regional Financial Transparency

The Ministry of Home Affairs is accelerating the implementation of the online Surat Perintah Pencairan Dana (SP2D) system to enhance transparency and efficiency in regional financial management. A coordination meeting with OJK, Bank Indonesia, and regional development banks discussed regulatory support and the strategic role of BPDs in the digital transformation. The initiative is part of a broader effort to fully digitise local government transactions under the SIPD RI system.

Bank Indonesia Cuts Foreign Currency Purchase Threshold to $10,000

Bank Indonesia is tightening foreign exchange controls by lowering the threshold for purchasing foreign currency without documentation from $25,000 to $10,000 per person per month, effective July 1. The central bank also reduced the limit for undocumented overseas transfers from $50,000 to $25,000, with the changes aimed at supporting rupiah stability and enhancing transaction oversight.

Vice President Gibran Engages Students to Highlight Benefits of Free Nutritious Meals in Underdeveloped Regions

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has emphasised the critical importance of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for Indonesia's most disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions. During a visit to a primary school in Ende, NTT, he involved university students to witness the programme's impact firsthand, responding to previous student criticism. Gibran stressed that the school holiday period is a crucial time to evaluate and improve the programme's governance to ensure it effectively reaches vulnerable communities and reduces stunting.

UI Analyst: US-Iran MoU Could Ease Tensions, Israel Left Sidelined

A newly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran is seen as a potential step towards reducing Middle East tensions, with the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz a key focus. University of Indonesia analyst Suzie Sudarman argues that while both Washington and Tehran can claim diplomatic wins, Israel emerges as the biggest loser, having been abandoned by President Trump. The strategic interests of both nations are expected to sustain the diplomatic process despite potential future leadership changes.

IDX Board of Directors Line-up for 2026-2030 to Take Effect After AGM

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has announced seven candidates for its board of directors for the 2026-2030 term, following approval from the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The proposed line-up, which includes Jeffrey Hendrik as President Director, will become effective upon shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting on 29 June 2026. Hendrik has been serving as acting President Director since the resignation of Iman Rachman in January.

Indonesia Achieves Rice Self-Sufficiency, No Import Permits Issued in 2025: Minister

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has confirmed Indonesia's attainment of rice self-sufficiency, citing a government stockpile of 5.2 million tonnes that far exceeds Bulog's storage capacity. The surplus, combined with standing crops and downstream reserves, is projected to cover national consumption for up to 11 months. The minister also noted that rice has ceased to be a contributor to national inflation for two consecutive years.

Bahlil Forms Coal Procurement Team for PLN, Here Are the Details

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced the formation of a new team to oversee coal procurement for state electricity firm PLN, following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto. The team aims to ensure transparency and secure the remaining 20 million tonnes of coal needed to meet PLN's 2026 demand of 154 million tonnes. It will involve officials from the Energy Ministry, the Development Finance Comptroller (BPKP), and PLN itself to minimise operational costs and prevent electricity supply disruptions.

Despite Exchange Rate and Capital Flow Pressures, Indonesia's Economic Fundamentals Remain Sound for Investment

Indonesia's economic fundamentals remain relatively robust despite current financial market volatility, with investment opportunities still considered wide open. Co-Founder of Simpan Asset Management, Nicholas Hilman, noted that pressures are concentrated on the rupiah exchange rate and capital flows rather than a broad weakening of economic foundations. He highlighted that the market is reacting to policy uncertainty and external factors, not a collapse in fundamentals, presenting attractive valuations for investors.

Education Ministry Highlights Academic Test and Computational Thinking to Boost Quality

Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is promoting computational thinking and the Academic Aptitude Test (TKA) as key tools to improve educational standards and foster critical logic among students. A ministry official noted that a lack of logical training leaves citizens vulnerable to fraud, while the TKA serves as an important validator for university admissions. The Governor of Jambi expressed support for the national programme, emphasising its role in equalising education quality across the region.

SPPG Will Not Receive Rp6 Million Daily Incentive During School Holidays

The Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit (SPPG) will not receive its daily incentive of Rp6 million during the school holiday period, as the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is temporarily halted. The policy, outlined in a circular from the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), is expected to generate budget savings of approximately Rp3 trillion. The suspension aims to support the restructuring and standardisation of the programme's operational governance.

SPPG Will Not Receive Incentives During School Holidays, BGN Focuses on Improving MBG Programme Governance

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has confirmed that Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) will not receive daily incentives during the school holiday period when the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is temporarily halted. The policy is expected to save approximately Rp3 trillion in state funds, which will be redirected towards standardising and improving the programme's operational governance.

Intel Shares Surge After Trump Claims Partnership with Apple

Intel's stock price soared over 7% in premarket trading after US President Donald Trump announced a partnership with Apple to design and manufacture chips domestically. The move is part of a broader US strategy to reduce reliance on foreign semiconductor manufacturing and bolster technological sovereignty. The collaboration follows similar deals between Intel and Nvidia, as well as Elon Musk's Terrafab.

Indonesia Achieves FAO Food Self-Sufficiency Standard, Imports Below 10%

Indonesia has officially reached aggregate food self-sufficiency according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) standard, with import dependency falling to just 4-5 per cent. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman stated that domestic production has reached 73 million tonnes, surpassing the national requirement of 68 million tonnes. The government will now focus on boosting production of the three remaining deficit commodities: garlic, beef, and soybeans.

NTB Provincial Government Offers Rp 1.2 Trillion Renewable Energy Projects to Oman

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government has proposed renewable energy projects worth US$78 million to Oman, alongside investment opportunities in premium tourism and marine sectors. The offer, made during a meeting between the governor and Oman's ambassador, includes ready-to-invest solar and wind power plants. The province is also attracting interest from investors in Bahrain, Bulgaria, and Armenia.

Gus Lilur Backs Nasaruddin Umar for PBNU Chair, Citing Lessons from Past Congress

Young NU figure Gus Lilur has urged the 35th NU Congress to prioritise organisational purification over power struggles, warning that the wrong leadership choice could be fatal. He specifically endorsed Nasaruddin Umar, arguing the next chairman must support the Prabowo-Gibran administration for two terms to safeguard national unity.

