Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 751-800 of 1,644 articles

Pro and Anti-MBG Protesters Hold Separate Rallies at Jakarta's Patung Kuda

Two opposing groups staged separate demonstrations near Jakarta's Patung Kuda monument regarding the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. One group, calling itself the Children's Nutrition Fighters, voiced support for President Prabowo's initiative, while the HMI student group demanded a total evaluation of the programme and other economic measures. Police maintained order and no clashes occurred between the two rallies.

Paradise Indonesia Finalises Interim Dividend and Reshuffles Board at AGM

PT Indonesian Paradise Property Tbk (INPP) has finalised its interim dividend at Rp 5 per share, totalling Rp 55.9 billion, with no additional payout. The company also reported a swing to a net profit of Rp 44.7 billion in Q1 2026 and overhauled its leadership, appointing Andri Hadi as President Director.

Bank DBS Projects BI Rate to Rise to 6 Percent by 2026

Bank DBS Indonesia forecasts that Bank Indonesia's benchmark interest rate could climb to 6.0 percent by the end of 2026, driven by efforts to stabilise the rupiah amid global uncertainty. The bank acknowledges that higher rates will likely increase lending costs and pressure consumer purchasing power, while emphasising the need for prudent credit risk management.

West Bandung Waives Regional Tax Penalties to Boost Revenue

The West Bandung Regency government has launched a tax penalty amnesty programme, waiving administrative sanctions on several overdue regional taxes from 9 June to 31 August 2026. The initiative aims to improve taxpayer compliance and increase locally generated revenue (PAD), which has already been revised upwards to IDR 1.033 trillion in the 2025 budget. Certain taxes, including electricity tax and land and building transfer fees, are excluded from the amnesty.

Sorong City Government: Subsidised Kerosene Allocation Reaches 1,455 kl per Month

The Sorong City Government in Southwest Papua has confirmed a monthly allocation of 1,455 kilolitres of subsidised kerosene, distributed through 599 bases to meet local demand. The distribution is managed by seven official agents and is subject to routine monitoring to ensure compliance with the designated retail price of Rp4,000 per litre. Authorities report no violations to date but remain open to public complaints regarding potential price gouging or hoarding.

Police Uncover Illegal Prescription Drug Sales Disguised as Grocery Shop in Tangerang

Police in Tangerang have dismantled an operation selling restricted prescription drugs under the guise of a neighbourhood grocery shop. The investigation began with the arrest of a 19-year-old buyer, leading officers to a supplier who was found in possession of 145 tramadol tablets and cash proceeds. Both suspects face charges under Indonesia's 2023 Health Law, with authorities pledging continued crackdowns on illegal pharmaceutical distribution.

BI: Digital payment transactions grow 28.14 per cent as of May 2026

Bank Indonesia reported a 28.14 per cent year-on-year surge in digital payment transactions to 5.22 billion in May 2026, driven by wider acceptance and a near doubling of QRIS usage. The central bank also noted robust growth in BI-FAST and RTGS volumes, affirming that payment system stability remains strong. Governor Perry Warjiyo highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen industry structure and ensure adequate currency supply nationwide.

Not a Coincidence: The Reasons Madinah Was Chosen as the Destination of Prophet Muhammad's Hijrah

The Prophet Muhammad's migration from Makkah to Madinah was a strategic decision based on the readiness of Madinah's inhabitants to embrace Islam. Unlike the people of Makkah, the residents of Madinah actively sought out the Prophet to pledge their allegiance before the Hijrah took place. This historical analysis highlights the foundational role of Madinah's receptive community in the development of Islamic civilisation.

Bantargebang Waste Picker Families Trapped in a Cycle of Poverty

A joint study by The SMERU Research Institute and Greenpeace Indonesia reveals that waste pickers at the Bantargebang landfill face structural vulnerabilities spanning economic instability, legal identity barriers, and health risks that perpetuate intergenerational poverty. Researchers argue that technical waste management solutions like RDF and PLTSA are insufficient without participatory measures to empower the community. They recommend integrated data collection, expanded social security access, and child-safe spaces to break the cycle.

