Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

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Economist: Indonesia Has Great Potential to Capture Global Industrial Relocation

An economist from Indef argues that Indonesia has a significant opportunity to attract investment from global industrial relocation amid supply chain diversification. To compete with regional peers like Vietnam and Thailand, the government must strengthen legal certainty, regulatory harmony, infrastructure, and human resources. The country's position as a critical mineral producer also supports its role in the green economy transition.

Attorney General Floats Merger of General and Special Crimes Units

Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin has proposed merging the Deputy Attorney General for General Crimes (Jampidum) and the Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) into a single operations division. He argued the current separation creates inefficiencies and complicates the implementation of the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. The proposal remains a discussion point pending expert input, while Burhanuddin also highlighted the new code's shift towards restorative justice.

Anies Baswedan Beberkan Alasan Sistem Perizinan DKI Lebih Ketat Dibanding OSS Soal ...

Former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan has publicly criticised Indonesia’s national Online Single Submission (OSS) licensing system, demonstrating how it can automatically approve a hazardous waste processing permit even for a ministerial office address. He contrasted this with the digital spatial planning system implemented during his tenure in Jakarta, which instantly rejects applications that violate zoning regulations. Anies argued that digital governance must prioritise spatial intelligence and legal compliance over mere transactional speed to prevent future ecological and planning disasters.

Body of Indonesian murder victim in Malaysia repatriated to Aceh

The remains of Putri Hensy Aprilda, a 22-year-old Indonesian migrant worker murdered in Selangor, Malaysia, have been returned to her home village in Aceh Tamiang. The repatriation was coordinated by the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, local government, and community groups, with the victim's infant also reportedly killed and buried in Malaysia. Senator Sudirman Haji Uma, who assisted the family, reiterated calls for Indonesians to use official channels when seeking work abroad to ensure legal protection.

Dedi Mulyadi Urges Regional Heads to Be Bold in Spatial Planning to Attract Tourists

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has called on district and city leaders to show courage in organising their regions, emphasising that orderly and aesthetically pleasing environments are key to boosting tourism. He highlighted the crucial role of Satpol PP enforcement units, whose effectiveness he believes depends on the boldness of their leadership. Dedi argued that well-planned public spaces can increase local revenue by stimulating the tourism, hotel, and restaurant sectors.

Sidoarjo Education Office Denies Claims of Thousands of Lost State Junior High School Seats in New Student Selection

The Sidoarjo Education Office has refuted viral social media claims that thousands of state junior high school seats disappeared during the new student selection process. Officials confirmed that all quotas were allocated transparently according to regulations and that the online system ensures public accountability. The local government also urged content creators to verify information before disseminating it to prevent public anxiety.

Bogor City Government to Revamp Northern Gateway in Cimahpar Following Street Vendor Clearance

The Bogor City administration is proceeding with the beautification of the Cimahpar area, its northern border gateway, after relocating illegal street vendors. The project includes drainage improvements and park construction, aiming to enhance the city's entrance from Sukaraja and Sentul.

Gowa Regent Rejects Special Committee Inquiry, Citing Privacy Violations

Gowa Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang has publicly rejected the direction of a DPRD special committee inquiry, arguing it has strayed into her personal life and away from public policy. She also questioned the legality of a journalist being called as a witness, citing the Press Law. The regent affirmed her readiness to pursue legal action to defend her character while ensuring local governance continues uninterrupted.

Temporary Closure of Free Meal Kitchens: BGN Advised to Involve Local Governments and Partners

A public policy analyst has urged the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to involve local governments and field partners before enforcing a temporary nationwide closure of free meal programme kitchens during school holidays. The analyst argues that nutritional needs for children, toddlers, and pregnant women do not cease during holidays, and that a blanket shutdown policy fails to account for diverse regional conditions. Instead, the evaluation period should be used to upgrade compliant kitchens to higher food safety and quality standards.

Four IPB Professors Propose Innovations for Sustainable Biological Resource Management

Four professors from IPB University have presented scientific innovations aimed at sustainable management of Indonesia's biological resources. Their proposals cover the palm oil sector, blue economy opportunities from fisheries by-products, hormonal technology for aquaculture, and the critical role of forest environmental services in addressing the triple planetary crisis.

BP3MI Records High Enthusiasm at Job Fair for Overseas Employment

The Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection Agency (BP3MI) in Jakarta reported strong public interest in overseas job opportunities, particularly in Japan, during a recent job fair. The demand is driven by Japan's ageing population and domestic job market challenges, with many attendees seeking positions in caregiving and agriculture. Officials emphasised the importance of using legal migration pathways to ensure worker protection.

Dedi Mulyadi urges regional heads to be bold in urban planning

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has called on regional leaders to show courage in urban planning to boost cleanliness, order, and aesthetics. He emphasised that a leader's resolve directly influences enforcement units like the Satpol PP. Mulyadi argued that well-organised cities can enhance tourism and increase local revenue.

Observer proposes biometric SIM registration also apply to existing numbers

Telecommunications observer Heru Sutadi has urged the Indonesian government to extend biometric SIM card registration to existing mobile numbers, not just new ones. He warns that millions of old numbers registered under outdated systems create identity fraud risks, including scams via messaging apps. The Communications Ministry is currently focusing biometric rules on new registrations while evaluating infrastructure readiness for a broader rollout.

Psychiatrist: Narcissistic Personality Disorder Can Lead to Depression

A psychiatrist from Indonesia's Soeharto Heerdjan Hospital warns that Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) can lead to depression and substance abuse due to unstable relationships and a lack of a supportive environment. Sufferers typically seek help only when secondary conditions like depression emerge, as they often feel comfortable with their primary disorder. A non-judgemental approach from close, stable individuals is crucial to guiding them towards professional treatment.

Surabaya Immigration Deports 8 Chinese Nationals for Illegal Work

The Surabaya Immigration Office has deported eight Chinese nationals caught working illegally on a restaurant renovation project in Pakuwon Mall. The individuals were found performing technical tasks such as electrical and plumbing work, violating the terms of their residence permits. Authorities emphasised that while Indonesia welcomes foreign investment, strict compliance with immigration and labour laws is non-negotiable.

South Sumatra Farmer Attacked by Bear While Gardening, Suffers Waist and Thigh Injuries

A farmer in Musi Rawas, South Sumatra, was attacked by a bear while spraying his plantation, sustaining serious lacerations to his waist and thigh. The incident occurred in a remote area far from residential settlements. Police have visited the scene and are investigating the presence of the wild animal.

Four Ways to Attain True Piety According to Former Grand Mufti of Egypt

Former Grand Mufti of Egypt, Sheikh Ali Jum'ah, has outlined four methods for believers to build their lives on a foundation of genuine piety. He emphasised that a person grounded in God-consciousness remains steadfast amidst trials and blessings, avoiding extremes of despair or excessive joy. The guidance focuses on achieving spiritual balance when facing life's fluctuating circumstances.

Millions of Illegal Cigarettes Worth Rp13 Billion Destroyed in Sidoarjo

Authorities in East Java have destroyed over nine million illegal cigarettes seized from operations across Sidoarjo, Surabaya, and Mojokerto. The destroyed goods were valued at Rp13.05 billion, representing a potential state revenue loss of Rp8.8 billion. The destruction was carried out jointly by the Customs and Excise Office and the Civil Service Police Unit.

Deputy Minister: Digitalisation key to attracting young generation to cooperatives

Deputy Minister of Cooperatives Farida Farichah has urged cooperatives to embrace digitalisation to improve governance and appeal to younger members. She noted that nearly 60 percent of Indonesia's population is young and demands effective, transparent services. The government is also promoting village cooperatives as part of a broader push to strengthen the people's economy.

Copper-Based Drug Could Open New Path for Alzheimer's Therapy

Laboratory studies suggest a copper-based compound, Cu(ATSM), may reduce toxic protein levels in the brain and improve memory function. Researchers at Monash University found the drug enhanced the brain's natural waste clearance system by boosting P-glycoprotein pump activity. While promising, the findings remain preclinical and require human trials to confirm clinical benefits.

South Sulawesi Local Products Poised to Enter 13 Countries via IGS B2B Forum

Local products from South Sulawesi have the opportunity to penetrate international markets through the Business to Business forum at the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series 2026 in Makassar. Thirteen countries, including the Philippines, the Netherlands, and Mexico, expressed interest in the region's commodities. The event facilitated direct business matching between local producers and international buyers, with coffee and chocolate identified as the most sought-after products.

Banyumas Police Urge Victims of Pensioner Fraud to Report Immediately

Police in Banyumas are urging victims of an alleged pension fraud scheme involving a former Bank Mandiri Taspen employee to come forward, with 25 victims already reporting losses totalling around Rp5 billion. The total loss is estimated at Rp25 billion, potentially affecting over 100 people. Authorities are tracing assets and coordinating with the National Land Agency and the financial intelligence unit to uncover further suspects and illicit fund flows.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Hospitalised, KPK Suspends Detention

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has temporarily suspended the detention of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas due to illness. Yaqut, a suspect in a hajj quota corruption case involving potential state losses of Rp622 billion, is receiving treatment for a digestive ailment at the Police Hospital in Kramat Jati. The KPK stated the suspension ensures the suspect's basic rights while investigators continue to monitor his health and the progress of the case.

Fadli Zon Highlights Soeharto's Leadership Character

Culture Minister Fadli Zon has outlined key leadership traits of former President Soeharto during a commemoration of his 105th birthday, presenting them as a source of learning for future generations. He emphasised Soeharto's reliance on societal realities, respect for knowledge, effective systems, and accountability. Zon also stressed the enduring relevance of Indonesian cultural values such as patience and national orientation in tackling contemporary development challenges.

28 Friendly Nations Attend IGS Business Forum in Makassar, Munafri Offers Untia Stadium Investment

Makassar hosted 41 delegates from 28 countries at the Indonesia Gastronodiplomacy Series business forum, aiming to match local projects with international investors. Mayor Munafri Arifuddin pitched the Untia Stadium project as a sport tourism hub designed to drive economic growth in eastern Indonesia. The proposed development, situated on 23 hectares, is intended to include commercial and public facilities alongside a new home for PSM Makassar football club.

Kupang Mayor Prioritises Rp 66.6 Billion Budget Surplus for Infrastructure

Kupang Mayor Christian Widodo has pledged to allocate the city's Rp 66.6 billion budget surplus (Silpa) from the 2025 fiscal year towards basic infrastructure and social programmes. The commitment was made in response to critical feedback from four factions in the Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), who questioned the accumulation of unspent funds. Widodo attributed the surplus to efficiency savings, tied central government grants, and procurement delays, promising tighter oversight and more realistic future planning.

PLN Watch: Blackouts Should Spur Strengthening of Electricity Reliability

PLN Watch chairman KRT Tohom Purba has stated that recent blackouts in parts of Java should serve as a catalyst for a comprehensive audit of the electricity system. He emphasised the need to evaluate the entire supply chain and infrastructure to minimise future disruptions and improve service quality. Tohom also highlighted the importance of transparent public communication and risk management to maintain trust and support national resilience.

Tax Office Reveals Scheme of Splitting Businesses to Enjoy 0.5% MSME Tax Rate

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has uncovered a widespread practice where business owners establish multiple limited liability companies (PT) and limited partnerships (CV) to artificially keep each entity's turnover below the Rp4.8 billion threshold, thereby continuing to benefit from the 0.5% final income tax rate for MSMEs. The tax authority found individuals owning up to 50 such entities, prompting the government to revoke this tax facility for PTs and CVs under the new Government Regulation No. 20/2026. The facility will now only be available to individual taxpayers meeting the requirements.

DPR Commission VI Appreciates Telkom's Performance Amid Industry Challenges

Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives has praised PT Telkom Indonesia for its performance despite a challenging and competitive telecommunications landscape. The state-owned enterprise reported a slight revenue decline in FY2025 but maintained strong operational margins, while its Q1 2026 results showed early signs of revenue growth. Lawmakers encouraged continued innovation and internal synergy to sustain the company's strategic role in national digital transformation.

Female Civil Servant Found Dead in Government Vehicle Parked at Juanda Airport

A senior female civil servant from Bangkalan Regency was discovered deceased inside her official vehicle at Juanda Airport, Surabaya. The victim, who served as Secretary of the Public Housing and Settlement Area Agency, had been missing since a routine work trip on Thursday. Police are currently investigating the cause of death as the family awaits answers.

Observer: Pertamina's Fortune Southeast 500 entry showcases Indonesia's potential

Energy analyst Feiral Rizky Batubara says Pertamina's inclusion in the Fortune Southeast 500 ranking reflects Indonesia's significant potential in the energy sector and should be leveraged to boost investor confidence. He stressed that the state-owned enterprise must maintain its positive performance while acting as a locomotive for strong, sustainable energy security. The achievement places greater demands on Pertamina to balance profitability with its strategic mandate of ensuring affordable and equitable energy supply nationwide.

Identity of Woman Found Dead in Car at Juanda Airport Confirmed as Bangkalan Official

The body of a woman discovered in a government vehicle at Surabaya's Juanda Airport has been identified as a 50-year-old official from the Bangkalan Regency Housing and Settlement Office. The victim, identified by her initials RJS, had been missing since 18 June after telling her family she was attending a meeting. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of death while the Bangkalan regional government has dispatched a team to verify the official vehicle's status.

Ministry of Culture to Launch 'Indonesia Tells Stories' Movement

The Indonesian Ministry of Culture plans to launch a national 'Indonesia Tells Stories' movement to revive folklore and preserve oral traditions. The initiative will include storytelling workshops and incubation programmes to nurture a new generation of storytellers. A Gala Cerita Rakyat Indonesia event in 2026 will serve as a precursor, with a follow-up in 2027 focusing on family storytelling and educational applications.

Dengue Fever Cases in Klaten Drop Drastically, Public Urged to Remain Vigilant

Dengue fever cases in Klaten Regency have fallen sharply to 100 cases with one death by the 21st week of 2026, compared to 319 cases and three deaths in the same period last year. The local health chief attributed the decline to heightened public awareness, active mosquito nest eradication (PSN) campaigns, and the support of village-level larvae monitors. Despite the improvement, authorities continue to urge residents to maintain environmental cleanliness and remain alert to the Aedes aegypti mosquito.

Legal Counsel Calls Raudi Akmal's Suspect Designation an Anomaly: Judge Found No Active Involvement

The legal team for Raudi Akmal has questioned the decision to name him a suspect in a Sleman tourism grant corruption case, citing a prior court ruling that explicitly found no active involvement on his part. The presiding judge had determined that Akmal's activities, such as mass mobilisation and proposal assistance, did not constitute criminal corruption. His lawyer is now demanding clarity on what new evidence led prosecutors to a conclusion that contradicts the court's findings.

Cooperatives and Agriculture Key to Building Economic Self-Reliance

Strengthening the agricultural sector and cooperatives is seen as crucial for Indonesia's economic self-reliance. Officials at a seminar highlighted the success of the 1984 food self-sufficiency programme and the role of Village Unit Cooperatives (KUD) under former President Soeharto as a model for current initiatives like the Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP).

Ministry of Public Works Strengthens Irrigation and Water Supply for National Food Security

The Ministry of Public Works is intensifying efforts to secure water availability and irrigation systems in anticipation of the El Niño phenomenon. Measures include deep groundwater drilling, mandatory construction of tertiary irrigation networks, and the formation of an integrated task force. These actions align with a presidential instruction aimed at accelerating irrigation development to support national food self-sufficiency.

BRI Life Promotes Insurance Literacy for MSMEs Through Fun Run

BRI Life participated in the UMKM Fun Run 5K in Jakarta to promote healthy lifestyles and enhance financial literacy among micro, small, and medium enterprises. The insurer used the event to educate participants on the importance of insurance protection and financial planning. The initiative included a booth offering consultations and introducing digital products like Modi.

Avoiding the Temptation of Electability and Popularity in National Leadership

Former Trade Minister Gita Wirjawan has urged a fundamental reorientation of Indonesia's leadership criteria, shifting focus from electability and popularity to integrity, capability, and ethics. Speaking at a university event, he and Rector Sudirman Said emphasised that the nation's primary deficit is not capital but the courage to think big and honestly assess leadership quality. They called for massive investment in education as a concrete step to escape the trap of sensationalism.

Tegal City Government Launches Affordable Food Programme and Distributes Nutritional Aid Packages

The Tegal City Government in Central Java has launched a 'Gerakan Pangan Murah' (Affordable Food Movement) offering 1,000 subsidised staple food packages. Concurrently, 300 nutritional aid packages were distributed to pregnant women with chronic energy deficiency and toddlers at risk of stunting as part of efforts to combat malnutrition. The initiative, supported by Bank Indonesia and Bulog, aims to stabilise food prices and improve public health across four districts.

BP Tapera: 40-Year Tenure Subsidised Mortgage Scheme Expands Recipient Reach

Indonesia's Public Housing Savings Agency (BP Tapera) has announced that extending the tenure of subsidised mortgages (KPR) to 40 years will broaden access to homeownership. The longer repayment period significantly reduces monthly instalments, making them more affordable for lower-income groups. The government has approved the scheme, maintaining fixed interest rates of 5% for landed houses and 6% for flats.

Former Boss of Taufik Wants Dedi Mulyadi's Rp250 Million Bounty Handed to Victim

Dadang Ahyar Ismail, the former employer of kidnapping and abuse suspect Taufik Hidayat, has stated that any reward money from West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi's bounty should be given directly to the victim. Taufik was arrested in Majalaya after Dadang advised him to surrender. Police are continuing their investigation into the alleged three-year confinement and abuse of a 29-year-old woman.

Observer: Listyo Sigit's Presisi Concept Brings Change to the Police Force

Senior political analyst Boni Hargens has stated that National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo's 'Presisi' concept has driven a fundamental transformation of the Indonesian police force. The vision, built on the pillars of predictive analytics, responsibility, and transparency, aims to modernise the institution and restore public trust. The remarks were made during the launch of a book detailing Sigit's leadership and the future of the police in a democratic digital era.

Four Inpres Road Sections in North Sumatra Inaugurated by President Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated four regional road sections in North Sumatra, totalling 7.1 kilometres, built under the 2025 Presidential Instruction (Inpres) programme. The projects are part of a national effort to improve connectivity across 37 provinces, specifically to support food and energy self-sufficiency. Governor Bobby Nasution highlighted that the improved access will significantly reduce transport costs for farmers and facilitate the distribution of agricultural produce.

