Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 501-550 of 1,644 articles

Education Ministry: Friendly SPMB Aims to Eliminate 'Favourite School' Label

Indonesia's Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education asserts that the new 'Friendly' Student Admission System (SPMB) is designed to erase the stigma of 'favourite schools' by standardising quality across all state schools. The initiative includes enhanced teacher training in fields like coding and AI, alongside infrastructure improvements, and is supported by the Corruption Eradication Commission to ensure integrity in public education services.

Yogyakarta Police Confirm Detained Intel Officer Is Their Member, Explain Presence at UMY

The Yogyakarta Regional Police (Polda DIY) have confirmed that an intelligence officer detained by students at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) was their personnel. The police explained the officer was on duty monitoring a protest to ensure participants returned safely to campus. The misunderstanding has been resolved through communication with university officials and students.

Rp100.1 Trillion Budgeted for Sumatra Recovery

President Prabowo Subianto has approved a three-year budget of Rp100.1 trillion for post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction in Sumatra. The funds will be distributed across 23 main ministries and 10 supporting agencies, with the first tranche of Rp38.9 trillion allocated for 2026. The programme aims to restore critical infrastructure and public facilities, with regional governments also receiving Rp10.6 trillion in direct transfers.

Student Protest at Subang DPRD Turns Chaotic, Fence Collapses and Tyres Burned

A student demonstration in Subang, West Java, escalated into a physical confrontation with police, resulting in the collapse of the local parliament building's fence. The protesters, demanding economic relief and opposing non-subsidised fuel price hikes, also burned tyres on the main road. The rally highlighted growing public discontent over rising living costs and calls for stricter oversight of government spending.

OJK: IHSG Begins Recovery, Market Liquidity and Fundamentals Remain Solid

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that despite global uncertainties pressuring the IHSG, market resilience is evident through adequate liquidity and improving transaction activity. The regulator noted that the stock index is showing signs of recovery, supported by solid fundamentals, a growing investor base of 27 million, and strong corporate fundraising.

Jakarta Anniversary: North Jakarta Administration Presents 'Green Symphony of a Global City' Decorations

The North Jakarta Parks and Urban Forest Sub-agency has installed floral decorations themed 'Green Symphony of a Global City' across several public spaces to celebrate Jakarta's 499th anniversary. The initiative aims to symbolise the city's growth as a global hub while emphasising environmental sustainability. The installations will remain until the end of June, offering residents a refreshing and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Minister of Agriculture Confirms Rice Self-Sufficiency, No Import Permits Issued in 2025

Minister of Agriculture Amran Sulaiman has confirmed that Indonesia did not issue any medium rice import permits in 2025, citing a national surplus. Government rice stocks currently stand at 5.2 million tonnes, far exceeding Bulog's storage capacity, with additional reserves in the field and downstream sectors. The surplus is projected to cover national consumption needs for up to 11 months and has helped keep rice from driving inflation for two consecutive years.

Hotel Sultan Officially Taken Over by the State, What Is the Fate of Its Employees?

The Indonesian government has assured that employees affected by the state takeover of Hotel Sultan will not be abandoned. The Ministry of State Secretariat has instructed the Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) to register and attend to the workers' welfare. A dedicated post has been established for data collection and verification, with coordination planned with the Ministry of Manpower to ensure workers' rights are upheld.

KAI Strengthens PSO Trains for Public Economy, KA Cikuray and Farmer-Trader Train Provide Productive Access

State-owned railway operator PT KAI is enhancing its Public Service Obligation (PSO) train services to support economic activity, introducing 'People's Economy Trains' and 'Farmer-Trader Trains' on key routes. The KA Cikuray service, connecting Garut to Jakarta, has served over 2.28 million passengers since 2022, while the new dedicated carriages for farmers and traders aim to provide affordable access for small businesses and daily commuters. The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Transportation, reflects a policy to align rail services with the needs of workers, students, and local producers.

