Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 1,351-1,400 of 1,644 articles

Central Sulawesi Governor Declares 7-Day State of Emergency After M6.7 Earthquake

The Governor of Central Sulawesi has declared a seven-day state of emergency for four districts affected by a magnitude 6.7 earthquake. The provincial government has allocated funds for basic necessities such as clean water, medicine, and tents for the displaced residents.

IHSG weakens as investors await BI-Rate decision and MSCI release

The Indonesian Composite Index (IHSG) declined on Thursday as market participants adopted a wait-and-see approach ahead of Bank Indonesia's benchmark interest rate decision and the upcoming MSCI review. Analysts expect the index to move sideways with a weakening bias, trading within a range of 6,100 to 6,350. External factors, including signals of a potential US rate hike in 2026, also contributed to the cautious sentiment.

Iran: Peace MoU with US Finalised, to be Signed Digitally

Iran's Foreign Ministry has confirmed the finalisation of a 14-point peace memorandum of understanding with the United States, dubbed the 'Islamabad Memorandum'. The agreement, which will be signed digitally, focuses solely on nuclear issues and sanctions relief, with negotiations set to last up to 60 days. Tehran also indicated that a US commitment to lift its naval blockade is already being implemented, allowing Iranian vessels to move freely.

Police Rescue 400 Pet Cats Before They Could Be Slaughtered for Food

Vietnamese police have dismantled a major cat meat trafficking ring in Ho Chi Minh City, rescuing over 400 live cats and arresting nine suspects. The operation highlights the ongoing illegal trade in stolen pets for consumption, despite existing regulations requiring proof of origin for animals sold for meat.

KPK confirms Fuad Hasan Masyhur attends rescheduled questioning in Hajj quota case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that Fuad Hasan Masyhur, owner of Hajj organiser Maktour, complied with a rescheduled summons for questioning as a witness. The investigation concerns alleged corruption in the allocation of Indonesian Hajj quotas for 2023-2024, which has already seen former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas named as a suspect. A state audit has estimated potential losses in the case at Rp622 billion.

Mandiri Jogja Marathon 2026: Bank Mandiri Launches Village Empowerment Programme Across 28 Villages

Bank Mandiri has launched the 'Mandiri Sahabat Desa' programme as part of the Mandiri Jogja Marathon 2026, targeting 28 villages along the marathon route. The initiative focuses on improving village infrastructure, empowering local economies, and enhancing social welfare, reinforcing the bank's commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.

Elderly Man Found Dead Bound with Wire in Tangerang, Believed Deceased for Four Days

A 75-year-old man was discovered dead and bound with wire at a park in Tangerang, with police estimating he had died four days prior. His mobile phone and money were found intact on the body, ruling out robbery as an immediate motive. Authorities are conducting a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.

South Jakarta Environment Agency: Illegal Dumping Can Lead to Rp500,000 Fine

The South Jakarta Environment Sub-agency has warned that individuals caught illegally dumping rubbish in public spaces face an administrative fine of up to Rp500,000. The penalty enforces a 2013 regional regulation on waste management and aims to deter repeat offences. Fines are paid directly into the regional treasury, with violators receiving digital confirmation of the transaction.

Sony Brings Notebook to AGO Examination on MBG Corruption Justice Collaborator Bid

Former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, appeared at the Attorney General's Office for further questioning regarding corruption in the free nutritious meal programme. His lawyer indicated the examination relates to Sony's application to become a justice collaborator, having previously named 26 individuals to investigators. The AGO is assessing whether his testimony is still needed and the extent of JC status that could be granted.

Hotel Sultan Land Execution Turns Chaotic as Officers Pelted with Stones

The court-ordered eviction of Hotel Sultan in Central Jakarta descended into chaos when a group opposing the execution threw stones and wood at security forces. Police deployed water cannon and made several arrests after the court bailiff read out the legally binding ruling to return the land to the State Secretariat.

