Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,644 articles

Hanania Travel Victims Approach Parliament, Demand Return of Rights and Funds

Approximately 3,000 victims of the alleged Hanania Travel Umrah fraud have appealed to the Indonesian House of Representatives to recover their losses. The victims suspect serious mismanagement and potential money laundering, citing cases where payments vanished within days of the owner's arrest. They are seeking parliamentary intervention to ensure their material and non-material rights are restored.

Pramono to Inaugurate H.R. Rasuna Said Road Revitalisation This Week

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is set to inaugurate the revitalised H.R. Rasuna Said area on 21 June 2026 as part of the city's 499th anniversary celebrations. The event will also feature a Car Free Day, the groundbreaking for the Dukuh Atas pedestrian deck, and a waste sorting campaign. Further festivities include the inauguration of an Ancol-JIS bridge, free public transport on select dates, and a cultural tribute to Betawi religious figures.

Police: Hanania Travel Victims Estimated at 3,000, Losses Reach Rp95 Billion

Jakarta police have revealed that the alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving umrah travel operator Hanania Travel may have affected around 3,000 victims, with total losses currently estimated at Rp95.22 billion. The figure is expected to rise as a public complaints post has been opened. Investigators also disclosed that the company had been experiencing financial difficulties since 2023 and was operating a 'robbing Peter to pay Paul' scheme to cover operational costs.

Manpower Ministry Accelerates BPVP Transformation into Modern 'Mini Campus'

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower is accelerating the transformation of Vocational Training and Productivity Centres (BPVP) nationwide into integrated 'mini campuses'. The initiative aims to modernise facilities and align training with industry needs to produce a more innovative and competitive workforce. The ministry targets a minimum 80 per cent absorption rate for graduates from these revamped centres.

Minister: Downstreaming of 870,000 hectares of smallholder plantations accelerated

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman reported to President Prabowo that the government is accelerating the downstreaming of smallholder plantations covering 870,000 hectares. The programme includes planting commodities like cocoa, coffee, cashew, coconut, and sugarcane, alongside building processing facilities in regions such as North Maluku and Central Sulawesi. The Minister also noted Rp3.2 trillion in agricultural aid for Papua this year, which the President directed to be continued.

Video: The Urgency of Tightening Indonesia's Critical Mineral Exports

The government is urged to tighten exports of critical and strategic minerals to strengthen Indonesia's position in the global mineral ecosystem and boost downstream value. Irwandy Arif of the Indonesia Mining Institute highlights the importance of commodities like nickel for future technologies such as batteries and defence. The discussion follows calls from DEN Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan for stricter controls to support domestic processing industries.

KPK Seizes Three Minimarkets, a Salon, and a House Belonging to Fadia Arafiq in Semarang

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized multiple assets from inactive Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq, including a house in Semarang and three franchise retail stores. The seizures are linked to an alleged corruption case involving the manipulation of outsourcing service tenders, which reportedly funnelled Rp 46 billion to her family's company. Investigators are also probing the regent's purchase of approximately one hectare of land during her tenure.

Pro-MBG Protesters Meet Deputy Minister, Offer Input on Free Nutritious Meals Programme

A group supporting Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme met with Deputy Minister of State Secretariat Juri Ardiantoro in Jakarta to voice their backing and propose improvements. The demonstrators, calling themselves the Indonesian Children's Nutrition Fighters, urged the government to continue the programme while suggesting better oversight, including a call centre for complaints about meal quality. The government was praised for its receptive dialogue and commitment to the initiative.

Bomb Explodes Near IDF Post in Southern Lebanon: Sergeant Killed, Seven Soldiers Wounded

An improvised explosive device detonated near an Israeli military command sector in southern Lebanon, killing a senior sergeant and wounding seven other soldiers, including senior officers. The incident occurred during an ongoing military operation in the Tyre region. It follows a separate drone attack hours earlier that left five more Israeli troops injured, one critically.

US Media Unanimously Slam Trump Over Iran MoU: 'Trump Played by Iran!'

Major American media outlets have launched a coordinated critique of President Donald Trump's memorandum of understanding with Iran, arguing it abandons pre-war objectives while granting Tehran substantial financial concessions. Critics across the political spectrum, including the typically supportive Fox News, contend the deal rewards Iran without requiring the dismantling of its nuclear programme. The agreement, which involves facilitating US$300 billion in reconstruction funds, is being described as a significant foreign policy gamble in Trump's second term.

