Archive: 18 June 2026
Showing 1,601-1,644 of 1,644 articles
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 05:00 WIB
India wants to turn more coal into gas for energy security. It faces a tough conversion
India has approved a US$3.9 billion scheme to convert its vast coal reserves into synthetic gas, aiming to reduce its heavy reliance on imported fuels amid geopolitical supply disruptions. However, experts warn the effort faces significant hurdles, including the high ash content of Indian coal, water-intensive processes, and financing challenges. The move mirrors similar coal gasification pushes in China and Indonesia as Asian economies seek greater energy resilience.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 05:00 WIB
Southeast Asia’s OECD hopefuls: Why Thailand and Indonesia are chasing entry to ‘rich countries’ club’
Thailand and Indonesia are pursuing membership in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to lock in domestic reforms, enhance credibility, and attract foreign investment. Experts note that the accession process serves as a catalyst for modernising regulations, governance, and public services, while also creating competitive pressure between the two largest Southeast Asian economies. Both nations view OECD alignment as a strategic tool to navigate global uncertainty and escape the middle-income trap.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:59 WIB
Dinas Tenaga Kerja dan Transmigrasi Konawe Disorot, 3 Surat Serikat Pekerja Belum Ditanggapi
The Labour and Transmigration Office in Konawe Regency faces criticism after a trade union reported sending three official letters requesting a copy of a collective labour agreement without receiving any response. The lack of reply is seen as hindering administrative resolution and creating uncertainty for workers, potentially violating Indonesia's Public Service Law. The union urges the office to improve its administrative procedures and ensure timely responses to all submissions.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:58 WIB
Gambir Station Set for Renovation, Will Serve Commuter Line Passengers
The Indonesian government has announced plans to renovate Gambir Station in Jakarta, enabling it to serve both long-distance trains and KRL commuter line passengers. The project, funded by PT KAI, is expected to be completed within two years and aims to improve intermodal integration without causing overcrowding. The renovation is part of a broader national railway development push that also includes closing hundreds of level crossings to enhance safety.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:30 WIB
Auspicious Day on Sweet Thursday Galungan, 18 June 2026, Ideal for Starting a Business
According to the Balinese calendar, Thursday, 18 June 2026, which coincides with Manis Galungan, is considered an auspicious day for initiating business ventures and seeking livelihood. The traditional ala ayuning dewasa calculations highlight several favourable indicators, including Amertayoga and Sedana Yoga, for commencing trade. However, the calendar also notes certain inauspicious elements for activities like borrowing money or holding meetings.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:23 WIB
Massive Buybacks Fail to Spark Rally as Stock Market Remains Sluggish
A wave of share buyback programmes by major Indonesian companies, including Telkom Indonesia, GoTo, and Bank Rakyat Indonesia, has yet to reverse the decline in the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) since the start of 2026. Telkom Indonesia secured shareholder approval for a buyback worth up to Rp4 trillion during its annual general meeting. The market remains unresponsive despite these corporate efforts to shore up share prices.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:22 WIB
PB WI Enhances Wushu Referee and Judge Quality Ahead of 2026 Asian Games
The Indonesian Wushu Executive Board (PB WI) is intensifying training for referees and judges as the country prepares to send four officials to the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. The initiative, supported by the International Wushu Federation (IWUF), involved a national workshop led by experts from China. The programme also focuses on transitioning former athletes, such as Edgar Xavier Marvelo, into officiating roles to sustain the sport's development.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:19 WIB
Elitery Reveals Reason for Withholding Dividends, Focuses on Expanding AI and Cybersecurity Business
PT Data Sinergitama Jaya Tbk (Elitery) has opted to retain its 2025 profits instead of paying dividends, channelling funds into AI, cybersecurity, and international expansion. The decision, approved at the company's annual general meeting, aims to strengthen its cash buffer amid global uncertainty and support long-term growth. The firm is expanding into Malaysia and targeting further growth across Asia and Europe, bolstered by its Google Cloud and AWS certifications.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:15 WIB
KontraS Urges Police to Examine Former TNI Strategic Intelligence Chief in Andrie Yunus Acid Attack Case