Indonesia Elected to UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee

Indonesia has been elected to the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage for the 2026-2030 term, following a competitive selection process in the Asia-Pacific group. The Foreign Ministry stated the victory reflects intensive diplomatic lobbying and demonstrates international trust in Indonesia's commitment to cultural preservation. During its tenure, Indonesia pledges to champion inclusive global cultural policies and strengthen the capacity of local communities.

Lawyer Firdaus Oiwobo Reports Former UGM Student Leader Tiyo Ardianto to Police Over Criticism of Free Meal Programme

Prominent lawyer Firdaus Oiwobo has filed a police report against former UGM student body president Tiyo Ardianto, accusing him of insulting President Prabowo Subianto, Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and defaming the government's flagship free nutritious meal programme (MBG). The report, lodged with South Tangerang police, alleges violations of the Criminal Code, including defamation and incitement. Oiwobo warned that further legal action would be taken against others who cross the line from criticism into personal attacks on state officials.

KPK probes money transfers from PT CMC to Fikri Thobari

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating alleged payments from PT Cahaya Mas Cemerlang to the suspended Regent of Rejang Lebong, Muhammad Fikri Thobari. Two company officials were questioned regarding projects in the regency and the flow of funds to the regent. Thobari was previously named a suspect for allegedly demanding a 10โ€“15 per cent kickback from three private firms for project awards.

Hotel Sultan Eviction Ends in Chaos as Supporters Resist

The court-ordered eviction of Hotel Sultan in Jakarta descended into clashes as supporters of the current operator resisted security forces. The government maintains the site is a state asset that must be reclaimed for public benefit, citing irregularities in its 50-year private management.

The Legal Journey of the Hotel Sultan Dispute Leading to Today's Execution

A 26-year land dispute over the Hotel Sultan site in Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno complex reaches its conclusion today with a court-ordered eviction. The Central Jakarta District Court ruled that the expired land titles held by PT Indobuildco must be returned to the state. Authorities have urged the company and occupants to vacate the premises voluntarily to avoid further conflict during the execution.

Trump Admits Global Oil Reserves Will Last Only Four Weeks Without Iran Deal

US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that global oil reserves are critically low, with only about four weeks of supply remaining unless a deal is reached with Iran. The admission underscores the effectiveness of Iran's strategy in restricting access to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil trade. Both nations have now signed a memorandum of understanding to end hostilities and reopen the strategic waterway.

Global Markets Wobble as Hawkish Fed Dashes Rate Cut Hopes

Market expectations for US monetary easing have been pushed back after signals from the Federal Reserve suggest interest rate cuts are not imminent. The prospect of prolonged high rates triggered a risk-off sentiment, causing significant sell-offs in Indonesian equities, with blue-chip stocks like Telkom Indonesia and other listed firms suffering steep early-session losses.

Sony Sonjaya arrives at AGO for questioning in MBG corruption case

Former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Sony Sonjaya arrived at the Attorney General's Office for questioning as a suspect in the alleged corruption of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for 2025-2026. He is one of five suspects, including the former BGN head, and has reportedly applied for justice collaborator status. His lawyer claims Sony was pressured by influential figures and was not the mastermind behind the sale of kitchen service points.

Central Jakarta District Court Reads Verdict on Hotel Sultan Dispute, Execution Process Begins

The Central Jakarta District Court has commenced the execution process for the Hotel Sultan land dispute. The court ruled in favour of the State Secretariat, ordering the hotel premises to be vacated and returned. The execution will be carried out by court officials, potentially with police assistance if necessary.

Freeport Indonesia's Smelter to Begin Operations in September 2026

PT Freeport Indonesia's new copper cathode smelter in Gresik, East Java, is scheduled to commence production in September 2026. The start-up was delayed by a landslide at the Grasberg Block Cave mine in September 2025, which limited concentrate supply. Full mining capacity recovery is targeted for 2028.

Backlog of 3,100 Containers at Tanjung Priok Eases, 700 Remain

The severe container backlog at Tanjung Priok Port's customs inspection area has been significantly reduced from 3,100 to approximately 700 boxes. Customs officials attribute the progress to additional inspection sites, extended working hours, and enhanced coordination with logistics stakeholders. An early warning system is also being developed to prevent future bottlenecks.

