Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 1,051-1,100 of 1,644 articles

Five Ministries Secure Budgets, 28 Others Urged to Accelerate Proposals for Sumatra Disaster Recovery

Five Indonesian ministries have received approval for additional budgets to fund post-disaster recovery programmes following the November 2025 flash floods in Sumatra. The Recovery Task Force is pressing 28 other ministries and agencies to expedite their internal proposals and administrative processes so funds can be disbursed swiftly, as affected communities have already endured seven months of hardship.

Debt Reaches Rp9,000 Trillion, Government Urged to Strengthen Economic Diplomacy

Indonesia's total government debt has reached Rp9,000 trillion, placing significant strain on the state budget due to substantial annual principal and interest payments. A member of House Commission XI has called for strategic economic diplomacy to renegotiate terms with international creditors amid global uncertainty. Meanwhile, an economist highlighted that the rupiah's decade-long depreciation reflects unresolved structural issues, though recent infrastructure development provides a foundation for future growth.

Itera prepares SMT affirmation pathway to equalise higher education access in Lampung

The Sumatera Institute of Technology (Itera) is introducing an affirmation pathway within its 2026 Integrated Independent Selection (SMT) to boost university representation from underrepresented districts in Lampung Province. Data shows five regencies—Tanggamus, Way Kanan, West Tulang Bawang, West Pesisir, and Mesuji—have student representation rates below 3.2 per cent. The rector emphasised the policy aims to widen science and technology education access while maintaining transparent and accountable selection principles.

Social Affairs and Housing Ministries Accelerate Home Renovations for Sekolah Rakyat Students' Families

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs and Ministry of Housing and Settlement are fast-tracking a home renovation programme targeting the families of students enrolled in Sekolah Rakyat (People's Schools). The cross-ministerial initiative aims to break the cycle of extreme poverty by improving housing conditions alongside education and family empowerment. Verification of beneficiaries is underway in Pasuruan, East Java, with construction expected to commence in September 2026.

BAKTI: Education sector to be largest SATRIA 1 beneficiary in 2026

Indonesia's telecommunications agency BAKTI reports that the education sector will account for the majority of SATRIA 1 satellite connectivity in 2026, with over 68 percent of service points dedicated to schools. The initiative prioritises underserved, frontier, and outermost regions to bridge the digital divide and improve educational quality. BAKTI is also complementing connectivity with targeted digital literacy programmes for vulnerable groups in remote areas.

New Fed Era Begins, Bitcoin and Altcoins Bleed

The US Federal Reserve's unexpectedly hawkish stance under new Chair Kevin Warsh has triggered a sell-off in cryptocurrency markets. Bitcoin fell nearly 2% and Ethereum over 2% as rising Treasury yields dampened appetite for risk assets. While Warsh's long-term view of Bitcoin as 'digital gold' may bolster institutional confidence, his scepticism towards most altcoins and the prospect of further rate hikes signal continued near-term pressure.

From Nusantara Cuisine to Craft Products: Yummy Craft Empowers Local Artisans

Yummy Craft, founded by Sri Kumala Ambarwati, transforms iconic Indonesian dishes into unique bag and accessory motifs while empowering local artisans. The business, which began as a creative outlet during COVID-19 recovery, now involves home-based seamstresses in Bandung and Yogyakarta. Supported by BRI's Rumah BUMN programme, the enterprise combines cultural preservation with sustainable practices and women's economic empowerment.

Social Affairs and Housing Ministries Verify Homes of 'Sekolah Rakyat' Students in Pasuruan for Renovation

The Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Housing and Settlement are conducting factual verifications of uninhabitable homes belonging to students of 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) in Pasuruan, East Java. The initiative is part of a broader programme to provide self-help housing stimulant assistance, with renovations targeted to begin in September. The integrated approach aims to tackle extreme poverty by combining free education, family empowerment, and housing improvements.

Video: Sports Apparel Business Booms as Indonesians Embrace Running and Football

Spanish sports brand Kelme has officially become the jersey provider for Indonesia's national football team. CEO Kevin Wijaya highlights the company's long-term strategy to capitalise on the country's growing active lifestyle trend by expanding into various sports and increasing its retail presence. The interview explores the lucrative opportunities within Indonesia's sports apparel market.

