Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 18 June 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,644 articles

Youth Urged to Be Adaptive as AI and Digital Marketing Mastery Becomes Increasingly Crucial

The Batam City Youth and Sports Office has held a training programme emphasising the critical need for young people to master digital marketing and artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to equip the younger generation with the skills to build personal branding, seize new economic opportunities, and remain competitive in a rapidly transforming digital landscape. Officials stressed that combining technological proficiency with human creativity is key to developing a superior, adaptive workforce for the future digital economy.

Prabowo Urges State Banks to Move Beyond Profit, Become Engines of the People's Economy

President Prabowo Subianto has called on Indonesia's state-owned banks (Himbara) to prioritise their strategic role in strengthening the national economy over mere profit-seeking. With a combined market capitalisation of approximately Rp1,100 trillion, the banks are expected to expand financing access for MSMEs and corporations alike. The President also noted that falling global oil prices could provide a positive sentiment for Indonesia's economic stability.

De-dollarisation Gains Momentum: Putin Urges ASEAN to Shift to National Currencies

Russian President Vladimir Putin has called on Southeast Asian nations to expand the use of national currencies in bilateral trade to reduce reliance on the US dollar. The appeal was made during the Russia-ASEAN summit in Kazan, where leaders also agreed on a new energy cooperation roadmap and a comprehensive action plan for 2026-2030. The push aligns with Moscow's broader strategy to diversify international payment systems in response to Western sanctions.

DPR Reprimands Natalius Pigai Over Proposed Rp492.9 Billion Budget Increase

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has sharply criticised Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai for unexpectedly proposing an additional budget of Rp492.9 billion during a working meeting. Legislators argued the sudden request violated proper administrative procedures and demanded greater discipline in following the state budget cycle. The proposal has been put on hold pending the submission of comprehensive supporting documentation.

Support for Free Nutritious Meals Programme Swells as Mass Rally Held in Jakarta

Thousands rallied in Central Jakarta to voice support for President Prabowo's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, citing its tangible benefits for millions of schoolchildren and the creation of over 1.2 million jobs. The demonstrators also called for the strengthening of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) and urged the president to take a hard line against corruption to ensure state funds serve the people.

Prabowo Approves Rp 100 Trillion Budget for Sumatra Disaster Recovery

President Prabowo Subianto has approved a three-year budget of Rp 100.1 trillion for post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction across Sumatra. The funds will be disbursed through 23 primary and 10 supporting ministries and agencies, with the first tranche of Rp 38.9 trillion allocated for 2026. Regional governments have also received Rp 10.6 trillion in direct transfers to accelerate urgent infrastructure and public facility repairs.

OJK Selects New IDX Board of Directors, Focuses on Strengthening Governance and National Capital Market

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has nominated a new board of directors for the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2026-2030 term. The appointments, which include Jeffrey Hendrik as President Director, are aimed at ensuring continuity in governance and market development. The nominees will be presented for shareholder approval at the IDX's Annual General Meeting on 29 June 2026.

Many People Severely Addicted, Powerless Under AI's Colonisation

A Pew Research study reveals that nearly half of American adults now use AI chatbots, a sharp rise from 2024, with many integrating the technology into daily work and personal life. Despite this growing reliance, a significant majority express concerns about AI's negative societal impact, the pace of development, and the lack of effective government regulation. The findings highlight a paradox where users feel increasingly dependent on AI tools while simultaneously fearing their consequences.

Kuala Kampar Residents Urge Sustainable Maintenance of Canal Barriers to Prevent Forest Fires

Residents of Kuala Kampar in Riau have welcomed the government's construction of canal barriers to prevent peatland fires but are calling for ongoing maintenance and support. They fear the project may become a ceremonial gesture without dedicated personnel and resources for long-term operation. Environment Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat visited the site to inspect the infrastructure, which is designed to maintain water levels and reduce fire risk in the vulnerable peatland area.

House Deputy Speaker to Dialogue with Student Protesters at Parliament Tomorrow

Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has confirmed the House of Representatives will receive and engage in dialogue with student demonstrators planning a protest at the parliamentary complex on Friday. The students, led by Trisakti University's BEM alliance, are demanding economic recovery, the removal of incompetent officials, and the restoration of civilian supremacy. Their specific grievances include calls to lower fuel prices, halt state budget waste, and reject the newly passed Police Law.