Hotel Sultan Execution Turns Chaotic as Crowd Throws Stones and Bottles at Officers

The execution of a court order to vacate the Hotel Sultan land in Jakarta's GBK complex turned violent on Thursday, as a crowd opposing the eviction threw stones and bottles at security forces. The unrest began after the court bailiff read out the execution order, which PT Indobuildco, the respondent, failed to attend. Police responded by deploying water cannon to disperse the protesters.

National Economic Resilience Key to Facing Global Turmoil

Experts at a Bappenas forum stressed that strengthening national economic resilience is crucial for Indonesia to navigate escalating geopolitical uncertainties, including the Middle East crisis. Panellists from government, academia, and the National Economic Council highlighted the need for anticipatory policies, supply chain diversification, and inclusive growth driven by MSMEs. The discussion also explored the potential of Islamic finance instruments, such as using waqf assets for state sukuk, to bolster fiscal stability.

Government to Utilise Former Hotel Sultan Asset for Public Welfare

The Indonesian government has begun executing a court-ordered eviction to reclaim the former Hotel Sultan complex in Jakarta, ending a 20-year legal dispute with PT Indobuildco. The asset, originally acquired for the 1962 Asian Games, will be repurposed for public prosperity under President Prabowo Subianto's directive to return state assets to government control. Authorities are also registering affected employees while managing protests at the site.

Trump: Talks with Putin, Zelenskyy "Very Good"

US President Donald Trump described his recent discussions with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as "very good". He reiterated America's desire for a swift end to the conflict in Ukraine but declined to assign greater blame to either party. The remarks follow Russian statements indicating they await US envoys and that Trump expressed willingness to influence European and Ukrainian partners in the peace process.

KPK probes alleged bid-rigging at Ministry of Transportation during PTDI lecturer examination

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating suspected bid-rigging within the Ministry of Transportation's railway projects. The probe involves examining a lecturer from the Indonesian Land Transportation Polytechnic (PTDI) regarding the manipulation of procurement processes and illicit payments to ministry officials.

Antam Gold Price Drops Rp30,000 on 18 June 2026

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell by Rp30,000 to Rp2,703,000 per gram on Thursday, 18 June 2026. The buyback price also declined to Rp2,475,000 per gram. The movement reflects ongoing fluctuations in global markets and the rupiah exchange rate, drawing attention from domestic investors.

KPK probes ATG procurement in Pertamina petrol station digitalisation project

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the purchase of automatic tank gauge (ATG) systems as part of a broader corruption probe into the digitalisation of Pertamina-owned petrol stations between 2018 and 2023. A witness from a private contractor was questioned, and the investigation is in its final stages with state loss calculations underway. Three suspects have been named, including an individual already implicated in a separate EDC procurement scandal at Bank BRI.

New Phenomenon Emerges in ITC: Cheaper Phones Are No Longer Selling

Global smartphone production is projected to decline sharply in 2026 due to rising component costs and dwindling stocks of cheaper parts, potentially forcing up retail prices. TrendForce reports a 16.2% year-on-year drop in forecast production, with brands focused on entry-level and mid-range devices facing the greatest pressure. In Indonesia, retailers at ITC Kuningan note that new smartphones priced around Rp1.5 million have virtually disappeared, with the cheapest new models now starting at Rp2 million.

Deputy Minister of State Secretariat Firm on Reasons for Hotel Sultan Execution: This is a State Asset!

Deputy Minister of State Secretariat Bambang Eko Suhariyanto personally oversaw the execution of the Hotel Sultan eviction, asserting that the land is a state asset acquired in 1959. He cited a court order, President Prabowo's directive to reclaim state assets, and alleged irregularities during PT Indobuildco's 50-year management as justification for the action.