Perbanas Doubts BI Rate Will Rise Today, Here's Why

The Indonesian Banks Association (Perbanas) expressed scepticism that Bank Indonesia (BI) will raise its benchmark interest rate at today's meeting, citing the central bank's recent aggressive hikes. Perbanas officials noted that the cumulative increases, including a 50 bps hike in May and a 25 bps rise last week to 5.50%, may limit room for further tightening, while also highlighting concerns over the narrow spread with the US Fed Funds Rate.

Ministry: 7 KAIH Movement Strengthens Character of Non-Formal School Students

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has emphasised the role of the '7 Habits of Great Indonesian Children' (7 KAIH) movement in building character within non-formal education settings, including home-schooling. Officials highlighted that the family environment is the primary source of habit formation, making parental involvement crucial for embedding these daily practices. The initiative aims to transform conscious routines into lasting character traits through activities such as waking early, exercising, and engaging with the community.

At 599th Anniversary, West Java DPRD Urges Public to Preserve Cirebon's Cultural Heritage

West Java Provincial DPRD member Daddy Rohanady has called for the preservation of Cirebon's historical legacy as the city marks its 599th anniversary. He highlighted the enduring significance of its four royal palaces and emphasised that heritage conservation must go hand in hand with regional development. The anniversary theme promotes unity and collaboration among government, businesses, and the community to drive future progress.

3,162 Hafidz Al-Qur'an Inaugurated in Lamongan

The Lamongan Regency government has inaugurated 3,162 hafidz and hafidzah who achieved the 'mumtaz' (perfect) grade in Qur'an memorisation. The regent described the programme as a long-term investment in human capital, aimed at building a generation with strong character and ethics. The initiative is part of the region's 'Lamongan Nyantri' and 'Perintis' priority programmes to balance physical development with moral and intellectual growth.

Understanding Type 5 Diabetes: Symptoms, Causes, and Risks in Underweight Individuals

Medical experts are highlighting Type 5 diabetes, a malnutrition-modulated form of the disease that predominantly affects underweight individuals in developing nations. Unlike lifestyle-related Type 2, this condition is linked to nutritional deficiencies early in life that permanently impair pancreatic function. The phenomenon underscores the critical importance of adequate nutrition during the first 1,000 days of life to prevent long-term metabolic disorders.

93 People's Schools Nearly Complete, Minister Says Local Governments Key to Transition and Operations

Construction of 93 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) across Indonesia is nearly 79% complete, targeting operation by July 2026. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf emphasised that collaboration with local governments is crucial for managing the transition of over 48,000 prospective students, most from extremely poor households. The programme aims to provide education to vulnerable children, with 178 schools expected to operate nationally in the upcoming academic year.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme Paused During Holidays, SPPG Staff in NTB Remain on Duty

The National Nutrition Agency has issued a circular suspending the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during all holiday periods to ensure budgetary efficiency and operational accountability. The MBG Task Force in West Nusa Tenggara confirmed that while food distribution will cease, heads of service units, nutrition supervisors, and security personnel must remain on duty to safeguard facilities. Strict sanctions, including operational shutdowns, will be enforced for any misuse of programme assets during the break.

Galungan Holiday Traffic Crawls on Singaraja-Denpasar Route

Traffic on the main Singaraja-Denpasar road was heavily congested during the Umanis Galungan holiday, with long queues reported from Wanagiri Peak to Pancasari Village. The gridlock was attributed to increased public mobility for tourism and family visits during the Balinese religious celebration. Police were deployed to manage the flow of vehicles in the Bedugul highland area.

Beirut Rejects Trump's Proposal for Syria to Handle Hizbullah in Lebanon

Lebanon's Justice Minister has firmly dismissed a suggestion by US President Donald Trump that Syria should deal with Hizbullah, asserting that disarming the group is a sovereign Lebanese responsibility. The rejection comes amid ongoing Israel-Hizbullah clashes and broader regional tensions involving Iran, with Lebanon insisting on ending foreign interference in its internal affairs.

BPS Deputy Chief: Economic Census Data Not for Tax Purposes

The Deputy Chief of Statistics Indonesia (BPS) has assured the public that data collected for the 2026 Economic Census will not be used for taxation purposes and will remain confidential. He urged citizens to provide accurate information, emphasising the census's critical role in mapping the national and regional economic structure to support targeted development. The nationwide census will cover 32 million business actors and 95.3 million households from 15 June to 31 August.

