Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,644 articles

Seven Indonesian Universities Receive Software Grants to Support Electricity Sector

Seven universities across Indonesia have been awarded grants of Siemens' PSS Sincal power system software to strengthen the country's electrical infrastructure. The initiative aims to equip students with industry-grade simulation tools for designing and optimising more resilient and sustainable power networks. The grants, valued at Rp100 million each, include workstations and will be integrated into university curricula, alongside a planned student competition.

PDIP Denies Andi Widjajanto's Presence at Bundaran HI Protest Represents Party Stance

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has distanced itself from the alleged presence of senior cadre Andi Widjajanto at a recent student demonstration at Bundaran HI, Jakarta. Party official Said Abdullah stated that any individual participation does not reflect the party's official position and denied any organisational involvement in the protests. He also dismissed suggestions that criticism from activist Tiyo Ardianto was linked to PDIP merely due to family connections.

Chronology of UMY Students Detaining Intelligence Officer on Campus

Students from Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY) detained an undercover intelligence officer from the Yogyakarta Regional Police who was found on campus following a student protest. The incident, which occurred on 17 June 2026, was resolved peacefully through mediation involving university leadership and the police, who clarified the officer was on an official monitoring assignment.

Women's Alliance Marches with Pots and Pans in Central Jakarta, Demands Fuel Price Cuts

The Indonesian Women's Alliance staged a long march from Dukuh Atas to the Patung Kuda area in Central Jakarta, demanding the government lower fuel prices. Protesters, dressed in pink and carrying pots and flowers, caused traffic congestion at the Kebon Sirih intersection. Police were present to manage the resulting traffic disruptions.

Deputy Minister Ensures Welfare of Ex-Hotel Sultan Employees After State Takeover

Deputy Minister of State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro has assured that the government will protect the rights and welfare of former Hotel Sultan employees following the state's execution of a court order to reclaim the asset. The government, through the Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPK GBK), will register the workers and open communication channels to potentially involve them in future activities at the site. The takeover enforces a court ruling that the land, originally acquired for the 1962 Asian Games, was never legally sold to the previous operator, PT Indobuildco.

Apple to Raise Product Prices Due to Memory Chip Shortage

Apple CEO Tim Cook has warned that the company will be forced to increase product prices due to soaring costs of memory and storage chips. The price hikes are attributed to a global chip shortage driven by high demand from the AI industry, a situation dubbed 'RAMmageddon'. While specific products and timing were not detailed, the announcement comes ahead of the anticipated iPhone 18 launch and potential new foldable device.

Viral Video Allegedly Shows Two Airlangga University Students in Indecent Act on Campus

A video allegedly showing two Airlangga University students engaging in indecent acts inside a classroom has gone viral on social media, sparking widespread criticism. The footage appears to show a male and female student embracing and kissing before noticing they were being recorded. University officials have confirmed the incident and stated they are handling the case according to established procedures.

Bali Police SKCK Service Now Accessible Online, Faster and More Transparent

The Bali Regional Police have launched an integrated online system for processing Police Record Certificates (SKCK), significantly reducing bureaucracy. Applicants can now complete the process in under 30 minutes once their documents are verified, enhancing both speed and transparency. The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve public service delivery.

Sukabumi Regency Government Engages All Territorial Units to Map Local Revenue Potential

The Sukabumi Regency administration is mobilising sub-district officials to identify untapped sources of locally generated revenue (PAD) to fund development. A meeting led by the Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) focused on mapping agribusiness and tourism potential, as well as improving tax data collection. The regent has called for transparency and strict adherence to regulations in licensing to boost regional income.

VENTENY Appoints New Deputy CEO and CTO at 2026 AGM

PT VENTENY Fortuna International Tbk (VTNY) has appointed Hosea Sanjaya as Deputy CEO and COO, and Tri Ismardiko Widyawan as Director and CTO, following its 2026 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. The company also reported an 8% rise in 2025 revenue to Rp327.3 billion and a 49% increase in total assets to Rp1.8 trillion, despite challenging economic conditions. VENTENY plans to focus on productive funding services and its Employee Super App to support SMEs and workforce welfare in Indonesia.