DPR Deputy Speaker Dasco to Coordinate with State Secretariat on Fate of Hotel Sultan Employees

Following the court-ordered handover of Hotel Sultan to the government, Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's House of Representatives Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has pledged to coordinate with the Ministry of State Secretariat to ensure the hotel's existing employees are retained. The Central Jakarta District Court executed the transfer of the land and 15 buildings to the state on Thursday.

US Defence Secretary Urges NATO to Return to Being a Strong Military Alliance

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has called for NATO to transform into a 'hardcore military alliance' with genuine combat capabilities, coining the term 'NATO 3.0'. His remarks come amid reports suggesting Washington may reduce certain military contributions to the alliance.

Said Abdullah Affirms PDIP's Position as a Balancing Party

PDI Perjuangan (PDIP) has formally adopted a political stance as a 'balancing party' rather than a formal opposition, according to party chairman Said Abdullah. The party will objectively support government policies that benefit the people while offering constructive criticism for those deemed lacking. President Prabowo Subianto reportedly understands and appreciates this approach, viewing it as a form of honest friendship.

76 Schools in Java to Be Excluded from Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has identified 76 schools in Java that will no longer receive the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, as they are deemed capable of independently meeting students' nutritional needs. The budget will be redirected to more vulnerable groups, including children in underdeveloped regions, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. The agency is continuing to update its data to ensure the programme targets those most in need of nutritional intervention.

Bank Indonesia Raises Bank External Funding Ratio Cap to 40 Percent

Bank Indonesia (BI) will increase the maximum limit for the Bank External Funding Ratio (RPLN) from 35 percent to 40 percent of capital, effective 1 July 2026. The move aims to broaden banks' funding sources, particularly from abroad, to boost lending to the real economy while maintaining prudential principles. The central bank also reported it has disbursed Rp418.1 trillion in macroprudential liquidity incentives to support priority sectors.

Despite Eviction Execution, Hotel Sultan Still Lists Rooms on Online Travel Agents at Exorbitant Prices

As authorities executed an eviction order for the iconic Hotel Sultan in Jakarta following a 20-year ownership dispute, the hotel continued to advertise rooms on several online travel platforms at high rates. The execution was carried out by the Central Jakarta District Court with support from military and police personnel to secure the state asset.

Perumda Pasar Jaya Holds UMKM & Culinary Bazaar to Boost Economic Growth

Jakarta's market authority Perumda Pasar Jaya is hosting a bazaar for micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) at its headquarters to promote local products and culinary offerings. The initiative aims to expand market access for small businesses, stimulate entrepreneurship, and reinforce the role of traditional markets as inclusive economic hubs. The event aligns with the company's transformation strategy to modernise markets and develop them into culinary destinations.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme Suspended During 2026 School Holidays

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will halt the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during the 22 June to 13 July 2026 school holidays. The suspension is intended to allow for operational restructuring, standardisation of governance, and resource efficiency. All beneficiary categories will be affected, and service units will not receive incentives during the break.

Police Question School Bus Driver After Student Dies in South Jakarta Accident

Jakarta police are investigating a fatal accident in Kebayoran Baru that killed a female high school student and injured a motorcyclist. The incident occurred when the motorcycle's handlebars reportedly snagged on a protruding cable, causing the riders to fall into the path of a school bus. Authorities have detained the bus driver and are working to identify the owner of the cable that triggered the crash.

Fortune Southeast Asia 500 Released, National Company in Top Three

The 2026 Fortune Southeast Asia 500 list has been published, with Indonesia's state-owned energy firm Pertamina securing third place with revenues of US$70.9 billion. Branding expert Yuswohady highlighted that Pertamina's ranking not only enhances its corporate image but also reflects Indonesia's national economic strength on the global stage. He emphasised that the company should focus on qualitative improvements such as governance and innovation rather than merely pursuing a higher ranking.

Ministry urges MSMEs to utilise SAPA platform for strategic programmes

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises is encouraging business owners to use the SAPA UMKM digital platform to access government support programmes. The platform provides information on training, product certification, financing, investment, and market expansion. Officials emphasised that strengthening partnerships and supply chains through the platform can enhance competitiveness and open broader market access for local products.

BRI sees no urgency for significant rate hike despite BI-Rate increase

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has stated it does not feel an immediate need to significantly raise its interest rates, despite Bank Indonesia's cumulative 100 basis point hike in the benchmark rate over the past month. The bank cites its broad customer base, low cost of funds, and strong CASA ratio as buffers, while acknowledging some customers have begun requesting special rates.

Iran's Economic Suffering to Persist for Years Despite End of War

Although Iran and the US have signed a memorandum of understanding to end hostilities and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the country's economic devastation is expected to linger for years. Total economic damage is estimated at US$144 billion, with inflation soaring past 50%, food prices up 131%, and millions of jobs lost. While a potential US$300 billion investment figure offers hope, its realisation remains highly uncertain amid political hurdles.

Armed Criminal Group Commander Shot Dead During Arrest Attempt in Papua

An armed criminal group commander in Papua, identified as AP, was shot dead by security forces after attempting to flee into the forest during an arrest operation in Dekai, Yahukimo Regency. The suspect was wanted for multiple shootings, including attacks that injured two civilians in April. Police also seized ammunition, weapons, and communication devices during a prior raid on a suspected group hideout.

DIY Police Confirm Intel Officer Detained by UMY Students on Campus Is Their Member

The Yogyakarta Regional Police (Polda DIY) have confirmed that a man detained by students at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) was an intelligence officer assigned to monitor a student demonstration. The police explained the officer was part of a team ensuring the safe return of protesters to campus, and the incident was resolved through dialogue with university officials and students.

Bogor Angkot Drivers Protest Addition of Biskita Bus Stops

Public minivan (angkot) drivers and owners in Bogor protested at the city's transportation office over the addition of eight new Biskita bus stops along Jalan Raya Tajur. They claim the expansion of the subsidised bus service has slashed their income by nearly 50 per cent. The transportation agency stated the new stops were added to meet public demand for safe, comfortable, and affordable transport.

