Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,644 articles

Execution of State Land at Former Hotel Sultan Turns Chaotic, 69 Detained

The execution of a court order to vacate state land at the former Hotel Sultan site in Central Jakarta turned violent, resulting in 69 people being detained and 29 security personnel injured. Authorities deployed a combined force of 3,161 military and police personnel to secure the operation after a group resisted and threw objects at officers. Officials stressed that the execution followed legal procedures and warned against obstructing court rulings.

Health Protection Increasingly Crucial Amidst Uncertainty

Rising medical costs are placing significant strain on household finances, with some treatments costing hundreds of millions of rupiah. The experience of a worker facing over Rp200 million in medical bills highlights the critical role of health insurance in safeguarding savings. Industry players note that regulatory changes and growing awareness are driving positive trends in the health insurance sector.

Ministry of Law Hands Over 6.3 Hectares of Land to Social Affairs Ministry for 'Sekolah Rakyat' Construction

The Ministry of Law has transferred 6.3 hectares of land in Tangerang to the Ministry of Social Affairs for the construction of a 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School). The initiative, described as a voluntary offer by the Law Minister, aims to provide educational facilities for underprivileged communities. The Social Affairs Minister welcomed the contribution, noting that land availability is a crucial requirement for the programme, which is typically reliant on regional government support.

Central Jakarta Court Evicts Former Hotel Sultan, Assisted by Police and Military

The Central Jakarta District Court has executed an eviction order for the former Hotel Sultan site, with assistance from the Indonesian National Police and the Indonesian National Armed Forces. The court ruled that the state is the rightful owner of the land, and the building rights previously held by Indobuildco expired in 2023. The government plans to repurpose the asset for public prosperity, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive to reclaim state assets controlled by other parties.

People's School Teacher Vacancies Open June 2026: Check Registration Requirements and Salary Details Here!

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs will open 5,127 contract-based government positions (PPPK) for educators at 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) in June 2026. The recruitment targets diploma holders with a minimum GPA of 3.10, aged 20 to 45, to fill roles including student mentors and administrative staff. This initiative aims to expand the government's educational programme across various regions.

TBS Prices Fall Ahead of PT DSI Launch, 2 Million Palm Oil Farmers Suffer Losses

The establishment of a state-owned export consolidator for key commodities has triggered a sharp drop in fresh fruit bunch prices, causing daily losses of up to Rp 100 billion for smallholders. Industry groups attribute the decline to market uncertainty and delayed purchases, though they support the new policy as a means to improve investment and oversight. Farmer unions are calling for immediate government socialisation to address widespread confusion among the roughly 2 to 3 million affected growers.

Indonesia, Uzbekistan eye women-led export growth

Indonesia and Uzbekistan are exploring joint programmes to boost women-led enterprises and expand bilateral trade. Following talks in Tashkent, officials identified tea, chocolate, dried fruits, modest fashion, and cosmetics as key products with strong export potential. The cooperation aims to enhance market access and competitiveness for women entrepreneurs through capacity-building and improved business networks.

Agriculture Ministry Prepares Water Security Measures to Anticipate El Niño Threat

Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture is implementing a multi-pronged strategy to safeguard water resources and irrigation infrastructure against the predicted El Niño phenomenon. The plan combines physical infrastructure development with anticipatory, adaptive, and mitigative approaches to maintain rice production and achieve a 1 million tonne increase by 2026. State-owned fertiliser company Pupuk Indonesia has also confirmed sufficient subsidised fertiliser stocks to support farmers during the dry season.

Viral Video of Students Detaining Intelligence Officer on Campus, UMY Speaks Out

Students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta briefly detained a plainclothes police intelligence officer on campus following a peaceful protest, sparking a viral social media incident. University leadership mediated the situation, emphasising dialogue over physical confrontation, and the matter was resolved amicably after the Yogyakarta Regional Police clarified the officer was officially assigned to monitor the demonstration. All parties praised the mature communication that prevented the misunderstanding from escalating.

Higher Education Ministry Reviews Regulations for Adequate Accommodation of Lecturers with Disabilities

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is reviewing regulations to extend mandatory disability accommodations beyond students to include lecturers and academic staff. The current ministerial regulation only explicitly protects students, prompting the ministry to evaluate broader inclusivity measures. The government is also providing financial incentives of up to Rp40 million to encourage universities to establish and strengthen Disability Service Units.