ISOG achieves first gas at Karamba Field, East Kalimantan

PT Indo Sino Oil and Gas (ISOG) has successfully delivered first gas from the Karamba Field in East Kalimantan, marking a strategic step in supporting national energy security. Initial production is set at 4 MMscfd, with a target plateau of 7.35 MMscfd by Q4 2026, supplying gas to Pertamina's Balikpapan refinery. The project was completed in just 25 months under a fast-track development scheme.

Ministry of Industry and Danareksa collaborate to strengthen industrial estate development

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry and state-owned enterprise PT Danareksa are deepening cooperation to manage and develop strategic industrial estates. The partnership aims to accelerate downstream processing, attract investment, and promote more equitable economic growth across the nation.

Fisherman Finds Body of Toddler Swept Away in Tanjung Sengkuang Waters

The search for a two-year-old boy who was swept away by strong currents in Batam ended in tragedy when a local fisherman discovered his body. The toddler, Azzair Ruknuddin Baibars, had been missing for two days after falling into a drainage channel during heavy rain. A joint SAR team recovered the body and handed it over to the grieving family.

Pelaku Usaha di Mimika Minta Kolaborasi Pemda Terkait Kendala Regulasi KBLI

Pelaku usaha di Kabupaten Mimika mengeluhkan ketidaksinkronan regulasi antara sistem OSS yang mengacu pada Peraturan Pemerintah dan notaris yang menggunakan data BPS, sehingga menghambat pendaftaran badan usaha. Mereka mendesak pemerintah daerah untuk memfasilitasi kolaborasi antara pihak terkait agar proses perizinan tidak merugikan pengusaha, terutama badan usaha berbentuk CV. Para pengusaha memperingatkan bahwa hambatan ini dapat mengganggu penyerapan anggaran pembangunan daerah, termasuk dana Otsus dan APBN.

What's the Latest on the Gaza Peace Talks? An Exclusive Report from Aljazeera

Gaza ceasefire negotiations in Cairo have hit a major obstacle over the issue of Palestinian disarmament. US-mediated talks are stalling on 'Clause 8', which details the handover of heavy weapons and security control, despite Hamas showing initial willingness to surrender its heavy arsenal. Palestinian officials argue the demands, pushed by US envoy Nickolay Mladenov, merely facilitate Israel's maximalist conditions.

Ahead of Jakarta's 500th Anniversary, Festivals and Creative Events Prepared as New Tourism Magnets

Jakarta is preparing a series of festivals and creative events to boost its appeal as a tourism and creative economy destination ahead of its 500th anniversary in 2027. The launch of the Remember Fest music festival, in collaboration with the city's official tourism platform Visiting Jakarta, aims to attract tens of thousands of visitors. Officials believe such events will not only draw tourists but also generate significant economic impact for local micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Teacher Embezzles Student Savings, Ombudsman: West Lombok Education Office Supervision Weak

The Indonesian Ombudsman in West Nusa Tenggara has criticised the West Lombok Education and Culture Office for weak oversight after a primary school teacher allegedly embezzled Rp 105 million in student savings. The Ombudsman questioned the school's savings management mechanism, stating it should involve official financial institutions. The case will serve as a gateway to evaluate student savings programmes across all schools in the regency.

Investment Prospects in Industrial Estates Amid Regulatory Strengthening

Investment interest in Indonesia's industrial estates remains robust in the first half of 2026, driven by the automotive sector, despite concerns over factory relocations to Vietnam. However, analysts warn that domestic economic slowdown and bureaucratic hurdles could erode Indonesia's attractiveness as an investment destination. The House of Representatives has submitted an academic draft for a new Industrial Estates Bill aimed at simplifying regulations and providing long-term land rights certainty to bolster investor confidence.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Hospitalised at Police Hospital for Digestive Illness, KPK Suspends Detention

Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, a suspect in the hajj quota corruption case, has been admitted to the Police Hospital in Kramat Jati for a digestive tract illness. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has granted a suspension of his detention to ensure his right to healthcare, while maintaining supervision over him. The case involves alleged bribery and has resulted in state losses estimated at Rp 622 billion.

Vocational Training Becomes Focus of Indonesia-China Education Cooperation

China's Ambassador to Indonesia, Wang Lutong, has highlighted vocational education as a key pillar of bilateral cooperation aimed at boosting Indonesia's human resources. The partnership will involve Chinese companies and universities collaborating with Indonesian polytechnics and vocational institutions. An earlier initiative between Indonesian and Chinese educational associations targets training 10,000 local talents and facilitating two-way mobility for 1,000 students across 10 industrial sectors.

Psychologist: Possessive Partner Behaviour Can Indicate an Unhealthy Relationship

Clinical psychologist Kasandra Putranto warns that possessive behaviour in relationships can be an early indicator of coercive control and potential violence. She explains that such actions often begin subtly, disguised as care, but can escalate into psychological or physical abuse, stripping the victim of autonomy. The warning comes amid a recent case in Bandung where a woman was allegedly held captive and tortured by her boyfriend for three years.

Madiun City Government Facilitates MSMEs to Level Up Through Traditional Snack Creation Competition

The Madiun City Government is fostering culinary micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by holding a traditional snack creation competition as part of the city's 108th anniversary. The initiative aims to upgrade MSME skills and tourism standards, with winning products set to be patented and their creators receiving advanced business mentoring. The competition saw 54 teams participate, with 'King Peanut Madiun' from Banjarejo emerging as the champion.

Islamic Philanthropy Becomes an Alternative to Combat Extreme Drought and Energy Crisis

As Indonesia faces predictions of severe drought and energy supply threats, grassroots movements are channelling Islamic philanthropy into environmental action. Initiatives like 'Wakaf Hutan' (Forest Endowment) and 'Sedekah Energi' (Energy Alms) are using religious donations to protect water catchment areas and install solar panels on mosques, providing tangible community resilience.

IDR 127 Million in Aid Distributed to Vulnerable Communities Near Balikpapan Refinery

PT Kilang Pertamina Balikpapan has distributed IDR 127 million in social assistance to 250 vulnerable individuals, including orphans and people with disabilities, in Balikpapan and Penajam Paser Utara. The initiative, part of the nationwide 'Pertamina Berkah' programme, was accompanied by an interfaith prayer event seeking safety and smooth operations for the refinery. The programme reflects Pertamina's commitment to social responsibility while supporting national energy resilience.

BPOM supports health tourism with special herbal medicine access

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) is facilitating health tourism through a Special Access Scheme for medicines, aiming to boost a global wellness market projected to reach trillions of dollars. The agency has issued 19 SAS approvals since June 2025, while the Tourism Minister highlighted the potential of combining traditional jamu heritage with modern medical facilities. Strict supervision will be maintained to ensure patient safety as the nation seeks to position its tourism villages as high-value health destinations.

Attorney General's Office Returns Rp19.6 Trillion to State Coffers

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has returned Rp19.6 trillion to the state treasury in 2025 through asset tracing, seizure, and management, marking a significant shift in law enforcement towards victim restitution. The figure represents a sharp increase from Rp1.4 trillion in 2024, with a target of Rp3.2 trillion set for 2026. The office has also formed a special task force to trace assets of long-standing convicts, including corruption fugitive Eddy Tansil.

Biometric SIM Registration Expected to Enhance Mobile Service Security

Indonesia is finalising plans to implement biometric-based SIM card registration using facial recognition technology. Experts believe this will improve customer data accuracy and security, helping to combat fraud, spam, and phishing, though significant investment and infrastructure evaluation are required before full rollout.

Former KPK Chief: Public Governance Must Be Based on Firm Sanctions

Former Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) chairman Agus Rahardjo has called for Indonesian law to be applied firmly at all levels, not just against the weak, to improve public governance. Speaking at a seminar in Tegal, he cited Singapore as an example where officials strictly comply with the law. Rector Sudirman Said added that cross-sector collaboration between government, business, and civil society is essential to address major issues like poverty and climate change.

Telkom's 2026 Dividend Achievement Surpasses 2025 Performance, DPR Commission VI Offers Praise

PT Telkom Indonesia reported a higher dividend payout for 2026, reaching 22 per cent compared to 21.05 per cent in 2025. The House of Representatives' Commission VI commended the state-owned enterprise's improved performance, noting the dividends ultimately benefit the public. Lawmakers also urged Telkom to continue its digital transformation to keep pace with the rapidly growing creative economy.

RI reaffirms commitment to energy transition at GETES in London

Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to a responsible energy transition at the GETES 2026 forum in London, emphasising the need to balance economic growth with strict environmental standards. Environment Minister Hidayat highlighted the nation's crucial role in global climate mitigation due to its vast rainforests, peatlands, and mangroves. The government's integrated policy approach aligns with UN calls for a just and inclusive transition, while also inviting stronger multilateral cooperation.

Digital Economy Demands Job-Ready Talent, Universities Encourage Students to Build Portfolios Early

As Indonesia's digital economy expands, employers increasingly value practical skills and demonstrable experience over purely academic credentials. In response, Universitas Nusa Mandiri has introduced flexible final project options, including app development and tech entrepreneurship, to ensure graduates possess industry-relevant portfolios. The initiative aims to produce talent capable of not only filling roles but also creating new jobs through innovation.

Makassar Dekranasda Showcases MSME Crafts to International Delegation

The Makassar Regional National Crafts Council (Dekranasda) presented local MSME products to an international delegation during the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series (IGS) 2026. The exhibition, titled 'The Taste and Craft of Makassar', aimed to promote the city's cultural identity and creative economy on a global stage. Officials hope the event will open new opportunities for international economic cooperation and cultural diplomacy.

Third SPPI Kopdes-KNPM Participant Dies During Military Training

A third participant in Indonesia's Sarjana Penggerak Pembangun Indonesia (SPPI) programme has died during basic military training, bringing the total fatalities to three. The latest victim, Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, reportedly succumbed to tuberculosis, while previous deaths were attributed to heat stroke and cardiac arrest. The Ministry of Defence has expressed condolences and pledged to evaluate training protocols to prioritise participant safety.

Lawyer Denies Pregnant ASN Found Dead in Official Car at Juanda Airport

The lawyer for a deceased Indonesian civil servant (ASN) found in her official car at Juanda Airport has refuted claims she was pregnant. The family reported her missing days before her body was discovered, stating there were no known domestic issues or prior indication she would travel out of town.

Home Minister: House Renovation Programme a Tangible Sign of Government's Pro-Poor Stance

Home Minister Tito Karnavian has highlighted the government's commitment to improving public welfare through the BSPS home renovation programme, stating it directly reflects President Prabowo's concern for the underprivileged. He argued that providing decent housing is intrinsically linked to reducing poverty, citing high numbers of substandard homes in Gorontalo. The minister expressed satisfaction with the programme's rapid implementation and its visible impact on beneficiaries.

Gianyar Manpower Office Holds FGD on Region-Based Village Economy

The Gianyar Regency Manpower Office convened a focus group discussion to explore region-based rural economic development models. The forum brought together academics and officials to formulate inclusive and sustainable strategies aimed at expanding employment opportunities. The discussion emphasised shifting from programme-based implementation to building a sustainable economic ecosystem in villages.

Medan Primary School Girl Who Killed Mother Sentenced to 5 Months of Assisted Care

A primary school girl in Medan who killed her 42-year-old mother has been sentenced to five months of state-supervised care rather than a punitive term. The ruling was made under Indonesia's new Criminal Code, with the child to be placed under the guidance of the Ministry of Social Affairs. Both prosecutors and the defence have been given seven days to consider whether to appeal the verdict.

Mining company opens Sulawesi biodiversity conservation zone

Nickel Industries has established a 196.78-hectare High Conservation Value Area in Central Sulawesi as part of its operational commitment to biodiversity. The zone protects endemic species such as the Sulawesi hornbill and anoa, and has received backing from the local Natural Resources Conservation Agency. The initiative aims to integrate environmental stewardship with mining activities through scientific research, community collaboration, and a mitigation-focused management approach.

Indonesia to be Official Partner Country of Russia's INNOPROM 2026

Indonesia has been designated the official partner country for the INNOPROM 2026 industrial exhibition in Ekaterinburg, Russia. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita will lead the delegation, aiming to showcase Indonesian products and forge new trade and investment agreements with Russia and CIS nations.

Economist confident Indonesia has great potential to capture industry relocation

An economist from Indef believes Indonesia has a significant opportunity to attract industrial relocation amid global supply chain diversification. To compete with regional rivals like Vietnam and Thailand, the government must strengthen legal certainty, infrastructure, and regulatory harmonisation. Indonesia's position as a critical mineral producer also offers strategic advantages in the green economy transition.

Boni Hargens: Listyo Sigit's 'Presisi' Concept Brings Significant Change to the National Police

Senior political analyst Boni Hargens has stated that National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo's 'Presisi' vision has driven a fundamental transformation of the Indonesian police force. The concept, built on predictive analytics, responsibility, and transparency, is credited with restoring public trust after a period of reputational crisis. Hargens made the remarks during the launch of a book detailing Sigit's role as the architect of the police reform programme.

Fahira Idris: Innovation, Talent and Youth Energy Will Drive Jakarta as a Global City

Senator Fahira Idris has emphasised that Jakarta's future as a global city hinges on nurturing innovation and empowering its youth, rather than solely on physical infrastructure. Speaking at a Jakarta Leaders Talk event, she argued the city must adopt new ways of thinking to address challenges like pollution and social inequality. She called for public service digitalisation and inclusive development to ensure residents feel integral to the city's progress as it approaches its 500th anniversary.

Residents Complain of Long Trailer Queues in Cakung-Cilincing

Residents of Cakung-Cilincing in North Jakarta are voicing frustration over kilometres-long queues of trailer trucks waiting to load and unload at local depots, causing severe traffic disruption. The congestion, which occurs daily from early morning to midnight, has reportedly spurred illegal street vending and prostitution. The North Jakarta administration has acknowledged the issue and is planning to regulate heavy vehicle parking, particularly in residential zones.

Downstreaming Potential in Non-Mining Sectors Could Spur Economic Growth

Indonesia's Investment Ministry highlights significant downstreaming opportunities beyond mining, particularly in agriculture and fisheries, to drive economic growth. Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu emphasised the need to capitalise on renewable resources like palm oil for biodiesel and crops for bioethanol as mineral reserves deplete. The government is also targeting the fisheries sector with plans to boost the shipbuilding industry and provide fishing vessels to upscale production.

NASA Discovers Ancient 12-Billion-Year-Old Comet, Older Than the Solar System

Astronomers have identified an interstellar comet, 3I/ATLAS, that is estimated to be up to 12 billion years old, making it nearly three times older than our solar system. Observations using the James Webb Space Telescope revealed an unusually high abundance of heavy water, suggesting it formed in an extremely cold environment. The comet is now leaving the solar system, but scientists anticipate discovering more such interstellar objects in the coming years.

UBK Alumni Association Condemns Student Body Members for Allegedly Accepting Money to Relocate Protest

The Alumni Association of Bung Karno University (IKA UBK) has strongly condemned members of its Student Executive Board (BEM) for allegedly accepting money to move a demonstration from the Presidential Palace to the Parliament building. The BEM Law Faculty chairman admitted to receiving Rp20 million after a protest and meeting Vice President Gibran Rakabuming, sparking accusations of transactional politics. IKA UBK has demanded strict sanctions from the university and called for students to return to their role as a moral force.

Molotov Thrower Who Hit Wrong Target in Koja Now on the Run

A man who threw a Molotov cocktail at a house in Koja, North Jakarta, mistakenly hitting a passing mother and child, has fled his home and is being pursued by police. The attack, driven by jealousy over an ex-wife's new relationship, was intended for the new partner's uncle but instead struck the innocent bystanders. Police have identified four suspects involved in the incident and are continuing their search.

Orang Rimba in Jambi Seek Protection from Coal Mining Impacts

The indigenous Orang Rimba community and villagers in Batang Hari, Jambi, are urging the government to protect them from the adverse effects of coal mining. They have discovered that their allocated living space includes mining and palm oil concessions, sparking fears of conflict and environmental damage. Local officials acknowledge the need to balance regional income from mining with the welfare of affected communities.

Trump Threatens to 'Divorce' US from Israel, Says Jewish People Are Fed Up with Netanyahu

President Donald Trump reportedly threatened a 'divorce' between the US and Israel during a heated phone call, claiming that 'all Jewish people' are tired of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The exchange, detailed in a new book, reveals deep frustrations over stalled peace negotiations and Netanyahu's resistance to a Gaza peace plan. The revelations come amid broader tensions, including US warnings that Netanyahu may seek to undermine a lasting peace with Iran.

KPK suspends detention of Yaqut Cholil Qoumas due to illness

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has suspended the detention of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, a suspect in the 2023-2024 hajj quota corruption case, due to a digestive tract illness requiring hospitalisation. Yaqut was initially detained in March 2026 and his status was briefly changed to house arrest before he was returned to the KPK detention centre. The KPK stated that investigators will continue to monitor his health while ensuring the investigation proceeds accordingly.

North Sumatra Governor Supports 2026 Regional Scout Jamboree as Youth Development Platform

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has endorsed the 2026 Regional Scout Jamboree, set to take place in Sibolangit this July. The event aims to blend traditional scouting values with modern technology to attract thousands of young participants. Organisers also highlighted the jamboree's economic impact and its role in character building, with a focus on integrity, skills, and drug prevention education.

Ministry of MSMEs Reminds E-Commerce Traders: BPJS Membership Required for Incentives

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) has clarified that BPJS social security membership is a prerequisite for online traders to access government incentives, including up to 50% reductions in marketplace service fees. The ministry emphasised this is not a new rule but reinforces existing laws mandating social security for all workers. It also assured that implementation for micro and small businesses will include flexibility and discretion.

Global Component Shortage Drives Laptop Prices Up by 50%

A worldwide semiconductor shortage, exacerbated by surging demand from AI and data centre sectors, is causing laptop prices to spike by up to 50%. ASUS Indonesia reports that entry-level segments are hardest hit, with demand falling 20-30%, prompting a strategic shift towards the business and enterprise markets.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Commits to Improving Health Services for Upcoming Hajj Season

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has pledged to enhance healthcare services for the next Hajj season, focusing on stricter pre-departure health screenings. Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf acknowledged that this year's services were not optimal and require evaluation. The Jambi regional office also noted provincial government support of IDR 42 billion for domestic Hajj operations.