Coordinating Ministry for Food Promotes Cattle-Palm Oil Integration System to Curb Imports

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Food is advancing the Cattle and Palm Oil Integration System (SISKA) to boost domestic animal protein production and reduce reliance on imports. The scheme utilises palm oil plantation waste as cattle feed, potentially cutting feed costs by 40% and adding up to 2.73 million cattle to the national herd. The initiative aims to address the projected 297,000-tonne beef import figure for 2026 while also diversifying farmer incomes.

BGN Suspends Free Nutritious Meals for Mothers and Toddlers During School Holidays

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has announced that the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) will be suspended for toddlers, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers during school holidays. The policy, outlined in Circular Letter No. 12/2026, also removes the daily incentive for meal providers and aims to standardise operational governance and improve resource efficiency. The suspension applies to all school breaks, national holidays, and weekends.

State Estimated to Save Rp3 Trillion as Free Nutritious Meals Paused During School Holidays

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) estimates budget savings exceeding Rp3 trillion by temporarily halting the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during the school holidays. The suspension also allows for a reassessment of beneficiaries, with 76 schools in Java identified as potentially self-sufficient. Funds will be redirected to more vulnerable groups, including those in underdeveloped regions, pregnant women, and toddlers.

Why Gibran Invited Students on a Working Visit to Monitor Free Nutritious Meals and Village Cooperatives

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka included five university students in an official trip to eastern Indonesia to oversee two flagship government programmes. The move is intended to demonstrate transparency and youth collaboration, but analysts have dismissed it as a political gimmick aimed at deflecting criticism from broader student movements.

Ahead of Cot Girek HGU Expiry, State-Owned PTPN IV Plantation Occupied and Looted

A state-owned palm oil plantation in Cot Girek, Aceh, operated by PTPN IV Regional 6, has been forcibly occupied and looted since September 2025 as its land use permit (HGU) nears expiration. The criminal actions have caused losses of over Rp 62.6 billion for the state and severely reduced the incomes of 2,400 workers and their families. Management is appealing for government intervention to restore security and normalise production.

KAMMI Central Board Affirms Legitimate Leadership Under Ahmad Jundi

The Indonesian Muslim Students Action Union (KAMMI) is experiencing internal turmoil, with 141 regional chapters uniting to reject the leadership claims of dismissed former cadre Amri Akbar. The regional leaders have declared Akbar's actions illegal and reaffirmed their sole recognition of Ahmad Jundi Khalifatullah as the legitimate chairman. The organisation has also urged government bodies and media not to engage with any faction operating outside the official leadership.

Famous Bali Temple Closes To Tourists For 5 Days

Bali's iconic Lempuyang Temple, known as the Gates of Heaven, will be closed to tourists for five days to accommodate thousands of pilgrims during the Galungan, Kuningan, and temple anniversary ceremonies. The closure, decided in coordination with local tour guides, aims to ensure the comfort and safety of worshippers. Tourists are advised to seek alternative attractions and expect increased traffic in the area until the temple reopens on Monday, 22nd June.

BMKG records 782 aftershocks as Sulawesi quake death toll hits three

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has recorded 782 aftershocks following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake that struck Central Sulawesi, as the confirmed death toll rises to three. The regional government has declared a week-long emergency status for Palu, Sigi, Parigi Moutong, and Poso, while local authorities establish relief posts to assist over 2,100 affected families. The disaster underscores the ongoing seismic risks in the region and the coordinated response between national agencies and local task forces.

Tiger Prawns: A Coastal Mainstay Commodity Penetrating the Global Market

East Kalimantan's tiger prawn exports reached 769.9 tonnes worth Rp173.3 billion in the first five months of 2026, accounting for over half the province's fishery export value. The commodity is prized internationally for its quality, with key markets including Japan, the United States, China, and Malaysia. A dedicated cargo flight from Balikpapan to Wenzhou, China, helps maintain the freshness and high value of these seafood products.