Hotel Sultan Land Execution: Legal Counsel Details History of State Asset

The execution of the Hotel Sultan land in Jakarta marks the end of a two-decade legal battle to reclaim a state asset. Government legal counsel Chandra Hamzah detailed the historical basis of the state's ownership, clarifying that the land was only licensed for use, not sold. The operation, secured by thousands of personnel, follows a final court ruling to return the Gelora Bung Karno complex land to the state.

Netanyahu Cast Aside by Trump as US Excludes Israel from Iran Deal

Tensions between the US and Israel have escalated after Washington excluded Israel from a draft peace agreement with Iran. Israeli officials claim they have not been shown the memorandum of understanding, despite President Trump stating otherwise. The snub poses a significant political challenge for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of crucial elections.

Ragunan Zoo Offers Free Entry to Celebrate Jakarta's 499th Anniversary

The management of Ragunan Zoo is offering free admission and interactive quizzes with prizes on selected dates in June 2026 to mark Jakarta's 499th anniversary. The initiative, aligned with the city's transformation vision, aims to provide educational entertainment and foster environmental awareness and civic pride. The free entry days are scheduled for 22 June and 27–28 June 2026.

Democratic Politicians Demand Transparency on Trump's Golden Dome Project

Democratic lawmakers in the United States are pressing the Trump administration for detailed explanations on the planned 'Golden Dome' missile defence system. Citing a Congressional Budget Office estimate that costs could reach 1.2 trillion dollars, they argue the Pentagon must justify the project's mission and capabilities before further taxpayer money is spent. The legislators have set a 30 June deadline for the Defence Department to respond to a series of detailed questions about the system's architecture, cost, and strategic implications.

Waste Volume in Karangasem Increases by 2 Tonnes During Galungan

The volume of waste in Karangasem Regency rose by up to two tonnes during the Galungan holiday, primarily consisting of organic ceremonial remnants. The Environmental Agency deployed additional truck trips to manage the surge, while crediting stricter waste separation rules for keeping the daily baseline lower than in previous years.

Hotel Sultan Execution Succeeds, Evacuation Process Underway

The Central Jakarta District Court, backed by joint military and police forces, has successfully executed a court order to reclaim the Hotel Sultan site in the Gelora Bung Karno complex. The eviction of the property, known as Blok 15, is currently in progress, with authorities detaining 69 individuals following clashes. The government's legal representative reiterated that the state never transferred ownership rights to the land, which will now be managed as a state asset.

Through Exclusive Service, BRI Prioritas Offers Rewards to Customers

Bank BRI has launched 'BRI Prioritas', an exclusive service targeting affluent customers with personalised wealth management and financial planning. The programme offers integrated solutions, dedicated relationship managers, and a welcome reward of up to Rp 15 million for new or upgrading customers who meet specific fund requirements. This move reflects the growing demand among Indonesian professionals and entrepreneurs for more tailored and comprehensive banking services.

The Guardians of Indonesia's Rhinos

Indonesia bears a critical global responsibility as the last refuge for the Javan and Sumatran rhinos, two of the world's rarest species. Their survival is threatened by habitat loss and climate change, making conservation efforts vital not only for the rhinos but also for the broader tropical forest ecosystem and carbon storage. The Yayasan Badak Indonesia (YABI) exemplifies the multi-stakeholder approach needed, combining habitat protection, community engagement, and education to prevent their extinction.

Revealed: The Figure of Pontjo Sutowo, Owner of the Disputed Hotel Sultan Jakarta

The identity of Pontjo Sutowo, the man behind the protracted legal dispute over the Hotel Sultan Jakarta land, has come under scrutiny as authorities execute a court-ordered eviction. Sutowo is the CEO of PT Indobuildco and the heir to the hotel's management, which was originally built by his family. The execution, involving over 3,000 personnel, marks the latest chapter in a decades-long conflict between the Indonesian government and the company over the state-owned land in the Gelora Bung Karno complex.

Three Scenarios for the Rupiah's Fate Following Bank Indonesia's RDG

The rupiah weakened ahead of Bank Indonesia's (BI) Board of Governors meeting, with markets awaiting the central bank's monetary policy decision. HFX International Berjangka outlined three potential outcomes: a rate hike could strengthen the currency, maintaining the status quo may push it towards Rp17,900, and a hold with hawkish rhetoric could stabilise it. External pressure from the Federal Reserve's policy remains a dominant factor influencing the rupiah's trajectory.