Despite Easing Middle East Conflict, BI Maintains Low 3% Global Economic Growth Forecast

Bank Indonesia has kept its global economic growth projection at a low 3% for 2026, citing persistent geopolitical uncertainty despite a recent interim deal between the US and Iran. The central bank also warned of rising inflationary pressures, forecast at 4.4%, and noted that global investors continue to favour safe-haven assets over emerging markets. Governor Perry Warjiyo stressed the need for vigilance and strengthened fiscal-monetary policy synergy to safeguard domestic stability.

UNM Makassar Student Body Denies Joining Declaration Against 'Reformasi Jilid II'

The Student Executive Body (BEM) of Universitas Negeri Makassar (UNM) has refuted claims it participated in a declaration opposing a second wave of reforms. The organisation stated it remains committed to advocating on national issues, including the free school meals programme and the Police Law, and plans further mass demonstrations.

House Commission XIII Hears Complaints from Junior Doctors Over Withheld Professional Certificates

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XIII has received complaints from junior doctors alleging that their professional certificates are being unfairly withheld. The doctors argue that retroactive application of a 2018 ministerial regulation and ambiguous clauses in the Medical Education Law are preventing them from graduating and working, despite completing their clinical rotations. They warn the situation is creating unemployment and hardship, and also trapping foreign nationals who studied medicine in Indonesia.

Sultan of Yogyakarta Vows Zero Tolerance for Land Misuse

Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, has declared that the regional government will not tolerate any irregularities in land utilisation. The administration is strengthening both repressive legal measures and preventive oversight to ensure accountable land governance. The commitment aims to protect state and community interests while upholding the spirit of Yogyakarta's special autonomy.

Malaysia Appreciates Russia's Readiness for Long-Term Energy Cooperation

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has welcomed Russia's willingness to engage in long-term energy cooperation following talks with President Vladimir Putin. The discussions covered expanded collaboration in oil and energy supplies, as well as new technology, digital economy, and agricultural sectors. Both nations also explored boosting bilateral trade and investment using their national currencies.

Jakarta Provincial Government Holds Grand Haul to Commemorate City's 499th Anniversary

The Jakarta Provincial Government is organising a grand haul for Betawi ulama and habaib on 19 June 2026 as part of the city's 499th anniversary celebrations. The event, expected to draw 20,000 worshippers to Monas, aims to honour religious figures who contributed to the capital's social and educational development. Activities include a city-wide mosque clean-up, pilgrimages to scholars' graves led by the governor and deputy governor, and a mass Qur'an recitation.

KA Pandalungan 2 achieves 97.5 per cent occupancy on first day of operation

The inaugural journey of the KA Pandalungan 2 train service from Jakarta to Jember recorded a 97.5 per cent occupancy rate, carrying 390 passengers. The strong demand highlights public enthusiasm for new, comfortable long-distance rail connections to East Java. State railway operator KAI views the service as part of its commitment to expanding intercity connectivity and passenger capacity.

Ukraine Strikes Moscow, Oil Refinery Hit

Ukrainian drones struck multiple targets in Moscow, including a major oil refinery, causing fires and disrupting air traffic. The attack marks a significant escalation in the air war between Russia and Ukraine, with Moscow claiming to have downed 180 drones. The refinery strike is the second in two days, further damaging Russia's energy infrastructure and exacerbating a domestic fuel crisis.

BAKTI's various methods beyond SATRIA 1 to provide connectivity for 3T communities

Indonesia's Telecommunication and Information Accessibility Agency (BAKTI) is employing a multi-pronged approach to deliver digital connectivity to remote, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions, extending beyond the SATRIA 1 satellite. As of June 2026, the agency manages 6,747 BTS sites, 31,864 internet access points, and the Palapa Ring fibre optic backbone network. BAKTI aims to not only provide connectivity but also enhance service quality in areas not served by commercial telecommunications.

B50 Programme Ready for Implementation, Bahlil Confident It Will Reduce Diesel Imports

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced the B50 biodiesel programme will be implemented on 1 July, expressing confidence it will significantly reduce or eliminate imports of C48 diesel. The policy is projected to save up to Rp157.3 trillion in foreign exchange this year while adding value to crude palm oil and cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

Video: These Are the Conditions Needed for the Rupiah to Strengthen to Rp 17,000/USD

Bank Indonesia raised its benchmark interest rate to 5.50% in early June 2026 to stabilise the rupiah and bolster domestic market appeal. A CIMB Niaga executive notes that while the rate hike has helped push the rupiah back below Rp 18,000 per US dollar, further strengthening towards Rp 17,000 depends on breaking key support levels and navigating global uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions.

