Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 1,001-1,050 of 1,644 articles

South Jakarta Education Office Supports Family of SMAN 6 Student After Fatal Accident

The South Jakarta Education Office is providing assistance to the family of a 10th-grade student from SMAN 6 who died in a traffic accident involving a school bus and a low-hanging PLN cable. Three school buses have been arranged to transport teachers and students to the funeral in Tangerang. Authorities are investigating the incident, which occurred when the motorcycle the victim was riding on struck a dangling wire, causing her to fall and be hit by the bus.

BPS Assures Economic Census Data Confidential and Unrelated to Taxation

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has launched the 2026 Economic Census, running from 15 June to 31 August, and is urging public participation. The agency has explicitly guaranteed that the collected data is confidential and will not be used for tax purposes. The census aims to map the complete economic structure of the nation, covering 32 million business actors and 289.3 million individuals across 95.3 million families, to support targeted development and an 8% economic growth target.

PKB Urges PDIP to Clarify Its Political Stance in Prabowo's Government

The National Awakening Party (PKB) has called on the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) to clearly define its position as either part of the government or the opposition. PKB Vice Chairman Jazilul Fawaid expressed concern that PDIP's ambiguous stance could hinder the implementation of President Prabowo Subianto's programmes. The request follows speculation about PDIP's involvement in recent student demonstrations.

Purwakarta Prosecutor's Office Introduces Law to Students Through Festival

The Purwakarta District Prosecutor's Office has launched an innovative 'Prosecutor Goes to School' festival to foster legal awareness among youth. The inaugural event combined creative competitions such as drama and poster design with legal education for secondary and special needs students. Officials hope the initiative will build character and integrity while providing a creative outlet for young people.

Trade Minister Guarantees No Increase in Minyakita Price, Focuses on Expanding Distribution

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has confirmed that the highest retail price for the subsidised cooking oil 'Minyakita' will remain at Rp 15,700 per litre. The government is instead concentrating on strengthening distribution through state-owned food enterprises Bulog and ID FOOD to ensure wider availability in traditional markets. Producers are also being encouraged to increase output of alternative affordable cooking oil brands to provide consumers with more options.

Barantin Identifies Four Obstacles Hindering Village Products from Reaching Export Markets

Indonesia's quarantine agency, Barantin, has pinpointed four key barriers preventing village products from entering inter-island and export trade: quality standards, certification, product traceability, and commodity safety. The agency plans to provide mentoring and education to village enterprises to help meet these requirements. This initiative supports the government's ambitious target of establishing 5,000 export-oriented villages across the country.

81,000 Hectares of Land Burned Due to Hot Weather and El Niño, Says Forestry Minister

Indonesia's Forestry Minister reports that 81,000 hectares of land have already been burned this year, a figure higher than the previous year, driven by hot weather and a moderate El Niño. The government is bracing for worsening conditions from July to October, with the Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs emphasising tightened coordination and integrated ground and air operations to prevent larger fires.

Didit Kisses Jokowi's Hand in Farewell After Meeting in Solo

Ragowo Hediprasetyo, son of President Prabowo Subianto, paid a brief private visit to former President Joko Widodo at his residence in Solo. The 30-minute meeting concluded with Didit respectfully kissing Jokowi's hand before departing. The gesture highlights the continued personal ties between the families of Indonesia's current and former leaders.

PKB to PDIP: If You're the Opposition, Be the Opposition, Don't Be Ambiguous!

The National Awakening Party (PKB) has urged the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) to clarify its stance towards President Prabowo Subianto's administration, warning that ambiguity is confusing. PKB faction chairman Jazilul Fawaid stressed that government supporters need solidarity to implement presidential programmes effectively. The call follows PDIP's denial of involvement in recent student protests against the Free Nutritious Meals programme.

Constitutional Court: Husband as Breadwinner, Wife as Homemaker in Marriage Law Not Discriminatory

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has rejected a judicial review challenge against the 1974 Marriage Law, ruling that its assignment of distinct duties to husbands and wives does not constitute discrimination. The court argued the provisions reflect complementary roles based on balance and partnership, rather than unlawful differentiation. It also noted the law provides flexibility, allowing courts to adjust responsibilities based on actual circumstances, such as in divorce cases.