Didit Prabowo Visits Jokowi in Solo, Wearing White Shirt

Didit Prabowo, son of President Prabowo Subianto, paid a visit to former President Joko Widodo at his residence in Solo. The meeting was held behind closed doors, and the topics discussed remain undisclosed. Didit arrived carrying several books and was dressed in a white shirt with navy trousers.

Sucor AM's AUM Reaches Rp 47.22 Trillion, Active Investors Surpass 900,000

PT Sucorinvest Asset Management reported assets under management of Rp 47.22 trillion and over 900,000 active investors by the end of Q1 2026, cementing its position as one of Indonesia's largest retail investment managers. The growth was driven by improved financial literacy, regular investment programmes, and expanded distribution networks. Money market funds proved particularly attractive amid cautious market sentiment, with the Sharia-compliant product seeing such high demand it temporarily sold out.

Perbanas Launches UMKM Centre to Upgrade Micro and Small Enterprises

The Indonesian National Banks Association (Perbanas) has launched an UMKM Centre to help micro, small, and medium enterprises scale up. The initiative aims to address the slow growth in MSME lending by improving business capacity, access to financing, market expansion, and digitalisation. Perbanas noted that while MSMEs contribute over 60% to the national economy, many still rely on internal capital and have not applied for bank credit.

Demonstrations in Bandung Proceed Peacefully, West Java Police Chief: Anticipating Infiltration by Provocateurs

West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Setiawan confirmed that student demonstrations in Bandung on Monday and Wednesday were peaceful and orderly. He stated that joint police and military personnel are securing the protests to prevent infiltration by provocateurs and ensure participant safety. The police chief urged students to exercise their democratic rights responsibly while maintaining public order for the region's progress and prosperity.

Hotspots Surge 205%, Government Declares Six Provinces on Alert for Forest and Land Fires

The Indonesian government has placed six provinces on high alert after satellite monitoring revealed a 205% surge in forest and land fire hotspots compared to the same period last year. Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Djamari Chaniago reported 1,007 hotspots as of mid-June 2026, with over 81,000 hectares already burned. Authorities are particularly concerned about the onset of El Niño conditions, which are expected to exacerbate the fire risk in vulnerable regions such as Riau, Jambi, and South Sumatra.

Pertamax Fuel Prices Could Fall Again, Here's the Signal

The Indonesian government and Pertamina have indicated that non-subsidised fuel prices, such as the Pertamax series, could decrease following a significant drop in global crude oil prices. Brent crude has fallen nearly 15% this month, prompting officials to confirm that retail prices are adjusted according to market mechanisms. The government maintains that any price adjustments will be implemented gradually to protect domestic purchasing power.

Bloomberg Media Partners with Cision to Integrate Its Journalism into Communication Workflows

Bloomberg Media has forged a partnership with media intelligence leader Cision to embed its full-text premium journalism directly into the CisionOne platform. The integration allows corporate communications teams to monitor and interact with Bloomberg's financial reporting within their existing workflows. The collaboration aims to provide a seamless experience for mutual clients, enhancing strategic decision-making through trusted business news.

Palm Oil Entrepreneurs Propose Commodity Exchange Model to Prevent Monopoly by State-Owned Exporter PT DSI

Indonesian palm oil industry players have voiced concerns and suggestions regarding the government's new single-door export policy for key commodities, set to take effect in June 2026. While supporting the policy's intent, they are urging that the designated state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, operate as a commodity exchange rather than a monopoly to attract investment and ensure better oversight. The policy has already caused market anxiety, leading to a temporary drop in fresh fruit bunch prices and significant daily losses for smallholder farmers.

House Commission VIII Approves Rp 22.49 Trillion Budget Boost for Social Affairs Ministry

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII has approved a significant budget increase of Rp 22.49 trillion for the Ministry of Social Affairs for 2027, raising its total indicative ceiling to Rp 107.20 trillion. The additional funds are earmarked to close critical gaps in social protection programmes, including the Sekolah Rakyat initiative and direct aid for impoverished elderly and disabled citizens. The move aims to meet ambitious targets set by the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN), such as reducing extreme poverty below 0.5 percent and graduating millions from social assistance.