Deputy Minister and Kivlan Zen Injured During Hotel Sultan Execution Clashes

The execution of a court order at Hotel Sultan in Jakarta turned violent, resulting in injuries to Deputy Minister of State Secretariat Bambang Eko Suhariyanto and former Kostrad Chief of Staff Kivlan Zen. Bambang was struck by a stone while observing the operation, and Zen sustained cuts from barbed wire during negotiations with police. A total of 29 security personnel were also injured as protesters threw stones and wood during the eviction.

Minangkabau Airport Expanded, Capacity Doubled to Boost West Sumatra Economy

State-owned airport operator InJourney Airports is continuing the expansion of Minangkabau Airport in Padang as part of a broader infrastructure transformation programme. The development aims to double the airport's capacity and enhance passenger experience, alongside upgrades at Soekarno-Hatta and I Gusti Ngurah Rai airports. The project is expected to improve service standards and support economic growth in West Sumatra.

Prabowo Support Group Reports Former UGM Student Leader Tiyo Ardianto to Criminal Investigation Unit

A pro-Prabowo group, Garda Prabowo, has filed a complaint with the National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) against former UGM student body chairman Tiyo Ardianto. The group alleges that Tiyo's remarks about President Prabowo Subianto constitute personal insults and defamation rather than legitimate criticism. The complaint aims to address public grievances and remind citizens to express opinions respectfully, though the group denies seeking to silence dissent.

Shocking Admission from Huawei Boss: China Secretly Aided Iran

Huawei's CFO Meng Wanzhou has admitted the company violated US sanctions by misleading banks about its business in Iran, a statement a US judge ruled can be used as evidence in the criminal case against the Chinese telecoms giant. The admission stems from a 2021 deferred prosecution agreement that allowed Meng to return to China after nearly three years of house arrest in Canada. The ruling rejects Huawei's argument that the executive's statement cannot be used against the corporation.

Prabowo gathers Himbara leaders to discuss Indonesia's economic direction

President Prabowo Subianto convened directors and commissioners of state-owned banks under Himbara at the Presidential Palace to provide guidance on Indonesia's future economic trajectory. The meeting, described as productive, aimed to strengthen the banks' role as key drivers of the national economy. Several ministers and Danantara officials also attended the session.

Supported by Domestic Demand, BI Says Indonesia's Economic Growth Remains Well Maintained

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo expressed optimism that Indonesia's economic growth remains robust, underpinned by strong domestic demand. Government consumption has surged due to priority programme implementation and accelerated spending, including civil servant bonuses and social assistance. The central bank forecasts 2026 growth in the range of 4.9–5.7% and continues to deploy accommodative macroprudential and payment system policies to support stability and digital economic activity.

Semarang Mayor Agustina Fully Supports 2026 Economic Census

Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng has pledged full support for the 2026 Economic Census, emphasising its critical role in providing accurate data for targeted economic policies. The decennial census will map all business activities, from micro-enterprises to large corporations, to inform programmes on job creation and welfare improvement. Agustina highlighted that comprehensive data will enable more responsive policymaking and attract investment, while assuring participants of data confidentiality.

PKB Snipes at 'Grey' PDIP, Megawati's Aide Asks 'Who is Jazilul?'

The National Awakening Party (PKB) has accused the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) of being ambiguous about its political stance, following the sighting of a senior PDIP figure at a student protest. A PDIP executive sharply retorted, telling PKB's deputy chair Jazilul Fawaid to focus on his own party and asserting that PDIP's position as a balancing force outside the government is unequivocal. The exchange highlights simmering tensions within the ruling coalition over PDIP's self-declared role as a critical partner rather than a formal opposition.

BRILink Agent expands to five locations in Jayapura, bringing financial access closer

A local entrepreneur in Jayapura has grown his small kiosk into a network of five BRILink Agent outlets, significantly improving access to banking services in the Papua region. Darwin Chandra's initiative, which includes mobile service units, now handles up to 500 daily transactions and employs 15 staff, predominantly Indigenous Papuans. BRI reports its BRILink Agent programme now reaches over 80 per cent of Indonesian villages, supporting financial inclusion and local economic growth.