Bapanas Chief: Absorption of Poultry Farmers' Produce to Be Optimised

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) is stepping up the absorption of poultry products through the Free Nutritious Meals programme to stabilise falling farm-gate prices. Head Amran Sulaiman confirmed coordination with the National Nutrition Agency to increase egg and chicken consumption frequency as a market intervention. The government is also subsidising feed corn distribution to over 5,000 small and medium farmers to lower production costs.

BI-Rate June 2026 Projection: Economists Predict Interest Rate to Hold at 5.5 Percent

Economists project Bank Indonesia will maintain its benchmark interest rate at 5.5% during the June 2026 Board of Governors meeting, following a cumulative 75 basis point hike in recent weeks. The aggressive tightening, including an emergency increase, has helped stabilise the rupiah, though analysts note that sustained recovery hinges on attracting broader foreign capital inflows beyond short-term instruments.

Local Perfume Industry Captures Gen Z's Self-Expression Trend

Indonesia's local perfume industry is adapting to shifting youth lifestyles, with fragrances increasingly used for self-expression rather than mere appearance. Brands are launching versatile scent collections tailored to the daily moods and activities of Generation Z, reflecting a broader opportunity for local players to strengthen their market position.

Death toll from Israeli aggression in Gaza surpasses 73,000

The number of Palestinians killed in the Gaza Strip since October 2023 has reached 73,016, with women and children comprising the majority of victims. Medical sources report that over 173,000 have been wounded, while at least 10,000 remain missing and are presumed dead beneath rubble. The ongoing conflict has triggered the largest displacement of Palestinians since the 1948 Nakba, with nearly two million forced from their homes.

JCI Plunges Over 2%, Extending Sharp Decline

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell more than 2% on Thursday, continuing a significant correction as investors braced for crucial monetary policy decisions. Market focus is locked on Bank Indonesia's imminent rate announcement and the upcoming MSCI Global Market Accessibility Review, both of which could trigger major foreign capital flows.

Purbaya's Visit to China to Prepare Panda Bond: What Are the Benefits for Indonesia?

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa visited Beijing to advance plans for issuing a sovereign Panda Bond, a yuan-denominated debt instrument aimed at Chinese investors. The move is part of a strategy to diversify Indonesia's financing sources, reduce reliance on US dollar-based debt, and strengthen bilateral local currency transactions. The government expects the bond to offer lower borrowing costs and access to China's vast institutional investor base.

Police and Military Tightly Guard Reading of Hotel Sultan Execution Order

Indonesian police and military personnel provided heavy security during the court-ordered execution reading for the Hotel Sultan land dispute in Jakarta. The Central Jakarta District Court's bailiff read the ruling, which orders the eviction of PT Indobuildco and the return of the land to the plaintiffs, after the company failed to appear despite being summoned three times. The execution was met with a protest from a crowd opposing the eviction.

Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank Plans to Open Office in Indonesia

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) intends to establish a representative office in Jakarta to enhance coordination and strengthen its partnership with Indonesia. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa welcomed the plan, expecting the office to be operational by June next year. The move follows Indonesia securing approximately US$17 billion in AIIB funding commitments for national development projects between 2025 and 2029.

Former MDI President Director Faces Verdict in TaniHub Corruption Case

Donald Surjana Wihardja, former President Director of PT Metra Digital Investama (MDI), is set to receive a verdict in a corruption case involving investment funds in PT Tani Group Indonesia (TaniHub). Prosecutors have sought a 12-year prison sentence and a Rp1 billion fine for Donald, who is accused of approving investments based solely on administrative data without proper field verification. The case also implicates other MDI and investment company officials, with alleged state losses totalling millions of US dollars.

Putin Gathers ASEAN Leaders in Kazan as Prabowo Is Absent

Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted ASEAN leaders at a summit in Kazan, Russia, to strengthen economic and strategic ties, notably in the absence of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The meeting focused on expanding trade, investment, and industrial cooperation, while also marking 35 years of Russia-ASEAN relations. Putin held bilateral talks with several leaders and emphasised shared views on sovereignty and a multipolar world order.