Impact of Fuel Price Hike on Food Supply Chain and Agribusiness Strategies

The recent increase in non-subsidised fuel prices in Indonesia is raising concerns about a domino effect on the agribusiness supply chain, from production to consumer prices. A UGM academic highlights that the sector's heavy reliance on transport makes it particularly vulnerable, urging efficiency strategies and government support. Strengthening domestic food production is seen as a fundamental long-term solution to reduce exposure to global energy price fluctuations.

OJK Entrusts New IDX Board with Integrity Reform and Market Deepening

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has selected seven new directors for the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2026-2030 period. The new board, led by Jeffrey Hendrik, is tasked with continuing integrity reforms and deepening the capital market. The official appointment will be ratified at a shareholders' meeting on 29 June 2026.

InJourney Provides Photography Training for Photographers at TWC Destinations

InJourney Destination Management (IDM) has conducted photography training for 108 photographers at Borobudur, Prambanan, and Ratu Boko temple compounds. The initiative aims to enhance the skills of local tourism workers and improve service quality at these UNESCO World Heritage sites. The programme also included hospitality training to help photographers create compelling visual narratives for visitors.

Dasco Leads Coordination with OJK and New BEI Chief to Reform Stock Exchange Governance

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad held a coordination meeting with the OJK and the newly appointed board of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) to discuss improving the bourse's governance. The OJK commissioner urged the new directors to commit to integrity reforms, while the BEI's new chief pledged to enhance transparency and elevate the exchange to world-class standards.

Home Affairs Ministry Pushes for Faster SP2D Online Implementation in Local Government Digitalisation Drive

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs is accelerating the implementation of online fund disbursement orders (SP2D) to enhance transparency and efficiency in local government financial management. A coordination meeting with the Financial Services Authority (OJK), Bank Indonesia, and regional development banks discussed regulatory support and digital integration. The initiative is part of a broader national agenda to digitalise public financial governance through the SIPD RI system.

Indonesia's rice reserves sufficient for next 10 months: Minister

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister has confirmed that national rice reserves, combined with standing crop potential and private stocks, are sufficient to cover the next 10 to 11 months. The government is also implementing mitigation measures such as irrigation systems and land optimisation to address the potential impacts of the Godzilla El Nino phenomenon. These efforts aim to maintain food security and production stability ahead of the peak harvest in March.

School Holidays: National Nutrition Agency to Evaluate Thousands of Problematic Kitchens

The Free Nutritious Meals programme will be paused during the 18-day school holiday period from 22 June to 13 July 2026. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will use this time to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of 27,820 service units, many of which have been found to fall short of operational standards. The review follows reports of substandard kitchens and aims to restructure or relocate services to ensure quality across Indonesia.

PRR Task Force Urges Ministries and Regional Governments to Accelerate Permanent Recovery

The Post-Disaster Recovery and Reconstruction (PRR) Task Force for Sumatra has called on ministries and regional administrations to swiftly utilise allocated recovery funds. A total budget of Rp100.1 trillion has been prepared for the 2026-2028 period to rehabilitate infrastructure, housing, and economic sectors in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. Five ministries have already received their budget allocations, while regional governments are being urged to immediately spend the additional Rp10.6 trillion in fiscal transfers disbursed since May 2026.

DPR Encourages Riau Women SMEs to Strengthen Four Pillars

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises in Riau to bolster their national spirit and entrepreneurship. The initiative, conducted through a socialisation of the MPR's Four Pillars, aims to help these businesses scale up and increase their contribution to regional economic growth.

Questioned on Not Meeting Protesting Students, Central Java Governor Retorts: 'Are You Demonstrating or Interviewing?'

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi deflected journalists' questions about his absence from student protests, asking reporters whether they were demonstrating or interviewing. The students, who have held three rallies in a week, are demanding a direct meeting to present research on the impact of government policies.

Government Urged to Anticipate Food Price Hikes Following Non-Subsidised Fuel Increase

The Indonesian government is being urged to implement anticipatory measures to prevent a surge in food prices after the price of non-subsidised Pertamax fuel was raised. An agricultural economist warns that the increase will significantly impact logistics costs throughout the food supply chain, particularly straining distribution from production centres to markets. The call comes amid reports of immediate price spikes for staples like chillies and cooking oil in areas such as Depok.

DPR Urges Police to Name Wife of Hanania Travel Boss as Suspect in Umrah Fraud Case

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has urged Jakarta police to name the wife of the Hanania Group boss as a suspect in an alleged umrah travel fraud case. The commission argues her role as company commissioner makes her accountable and that delaying her suspect status risks evidence tampering. Police currently consider her a witness needed to trace the primary suspect's assets.

Bank Mandiri Introduces New Transaction Features on Kopra Mobile

State-owned Bank Mandiri has updated its Kopra Mobile application to streamline business transactions for corporate and commercial clients. The upgrade introduces mobile cash management initiation, simplified bulk transaction approvals, and real-time account monitoring. The bank aims to support the growing demand for digital banking solutions that enhance business mobility and decision-making speed.

Kupang Faces Rp 134 Billion Shortfall for PPPK Salaries, Regent Writes to Finance Ministry Three Times

The Kupang regency government is grappling with a Rp 134 billion deficit in personnel expenditure, primarily for PPPK salaries, holiday bonuses, and the 13th-month salary. Regent Yosef Lede attributes the shortfall to reduced central government transfers and has formally requested additional funds from the Ministry of Finance three times. Should the central government fail to provide support, the regency has prepared contingency measures including reallocating discretionary funds and evaluating additional employee income allowances.

Indonesian Citizens Urged to Be Cautious as Europe Tightens Migration Rules

The European Parliament has approved stricter migration regulations, including faster deportations and the potential establishment of migrant detention centres outside EU territory. The changes signal a tougher stance on foreigners who overstay visas or lack legal residency, making compliance with immigration rules increasingly critical for Indonesian nationals travelling to or residing in Europe.

How to Check Your BPJS Kesehatan Contribution Status via WhatsApp

The article provides a step-by-step guide for Indonesian citizens to check their BPJS Kesehatan membership and contribution status online. It details how to use the official WhatsApp service, Pandawa, alongside other digital channels like the Mobile JKN app, Care Center 165, and the CHIKA chatbot. The piece also reminds users to pay their premiums before the 10th of each month to maintain active coverage.