NTB offers green investment and tourism opportunities to Oman

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government has proposed a range of green energy, tourism, and marine sector investments to Oman. Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal highlighted projects including solar and wind power plants, premium resort developments, and fisheries downstreaming. The initiative aims to attract sustainable, high-quality foreign investment to accelerate the region's economic transformation.

BI: Digital Economic and Financial Transaction Growth Remains High in May

Bank Indonesia reports that digital economic and financial transactions continued to grow robustly in May 2026, with payment volumes rising 28.14% year-on-year. The expansion was driven by increased adoption of digital payments, mobile and internet banking, and a surge in QRIS usage. The central bank also noted significant growth in large-value transfers and currency in circulation.

Trade Ministry Denies Finding Minyakita Priced Above Rp20,000

The Ministry of Trade has refuted reports of Minyakita cooking oil being sold above the highest retail price (HET) of Rp15,700 per litre, following an inspection at Palmerah Market in Jakarta. Officials confirmed that retailers were complying with the regulated price scheme and warned of criminal sanctions, including up to five years' imprisonment, for violations. The government also assured sufficient stock levels, with Bulog holding 20,000 tonnes nationally to meet the monthly demand of 254,000 tonnes.

UNICEF: 247 children killed in Lebanon since March 2026

UNICEF reports that 27 children have been killed and 992 injured in Lebanon since the escalation of hostilities in March 2026, with hundreds of thousands more affected by displacement and disrupted access to basic services. The UN agency warns that prolonged violence is severely impacting the mental and emotional well-being of over 770,000 children, while unexploded ordnance prevents families from returning home. The statement comes amid a newly finalised peace memorandum between Iran and the US, though Israel's prime minister has indicated its military will remain in regional security zones as needed.

2026 Forest Fires Enter 'Code Red', Major Haze Risk Looms

An IPB University professor warns that Indonesia's 2026 forest and land fire threat has reached a 'code red' level, with increased incidents occurring even before the peak dry season and full El Niño development. He cautions that failure to take aggressive early action could lead to a repeat of the severe haze crises of 2015 or 2019. The expert highlights economic incentives for land burning and the rapid drying of vegetation following La Niña as key exacerbating factors.

No More Flood Victims in Sumatra Living in Tents, Says Home Affairs Minister

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian reports significant progress in post-flood rehabilitation across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. Key indicators show all healthcare facilities and schools have resumed operations, and the construction of temporary housing is 97% complete. The most notable achievement is that no displaced residents remain in emergency tents, though rebuilding permanent infrastructure remains a priority.

Police trace Hanania boss's assets to recover victim losses

Indonesian police are tracing the personal and corporate assets of Hanania Travel's boss to recover losses from an alleged Umrah travel fraud totalling around Rp95.22 billion. Authorities have blocked three main accounts and are developing the case into money laundering, coordinating with the financial intelligence unit PPATK. Efforts also include exploring a potential acquisition of the company by a more responsible party, though audit hurdles remain.

Viral Alleged Sexual Harassment at PKB 2026 Opening, Satpol PP Responds

A video alleging sexual harassment at the opening of the Bali Arts Festival (PKB) 2026 in Denpasar has gone viral, prompting a response from the Bali Public Order Agency (Satpol PP). The agency expressed regret over the incident and pledged to intensify security patrols, while also noting the victim did not file an official report, complicating efforts to identify the perpetrator.

Bahlil May Revise Coal Price for PLN

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia is considering revising the domestic market obligation coal price for state utility PLN, currently set at USD 70 per tonne, as rising production costs and supply challenges for medium-calorie coal mount. The government aims to balance the interests of PLN and mining suppliers to ensure supply sustainability without burdening electricity costs.

BI Reveals Indonesian Banking Stress Test Results: Remains Resilient

Bank Indonesia's latest stress test indicates the nation's banking sector remains robust against global risks, including the ongoing Middle East conflict. Strong corporate profitability and ample liquidity underpin the sector's stability, with capital adequacy and credit growth remaining high. The central bank continues to coordinate macroprudential policies to safeguard financial system stability.