Hotel Sultan Execution Completed, Palace: State Assets Safeguarded

The Indonesian government has completed the execution and takeover of the Hotel Sultan site in Jakarta, ending a 50-year period of management by a private party. Officials stated the move upholds state sovereignty and protects national assets, with the land now set for optimisation under new regulations. The process, supported by security forces, saw minor unrest and 69 detentions.

Law Minister to Donate Private Land in Central Sulawesi for 'Sekolah Rakyat'

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has pledged a personal plot of land in Central Sulawesi to support the government's 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme. He intends to privately fund the initial construction before handing the facility over to the Ministry of Social Affairs for operation. The initiative aims to provide education for underprivileged communities, with the Social Affairs Minister reporting improved student confidence and discipline in existing schools.

Rp100 Million Penalty Clause for Kopdes Merah Putih Staff Selection Revoked

The National Selection Committee has revoked the controversial Rp100 million penalty clause for candidates in the Kopdes Merah Putih and Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih programmes. The decision aims to alleviate participant concerns and ensure a more open and accountable selection process. Candidates who previously withdrew due to the penalty are now invited to rejoin the programme.

Indonesia pushes ASEAN-Russia economic integration at Kazan summit

Indonesia, represented by Foreign Minister Sugiono, is championing deeper economic integration between ASEAN and Russia, with a focus on energy and food security, at the ASEAN-Russia Summit in Kazan. The meeting marks 35 years of partnership and aims to set a future cooperation agenda amid global challenges. President Prabowo Subianto delegated his attendance to concentrate on domestic issues, following recent bilateral and regional engagements.

Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Outlines Implementation of ESD in Schools

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has detailed how Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is being integrated into the national curriculum, not as a separate subject but as a cross-cutting perspective. The approach aims to equip students with the awareness and skills to tackle complex challenges like climate change and social issues, with practical examples emerging from regions such as Wakatobi and schools in Jakarta.

Unexpected Remarks from Deputy Minister on the Fate of Hotel Sultan After Eviction

The Indonesian government has executed a court-ordered eviction of Hotel Sultan in Jakarta, ending a two-decade legal dispute with PT Indobuildco. Deputy State Secretary Minister Bambang Eko Suhariyanto stated the government is currently focused solely on reclaiming the state asset, with no decision yet on the building's future use. The eviction, carried out under tight security, marks the conclusion of a lengthy legal process confirming the property belongs to the state.

GBK Management Never Sold Hotel Sultan Land to PT Indobuildco

The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) has clarified that the land occupied by Hotel Sultan was never sold to PT Indobuildco, but merely licensed for 30 years. Following the expiration of the building rights title in 2023, the government successfully executed a takeover of the asset. The reclaimed land will now be managed under Finance Ministry regulations for the benefit of the state and public.

2026 Micro Business Ease and Protection Festival Expands Access and Strengthens MSME Competitiveness

The Indonesian Ministry of MSMEs has launched the 2026 Festival Kemudahan dan Pelindungan Usaha Mikro in Balikpapan to tackle the high rate of informal businesses, with 77 per cent of micro, small, and medium enterprises currently lacking legal status. The initiative integrates business licensing, quality certification, financing access, and capacity building into a single service platform. Officials from the ministry and East Kalimantan's governor stressed that formalising and digitally empowering these enterprises is crucial for strengthening regional economies and reducing unemployment.

Trump Threatens to Attack Iran Again Just Before Signing MoU

US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran hours before signing a memorandum of understanding to end hostilities, stating military action would resume if Tehran failed to comply. The MoU, signed electronically by both leaders, initiates a two-month negotiation period with the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz as a first step. The agreement was confirmed by both Washington and Tehran, though Iran downplayed the need for a formal signing ceremony.

Law Minister Hands Over 6.3 Hectares of Land for 'Sekolah Rakyat' Construction

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has transferred 6.3 hectares of land to support the construction of Sekolah Rakyat, a priority education programme under President Prabowo Subianto. The initiative aims to fulfil the constitutional mandate of providing quality education to underprivileged children. The minister expressed hope that the school would be built and operational swiftly to ensure equal access to education.