PSI Says Didit's Visit to Solo Proves Special Prabowo-Jokowi Friendship

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has described Didit Prabowo's visit to former President Joko Widodo in Solo as evidence of a special friendship between President Prabowo Subianto and his predecessor. PSI chairman Bestari Barus praised Didit's respectful gesture, dismissing speculation of any rift between the two leaders. The meeting, which took place on Thursday, was held privately and reportedly included the exchange of books.

Minister urges strict action against land clearing by burning

An Indonesian minister has warned that police and prosecutors will take firm action against parties using fire for land clearing, as the nation braces for a severe El Niño peak in July. With 81,000 hectares already burned this year, the government is consolidating mitigation efforts including weather modification and canal blocking. Coordinating Minister Djamari Chaniago stressed the need for improved preparations, particularly in six fire-prone provinces.

PLN removes cables on Jalan Lauser, South Jakarta, following fatal accident involving high school student

State electricity company PLN has begun removing low-hanging cables on Jalan Lauser in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, after a fatal accident involving a high school student. The student died when her motorcycle reportedly snagged on a cable, causing her to fall and be struck by a school bus. Local authorities are coordinating with police and environmental agencies while awaiting further instructions on providing compensation to the victim's family.

Energy Minister Guarantees No Power Cuts, Explains Coal Supply Strategy

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured the public there will be no future electricity blackouts following intensive coordination to secure national energy supply. A key focus is resolving a 20 million metric ton shortfall in coal procurement for PLN, with a special team formed on President Prabowo's direct instruction. The government is also addressing liquidity concerns at the state electricity firm through compensation and subsidy payment schemes.

Prabowo Supporters Report Former UGM Student Leader Tiyo Ardianto to Police

A pro-Prabowo organisation has filed a complaint with Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency against former UGM student body chairman Tiyo Ardianto, alleging he insulted President Prabowo Subianto. The group claims Tiyo's remarks, which reportedly compared the president to an animal, crossed the line from legitimate criticism into personal defamation. They also flagged an alleged false claim by Tiyo about a tracking device on his car, arguing it unfairly implicates the government.

Ex-Bima Police Chief, a Drug Suspect, Transferred to Prosecutors for Trial

Former Bima City Police Chief Didik Putra Kuncoro has been handed over to the Bima District Prosecutor's Office to face drug-related charges. The suspect arrived under heavy guard and will undergo administrative checks before prosecutors prepare an indictment. Authorities aim to expedite the process so the trial can commence promptly at the Bima District Court.

South Korea launches company to manage US$350 billion US investment pledge

South Korea has established a state-backed corporation to oversee a US$350 billion investment commitment in the United States, a key element of a trade deal securing lower tariffs. The Korea-US Strategic Investment Corporation will manage funds across strategic sectors including energy, shipbuilding, and advanced materials, with former trade official Park Jong-won appointed as its first chief. The initiative aims to strengthen bilateral industrial cooperation, though specific projects remain under negotiation with Washington.

88 Percent of MSMEs Use Personal Funds Over Bank Loans, Research Reveals

A Perbanas study reveals that 88 percent of informal micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia prefer using personal funds for capital rather than bank credit. This reliance on self-financing has contributed to a slowdown and even contraction in MSME loan growth, prompting the association to launch an MSME Centre to boost business capacity and financing access.

BI Records 11.51 Percent Banking Credit Growth Through May 2026

Bank Indonesia reported that banking credit growth accelerated to 11.51 percent year-on-year in May 2026, up from 9.98 percent in April, driven by investment loans. The central bank projects full-year credit growth to remain within the 8-12 percent range, supported by ample liquidity and strong capital buffers despite global geopolitical risks.

Gunungkidul Government Distributes Agricultural Equipment Aid to Farmers

The Gunungkidul Regency administration has distributed agricultural machinery to bolster regional food security and farmer welfare. The aid package includes harvesters, tractors, and cultivators sourced from the central government and regional profit-sharing funds. Officials also announced plans for seed assistance covering thousands of hectares and irrigation infrastructure projects valued at Rp3.5 billion.

President Prabowo summons Agriculture Minister Amran over recent drop in palm oil FFB prices

President Prabowo Subianto has summoned Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman to discuss a recent decline in fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices for palm oil, which the minister says has since largely normalised. Amran noted that around 130 companies have yet to comply with government directives to raise prices, and monitoring will continue nationwide. The meeting also covered broader food supply stability and agricultural downstreaming programmes.