Bali Package Holiday Prices In Flux For Tourists As Dollar Exchange Rates Increase

Bali's tourism industry is grappling with the impact of a weakening rupiah against the US dollar, which makes packages cheaper for foreign tourists but squeezes operator margins due to dollar-denominated costs. ASITA Bali is urging the government to allow tour package prices to be displayed in US dollars, while transactions remain in rupiah, to help businesses manage exchange rate risks. The sector also faces rising operational costs, particularly for fuel, which could lead to higher prices for holidaymakers.

Former TaniHub Group CEO Sentenced to 9 Years for Corruption and Money Laundering

Ivan Arie Sustiawan, former CEO of TaniHub Group, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for corruption and money laundering involving Rp3.26 billion, causing total state losses of 25 million US dollars. The Jakarta Corruption Court also handed down a seven-year sentence to former finance director Edison Tobing for his role in the scheme. Both were fined Rp1 billion and ordered to pay restitution, with the judges citing their failure to support government anti-corruption efforts as an aggravating factor.

Rosan Reveals Prabowo's Directives to State-Owned Bank Commissioners and Directors at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto convened the commissioners and directors of Indonesia's state-owned banks (Himbara) at the Presidential Palace to issue strategic directives. He stressed that these banks must prioritise public benefit over profit, particularly by offering lower interest rates to small and medium enterprises (UMKM) than to large corporations. The meeting underscored the critical role of state banks as the 'lifeblood' of the national economy and instruments for equitable opportunity.

School Bus Driver Questioned After Accident Kills Student in South Jakarta

A female high school student in South Jakarta was killed after falling from her father's motorcycle and being struck by a school bus. The motorcycle reportedly snagged on a low-hanging cable crossing the road, causing the driver to lose control. Police are investigating the bus driver while local authorities have removed the hazardous cable.

Only Halfway Through the Year, Mataram's Abattoir Levy Reaches 75 Per Cent

Levy collections from the abattoir (RPH) and livestock market in Mataram have reached 75 per cent of the annual target by mid-2026. The local government is optimistic about exceeding the Rp 500 million target, having previously achieved up to 150 per cent in past years. This performance contributes to Mataram's broader locally generated revenue, which stood at 19.91 per cent of its annual goal by March.

Airlangga: Prabowo stresses Himbara's role in driving national economy

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the strategic role of the Association of State-Owned Banks (Himbara) in boosting the national economy, particularly through single-window exports and the management of export proceeds. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated the government expects Himbara to act optimally as a development agent. The President convened directors and commissioners of Himbara banks to outline government priorities and the future direction of Indonesia's economy.

Lenovo: Teachers Must Guide Students to Use AI Appropriately

Lenovo has emphasised the crucial role of teachers in ensuring artificial intelligence is used responsibly in education. The technology firm argues that educators must be equipped to guide students on using AI as a learning aid rather than a shortcut. This approach aims to prevent students from bypassing essential skill development by relying entirely on AI-generated answers.

Bakamla ready to build maritime monitoring station in Yogyakarta

Indonesia's Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) has announced plans to construct a new maritime monitoring station in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. The facility will feature over-the-horizon radar technology and integrate with Bakamla's national command centres. The initiative is part of a broader National Maritime Security System programme involving 35 stations nationwide.

Ambassador Kartini Appreciates Role of Tokyo Indonesian School

Indonesian Ambassador to Japan Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir has praised the Tokyo Indonesian School (SIT) for its role in supporting the education of Indonesian children abroad. The appreciation was conveyed during the school's graduation ceremony, where 47 students from kindergarten to high school were declared graduates. The school also reported growing enrolment and student achievements above national averages, reflecting increased community trust.

Foreign inflows into SRBI help stabilize rupiah: BI Governor

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo reported that foreign holdings of Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI) have reached Rp238.1 trillion, helping to stabilise the rupiah which strengthened to Rp17,730 per US dollar. The central bank has raised SRBI interest rates and intensified market interventions, including offering hedging incentives to foreign investors, to counter global uncertainty and rising corporate demand for foreign exchange. Warjiyo expressed confidence that the rupiah will continue to stabilise or strengthen, supported by attractive yields and Indonesia's positive economic outlook.

Home Affairs Ministry Pushes for SP2D Online to Strengthen Regional Transaction Digitalisation

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs is accelerating the implementation of the SP2D Online system to enhance the transparency and efficiency of regional financial governance. The initiative, discussed in a coordination meeting with the Financial Services Authority (OJK), Bank Indonesia, and regional development banks, aims to integrate digital fund disbursement into the broader Elektronifikasi Transaksi Pemerintah Daerah (ETPD) framework.