Social Affairs Ministry Partners with Penjaga Harapan to Produce 'Sekolah Rakyat' Film

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs is collaborating with the platform Penjaga Harapan to produce a short film aimed at promoting the government's 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School) programme. The 25-minute film will depict a child from an extremely poor family gaining access to education, using a humanistic approach to build public empathy and understanding. Officials hope the creative project will effectively communicate how the state provides hope and a pathway out of poverty through boarding school education for the most vulnerable economic groups.

Singapore Think Tank Issues Disaster Warning for Southeast Asia, Highlights Indonesia

The Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA) has issued its highest 'red' risk rating for severe transboundary haze in Southeast Asia through late 2026, peaking around August and September due to a strong El Niño. The report specifically highlights Indonesia, noting that President Prabowo Subianto faces his first high-risk dry season amid public spending cuts that are straining fire management budgets. The institute warns that economic pressures, including rising fertiliser costs and biofuel demand, may drive unsustainable land-clearing practices, increasing the risk of forest and peatland fires.

Global Trust in Trump and US Reliability Declines Sharply, Including in Indonesia

A new Pew Research Center survey reveals a significant global decline in confidence towards US President Donald Trump, with trust falling in 16 of 24 countries surveyed and showing no improvement anywhere. Indonesia is among the nations where positive perceptions have sharply decreased. The survey also highlights a dramatic erosion of trust among traditional allies, with Canada and Germany reporting steep drops in the view of the US as a reliable partner.

Indonesia approves 40-year subsidized mortgage scheme

The Indonesian government has approved a 40-year tenor for subsidised mortgages (KPR) following a directive from President Prabowo Subianto, aiming to make home financing more affordable. The Public Housing Savings Management Agency (BP Tapera) Committee also decided to maintain the landed housing mortgage rate at 5 percent despite a higher central bank rate, while setting a 6 percent rate for subsidised apartments. A quota of 350,000 subsidised housing units has been prepared, with banks and developers urged to coordinate to meet the target sustainably.

Customs at Soekarno-Hatta Airport Foil Three Drug Smuggling Attempts

Soekarno-Hatta Airport Customs, in collaboration with BNN and police, uncovered three narcotics smuggling cases between March and June 2026. The seizures included 4,000 grams of methamphetamine, 10,785 grams of marijuana, and 3,006 grams of hashish, potentially saving over 22,000 lives and averting an estimated Rp36.39 billion in rehabilitation costs. Suspects face maximum penalties of death or life imprisonment under Indonesia's narcotics law.

Psychologist Reveals Factors Triggering Violent and Aggressive Behaviour

Psychologist Samanta Elsener from the Indonesian Psychological Association (HIMPSI) explains that family background, harsh parenting, and social environments are key factors that can trigger violent behaviour. She describes a 'cycle of violence' where children raised with aggression may normalise it, potentially carrying these patterns into adulthood. The discussion follows a recent case in Bandung where a woman was allegedly held captive and tortured by her partner for three years, highlighting the need for community vigilance and professional intervention to break the cycle.

Biometric SIM registration seen as strengthening trust in digital ecosystem

A telecommunications expert argues that biometric SIM card registration using facial recognition will enhance trust in Indonesia's digital ecosystem by linking mobile numbers more securely to banking, e-commerce, and government services. The policy, set to begin in July 2026, aims to curb anonymous SIM use for online crime but must balance data protection and digital inclusion to avoid excluding remote or vulnerable groups.

Police Seize Evidence of Used Mobile Phone Imports in Raid on Sidoarjo Customs Office

Indonesian police have raided the Sidoarjo Customs office and three other locations as part of a corruption investigation into the illegal import of used mobile phones. The probe uncovered evidence of falsified import documents and suspected illicit payments to state officials between 2024 and 2026. Authorities seized mobile phones, cash, gold jewellery, and property certificates, and have questioned 30 customs officers and 20 private individuals.

State-Owned Enterprise Performance Improves Thanks to Transformation

Indonesian state-owned enterprises (BUMN) are showing significant profit growth following governance reforms led by BP BUMN and BPI Danantara. Key companies like Pelindo, Pupuk Indonesia, PLN, and Pertamina reported substantial increases in earnings, with a focus on accountability and data-driven management. The government also emphasised that state-owned banks must balance commercial performance with support for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

China Fumes at Japan as Two Asian Giants Stand on War Alert

China has accused Japan of dangerous close-range reconnaissance and provocative actions during a 40-day naval drill by the Liaoning carrier strike group in the Western Pacific. Beijing aired footage of Japanese patrol aircraft and destroyers operating near its vessels, while Tokyo confirmed it was monitoring the fleet's movements. The tensions are heightened by previous Japanese remarks about potential military intervention in a Taiwan crisis.

Deputy Home Minister: Leaders Must Have Ideology, Strategy, and Tactics

Deputy Home Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has outlined three essential foundations for aspiring regional leaders and bureaucrats: ideology, strategy, and tactics. He stressed that leaders must hold firm values to avoid being swayed by transactional interests and should focus on field-based problem-solving. Bima cited his own tenure, where strategic planning led to significant infrastructure improvements and a reminder that leadership is a temporary mandate to be used for public betterment.

Rainforest Alliance promotes transition to regenerative agriculture

The Rainforest Alliance's 2025 annual report highlights significant progress in sustainable farming across Indonesia, with increased certified cocoa and coffee production. The organisation has introduced a new Regenerative Agriculture Standard to ensure measurable impacts on soil, biodiversity, and livelihoods, moving beyond mere claims. This shift aims to restore ecosystems and strengthen farmer resilience amid climate and market uncertainties.

DJP Seizes 230 Assets from Tax Delinquents in East Java Worth IDR 24.9 Billion

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has seized 230 assets valued at IDR 24.9 billion from 158 tax delinquents across East Java during a coordinated enforcement week. The action, targeting a total outstanding tax debt of IDR 621.2 billion, was taken after prior warnings and legal procedures were exhausted. Officials emphasised the seizures are not final, as taxpayers can still settle their debts to halt further enforcement.

Venice Looks To Increase Daily Tourist Tax: Could Bali Benefit From Tourism Tax Reform?

Venice plans to raise its day-tripper entry fee to as much as €50, prompting comparisons with Bali's own tourism tax. While Venice's levy has generated significant revenue, Bali faces low compliance with its IDR 150,000 foreign tourist levy, with only around 35% of visitors paying. The situation highlights the challenges Indonesian authorities face in enforcing tourism taxes and the potential need for policy reform to boost revenue and manage mass tourism.

Ombudsman issues 203 recommendations to improve public services

Indonesia's Ombudsman has submitted 203 studies and recommendations to ministries, agencies, and local public service providers as part of a systemic push to prevent maladministration. The reports cover strategic areas including pandemic border control, housing mortgage oversight, hajj services, and human trafficking prevention. Officials acknowledged the institution's preventive role but noted that budget constraints remain a challenge to its supervisory effectiveness.

Export Governance Strengthened, Business Sector Optimistic About National Economic Competitiveness

Indonesia's business community, represented by Apindo, has welcomed the establishment of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) as a positive step towards strengthening export governance. The new body's commitment to recruiting top market professionals is seen as a strong signal of professionalism and responsiveness to global commodity volatility. DSI is expected to curb practices like under-invoicing through data integration without adding bureaucratic layers, with a transitional policy until 2027 providing market adaptation time.

Positive News For Bali’s Waste Management Issues: Here’s What Tourists Need To Know

Kutuh Village in Bali has successfully implemented a zero-waste system, processing up to 20 tons of waste daily through its TPS3R facility and community composting programmes. The initiative, which began in 2021, relies on source-based waste management and economic incentives like a plastic exchange programme, eliminating the need to send rubbish to the island's overburdened landfills. This local success offers a hopeful model as the province prepares to close its largest dump and awaits the construction of a major waste-to-energy plant.

Pasar Saham Indonesia Kembali Tergoncang, MSCI Buka Risiko Downgrade di November 2026

Indeks Harga Saham Gabungan (IHSG) kembali tertekan setelah MSCI mengumumkan perpanjangan peninjauan status pasar Indonesia yang dapat berujung pada downgrade ke status frontier pada November 2026. Meskipun MSCI mengakui adanya reformasi transparansi dari regulator, pelaku pasar menyampaikan kekhawatiran mendalam terkait kelayakan investasi, yang memicu aksi jual asing dengan net sell mencapai Rp1,17 triliun dalam sehari. Analis menilai bobot Indonesia yang kini menyusut menjadi 0,4% di MSCI membuat tekanan jual kali ini tidak akan semasif periode sebelumnya, namun risiko downgrade tetap menjadi sentimen negatif utama.

Bali Starts Transition To Cashless Culture In Top Tourism Destinations

Penglipuran Village in Bali is leading a shift towards a cashless economy, with 40% of tourist transactions already digital and plans to expand this across the entire community's financial governance. The initiative, supported by Bank Indonesia, aims to modernise economic management and boost financial inclusion for small tourism businesses. The village will showcase its blend of tradition and digital innovation at its annual festival in July 2026.

Tapping the Commercial Potential of Fortified Rice: Retail and Industry Urged to Expand Market

Indonesia's fortified rice market is transitioning from a public health initiative to a promising commercial sector, with retailers and producers ready to scale up distribution. However, industry leaders warn that a lack of clear pricing references and a 20-30% price premium over regular rice are causing market fragmentation. Key strategies to stabilise the market include regulatory clarity, supply chain efficiency, and sustained consumer education.

Burdened by Bulog Tax, NTB Corn Farmers Appeal to Governor Iqbal

Corn farmers in West Nusa Tenggara have protested to Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal over a 1.5% income tax deduction on government purchase prices imposed by the state logistics agency Bulog. The farmers claim the levy, which has cost them billions of rupiah, has severely impacted their livelihoods. Governor Iqbal confirmed the tax has been frozen and pledged to coordinate the restitution of funds already collected.

Tifa's Trial in Jokowi Diploma Case to Begin July 2 at East Jakarta Court

The East Jakarta District Court will commence the first hearing for defendant Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Dr Tifa, on 2 July 2026 over allegations of spreading false claims about President Joko Widodo's diploma. Meanwhile, co-defendant Roy Suryo's trial date remains pending as he has filed a pre-trial motion at the South Jakarta District Court. Both were previously arrested and handed over to prosecutors but were not detained, instead being required to report weekly.

Like Unrequited Love, US Claims Once Again Denied by Iran

The Trump administration's assertions of major Iranian concessions in ongoing nuclear and economic negotiations are being consistently refuted by Tehran, creating global uncertainty. Disputed points include unlimited nuclear inspections, mandated spending of unfrozen assets on US goods, and permanent free passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran maintains that cooperation with the IAEA will follow existing procedures and that it retains full sovereignty over its financial assets.

Bali Hosts International Forum on the Future of Low-Emission Agriculture

Bali is hosting an international forum bringing together representatives from Asia and Africa to exchange knowledge on low-emission technologies for rice and livestock systems. The event aims to bridge the gap between global emission reduction commitments and practical implementation at the farm level, addressing challenges such as limited technology access and climate funding. Participants will discuss innovations in water management, fertiliser efficiency, and digital monitoring, with a field visit to Bali's UNESCO-recognised subak irrigation system.

Seized assets from Ebenezer et al. corruption case exhibited, ready for auction at Hakordia

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has exhibited assets seized from former Deputy Manpower Minister Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan and other convicts in a workplace safety certification bribery case. The items, including luxury cars and motorcycles, are set to be auctioned during the World Anti-Corruption Day (Hakordia) events. The auction will proceed as the case has reached a final and binding legal verdict.

Egypt Responds to Indonesia's Single-Door Palm Oil Export Policy via DSI

Egypt has expressed respect for Indonesia's new single-door palm oil export policy through Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), while emphasising the need to maintain supply stability. The Egyptian Ambassador highlighted that palm oil trade between the two nations is valued at US$1.2 billion annually. Both countries are also deepening broader strategic ties following an upgraded partnership agreement in April 2025.

Prof Rycko Amelza: BPS Data Shows Indonesia Imported Corn Since 1973, Stopped in 2026, Polri Made History

Retired Police Commissioner General Rycko Amelza claims Indonesia has stopped importing corn for the first time in 53 years and has begun exporting, attributing this historic shift to the National Police's (Polri) role in accelerating production under President Prabowo's food self-sufficiency policy. He called for a critical review of past agricultural policies and highlighted ongoing challenges for farmers, including access to capital, superior seeds, affordable fertiliser, and fair market access. The discussion took place at a police studies centre in Jakarta.

Holding 2026 National Work Meeting in Palembang, AMPHURI Highlights E-Wallet Umrah Discourse

The Indonesian Muslim Hajj and Umrah Organisers Association (AMPHURI) opened its 2026 National Work Meeting in Palembang, focusing on strategic planning and regulatory changes under the new Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Key discussions centred on the controversial e-Wallet Umrah proposal and the impact of Law No. 14/2025, which the association fears may centralise control and marginalise licensed businesses. The forum also addressed rampant non-procedural umrah practices and called for stricter government enforcement.

Indonesia to Optimise All Platforms to Advocate for Middle East Peace

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has pledged to utilise all available international platforms, including BRICS, to push for peace in the Middle East. Jakarta is closely monitoring negotiations between the US and Iran, as well as between Israel and Lebanon, while respecting the conflicting parties' choice of mediators. The ministry emphasised that its diplomatic efforts are intended to complement ongoing peace initiatives.

BPJS Membership Becomes Requirement for Marketplace Sellers to Receive Incentives

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises has confirmed that BPJS Health and Employment membership is a prerequisite for marketplace traders to access government incentives, including up to 50% service fee reductions. The ministry clarified that this requirement reinforces existing social security laws rather than introducing a new mandate. Flexible implementation mechanisms are being developed to accommodate micro and small businesses.

US Senate Resolution Could Push Washington to Soften Stance on Iran

An international relations expert argues that a US Senate resolution urging restraint against Iran may compel Washington to adopt a more moderate approach. The assessment points to depleted US energy reserves, lack of NATO support, and a strengthening Iran-Russia-China coalition as factors weakening America's position. This shift could open greater diplomatic space between the two nations, even as the US might seek to pressure Iran on nuclear issues through international law.

US-Iran MoU: Egyptian Ambassador Stresses Importance of Gulf Security

Egypt's Ambassador to Indonesia has welcomed the US-Iran memorandum and underscored the critical need for stability in the Gulf region. He affirmed Egypt's unwavering political and military support for its GCC partners and detailed Cairo's active backchannel diplomatic role since the conflict began. Egypt is committed to maintaining its diplomatic engagement throughout the upcoming 60-day negotiation phase.

Jakarta to build 11 public housing towers in 2027 to meet demand

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has approved funding for 11 new large-scale public apartment towers (rusun) to be built next year, addressing the capital's growing housing needs amid scarce land availability. The initiative aims to provide transparent access for residents to purchase or rent units, as rising property prices make landed houses increasingly unaffordable. The move is part of a broader strategy to promote vertical housing as a practical solution for urban dwellers.

Antisocial Personality Disorder Can Trigger Repeated Violence Without Remorse

A psychologist explains that Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is a serious mental condition, not merely a bad temper, which can lead individuals to commit repeated acts of cruelty without guilt. The disorder is characterised by a lack of empathy, manipulative behaviour, and viewing others as objects for personal gratification. The explanation comes amid public attention on a case in Bandung where a woman was held captive and severely abused by her partner for three years.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut's Detention Suspended for Digestive Illness Treatment at Police Hospital

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has temporarily suspended the detention of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas so he can receive inpatient care for a digestive tract ailment at the Kramat Jati Police Hospital. The suspension is based on a medical examination and is intended to uphold the suspect's right to health, while investigators continue to monitor him. Yaqut is one of four suspects in a hajj quota corruption case that allegedly caused state losses of Rp 622 billion.

Woman's Confinement in Bandung Reflects Deeply Rooted Patriarchal Ideology

A sociologist argues that the recent case of a woman confined and abused for three years in Bandung is rooted in patriarchal ideology, not merely the perpetrator's psychology. The phenomenon, described as 'trauma bonding', highlights how cultural and religious norms perpetuate gender inequality despite existing laws. Experts urge the state to intervene in socio-cultural values, not just strengthen law enforcement, to combat violence against women.

Four road sections in North Sumatra inaugurated by President Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated four regional road packages in North Sumatra, totalling 7.1 kilometres, as part of a nationwide infrastructure push. The projects, funded under Presidential Instruction No. 11 of 2025, aim to accelerate connectivity to support food and energy self-sufficiency. Governor Bobby Nasution highlighted that the improved roads will significantly ease the transport of agricultural produce and reduce logistics costs for local communities.

Central Java BPBD distributes 654,000 litres of water to tackle drought

The Central Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has distributed 654,000 litres of clean water as the dry season intensifies, with Klaten Regency receiving the largest share. Local governments have stockpiled a total of 123 million litres in anticipation, while eight regions have declared drought emergency alert status. Authorities are urging residents to conserve water and report shortages through local administrative channels.

Ngurah Rai Airport Opens Denpasar-Canberra Flight Route

Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport has launched a new direct flight route to Canberra, operated by Virgin Australia, further strengthening air connectivity between Indonesia and its top tourism market. The service, operating three times weekly, marks the 12th direct route between Australia and Bali and is expected to boost tourism and the local economy.

BKPM Reveals Major Potential for Downstreaming in Non-Mining Sectors

Indonesia's Investment Ministry highlights significant downstreaming opportunities beyond mining, focusing on agriculture, fisheries, and renewable energy. Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu outlined plans to add value to commodities like palm oil for biofuels and cassava for ethanol, aiming to boost economic growth and job creation. The government is also preparing to support the fisheries sector with new shipyards and fishing vessels.

Iran Resolution Shows US Democracy Still Functioning, Says UI Professor

A University of Indonesia international relations professor argues the US Senate's approval of a resolution limiting President Trump's military authority against Iran proves American democratic checks and balances remain effective. The move is seen as preventing conflict escalation and opening diplomatic channels between Washington and Tehran. The professor noted the resolution could significantly constrain the president's unilateral military decision-making in the future.