Deputy Home Minister Wiyagus Stresses Cross-Regional Synergy as Key to Forest Fire Control Ahead of 2026–2027 El Niño

Deputy Home Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has called for strengthened inter-regional cooperation to tackle forest and land fires in anticipation of the 2026–2027 El Niño phenomenon. He emphasised that disaster impacts transcend administrative borders, making integrated planning and collaboration essential. The Ministry of Home Affairs is facilitating this through existing regulations and by boosting the capacity of local agencies and communities.

Life Insurance Industry Strengthens Financial Resilience Amid Positive Premium Growth

Indonesia's life insurance sector recorded a 20% increase in the number of insured individuals, reaching 118 million in the first quarter of 2026, despite global economic headwinds. The industry's long-term orientation is credited for its stability, with total premiums growing 1.2% year-on-year to Rp14.29 trillion. The sector is also focusing on enhancing agent professionalism through competency certification and global forums to boost financial literacy and public trust.

Impact of Further BI Rate Hike on Consumption and Investment

Bank Indonesia's decision to raise its benchmark interest rate to 5.75 percent is seen as a pre-emptive move to stabilise the rupiah amid global uncertainty. Analysts warn the aggressive tightening, while potentially attracting foreign capital, will increase the cost of funds and may dampen domestic consumption and investment. The central bank has raised rates by 100 basis points in roughly one month, a pace described as aggressive by historical standards.

West Java DPRD Flags Potential Gaps in New Student Admission Verification, Calls for System Evaluation and Staff Training

A West Java legislator has raised concerns over the implementation of the new Student Admission System (SPMB), highlighting potential unfairness in the 'buffer school' mechanism where students living closer to a school are rejected while those from farther away are accepted. He is urging the government to provide better training for school-level verification officers to ensure document authenticity and to use the allocated budget to improve the overall quality and transparency of the admission process.

French National Charged with Defaming West Nusa Tenggara Police Chief

A French citizen, Ludovic Roche, has been charged with insulting and defaming the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Police Chief via social media videos. The Mataram District Court read the indictment on Thursday, noting the charges carry a maximum penalty of under five years. The court has opened the possibility for restorative justice mediation between the defendant and the complainant ahead of the next hearing.

TaniHub Case: Four Venture Capital Executives Sentenced to 2-5 Years in Prison

Four former executives from MDI Ventures and BRI Ventures have been found guilty of corruption in the TaniHub Group investment case, receiving prison sentences ranging from two to five years. The court ruled they had approved $25 million in investments without proper due diligence or audited financial reports, causing state losses of approximately Rp 364 billion. The sentences were significantly lighter than the 9-12 years sought by prosecutors, with judges citing the defendants' contributions to Indonesia's digital innovation ecosystem and the absence of personal enrichment as mitigating factors.

Platform Siap MBG: Papuan Youth's Geospatial Innovation for Public Transparency

Young digital talents in Central Papua have developed a monitoring platform called SIAP-MBG to enhance transparency in the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The application features a geospatial dashboard allowing the public to track planning, finances, and distribution locations in Nabire. Officials hope this locally created tool can serve as a national model for improving programme governance.

BPOM Oversees Biosimilar Development and Export Expansion in Sidoarjo

Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) is intensively monitoring the development of biosimilar technology and processed food exports in Sidoarjo. The agency has issued a key manufacturing certificate for a clinical trial biosimilar and inspected a major cracker factory exporting to over 30 countries. BPOM emphasised that its strict oversight serves as both public health protection and a strategic enabler for national pharmaceutical independence and global market competitiveness.

DPR Deputy Speaker Dasco Meets OJK and IDX Chiefs to Discuss Stock Exchange Governance Reform

House of Representatives (DPR) leaders convened with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) directors to coordinate on improving stock exchange governance. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stated that the DPR has urged the OJK to enhance market supervision. The meeting reportedly reached several agreements aimed at achieving better exchange governance in the future.

BGN Halts Free Nutritious Meals During School Holidays, Claims Savings of IDR 3 Trillion

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during the upcoming school holidays. The policy aims to standardise operational governance and achieve resource efficiency, with the government estimating savings of over IDR 3 trillion by withholding incentives from non-operational service units.

PRR Task Force Urges Ministries and Local Governments to Accelerate Permanent Recovery as Budget Begins to Flow

The Sumatran Post-Disaster Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Task Force (Satgas PRR) is pushing for the swift implementation of permanent recovery programmes in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. A total budget of Rp100.1 trillion has been allocated for the 2026–2028 period, with five ministries already receiving their disbursements. Local governments are also being urged to utilise an additional Rp10.6 trillion in fiscal transfers to address priority infrastructure and public service needs.

Bank Indonesia Caps Dollar Purchases Without Underlying at US$10,000

Bank Indonesia will lower the threshold for foreign currency purchases without an underlying transaction to US$10,000 per person per month starting July 2026. The central bank aims to strengthen governance, deepen money and foreign exchange markets, and support rupiah stabilisation. The outgoing transfer documentation threshold will also be tightened from US$50,000 to US$25,000.

Former Navy Chief of Staff Admiral Achmad Sutjipto Passes Away

Retired Admiral Achmad Sutjipto, former Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, has died at the age of 81. He is remembered as a dedicated national figure who made significant contributions to the development of Indonesia's maritime defence forces. His body will be interred at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta.

Indonesian Air Force Inaugurates Squadron 18, Home to Falcon 8X Aircraft

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has officially inaugurated Squadron 18 at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, which will house six Dassault Falcon 8X aircraft. The squadron is tasked with providing VIP and VVIP transport for state officials and dignitaries. Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono emphasised the high standards of professionalism and security required for these missions.

Maritime Safety Must Be a Priority for All Stakeholders

Indonesian classification bureau BKI has convened a strategic forum to align regulatory understanding and improve safety standards for the national fleet. The event brought together regulators, industry players, and maritime stakeholders to discuss the implementation of bottom damage stability and double hull requirements. Officials stressed that maritime safety is a shared responsibility essential for protecting lives, assets, and the sustainability of the domestic shipping industry.