DPR Reminds Students to Remain Critical Despite Being Invited on Gibran's Working Visit

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has urged university students to maintain their critical stance towards government programmes, even when participating in official working visits with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The reminder follows a recent incident where students disrupted a discussion forum involving three high-ranking officials. The Vice President's office confirmed that several students accompanied him on trips to Ende, Gorontalo, and Papua to oversee the Free Nutritious Meals programme and the Red and White Village Cooperatives.

North Jakarta Administration Holds Blood Donation Drive to Celebrate Jakarta's 499th Anniversary

The North Jakarta city administration organised a blood donation event as part of the city's 499th anniversary celebrations. The initiative aims to boost blood stocks and demonstrate social solidarity, with a target of collecting 150 blood bags. The Indonesian Red Cross also honoured regular donors, including a public order officer who has donated 24 times.

Pakistan Welcomes Role in Brokering US-Iran Peace

Pakistan has formally signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, a landmark agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending hostilities. The deal, mediated by Pakistan, includes the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz by Iran and the lifting of a US naval blockade. The agreement marks the first high-level contact between Washington and Tehran since they severed diplomatic ties in 1979.

Defence Ministry: KDMP managers to undergo basic military training at 67 TNI units across Indonesia

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has confirmed that prospective managers of the Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) and Fishermen's Cooperatives (KNMP) will undergo 45 days of basic military training for the reserve component. The training will take place at 67 Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) units nationwide, including the Air Force's Wingdik 500 in Bogor and the Navy's Pasmar I in Cilandak. A total of 35,476 participants are expected to receive instruction in discipline, leadership, and managerial skills before assuming their cooperative management roles.

Khofifah Stresses Ratoon Stumping to Strengthen National Sugar Self-Sufficiency Foundation

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has highlighted the strategic importance of the 'bongkar ratoon' sugarcane replanting programme to bolster Indonesia's sugar self-sufficiency. The initiative targets 54,897 hectares across 24 regencies in East Java, which contributes over half of the nation's sugar output. The programme involves collaboration between government, sugar mills, and farmers to modernise the industry and secure market certainty for growers.

BI Pursues Inflow, Foreign Funds in SRBI Hit Rp55.3 Trillion

Bank Indonesia has raised its benchmark interest rate by a cumulative 100 basis points to attract foreign capital and stabilise the rupiah. The policy has boosted yields on SRBI securities to 7.5%, resulting in foreign inflows of Rp55.3 trillion into SRBI and Rp4.9 trillion into government bonds as of mid-June. The central bank says these inflows have strengthened the rupiah and will continue to support external resilience amid global market volatility.

PASTI Task Force Halts Activities of KOLs Offering Illegal Financial Assets

Indonesia's Illegal Financial Activities Eradication Task Force (Satgas PASTI) has moved against several key opinion leaders (KOLs) for promoting unlicensed digital asset trading platforms. The influencers were summoned and subsequently removed or adjusted content offering illegal financial services. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is also preparing new regulations for financial influencers to bolster consumer protection.

MBG Budget Confirmed to Still Draw from Education and Health Funds

Indonesia's House of Representatives confirms that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme for 2027 will continue to be funded from the education and health budgets. While supporting the programme's continuation with improved governance, lawmakers stress that basic education services must not be disrupted.

China to provide new humanitarian aid to Iran and Lebanon

China has announced it will soon deliver new humanitarian aid to Iran and Lebanon to support recovery and economic development. The pledge follows extensive civilian casualties and infrastructure damage caused by the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Beijing reaffirmed its role as a responsible power committed to peace talks and stability in the Middle East.

Ono Surono Hopes New Bandung Zoo Management Retains Staff and Upholds Wildlife Conservation

PDI Perjuangan has provided a third round of financial aid totalling Rp 324 million to Bandung Zoo during its management transition to Faunaland. West Java DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono urged the new operator to retain existing staff and maintain the zoo's conservation efforts, particularly its successful tapir breeding programme. He also called on the Bandung city government to ensure a transparent handover that safeguards both animal welfare and employee livelihoods.