West Java Prepares Scholarships for 80,000 Private School Students

The West Java provincial government is allocating scholarships worth Rp2.7 million per year for 80,000 private high school and vocational school students to prevent dropouts due to economic hardship. Governor Dedi Mulyadi stated this initiative means 90 per cent of education in the province is now effectively free. The programme also aims to fill empty classrooms in private schools that previously lost students to state institutions.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister urges regional heads to strengthen local identity

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on regional leaders to move beyond uniform development models and leverage local wisdom to build distinctive regional identities. He stressed that a strong local image requires a sustainable innovation ecosystem encompassing research, regulation, and funding, not just temporary promotions. The initiative aims to spur regional economic revival and support national growth targets.

Fatmawati Rusdi Opens IGS 2026 Business Forum, Showcases South Sulawesi Investment Potential to 28-Nation Delegation

South Sulawesi's Vice Governor Fatmawati Rusdi inaugurated the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series 2026 Business Forum in Makassar, presenting the province's strategic economic sectors to delegates from 28 countries. The event served as a business matching platform connecting local enterprises with ambassadors, investors, and international business figures to explore trade, investment, and creative economy partnerships. Makassar's Mayor also highlighted the city's role as a gateway to Eastern Indonesia, offering strategic projects and noting a 2025 investment realisation of Rp5.2 trillion.

High Waves Cause 2.6 km Traffic Queue at Gilimanuk Port

Severe weather and high waves in the Bali Strait have severely disrupted ferry operations, leading to a 2.6-kilometre traffic jam at Gilimanuk Port in Jembrana, Bali. Police have implemented traffic diversions through residential areas for smaller vehicles to manage the congestion, while authorities have adopted a 'Tiba Bongkar Berangkat' (TBB) system to speed up ship movements.

US Senate Resolution Seen as Curbing Trump’s Room for Manoeuvre in Iran Conflict

The US Senate’s passage of a resolution demanding President Trump either halt military action against Iran or seek Congressional approval is viewed as a positive check on White House foreign policy. An Indonesian analyst argues the move signals legislative intent to oversee negotiations and could significantly constrain the administration’s ability to fund large-scale military operations. The development underscores the role of Congress in scrutinising executive decisions, though domestic political dynamics remain a factor to watch.

Bukalapak Accelerates Expansion of Mitra, Gaming, Investment, and Retail After Business Transformation

PT Bukalapak.com Tbk (BUKA) is accelerating the development of four core business lines—Mitra Bukalapak, Gaming, Investment, and Retail—following its exit from physical goods sales. The strategic shift has yielded significant financial results, with 2025 revenue growing 46% to Rp6.5 trillion and Q1 2026 revenue up 63% year-on-year. The company also achieved a positive Adjusted EBITDA of Rp4 billion in the first quarter of 2026, marking a turnaround from a loss in the prior year.

Education Ministry Updates Number and Rules of Tests in 2026 Friendly MPLS

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has revised the testing components for the 2026 Friendly School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS). The updated assessments, expanded from two to three parts, will now evaluate new students' socio-emotional state, literacy, numeracy, and their talents and interests. Results will be centrally processed and shared with teachers, headmasters, and parents to better tailor learning and parenting support.

Body of Woman Found in Official Car at Juanda Airport Identified as Bangkalan Civil Servant

A deceased woman discovered inside a government vehicle at Juanda Airport has been identified as a 50-year-old official from the Bangkalan Regency Housing and Settlement Department. The victim, a secretary at the department, was last seen leaving for work on Thursday and was reported unreachable by her family on Saturday evening. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.

Judicial Honour Council dishonourably discharges Judge SW proven to have accepted Rp2 billion bribe

The Judicial Honour Council (MKH) has imposed the severe sanction of dishonourable discharge on Judge SW, formerly of the South Jakarta District Court, after he was found to have accepted bribes totalling Rp2 billion. The funds, intended as payment for an auctioned property, were instead used by the judge for personal ventures, including building a CV and paying off his mortgage. The council rejected his defence, citing the gravity of the ethical violations and his failure to return the money.

UN Issues Stern Warning, World in Great Danger

The United Nations has issued a stark warning about the environmental and societal costs of artificial intelligence, urging major tech companies to be transparent about their energy and water consumption. Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted that AI could consume more energy than all but five countries by 2030 and use enough water to meet the basic needs of 1.3 billion people in sub-Saharan Africa. He also called for urgent action on methane emissions and a just transition away from fossil fuels ahead of the COP31 climate conference.

Government Launches Public Poll for 81st Independence Day Logo Selection

The Indonesian government has, for the first time, invited the public to directly vote for the official logo of the 81st Independence Day celebrations. Five finalist designs, curated from 124 submissions with the help of the Indonesian Graphic Designers Association, are open for polling from 24 to 28 June 2026. The initiative, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to make the national commemoration a shared celebration owned by all citizens.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Retains Gold Award at ARA 2026 for Second Consecutive Year

Indonesia's social security agency for workers, BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, has secured the top-tier Gold Award at the Australasian Reporting Awards (ARA) 2026 for the second year running. The award recognises the institution's 2024 Annual Integrated Report for meeting international standards in transparency, accountability, and sustainability. It was the only Indonesian state institution to participate and win at the prestigious Asia-Pacific event.

KPK Increasingly Confident About Hajj Quota Allocation Scheme After Third Examination of Hilman Latief

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has interrogated former Director General of Hajj and Umrah, Hilman Latief, for a third time, strengthening its belief that additional hajj quotas were improperly split 50-50 between regular and special pilgrims instead of the mandated 92-8 ratio. The investigation is part of a broader corruption case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and three other suspects, with state losses estimated at Rp 622 billion.

Semarang City Government Says People's School Progress Reaches 90 Percent

The Semarang city administration reports that construction of the 'Sekolah Rakyat' boarding school in Rowosari is 90 per cent complete, with an estimated finish date of 10 July 2026. The 6.5-hectare facility will accommodate 270 students from the lowest economic deciles across primary, junior, and senior high levels. Officials are addressing remaining finishing works and conducting outreach to reassure parents, particularly those of younger pupils, about the boarding arrangement.

Residents Complain About Sewage Pump at Taman Jangkar Ampenan

Residents in Ampenan, Mataram, have raised concerns over a new sewage pump installation at Taman Jangkar, fearing unpleasant odours. The Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency clarified that the facility is merely a transit pump designed to move wastewater, not a storage tank, and will be aesthetically integrated into the park. The project is part of a World Bank-funded communal wastewater treatment network worth approximately Rp 1.3 trillion.

Gontor's Centennial: GIHES 2026 to Offer Pesantren System as Solution to Global Education Crisis

Marking a century of Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor, the Global Islamic Holistic Education Summit (GIHES) will be held in Jakarta in September 2026 to address a worldwide crisis in youth mental preparedness. Organisers argue that the 24-hour holistic education model practised in Indonesian pesantren successfully cultivates character, leadership, and resilience, offering a proven alternative to Western concepts that have failed to be fully implemented. The summit aims to articulate this Islamic boarding school system for potential global adoption.

Papua Health Office focuses on early malaria detection through 'Token' Programme

The Papua Provincial Government is intensifying malaria control by strengthening early detection via the 'Token' programme, which stands for Find, Treat, and Control Risk Factors. The initiative involves mass blood surveys, indoor spraying, and environmental monitoring to curb transmission in endemic areas. Authorities are also urging cross-sector collaboration and public participation to achieve more effective malaria elimination.

KPK Suspends Detention of Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Due to Illness

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has temporarily suspended the detention of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas so he can receive hospital treatment for a digestive illness. The suspension was granted following a medical examination that recommended inpatient care, while investigators continue to probe the alleged corruption in the management of additional Hajj quotas. The case, which reportedly caused state losses of Rp622 billion, also involves several other suspects including a special staffer and travel company executives.

Japan: Collective Commitment Crucial to Resolve North Korean Abduction Issue

Japan's UN Ambassador has stressed the need for sustained international attention to resolve the abductions of Japanese, American, and Thai nationals by North Korea. The envoy highlighted that the humanitarian issue remains urgent, as victims are still deprived of their freedom decades after the abductions occurred between 1977 and 1983. A recent UN human rights report noted no progress on the matter, underscoring the need for redoubled collective efforts.

LPSK Reviews Protection Request for Confinement Victim in Bandung

Indonesia's Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is assessing a protection request for a 29-year-old woman allegedly subjected to violence and confinement in Bandung, West Java. Emergency protection has already been granted while the agency coordinates with a local hospital. Police have arrested a suspect and plan to involve psychiatric experts to evaluate his mental state during the investigation.

US Senate Passes Resolution to End War on Iran, Enraging Trump

The US Senate has passed a symbolic resolution calling for an end to hostilities against Iran, prompting a furious response from President Donald Trump. Trump denounced the vote as ill-timed and accused the four Republican senators who supported it of undermining his stance against Tehran. The resolution represents the strongest congressional rebuke of the president's war powers, despite a temporary peace deal already being in place.

UN Commission Says Israel Deliberately Targeted Children in Gaza

A United Nations commission has accused Israeli security forces of intentionally targeting Palestinian children, describing the actions as constituting genocide and war crimes. The commission's findings highlight the systematic killing, arrest, and torture of children, as well as attacks on maternity wards and schools. The report underscores the deliberate destruction of the foundations of Palestinian society in Gaza.

Deputy Minister Appreciates Jember Regency for Verifying 14,000 Deceased Social Aid Recipients

The Jember Regency Government has verified the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) and identified 14,462 deceased individuals still listed as social aid recipients. Deputy Minister of Social Affairs Agus Jabo Priyono praised the initiative, stating the accurate data is crucial for ensuring aid reaches the right targets and for the success of the President's poverty alleviation programmes.

Baznas Welcomes Strengthened Collaboration with PP Persis for Community Welfare

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has welcomed a renewed partnership with the Islamic Union (Persis) to expand community empowerment programmes. The collaboration aims to optimise zakat management to improve welfare, focusing on initiatives such as scholarships, housing, and economic empowerment. Both organisations expressed commitment to continuing their strategic cooperation, which has been in place since 2020.

Nickel Entrepreneurs Hope for More Downstream-Friendly Regulations

The head of Indonesia's Nickel Industry Forum has urged the government to create regulations that attract investment in downstream processing. He noted that while Indonesia is now the world's largest nickel producer, nearly 90% of its output is still exported as intermediate products. The push aims to capture greater added value and facilitate technology transfer through the production of finished goods.

ESDM Partners with University to Reform Gunung Botak Gold Mine Governance

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is collaborating with Pattimura University to conduct a scientific study aimed at improving the management of the Gunung Botak gold mine in Maluku. The initiative follows recent crackdowns on illegal mining operations in the area, which uncovered 16 Chinese nationals and environmental damage. The government seeks to integrate academic input to ensure the mining sector benefits local communities while minimising negative impacts.

Maximising Government Fiscal Stimulus and Special Schemes to Boost Home Sales

The Ecopolis premium residential area in CitraRaya Tangerang has launched a series of home ownership programmes valid until the end of June 2026, leveraging government tax incentives and exclusive financing schemes. The initiative, a collaboration between Ciputra Group and Japan's Mitsui Fudosan, aims to meet high demand by offering benefits such as VAT borne by the government and a zero-interest instalment plan for up to three years. The developer is also targeting the urban market with fully furnished apartment units requiring only a minimal booking fee.

KPK Displays Seized Luxury Assets from Corruption Cases, Including Branded Bags and Cars

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has exhibited a trove of seized luxury items, including 27 vehicles, designer handbags, jewellery, and gold, stemming from a graft case at the Ministry of Manpower. The agency also formally returned Rp153 billion in recovered state funds to the state-owned insurer PT Taspen, following a fictitious investment scandal.

Minister Ara Announces 40-Year Mortgage Tenor Approved as Per Presidential Directive

Minister of Housing and Settlement Maruarar Sirait has confirmed that a subsidised mortgage scheme with a tenor of up to 40 years has been approved by the Tapera Committee. The decision follows a direct directive from President Prabowo Subianto to create more affordable housing financing. The government is now focused on ensuring the scheme is implemented effectively and sustainably by the banking sector.

Students Urged to Beware of Impulse Buying and Paylater

A fintech association warns Indonesian students about the financial risks of impulse buying and paylater services amid growing digital access. The programme highlights the need for better financial literacy among the youth, who represent a significant portion of the population, to ensure future national financial health.

Danantara Strengthens State Asset Value Through SOE Performance and Dividends

Indonesia's Danantara and the BP BUMN report tangible results in transforming state asset management, with improved governance and investment strategies boosting profitability. Bank Mandiri announced a record dividend of Rp44.47 trillion, representing 79% of its 2025 net profit, underscoring the drive to enhance returns to the state. The government is pushing state-owned enterprises to balance profitability with broader economic missions, including expanding access to financing for small businesses.

Bima Drug Lord Ko Erwin to Face Trial Soon

Erwin Iskandar, known as Ko Erwin, a major drug trafficker in West Nusa Tenggara, and his courier Akhsan Al Fadhil are set to stand trial after their case files were declared complete. The suspects were transferred to the Bima District Attorney's Office on Wednesday, marking the next phase of a case that has also implicated former police officials. The investigation has uncovered a network involving a supplier and money laundering activities by the suspect's family.

UN Commission: Israel Deliberately Targets Children in Gaza

A United Nations independent commission has accused Israeli authorities of intentionally targeting Palestinian children, describing the actions as genocide and war crimes. The commission stated that attacks on maternity hospitals, postnatal centres, orphanages, and schools are destroying the future foundations of Palestinian society. It also identified specific Israeli military units responsible for the killing and wounding of Palestinian children.

Palm Oil and Coal Entrepreneurs Speak Out on Single-Door Export Policy

Indonesian business associations across the nickel, palm oil, and coal sectors have formally written to the government with six recommendations regarding the new single-door export policy through PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI). They are urging the government to avoid a one-size-fits-all approach, citing the distinct characteristics of each strategic commodity. Key concerns include the need for a clear roadmap, legal certainty for existing contracts, and assurances that the mechanism will not be perceived as monopolistic by international trade partners.

Book 'Sang Arsitek Presisi Polri' Launched, Examining National Police Chief Listyo Sigit's Leadership

A new book titled 'Sang Arsitek Presisi Polri' has been launched, analysing the leadership of Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. Authored by young NU figure Ali Ramadhan, the book explores Sigit's career trajectory, his PRESISI transformation paradigm, and the institution's role in navigating democratic disruption in the digital age. It also examines the challenges faced by the police force, including major demonstrations in 2025.

BRIN researcher calls for MBG evaluation to boost governance

A researcher from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has urged the government to evaluate the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to strengthen its governance. He argued that recent corruption cases and technical issues, such as hygiene problems in kitchens, highlight systemic planning weaknesses that must be addressed. With over 27,000 kitchens serving millions of beneficiaries, he stressed the need for a more integrated system to prevent conflicts of interest and future failures.

Mangroves and Blue Carbon: A Natural Solution to Climate Change

Students from the University of Indonesia's environmental science programme conducted a field study at the Jakarta Mangrove Resort to explore the ecological functions of mangroves, including their role in carbon sequestration and coastal protection. The event, held in conjunction with World Environment Day, highlighted Indonesia's responsibility as the country with the largest mangrove ecosystem in the world. Organisers emphasised the importance of experiential learning in fostering a new generation committed to environmental conservation and climate change mitigation.

House Commission VIII: Honorary Incentives to Improve Teacher Welfare

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII has approved a significant increase in incentives for non-civil servant madrasah teachers, raising monthly payments from Rp250,000 to up to Rp1.5 million. The additional budget allocation of Rp295.8 billion aims to support over 230,000 honorary teachers nationwide who were not appointed as contract-based government employees. The policy is part of a broader Rp41.8 trillion budget boost for the Ministry of Religious Affairs focusing on madrasah revitalisation and educational institution strengthening.

School Orientation Period Extended to Five Days, Student Councils to Be Involved

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has extended the school orientation period (MPLS) to five days for 2026, up from three days previously. The new regulation also permits the involvement of student council (OSIS) and class representative council (MPK) members in organising the programme, provided they meet strict character requirements. The changes aim to create a more inclusive and safe school environment free from bullying.

EU to Impose Customs Duties on Cheap Chinese E-Commerce Packages Starting July 2026

The European Union will introduce a €3 customs duty per item on low-value e-commerce parcels from July 2026 to protect local businesses from a surge of cheap Chinese imports. The levy targets packages under €150 and aims to level the playing field between online platforms like Temu and Shein and traditional retailers. A separate handling fee to cover increased customs supervision costs is also under negotiation.

Retail and Industry Sectors Drive Expansion of Fortified Rice Market

Indonesian retail and industry players are pushing for wider commercial distribution of fortified rice, citing strong regulatory foundations and growing production capacity. Key challenges remain in narrowing the 20-30% price gap with regular rice through distribution efficiency and consumer education. Stakeholders emphasise that smaller packaging and scaling up production are critical to making the micronutrient-enriched staple more accessible and affordable nationwide.

Trump Guarantees Iran Will Not Charge Fees for Ships Transiting Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump has stated that Iran will not impose tariffs or insurance fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, following assurances from Tehran. The announcement comes amid a 60-day negotiation period between the US and Iran covering sanctions, nuclear issues, and the strategic waterway, though it remains unclear if the guarantee extends beyond the talks.

FPPJ Discusses Strengthening Youth Role in 'Jaga Jakarta' Programme

The Jakarta Youth Care Forum (FPPJ) held a public discussion on enhancing youth participation in the 'Jaga Jakarta' programme, an initiative backed by Governor Pramono Anung to maintain social stability. The forum proposed establishing youth information posts, an anti-hoax movement, and a synergy forum to foster collaboration between the government, community, and young people. Stakeholders emphasised the need for Jakarta to learn from global cities while preserving its cultural identity as it transitions towards a global metropolis.

DePA-RI Urges Revision of Advocates Law to Strengthen Professional Quality

The Indonesian Advocates Movement Council (DePA-RI) is pushing for a comprehensive revision of the Advocates Law following a Constitutional Court ruling, aiming to enhance professional standards and public protection. The group proposes establishing a National Bar Council and a single national registration system to improve accountability and oversight. The revision is also expected to accommodate technological advancements, including artificial intelligence, to prepare the profession for the digital era.