Finance Minister Purbaya Seeks China's Finance Ministry Support for Panda Bond Issuance

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has requested support from China's Ministry of Finance to ensure the success of Indonesia's upcoming Panda Bond issuance. He noted that the Chinese ministry controls numerous state-owned enterprises with substantial funds, giving it significant capacity to absorb renminbi-denominated bonds. Purbaya is also meeting with 15 major Chinese institutional investors before proceeding with the issuance process next week.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing discuss cooperation

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Myanmar's leader Min Aung Hlaing in Beijing, reaffirming China's commitment to non-interference and prioritising the bilateral relationship. The two leaders discussed advancing the China-Myanmar Economic Corridor, post-earthquake reconstruction support, and joint efforts to combat cross-border crime. They also witnessed the signing of cooperation agreements in transportation and people's livelihoods.

Indonesia Prepares to Host 2026 Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia

Indonesia is gearing up to host the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia at the Mandalika International Circuit in October 2026. The event aims to bolster the country's position as a global sport tourism destination while showcasing its natural beauty and culture. Organisers are working to meet international standards following the success of the 2025 race, which attracted over 140,000 spectators.

Peruri Strengthens SOE Synergy through Blue Impact Programme in South Lampung

State-owned banknote printer Peruri has joined six other Indonesian SOEs in the Blue Impact corporate social responsibility programme at Minang Rua Beach, South Lampung. The initiative combines coral reef conservation, financial literacy education, and free health checks to support coastal community welfare. The collaboration underscores a collective SOE approach to environmental sustainability and local economic empowerment.

Davina Karamoy Questioned by Police in Hanania Travel Case

Jakarta police have questioned actress Davina Karamoy as a witness in the ongoing investigation into alleged fraud by Hanania Travel. She is the latest in a series of public figures summoned over the failed umrah pilgrimage scheme. The travel agency's boss has been named a suspect on charges including fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering.

Bahlil Admits Coal Supply Constraints for Power Plants, Here's Why

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has acknowledged a shortfall of 18 to 20 million tonnes in coal supply for national power plants, citing declining calorific value and rising production costs. The government is seeking solutions for the scarcity of medium-grade coal while evaluating domestic price policies to ensure fairness for both producers and the state electricity company.

Execution of Block 15, Former Hotel Sultan in GBK Complex, Marred by Clashes

The court-ordered execution of Block 15, the former Hotel Sultan site within Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) complex, sparked clashes between sympathisers and security forces. The land and buildings, part of state assets under the Ministry of State Secretariat, were seized following a Central Jakarta District Court ruling. The operation involved asset inventorying amid protests and banners rejecting the execution.

Industry Ministry Seeks to Prepare Small Businesses for Mandatory Halal Certification Through Assistance

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is ramping up assistance, facilitation, and outreach to ensure small-scale industries are ready for the mandatory halal certification deadline of October 2026. While large industries face few obstacles, smaller enterprises still encounter challenges, prompting the government to strengthen coordination with the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH). The initiative aims to streamline the certification process and prevent disruptions to small business operations.

Execution Process Underway, Hotel Sultan Breakfast Served Until Noon

The execution of Hotel Sultan by the Central Jakarta District Court continued into Thursday afternoon, with the hotel's breakfast buffet remaining fully laid out past midday. Court bailiffs and Gelora Bung Karno management staff entered the premises accompanied by police, while remaining guests were escorted out. The enforcement follows a final court ruling in a long-running land dispute.

Trump 'Surrenders' to Iran! US in Turmoil, Allied Party Furious

A temporary memorandum of understanding brokered by President Trump with Iran has triggered a fierce backlash from senior Republican figures. Critics argue the draft deal, which includes a US commitment to US$300 billion in reconstruction aid, fails to constrain Iran's nuclear ambitions and rewards Tehran for past aggression. The internal party revolt draws unfavourable comparisons to the Obama-era nuclear deal that Trump himself previously abandoned.