Cartenz Task Force Shoots Dead Armed Criminal Group Commander in Yahukimo

Indonesian security forces shot and killed a commander of an armed criminal group (KKB) in Yahukimo, Papua Highlands, during an operation on Thursday. The suspect, identified as AP, was on a wanted list and linked to multiple shootings in the area, including an attack that injured two civilians in April 2026. The Cartenz Peace Task Force stated the action was taken after the suspect ignored warning shots and attempted to flee into the forest.

Yogyakarta Police Clarify Incident of Intel Officer Detained by UMY Students

The Yogyakarta Regional Police have clarified that an intelligence officer briefly detained by students at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta was on an official assignment to safeguard a public protest. The police described the incident as a misunderstanding that has since been resolved through dialogue with university officials and student representatives. Authorities confirmed the officer was part of a team ensuring the safety of demonstrators returning to campus.

Mall Security Guard in Tambora Steals IDR 70 Million Worth of Groceries for Online Gambling

A security guard at a mall in Tambora, West Jakarta, has been arrested for repeatedly stealing groceries worth a total of IDR 70 million over several months. The stolen goods were sold, with the proceeds used to support his family and fund his online gambling addiction. The suspect faces charges under the new Criminal Code for theft.

Minister claims Indonesia achieves food self-sufficiency based on FAO standards

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman asserts that Indonesia has reached food self-sufficiency according to FAO criteria, with imports accounting for only 4-5% of total domestic production. He noted that out of 12 strategic food commodities, eight are already in surplus and being exported, while only garlic, beef, and soybeans still require imports.

DPR Commission III Suggests Hanania Travel Commissioner Also Be Named a Suspect

House Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has urged the police to consider naming the wife of a travel fraud suspect as an additional suspect, citing concerns over potential evidence tampering. The police stated the wife is currently a witness to help trace assets, but did not reject the suggestion.

Homes Demolished and Flattened for Depok Road Widening Project

Residents in Sawangan, Depok, have begun demolishing their properties to make way for a strategic road-widening project. The initiative targets Jalan Enggram and Jalan Pemuda to create an alternative route aimed at easing chronic traffic congestion. Approximately seven buildings, including homes and a kindergarten, have been dismantled so far.

Minister AHY: Future Civil Servants Must Be Adaptive to Social and Political Dynamics

Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has stressed that future civil servants (ASN) must be equipped with the capacity to understand social and political dynamics, not just technical skills. Speaking at the Institute of Domestic Governance (IPDN) in Sumedang, he argued this adaptive ability is crucial for bridging central policies with local needs and addressing regional development disparities. Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya echoed the call for graduates to be politically astute while maintaining professional neutrality.

Indonesia secures US$17 bln AIIB funding for development

Indonesia has secured a US$17 billion financing commitment from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank for development projects between 2025 and 2029. The agreement, reached during Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa's visit to Beijing, forms part of a multi-year rolling pipeline framework. AIIB also plans to open a representative office in Jakarta, signalling strong confidence in Indonesia's fiscal management and economic prospects.

Gypsum Use for Building Interiors More Efficient

The use of gypsum boards for interior partitions in Indonesia is expected to rise due to its efficiency and lighter weight compared to brick walls. Industry players note that gypsum reduces structural load and speeds up construction, though adoption is hampered by misconceptions about its durability. Knauf-Jayaboard has opened an experience centre in Jakarta to educate architects and contractors on modern drywall solutions.

UMY Students Detain DIY Police Intelligence Officer, University Pursues Peaceful Resolution

A protest at Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) nearly escalated after students discovered an undercover intelligence officer from the Yogyakarta Regional Police on campus without prior coordination. University officials mediated the situation, securing the officer's release after police clarification, and emphasised the importance of dialogue over physical confrontation. The incident has prompted calls for a review of intelligence deployment protocols during demonstrations.

Jakarta Transportation Agency Provides 8 Parking Pockets for Betawi Ulama Grand Haul

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has arranged eight designated parking areas with capacity for 1,840 cars and 3,180 motorcycles for the Betawi Ulama and Habaib Grand Haul at Monas on Friday. Authorities urge attendees to prioritise public transport and avoid roadside parking to prevent congestion during the event, which is expected to draw 20,000 participants as part of Jakarta's 499th anniversary celebrations.