North Sumatra Residents Rejoice as Sipiongot Road Finally Paved After Decades of Neglect

Residents of Sipiongot in North Sumatra have expressed relief and joy as the provincial government begins paving a long-neglected road connecting Padang Lawas Utara and Tapanuli Selatan. Governor Bobby Nasution has committed to completing the project by 2028, with current progress on several sections exceeding initial targets. The road is expected to improve connectivity and support equitable development in remote areas.

Ministry of Religious Affairs and DPR Hand Over Rp15.4 Billion in Disaster Aid for Aceh

The Ministry of Religious Affairs and the House of Representatives' Commission VIII have allocated Rp15.4 billion for post-disaster recovery in Aceh. The funds are earmarked for renovating damaged madrasahs and Islamic boarding schools, as well as providing scholarships for students. Officials noted this is an initial tranche, with further state budget allocations planned for reconstruction.

Bareskrim Transfers JK Video Polemic Case to Polda Metro Jaya

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has transferred a case involving politicians Grace Natalie and others over a controversial video of former Vice President Jusuf Kalla to the Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The transfer was made to consolidate investigations as a prior report concerning the same incident had already been filed with Polda Metro Jaya. The case stems from complaints by an alliance of Islamic organisations against several public figures for sharing edited clips of Kalla's lecture, which they claim sparked religious unrest.

Baznas Provides Free Healthcare Services to 2,567 Gaza Residents

Indonesia's National Alms Agency (Baznas), in partnership with Tempo Scan Group, has delivered free medical services to 2,567 Palestinians in Al Mawassi, Gaza. The programme included specialist consultations, maternal and child health services, and free medicine distribution. The initiative aims to address the severe lack of medical access caused by the prolonged humanitarian crisis in the region.

North Sumatra Residents Rejoice as Sipiongot Road Finally Paved After Decades

Residents of Sipiongot in North Sumatra have expressed joy as the provincial government begins paving a long-neglected road connecting Padang Lawas Utara and Tapanuli Selatan. The project, which has seen progress exceed initial targets, is expected to significantly improve connectivity and development in remote areas. Governor Bobby Nasution has targeted completion of the full route by 2028.

Marco Rubio Discusses US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding with UAE President

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi to discuss a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran. The talks also covered ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz and maintaining regional stability. The bilateral meeting further addressed the strong defence and trade partnership between the two nations.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Strengthens HSSE Implementation for LPG in Lampung

Pertamina Patra Niaga is intensifying health, safety, security, and environment (HSSE) inspections at LPG facilities in Lampung to ensure operational standards are met. The inspections covered filling stations and a cylinder maintenance workshop, aiming to identify risks and prevent accidents. The initiative is part of the company's commitment to safe and reliable energy distribution.

Palace Addresses Fate of Hotel Sultan Employees After Eviction

The Indonesian government has begun registering and verifying former Hotel Sultan employees following the takeover of its management from PT Indobuildco. A service post has been established to assist workers, though the Vice Minister of the State Secretariat could not yet confirm if all staff will be rehired. The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre will be responsible for facilitating their potential re-employment.

Risky, the Fresh Fish Hawker, Weaving Dreams at the People's School

A 12-year-old boy from Medan who once peddled fish to support his family has found new hope through President Prabowo's 'Sekolah Rakyat' programme. The free boarding school has transformed his life, providing education and character building after poverty nearly ended his schooling. His grandparents express profound gratitude for the initiative, which has given Risky a path to pursue his ambition of becoming a soldier.

Student Protests Erupt in Surabaya and Makassar Against Prabowo's Policies

Hundreds of students from the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PMII) staged protests in Surabaya and Makassar, criticising the central government's policies. The demonstrations turned tense as students clashed with police, demanding a cabinet evaluation, the cancellation of the free meal programme and village cooperatives, and a crackdown on illegal mining. The protests reflect growing youth discontent with President Prabowo Subianto's administration.

Certain Personality Disorders Can Lead to Cruel Behaviour, Says Psychologist

A psychologist explains that Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) can cause individuals to commit repeated acts of cruelty without remorse, viewing others merely as objects. The condition involves distinct brain structures affecting emotional processing and empathy. The explanation follows a case in Bandung where a woman was allegedly held captive and tortured by her partner for three years.

Airlangga Responds as Indonesia's Competitiveness Ranking Falls to 48th in IMD Index

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has responded to Indonesia's drop in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking from 40th to 48th place, stating the government will investigate the causes. He highlighted that Indonesia's energy sector remains attractive to investors, particularly its renewable energy potential. The IMD report cited global economic confrontation threatening energy security and stagnant growth among the nation's top five challenges.

Pertamina Balikpapan Refinery Holds Interfaith Prayer for Smooth Operations

PT Kilang Pertamina Balikpapan held an interfaith prayer event and distributed charitable aid to support the refinery's smooth operation and strengthen national energy security. The company provided Rp127 million in assistance to 250 orphans, underprivileged individuals, and people with disabilities in Balikpapan and North Penajam Paser. This initiative is part of a broader Pertamina Berkah programme that distributed a total of Rp1 billion to around 4,000 beneficiaries across eight regions and six refinery operational areas.

Indonesia-Egypt FTA Draws Closer, Set for Discussion at D-8 Meeting

Egypt's ambassador to Indonesia has indicated that a free trade agreement between the two nations is increasingly likely, with accelerated talks expected through the D-8 framework. The agreement forms part of a broader strategic partnership encompassing trade, investment, and education, which was elevated following President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Cairo. Bilateral trade, currently dominated by Indonesian palm oil exports worth approximately US$1.2 billion annually, is set to be a key focus of the negotiations.

Pandeglang Government Inspects Collapsed Inter-Village Bridge in Sumur

The Pandeglang district government has inspected a collapsed bridge in Sumur that severed connections between three villages. The bridge, already in a severely damaged state for decades, gave way after a sand truck crossed it. Authorities are currently assessing the site before deciding on repair measures.

Indonesia Named Official Partner Country for INNOPROM 2026

Indonesia has been designated the Official Partner Country for INNOPROM 2026, a major industrial exhibition in Russia, signalling a strategic push to deepen manufacturing and trade ties with Eurasia. The partnership, supported by a 1,500-square-metre national pavilion and recent bilateral agreements including the I-EAEU CEPA, aims to attract investment and expand export markets for Indonesian industrial products. This move follows high-level meetings between President Prabowo Subianto and President Vladimir Putin, and builds on growing bilateral trade and Russian investment in Indonesia.

Home Affairs Minister Tito Attends PENAS XVII Farmers and Fishermen Summit 2026 in Gorontalo

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian joined President Prabowo Subianto at the 17th National Farmers and Fishermen Week (PENAS) in Gorontalo, which drew around 50,000 participants. The event focused on technological transformation to support national food self-sufficiency. President Prabowo highlighted his historical ties with farmers and fishermen, stemming from his military service.

UI Reinforces Sustainability Commitment at THE Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026

Universitas Indonesia (UI) showcased its green innovations and international programmes at the Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026 in BSD, Tangerang. The university's Vice-Rector highlighted a paradigm shift in smart city development, emphasising governance and social equity over mere technological sophistication. The participation underscores UI's strategic role in addressing global sustainability challenges through cross-sector collaboration.

Hotman Claims 'Person Close to Solo' Asked for Removal of Roy Suryo-Tifa Video

Senior lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea alleges that an individual close to the Solo political circle requested he delete a video urging authorities not to detain Roy Suryo and Dr Tifa. Hotman claimed his appeal to the National Police Chief and Attorney General was based on maintaining national stability and economic growth. The South Jakarta Prosecutor's Office later granted a suspension of detention for the two suspects.

Investment Ministry Reveals Biggest Challenge to Investment in Indonesia

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Investment has identified the country's high Incremental Capital Output Ratio (ICOR) as the primary obstacle to attracting investment. The current ICOR, ranging between 6.3 and 6.5, indicates that a large amount of capital is required to generate economic output, making Indonesia less efficient compared to other nations. The government is implementing strategies including promotional efforts and the establishment of the Danantara sovereign wealth fund to lower this ratio and accelerate project execution.

Former Hotel Sultan to Be Demolished, Inventory Already Being Moved

The former Hotel Sultan in Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno complex is being emptied as its movable assets are transferred to a warehouse in Cikarang. The government, through Danantara and Injourney, plans to demolish the building and redevelop the entire GBK area into a new national icon.

Aceh Government Prepares DED for Peusangan Selatan Bridge Reconstruction

The Aceh provincial government is advancing the reconstruction of the Peusangan Selatan Bridge in Bireuen by preparing its Detailed Engineering Design (DED). The bridge was one of 13 damaged during the November 2025 Sumatra hydrometeorological disaster, and its collapse has severely disrupted local mobility, education, and economic activity. The initiative follows field evaluations by the national disaster rehabilitation task force and is part of a broader phased recovery plan.

UGM Student Union Says Bribery Allegation Against BEM FH UBK is a Warning for Student Movement

The UGM Student Union has described the alleged bribery of a Bung Karno University student leader as a serious warning for the student movement, calling it an attempt to divide and weaken activism. The case involves an alumnus allegedly offering Rp20 million via police to relocate a planned demonstration away from the State Palace. The university has since suspended the student union head and launched an investigation.

Banten Governor Mandates ASN Report Vehicle Tax Payments to BKD, Prohibits Arrears

Banten Governor Andra Soni has issued a circular requiring all provincial civil servants (ASN) to report their vehicle tax payment status to the Regional Personnel Agency (BKD) and forbidding any tax arrears. The policy aims to enforce tax compliance among government employees as a model for the public, with department heads responsible for monitoring their staff. The Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) will periodically cross-check ASN data with vehicle tax records to ensure adherence.

Ministry of Social Affairs Distributes Rehabilitation Assistance in West Pasaman

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs has distributed social rehabilitation assistance (Atensi) to 441 beneficiaries in West Pasaman Regency. The aid includes nutrition packages, accessibility tools, and entrepreneurial support, targeting low-income families. The ministry also announced plans to build a specialised school for underprivileged children in the area.

Tackling Hidden Hunger: Rice Fortification Seen as a Solution

Indonesia faces a 'silent emergency' of hidden hunger driven by chronic iron deficiency, leading to rising anaemia rates. Public health experts argue that fortifying rice—a staple consumed by 95 per cent of the population—is the most cost-effective strategic intervention, adding only about Rp 1,000 per kilogram to production costs.

Social Affairs Ministry and TNI Collaborate: 1,000 Military Academy Cadets to Train Sekolah Rakyat Students

The Ministry of Social Affairs and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are joining forces to instil discipline in students of Sekolah Rakyat, a government-run school programme. Approximately 1,000 cadets from the Military Academy will be deployed to 178 schools to provide character-building training. The programme, set to begin in early August 2026, will focus on practical life skills such as uniform ironing and maintaining tidy living quarters.

DKI Jakarta Wins Best Region Award at Cita Loka Festival 2026

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has been awarded Best Region at the Cita Loka Festival 2026 for its responsive governance. The administration resolved 98% of over 305,000 citizen reports through its CRM system between January 2025 and May 2026. Governor Pramono Anung emphasised that listening to residents is key to the city's transformation into a safe, comfortable, and inclusive global city.

Clean Water Network Built in Banjarsari Hamlet to Face Dry Season

A new borehole and water distribution network has been completed in Banjarsari Hamlet, South Lampung, providing 122 residents with reliable access to clean water. The project, a collaboration between PT Pembiayaan Digital Indonesia (AdaKami) and digital donation platform BenihBaik.com, aims to alleviate chronic water shortages that worsen during the dry season. The initiative is expected to improve daily life, support religious activities, and enhance long-term community health.

Book Reveals Police Role in Boosting National Corn Production and Food Sovereignty

A new book titled 'Mengawal Pangan Menuai Aman' highlights the Indonesian National Police's (Polri) significant yet lesser-known role in supporting national food security. Professor Masdar Hilmy of UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya praised the book for documenting how police assistance and oversight helped farmers increase corn production, leading Indonesia to cease imports and begin exporting. The book aims to educate the public on Polri's broader contributions beyond conventional law enforcement.

French National Faces Three-Year Prison Sentence for 0.27 Grams of Meth in Mataram

Prosecutors in Mataram, Lombok, have demanded a three-year prison sentence for a French citizen, Ludovic Roche, for possessing 0.27 grams of methamphetamine. Roche was arrested alongside a local fisherman in North Lombok, though his urine test returned negative for the substance. The defendant's legal team plans to submit a written plea in response to the charges.

Indonesia Eyes Bali as Site for Global Financial Centre to Rival Singapore and Dubai

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartanto has announced that Bali is the provisional location for Indonesia's planned International Financial Centre (IFC), designed to compete with hubs like Singapore and Dubai. The centre will be situated within Special Economic Zones such as Kura Kura and Sanur, with the possibility of a third site. The initiative aims to attract massive foreign investment by offering competitive regulations and tax incentives potentially as low as zero per cent.

UMKM Perikanan Kaltara Terkendala OSS dan KBLI untuk Tembus Ekspor

Pelaku usaha mikro dan kecil (UMKM) sektor perikanan di Kalimantan Utara menghadapi kendala serius dalam menembus pasar ekspor akibat permasalahan perizinan melalui sistem OSS dan ketidaksesuaian Klasifikasi Baku Lapangan Usaha Indonesia (KBLI). Dinas Penanaman Modal dan Pelayanan Terpadu Satu Pintu (DPMPTSP) Kaltara menggelar diskusi kelompok terarah untuk mengidentifikasi hambatan tersebut dan mencari solusi agar produk perikanan lokal dapat bersaing di pasar global. Upaya ini diharapkan dapat mendorong pertumbuhan ekonomi daerah melalui peningkatan ekspor komoditas unggulan.

Foreign Ministry Promotes Makassar to 28 Nations, Targeting Trade and Investment Cooperation

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is promoting Makassar as a strategic global partner to 28 countries, highlighting its potential in maritime economy, agriculture, and infrastructure. The initiative, part of the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series, aims to facilitate business matching and attract foreign investment into the region. The ministry has pledged to leverage its network of 131 embassies and consulates to support ongoing partnership exploration.

Investment Ministry Reveals Biggest Challenge to Investment in Indonesia

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Investment and Hilirisasi, Todotua Pasaribu, has identified the country's high Incremental Capital Output Ratio (ICOR) as the primary obstacle to attracting investment. The current ICOR, ranging between 6.3 and 6.5, indicates low efficiency, meaning more capital is required to generate economic output compared to other nations. The government is pursuing strategies to lower this ratio, including promoting ready-to-offer projects and leveraging the Danantara sovereign wealth fund to accelerate downstreaming initiatives.

Ombudsman submits 203 service improvement studies to public agencies

The Indonesian Ombudsman has delivered 203 systemic studies and recommendations to public service providers between 2021 and 2025, aiming to prevent maladministration. The reports were compiled by the central office and 34 provincial branches, covering issues from pandemic border control to housing loans and human trafficking. Officials stressed that the findings should guide policy-making and measurable follow-up actions.

SoftBank CEO outlines four pillars to drive AI expansion

SoftBank Group Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son has identified four key focus areas—AI models, chips, infrastructure, and robotics—as the company accelerates its artificial intelligence expansion. Speaking at the annual shareholders' meeting in Tokyo, Son dismissed concerns about an AI bubble, comparing the current phase to the early days of the internet. He also signalled his intention to lead the company for another 10 to 15 years to realise his AI ambitions.

Blora Regency Government Guarantees Full Scholarship for Child of Suicide Victim

The Blora Regency administration has pledged to provide a scholarship to the child of a mother who died by suicide, reportedly due to economic pressures over school fees. The local government aims to ensure the child's education continues at least through senior high school, and potentially to university level. Officials have urged residents facing financial hardship to seek assistance from the authorities to prevent similar tragedies.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Strengthens Transparency and Sustainability Commitment with Consecutive Gold Awards

Indonesia's BPJS Ketenagakerjaan has secured the Gold Award at the Australasian Reporting Awards (ARA) 2026 for the second consecutive year. The award recognises the quality of its 2024 Annual Integrated Report, which meets international standards in transparency, governance, and sustainability. The institution highlighted this achievement as proof of its commitment to accountable management and long-term value creation for stakeholders.

Prosecutors Name Former Public Works Officials as Suspects in Rp 2 Billion Bribery Case

The Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office has named three new suspects, including a former acting director at the Ministry of Public Works, in a bribery and fictitious project scandal spanning 2023-2025. The suspects allegedly extorted and received over Rp 2 billion in cash from state-owned and private contractors, while a separate scheme involving fake projects at another directorate caused state losses exceeding Rp 16 billion. All three have been detained as investigators continue tracing assets and examining other potential accomplices.

Mardiono Urges PPP Women to Contribute to Electoral Work and Public Service

United Development Party (PPP) Chairman Muhamad Mardiono has called on the party's women's wing to reactivate and play a strategic role in strengthening electoral efforts and community service. The directive was given during a meeting with the Wanita Persatuan Pembangunan (WPP) leadership, emphasising alignment with party policy ahead of the 2029 elections. WPP Chairwoman Arimbi Soeharto Alamsjah affirmed the organisation's readiness to synergise with the central board to expand the party's reach through empowerment programmes.

Pramono Summons App Companies to Discuss Ojol Parking Arrangements in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung plans to summon ride-hailing app management to jointly address the persistent issue of motorcycle taxi (ojol) drivers parking on pavements and roadsides. He argues the problem cannot be solved by the city administration alone and requires cooperation from the companies. The initiative is part of a broader city-wide effort to regulate parking, including at shopping centres and public spaces.

Why North Korea Is Relentlessly Building Nuclear Weapons Despite No Imminent War

North Korea is accelerating its nuclear weapons expansion, embedding the programme in its constitution and diversifying delivery systems to ensure survivability. Analysts suggest Pyongyang views a large, dispersed arsenal as the only effective deterrent against perceived threats from the US and its allies, a stance reinforced by recent military action against Iran. The strategy appears designed to make denuclearisation through diplomacy or military strikes practically impossible.

Ex-Israeli PM Reveals Cunning Tactic to Destroy Iran from Within

Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has disclosed that Israel smuggled thousands of Starlink satellite internet devices into Iran to aid anti-government protesters. Bennett claimed the operation was intended to help demonstrators coordinate and ultimately overthrow the Iranian regime, but criticised the current government under Benjamin Netanyahu for failing to maintain the infrastructure when protests erupted. The revelation confirms longstanding Iranian accusations of foreign interference aimed at weakening its internal security.