Human rights group KontraS has called on Jakarta police to investigate the former head of the Indonesian military's Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS) over an acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus. The demand comes as KontraS's coordinator is questioned by police following a court order to resume the stalled investigation. Four active BAIS members have already been convicted in a military court for the attack.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:10 WIB
Fed Holds Rates Steady, Signals Stronger Likelihood of Hike This Year
The US Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 3.50-3.75% but signalled a growing inclination to raise rates later this year amid persistent inflation above its 2% target. The central bank, under new Chair Kevin Warsh, also scrapped its forward guidance and announced a review of its communication strategy. Projections from Fed officials now show a median forecast for a rate increase by year-end.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:04 WIB
Woman in Bandung Allegedly Held Captive and Tortured by Boyfriend for 3 Years in Boarding House
A 29-year-old woman from Bandung, missing for over three years, was found with severe injuries at a local hospital after allegedly being held captive and repeatedly tortured by her boyfriend. The victim, identified as YTT, sustained head, face, and leg injuries affecting her vision, speech, and ability to walk. Police are investigating the case after the family filed a report with the West Java Regional Police.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 04:00 WIB
Tempe One Step Away from Becoming UNESCO World Cultural Heritage
Indonesia is awaiting UNESCO's designation of tempe culture as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, targeted for late 2026. The government officially submitted the nomination in March 2025, highlighting tempe as a reflection of local wisdom, sustainable resource management, and traditional fermentation biotechnology. Stakeholders are using the National Tempe Day celebrations to rally support, with hopes that global recognition will boost cultural diplomacy and economic growth through exports.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 03:45 WIB
Constitutional Court Grants Withdrawal of Petition Seeking to Place National Police Under Home Affairs Ministry
Indonesia's Constitutional Court has granted the withdrawal of a judicial review petition that sought to place the National Police (Polri) under the Ministry of Home Affairs instead of directly under the President. The petitioners decided to retract their case after receiving recommendations from a Police Reform Acceleration Team, which included prominent constitutional law experts. The team advised that Polri would be more independent if it remained under presidential authority.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 03:30 WIB
Getting to Know Green School Bali: An Ecology-Based School in Badung
Green School Bali, founded in 2008 in Badung, offers a unique ecology-based curriculum focused on sustainability and experiential learning. The school has grown from 90 to over 500 students and operates under the Kul Kul Foundation with officially recognised diplomas. Annual fees for high school can reach Rp 300 million, while short courses start from Rp 2.7 million.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 03:13 WIB
TNI Chief of General Staff Leads Handover, Air Vice-Marshal Muzafar Officially Becomes Pangkogabwilhan II
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) conducted a leadership handover for two key strategic positions at its headquarters in East Jakarta. Air Vice-Marshal Muzafar assumed command of the Joint Regional Defence Command II (Pangkogabwilhan II), receiving a promotion to three-star rank. The ceremony underscores the TNI's commitment to leadership regeneration to maintain operational readiness and national sovereignty.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 03:07 WIB
KPK Questions PT PP Employee in PPT Energy Trading Investment Corruption Case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned an employee of state-owned construction firm PT PP as a witness in an investigation into alleged corrupt investment management at joint venture PPT Energy Trading. The probe covers the period 2015–2022 and involves long-term capital and loan management, with the KPK also linking the case to suspected LNG procurement corruption at Pertamina. Three individuals have been placed on a travel ban, and suspects have been named but not yet publicly identified.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 03:04 WIB
US Reveals Draft MoU for Peace with Iran, Totalling 14 Articles
A senior US official has disclosed a draft Memorandum of Understanding outlining a 14-point peace agreement with Iran. The proposed deal includes an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations, the lifting of US sanctions and naval blockades, and a commitment by Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons. The framework also envisions a USD 300 billion reconstruction plan for Iran and the establishment of a mechanism to monitor implementation.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 02:18 WIB
Pharmaceutical Industry and BPOM Synergy Strengthens Sustainability Agenda