Perbanas: MSME Business Model Revitalisation Needed to Boost Lending

The Indonesian Banks Association (Perbanas) has called for a revitalisation of micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) business models to stimulate credit growth and strengthen the national economy. Research indicates 88 percent of informal MSMEs do not access bank credit, relying instead on personal funds, while overall MSME lending contracted 0.47 percent year-on-year as of February 2026. Perbanas recommends strengthening business ecosystems, integrating MSMEs into supply chains, and tailoring financing policies to formal and informal segments.

MBG Partners Threaten Palace Protest Over Holiday Suspension of Free Nutritious Meals

The Himpunan Mitra Dapur Generasi Emas (HMD Gemas) is threatening a mass protest at the Presidential Palace if the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) does not revoke a circular suspending the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during holidays. The group argues the policy unfairly cuts incentives for 1.2 million volunteers and deprives priority beneficiaries, including pregnant women and toddlers, of essential nutrition. They are demanding consultation before any operational changes are implemented.

Vice President Invites Students to See Firsthand Benefits of Free Meals in Underdeveloped Regions

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has urged university students to witness the benefits of the Free Nutritious Meal programme in Indonesia's frontier, outermost, and underdeveloped (3T) regions. During a visit to a primary school in Ende, East Nusa Tenggara, he emphasised the programme's importance for child nutrition and stunting prevention, while acknowledging the need for improved governance. He also highlighted the government's shift towards Indonesia-centric development to close regional disparities.

APKB Hopes Government Policies Can Maintain Industrial and Investment Competitiveness

The Association of Regional Businessmen (APKB) is urging the Indonesian government to revise bonded zone and customs regulations to safeguard export-oriented industries amid global economic headwinds. Key concerns include a proposed cut in the domestic sales quota from 50% to 25% and the freezing of customs facilities, which the group says threatens production, cash flow, and employment. APKB has proposed proportional administrative sanctions and strategic policies on local content requirements and bonded zone management to balance oversight with business sustainability.

Whoosh Tickets Discounted for 2026 School Holidays, Check Terms and How to Buy

Indonesia's high-speed rail service Whoosh is offering a group travel discount of up to 20% during the 2026 school holiday period. The promotion requires a minimum of 20 passengers for a single trip or 10 passengers for a round-trip journey. Bookings must be made through the official WhatsApp service.

Free Nutritious Meal Distribution Halted During School Holidays, Saving Over Rp 3 Trillion

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during the 2026 school holidays, resulting in budget savings exceeding Rp 3 trillion. The suspension, effective from 22 June to 23 July, will also be used to restructure the programme and reassess beneficiaries. BGN has identified 76 schools in Java as capable of meeting nutritional needs independently, allowing funds to be redirected to more vulnerable groups.

South Kalimantan Police Foil Smuggling of 128.7 Kg of Methamphetamine from International Syndicate

The South Kalimantan Regional Police have intercepted 128.7 kilograms of methamphetamine worth over IDR 231 billion, arresting five suspects linked to an international network. The drugs, smuggled via sea routes from Java, were destined for mining and plantation areas in the province.

National Economic Condition Assessed as Still Resilient

Student organisations and a government official have assessed that Indonesia's current economic and political situation is not comparable to the pre-1998 Reformasi crisis. They argue that democratic space and national stability remain functional, allowing for policy improvements through existing mechanisms. The discussion emphasised the need for constructive criticism to address ongoing issues such as staple goods prices and job availability.

Execution of Hotel Sultan Land Turns Chaotic

The court-ordered eviction of land occupied by Hotel Sultan in Jakarta descended into chaos as protesters threw stones and bottles at security forces. Officers responded with riot shields and water cannon to disperse the crowd and maintain order. The operation continued under heavy guard to enforce the court ruling and prevent further unrest.

West Lombok Government Intervenes After Father Burns Daughter's Certificates Over Early Marriage

The West Lombok Social Services and Women's Protection Agency has stepped in to assist a schoolgirl whose father burned her academic certificates and uniforms in frustration over her early marriage. Officials are coordinating with the education department to reissue the destroyed documents and will provide psychological support to ensure the child continues her schooling.