Gajah Mada and General Soedirman Proposed as Names for Indonesia's First Aircraft Carrier

The Indonesian Navy has proposed the names of national heroes Gajah Mada and General Soedirman for the country's first aircraft carrier. The final decision will be submitted to President Prabowo Subianto and the Defence Minister for approval. The vessel, formerly the Italian carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, is expected to arrive in Indonesia in 2026.

Two Companies Ordered to Cease Operations for Allegedly Offering Illegal Financial Services

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 proper licences. Universal Peak allegedly ran a fraudulent stock investment scheme, while BAFI Group purportedly offered debt resolution services that involved taking out new loans using victims' personal data. The authorities have blocked their digital access and are coordinating with law enforcement for further legal action.

Accused of Poaching 'Banteng' Cadres, PSI Chairman Offers to 'Educate' PDI-P Elites

The Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) has hit back at accusations from the PDI-P that it is attempting to poach their cadres with material inducements. PSI Chairman Bestari Barus asserted that switching political parties is a private right and offered to personally 'educate' PDI-P officials who fail to understand this principle.

Economist Consensus Projects BI to Hold Benchmark Rate, Here's Why

A consensus of economists expects Bank Indonesia to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 5.5 percent in the June board meeting, following aggressive cumulative hikes of 75 basis points. The tightening, including increased yields on SRBI instruments, has helped stabilise financial markets and attract capital inflows, though foreign outflows from government bonds and equities persist. Domestic investors, including state-owned banks conducting share buybacks, have been key in supporting market recovery.

BEM UPNVJ to Stage Protest at Patung Kuda Today

The Student Executive Body of UPN Veteran Jakarta is set to hold a demonstration near the State Palace today, though their specific demands remain unclear. Separately, the Indonesian Women's Alliance has already gathered in Central Jakarta to protest, calling for lower staple food prices, decent job creation, and an evaluation of the free nutritious meal programme.

Poland and Germany Sign Military Cooperation Pact Without Mutual Security Guarantees

Poland and Germany have signed a new military cooperation agreement replacing a 15-year-old framework, focusing on cyber security, Baltic command, and infrastructure. Notably, at Poland's insistence, the pact excludes mutual security guarantees beyond existing NATO and EU commitments. The deal will allow German engineering troops to support Poland's eastern border fortifications under the 'Eastern Shield' operation.

Manpower Minister Affirms Commitment to Inclusivity in National Internship Programme

Manpower Minister Yassierli has pledged that the National Internship Programme (MagangHub) will remain inclusive, offering equal access to fresh graduates with disabilities. The Ministry of Manpower is opening a special quota and using an affirmative approach in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology to recruit disabled participants. The programme also aims to broaden its geographical reach and field-of-study diversity beyond the current concentration in Java and Jakarta.

Thousands queue 2 km in Melaka heat for semiconductor jobs

Over 1,000 Malaysians formed a 2 km queue in Melaka to apply for 500 positions at German semiconductor firm Infineon Technologies, drawn by a starting salary of RM3,500. The turnout prompted local officials to distribute refreshments and urge the company to ensure applicant safety, while a state executive councillor dismissed concerns about high unemployment, citing Melaka's low 2% jobless rate.

Attorney General's Office Seals Electric Motorcycle Warehouse in Bogor Over MBG Corruption Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has sealed a warehouse storing electric motorcycles in Bogor, West Java, as part of an investigation into alleged corruption within the national free nutritious meal programme (MBG). Local residents witnessed officials cordoning off the facility, which reportedly housed the vehicles intended for the programme. The action follows the naming of five suspects, including former top officials of the National Nutrition Agency.

Bandung Council's Bapemperda Highlights Social Aspects in Inspectorate Building Project

The Bandung City Council's Regional Regulation Formation Agency (Bapemperda) has stressed that social considerations must accompany the technical and administrative plans for the new Regional Inspectorate Building. During a site visit to Braga, officials insisted that community interests be protected and any social issues resolved through dialogue before construction proceeds. The project, funded through a multi-year budget, is intended to strengthen clean and accountable governance.

BAIC FOTON eView Connect Makes Strong Debut in Thailand

BAIC FOTON has launched its eView Connect electric vehicle in Thailand, aligning with the government's '30@30' green transition target. The model features CATL liquid-cooled batteries and has secured its first fleet orders from local logistics, retail, and leasing firms. Strategic partnerships with charging network Spark EV and technology giant Huawei aim to bolster commercial vehicle charging infrastructure across the country.