BI sees stable growth despite 100-basis-point rate hike

Bank Indonesia projects economic growth between 4.9 and 5.7 percent this year despite raising its benchmark rate by a cumulative 100 basis points to 5.75 percent. Governor Warjiyo cited strong government spending and expanding construction investment as key growth drivers, while emphasising the need to strengthen exports amid global slowdown risks. The central bank remains committed to an accommodative macroprudential stance to support digital finance and inclusion.

When is Ashura 10 Muharram? Schedule and Significance for 2026

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram 1448 Hijriah, falls on Thursday, 25 June 2026. The day is highly significant in Islam, with Muslims encouraged to perform voluntary fasts and increase charitable acts. The preceding day, Tasu'a on 9 Muharram, will be observed on Wednesday, 24 June 2026.

Aceh Hajj Pilgrim Death Toll Rises to 12

The number of Acehnese pilgrims who have died during the Hajj in Saudi Arabia has risen to 12, with two additional deaths reported in Mecca and Medina. The fatalities are attributed to health issues, and ten other pilgrims are currently receiving hospital treatment. Officials have expressed condolences and prayers for the deceased and their families.

Senator Urges Indonesian Consulate to Protect Acehnese Tortured in Malaysia

An Indonesian senator has called on the Consulate General in Johor Bahru to provide full legal protection for three Acehnese domestic workers who were allegedly tortured by their employer. Two of the victims are already under consular protection, while the third remains in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysian police have arrested four suspects and seized evidence including the victims' passports, which had been withheld by the employer.

iPhone Prices Set to Skyrocket, Apple CEO Resigned to Fate

Apple CEO Tim Cook has warned that price hikes on iPhones and other products are unavoidable due to soaring memory chip costs driven by AI industry demand. The company has struggled to absorb the rising component prices, with analysts predicting the next iPhone Pro could cost an additional US$270. Cook highlighted the unsustainable market conditions, particularly in the DRAM sector, where AI server demand has quadrupled chip prices.

PGN and BRIN Develop Saline Minapadi to Boost Economic Value of Batang Coastal Land

State gas company PGN, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and the Batang regency government have launched a 'minapadi salin' programme integrating rice, saline tilapia, and seaweed cultivation on 32.26 hectares of previously unproductive coastal land. The initiative builds on successful biosaline rice projects in Semarang and Jepara, which generated billions of rupiah in economic value. Officials say the programme aims to enhance national food security and improve the welfare of coastal communities through research-based innovation.

Russia welcomes US-Iran understanding to end conflict

Russia has welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at ending their conflict. Moscow stressed the importance of all parties adhering to the agreement to prevent further escalation and expressed hope that peace would restore safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Minister Amran Reports Palm Oil Price Anomaly to Prabowo, 274 Companies Reported to Police

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has reported 274 palm oil companies to President Prabowo Subianto and the National Police over an anomalous drop in fresh fruit bunch (TBS) prices, despite rising crude palm oil (CPO) prices and a stronger US dollar. The minister described the price discrepancy as irrational and warned firms against sacrificing smallholder farmers. While 90% of the companies have since restored prices, around 100 remain under scrutiny.

Bomb Squad Sterilises PIK 2 to Secure GMS Church Service

The Indonesian Police's bomb disposal unit conducted a thorough sweep of the NICE Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK) 2 venue in Tangerang to ensure security ahead of a 'Super Conference 2026' service by Gereja Misi Sejahtera (GMS). The operation, which included K9 units, found no suspicious items, confirming the location is safe for the religious gathering.

President Prabowo Appreciates 2026 Hajj Organisation, Urges Service Improvements

President Prabowo Subianto has commended the successful execution of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage and issued directives to further enhance services for Indonesian pilgrims. Key improvements highlighted include faster visa processing, pre-departure distribution of Nusuk cards, and better accommodation in Saudi Arabia. The President also emphasised the need for better food quality, early operational preparations, and long-term solutions like the 'Kampung Haji' concept to reduce costs and waiting times.

PLN says Oelpuah solar plant helps meet peak daytime electricity demand

PLN's East Nusa Tenggara unit reports that the 5 MWp Oelpuah solar power plant in Kupang consistently supplies electricity during peak daytime loads. The plant, operating since 2016, is part of a broader push to integrate renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions in the region. Indonesia aims to optimise solar energy use to achieve energy self-sufficiency, leveraging its vast solar potential of 3,294 GW.

