Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 1,401-1,450 of 1,644 articles

Social Affairs Minister Proposes Doubling of 'Sekolah Rakyat' Budget

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has proposed nearly doubling the budget for the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme to accommodate an expansion from 48,000 to 100,000 students by 2027. The additional funds, sought on top of this year's Rp 4.3 trillion allocation, would support the transition from temporary facilities to permanent school buildings. The minister also noted a phased relocation plan and a request for local government assistance to supply teachers during the initial months of operation at the new sites.

Rupiah Weakens Further, Approaching Rp18,000 Against US Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah opened weaker on Thursday, 18 June 2026, falling 94 points to Rp17,856 per US dollar amid global market pressures. The decline, which mirrors a downturn in the domestic stock market, raises concerns for importers and industries reliant on foreign raw materials, with Bank Indonesia expected to intervene to curb excessive volatility.

KPK suspects distribution of funds to certain parties in PPT ET case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that illicit funds in the PPT Energy Trading corruption case were disguised as bonus payments to certain individuals. The investigation, which began in July 2025, concerns alleged corruption in capital investment and long-term loan management at the Indonesia-Japan joint venture between 2015 and 2022. The case is also linked to a separate corruption probe into liquefied natural gas procurement at state-owned Pertamina.

Deputy Minister Fauzan urges collaboration for higher education transformation

Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Technology Fauzan has called for multi-party collaboration to transform Indonesia's higher education sector, arguing that the nation can no longer afford a 'business as usual' approach. He highlighted the need for universities to work together through consortia to produce tangible value for regional development. The initiative aims to consolidate fragmented research efforts and implement joint programmes such as cross-campus research and thematic community service projects.

Minister Bahlil Officially Issues New Regulation on Coal Blending

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has enacted a new ministerial regulation governing coal blending to ensure supply reliability and quality for domestic power and industry. The regulation introduces mandatory reporting, strict blending approval procedures, and administrative corrections to the work plan process. It requires written ministerial consent for blending activities and detailed quality data submissions from permit holders.

Ministry of Agriculture Warns Public of Hoax Recruitment for 2026 Agricultural Census

Indonesia's Ministry of Agriculture has issued a warning about a fraudulent recruitment scheme circulating on social media, falsely offering positions as census officers for the 2026 Agricultural Census. The hoax promises salaries between Rp 5 million and Rp 8 million and directs applicants to unofficial links. The ministry urges the public to avoid clicking suspicious links, safeguard personal data, and rely solely on official government channels for verified information.

Ministries and Agencies Queue Up for 2027 Budget Top-Ups, Here's the List

Several Indonesian ministries and state bodies have requested significant additional funding for the 2027 fiscal year during preliminary discussions with the House of Representatives (DPR). The proposed increases, ranging from hundreds of billions to tens of trillions of rupiah, are intended to support priority programmes including industrial restructuring, food sovereignty, and village cooperative development.

Islamic Economic Outlook 2026 Maps Impact of Middle East Crisis on Indonesia

A collaborative forum at Bappenas examined how the Iran-US-Israel regional crisis could affect Indonesia's national economy and sharia economic ecosystem. Stakeholders stressed the need for adaptive strategies to turn geopolitical uncertainty into a transformation opportunity, particularly by strengthening the halal industry. The forum aimed to provide strategic options for maintaining stability and leveraging the halal economy as a growth catalyst.

Track Record of Brigadier General Putu Putera Sadana, Now Head of BNNP Bali

Brigadier General Putu Putera Sadana has been officially appointed as the new Head of the Bali Provincial Narcotics Agency (BNNP Bali), succeeding Brigadier General Budi Sajidin. A native of Mengwi, Badung, Sadana brings extensive experience from various postings within the Indonesian National Police, including international assignments. He has pledged to pursue a 'war on drugs for humanity' to protect Bali from narcotics threats.

BPJPH stresses importance of expanding halal certification for regional MSMEs

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) is urging regional governments and institutions to collaborate on expanding halal certification access for micro and small enterprises (UMK). The initiative aims to strengthen local halal ecosystems and boost product competitiveness ahead of the mandatory halal implementation deadline in October 2026. As of mid-June 2026, over 23,000 businesses have obtained halal certificates, predominantly through the streamlined SEHATI self-declare scheme.