BGN Removes 76 Schools in Java from Free Nutritious Meal Programme, More Likely to Follow

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has removed 76 schools in Java from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, affecting 39,352 students, as part of a refocusing effort to target those most in need. The agency deemed these schools capable of independently meeting students' nutritional needs and will redirect resources to underdeveloped regions and vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. The number of delisted schools is expected to rise as the BGN continues to review and update its beneficiary data.

Tasikmalaya BPBD on High Alert for Forest and Land Fires

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Tasikmalaya Regency is intensifying public education and outreach to prevent forest and land fires as the dry season approaches. With 39 sub-districts facing medium to high drought risk, officials are urging residents to avoid burning waste and clearing land with fire. The warning comes as the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) predicts the El Niño phenomenon will have a significant impact starting in June.

Iran Hails 'Historic' MoU with US, Warns Implementation Will Be Harder

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has welcomed a Memorandum of Understanding with the United States to end hostilities, calling it a historic document. However, Tehran's Foreign Ministry cautioned that enforcing the agreement would be more difficult than drafting it, given past US non-compliance. Iran vowed to ensure Washington fulfils its commitments and threatened reciprocal non-compliance if the US fails to uphold its obligations.

BI Governor Says Rupiah Strengthening Supported by Surge in Foreign Ownership of SRBI

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo stated that the rupiah's recent appreciation has been bolstered by a significant increase in non-resident holdings of Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI), which reached Rp 238.09 trillion. The central bank's policy measures, including raising SRBI interest rates and intensifying foreign exchange interventions, have helped attract foreign portfolio inflows and stabilise the currency amid global uncertainty.

Genetic Factors Not the Main Cause of Obesity, Nutrition Expert Explains

A clinical nutrition specialist has clarified that genetics play a minor role in obesity, accounting for less than 20% of cases. Lifestyle and environmental factors are the dominant and modifiable causes. The expert also stressed that obesity is defined by excess body fat, not just weight, and highlighted the 'skinny fat' phenomenon.

Learn from the Libby Zion Case

The article draws parallels between the landmark 1984 Libby Zion medical negligence case in the United States and the recent deaths of four Indonesian internship doctors in 2026. It argues that systemic issues, particularly resident doctor burnout and lack of supervision, are endangering patient safety and violating Indonesian health laws. The author calls for introspection and policy reform to ensure internship programmes comply with legal mandates on supervision and doctor welfare.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Stresses Interregional Synergy to Control Forest and Land Fires

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Akhmad Wiyagus has called for strengthened interregional cooperation to tackle forest and land fires ahead of the anticipated El Niño phenomenon in 2026-2027. He emphasised that fire impacts transcend administrative boundaries, requiring integrated action and the use of existing regional cooperation regulations. The government is also pushing for better planning, budgeting, and public education to enhance preparedness.

Regenerative Stem Cell Technology Gains Popularity for Healthy Ageing

Regenerative therapies, particularly stem cell treatments, are seeing increased demand in Indonesia as awareness of healthy ageing grows. Medical experts highlight that unlike temporary aesthetic procedures, stem cells work to repair and regenerate ageing or damaged cells, offering a more holistic approach to long-term health. The Indonesian Ministry of Health regulates the use of stem cell therapies, ensuring they are only administered by certified facilities to guarantee safety and quality.

Eight East Java Regencies Declare Drought Emergency as Dry Season Peaks

Eight regencies in East Java have declared a drought emergency status as the region enters the peak of the dry season, with clean water supplies dwindling. The provincial disaster agency is monitoring the situation and stands ready to support local governments with water distribution once their own budgets are exhausted. Bondowoso Regency has recorded the largest distribution effort so far, delivering 155,000 litres of water across 12 sub-districts.

Prudential Syariah Saves Customer's Finances from Rp 200 Million Medical Bill, Here's the Story

Prudential Syariah has highlighted its commitment to providing meaningful sharia-compliant protection, having paid out Rp 8.5 trillion in claims to over 325,000 participants since 2022. The company shared the testimony of a customer whose family savings were preserved after the insurer fully covered three major medical procedures totalling more than Rp 200 million. The case underscores the financial safety net offered by Islamic insurance against unexpected health crises.

Task Force Resolves Eight Illegal Mining Cases in Kukar Forest Park, Suspects on Trial

A task force has completed legal proceedings for eight illegal mining cases within the Taman Hutan Raya (Tahura) conservation area in Kutai Kartanegara, with suspects now facing trial. The illegal activities have caused extensive environmental damage, affecting an estimated 4,000 hectares of the protected forest, while illegal plantations have expanded to roughly 8,000 hectares.

Permanent Infrastructure a Priority, Task Force Head Tito: Post-Disaster Recovery in Sumatra Shows Progress

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian reports positive progress in post-disaster rehabilitation across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. President Prabowo Subianto has approved a Rp100.1 trillion budget through 2028 for permanent infrastructure, including roads and bridges. Regional governments are urged to utilise additional transfer funds to address urgent local needs.

BPOM: Universities Are Key Partners in Preparing Talent for the Drug and Food Sector

Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) has emphasised the strategic role of universities in developing skilled talent for the pharmaceutical and food industries. BPOM Chief Taruna highlighted the need for academia-business-government collaboration to drive innovation and overcome the 'valley of death' in research commercialisation. The agency signed an MoU with Universitas Surabaya to strengthen education, research, and regulatory support for the sector.

BGN Announces Suspension of Free Nutritious Meals During School Holidays, Efficiency Saves Rp3 Trillion

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) will halt the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during all holiday periods, including school breaks from 22 June to 13 July 2026, affecting all beneficiaries including pregnant women and toddlers. The policy, formalised in Circular No. 12 of 2026, aims to standardise operational governance and resource efficiency, saving an estimated Rp3 trillion in SPPG incentives. Unlike previous holiday periods, no bundled meal distributions will occur, and kitchen facilities are strictly prohibited from any use during the downtime.