4 Ways to Check Motorcycle Tax

This article outlines methods for Indonesian motorcyclists to verify their vehicle tax obligations. It highlights the SIGNAL mobile application as the most convenient option, enabling both tax checks and payments directly from a smartphone.

BI says non-subsidised fuel price hike could contribute 0.25 percent to inflation

Bank Indonesia estimates the recent increase in non-subsidised fuel prices will add 0.25 percentage points to inflation, though it remains confident the overall rate will stay within the 1.5–3.5 percent target range. The central bank also flagged risks from global commodity prices and the dry season affecting volatile food costs. Coordinated efforts with regional inflation control teams are underway to manage food price stability.

West Jakarta KPKP sterilises hundreds of local male cats to curb population

The West Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Agency (KPKP) has sterilised 200 local male cats in Grogol Petamburan using a minimally invasive castration method. The initiative, conducted with police and cat lover communities, also included a trap-neuter-return programme for stray cats and free rabies consultations. The agency aims to sterilise 2,200 male cats across eight sub-districts by 2026 to prevent overpopulation and rabies transmission.

Jaga Desa app successfully reduces legal cases against village heads, says Jamintel

The Attorney General's Office for Intelligence reports that the Jaga Desa application has significantly reduced the number of village heads facing legal issues, from 525 cases last year to around 70 this year. The app integrates with village financial systems to enable transparent and accountable monitoring of budget use. The initiative also involves village consultative bodies and extends to overseeing other government programmes like the free nutritious meals scheme via QR code reporting.

Trenggalek Social Agency Adds Prospective Students to People's School Through Outreach Programme

The Social Agency of Trenggalek Regency is expanding recruitment for the Integrated People's School (SRT) by conducting outreach to underprivileged families. An eight-year-old boy from Pogalan district showed strong interest during a home visit, prompting officials to add him as a primary-level candidate. The agency is also coordinating with village authorities to update welfare data so the family can be reclassified as a priority recipient.

Sony Reveals 41 Major Figures to Investigators in MBG Corruption Case

Former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, has expanded his disclosure to prosecutors, naming 41 prominent individuals allegedly involved in the corruption scandal surrounding the free nutritious meal programme (MBG). The list grew from 26 to 41 after investigators uncovered chat evidence suggesting officials requested meal distribution points for their affiliates. The Attorney General's Office has already named five suspects in the case, which involves the procurement of goods at inflated prices.

Coordinating Minister for Political and Security Affairs Reactivates Forest and Land Fire Mitigation Desk

The Indonesian government has reactivated its Forest and Land Fire (Karhutla) Coordination Desk to bolster inter-agency coordination ahead of the El Niño phenomenon expected in 2026 and 2027. Coordinating Minister Djamari Chaniago emphasised the need for synergy between central and regional authorities, having identified six high-risk provinces. The move reverses a previous dissolution of the task force and aims to ensure a faster, more effective response through early detection systems and integrated patrols.

Diponegoro University Scientists Create Artificial Coral Reefs from Industrial Waste

Researchers at Diponegoro University (Undip) have developed an innovative artificial reef structure called the Artificial Fish Apartment (AFA) using recycled industrial waste. The technology has been selected for the national Lab2Market 2026 programme, aimed at accelerating the commercialisation of university research. The project promises ecological restoration benefits alongside lower production costs compared to imported alternatives, supporting Indonesia's blue economy goals.

BGN Removes 39,000 Students from Free Nutritious Meal Programme Recipient List, Here's Why

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has removed 76 schools and over 39,000 students in Java from the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, deeming them capable of meeting nutritional needs independently. The refocusing effort aims to redirect the budget towards children in greater need, including those in underdeveloped regions and priority groups such as pregnant women and toddlers. The agency is updating its data to ensure the programme is precisely targeted amid government efficiency measures.

Prabowo approves Rp100.1 trillion for Sumatra disaster recovery

President Prabowo has approved a three-year, Rp100.1 trillion budget for post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction in Sumatra, with disbursements phased through 2028. The funds will be distributed across 23 ministries and local governments in Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra to restore public infrastructure and housing. The initiative follows a disaster that claimed over 1,000 lives and aims to expedite recovery efforts already showing 97 percent completion of temporary housing.