Law Minister Supratman to Build 'Sekolah Rakyat' Without State Budget Funds

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has announced plans to initiate the construction of a 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School) using non-APBN funds, in support of President Prabowo Subianto's priority programme. The initiative, which includes the handover of 6.3 hectares of ministry land to the Ministry of Social Affairs, aims to improve educational access for impoverished and vulnerable children. Supratman described the effort as a constitutional mandate and a 'calling of the heart', pledging to transfer the completed facility to the Ministry of Social Affairs for operation.

West Java Legislator Prioritises Landslide Prevention in Kuningan

A West Java legislator is prioritising the construction of a retaining wall in Cigadung, Kuningan, to mitigate serious landslide risks threatening residential areas. The official also highlighted the need for planned community empowerment programmes and the provision of sports facilities to support local youth development.

Cipayung Health Centre Introduces Innovative Osteoarthritis Programme for the Elderly

The Cipayung District Health Centre in East Jakarta has launched an innovative programme called 'Sentra Emas' to address rising osteoarthritis cases among the elderly. The initiative features a partnership with Transjakarta for accessible transport, a copyrighted health guidebook, and therapeutic exercises, having already won local innovation awards.

Case of TNI Soldier Stabbing 4 Brimob Officers in Labuan Bajo Ends Peacefully

A violent altercation in Labuan Bajo involving three Indonesian Army (TNI AD) soldiers and four Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officers has been resolved through a peace agreement. The reconciliation, facilitated by local police and military district command, prioritised internal disciplinary action over criminal proceedings. Officials stressed the need to maintain security synergy in the key tourist destination.

Jeffrey Hendrik Appointed President Director: Full List of IDX Board of Directors for 2026-2030

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved six directors for the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2026-2030 term, with Jeffrey Hendrik named as President Director. The appointments, confirmed by OJK's capital market chief Hasan Fawzi, are set to be ratified at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on 29 June 2026. The new board includes directors overseeing corporate valuation, trading, compliance, technology, and business development.

PDIP Criticises Budiman Sudjatmiko's UGM Discussion: 'It Seemed Like a Provocation'

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has sharply criticised a discussion forum at Gadjah Mada University (UGM) involving senior government officials, calling the timing and location a provocation amidst student protests. The event, featuring Minister Nusron Wahid, Deputy Minister Sudaryono, and poverty agency head Budiman Sudjatmiko, was disrupted by protesters, leading to its premature end. PDIP official Deddy Sitorus questioned the organisers' decision to proceed, arguing it was insensitive to the current political dynamics and that Budiman, as a former activist now in power, can no longer claim to be part of the student movement.

Jakarta Light Festival Set for 21-22 June 2026, Mark Your Calendars!

Jakarta will host the Jakarta Light Festival at Taman Fatahillah on 21-22 June 2026 as part of the city's anniversary celebrations. Concurrently, Ancol and Ragunan are offering free entry for Jakarta ID holders on select dates, with online reservations required for Ancol.

Economic Census 2026 not for taxation interests: BPS

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has assured the public that the 2026 Economic Census is not intended for taxation purposes and that all data will remain confidential. The census aims to map the country's economic structure comprehensively, covering 32 million business actors and 289.3 million individuals across 95.3 million households. BPS emphasised that quality data from the census is essential for achieving the 8 percent economic growth target and for regional development planning.

OJK Leadership Meets KPK to Discuss Financial Sector Cases

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) held a meeting to discuss ongoing cases in the financial sector. The two agencies plan to expand their existing memorandum of understanding to strengthen joint efforts in combating corruption, focusing on prevention, education, and integrity building. A joint technical team will be formed to follow up on the agreed measures.

Pakistan PM: US and Iran Sign MoU, Agreement Takes Immediate Effect

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the United States and Iran have electronically signed a memorandum of understanding, which has taken immediate effect. The agreement, mediated by Pakistan with Qatar's support, stipulates Iran's reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the US lifting its naval blockade as an initial step. Sharif hailed the deal as a commitment to diplomatic conflict resolution and a foundation for regional prosperity.