Indonesian pharmaceutical company PT Pyridam Farma Tbk (PYFA) has reinforced its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles through a tree-planting initiative at its newly expanded facility in Cikarang. The event, attended by the head of the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM), symbolises a growing synergy between the regulator and the industry to promote a greener pharmaceutical ecosystem. The company is integrating sustainability across its operations, including mangrove restoration and energy-efficient international facilities, aligning business growth with the national net-zero emissions target.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 02:01 WIB
Female Parking Attendant in Brebes Shares Rp100,000 Reward, Foils Rp3.6 Billion Theft
A 65-year-old female parking attendant in Brebes, Central Java, thwarted the theft of Rp3.6 billion from a parked vehicle and received a Rp100,000 reward from the grateful owner. She subsequently divided the money equally among three colleagues, demonstrating a strong sense of community solidarity. The incident highlights the role of ordinary citizens in preventing major crime.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 01:53 WIB
Researchers say climate change increases economic pressure on vulnerable groups
A collaborative research programme involving Indonesian and Australian institutions has found that climate change is intensifying economic hardship for vulnerable populations, particularly women, the disabled, and the elderly. Declining fish catches and crop yields are reducing household incomes, forcing some to turn to loan sharks due to limited access to formal credit. The researchers have submitted policy recommendations to local governments and developed a community guide to support adaptation.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 01:44 WIB
Indonesia Calls for Investment Delivering Jobs and Sustainable Growth
Indonesian lawmakers have stressed that incoming investment must deliver tangible benefits such as job creation and regional development, not just capital inflows. The call was made during parliamentary discussions on the Investment and Downstreaming Ministry's 2027 budget, with officials emphasising the need for high-quality, sustainable projects that strengthen local economies and avoid purely extractive practices. Adequate funding for the ministry was supported to ensure stronger governance and long-term economic resilience.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 01:31 WIB
Observer Calls NIB-KBLI Requirement for Foreign OTAs a Policy Innovation
A public policy expert has praised the Indonesian government's requirement for foreign online travel agents to obtain business identification numbers as an innovative regulatory step. The move aims to level the playing field between domestic and international platforms, which have long profited from the Indonesian market without full legal compliance. The government is also coordinating with platforms to delist unlicensed accommodations.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 01:26 WIB
Corporate Demand for Electric Vehicle Fleets Continues to Rise
Indonesian corporations are increasingly seeking sustainable mobility solutions as they integrate ESG principles into their operations. This trend is driving transport providers like MPMRent to expand their electric vehicle fleets, evidenced by a new partnership with Wuling Motors for 50 BinguoEV Lite units. The collaboration aims to support corporate clients' sustainability targets while advancing Indonesia's green transport ecosystem.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 01:12 WIB
Trump: Peace Deal with Iran to Be Signed Thursday or Friday
President Donald Trump announced that a peace agreement with Iran aimed at ending Middle East conflict will be signed imminently, possibly Thursday or Friday in Switzerland. He warned Iran of severe military retaliation if the deal is violated, while also joking about delegating the signing to Vice President JD Vance to deflect potential blame.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 01:01 WIB
BP BUMN says Pelindo profit up 94 percent after business transformation
State-owned port operator Pelindo reported a 94 percent surge in year-to-date profit to Rp2.01 trillion as of May 2026, driven by governance reforms and a new business model. The head of BP BUMN and Danantara COO Dony Oskaria said the improved performance reflects greater operational effectiveness and supports Pelindo's role as the backbone of national logistics connectivity. The company is developing a hybrid regional and business-line corporate model to better integrate services and adapt to market needs.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 01:00 WIB
Indonesian Police Explore Establishing Public Police University
The Indonesian National Police (Polri) is studying the creation of a Police University that would be open to the general public, aiming to broaden access to security and policing sciences. The proposed institution would replace the current Police Science College (STIK) and is part of a strategy to adapt to future human resource needs. The initiative, first declared by the National Police Chief three years ago, seeks to make policing knowledge more inclusive and invite wider societal contribution.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:56 WIB
Padang Partners with Kirana Polytechnic to Produce Job-Ready Aviation Talent