Police Coordinate with BPN and PPATK to Trace Assets of Bank Fraud Suspect

Police in Banyumas are collaborating with the National Land Agency and the financial intelligence unit to trace and block assets belonging to a former bank employee accused of defrauding customers. The suspect allegedly ran a fictitious investment scheme, and authorities are examining the financial transactions of family members and associates to identify illicit proceeds. The case has affected at least ten victims, raising concerns about the erosion of public trust in the banking sector.

Minister Bahlil Reveals PLN's Coal Supply Status, 20 Million Tonnes Short

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia disclosed that state electricity firm PLN has secured contracts for 134 million tonnes of coal for 2026, leaving a shortfall of 18 to 20 million tonnes. A special procurement team has been formed with presidential approval to ensure smooth delivery and prevent technical disruptions. The government is also discussing compensation and subsidy payments to maintain optimal public electricity services.

MagangHub Batch 4 to Open in Early July, Here's How to Register

Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower plans to launch the fourth batch of its MagangHub internship programme in July 2026, targeting 150,000 recent graduates. The initiative, backed by a budget of Rp 4.14 trillion, offers work placements, mentorship, and a stipend equivalent to the provincial minimum wage. Registration will be conducted online via the SIAPKerja platform.

Putin: Russia and ASEAN Support a Just World Order

Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia and ASEAN nations jointly advocate for a just world order based on sovereign equality and non-interference. Speaking at a reception during the ASEAN-Russia summit in Kazan, he highlighted shared moral values and independent development models as a source of strength. The summit coincides with the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia partnership and includes a concurrent business forum.

House Approves Indicative Budget Ceiling of Rp 28.34 Trillion for Ministry of Transportation in 2027

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission V has approved an indicative budget ceiling of Rp 28.34 trillion for the Ministry of Transportation for the 2027 fiscal year. This figure falls significantly short of the ministry's strategic plan funding indication of Rp 46.21 trillion, leaving a gap of Rp 17.87 trillion. Minister Dudy Purwagandhi stressed that additional budget support is crucial for priority programmes in safety, basic services, and regional connectivity to achieve optimal transport development targets.

Police: 69 Detained During Hotel Sultan Execution Are Not Employees

Indonesian police confirmed that 69 individuals detained during the execution of a court order to vacate the former Hotel Sultan in Jakarta are not hotel employees but allegedly mobilised outsiders. The operation, backed by a Central Jakarta District Court ruling declaring the Blok 15 site a state asset, turned unruly when the crowd threw stones at officers. Authorities are investigating the group for attempting to obstruct the lawful seizure of the property.

Government Pushes UNESCO to Recognise Tempe as World Cultural Heritage

The Indonesian government is actively seeking UNESCO recognition for tempe as an intangible cultural heritage, with a decision expected by the end of 2026. Officials and the Forum Tempe Indonesia argue the fermented food embodies local wisdom, sustainability, and communal values, extending beyond nutrition to economic and diplomatic significance. A proposed Global Tempe Forum aims to foster international collaboration on research and sustainable ecosystem development.

Body of Man Found Bound with Wire in Tangerang

The body of a 75-year-old private sector employee was discovered tied with wire around his neck at a park in Tangerang. Police reported no signs of physical violence on the body, which is believed to have been deceased for four days prior to discovery by local food stall owners. Authorities have secured personal belongings and are conducting a post-mortem to determine the exact cause of death.

PKB Urges PDIP to Clarify Political Stance, Avoid Ambiguity

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 warned that an ambiguous stance could create confusion and hinder the government's efforts to implement its programmes. The remarks follow PDIP's denial of involvement in recent student demonstrations.

MBG Programme Motorcycles Proposed as Donation to Teachers, JPPI: Problematic Goods Should Not Become Gifts

The Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI) has rejected a proposal to donate thousands of electric motorcycles seized in a corruption probe to teachers, insisting that educator welfare must be planned and not derived from allegedly corrupt project remnants. The motorcycles were sealed by the Attorney General's Office as part of an investigation into the free nutritious meal programme (MBG). JPPI urged that once legal proceedings conclude, the assets should be allocated transparently based on urgent public needs.