Barantin and Ministry of Villages Strengthen Literacy to Support 5,000 Export Villages

Indonesia's quarantine agency and the Ministry of Villages have signed an agreement to boost export literacy among village communities, aiming to develop 5,000 export-oriented villages by 2029. The partnership will focus on mentoring and quality enhancement to help village products meet international standards. Currently, only 338 villages are exporting, generating nearly IDR 1 trillion in transactions to 59 countries.

Government Launches App to Strengthen Legality and Standardisation of MSMEs

The Indonesian Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises has soft-launched the 'Superapps Sapa UMKM' platform to integrate data and services for MSMEs across 514 districts. The initiative aims to address fragmented data and strengthen business legality and standardisation, including halal certification, as a foundation for sustainable growth. The platform will also provide data-driven recommendations, access to subsidised financing, and market expansion tools to support the transformation of the sector.

Foreign Investors Net Buy Rp 225.8 Billion in Session 1, Driven by This Stock

Foreign investors recorded a net buy of Rp 225.8 billion during the first trading session on Thursday, with PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk (EMAS) dominating inflows at Rp 961.8 billion. In contrast, PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI) experienced the largest net foreign sell-off of Rp 287.7 billion. The session saw total foreign purchases of Rp 5 trillion against sales of Rp 4.8 trillion.

Bogor's Collapsed Retaining Wall Repaired with Rp 5.4 Billion Budget

The collapsed 8-metre retaining wall on Jalan Kebon Pedes in Bogor is being rebuilt at a cost of Rp 5.4 billion. The project, managed by the West Java provincial government, is expected to take 150 calendar days. The mayor attributed the January landslide partly to residents dumping rubbish into the river, which blocked water flow and increased pressure on the structure.

Ibas Pushes for Clean, Smart Transportation as a Civilisational Transformation Agenda

MPR Deputy Speaker Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has called for Indonesia's green and smart transportation transformation to be rooted in constitutional mandates, prioritising public welfare over mere physical development. Speaking at a public discussion, he highlighted the need for a comprehensive roadmap integrating technology like AI and IoT to address urban congestion, emissions, and regional infrastructure gaps. Ibas stressed that technological advancement must translate into tangible, accessible public services and align with sustainable, pro-growth, and pro-welfare principles.

The Cowboy Lost the War

The New York Times editorial board declared President Trump lost his war with Iran, as the anticipated peace deal mirrors the 2015 nuclear agreement he previously discarded. Despite massive military expenditure, the US returns to negotiations with diminished global prestige, while Iran gains bargaining power but remains economically and politically battered.

Women's Alliance Breaks Through Police Blockade to Protest at Jakarta's HI Roundabout

Demonstrators from the Women's Alliance of Indonesia (API) forced their way past police barricades to reach the Hotel Indonesia roundabout in Jakarta, protesting against the free nutritious meal programme and rising staple food prices. The group, comprising domestic workers and housewives, clashed verbally with officers after being repeatedly diverted from their planned march route. They also demanded the government fulfil its campaign promise to create jobs.

JKN participant praises swift emergency room service at hospital

A participant of Indonesia's National Health Insurance (JKN) programme has reported receiving prompt and non-discriminatory care at a Yogyakarta hospital's emergency department. Yuni Kaswanti, who has used the scheme since 2016, noted that treatment was immediate and equal to that of general patients, with no additional costs. She expressed hope that BPJS Kesehatan and partner hospitals will continue to improve their already commendable service quality.

Sejadi Field Development in East Kalimantan Boosts Oil Production

The development of the offshore Sejadi oil and gas field in East Kalimantan has added 1,865 barrels of oil per day to national production. The additional output, achieved through a new well and a re-drilled well, underscores the potential for further growth in mature fields. PT Pertamina Hulu Kalimantan Timur (PHKT) reported completing the drilling ahead of schedule and under budget despite technical challenges.

Safeguarding the Digital Public Sphere: Seeking a Middle Path for Podcast Content Supervision in the Social Media Era

The rapid growth of podcasts on social media platforms in Indonesia has outpaced existing broadcasting regulations, leaving controversial and unverified content outside the oversight of the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI). This article argues against a purely regulatory expansion, proposing instead a balanced, adaptive approach. It advocates for co-regulation, a professional code of ethics for creators, culturally sensitive platform moderation, stricter age classification, and enhanced public digital literacy to protect the digital public sphere without stifling freedom of expression.