Plants Revealed to Have Internal Communication System to Survive Global Warming

New research from the Australian National University has uncovered a complex internal coordination mechanism in plants that allows them to maintain photosynthesis during extreme heat and dry air. The study, published in PNAS, shows that plants adjust carbon dioxide movement within leaf tissues, challenging the long-held belief that they simply close their pores and reduce energy production. This discovery is crucial for understanding how global food production and climate balance might be preserved as the planet warms.

IHSG Opens Down 0.46% to 6,191 on 18 June 2026

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened lower on Thursday, 18 June 2026, declining 28.85 points to 6,191.89. The 0.46% drop reflects cautious investor sentiment amid fluctuating global markets and profit-taking in blue-chip stocks. Analysts expect the index to consolidate throughout the day as market participants monitor currency movements and economic data releases.

Freeport Smelter Targeted to Begin Production in September 2026

PT Freeport Indonesia aims to commence production at its new Manyar copper cathode smelter in Gresik, East Java, by September 2026. The facility has faced concentrate supply shortages following a landslide at the Grasberg Block Cave mine in September 2025. Production capacity at the mine is expected to recover gradually, reaching 65 percent by the second half of 2026.

Situation at Hotel Sultan Ahead of Execution

A crowd has gathered at the Hotel Sultan site in Jakarta's GBK complex, protesting the scheduled court-ordered execution. The eviction, set to be carried out by Central Jakarta District Court bailiffs, has prompted demonstrators to set up a command vehicle and display banners rejecting the action.

Shock as Elderly Man Found Dead, Bound with Wire at Taman Pramuka in Tangerang City

The discovery of a 75-year-old man's body hanging from a fence with wire around his neck has shocked residents of Tangerang City. The deceased, identified by the initials S, was found in Taman Pramuka park after local food stall owners noticed a foul odour. Police are currently investigating the cause of death and have secured personal belongings and the wire at the scene.

MSCI Announcement Looms Tomorrow, OJK Advises Investors to Stay Calm

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has urged investors to remain calm and avoid panic ahead of two crucial MSCI announcements this week. The MSCI Accessibility Review and Market Classification Review, due on 19 and 24 June respectively, are expected to influence foreign capital flows into the Indonesian stock market. OJK officials confirmed they have provided all necessary data to MSCI and emphasised that the review is a routine process for all markets, not just Indonesia.

BSI's MSME Financing Reaches IDR 25.69 Trillion, Growing 14 Percent

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk (BSI) has reported its micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) financing portfolio reached IDR 25.69 trillion as of April 2026, marking a 13.67 percent year-on-year increase. The growth was driven by sectors tied to public activity such as agriculture, wholesale and retail trade, and education services. BSI is coupling this financial expansion with digital transformation tools and business mentoring programmes to bolster MSME competitiveness.

Israel Left Frustrated as Trump Acknowledges Iran's Right to Possess Ballistic Missiles

US President Donald Trump has stated that Iran should be permitted to retain some of its ballistic missiles, dealing a significant blow to Israel's long-standing demand for their complete dismantlement. Trump argued it would be unfair to deny Iran such capabilities while other regional powers possess them, signalling a potential shift in US policy. The remarks came as both nations formalised a memorandum of understanding, with further talks on the missile programme expected over the next 60 days.

Freeport Boss Reveals Draft Divestment Agreement for 12% Stake Submitted to Government

PT Freeport Indonesia has submitted a draft agreement to the government for the divestment of a 12 percent stake, a key condition for extending its mining permit beyond 2041. The share transfer must be completed before the new IUPK is issued, as outlined in a memorandum of understanding signed earlier this year. The agreement also includes commitments to increased community support in Papua and prioritising domestic downstream processing.

Deputy Minister Says Hotel Sultan Execution Part of Prabowo's Orders

The Indonesian government has executed a court-ordered eviction of the Hotel Sultan land in Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno complex, acting on President Prabowo Subianto's directive to reclaim state assets. Deputy Minister Bambang Eko Suhariyanto stated the strategic asset, used by PT Indobuildco for 50 years, must now be utilised for public prosperity. Over 3,000 security personnel were deployed to enforce the eviction, which proceeded without delay.