Adolescent Obesity a Serious Threat, Beware of Excessive Sugar, Salt, and Fat Intake

Rising obesity among Indonesian adolescents poses a significant public health threat, driven largely by excessive consumption of sugar, salt, and fat (GGL) from fast food and sugary drinks. Health experts warn that this trend increases the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease in later life. Prevention efforts must begin at home with better nutritional awareness and regular physical activity.

Germany and Poland to Expand NATO Fuel Pipeline to the Baltics

Germany and Poland have announced plans to extend NATO's military fuel pipeline system to the Baltic states, aiming to secure reliable fuel supplies for the alliance's eastern flank. The initiative was revealed by German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius following the signing of a new bilateral defence agreement in Warsaw. Russia has repeatedly voiced concerns over NATO's increased activities near its western borders.

Banjarbaru Land Office Urged to Expedite Execution of Court Ruling

A Banjarmasin resident has formally complained to the Ombudsman about the Banjarbaru Land Office's failure to execute a legally binding court ruling regarding a land certificate. Despite a Supreme Court decision and an administrative execution order, the office has not provided an official response or taken action. The complainant is now calling on the newly appointed head of the office to evaluate the case and ensure legal certainty.

Gibran checks MBG food quality, school facilities on NTT visit

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka inspected the implementation of the national free nutritious meal (MBG) programme at a school in NTT, ensuring food quality and temperature standards are maintained. He also identified inadequate classroom lighting and urged immediate improvements to school facilities. The visit is part of a broader official tour across several eastern provinces to monitor strategic programmes and infrastructure.

Total of 119 Arrested Following Unrest During Hotel Sultan Land Execution

Jakarta police have arrested 119 individuals following violent clashes during the court-ordered execution of land at the former Hotel Sultan site. The arrests aim to prevent further escalation and identify those illegally occupying the area and the intellectual actors funding the mass mobilisation. Police emphasised that obstructing a legally binding court ruling undermines the principle of res judicata and social order.

Satpol PP and Customs Raid Shops in Bogor City, Seize Thousands of Illegal Cigarettes

A joint operation by Customs, Satpol PP, police, and military personnel in Bogor City resulted in the seizure of 14,480 illegal cigarettes from two grocery shops. One repeat offender was taken into custody and issued an administrative fine of nearly Rp 30 million, while a first-time violator received education.

Oil Prices Fall Again After US-Iran Sign MoU

Global oil prices dropped sharply on Thursday after the US and Iranian presidents signed a memorandum of understanding to end their conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The agreement, mediated by Pakistan, includes immediate sanctions relief and a $300 billion reconstruction fund, while Iran commits to reducing enriched uranium stockpiles. The reopening of the strategic waterway, which carries a fifth of the world's oil, is expected to ease supply fears that had driven up inflation.

1,920 Petrol Stations in Indonesia Undergo Retail Make Over to Enhance Comfort and Service Quality

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has completed a Retail Make Over (RMO) programme at 1,920 petrol stations across Indonesia since 2023, aiming to modernise facilities and improve customer comfort. The state-owned enterprise also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining fuel quality and adhering to government-set pricing formulas for non-subsidised fuels. The initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance service standards and ensure product quality from terminal to forecourt.

BRI-MI and Ayovest Forge Strategic Partnership to Expand Digital Investment Access

PT BRI Manajemen Investasi (BRI-MI) has entered a strategic partnership with digital mutual fund platform Ayovest to accelerate product distribution through efficient digital channels. The collaboration integrates BRI-MI's regulated portfolio management with Ayovest's digital infrastructure, aiming to boost assets under management and expand the retail investor base. Both firms are optimistic the synergy will enhance financial literacy and contribute to a healthier national mutual fund ecosystem.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Reveals Late-Night Calls with Trump on Jobs and National Security

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has disclosed a close relationship with US President Donald Trump, who frequently calls him late at night to discuss job creation, reindustrialisation, and national security. The bond began with a dinner invitation at Mar-a-Lago and has extended to Huang accompanying Trump on foreign visits, including a reported pick-up by Air Force One. Huang also urged widespread adoption of artificial intelligence while calling for clear government regulation to address security risks.