Singapore Think Tank Warns of High Risk of Severe Transboundary Haze

The Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA) has issued a 'Red' risk rating for severe transboundary haze in Southeast Asia for the remainder of 2026, with the peak danger period in August and September. The heightened risk is attributed to the expected return of El Niño and a positive Indian Ocean Dipole, which could create hotter and drier conditions conducive to forest and land fires. The report also highlights economic pressures, such as increased demand for agricultural commodities, that may incentivise land clearing.

Qodari Expresses Gratitude for Condolences on His Father's Passing

Head of the Government Communication Body (Bakom) RI, Muhammad Qodari, has thanked Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and other officials for attending the funeral of his father, H Sulaiman Said, in Depok. The Vice President's presence was seen as a gesture of respect from the government. H Sulaiman Said passed away on Tuesday at the age of 79 after his health suddenly deteriorated.

Former Boss of Taufik Hidayat Asks KDM's Bounty Money to Be Given to Victims

Dadang Ahyar Ismail, the former employer of fugitive Taufik Hidayat, has requested that the Rp 250 million bounty offered by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi be handed directly to the victims. Ismail, who persuaded Hidayat to surrender before his arrest in Majalaya, stated the victims are in greater need of the funds.

Ambon's Kodaeral IX Conducts Combat Drill on KRI Dorang to Ensure Readiness

The Maritime Regional Command (Kodaeral) IX in Ambon has facilitated a combat drill aboard the KRI Dorang-874 to sharpen the warfighting skills and professionalism of its personnel. The exercise, part of the Navy's 2026 Professional Month, focused on tactical procedures and crew coordination for maritime operations. The commander emphasised that such continuous training is vital for maintaining security and upholding Indonesia's sovereignty at sea.

AGO and Forest Area Task Force Recover Rp379.2 Trillion in State Funds and Assets

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office and the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force have recovered state funds and assets totalling Rp379.2 trillion. The recovery stems from forest area enforcement, corruption case settlements, and administrative fines, including the repossession of over 5.8 million hectares of oil palm plantation land. Significant payments were received from major palm oil groups and the tin commodity sector, with further potential fines of Rp40.3 trillion still outstanding.

China Tightens Oversight on Strategic Mineral Exports

China's Ministry of Commerce has announced new measures to enhance public supervision of strategic mineral and dual-use goods exports. The rules, effective from 1 July, allow any organisation or individual to report suspected violations, including illegal technology transfers. Verified reports may be rewarded, while false or malicious claims will face sanctions.

Psychologist outlines factors that can trigger violent behaviour

A psychologist explains that family background, parenting styles, and social environment are key factors that can trigger violent behaviour. She highlights the 'cycle of violence', where children raised with harsh discipline may normalise aggression, and notes that unresolved childhood trauma can lead victims to become perpetrators. Support systems, education, and professional help are crucial to breaking this cycle.

Badung Regent Inaugurates 156 Officials, Including Three New District Chiefs

Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa has inaugurated 156 officials in a major bureaucratic reshuffle aimed at strengthening local governance. The appointments include three new district chiefs for Kuta Utara, Kuta, and Kuta Selatan, as well as a new head of the Fire and Rescue Service. The regent emphasised that the refresh is part of talent management and career development for civil servants to address strategic challenges such as traffic congestion, waste management, and public service innovation.

ECB Official Says Middle East Crisis Weighs on Eurozone Growth

A senior European Central Bank official has warned that the Middle East conflict is increasing uncertainty and dampening economic growth in the eurozone. Philip Lane, ECB Executive Board member, highlighted that the war is weighing on confidence and domestic demand, while keeping energy costs elevated. The ECB projects inflation will remain above its 2% target until the first half of 2027.

Indonesia, South Korea seek closer counterterrorism partnership

Indonesia's BNPT and South Korea's NCTC have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen coordination and knowledge exchange in counterterrorism efforts. The agreement aims to foster concrete, adaptive, and sustainable collaboration between the two nations. Both sides emphasised that maintaining peace requires collective international vigilance despite a recent decline in terror cases.

Digital Funding Drives Entertainment Industry Transformation, Local Filmmakers Gain Wider Access

Indonesia's creative industry is attracting global investor attention, with blockchain-based entertainment company Show Token entering the market with a US$100 million commitment. The firm will partner with local production houses MVP and A&Z Films to fund over 20 collaborative film projects, starting with four titles. The initiative aims to modernise film financing through Web3 technology, offering transparent smart contracts for budgeting and royalty distribution while expanding access for local talent.

Former Hotel Sultan Assets Moved to Warehouses, Clearance Targeted for Completion in One Month

The eviction and removal of assets from the former Hotel Sultan in Jakarta's Blok 15 continues, with items being transferred to two warehouses in Cikarang, Bekasi. The process, which began on 18 June 2026, is expected to be completed within a month, after which a report will be submitted to the government. The stored goods will be held for six months, with the former operator PT Indobuildco able to reclaim them through coordination with the State Secretariat Ministry and the courts.

BRIN Research: Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Concentrated in Java, Scarce in Impoverished Regions

Research by Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) reveals that the distribution of free nutritious meal (MBG) kitchens is heavily concentrated in Java and western Indonesia, following population density rather than need. The study found that areas with high poverty, stunting, and food vulnerability have very few kitchens. BRIN recommends reforming the funding scheme, using the state budget for disadvantaged regions and developing mobile kitchen models for remote areas.

Telkom Posts Rp 146.7 Trillion Revenue in 2025, House Commission VI Urges Management Unity

PT Telkom Indonesia reported a revenue of Rp 146.7 trillion and an operating profit of Rp 72.2 trillion for 2025, though net profit was impacted by strategic asset depreciation and an early retirement programme. House Commission VI member Khilmi praised the performance and urged the board of directors to remain cohesive to drive future improvements. The state-owned enterprise also reported first-quarter 2026 revenue of Rp 37.2 trillion, up 1.5% year-on-year.

Jakarta High Prosecutor Names PU Ministry Director and Officials as Corruption Suspects

The Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office has named a former acting director of irrigation and swamps at the Ministry of Public Works and two other officials as suspects in a corruption case involving projects from 2023 to 2025. The suspects are accused of extortion, bribery, and gratuities totalling over Rp2 billion, as well as orchestrating fictitious projects that caused state losses exceeding Rp16 billion. All three have been detained while investigators continue to trace assets and examine other potential parties involved.

Wamendagri Bima Arya Urges Civil Servants to Prioritise Public Impact Over Output Targets

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on Indonesia's civil servants to shift their focus from merely achieving administrative targets to ensuring government programmes deliver tangible benefits to citizens. Speaking at a design thinking training event, he stressed the need for empathy, innovation, and data-driven policy to bridge the gap between development visions and on-the-ground realities, particularly in meeting Minimum Service Standards for education and health.

Like a Labyrinth! Scenes of Residents Walking Through Makeshift Corridor in the Heart of Jakarta

An emergency pedestrian walkway at the Bundaran HI MRT development site in Central Jakarta has drawn public attention for its labyrinth-like garden decor. While some residents appreciate the unique aesthetic, others have complained about the narrowed path. The temporary structure is part of a major expansion project aiming to transform the station into a 4,000-square-metre underground multifunctional area by mid-2027.

Education Ministry Extends MPLS to Five Days, Involves Student Council Members

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has revised the school orientation programme (MPLS) for new students, extending its duration from three to five days. The new regulation also allows the involvement of student council (OSIS) members in junior and senior high schools, provided they meet strict character and conduct requirements. The changes are formalised in Permendikdasmen Number 12 of 2026.

Indonesia foils drug smuggling bound for Bali

Indonesian customs and the National Narcotics Agency have intercepted over 18 kilograms of marijuana and hashish destined for Bali, arresting several foreign nationals, including Russian citizens, suspected of involvement in an international drug trafficking network. The seizures occurred at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in March and June 2026, with the drugs concealed in luggage and a false-bottomed suitcase. The suspects face severe penalties under Indonesia's 2009 Narcotics Law, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.

OJK: General Insurance Investment Performance Positive Amid Dynamic Market

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports that the general insurance industry's investment yield improved in April 2026, with conventional and sharia segments both recording gains. The regulator highlighted the sector's resilience amid market volatility and stressed the importance of balancing investment returns with robust risk management.

MAPI to Bring Ace Hardware Back to Indonesia, First Store to Open July-August 2026

PT Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk (MAPI) plans to reintroduce the Ace Hardware brand to Indonesia after the previous partnership with Kawan Lama Group ended. The first store is slated to open in the Jabodetabek area by late July or early August 2026, with an initial target of five to seven outlets. Analysts view the move as strategically filling a gap in MAPI's portfolio, though they note the challenge of competing against the former licence holder's established market presence.

Pegadaian Supports 2,000 Trees Programme in East Kalimantan for Sustainable Environment

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has participated in the '2,000 Trees for East Kalimantan' programme in Samarinda, reinforcing its commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The initiative involved collaboration between government, businesses, communities, and youth groups to enhance environmental quality. Pegadaian hopes this tree-planting movement will inspire broader collective action for long-term ecological sustainability.

Pertamina Posts Positive 2025 Performance, Strengthens Energy Security and Accelerates Energy Transition

PT Pertamina reported a net profit of USD 3.35 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, underpinned by robust upstream production and improved refinery yields. The state-owned energy company contributed Rp 360.76 trillion to the state and advanced its decarbonisation efforts, cutting 2.27 million tonnes of CO₂e. The results highlight Pertamina's dual focus on maintaining national energy security while accelerating its transition to new and renewable energy.

Drought in Cilacap Worsens, Thousands of Residents Face Clean Water Crisis

The drought crisis in Cilacap Regency, Central Java, is expanding, with the local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) reporting two additional villages affected. Over 7,000 residents across the new locations are now experiencing severe clean water shortages. Authorities are conducting assessments and coordinating aid distribution as the dry season intensifies.

SPPI KNMP Participant Dies During Basic Military Training, Defence Ministry Evaluates Health Supervision

The Indonesian Defence Ministry has confirmed the death of Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, a participant in the SPPI KNMP 2026 programme, during basic military training in Jakarta. The ministry stated the cause was related to tuberculosis and expressed condolences, while pledging to evaluate and strengthen health supervision for all participants. This incident marks the third death among SPPI trainees, following fatalities attributed to heat stroke and cardiac arrest in other training locations.

DPR Commission XI strives to prevent reduction in regional transfers to sustain development

The House of Representatives (DPR) Commission XI is working to ensure that the amount of Transfer to Regions (TKD) funds is not reduced, viewing it as crucial for continued regional development. Chairman Mukhamad Misbakhun stated that discussions are ongoing with the Budget Agency and the government to formulate new fiscal strategies, as the indicative TKD allocation for the 2026 state budget is currently lower than in 2025. The DPR aims to balance the government's new fiscal approach with the need to protect regional rights and public access to development benefits.

What Did Purbaya Say About the Finance Ministry Owning IDX Shares?

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudi Sadewa stated that the Ministry of Finance has no immediate plans to acquire shares in the Indonesia Stock Exchange, despite a newly revised P2SK Law permitting it. The law, passed in June 2026, demutualises the IDX and allows the Ministry, Bank Indonesia, and sovereign wealth fund Danantara to become shareholders while maintaining the exchange's independence. This marks a significant shift in the ownership structure of the Indonesian stock market operator.

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Warns of Calorie Content in Mayonnaise and Mentai Sauce

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has cautioned the public about the high calorie content in popular condiments like mayonnaise and mentai sauce. He highlighted that a single tablespoon of mayonnaise contains around 100 calories, equivalent to a piece of fried street food, and can double the calorie count of seemingly healthy dishes like dim sum. The minister advised moderation rather than complete avoidance of favourite foods.

Gerindra Faction Welcomes Jokowi's Proposal for Prabowo-Gibran to Serve Two Terms

The Gerindra Party faction in the Indonesian House of Representatives has expressed gratitude for former President Joko Widodo's support for the Prabowo-Gibran administration to continue for a second term. Jokowi has reportedly instructed the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) and his volunteer network to safeguard the government's continuity until 2034. The endorsement signals a strategic alignment between the former president and the current ruling coalition ahead of the 2029 elections.

KuCoin Pay Bridges Digital Assets with Local Banking and Transfer Networks in Rapidly Growing Markets

KuCoin Pay is expanding its crypto payment solution to connect digital assets with local financial infrastructures in Bangladesh, Mexico, and Zambia. The integration links to services like bKash, SPEI, and MTN mobile money, simplifying the use of cryptocurrencies for everyday transactions. This move aims to make digital assets more practical and inclusive in emerging markets.

Finex Achieves A+++ Rating for Eighth Consecutive Time from Bappebti

Indonesian futures broker PT Finex Bisnis Solusi Futures has secured an A+++ rating for the eighth consecutive period from the Commodity Futures Trading Regulatory Agency (Bappebti). The rating reflects consistent performance in governance, compliance, and customer protection. The company's CEO emphasised the importance of transparency and investor education in building trust within the growing futures trading market.

Indonesia declares commitment to energy transition at GETES 2026 forum

Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to balancing economic growth with energy transition and environmental protection at the Global Electrification and Transition Energy Summit (GETES) 2026 in London. Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat stressed the importance of responsible development that adheres to strict environmental standards. The country's position aligns with UN calls for a just and inclusive global energy transition.

Governor Pramono to Summon Ride-Hailing Firms to Discuss Ojol Parking Arrangements

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo plans to summon ride-hailing company management to jointly address the issue of online motorcycle taxi (ojol) parking, arguing the problem cannot be solved by the city government alone. The administration is preparing a comprehensive parking arrangement, including potential designated waiting areas for drivers, as part of a broader effort to regulate parking across shopping centres, office buildings, and public spaces. Pramono noted that consistent enforcement, such as that seen in Blok M, has already yielded visible improvements despite public criticism.

LPSK Verifies Sony Sonjaya's Justice Collaborator Application Documents

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is currently verifying documents submitted by former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, who is seeking justice collaborator status in a corruption case. His application to the Attorney General's Office was previously rejected because he was deemed a main perpetrator who had not admitted his actions. LPSK has 30 working days to review the application once it is declared complete.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Holds Interfaith Prayer for Balikpapan Refinery Operations

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga organised an interfaith prayer gathering at the Balikpapan refinery to seek smooth operations and worker safety. The event also included the distribution of Rp127 million in charitable aid to orphans, underprivileged families, and disabled communities in the Balikpapan and Penajam Paser Utara areas. The initiative is part of the broader 'Pertamina Berkah' programme, which disbursed a total of Rp1 billion across multiple regions.

Government Spokespersons Urged to Be Responsive and Humanistic in Digital Sphere

Government spokespersons in Indonesia are being urged to adapt to the complexities of digital media by communicating with consistency, empathy, and responsiveness. During a technical guidance event in Bandung, experts highlighted the need for clear, simplified messaging to maintain public trust amid shifting information consumption patterns, where a majority now access news via social media and video platforms. The initiative aims to strengthen public communication and ensure policy information is accurately conveyed in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

School holidays: BRIN researcher urges public to remain active in monitoring free nutritious meal programme

A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has called on the public to maintain oversight of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during the school holidays. He views the break as a valuable opportunity to evaluate the programme's infrastructure and governance. The researcher also praised citizens' creative online criticism and urged the government to provide a public dashboard for transparent budget tracking.

How Does the Quran View Same-Sex Relations? Consider These Eight Verses

The Quran explicitly condemns same-sex relations, particularly through the story of the Prophet Lut's people, describing the act as abominable, transgressive, and ignorant. The verses cited highlight that this behaviour was unprecedented and led to divine punishment, framing it as a violation of the natural order created by God. The article presents a theological perspective on homosexuality within Islam, referencing specific Quranic verses.

Central Papua allocates Rp77.8 bln for free education

Central Papua has become the first province in the Papua region to allocate a large-scale free education budget, dedicating Rp77.8 billion to fund 58,920 students and school dormitories. The initiative aims to eliminate economic barriers to schooling and reduce dropout rates. The provincial government is also investing in teacher quality by targeting the certification of 1,000 teachers annually over the next two years, alongside providing additional welfare incentives.

Bontang to Brisbane: How Indonesia's fertilizer secures Aussie crops

Indonesia has shipped 47,250 metric tons of urea from Bontang to Brisbane under a new government-to-government agreement, marking a strategic shift in bilateral trade relations. The deal, which commits Indonesia to supplying 250,000 tons of urea, helps Australia mitigate supply chain risks from geopolitical tensions while Indonesia utilises surplus production after prioritising domestic needs. This symbiotic trade reinforces regional food security, with Australian crops fertilised by Indonesian urea ultimately returning to Indonesian markets as processed food and wheat.

Behind the Iran War, This 'Crunchy' Commodity Suddenly Reaps a Windfall

Disruption to Iranian pistachio exports through the Strait of Hormuz due to conflict has driven global prices to a decade high, unexpectedly benefiting Californian farmers who now dominate the market. The price surge, also fuelled by the viral popularity of Dubai chocolate, is likely temporary as Iranian supply could recover if peace holds. Meanwhile, Californian producers face their own challenges from extreme weather and water restrictions.

7 Key Facts about POOSI, the National Organisation for Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers

POOSI (Paguyuban Ojek Online Seluruh Indonesia) serves as a formal national body representing online motorcycle taxi drivers across Indonesia. The organisation focuses on advocating for fair regulations, tariffs, and platform policies while providing education and training to improve driver welfare and competence. It operates on principles of solidarity, advocacy, transparency, and national spirit to build a more equitable and sustainable ecosystem for its members.

Electric vehicles overtake petrol cars in Europe for the first time

Battery-electric vehicles have surpassed pure petrol cars in market share across Europe, including the UK and EFTA countries, driven by surging demand and a strong performance from Chinese brands. Overall registrations of new petrol cars fell sharply, while Tesla and Chinese manufacturers like BYD posted significant gains.

Danantara Strengthens Risk Management to Maintain Investor Confidence

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara is reinforcing its risk management framework by separating asset management and investment functions to protect state-owned enterprises. CEO Rosan Roeslani highlighted strong global investor confidence, evidenced by a recent US dollar bond issuance that was oversubscribed by more than three times.

Daycare Little Aresha Yogyakarta Case Now in the Hands of the Prosecutor's Office

The criminal case of child abuse at the Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta has been declared complete and handed over to the prosecutor's office. Thirteen suspects, including caregivers, the head teacher, and the foundation chairman, face charges under the Child Protection Law, with management also facing additional regulations. The case involves 103 child victims and a team of public prosecutors has been formed to prepare the indictment.