Perbanas Reveals Structural Issues Behind Sluggish MSME Lending

Indonesia's National Banks Association (Perbanas) has identified that sluggish growth in micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) lending is primarily driven by weak demand, with nearly 90% of MSMEs not seeking loans because they feel they do not need them. Despite high bank approval rates of around 94.3% for formal MSMEs, credit growth has contracted to -0.47% year-on-year as of February 2026, indicating a structural problem rather than a supply-side constraint. Perbanas has launched an MSME Centre to help bridge the gap and foster a more inclusive, bankable sector.

PLN EPI Completes Crucial Hot Tap on WNTS Pemping Gas Pipeline

PT PLN Energi Primer Indonesia (PLN EPI) has successfully completed the critical hot tap connection on the West Natuna Transportation System (WNTS) Pemping pipeline. This milestone paves the way for natural gas from the Natuna fields to flow to Batam and Sumatra, enhancing domestic energy security and reducing reliance on fuel oil. The project is expected to bolster Batam's competitiveness as an industrial and logistics hub while supporting national economic growth.

BGN Removes 76 Affluent Schools in Java from Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has identified 76 schools in Java with 39,352 students deemed financially capable, removing them from the priority list for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The agency plans to redirect the budget to more vulnerable groups, including underdeveloped regions and at-risk populations such as pregnant women and toddlers. The data is preliminary and will be updated as BGN continues verifying socioeconomic indicators to ensure aid reaches those most in need.

East Kalimantan Police Chief Visits Retired Officers and Widows Ahead of 80th Bhayangkara Anniversary

The East Kalimantan Regional Police conducted a social outreach visit to retired officers, widows, and ailing personnel in Balikpapan on Thursday. Led by Police Chief Inspector General Endar Priantoro, the initiative provided moral support and basic food packages as part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations. The activity aimed to strengthen emotional bonds between active members and the extended police family.

KPK Chief Confirms No Plan Yet to Halt Investigation into Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has clarified that it has no administrative plan to discontinue its inquiry into alleged corruption within the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at the National Nutrition Agency. Chairman Setyo Budiyanto stated the investigation remains at the preliminary stage and will await an internal case review before deciding on further steps. The statement aims to correct earlier reports suggesting the probe had stalled following a separate investigation by the Attorney General's Office.

West Bandung State School Admissions to Open Soon: Key Dates, Registration, and Capacity

Online registration for the 2026/2027 academic year at state primary and junior secondary schools in West Bandung Regency will commence shortly. The local education office has prepared approximately 31,000 seats across 701 primary schools and over 17,000 seats across 67 junior secondary schools.

Market Begins to Anticipate Results of MSCI and FTSE Reviews, Says Analyst

Market participants, particularly institutional and foreign investors, are already pricing in the outcomes of the upcoming MSCI and FTSE Russell reviews, reflected in nearly Rp 80 trillion in foreign outflows this year. Kiwoom Sekuritas remains optimistic that Indonesia will retain its emerging market status, though the reviews carry significant psychological weight due to concerns over market accessibility, regulatory certainty, and governance. The key announcements are scheduled between 19 and 24 June 2026.

China launches new campaign to boost NEV consumption in rural areas

China has initiated a new campaign aimed at accelerating the adoption of new energy vehicles (NEVs) in rural regions. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, will focus on improving trade-in services and selecting suitable vehicle models for rural consumers. It also seeks to enhance supporting infrastructure, including charging and battery-swapping facilities, to stimulate market demand.

Amran Guarantees Rice Stocks Safe Until April 2027 Despite El Niño and Drought

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has assured that national rice stocks are sufficient for the next 11 months, lasting until April 2027, despite the threat of the El Niño Godzilla weather phenomenon. He detailed current reserves, standing crops, and market stocks, while outlining mitigation measures including irrigation projects and land optimisation. The minister also addressed falling egg prices and plans for expanding cocoa, coffee, and coconut plantations.

Russia Hopes US and Iran Maintain Peace Commitment

Russia has welcomed the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their conflict, calling for all parties to uphold the agreement and prevent further escalation. Moscow expressed hope that the peace deal would restore trust among Persian Gulf nations and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while also reaffirming its readiness to support long-term stabilisation efforts in the Middle East.

NTB Religious Affairs Office Proposes Moratorium on New Islamic Boarding School Permits Amid Violence Surge

The Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) has proposed a moratorium on new Islamic boarding school (ponpes) permits to the central government. The move follows a spate of violence cases within the province's pesantren and aims to allow authorities to focus on improving supervision of the existing 998 institutions. The proposal will be coordinated with the provincial governor, aligning with efforts to establish a dedicated task force for violence prevention in schools and boarding schools.

Dedication of Landis Officers in Safeguarding the Worship Rights of Elderly Pilgrims

Indonesian Hajj officers in Mecca demonstrate profound dedication by providing intensive care for thousands of elderly pilgrims. The special Landis team assists with personal needs, medical management, and spiritual guidance to ensure the elderly can complete their pilgrimage rites. Their efforts culminate in emotional farewells as pilgrims express deep gratitude for being treated like family.

The 26-Year Journey of the Hotel Sultan Dispute Until Its Execution

The Indonesian government has executed a court order to reclaim the land beneath the Hotel Sultan in Jakarta, ending a 26-year legal dispute with PT Indobuildco. The operation, involving over 3,000 security personnel, faced resistance from mobilised masses but resulted in the state regaining control of the asset. The execution follows a court ruling that the land, part of the Gelora Bung Karno complex, is a state asset whose building rights had expired.

Agriculture Minister Sends Letter to National Police Chief to Crack Down on Palm Oil Mills Unilaterally Cutting FFB Prices

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister has requested the National Police Chief to take firm action against palm oil mills that are unilaterally lowering fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices despite a strengthening US dollar and rising global CPO prices. The government intervention follows reports of irrational price drops affecting millions of smallholder farmers, with around 100 mills still refusing to raise prices. The minister is optimistic that prices will fully recover within a week.

Finance Minister Purbaya Clarifies Indonesia's Fiscal Health to China After Misinformation

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa corrected misconceptions about Indonesia's fiscal condition during a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Lan Fo'an in Beijing. He assured the Chinese minister that Indonesia's budget deficit is well under control at 0.70% of GDP, far below the legal limit. The two ministers also aligned their views on supporting multilateralism in addressing global issues.