Didit Prabowo's Remarks After 30-Minute Meeting with Jokowi in Solo

Didit Prabowo, son of President Prabowo Subianto, paid a brief private visit to former President Joko Widodo at his residence in Solo. The 30-minute meeting took place after Didit attended a Malam 1 Suro cultural event at Mangkunegaran Palace. Both parties declined to disclose the substance of their discussion, describing the encounter simply as a courtesy stop.

Mass Layoffs Threaten Indonesia, Labour Leader Reveals Early Warning Signs

The head of the Nusantara Workers Confederation warns of a potential wave of mass layoffs in Indonesia, citing rising production costs and stagnant consumer purchasing power. He highlights the recent furlough of 4,000 workers at a Bandung shoe factory as a symptom of deeper supply chain and demand issues. The labour leader urges the government to implement protective policies for domestic industry.

Peak of 2026 Dry Season: Schedule, El Niño, and BMKG Recommendations

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts the peak of the 2026 dry season will occur between July and September, with August being the most affected month. The agency warns that the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, predicted to persist until early 2027, could exacerbate drought conditions. BMKG has issued sectoral recommendations covering agriculture, water resources, energy, and public health to mitigate potential impacts.

Judge: Execution of Former Hotel Sultan Upholds Mandate to Protect State Assets

The Indonesian government has executed a court-ordered takeover of the former Hotel Sultan complex in Jakarta, ending nearly 50 years of private management. Deputy Minister Juri Ardiantoro stated the action fulfills a state mandate to safeguard national assets and uphold the country's authority. The reclaimed property, including the hotel and apartments in Blok 15 of the Gelora Bung Karno area, will now be optimised for public benefit under prevailing regulations.

KPK Receives Information on Alleged Extortion at Immigration Offices in Several Regions

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has received new reports from the public regarding alleged extortion practices at immigration offices in various regions. This information will be used to expand the investigation into a recent case involving the processing of residence permits for foreign nationals, which has already led to the arrest of 17 individuals and the identification of Rp145.5 billion in illicit gains.

Danantara Guarantees Existing Coal Export Contracts Will Continue, Here Are the Conditions

Indonesia's Danantara has assured that existing export contracts for strategic natural resources like coal, ferro alloy, and crude palm oil will proceed normally under the new single-door export policy. The key condition is the absence of value manipulation or under-invoicing in transactions. The move aims to maintain business certainty and strengthen international partner and investor confidence during the governance transition.

Government Assures All Former Hotel Sultan Employees Will Not Be Victims of Asset Takeover

The Indonesian government has pledged that the state takeover of the former Hotel Sultan complex will not harm its workers. The Ministry of State Secretariat has instructed the GBK management to prioritise the welfare of affected employees, ensuring they are not sacrificed in the process. A dedicated communication post will be established to facilitate dialogue and explore opportunities for the workers to continue their activities within the GBK area.

NasDem Legislator Highlights Tourism's Absence from 2027 National Priorities, Calls on Minister

A NasDem Party legislator has criticised the government's eight National Priority Work Programmes (PKPN) for 2027, lamenting the exclusion of the tourism sector. Rico Sia argued that tourism, particularly destinations like Raja Ampat, has significant potential to boost Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) but requires adequate budget support. He urged the Tourism Minister to secure more funding, noting her ambition to elevate tourism's PNBP contribution from fourth to first place nationally.

Former Ombudsman Chairman Hery Susanto to Stand Trial on 24 June

Hery Susanto, the former chairman of the Indonesian Ombudsman, will face his first trial on 24 June 2026 at the Jakarta Corruption Court. He is accused of accepting bribes totalling billions of rupiah from several mining companies in exchange for favourable Ombudsman reports during his tenure. The case is linked to broader investigations into corruption within the nickel mining sector.

IHSG Falls 1.06% in First Session Ahead of MSCI and BI Rate Announcements

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) dropped 1.06% to 6,154.92 in the first trading session on Thursday, as investors awaited the Bank Indonesia rate decision and the MSCI Global Market Accessibility Review. Market participants are divided on whether the central bank will raise its benchmark rate further after two recent hikes, while the MSCI review could significantly impact foreign portfolio flows into Indonesian equities.