BRI Life Supports Ministry of SMEs with Insurance Education at UMKM Fun Run 5K

BRI Life participated in the UMKM Fun Run 5K in Jakarta to promote healthy lifestyles and enhance financial literacy among small business actors. The state-owned insurer provided an activation booth offering consultations and digital insurance products like MODI. The initiative aligns with the company's commitment to strengthening the national SME ecosystem and expanding insurance inclusion.

Kadin Highlights Land Disputes and Investment Certainty in Industrial Zone Bill

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has raised concerns that overlapping land permits and regulations are the main obstacles to industrial zone expansion and legal certainty. Kadin's Deputy Chairman noted that these overlaps often lead to disputes over land conversion, particularly involving protected rice fields, undermining investor confidence. The chamber also urged the government to include provisions in the new Industrial Zone Bill for granting longer, non-staged building rights (HGB) to improve Indonesia's investment competitiveness against regional rivals like Vietnam and Thailand.

Dr Tifa's First Trial Set for 2 July, Roy Suryo Awaits Pretrial Ruling

The East Jakarta District Court has scheduled the first hearing for defendant Tifauzia Tyassuma on 2 July 2026 in a defamation case involving President Jokowi's diploma. Meanwhile, co-defendant Roy Suryo's trial is pending the outcome of his pretrial motion filed at the South Jakarta District Court, which challenges his arrest and search procedures.

China's Autonomous Regions Record Significant Economic Growth

China's five provincial-level autonomous regions have seen their combined GDP more than double from 3.25 trillion yuan in 2012 to 8.66 trillion yuan in 2025. The figures were released by a senior official from the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee. The regions include Inner Mongolia, Guangxi, Xizang, Ningxia, and Xinjiang.

PP 20/2026 Demonstrates Government's Support for Micro and Small Enterprises

The Indonesian government has issued PP 20/2026, which removes the time limit for micro and small enterprises with turnover below Rp4.8 billion to utilise the 0.5% final income tax rate. This regulation also maintains a 0% tax rate for businesses with annual turnover up to Rp500 million, reinforcing fiscal support for the smallest enterprises.

Suspected Perpetrator of Sexual Abuse Against Stepchild Detained in Batanghari

A 51-year-old man has been detained in Batanghari Regency, Jambi, after being accused of sexually abusing his stepdaughter. The allegations surfaced when the victim disclosed the abuse to relatives, prompting the village chief to intervene and prevent mob justice. The suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation.

11,000 Seafarers Stranded in Persian Gulf to Be Evacuated

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has announced a large-scale evacuation of over 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf, in cooperation with Iran, Oman, the United States, and other coastal states. The operation follows a recent US-Iran memorandum aimed at ending military conflict and lifting naval blockades, restoring safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz. The IMO has provided necessary security guarantees, expressing confidence that conditions now allow vessels to transit safely.

Lovina Beach Gets a Facelift, Redevelopment Progress Reaches 92%

The redevelopment of Lovina Beach in North Bali is nearly complete, with progress reaching 92%. The project includes a 651-metre pedestrian path and 34 new lighting points, aimed at enhancing safety and comfort for visitors. Local officials and tourism operators hope the upgraded facilities will boost the destination's competitiveness and drive economic growth in Buleleng.

Smartphone Photography Training: BULOG's PR Strategy in the Digital Era

Perum BULOG, Indonesia's state logistics agency, partnered with ANTARA news agency to conduct smartphone photography training for its public relations staff. The initiative aims to enhance visual communication skills, enabling BULOG to build public trust and effectively narrate its contributions to national food security. The training focuses on transforming everyday images into powerful storytelling tools to strengthen the institution's reputation.

Defence Ministry confirms death of prospective KNMP manager during basic military training

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of a third participant in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangun Indonesia (SPPI) programme during basic military training. Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, a prospective manager for the Koperasi Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP), died from tuberculosis-related health complications despite receiving intensive medical care. The ministry has pledged to evaluate the training system and strengthen health supervision following the fatalities.

Hilman Latief Tight-Lipped After KPK Questioning in Hajj Quota Case

Former Director General of Hajj and Umrah, Hilman Latief, remained reticent following his second questioning by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding the alleged misappropriation of additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The KPK is investigating the division of 20,000 extra quotas, which was split 50:50 between special and regular hajj, contravening the statutory 8% limit for special hajj. The case, which has already named former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas as a suspect, is estimated to have caused state losses of IDR 622 billion.

Terrifying Moment Iron Fence Falls from Tomang Flyover After Trailer Truck Accident

A trailer truck carrying wire mesh fencing overturned on the Jakarta-Tangerang Toll Road's Tomang Flyover, causing its load to spill onto the road below. The incident led to severe traffic congestion and a temporary closure of the Tomang Toll Gate heading towards Priok and Cawang. Authorities have since completed the evacuation and reopened the affected lanes.

Hopes for UK's Return to EU Likely to Be Unrequited

A British politics expert suggests the European Union is unlikely to welcome a UK attempt to rejoin under a new Labour government, citing Britain's historically difficult membership and Brussels' own internal challenges. The analysis follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer's announcement of his resignation as Labour Party leader, amid political turmoil and pressure from within his party.

Jakarta Government Plans to Build 11 Large-Capacity Flats in 2027

The Jakarta provincial government has announced plans to construct 11 large-capacity public housing blocks (rusun) in 2027. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo stated the decision was approved during budget discussions as a response to limited land availability and rising landed house prices. The flats will be offered transparently for both ownership and rental to address the capital's housing needs.

Untar's Communication Faculty Turns 20, Rector Stresses University's Role in Strengthening Digital Literacy

Universitas Tarumanagara's Faculty of Communication marked its 20th anniversary with a call for higher education to play a greater role in bolstering public digital literacy. The rector highlighted the need for critical information filtering amidst rising misinformation and disinformation. The faculty aims to produce graduates who are not only competent but also empathetic and socially impactful.

West Java Offers 46 Strategic Projects, Targets Malaysian Investment

The West Java provincial government is preparing 46 strategic projects and 44 ready-to-use industrial estates to attract investors at the Selangor International Business Summit 2026. The initiative aims to secure up to Rp50 trillion in investment from Malaysia, with officials highlighting streamlined digital licensing and anti-corruption measures to reassure global businesses. Sectors targeted include aerospace, renewable energy, infrastructure, and downstream industries.

Resembling Humans in the Womb, a Baby of Another Species Is Born

Researchers have reconstructed the prenatal growth patterns of a Neanderthal infant from 50,000 to 60,000 years ago, revealing striking similarities to modern human foetal development. Analysis of bone fragments from a German cave indicates the baby's microanatomy aligns with a late-term modern human pregnancy. The study also uncovered evidence of metabolic bone disease in other Neanderthal children at the site, marking the earliest known instance of such conditions in non-modern humans.

Amstrong Sembiring Asks Government to Consider Deponering Over Suspension of Detention for Roy Suryo and Dr Tifa

Legal expert JJ Amstrong Sembiring has urged the Indonesian government to consider using its deponering authority to drop the cases against Roy Suryo and Dr Tifa, arguing it could serve national interest and political reconciliation better than a mere suspension of detention. He cautioned that while deponering could reduce public polarisation, it must be applied carefully based on public interest and justice, not political pressure. The core question, he stated, is whether the cases meet the strong public interest criteria to be set aside.

MBG, School Holidays, and the Importance of Risk Management

The temporary suspension of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during school holidays has sparked complaints from partner businesses over financial losses. This article argues that while the government must improve communication and governance, participating entrepreneurs also need to adopt robust risk management strategies, recognising that public programmes are subject to policy changes and should not be treated as risk-free ventures.

Qatar Signals Gulf States Ready to Provide US$300 Billion for Iran

Qatar's Prime Minister has indicated that Gulf states could contribute to a proposed US$300 billion investment fund for Iran, contingent upon a final agreement between Tehran and Washington. The fund, described as 'aspirational' by the Qatari leader, is part of a broader US-proposed framework aimed at fostering regional economic cooperation and stability. The initiative is linked to a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran that also includes lifting a naval blockade and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Pegadaian Supports GENCARKAN 2026 on the Malaysia Border

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian is collaborating with financial regulators and local government to deliver the National Financial Literacy Movement (GENCARKAN) 2026 in Indonesia's border region of Nunukan and Sebatik Island. The initiative aims to boost financial literacy and inclusion in the frontier area, helping residents manage finances, invest safely, and avoid illegal financial schemes. The event also serves as the kick-off for North Kalimantan's Financial Literacy Month, targeting underserved communities in the nation's outermost territories.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Advises IPDN Papua Cadets on Leadership Foundations

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto delivered a lecture to IPDN Papua cadets, emphasising that future leaders must be grounded in ideology, strategy, and tactics to avoid transactional politics. He shared his experience as Bogor mayor, where a focus on gradual, community-focused programmes led to a significant increase in local revenue and improved public spaces.

Ministry of Culture Officially Launches KILA 2026, Inviting Indonesian Children to Create and Revitalise Children's Songs

Indonesia's Ministry of Culture has launched the KILA 2026 programme, continuing its annual initiative to strengthen the children's song ecosystem through songwriting and singing competitions. Minister Fadli Zon and cultural officials emphasised the programme's role in character building, cultural identity, and nurturing young talent. The initiative aims to address the limited production of age-appropriate children's music in Indonesia.

Police Arrest Hard Drug Dealer in Serang, Seize Thousands of Hexymer Pills

Police in Serang, Banten, have arrested a 25-year-old man for illegally distributing prescription drugs, confiscating over 3,000 pills of Hexymer and Tramadol. The suspect allegedly sourced the drugs via a Facebook account and sold them online without a licence. He faces charges under Indonesia's Health Law for circulating pharmaceutical products without proper authority.

Maxim and Cheshire Indonesia Foundation Provide Transport Aid and Open Partnership Opportunities for People with Disabilities

Ride-hailing platform Maxim has signed a memorandum of understanding with Yayasan Cheshire Indonesia to boost economic empowerment for people with physical disabilities. The initiative includes providing Rp18 million in travel credit and offering a commission-free programme with BPJS employment protection for disabled driver-partners. This partnership aims to address the low labour participation rate and higher poverty levels among Indonesia's disabled population.

Expert: EU Unlikely to Welcome UK Back

A British politics expert suggests the European Union would probably not welcome a UK attempt to rejoin under new leadership. Andrew Roe-Crines of the University of Liverpool argues that Brussels views Britain as a difficult former partner and that pro-EU sentiment in the UK underestimates the bloc's reluctance. The comments come amid political uncertainty in Britain following Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation as Labour Party leader.

WIKA Wins Four Indonesia Sustainability Awards 2026, Strengthens ESG Commitment

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) has secured four accolades at the Indonesia Sustainability Award 2026, underscoring its dedication to environmental, social, and governance principles. The awards recognise the company's leadership in sustainable infrastructure, innovation, and corporate transformation. WIKA views the recognition as a mandate to further embed ESG into its business strategy and operations.

Maluku Police Provide Health Services and Social Aid to 3,835 Residents

The Maluku Regional Police delivered free healthcare and food aid to 3,835 residents as part of the 80th Police Day commemorations. The initiative included general check-ups, specialist consultations, and the distribution of 500 rice packages, highlighting the strong public demand for accessible medical services. The police chief reaffirmed the force's commitment to humanist and inclusive public service.

After Rejection by AGO, Former BGN Official Sony Sonjaya Seeks Justice Collaborator Status from LPSK

Sony Sonjaya, former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), has applied to the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) for justice collaborator status after his initial request was denied by the Attorney General's Office (AGO). The application relates to an alleged corruption case involving the management of the free nutritious meals programme for 2025-2026. The AGO previously rejected his request, stating he was a main perpetrator in the scheme and had not admitted to his actions.

Ministry of Law Delivers Noken Cenderawasih Creation Certificate to Jayawijaya Government

The Ministry of Law's Papua office has handed over a creation certificate for the Noken Cenderawasih handicraft to the Jayawijaya Regency administration. The certificate provides legal protection for the traditional woven product and is a step towards securing a geographical indication for the region's unique crafts. Jayawijaya is reportedly leading Papua in obtaining intellectual property certificates, with products like Arabica coffee and honey also receiving recognition.

With Fares from Rp2,000 to Rp5,000, KA Siliwangi Serves 680,541 Passengers in Jan–May 2026

State-owned railway operator KAI reported a 5.75 per cent year-on-year increase in passengers on the local economy train KA Siliwangi, serving 680,541 customers between January and May 2026. The service, connecting Sukabumi and Cipatat, offers ultra-low fares and supports daily mobility for students, traders, and families. KAI highlighted the train's role in providing affordable, safe travel during the school holiday period while stimulating small businesses around stations.

Pioneer of Modern Muslim Cemeteries Continues to Innovate for Indonesian Families

Al Azhar Memorial Garden (AMG) has spent 15 years pioneering modern, sharia-compliant Muslim burial services in Indonesia, integrating professional management with Islamic values. The company plans to expand its services to other cities and provinces to meet the growing demand for well-organised memorial parks, particularly in the Jabodetabek area. Since 2011, AMG has developed 25 hectares of land in Karawang, West Java, with over 80 percent of plots already sold.

UI Anthropologist: Police Involvement in Food Security is Acceleration, Not Intervention

A University of Indonesia anthropology professor has defended the National Police's role in food security programmes, arguing it represents an acceleration of agricultural development rather than state overreach. He contends that food security is now a legitimate dimension of national security, and the police's involvement can help transform rural economies beyond basic rice production. The academic suggests the force can motivate villages to cultivate higher-value commodities to boost farmer welfare.

Three NTB Council Members Deny 'Ghost Money' Allegations in Court

Three members of the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional House of Representatives have denied allegations of distributing illicit funds to fellow legislators. The defendants, Hamdan Kasim, Indra Jaya Usman, and Muhammad Nashib Ikroman, refuted the charges during a corruption court hearing in Mataram. The case involves alleged gratuities linked to a Rp 76 billion governor's directive programme for newly elected council members.

Minister PKP confirms 40-year subsidised mortgage tenor agreed and ready for implementation

Indonesia's Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait announced that the Tapera Committee has approved a 40-year tenor for subsidised mortgages, following President Prabowo's directive to make home financing more accessible. The government also decided to maintain a 5% interest rate for landed subsidised houses and set a 6% rate for subsidised flats, while preparing a quota of 350,000 subsidised housing units.

B50 Era: From energy security to Indonesia's new position on the world stage

Indonesia will mandate the use of B50 biodiesel, a 50 percent palm oil blend, from July 2026, positioning the country as a global leader in high-level biodiesel adoption. The policy is projected to save up to Rp157.28 trillion in foreign exchange by slashing fossil diesel imports and bolstering domestic palm oil absorption. This strategic shift aims to strengthen national energy security while reducing trade balance pressures amid global oil price volatility.

Yogyakarta Prosecutor's Office Forms Joint Team to Handle Daycare Child Abuse Case

The Yogyakarta District Prosecutor's Office has assembled a joint team of senior prosecutors to handle the child abuse case at Little Aresha Daycare, involving 13 suspects. The team is coordinating with police and the local child protection commission to prioritise the psychological recovery of the victims. The case file will soon be submitted to the Yogyakarta District Court to ensure legal certainty for both victims and suspects.

Beyond Academic Excellence: Character-Building Deemed Crucial for Children's Future Readiness

An Indonesian primary school headmaster has stressed that character education, encompassing moral values and social responsibility, is as vital as academic achievement in preparing children for a complex digital era. The remarks were made during a graduation ceremony for 102 students, which featured an AI-generated video visualising pupils' future aspirations. The school aims to produce graduates who excel in knowledge, possess strong Islamic values, and are ready to contribute positively to society.

AGO Awaits BPKP Audit to Investigate Palm Oil Exporters for Price Manipulation

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office is investigating palm oil companies suspected of under-invoicing exports, awaiting a state loss calculation from the BPKP audit agency. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa previously reported that a random sample of 10 major exporters all engaged in the practice, with estimated losses from the sample alone reaching USD 84 million.

BNPT Bolsters Security Preparedness for Power Plants in Riau Islands

Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) is enhancing security measures for power generation facilities in the Riau Islands to protect the public from energy disruptions. The initiative includes comprehensive assessments of personnel and infrastructure, with over 26 PLN units already evaluated under national security regulations. The move aims to safeguard critical national assets from evolving threats, including those in the digital domain.

Fuel Prices Keep Rising, Trump Orders Investigation

US President Donald Trump has directed the Department of Justice to investigate major oil companies over persistently high petrol prices, accusing them of failing to pass on steep declines in crude oil costs to consumers. The move follows a recent drop in the national average petrol price below $4 per gallon for the first time since March, partly attributed to a US-Iran memorandum of understanding aimed at easing regional tensions.

PPKGBK Clears Hotel Sultan Assets Ahead of Building Demolition

The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) has begun emptying assets from the Hotel Sultan complex in Jakarta following a Central Jakarta District Court ruling. Movable property from four hotel towers and two apartment towers is being relocated to a warehouse complex in Cikarang, Bekasi, before the structures are demolished. The execution of the land marks a significant step in resolving the long-standing dispute over the prime Senayan site.

KPK to Auction Seized Assets from Noel Case: From Porsche Rims to Ducati

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is set to auction assets seized from former Deputy Manpower Minister Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan and ten other defendants convicted in a K3 certification extortion case. The auction, scheduled for International Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December 2026, includes luxury vehicles, jewellery, property, and high-end motorcycle parts such as Ducati rims and an Akrapovic exhaust. Proceeds from the sale of the hundreds of items will be used to recover state financial losses.

BRIN Research: Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Cluster in Java, Yet to Reach Vulnerable Regions

Research by Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) reveals that the distribution of kitchens for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is heavily concentrated in Java and western Indonesia, mirroring commercial business locations rather than targeting areas with high poverty and stunting rates. The study recommends the government fully fund kitchens in disadvantaged regions like eastern Indonesia, Papua, and NTT using the state budget, rather than relying on fluctuating corporate social responsibility schemes. BRIN also suggests developing mobile kitchen models tailored to the geography of remote and outermost regions.