PKB Urges PDIP to Clarify Stance: 'We Are Fighting to Fulfil the President's Promises'

The National Awakening Party (PKB) has called on the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) to clearly define its position regarding President Prabowo Subianto's administration. PKB faction leader Jazilul Fawaid stressed that government supporters need unity and solidarity to implement the president's programmes. He expressed confusion over PDIP's self-described role as a 'balancing force' and urged the party to take a firm stance.

Government Finalises Budget for 2026 National Internship Programme

The Indonesian government is finalising the budget for the second wave of the National Internship Programme (MagangHub), set to launch in July 2026. Manpower Minister Yassierli confirmed the state will fully cover interns' allowances, reversing earlier discussions on cost-sharing with companies. The programme will expand to accommodate 150,000 fresh graduates, up from 100,000 in the previous year.

Jakarta Council Commission A Pursues Regional Financial Management Improvements Based on BPK Findings

Commission A of the Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is focusing on addressing audit findings from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) during discussions on the 2025 budget accountability regulation. The commission aims to improve financial governance by analysing the causes of the findings and ensuring follow-up actions by regional bodies. Key issues include potential irregularities in budget execution and excess employee spending, with a call for better coordination with the central government on civil servant recruitment.

Bullying in Schools: An Alarm That Must Not Be Ignored

A series of recent, severe bullying cases across Indonesia, including fatalities in South Tangerang and West Nusa Tenggara, highlights a systemic failure to protect students. The article argues that violence becomes entrenched through a 'normalisation of deviance', where adults routinely dismiss or minimise abuse, effectively teaching children that such behaviour is acceptable. It calls for a shift from treating anti-violence regulations as mere formalities to genuine, consistent enforcement and moral accountability from parents, teachers, and school administrators.

Law Minister to Build 'Sekolah Rakyat' Without Using State Budget

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has announced plans to initiate the construction of a 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School) using non-APBN funds, supporting President Prabowo Subianto's priority programme. The initiative was revealed during the handover of 6.3 hectares of ministry land to the Ministry of Social Affairs for the school's development. Supratman described the effort as a constitutional mandate to provide education for children from poor and vulnerable families.

Over a Century of Rails in Lampung, KAI Strengthens Southern Sumatra Connectivity

Indonesia's state railway operator KAI reported serving 498,104 passengers and 11.44 million tonnes of freight in the Lampung–South Sumatra region from January to May 2026. The railway, originally built in 1911 during the colonial era, now plays a critical role in logistics, particularly for coal transport, and aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to prioritise national railway development. KAI aims to further enhance safety, reliability, and service quality to boost regional economic competitiveness and connectivity.

Tax Office Seizes Assets of Delinquent Taxpayers: From Cars and Motorcycles to Apartments

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has intensified asset seizures across Indonesia, targeting delinquent taxpayers to recover unpaid obligations. Actions last week included confiscating three apartments in North Jakarta and multiple vehicles in Central Java, with total estimated asset values reaching billions of rupiah. Officials stated these enforcement measures are crucial to securing state revenue and funding public welfare programmes after persuasive approaches failed.

Microsoft and Mars Snacking Appoint New General Managers for Indonesia

Microsoft and Mars Snacking have both announced new general managers for their Indonesian operations within a week. Gunawan Susanto, formerly of AWS, takes over Microsoft Indonesia amid its US$1.7 billion cloud and AI investment, while Sanjib Bose leads the newly formed Mars Snacking entity following its acquisition of Kellanova.

Heavy rains flood hundreds of homes in Jambi

Severe flooding triggered by heavy rainfall has inundated hundreds of homes in Jambi, Sumatra. The disaster highlights ongoing vulnerabilities in regional drainage and flood mitigation infrastructure. Local authorities are expected to assess the damage and coordinate emergency relief efforts for affected residents.

World Refugee Day Commemorated on 20 June: Here Are the Details

The United Nations marks World Refugee Day on 20 June, focusing this year on the theme 'Until Everyone Is Safe'. The observance honours the resilience of over 117 million forcibly displaced people worldwide and calls for renewed commitment to their protection and dignity.