East Jakarta City Government Celebrates Jakarta's 499th Anniversary with Various Competitions

The East Jakarta City Government is organising a series of competitions, including badminton, table tennis, and cooking contests, to celebrate Jakarta's 499th anniversary. The events involve civil servants, community organisations, and residents, aiming to strengthen community spirit ahead of the main celebration on 22 June. A pilgrimage to the tomb of Prince Jayakarta is also planned to honour the city's history.

BI Further Restricts Dollar Purchases to USD 10,000 Starting 1 July 2026

Bank Indonesia (BI) is tightening foreign exchange controls by lowering the threshold for purchasing US dollars without underlying transactions to USD 10,000 per person per month, effective 1 July 2026. The move is part of a series of aggressive measures to stabilise the rupiah, which has faced significant depreciation pressure. BI also adjusted the reporting threshold for outgoing foreign currency transfers to USD 25,000 to strengthen prudential principles in the money and foreign exchange markets.

Revealed! Hanania Travel in Trouble Since 2023, Frequently Robbing Peter to Pay Paul

Jakarta police have disclosed that Hanania Travel has been facing financial difficulties since 2023, resorting to a 'robbing Peter to pay Paul' scheme to fund its operations. The company allegedly misused funds from new pilgrims to cover the costs of earlier groups and other operational expenses. The director has been detained as a suspect in a fraud and embezzlement case involving hundreds of victims and billions of rupiah in losses.

Invest Selangor Expands Beyond Malaysia, Strengthens ASEAN Investment

Invest Selangor Berhad is set to lead a 150-member delegation to Bandung, Indonesia, in July 2026 for the first Selangor International Business Summit held outside Malaysia. The event aims to deepen trade and investment synergies between Selangor and West Java, focusing on key sectors such as semiconductors, aerospace, and the halal industry. The summit marks a strategic expansion of Selangor's economic diplomacy within the ASEAN region.

NATO Monitoring European Council's Communication with Russia

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has confirmed the alliance is closely monitoring discussions within the European Union regarding potential diplomatic re-engagement with Russia. While respecting the EU-level nature of the talks, Rutte stated NATO is not involved but maintains regular information exchanges. Reports indicate the EU has had brief, non-substantive contacts with the Kremlin in recent weeks.

Grab Encourages Market Traders to Sell Online, Boosting Regional Revenue

Grab Indonesia has expanded its 'Kota Masa Depan' (Future City) programme to Banjarmasin, providing digital training to traditional market traders. The initiative aims to accelerate digitalisation among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to contribute to local government revenue. Since 2021, the programme has reached over 200,000 MSMEs across 17 Indonesian cities.

What Happens to Hotel Sultan Guests Who Have Already Booked?

The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) has addressed the situation of guests with existing bookings at Hotel Sultan following its takeover. Guests with imminent reservations are directed to an on-site crisis centre for relocation to other hotels in the Senayan area, though PPKGBK will not provide compensation as the contracts were with the previous operator, PT Indobuildco. The management is also verifying current occupants to distinguish genuine guests from those potentially placed there ahead of the execution.

Hanasui Penetrates Japanese Market, Strengthening Indonesia's Beauty Industry Exports

Indonesian cosmetics brand Hanasui has achieved a milestone by exporting its Power Serum range to Japan, becoming the first Indonesian serum to enter the highly regulated Japanese market. The products will be sold in over 1,500 outlets including major retailers Don Quijote and AEON, signalling growing global competitiveness for Indonesia's beauty sector.

Bank Indonesia Aceh Distributes Rp5 Billion in Rupiah Currency to Remote 3T Islands

Bank Indonesia's Aceh representative office, in collaboration with the Indonesian Navy, has launched an expedition to distribute Rp5 billion in fresh currency to five remote, outermost, and underdeveloped (3T) islands in Aceh. The initiative, which represents a 25 per cent increase from the previous year, also includes the withdrawal of unfit notes and public education on the importance of the rupiah as a symbol of national sovereignty. The operation underscores the central bank's mandate to ensure currency availability across the archipelago, leveraging naval assets to overcome geographical challenges.