BI Says Rise in Non-Resident SRBI Holdings Supports Rupiah Strengthening

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo stated that increased foreign ownership of Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) to Rp238.1 trillion has positively contributed to the rupiah's recent appreciation. The central bank has deployed a series of stabilisation measures, including raising SRBI interest rates and intensifying foreign exchange interventions, to counter global uncertainty and high domestic corporate demand for foreign currency. BI expects the rupiah to remain stable and strengthen further, supported by attractive yields and solid economic growth prospects.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi Guarantees Legal Protection for Teachers Against Criminalisation

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has pledged to shield teachers from criminalisation over student discipline, positioning himself at the forefront of their legal defence. The provincial government is also strengthening administrative advocacy for school principals and expanding educational access through a scholarship programme for 120,000 students. The scholarship scheme includes a mandatory savings component aimed at fostering financial discipline and character development.

South Sulawesi Rehabilitates Bontonyeleng Irrigation to Boost Water Distribution

South Sulawesi Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman has initiated the rehabilitation of the Bontonyeleng irrigation system in Bulukumba Regency. The project, part of a larger Rp93 billion multi-year package, aims to improve water distribution to 1,200 hectares of farmland. The upgrade is expected to increase irrigation capacity by 65% and support regional food security.

Tito: Post-Disaster Recovery in Sumatra Shows Progress

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian reports positive progress in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of disaster-affected areas in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. President Prabowo Subianto has approved a budget of Rp100.1 trillion through to 2028, with an additional Rp10.6 trillion in regional transfers already disbursed. Tito urged ministries and local governments to accelerate budget disbursement and implementation to expedite recovery efforts.

IHSG Weakens 0.78% Ahead of MSCI Announcement and FTSE Rebalancing

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 0.78% on Thursday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of key global index reviews. Market participants are awaiting the MSCI Global Market Accessibility Review and the FTSE Russell rebalancing, alongside digesting Bank Indonesia's latest interest rate hike to 5.75%.

Bekasi Industrial Estate Targets Land Sales for Logistics and Data Centres

PT Bekasi Fajar Industrial Estate aims for Rp600 billion in land sales in 2026, focusing on logistics, consumer goods, and data centre sectors. The company reported Rp422 billion in sales for 2025 and saw its Q1 2026 revenue double year-on-year, turning a net loss into a profit.

West Sumatra Governor Instructs Formation of Subsidised Fuel Task Force to Tackle SPBU Queues

West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah has ordered all district and city governments to establish a task force to monitor subsidised fuel distribution, aiming to resolve persistent queues at petrol stations. The initiative seeks to curb misuse of subsidised diesel and petrol, ensuring supplies reach entitled recipients and easing disruptions to the local economy. Authorities have also imposed a daily purchase limit of 50 litres for private vehicles to promote equitable distribution.

Kites Disrupt Flights, Supadio Airport Receives Five Safety-Threatening Reports

Supadio International Airport in Pontianak recorded five reports of kite activity endangering flight safety between January and May 2026. The airport management is intensifying public education and cross-sector collaboration to mitigate the risks posed by kites in the operational safety zone. Authorities warn that flying kites near the airport violates multiple regulations and can result in legal consequences.

JCI and Rupiah Close Weaker Ahead of MSCI Announcement

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) and the Indonesian rupiah both closed lower on Thursday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of key MSCI market classification reviews. The benchmark index fell 0.78% to 6,172, while the currency weakened 32 points to Rp 17,794 against the US dollar. Analysts attributed the decline to pre-emptive caution and Bank Indonesia's recent decision to raise its benchmark interest rate to 5.75% to stabilise the rupiah and manage inflation.

Secret Meeting of Global Elites at G7 Summit to Determine Humanity's Future with AI

Top technology and political leaders convened a closed-door meeting during the G7 summit in France to discuss global governance of artificial intelligence. Key AI executives proposed a US-led international coalition to set standards and rules for the rapidly advancing technology. The discussions addressed growing concerns over national security risks, export controls, and the need for structured access to cutting-edge AI models.