The Padang city government has partnered with Politeknik Kirana to provide 40 scholarships for local youth to study aviation, with guaranteed employment at Lion Group upon graduation. The city will also cover living costs for the students, as part of a broader commitment to fund 300 scholarships annually.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:54 WIB
IHSG Awaits MSCI Review Signal, Strategies to Secure Portfolio Gains
The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) faces a critical juncture ahead of MSCI's Global Market Accessibility Review on 18 June 2026, which will determine Indonesia's emerging market status. The subsequent Annual Market Classification Review on 23 June 2026 is also expected to influence the trajectory of the stock market recovery. Investors are seeking strategies to protect their portfolios amid this structural uncertainty.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:52 WIB
Sinemart tests its mettle on the big screen with film 'Foufo'
Indonesian television giant Sinemart is venturing into cinema with the animated film 'Foufo', acknowledging it is a newcomer to the industry. The company has partnered with experienced creative studio Skak Studios to mitigate risk and is prioritising mature story development over the rapid production pace of TV. The film, set for release on 9 July, tackles themes of financial hardship and family duty, aiming to draw Sinemart's loyal television audience into cinemas.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:49 WIB
PKB Instructs Cadres to Open Dialogue with Students on Free Nutritious Meals and Village Cooperatives
The National Awakening Party (PKB) has directed its regional branches to engage university students in discussions about President Prabowo's flagship programmes, including Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (KDMP). Deputy Chairman Faisol Riza acknowledged that the substance of these food security and economic empowerment policies has not been evenly communicated to the student community over the past year and a half. He also conceded that governance and technical shortcomings exist, citing the recent detention of the National Nutrition Agency head as proof the government is addressing legal violations.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:47 WIB
Consolidation of state-owned insurance firms targeted for completion in 2026
Indonesia's state-owned enterprise ministry and Danantara aim to finalise the merger of state insurance companies under IFG by 2026. The consolidation seeks to create a healthier, more efficient, and competitive insurance ecosystem. The move is expected to strengthen underwriting capacity, operational efficiency, and support national economic development.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:46 WIB
Sovereignty seen as potential challenge to AI adoption in ASEAN
Singapore's Digital Development Minister Josephine Teo has cautioned that narrow views of AI sovereignty as a mere technology race could hinder adoption across ASEAN. She argued for a more realistic approach focused on leveraging AI for public good, maintaining strategic autonomy, and strengthening local digital ecosystems. Teo highlighted ASEAN's strength in collaborative diversity amid rapid regional infrastructure growth.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:39 WIB
AtlasGo and Sun Motor Mitsubishi Open New Chapter in AI-Based Sales
Indonesian tech company AtlasGo has launched its AI-powered sales intelligence platform, DealerView, in partnership with Sun Motor Mitsubishi. The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between marketing spend and measurable sales outcomes in the automotive industry. AtlasGo plans to expand its AI solutions across multiple sectors to enhance sales team productivity.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:38 WIB
Forestry Minister Launches 'Jaga Rimba', a Digital System to Prevent Overlapping Permits
Indonesia's Forestry Minister has launched a new digital Decision Support System called 'Jaga Rimba' to integrate forest governance and curb overlapping permits. The platform consolidates geospatial data across directorates and features an early warning system for permit conflicts and forest fire hotspots. The initiative aims to resolve long-standing social and business conflicts while supporting a unified One Map Policy for the nation's forests.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:33 WIB
Imipas Minister Proposes Additional Rp 5.23 Trillion for Personnel and Non-Operational Spending
Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto has requested a supplementary budget of Rp 5.23 trillion for the 2027 fiscal year during a late-night working meeting with House Commission XIII. The minister argued that the indicative ceiling of over Rp 20 trillion still falls short of covering essential institutional strengthening, new Criminal Code implementation, and border security needs. The proposed top-up, agreed in a tripartite meeting with Bappenas and the Finance Ministry, primarily targets personnel costs, operational expenses, and capital expenditure.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:29 WIB
KPK Assesses Corruption in Public Services Often Begins with Minor Infractions