Finance Minister Purbaya secures USD 17 billion in funding from AIIB

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has secured a USD 17 billion funding commitment from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank for national development projects between 2025 and 2029. The agreement was reached during bilateral talks in Beijing and forms part of a multi-year rolling pipeline. The AIIB also expressed interest in opening a representative office in Jakarta to strengthen strategic cooperation.

KPK Reschedules Examination of PT Infinity International Director in Customs Corruption Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has postponed the questioning of Ali Susanto, a director at forwarding company PT Infinity International, after he failed to attend a scheduled hearing. Susanto is a witness in a major graft investigation involving the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, which has already seen six suspects charged. The KPK emphasised the importance of uncovering the full extent of the import-related corruption to enable systemic reforms.

US Pledges to Lift Iran Sanctions Under Peace MoU

The United States has committed to lifting all sanctions against Iran within an agreed timeframe, according to a draft memorandum of understanding. The document also reaffirms Iran's pledge not to produce or acquire nuclear weapons. Both parties aim to finalise a comprehensive agreement resolving Iran's nuclear issue within 60 days, with an option to extend the deadline.

Freeport Submits Draft Agreement for 12 Percent Stake Divestment to Indonesian Government

PT Freeport Indonesia has submitted a draft share divestment agreement to the Indonesian government, a key condition for extending its special mining permit (IUPK) beyond 2041. The transfer of a 12 percent stake from Freeport-McMoRan to the government must be signed before the new permit is issued. This follows a memorandum of understanding signed earlier this year in Washington DC.

Antam Gold Price Plunges Rp30,000 Today, Nearing Rp2.6 Million

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell sharply by Rp30,000 per gram on Wednesday, bringing it close to the Rp2.6 million mark. The decline snapped a recent strengthening trend, with the buyback price also dropping by Rp39,000 to Rp2,475,000 per gram. The article details the latest retail prices and applicable tax rates for gold purchases and buyback transactions.

Opinion: Indonesia's Capital Market Still Plagued by Transparency Issues

Indonesia's ambition to attract global investment for 8% economic growth by 2029 is threatened by persistent transparency concerns in its capital market. Recent MSCI index rebalancing, which removed several Indonesian stocks, underscores the urgent need for regulatory reform and stricter oversight. The article argues that enhancing transparency, enforcing disclosure rules, and boosting retail investor literacy are critical to restoring market confidence and achieving national development targets.

Shipping Company PSAT Reports Revenue Growth Amid Profit Decline

PT Pancaran Samudera Transport Tbk (PSAT) recorded a 9.9% increase in revenue to Rp1.07 trillion in 2025, driven by sustained demand for its mining transport services. However, net profit fell sharply to Rp23 billion from Rp242 billion a year earlier due to rising operational costs, including fuel and short-term vessel charters. The company continued its asset expansion, with total assets rising 12% to Rp1.69 trillion as it invests in fleet strengthening for future growth.

Rupiah Weakens to Rp 17,863 Ahead of BI Rate Decision and Iran-US Peace Deal

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to Rp 17,863 per US dollar in early Thursday trading, extending its decline ahead of Bank Indonesia's crucial policy meeting. Market attention is focused on the central bank's aggressive rate hikes aimed at stabilising the currency. Separately, the government has secured alternative long-term oil supply contracts to reduce reliance on Middle Eastern imports and mitigate geopolitical risks.

IKPI Urges Businesses to Adapt Amid Tax System Transformation

The Indonesian Tax Consultants Association (IKPI) has called on businesses to continuously adapt to evolving tax regulations and the full implementation of the Core Tax Administration System (CTAS). IKPI Chairman Vaudy Starworld emphasised that proactive compliance should be viewed as a strategic asset rather than a burden. The association is positioning itself as a strategic partner to guide enterprises, particularly young entrepreneurs, through the changes to support good corporate governance and state revenue.