South Kalimantan Police Uncover 128 Kilograms of Methamphetamine from Fredy Pratama Network

South Kalimantan Police have seized 128 kilograms of methamphetamine linked to the international drug lord Fredy Pratama, arresting five suspects in a series of raids. The operation, described as the largest bust in six years, prevented the drugs from reaching an estimated 600,000 potential users. Both the police chief and the provincial parliament speaker have pledged special awards for the narcotics team responsible.

Davina Karamoy questioned as witness in Hanania fraud case

Actress Davina Karamoy has been questioned by Jakarta police as a witness in the alleged fraud case involving umrah travel agency Hanania Group. Her lawyer stated she cooperated fully, answering around 30 questions about her role as a paid endorser for the company. Davina said the experience taught her to be more selective in future business collaborations.

Tangerang Metro Police Dismantle Illegal Pharmaceutical Network

Police in Tangerang City have uncovered an illegal network distributing hard drugs, arresting two suspects after a routine traffic stop. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat the illicit pharmaceutical trade, which authorities say poses a serious threat to public health, particularly among young people.

House Deputy Speaker Dasco: DPR Leadership to Meet Student Protesters Tomorrow

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has confirmed that a planned student demonstration at the parliament building on Friday is lawful and that the leadership intends to hold an audience with the protesters. The rally, organised by various student executive bodies from Trisakti University, will demand economic and political recovery, the removal of incompetent officials, and the restoration of civilian supremacy. This action is part of a broader wave of student and civil society protests triggered by the weakening rupiah and rising living costs.

Creative Content and Diversity Tours: A New Way to Shape Youth Character

Universitas Pancasila and Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission X are pioneering a creative, experience-based approach to instil Pancasila values in Generation Z. The initiative moves beyond traditional lectures, using interfaith visits and digital content creation to foster tolerance. The programme aims to equip young Indonesians with a strong national identity while navigating global digital culture.

Baznas Partners with KSMI to Develop Youth and Empower Mustahik

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indonesian Mini Football Committee (KSMI) to use mini football as a tool for character education and community empowerment. The collaboration will include national tournaments, educational aid for the underprivileged, and the establishment of Zakat Collection Units within football organisations. The initiative aims to identify and support talented young athletes from mustahik families through scholarships and coaching.

Sahroni: Cabinet Secretary Teddy a Proactive Official with High Performance

NasDem Party treasurer Ahmad Sahroni has praised Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya as a 'government anchor' who ensures the president's programmes run smoothly. Sahroni stated that Teddy's proactive approach in clarifying public misinformation is part of his responsibility and that his performance is admirable. He also suggested that negative comments directed at Teddy are to be expected given his high level of initiative.

Tens of Trillions of Rupiah for Law Enforcement Must Be Felt by the People Through Performance and Service

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has stressed that proposed budget increases for law enforcement agencies, totalling tens of trillions of rupiah, must deliver tangible benefits to the public. The additional funds requested by the National Police, PPATK, KPK, and BNN for 2027 should translate into improved services, reduced crime rates, and greater transparency. The legislator emphasised that public accountability and measurable outcomes, not just spending figures, are the key benchmarks for approving the budgets.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister urges regional synergy to tackle forest fires and El Niño threat

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has called for strengthened inter-regional cooperation to control forest and land fires ahead of the potential 2026-2027 El Niño phenomenon. He stressed that disaster impacts often cross administrative borders, making integrated prevention and response essential. The ministry is promoting regional collaboration schemes and capacity building for local agencies to enhance preparedness.

Actress Davina Karamoy Admits Receiving Allowance from Hanania Travel in Umrah Fraud Case

Actress Davina Karamoy has testified that she received a travel allowance from PT Khazanah Tamma Internasional, the company at the centre of an alleged Umrah fraud case, but stated the money has been returned. Her lawyer clarified she was contracted only to share daily stories of her pilgrimage, not to promote the business, and denied any investment in the company. The case involves the director of Hanania Travel, who has been named a suspect for allegedly misusing prospective pilgrims' funds, including payments to influencers.