Rosatom Continues to Explore Potential for Floating Nuclear Power Plants in Indonesia

Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom is actively pursuing a deal to build floating nuclear power plants in Indonesia, citing the technology's suitability for the archipelagic nation. CEO Alexey Likhachev confirmed recent discussions with President Prabowo Subianto focused on localising the technology, following Indonesia's expressed interest in nuclear energy for its transition. Rosatom is also expanding its nuclear partnerships across ASEAN, including projects in Vietnam, Laos, and the Philippines.

Pakistan Welcomes US-Iran Islamabad MoU, Praises Peace Diplomacy

Pakistan's President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, calling it a historic milestone for regional and global peace. The agreement, signed electronically and effective immediately, is seen as a crucial step towards resolving a conflict that has disrupted energy supplies, trade, and global economic stability. Pakistani leaders praised the diplomatic efforts of both nations and acknowledged the supportive roles played by China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Egypt, and Russia.

Ministry of Forestry to Revise Ministerial Regulation 8/2021, Emphasising Inclusive Partnerships and Customary Rights

The Ministry of Forestry is revising Ministerial Regulation P.8/2021 to improve operational governance, focusing on inclusive partnerships and integrating customary (ulayat) rights into forest planning and utilisation. The revision aims to ensure that the Job Creation Law delivers economic benefits and job creation through better coordination of Forest Management Units (KPH).

TAP Untuk Negeri Supports Child Nutrition in Remote Berau Areas

PT Anugerah Agung Prima Abadi (AAPA) has launched a programme to distribute nutritious milk to schoolchildren in remote villages of Berau, East Kalimantan, to support their growth and development. The initiative, part of the 'TAP Untuk Negeri' programme, targets students at two primary schools in Muara Lesan and Lesan Dayak. It aims to complement government efforts to reduce stunting and improve human capital development ahead of Indonesia's 2045 vision.

Public increasingly scrutinises drinking water quality for health

Indonesian consumers are paying greater attention to the quality of their drinking water, driven by rising health awareness. PT Coway International Indonesia has responded by launching a new water purifier, the Slim Stand, which combines reverse osmosis and dual UV sterilisation technology. The product is designed for modern urban households and has obtained the Indonesian National Standard (SNI) certification.

BI Rate Rises to 5.75%, Check the Most Stable Mortgage Interest Rates

Bank Indonesia has raised its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 5.75%, a move expected to trigger adjustments in bank lending rates, including mortgages. The article provides a list of banks with the most stable base lending rates for mortgages and advises floating-rate debtors to reassess their repayment capacity.

Minister: Infrastructure Strengthened to Mitigate 'Godzilla' El Niño

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has outlined a series of infrastructure measures to mitigate the impact of the 'Godzilla' El Niño phenomenon on national food production. The government is focusing on building reservoirs, irrigation pumps, and deep wells, as well as optimising swamp land and opening new rice fields. Current rice stock levels and standing crop estimates suggest national reserves can meet demand for the next 10 to 11 months.

Latest Conditions at the Horse Statue Protest in Central Jakarta

Student groups continue to demonstrate at the Horse Statue in Central Jakarta, demanding a total evaluation of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Tensions briefly escalated when protesters attempted to burn a sack of dry leaves, prompting police intervention. An earlier counter-protest supporting the programme's continuation had already dispersed.

Sigi Earthquake, Central Sulawesi: 3 Residents Dead, 1,652 Homes Damaged

The death toll from the earthquake in Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, has risen to three, with two additional victims succumbing to pre-existing medical conditions triggered by the quake. The disaster has affected over 6,400 people across four sub-districts, leaving 1,652 homes damaged and dozens of public facilities, including schools and places of worship, in ruins. Authorities continue to collect data as reports from affected areas are still arriving at the emergency command post.

Defence Ministry Reveals Why 30,000 Prospective Red-and-White Cooperative Managers Undergo 45-Day Military Training

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has confirmed that over 35,000 prospective managers of the Red-and-White Village and Fishermen's Cooperatives will undergo 45 days of basic military training. The programme, conducted across 67 TNI units nationwide, aims to instil discipline, leadership, and a strong work ethic. The training is a prerequisite for their roles in the government-backed cooperative initiative.

Pandalungan 2 Train Occupancy on Gambir-Jember Route Reaches 97.5 Percent

The newly launched Pandalungan 2 train service connecting Gambir in Jakarta to Jember in East Java recorded a 97.5 percent occupancy rate on its inaugural journey. The high demand, with 390 passengers boarding from the Jakarta operational area, underscores the public's need for comfortable long-distance rail travel. The service, operated by PT KAI, is part of a broader commitment to expanding travel options and improving connectivity to East Java.

Woman with Suspected Mental Illness Stays with Deceased Husband for a Week, Believing He Was Ill

A woman in Serang, Banten, believed to be suffering from a mental disorder, lived with her husband's decomposing body for nearly a week, telling neighbours he was merely sick and refusing to eat. The body of the 68-year-old man was discovered after residents investigated a foul odour they initially thought was a dead rat. Police suspect the man had been dead for six days, highlighting a tragic case involving mental health and social isolation.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme Distribution Suspended During School Holidays

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has announced a temporary halt to the distribution of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during the school holiday period. The suspension will be used to reorganise and standardise the programme's operational governance to improve efficiency. The policy applies to all beneficiaries, including schoolchildren, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers.

Baznas distributes education scholarships through OKU Cerdas Programme

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) of Ogan Komering Ulu Regency has begun distributing educational scholarships to high-achieving students from underprivileged families under the OKU Cerdas Programme. The initiative, funded by public zakat, infak, and sedekah donations, targets 100 beneficiaries this year, with an initial 25 recipients ranging from primary school pupils to university students. The programme is one of five flagship local government schemes designed to improve welfare across education, religious development, economic empowerment, health, and social aid.

Who is the Ideal Figure to Lead the Former Hotel Sultan After State Takeover?