Non-Civil Servant Madrasah Teacher Incentives to Be Disbursed at End of June

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced that incentive payments for non-civil servant madrasah teachers will begin disbursement at the end of June 2026. Each eligible teacher will receive Rp 1.5 million directly into their bank accounts. The Minister expressed gratitude for the teachers' dedication and reaffirmed the government's commitment to improving their welfare.

Facing Global Dynamics, Government Pushes Fiscal Strengthening and National Economic Transformation

Indonesia's fiscal space is tightening due to rising debt burdens and structural economic challenges, prompting calls for strategic fiscal discipline and economic diplomacy. A member of parliament highlighted that total government debt has reached approximately Rp 8,000 trillion, with significant annual interest payments pressuring the state budget. Meanwhile, an economist noted that the rupiah's depreciation over the past decade reflects unresolved structural issues, underscoring the need for real sector transformation.

Trump Threatens to Attack Iran After Signing Ceasefire MoU, What Now?

US President Donald Trump has threatened to 'bomb the hell out of' Iran if it violates a newly signed 60-day ceasefire agreement, despite the deal being hailed by G7 leaders. The memorandum of understanding, signed digitally by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, aims to pave the way for permanent peace talks and includes provisions for lifting blockades and a US$300 billion economic rehabilitation plan.

Guests Still Present During Hotel Sultan Execution, Police Explain

Jakarta police have clarified that individuals found inside Hotel Sultan during its court-ordered execution were pre-arranged guests, not regular patrons. Separately, 69 people were detained for attempting to obstruct the asset seizure, with police stating they were mobilised masses rather than hotel employees.

Metro Jaya Police Oversee Hotel Sultan Execution, Prioritise Persuasive Dialogue

The Metro Jaya Police deployed over 3,100 personnel to oversee the court-ordered eviction of Block 15 at the former Hotel Sultan in Jakarta, emphasising a persuasive and humanist approach. Despite initial dialogue, the operation was marred by stone-throwing from some occupants, resulting in injuries to 28 officers, one soldier, and two civilians. Police secured 119 individuals for questioning and are investigating the financiers behind the illegal occupation, while urging the public to respect the legally binding court ruling.

29 Officers Injured in Clashes During Hotel Sultan Execution

The execution of a court order at Hotel Sultan in Jakarta turned violent, resulting in injuries to 29 security personnel. Police reported that 26 officers sustained minor injuries from stone-throwing, while one soldier and two civilians were also hurt. Authorities have detained 69 individuals for allegedly obstructing the enforcement of the court ruling.

UAE Media: Oil Prices May Take Weeks to Stabilise

Oil prices could take four to eight weeks to stabilise even if the Strait of Hormuz reopens this week, according to analysts cited by UAE-based Gulf News. A backlog of tankers, high insurance costs, low inventories, and lingering geopolitical risks are expected to keep a risk premium in energy markets. The crisis has also underscored the need for Gulf states to develop alternative export routes to bolster energy security.

Customs 'Red Line' Operation Uncovers Frozen Meat and Electric Dynamos

Indonesia's Customs and Excise at Tanjung Priok port have intensified inspections of imported goods, successfully reducing a backlog of containers flagged for high-risk checks from 3,100 in May to 700 by mid-June. The accelerated 'red line' operation has led to the discovery of various imported items, including frozen buffalo meat from India and electrical components from China. The initiative aims to curb illegal imports while easing port congestion through extended working hours and additional inspection facilities.

ASEAN-Russia Summit: Indonesia Pushes for Strategic Food and Energy Cooperation

Indonesia, represented by Foreign Minister Sugiono, actively promoted strategic cooperation in food and energy security at the 35th ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan. The summit served as a platform to evaluate past achievements and chart a future roadmap for the partnership amid complex geopolitical dynamics. Indonesia also reiterated the importance of international collaboration for maintaining peace and stability.

Perbanas Research Reveals Facts Behind MSME Credit Weakening, Not Due to Bank Rejection

The Indonesian Banks Association (Perbanas) has launched an MSME Centre and unveiled preliminary research findings on the sector's challenges. The study indicates that the current weakening of MSME credit is not primarily caused by banks rejecting applications. The initiative aims to strengthen the backbone of the Indonesian economy through collaboration between the banking industry, MSME ecosystems, and policymakers.