Victims of Hanania Travel Approach DPR, Suspect Money Laundering

Victims of Hanania Travel have brought their case to the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), alleging potential money laundering after the company claimed to have no operational funds despite continuing to collect payments from pilgrims. A representative stated that around 3,000 prospective pilgrims are affected, with many having made full payments shortly before the director was arrested.

Urine Leakage When Coughing Could Signal Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

An obstetrician and gynaecologist has warned that urine leakage during coughing, laughing, or jumping may indicate pelvic floor dysfunction, a condition often overlooked by many women. The condition can significantly affect quality of life, yet it frequently goes undiagnosed due to stigma and the mistaken belief that it is a normal part of ageing or childbirth. Women experiencing such symptoms are urged to seek medical consultation for proper diagnosis and multidisciplinary treatment.

Three Asian Nations Where Cat Meat Consumption Persists

Despite being illegal or socially condemned in many parts of the world, the consumption of cat meat continues in several Asian countries, including Vietnam, China, and Cambodia. Vietnam recently saw police rescue over 400 cats from a trafficking ring, while China reportedly consumes millions of cats annually, often for perceived health benefits. In Cambodia, an estimated one million cats are slaughtered each year, driven by demand that frequently relies on stolen pets and strays.

Defence Minister Stresses Three Key Aspects to Face Future Military Challenges

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has outlined three essential pillars for developing adaptive and visionary military leaders to navigate an increasingly complex global strategic environment. Addressing Air Force Staff and Command School students, he emphasised continuous education, dynamic field experience, and openness to defence innovation. The briefing aims to prepare future commanders to lead the transformation of Indonesia's air power and modernise its defence systems.

Agriculture Minister Reports to Prabowo at Palace: Fresh Fruit Bunch Prices Back to Normal

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman reported to President Prabowo Subianto that fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices for oil palm have returned to normal after a recent dip. The minister noted that most companies have raised prices at the farm level, though a small fraction have yet to comply. The meeting was also expected to cover national food security and agricultural downstreaming priorities.

Human Rights Minister Says Blocking Protesters from Bundaran HI Complies with Regulations

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has defended the police action of preventing student protesters from reaching Jakarta's Bundaran HI, stating it was a lawful regulation of public assembly rather than a restriction of rights. He cited the Siracusa Principles and noted that alternative locations like Lapangan Banteng were provided for the demonstration. The remarks follow an incident where BEM UI students were halted by security forces before reaching the iconic roundabout.

Pelaku Usaha Diingatkan Sampaikan LKPM via OSS Sebelum 15 Juli

Lembaga OSS mengingatkan para pelaku usaha di Indonesia untuk segera menyiapkan Laporan Kegiatan Penanaman Modal (LKPM) yang wajib disampaikan secara berkala melalui sistem OSS. Periode pelaporan berikutnya dibuka pada 1 hingga 15 Juli 2026, dan kepatuhan terhadap kewajiban ini penting untuk menghindari sanksi administratif sesuai ketentuan yang berlaku. Pelaku usaha mikro dikecualikan dari kewajiban pelaporan realisasi penanaman modal ini.

Chronology of SMAN 6 Student's Fatal Fall and Accident on Jalan Lauser

A female student from SMAN 6 Jakarta died after falling from a motorcycle that reportedly snagged on a protruding cable on Jalan Lauser, South Jakarta. The victim was then struck by a school bus. Police are currently investigating the exact cause of the fatal traffic incident.

KKP: TFCCA Grant to Strengthen Ecosystems and Community Economy

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has outlined that the Tropical Forest and Coral Reefs Conservation Act (TFCCA) grant programme is designed to support ecosystem sustainability and boost the economy of coastal and small-island communities. The first cycle of the debt-for-nature swap scheme has already disbursed approximately Rp68 billion to 55 recipients, including four groups in Southwest Papua. The KKP is encouraging more local communities to submit proposals that meet programme standards to access future funding cycles.

Gibran Calls for Village Cooperative Development That Does Not Harm Communities

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has urged local officials to conduct thorough studies and community consultations before selecting sites for the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) programme. His intervention follows damage to a primary school in Ende, East Nusa Tenggara, caused by initial construction work. The Vice President stressed that the cooperatives must complement existing village enterprises and small shops without disrupting education or disadvantaging residents.