WALHI West Sumatra Criticises Rp1.18 Billion Budget for Official Facilities

The Indonesian Forum for the Environment (WALHI) in West Sumatra has condemned the provincial government's allocation of over Rp1.18 billion for official amenities, calling it a distortion of priorities amid a worsening ecological crisis. The group argues the funds should be redirected towards disaster victim housing and environmental rehabilitation, highlighting ongoing threats from illegal mining, flooding, and coastal abrasion.

Maktour CEO Laughs Off Allegations of Illegal Gain from Hajj Quotas

Fuad Hasan Masyhur, CEO of PT Makassar Toraja (Maktour), dismissed allegations that his company received Rp27.8 billion in illegal gains from additional hajj quotas. He was questioned as a witness in a corruption case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and others, which the BPK estimates caused Rp622 billion in state losses.

Papua Tengah Health Office Enhances Health Worker Competency in Dogiyai

The Papua Tengah Health Office is conducting technical guidance to improve the clinical and technical competencies of health workers in Dogiyai Regency. The two-day programme aims to align local health service standards with national benchmarks, particularly to support equitable healthcare in the new autonomous region. Officials emphasised that continuous capacity building is essential for delivering quality services, especially in remote areas with limited resources.

East Jakarta Administration Intensifies Community Clean-Up and Waste Segregation for Jakarta's 499th Anniversary

The East Jakarta administration is expanding community clean-up activities, with a focus on waste segregation at the source, as part of the city's 499th anniversary celebrations. The initiative aims to increase public awareness of environmental cleanliness and strategic waste management to reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills. The programme, running until July, involves monitoring and evaluation to accelerate independent community-level waste management.

List of Countries Most Dependent on Middle Eastern Oil

Several of the world's largest economies, particularly in Asia, remain heavily reliant on crude oil imports from the Middle East, exposing them to significant geopolitical risk. Data from the International Energy Agency reveals Japan's dependence reached 77% of domestic consumption in 2024, while Eritrea tops the list at 91%. Any disruption in supply routes like the Strait of Hormuz could trigger energy cost spikes, inflationary pressure, and industrial slowdowns in these vulnerable nations.

President approves Rp100.1 trillion budget for post-disaster recovery

President Prabowo Subianto has approved a Rp100.1 trillion budget for post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction over three years, channelled through 23 ministries and agencies. The funding will be disbursed in stages from 2026 to 2028, with regional governments also receiving Rp10.6 trillion in transfers for Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra. Officials report that 97 per cent of temporary housing has already been built as recovery efforts progress.

What is Trump Hiding? Deal with Iran Sparks a Storm of Questions in the US

President Donald Trump's announcement of a preliminary deal with Iran to halt hostilities has ignited controversy in Washington rather than being hailed as a diplomatic breakthrough. Lawmakers from both parties, including Republicans, have expressed frustration and cautious optimism as the administration has yet to release the text or details of the agreement. The lack of transparency has triggered a fierce debate among policymakers and Congress.

PASTI Task Force Halts Operations of Universal Peak and BAFI Group Indonesia

Indonesia's Task Force for the Eradication of Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas PASTI) has shut down Universal Peak and BAFI Group Indonesia for operating without licences. Universal Peak allegedly offered fictitious IPO share allocations, while BAFI Group purportedly ran a fraudulent scheme to resolve online loans by directing victims to take on new debt and deliberately default. The task force has blocked their digital access and will coordinate with law enforcement for further action.

GBK Reveals Fate of Guests Who Booked Hotel Sultan, Sets Up Crisis Centre

Following the court-ordered execution of Hotel Sultan, the Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) management has established a crisis centre to assist guests with existing bookings. The centre will help redirect guests to other hotels in the Senayan area, though no compensation will be provided as contracts were with the previous operator, PT Indobuildco.

East Java Education Office Strengthens Vocational Education to Face the AI Era

The East Java Education Office is pursuing international collaboration, including a Letter of Intent with Shanghai's HGI Research Centre, to bolster vocational training and digital talent development. The initiative aims to equip students with advanced digital skills and global perspectives to meet evolving industry demands in the age of artificial intelligence. A delegation visited vocational institutions in Shanghai to study industry-integrated learning models and AI implementation in education.