What Are the Contents of the US-Iran Agreement Now in Effect?

A new agreement between the United States and Iran, signed by President Trump, has come into effect, aiming to end military operations and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The 14-point deal includes commitments to respect sovereignty, a 60-day negotiation window for a final accord, and the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports. The agreement also stipulates that Iran will never possess nuclear weapons and allocates $300 billion for its economic reconstruction, though the US is not obliged to contribute.

Finance Minister Purbaya Secures Chinese Support for Panda Bond, AIIB Readies US$17 Billion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has secured crucial backing from China's Ministry of Finance for Indonesia's planned Panda Bond issuance, dispelling prior fiscal concerns. In a parallel development, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has committed US$17 billion in long-term funding for Indonesian development projects through 2029 and plans to open a Jakarta office.

Trump: Without Peace Deal, Iran Could Be Bombed for Up to Two Years

US President Donald Trump warned that without a peace agreement, military strikes on Iran could continue for up to two years. He also claimed the deal prevented an economic catastrophe and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, while taking credit for the killing of Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani.

Hotel Sultan's Breakfast Buffet Becomes Silent Witness to Execution Process

The untouched breakfast buffet at Hotel Sultan served as a stark backdrop to the court-ordered eviction of the property on Thursday. The operation, involving over 3,100 security personnel, was met with resistance from a crowd outside, resulting in 29 injuries and 69 arrests. The legal counsel for the Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre confirmed the physical execution of the court ruling for the area known as Block 15.

4,131 Personnel Deployed to Secure Today's Protest Actions

Jakarta police have mobilised 4,131 joint personnel to safeguard public demonstrations across the capital today, 18 June 2026. The deployment prioritises preemptive and preventive measures with a persuasive, humanist approach to ensure public order. Authorities have also warned of situational traffic diversions and urged protesters to remain orderly.

Geothermal Development Delivers Tangible Benefits for Regional Development

Indonesia's geothermal sector is proving to be more than just a source of clean electricity, delivering significant social and economic benefits to regional communities. A national seminar highlighted how direct-use applications, production bonuses, and community empowerment programmes are driving local development. Examples include Garut Regency receiving Rp137.84 billion in bonuses for infrastructure and Star Energy's mushroom farming initiative that boosts incomes and reduces emissions.

Indonesia's Megathrust Zone Updated, Japanese Expert Reveals Most Dangerous Areas

Indonesia's megathrust zones have been officially updated to 14 high-risk points, raising international concern. Japanese geophysics expert Professor Kosuke Heki warns that the geological structure mirrors Japan's volatile Nankai Trough, with constant tectonic pressure accumulating for a potential massive release. Authorities urge public calm and improved mitigation, highlighting seismic gaps in the Sunda Strait and Mentawai region that have been dormant for centuries.

Jogja City Increases PPDB Capacity, Affirmative Quota Rises to 25 Percent

The Yogyakarta city government has expanded the affirmative quota for its student admission system (PPDB) to 25 percent, a five percent increase from last year. The policy aims to broaden educational access for underprivileged families and students with disabilities, with the city guaranteeing placement for all disabled applicants. Total available seats have also been increased to 3,584 with the addition of two new classes at SMPN 10.

Government Maintains Minyakita Cooking Oil Retail Price Cap

The Indonesian government has confirmed it will keep the highest retail price (HET) for the Minyakita brand of cooking oil at Rp15,700 per litre. Trade Minister Budi Santoso stated the focus is now on strengthening distribution through state-owned food enterprises Bulog and ID FOOD to ensure wider market availability. The government is also encouraging producers to increase output of alternative affordable cooking oil brands to provide consumers with more choice.

Manpower Minister Highlights Need for Equitable Distribution in 2026 National Internship Programme

Minister of Manpower Yassierli has stressed the importance of a more balanced geographical distribution of participants and companies in the upcoming 2026 National Internship Programme (MagangHub). The first batch was heavily concentrated in Java, particularly Jakarta, and the government now plans to use provincial graduate data to ensure proportional opportunities across regions. The programme aims to connect 150,000 fresh graduates with companies, with the first phase targeting 50,000 participants starting in July.