Following the government's execution of the former Hotel Sultan site, property experts emphasise that the new manager must be an experienced developer with strong financial capacity and expertise in integrated mixed-use projects. The government aims to redevelop the strategic Gelora Bung Karno area quickly, potentially as a transit-oriented development, and recover state assets under President Prabowo's directive.

Indonesia eyes major role in US$3.56 trillion global halal market

Indonesia is positioning itself to capture a larger share of the rapidly expanding global halal market, projected to reach US$3.56 trillion by 2029. With domestic Muslim consumer spending estimated at Rp11,182 trillion, the government sees a strategic opportunity to boost local production and import substitution. The Industry Ministry is intensifying efforts to assist small businesses in meeting mandatory halal certification requirements ahead of the October deadline.

Bandung City Government Beautifies Merdeka Street with New Bicycle Markings

The Bandung municipal administration has installed dedicated bicycle lane markings on Jalan Merdeka to improve cyclist safety and promote eco-friendly mobility. The initiative, part of a broader urban beautification and traffic management effort, also includes the placement of concrete barriers at Taman Cipaganti to prevent wrong-way driving. Local cyclists have welcomed the new markings, citing increased safety, particularly during peak weekend usage.

South Jakarta alliance says MBG crucial for children in remote areas

The South Jakarta Community Alliance has voiced strong support for President Prabowo's free meals programme (MBG), calling it a vital investment in Indonesia's future and children's global competitiveness. Coordinator Fakhri Ikbar stressed that any implementation shortcomings should be addressed collaboratively rather than used to create division. The group also backed other government priorities such as anti-corruption efforts and downstream industrialisation, linking them to improved welfare for lower-income communities.

Saline Coastal Land Transformed into Integrated Food and Fisheries Hub

A collaborative programme in Batang, Central Java, is converting high-salinity coastal land into productive agricultural and fisheries zones. The Minapadi Salin initiative integrates biosaline rice, saline tilapia, and seaweed cultivation to bolster national food security and create new income streams for coastal communities. The project, involving state gas company PGN, BRIN, and local government, has already demonstrated significant economic returns in other regions.

Bandung Job Fair 2026 Draws Crowds of Job Seekers

The Job Fair Future Connect 2026 in Central Bandung, initiated by the city's Manpower Office, has been met with enthusiasm from job seekers who praise its efficiency. The event integrates digital registration via the 'New Bimma' app, allowing fresh graduates and other applicants to connect directly with multiple companies in one location. Participants hope the government will hold such events regularly to help reduce unemployment in the city.

Thailand Revives Rp 495 Trillion Land Bridge Project to Rival Malacca Strait

Thailand is reviving an ambitious 1 trillion baht (Rp 495 trillion) 'Land Bridge' project to create a logistics corridor connecting the Gulf of Thailand to the Andaman Sea, offering an alternative to the congested Malacca Strait. The plan involves building two deep-sea ports linked by a 90-kilometre railway, promising to cut shipping times and costs, but faces significant local opposition, complex logistical hurdles, and a lack of major investors. Experts suggest the project is economically ambitious and unlikely to rival the Malacca Strait as a global transit route, though it may serve as a strategic domestic corridor.

Women in North Jakarta Trained to Manage Organic Waste to Preserve the Environment

Hundreds of women in North Jakarta participated in an 'Eco Enzyme Workshop' to learn how to convert household organic waste into useful products. The initiative, a collaboration between the local PKK and a church, aims to raise environmental awareness and supports the National Clean River Movement 2026. The event also contributed to a mass eco-enzyme production attempt for an Indonesian world record.

Siemens Tech Summit 2026 Forges Partnerships to Accelerate Indonesia's Digital Industry and Energy Transition

The Siemens Tech Summit 2026 in Indonesia convened over 1,000 industry players to accelerate digital transformation and the transition to net-zero emissions. The event featured the launch of the 'X' digital platform and saw the signing of strategic partnerships with Accenture, PLN Enjiniring, and Telkomsel to boost industrial digitalisation and energy resilience. Siemens also expanded its educational commitment by granting software to seven additional universities to develop local engineering talent.

Easy Ways to Check and Print Family Cards Online, No Need to Visit Dukcapil

Indonesian citizens can now verify and print their Family Cards (Kartu Keluarga) digitally without visiting a civil registry office. The government provides multiple online channels including the IKD mobile app, the official Dukcapil website, email, social media, and a hotline. Self-printed cards featuring a QR code electronic signature are legally valid.

Indonesia explores China partnership on traditional medicine center

Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon has welcomed a proposed traditional medicine centre with China, envisioning it as a platform for cultural expression and wellness promotion centred on jamu. The minister also sees opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation into the revitalisation of historic sites and old towns across Indonesia. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to preserve cultural heritage and develop human resources in the cultural sector.

DPR Commission III Urges Police to Consider Naming Wife of Hanania Travel Director as Suspect

House Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has urged investigators to consider naming Anisa, the wife and commissioner of Hanania Travel's director, as a suspect in an alleged hajj and umrah fraud case. Police currently maintain her status as a witness to help trace assets, but lawmakers argue her corporate role and spousal relationship warrant deeper investigation. The case involves total estimated losses of Rp95.22 billion, with Rp27.52 billion yet to be refunded to victims.

European Union Formally Tightens Migration Policy

The European Parliament has approved stricter migration rules granting member states broader authority to deport rejected asylum seekers. The new policy allows for the establishment of return hubs in non-EU countries, while still requiring formal approval from all 27 member states before implementation.

South Sumatra BPBD Proposes Four Additional Water Bombing Helicopters

South Sumatra's disaster mitigation agency has requested four additional water bombing helicopters to bolster firefighting capabilities ahead of the peak dry season. The province currently operates six aircraft and seeks to expand the fleet to eight water bombers and two patrol helicopters to combat forest and land fires.

Depok City Government Guarantees 2026-2027 Student Admission Free from Seat Buying and Graft

The Depok City Government has issued a firm guarantee that the 2026-2027 state junior high school (SMPN) admission process will be free from seat buying and gratification. The Head of the Education Office emphasised a zero-tolerance policy towards fraud, with strict sanctions promised for any violations. The initiative aligns with central government directives to ensure a transparent and fair selection process.