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has warned that major corruption in public services frequently originates from seemingly trivial misconduct that is allowed to persist. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto highlighted how a mindset not oriented towards public service, combined with cultural tolerance for small gratuities, creates a slippery slope towards larger graft. The commission is currently investigating a case involving alleged extortion in immigration services, which has ensnared a former minister.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:24 WIB
Woman in Bandung Allegedly Held Captive for Three Years, Tortured to Severe Injury
Police in West Java are investigating a case in which a 29-year-old woman was allegedly kidnapped, held captive, and repeatedly tortured by a man over a period of three years in Bandung Regency. The victim was discovered by her family at Hasan Sadikin Hospital with severe injuries, including impaired vision, a cleft lip, and an inability to walk. Authorities have identified a suspect with the initials TH and are probing the alleged physical abuse and theft of the victim's valuables.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:16 WIB
Minister Proposes Rp392 Billion Budget Increase for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry in 2027
The Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has requested an additional Rp392 billion for the ministry's 2027 budget, raising the total from an initial Rp136.29 billion. The funds are earmarked for strengthening gender equality programmes, child rights fulfilment, and expanding protection services, including a significant boost to the Special Allocation Fund for regional women's and child protection units. The minister stressed that without the increase, key mandates such as tackling violence and enhancing digital child safety could not be optimally executed.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:11 WIB
Disabled Palm Oil Worker in North Sumatra Allegedly Sexually Assaulted, Case Reported to Komnas HAM
Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) is investigating allegations of sexual violence against a deaf and mute female daily worker at a palm oil company in North Sumatra. The commission has raised concerns over delayed justice, lack of protection, and the victim's dismissal after reporting the incident. Komnas HAM plans to summon the police, the company, and other relevant parties to ensure the victim's rights are upheld under the law.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:10 WIB
Deputy Minister warns deepfake technology heightens digital fraud threats
Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Nezar Patria, has cautioned that the misuse of AI-driven deepfake technology is escalating digital fraud risks. He highlighted that synthetic reality makes it increasingly difficult to distinguish fake content from genuine material, leaving the public vulnerable. Patria urged developers to embed ethical principles like transparency and accountability into AI design from the outset.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:10 WIB
TNI Leadership Rotates: New Dansesko and Pangkogabwilhan II Appointed, Panglima TNI Emphasises Regeneration
The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has officially rotated two senior leadership positions, appointing new commanders for the Staff and Command School (Sesko) and Joint Regional Defence Command II. The handover ceremony, led by the Chief of General Staff on behalf of Panglima TNI General Agus Subiyanto, was described as a critical part of leadership regeneration. The Panglima stressed that such rotations are essential for maintaining operational readiness and safeguarding national sovereignty amid evolving strategic dynamics.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:05 WIB
Sony Sonjaya Examined Today, Attorney General's Office Probes Justice Collaborator Request
The Attorney General's Office is examining former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, today as it assesses his application for justice collaborator status in the alleged corruption case surrounding the Free Nutritious Meals programme. Investigators are evaluating the extent to which his testimony could help uncover other suspected parties involved. A decision on his JC status is pending, with the office indicating the assessment process is ongoing.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:03 WIB
Central Java and Yogyakarta NU Branches Back Lirboyo Muktamar, Reject AHWA Restrictions
Regional boards of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) from Central Java and Yogyakarta have unanimously declared their support for holding the 35th NU Congress at the Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School in Kediri. The joint declaration, made during a strategic meeting in Magelang, also explicitly rejects any restrictions on the Ahlul Halli wal Aqdi (AHWA) mechanism. The meeting was attended by PBNU Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf and other senior NU figures.
Thu, 18 Jun 2026, 00:02 WIB
Bandung Wedding Organiser Scams Hundreds of Brides and Vendors, Owner Still at Large
A wedding organiser in Bandung, West Java, is under police investigation for allegedly defrauding hundreds of prospective brides and grooms as well as multiple vendors. The suspect, identified as SCR, collected full payments from clients but failed to pay the vendors, forcing couples to cover costs themselves to proceed with their weddings. The organiser has since disappeared and remains a fugitive.