CCTV Captures Brutal Assault as Four Motorbike Thieves Apprehended in Bandung

CCTV footage recorded a violent robbery in Bandung where a man returning from work was slashed with sharp weapons. The victim managed to save his motorbike, but the perpetrators stole a phone and vehicle from a delivery driver who attempted to intervene. Police swiftly tracked and arrested four suspects using the stolen phone's location.

Purbaya Secures US$17 Billion Funding Commitment from AIIB

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has secured a US$17 billion funding commitment from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) for national development projects spanning 2025-2029. The agreement, reached during bilateral talks in Beijing, also includes plans for AIIB to open a representative office in Jakarta. The minister stated the multilateral bank expressed strong confidence in Indonesia's fiscal management and economic prospects.

Suspected Fraud: Offering Loan Default Services, Operations of 2 Companies Halted!

Indonesia's Task Force for the Eradication of Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas PASTI) has suspended the operations of Universal Peak and BAFI Group Indonesia. The entities are suspected of fraudulent activities involving unlicensed stock investments and offering illegal services to resolve online loan and credit card defaults. The public is urged to report any losses to local law enforcement.

Viral Video of Alleged Police Intel Detained at UMY Campus, Yogyakarta Police Respond

Yogyakarta Regional Police have confirmed that a plainclothes officer detained by students at Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) was part of a public order monitoring operation. The incident, which went viral on social media, was described as a misunderstanding and has been resolved through dialogue with university officials. The officer was tasked with ensuring the safe return of students from a demonstration at Yogyakarta's Zero Kilometre Point.

Pertamina Confirms Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices Follow Market Mechanism

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that the pricing of its non-subsidised Pertamax series fuels adheres to the government's market price formula. The adjustment for June reflects only 50% of the international market price gap to maintain domestic purchasing power. Subsidised fuels like Pertalite and Biosolar remain unchanged.

KPK Temporarily Halts Investigation into MBG Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has decided to temporarily suspend its preliminary investigation into alleged corruption within the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). The decision follows the Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) taking over the case and naming three former BGN officials as suspects. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto expressed confidence in the Kejagung's handling of the matter, citing the need to avoid overlapping investigations.

Indonesia eyes $56 mln monthly savings from MBG efficiency

The Indonesian government expects to save around Rp1 trillion ($56 million) per month by improving the governance of its free nutritious meal (MBG) programme. Efficiency measures include a moratorium on new kitchens, which have already exceeded targets, and a sharper focus on the most vulnerable groups such as pregnant women and toddlers. The 2026 budget for the programme has also been reduced from Rp335 trillion to Rp268 trillion.

Truecaller Ads Launches 'Call-to-Cart', a New Commerce Surface Built on Communication Layers

Truecaller Ads has globally launched 'Call-to-Cart', an AI-powered solution that transforms everyday communication moments into seamless shopping experiences. The feature leverages high-attention moments during and after phone calls to reduce the purchase journey to just two steps. It is built on the company's proprietary adVantage intelligence platform and targets key advertiser categories such as FMCG, beauty, and fintech.

Security Forces on High Alert Ahead of Hotel Sultan Eviction, Sympathiser Crowds Emerge

Thousands of police and military personnel have been deployed around Hotel Sultan in Central Jakarta as authorities prepare to enforce a court-ordered eviction. The eviction stems from a land dispute between the government and PT Indobuildco. Hundreds of protesters have also gathered, carrying banners and chanting against what they call the seizure of indigenous-owned property.

IHSG Opens Lower Tracking Wall Street, Asia-Pacific Markets Mostly Gain

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened 1.09% lower on Thursday, mirroring overnight losses on Wall Street. Analysts expect sideways movement with a weakening bias, influenced by geopolitical developments and US-Iran negotiations. Most Asia-Pacific markets posted gains, led by South Korea's Kospi.

Investors Await MSCI Announcement, IHSG Opens with 1.21% Plunge

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened sharply lower on Thursday, falling 1.21% as investors braced for key macroeconomic decisions. Market attention is focused on Bank Indonesia's imminent interest rate decision and the upcoming MSCI Global Market Accessibility Review, which could trigger significant foreign capital flows and portfolio adjustments.