Viral Photo of Middle-Aged Woman on Night Patrol in Pasuruan: Village Head Clarifies

A photograph of a 53-year-old woman participating in a neighbourhood watch patrol in Pasuruan, East Java, went viral, prompting the village head to clarify the situation. The official confirmed the woman was substituting for her children as part of a community security agreement, and was not alone as the viral image suggested. The incident highlights local informal social security arrangements in rural Indonesia.

Firewood Collector in Gunungkidul Dies After Falling into 20-Metre Sinkhole

A 56-year-old man from Paliyan, Gunungkidul, was found dead after falling into a 20-metre-deep vertical cave known locally as a 'luweng'. The victim had been searching for firewood in the Alas Turi forest when the accident occurred, and his body was later recovered by a joint police and SAR team. Authorities confirmed the family has accepted the incident as a pure accident.

Children need digital literacy to avoid threats in the digital space

South Tangerang Mayor Benyamin Davnie has stressed the urgent need for parents to equip children with digital literacy to shield them from growing online risks. He highlighted that protecting women and children now requires tackling complex digital threats alongside physical and psychological violence. The city government is strengthening cross-sector collaboration and has provided a 24-hour hotline for reporting abuse.

Gibran, students visit regions to monitor MBG program

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has embarked on a multi-province tour accompanied by university students to monitor the implementation of the government's priority programmes, including the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) scheme. The visit, covering East Nusa Tenggara, Gorontalo, and several Papua provinces, aims to ensure optimal programme delivery and strengthen synergy between regional governments and local communities. The itinerary includes inspecting infrastructure projects, opening a national farmers' week, and reviewing cooperative development plans.

Asia Divided Against Dollar: Rupiah and Ringgit Slump, Won and Yen Strengthen

Asian currencies showed mixed performance against the US dollar after the Federal Reserve signalled a more hawkish stance. The Indonesian rupiah led losses, falling 0.73%, while the South Korean won posted the strongest gains amid rising US bond yields.

AIIB to Open Representative Office in Jakarta to Oversee Rp 301.8 Trillion Funding

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) plans to open a representative office in Jakarta to strengthen coordination for its US$17 billion (Rp 301.8 trillion) funding commitment to Indonesia. The funding, secured for the 2025-2029 period, will support various national development projects. Purbaya stated that AIIB expressed confidence in Indonesia's fiscal management and economic prospects.

Gibran Invites Students on Working Visit to NTT, Gorontalo, and Papua

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has embarked on a working visit to eastern Indonesia accompanied by university student representatives. The trip aims to strengthen oversight of the government's free nutritious meals programme and village cooperative scheme. Gibran expressed gratitude for constructive student input and pledged to ensure the programmes' budgets are free from corruption.

Indonesia's Long Road to OECD Membership

Indonesia's bid to join the OECD, which would make it the first Southeast Asian member of the 'developed country club', enters its second year amid stern warnings on fiscal discipline. The accession process demands deep, practical reforms in governance, subsidy targeting, and public accountability, with large-scale programmes like the free nutritious meal initiative facing heightened scrutiny over corruption risks. Success hinges on ensuring reforms deliver tangible benefits to the public rather than merely securing international status.

Trump Signs Peace MoU with Iran at Versailles Palace, Witnessed by Macron

US President Donald Trump signed a peace memorandum of understanding with Iran at the Palace of Versailles, with French President Emmanuel Macron witnessing the event. The agreement, also signed by Iran's president, is seen as a step towards reopening the Strait of Hormuz and potentially lowering global energy prices. The document was signed in both English and Farsi at Iran's request to ensure transparency.

Deputy Trade Minister Visits Uzbekistan's Deputy PM to Strengthen Trade Cooperation and Women's SME Exports

Indonesia's Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti met with Uzbekistan's Deputy Prime Minister Zulaykho Mahkamova in Tashkent to discuss enhancing women's roles in international trade. Both parties agreed to explore joint seminars and knowledge-sharing programmes to help women-led SMEs access each other's markets. Products such as tea, chocolate, dried fruits, modest fashion, and cosmetics were identified as having strong bilateral trade potential.