Maktour CEO Fuad Hasan Masyhur Appears at KPK for Questioning in Hajj Quota Corruption Case

Fuad Hasan Masyhur, CEO of PT Makassar Toraja (Maktour), has finally complied with a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) summons to testify in the investigation into alleged corruption involving additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. His appearance follows two previous absences and is part of the case against four suspects, including former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The alleged scheme is estimated to have caused state losses of Rp622 billion.

Contents of Central Jakarta District Court Ruling That Forms Basis for Hotel Sultan Execution

The Central Jakarta District Court has commenced the execution of a vacate order for assets within the Hotel Sultan complex, based on a ruling read out on Thursday. The ruling grants a request from the Minister of State Secretariat and the Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre to reclaim land and buildings on former HGB plots 26/Gelora and 27/Gelora. The court ordered the bailiff to carry out the eviction, with police assistance if necessary, affecting 15 buildings on the disputed land.

OJK Summons Influencers for Promoting Illegal Crypto Platforms

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has summoned several Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) for advertising unlicensed digital asset trading platforms. The influencers have since removed or adjusted the offending content, while the OJK prepares new regulations specifically for financial influencers. The authority reiterated warnings to the public to only use licensed platforms and to be wary of unrealistic investment promises.

Galaxy Data Center Secures US$250 Million Strategic Initial Funding to Build Next-Generation Green Computing Infrastructure

Galaxy Data Center has secured US$250 million in initial strategic funding from a leading global investment firm to expand its data centre platform across Southeast Asia. The Singapore-based company plans to use the capital to accelerate the development of gigawatt-scale AI data centre complexes, focusing on high-density computing, energy efficiency, and low-carbon operations. The investment aims to position Galaxy DC as a key player in the region's sustainable digital infrastructure market amid surging demand for AI and cloud computing.

Forestry Minister Says Forest and Land Fires This Year Worse Than 2023 El Niño Period

Indonesia's Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has warned that forest and land fires have already scorched 81,000 hectares up to May 2026, surpassing the same period in the 2023 El Niño year. He attributed the surge to an earlier dry season and urged stakeholders to strengthen anticipatory measures. Despite the spike, the minister noted Indonesia's long-term progress in reducing fire damage through technology, inter-agency data integration, and law enforcement.

30,000 Prospective Village Cooperative Managers Undergo Military Training, Defence Ministry Explains

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has enrolled 30,000 candidates for the Merah Putih Village Cooperative manager programme and over 5,000 for the Fishermen's Village programme into a 45-day reserve component military training. The initiative aims to instil discipline, leadership, and integrity before they assume their roles. The training combines basic military skills with managerial instruction across 67 military units nationwide.

Putin: Russia ready to continue strategic partnership with ASEAN

Russian President Vladimir Putin has affirmed his country's readiness to deepen its strategic partnership with ASEAN, focusing on security, welfare, and prosperity. Speaking at the ASEAN-Russia summit in Kazan, he highlighted shared moral values and a commitment to a just world order. The summit coincides with the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia relations.

Hotel Sultan Finally Executed by Government: Clashes Erupt, Officers Deploy Water Cannon

The eviction of the former Hotel Sultan in Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno complex turned chaotic on Thursday as protesters clashed with authorities. Security forces deployed a water cannon after demonstrators, claiming to be employees and indigenous community members, threw bottles and stones. The situation was eventually brought under control with several protesters detained.

Lapo in Cengkareng Suspected of Selling Dog Meat, City Administration Tests Samples

The West Jakarta city administration is investigating several Lapo eateries in Cengkareng suspected of selling dog meat dishes. Officials have taken a 250-gram sample from one establishment that admitted to selling the prohibited menu for three months. The action enforces Governor Regulation No. 36 of 2025, which bans the trade, slaughter, and consumption of rabies-transmitting animals to protect public health and food safety.

Will Free Nutritious Meals Continue During School Holidays? Read the Circular!

The National Nutrition Agency has issued a circular confirming that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme will be suspended during school holidays, national holidays, and weekends. The directive also applies to non-student beneficiaries and outlines strict rules for maintaining and securing meal preparation facilities (SPPG) during the break, with violations punishable by operational shutdown. Staff and security personnel are required to remain on duty under specific cost-based funding arrangements.

Anwar Ibrahim and Putin Discuss Oil and Local Currency Use

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met Russian President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the Russia-ASEAN summit in Kazan to explore deeper bilateral cooperation. The talks focused on securing long-term energy supplies, expanding trade and investment using the ringgit and ruble, and collaboration in new technologies. Anwar also praised Putin's stance on Gaza and Iran while reaffirming Malaysia's commitment to strategic energy security.