US Dollar Climbs to Rp17,840 as Rupiah Weakens

The Indonesian rupiah opened weaker at Rp17,840 per US dollar on Thursday, extending its depreciation amid a strengthening greenback globally. The dollar's rally followed the Federal Reserve's decision to hold rates steady while signalling potential hikes later this year due to heightened inflation concerns. Market attention now turns to Bank Indonesia's policy announcement, with a majority of analysts expecting a 25-basis-point rate increase to defend the currency.

Regional Transport Transformation: Brantas Abipraya Accelerates Bandung Basin Metropolitan BRT Development

State-owned construction firm PT Brantas Abipraya is advancing the development of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in the Bandung Metropolitan Basin. The project includes building dedicated corridors, halts, and revitalising pavements to deliver a modern, sustainable public transport solution. The company is conducting public consultations to explain construction traffic management and the long-term benefits of reduced congestion and emissions.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Confirms Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices Follow Market Rates

Pertamina Patra Niaga has confirmed that the pricing of its non-subsidised Pertamax series fuels, effective 10 June 2026, adheres to the government's market price formula. The adjustment reflects international market fluctuations while remaining more competitive than similar fuels in neighbouring ASEAN countries. Subsidised fuels like Pertalite and Biosolar remain unchanged by government decree.

Traffic Situation on Jakarta-Bound Toll Roads This Morning, Congestion at Cawang

Several toll roads heading into Jakarta experienced heavy traffic during the Thursday morning rush hour. Key congestion points included the Cililitan-Cawang section and the Cawang-Semanggi route, with additional delays reported on the Jakarta-Cikampek and Tangerang toll roads due to high vehicle volumes and roadworks.

IDX Closely Monitors RGAS Shares After Sharp Price Surge

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has placed PT Kian Santang Muliatama Tbk (RGAS) under close surveillance following an unusual market activity (UMA) triggered by a sharp, atypical increase in its share price. The stock surged 14% in a single day, 24% over the week, and 90% within a month. The IDX is currently scrutinising the transaction patterns and has advised investors to carefully review the company's disclosures, performance, and pending corporate actions before making investment decisions.

UGM Students Criticise Dialogue Held After Policies Are Already Made

Students from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) have criticised government officials for only opening dialogue after policies are implemented, rather than during their formulation. The criticism follows a protest at a discussion forum attended by ministers, which students labelled a disingenuous showcase of government achievements. They also voiced broader grievances over policies they claim harm the public, including budget cuts to education, food estate projects, and the weakening of the rupiah.

Traditional Games Festival Encourages Children to Reduce Gadget Dependency

A festival in Semarang, Central Java, used traditional Indonesian games to encourage children to reduce their reliance on digital devices. The event aimed to improve motor skills, foster sportsmanship and social interaction, while also preserving cultural heritage. Hundreds of students participated in activities such as tug-of-war and block racing.

KPK Investigates Former Minister's Aide Over Alleged $1 Million Flow to House Hajj Inquiry Committee

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is probing allegations that USD 1 million was channelled to the House of Representatives' Special Committee on the Hajj Inquiry. The investigation involves questioning a former special staff member of ex-Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The case is part of a broader corruption probe into the 2023-2024 hajj quota allocation, which has already seen several high-profile figures named as suspects.

Strait of Hormuz Reopens After US-Iran Peace Deal, Could Pertamax Prices in Indonesia Fall?

The peace agreement between the United States and Iran has led to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a sharp drop in global oil prices. Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has indicated that non-subsidised fuel prices, including Pertamax, are likely to be adjusted downwards if the decline in crude oil prices persists. Officials noted that the government had previously delayed price hikes to protect public purchasing power, but market dynamics now favour a potential reduction.

KPK Uncovers Widespread Extortion Scheme for Foreigner Stay Permits Across Immigration Offices

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that an extortion racket involving foreign nationals' stay permits is not isolated to a single office but is suspected to be widespread across multiple regional immigration offices. The findings stem from an earlier sting operation and involve high-ranking officials, including a former Director General of Immigration and a Deputy Minister. The KPK is urging victims to come forward as it deepens its investigation into the systematic corruption, which involves hundreds of billions of rupiah.