Meta Employees Revolt Over Forced AI Reassignment, Calling It 'Gulag'

Meta's internal reshuffle to bolster its AI division has sparked a rebellion among employees forcibly transferred to the Applied AI unit. Staff have described the working conditions as soul-destroying and akin to a 'gulag', with one insider hijacking a company presentation to hurl abuse at an executive. The unrest highlights growing internal friction over Meta's aggressive pivot towards artificial intelligence.

Content Creator Kini Perlu Memiliki NIB, Apa Itu? Simak Penjelasannya

The Indonesian government has officially classified content creators as a business activity under the 2025 KBLI, requiring them to obtain a Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB) for legal operation. The NIB, issued via the OSS system, serves as a unique business identity that simplifies licensing and substitutes other administrative documents. This move formalises the commercial activities of influencers, YouTubers, and podcasters who earn income through endorsements and sponsorships.

Indonesia, Japan Deepen Economic Ties Amid Global Uncertainty

Indonesia and Japan are moving to strengthen economic cooperation through a strategy of 'trusted interdependence' to counter geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions. Ambassador Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir highlighted collaboration in energy transition, critical minerals, and talent mobility as key pillars, following President Prabowo's state visit to Tokyo. Business leaders also called for joint public-private efforts and regional initiatives like the ASEAN Power Grid to bolster long-term economic resilience.

Police Arrest 69 People Following Clashes at Hotel Sultan

Jakarta police have detained 69 individuals suspected of obstructing a state asset execution at Hotel Sultan in the Gelora Bung Karno complex. The eviction, involving land used by PT Indobuildco for 50 years under allegedly irregular terms, turned violent when protesters threw stones and bottles at officers. The land was originally acquired by the government around 1959 for the Asian Games IV.

Ministry of Forestry: Papua Highlands Play Strategic Role in Controlling Indonesia's GHG Emissions

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has urged the Papua Highlands provincial government to preserve its vast forests, highlighting the region's critical function in national carbon absorption policies. The province contains over 5.1 million hectares of forest, which acts as a major carbon sink and supports biodiversity and indigenous communities. Maintaining this ecosystem is central to the Indonesia's FOLU Net Sink 2030 programme aimed at mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

Six Blood Donation Myths That Are Nothing but Hot Air

A transfusion medicine consultant debunks six persistent myths that deter healthy individuals from donating blood, highlighting that a single donation can save up to three lives through component separation. The expert stresses that common blood types are in highest demand and that dietary preferences or body size do not automatically disqualify potential donors, provided they meet clinical safety thresholds.

Indonesia Explores Deeper Cooperation with Uzbekistan

Indonesia is pursuing closer trade and investment ties with Uzbekistan, viewing the Central Asian nation as a strategic partner to navigate global economic uncertainty. Bilateral trade has surged 49 per cent over five years to USD 181.4 million in 2025, and both sides are advancing negotiations on a free trade agreement. The partnership aims to connect Southeast Asia's largest economy with a fast-growing Central Asian hub, focusing on sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and the digital economy.

Inside Hotel Sultan During Eviction: Tight Security as Guests Depart

The Central Jakarta District Court executed an eviction order for the former Hotel Sultan site on Thursday, following a protracted land dispute. Court bailiffs and Gelora Bung Karno officials, accompanied by riot police, entered the premises to enforce the ruling. The operation saw remaining guests escorted out as the hotel was secured and returned to the State Secretariat.

Hotel Sultan Execution: Deputy Minister Reveals Prabowo's Directive to Reclaim State Assets

Deputy Minister of State Secretariat Bambang Eko Suhariyanto disclosed that President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the government to reclaim state assets controlled by other parties. The statement was made during the execution of the Hotel Sultan site in the Gelora Bung Karno complex. The Central Jakarta District Court has ordered the eviction and return of the land and buildings to the State Secretariat.

Vice President Reviews Free Nutritious Meals in Ende, Inspects School Facilities

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka inspected the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals programme at a junior high school in Ende, East Nusa Tenggara, ensuring meals were served warm. The visit is part of a broader working tour across five provinces, including NTT, Gorontalo, and Papua, to review strategic infrastructure and community welfare programmes.