UMJ Receives Three Decrees for New Study Programmes from Minister of Higher Education

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) has been granted three ministerial decrees to open new study programmes, including a Speech Therapy undergraduate programme, a Physical Education master's, and a Political Science doctorate. The approvals are seen as a strategic move to expand academic offerings and address societal needs, with the programmes expected to admit students in the upcoming odd semester.

Three Candidate Managers Die, Palace Says Village Cooperative Programme Will Continue

The Indonesian government has confirmed that the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme will proceed despite the deaths of three candidate managers during basic military training. A senior official stated that mitigation and evaluation efforts are underway, but the incident will not halt the programme. The three deceased were among 35,476 candidates undergoing 45 days of training for the cooperative initiative.

Police Chief guarantees security and comfort for investment in Aceh

Aceh's Police Chief has moved to reassure investors by guaranteeing security and comfort in the province, aiming to dispel negative perceptions amid the recent South Andaman gas discovery by Mubadala Energy. The statement was made during discussions on revising the development plan for the Andaman block, where the investor had raised concerns about onshore safety. The Aceh government is pushing for onshore gas processing at the Arun Special Economic Zone to maximise local economic benefits.

AMALI: State Must Help Finance Pesantren Education

The Indonesian Ma'had Aly Association (AMALI) is backing a judicial review of the Pesantren Law, arguing that ambiguous wording has allowed the state to shirk its obligation to fund pesantren education proportionally. They highlight discrimination against Ma'had Aly institutions, including lecturers' lack of access to certification and students' exclusion from national databases and financial aid programmes like KIP Kuliah.

BRIN Researcher Recommends Gradual, Data-Based Evaluation of Free Nutritious Meal Programme

A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has welcomed the government's openness to evaluating the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme but stressed that future improvements must be based on objective, measurable indicators rather than subjective labels. He also criticised the initial design for rushing towards universal coverage, suggesting a more targeted, phased approach would be more effective.

Aria Bima Says Commission II Has Comprehensive Data to Lead Election Bill Deliberations

Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian House's Commission II, Aria Bima, insists that the revision of the Election Law should remain under the purview of his commission's special committee, citing its possession of comprehensive data on past electoral violations. He argues that Commission II's direct partnership with election organisers and related ministries provides it with mature references to address priority issues such as court rulings and electoral thresholds. While acknowledging the potential benefit of a larger cross-commission committee for budgetary scrutiny, he believes this can be managed through internal party mechanisms.

Government Communication Body Denies Orchestrating Pro-Free Nutritious Meal Protests

Indonesia's Government Communication Body (Bakom) has refuted allegations that recent demonstrations supporting the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme were orchestrated by the state. The agency insists the government respects all public opinion, both for and against its policies, while confirming ongoing governance reforms under the new National Nutrition Agency leadership. Separately, the agency announced a temporary halt to incentives for meal service units during school holidays, projecting budget savings of approximately Rp3 trillion.

Revealed: Owner of Instagram and WhatsApp Secretly Develops Gambling-Style App

Meta Platforms is reportedly developing a standalone prediction market app codenamed 'Arena', similar to Polymarket and Kalshi, which allow users to wager on real-world events. Initially using a points-based system rather than real money, the project could eventually introduce cash betting, raising regulatory concerns in countries like Indonesia where gambling is strictly prohibited. The move is seen as a strategy to leverage Meta's 3.5 billion users for new growth amid slowing expansion on its core platforms.

Soekarno-Hatta Customs Thwarts Smuggling of 18 kg of Cannabis from US and Russia

Indonesian customs officials at Soekarno-Hatta Airport intercepted two separate shipments totalling over 18 kilograms of cannabis and hashish originating from the United States and Russia. The drugs, falsely declared as luggage, were destined for foreign nationals residing in Bali. Authorities are investigating potential links between the cases and a broader international narcotics network, with one Russian national already arrested in Bali and another added to a wanted list.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Promises Health Facility Evaluation After Jakarta International Marathon Death

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung expressed condolences after a participant died during the Jakarta International Marathon 2026, suspected from a heart attack and dehydration. He pledged a thorough evaluation of medical facilities and care for future events, while also highlighting the event's significant economic impact of over Rp255 billion for the capital.

IRSX Diversifies into Creative Design Sector, What Are the Prospects?

PT Folago Global Nusantara Tbk (IRSX) is expanding into creative design services through its subsidiary, with an independent study projecting a payback period of just 1 year and 8 months. The move aims to capitalise on Indonesia's growing digital advertising market, which reached USD3.64 billion in 2025, and diversify the company's revenue streams.

Pertamina AGM Approves 2025 Net Profit of Rp 55.20 Trillion

PT Pertamina's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders has approved the state-owned energy company's 2025 financial results, which include a net profit of US$3.35 billion. The company reported strong performance across upstream, downstream, and renewable energy sectors, maintaining oil and gas production above 1 million BOEPD. Pertamina also contributed Rp 360.76 trillion to the state through taxes, non-tax revenue, and dividends.

Crowd Erupts Chanting Cabinet Secretary Teddy's Name in Front of Prabowo

Thousands of residents in Gorontalo enthusiastically chanted the name of Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya during a national farmers' and fishermen's event attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The crowd's focus on the former presidential aide prompted a humorous reaction from Prabowo, who noted the reception was more befitting a president. The incident highlights the public profile and popularity of the military officer within the current administration.

Environment Minister Initiates Asia-Pacific Forum for Biodiversity Credits and Affirms Local Community Rights

Indonesia's Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat has launched the Asia-Pacific Roundtable on Biodiversity Credits during London Climate Action Week, positioning the country as a regional leader in high-integrity nature markets. He stressed that biodiversity credits must deliver equitable benefits to local and indigenous communities, not merely serve as financial instruments. The initiative is part of Indonesia's broader effort to design a progressive multi-credit scheme that economically values endemic species and habitat protection.

H5 Bird Flu Cases Detected Again, Australia Steps Up Surveillance

Australia has confirmed a new case of highly pathogenic H5 bird flu in a wild migratory bird in South Australia, bringing the total detected cases to three. The discovery has prompted authorities to heighten surveillance along the southern coastline to monitor the virus's spread. The latest case involves a giant petrel, following two earlier confirmed cases in Western Australia.

Prambanan Hospital Claims It Has Apologised to Family of Toddler Who Died After CT Scan

Prambanan Regional Hospital in Sleman, Yogyakarta, has stated it visited the family of a three-year-old girl who died following a CT scan and conveyed an apology for any miscommunication. The hospital's legal representative confirmed they are cooperating with an ongoing police investigation into alleged malpractice, which has so far questioned eight individuals including three doctors. The case was reported by the child's mother in May 2026 and remains under preliminary investigation.

Flood-Prone Candigara River in Klungkung Begins Dredging

Authorities in Klungkung, Bali, have commenced dredging the Candigara River to mitigate flooding caused by siltation. The phased normalisation project, targeted for completion within 60 working days, aims to protect residential areas and farmland. Local officials also plan to redevelop the riverbanks into public spaces to support micro-enterprises.

From 2027, Honorary Madrasah Teachers Projected to Receive Rp1 Million Monthly Incentive

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission VIII has approved an additional Rp4.6 trillion budget allocation for the Ministry of Religious Affairs in the 2027 indicative ceiling. The funds are earmarked to provide a monthly incentive of Rp1 million for honorary teachers at madrasahs nationwide. The initiative aims to improve the welfare of these educators, with Central Java's deputy governor expressing strong support for its realisation.

Luhut on Free Nutritious Meals: Why All at Once? It Could Be Done Gradually

National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has suggested the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme should be implemented in phases rather than all at once, following an evaluation that identified teething problems. He acknowledged the rapid rollout caused some issues but remains optimistic the flagship programme will improve within six to twelve months. Luhut also highlighted the programme's significant economic impact, citing its role in income redistribution and stimulating regional economies.

Honorary Madrasah Teachers Projected to Receive Rp1 Million per Month in 2027

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII has approved an additional Rp4.6 trillion budget allocation for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, aimed at providing monthly honorariums of Rp1 million to honorary madrasah teachers starting in 2027. The initiative seeks to improve the welfare of non-civil servant educators, who constitute the majority of madrasah teaching staff. Officials in Central Java welcomed the plan while emphasising the need for accurate data synchronisation to ensure the funds are distributed effectively.

AI and Automation Technology Drives Transformation in Textile and Garment Industry

The Indonesian textile and garment industry is embracing digital transformation to boost competitiveness, with China's Jack Technology launching the AI-powered SmartLink Master solution. The sector attracted Rp20.23 trillion in investment and employed 3.96 million workers, while the domestic textile manufacturing market is projected to grow from US$42 billion in 2025 to US$64.2 billion by 2034. This shift towards integrated smart manufacturing aims to enhance productivity and responsiveness to market changes.

Sony Sonjaya's Justice Collaborator Request Under LPSK Verification

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is currently verifying a justice collaborator application submitted by former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, in connection with an alleged corruption case involving the free nutritious meal programme. The application was filed after the Attorney General's Office rejected his initial request, deeming him a main suspect who had not admitted guilt. LPSK has 30 working days to review the application once it is declared complete.

Running for Health or Lifestyle? A Sociological Perspective

The rise of 'kalcer' runners in Indonesia reflects a shift from running as a health activity to a social media performance driven by consumerism and FOMO. Sociologist Karl Marx's concept of alienation helps explain how runners become estranged from the authentic purpose of exercise, prioritising digital validation over personal wellbeing. The article argues that education must foster critical literacy to help young people distinguish between intrinsic health needs and the pursuit of social recognition.

Lebanon: Negotiations with Israel separate from US-Iran talks

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has confirmed that ongoing negotiations with Israel in Washington are proceeding independently of parallel US-Iran discussions in Switzerland. The talks aim to consolidate a ceasefire in southern Lebanon, secure an Israeli troop withdrawal, and facilitate the return of displaced residents and reconstruction. Aoun stated the discussions are intended to establish a clear framework leading to a lasting peace.

AHY: Reconstruction of Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo reaches 50 percent

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has confirmed that the reconstruction of the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, is now more than 50 percent complete. The project, costing approximately Rp122 billion, focuses on integrated dormitories, a four-storey mosque, and educational facilities designed to modern safety standards. The minister expects the work to be finished within the coming months as part of a broader government push that includes renovating around 1,400 madrasahs nationwide with a budget of roughly Rp4 trillion.

Fellow Debt Collector Colleague Urged Taufik to Surrender After Being Named Suspect in Yuvita Torture Case

Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in the severe abuse and confinement of his girlfriend, was arrested after heeding the advice of a former colleague. Dadang Ahyar Ismail, who worked with Taufik as a debt collector, persuaded him to stop fleeing and surrender to the police. The suspect was subsequently picked up at Dadang's residence in Bandung and handed over to the authorities.

Participant in Jakarta's 'Fishermen's Village' Basic Military Training Dies

A participant in Indonesia's SPPI Fishermen's Village programme, Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, died during basic military training in East Jakarta, with medical reports indicating tuberculosis. The Ministry of Defence expressed condolences and pledged to strengthen health supervision, while a parliamentary commission member called for a reduction in militaristic training in favour of cooperative management skills.

Mosque Cleaning Duty Integral to Character Building for Gontor Students

At Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor, daily mosque cleaning duty is framed as a key component of the institution's holistic education philosophy. The practice is designed to instil a sense of responsibility and sincere devotion in students, extending character formation beyond the classroom. The activity underscores the pesantren's approach that all daily experiences contribute to shaping future community-oriented leaders.

Three Prospective Cooperative Managers Die During Military Training

The number of prospective managers for the government's flagship village and fishermen's cooperatives who have died during basic military training has risen to three. The latest victim, Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, passed away after falling ill during a programme run by the Indonesian Air Force. The Ministry of Defence has expressed condolences and stated it is evaluating health supervision protocols to ensure participant safety remains the top priority.

Civil Coalition Criticises Military Training After Two Kopdes SPPI Deaths

A civil society coalition has condemned the use of military training for participants in the government's Kopdes Merah Putih programme following the deaths of two trainees. The coalition argues the militaristic approach is inappropriate for a civilian cooperative initiative and violates the TNI Law. The government has stated the programme will continue despite the fatalities, promising a separate investigation and mitigation measures.

Strengthening MSMEs Becomes Pillar of National Economic Stability Amid Global Pressures

Economist Syarifuddin Nasution has highlighted the strategic role of Indonesia's 65.5 million micro, small, and medium enterprises in safeguarding the national economy against ongoing global uncertainties. The sector, which contributes over 60 percent to GDP and employs 119 million people, is considered more adaptive due to its reliance on domestic markets and local resources. He called for sustained collaboration between government, business, and academia to enhance financing, digitalisation, and market access for MSMEs.

BSPD 2026 Brings Together Startups and Investors

Bandung Startup Pitching Day 2026 connected 21 Indonesian startups with 15 investors and venture capital firms to foster collaboration and funding. The event, held at SBM ITB, highlighted the role of universities in translating research into market-ready solutions. Awards were given for innovation, pitching, impact, and marketability, underscoring the strength of the national innovation ecosystem.

Prabowo Opens Public Voting for 81st Indonesian Independence Day Logo

President Prabowo Subianto has decided that the official logo for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day will be chosen directly by the public through an online vote. Five finalist designs, curated from 124 submissions, will be open for voting from 24 to 28 June, marking a departure from the previous practice of presidential selection. The initiative aims to broaden public participation in shaping the visual identity of the national commemoration.

BRI Life Supports Ministry of SMEs in Promoting Protection Education via UMKM Fun Run 5K

BRI Life participated in the UMKM Fun Run 5K event in Jakarta to support the Ministry of SMEs' campaign for financial literacy and protection. The insurer provided on-site consultations and promoted digital products like MODI to raise awareness about the importance of life insurance among entrepreneurs and the public. This initiative aligns with BRI Life's commitment to strengthening the national SME ecosystem and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Mayor Fadly Amran Shares Hydrometeorological Disaster Management Tips at GSDC 2026

Padang Mayor Fadly Amran presented the city's four-stage disaster management strategy at the Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026, emphasising collaboration and science-based policy. He highlighted a budget allocation of Rp 371.85 billion for hydrometeorological disaster response. Academics from City University of Hong Kong also noted the unprecedented nature of recent tropical cyclones in Southeast Asia and the importance of pre-disaster data trends.

Forging the Soul of a Nation's Servant Behind the Stethoscope

An academic argues that Citizenship Education (PKN) is a crucial, often underestimated component of medical training in Indonesia. The course instils Pancasila values, shaping doctors into ethical practitioners who uphold human dignity, champion social justice in healthcare, and contribute to national resilience. Without this civic foundation, future physicians risk becoming mere medical technicians devoid of ethical direction.

Loss of Empathy and Drive for Power Can Trigger Torture, Says Psychologist

A psychologist warns that a pathological need for control and a diminished capacity for empathy are key psychological drivers behind acts of torture and false imprisonment. The statement comes amid public attention on a recent high-profile kidnapping and abuse case in Bandung, West Java.

UMJ Strengthens International Networks at Global Sustainable Development Congress

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) participated in the Global Sustainable Development Congress in Tangerang to boost its global reputation and forge international partnerships. The university joined 28 other Muhammadiyah higher education institutions at the Times Higher Education event, aiming to secure at least 100 strategic partners. UMJ also introduced its Global Reputation Partner (MR-Go) programme, showcasing academic and innovation excellence.

The Copenhagen Fake Research Scandal: A Mirror of Indonesia's Fragile Academic Ecosystem

A fraudulent research paper presented at a Copenhagen conference, allegedly fabricated using artificial intelligence, has exposed deep flaws in Indonesia's academic incentive systems. The scandal, uncovered by two Indonesian researchers, highlights how travel grant schemes can be exploited due to a lack of data validation. The incident calls for systemic reforms in conference checks, institutional incentives, and the cultivation of genuine research integrity.

Can LGBT Individuals Be Criminalised in Indonesia? A Law Professor Explains

University of Indonesia law professor Heru Susetyo explains that under Indonesia's positive law, individuals cannot be criminalised solely for their LGBT status unless they commit a specific crime. Exceptions exist in Aceh under Sharia law, and while campaigns may be halted, criminalising LGBT behaviour nationally would require legislative changes and could provoke international backlash.

Russia Claims Nuclear Weapons Are the Sole Deterrent Preventing World War

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that nuclear deterrence is the only remaining mechanism preventing a global conflict, as international security conditions continue to erode. He warned that emerging non-nuclear weapons could eventually match the destructive power of nuclear arms. The remarks were made amid heightened geopolitical tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.

LPSK Verifies Justice Collaborator Request from Former Deputy Head of BGN Sonny Sonjaya

Indonesia's Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is verifying a justice collaborator application from Sonny Sonjaya, the former deputy head of the National Nutrition Body, related to alleged corruption in the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The Attorney General's Office previously rejected his request, deeming him a main perpetrator who had not fully admitted his actions. LPSK has 30 working days to review the application once documents are declared complete.

Palace Speaks Out on Fate of Hotel Sultan Employees

The Indonesian government has confirmed that data collection and verification of Hotel Sultan employees is underway as the area's evacuation proceeds. The process aims to map workers' statuses before deciding on a future empowerment scheme, with the Gelora Bung Karno management tasked to facilitate their re-employment. President Prabowo Subianto has also requested the Danantara investment authority to design a masterplan for the wider GBK complex, leaving the hotel's ultimate fate undecided.

KAI North Sumatra Urges Public to Stay Away from Railway Tracks

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's North Sumatra division has issued a stern warning to the public against any activity on railway tracks, citing the high risk of fatal accidents. Over the past three years, 114 incidents of people being struck by trains have been recorded, with 64% resulting in death. The company emphasises that trespassing on railway lines is a criminal offence under Indonesian law.

New Online Scam Hubs Emerge Near Indonesia After Cambodia Crackdown

Following a major crackdown on online scam compounds in Cambodia, organised cybercrime syndicates are relocating their operations to Sri Lanka, exploiting visa-free travel, robust telecom infrastructure, and informal money transfer systems. Sri Lankan authorities have responded by forming a new cybercrime unit and arresting over 1,000 suspects, but face challenges due to the misuse of tourist visas and the syndicates' ability to fragment into smaller, harder-to-track cells.

BRIN Researcher Proposes Four Strategic Steps to Strengthen Free Nutritious Meal Programme

A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has outlined four strategic measures to improve the implementation of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The recommendations focus on full transparency in budgeting and procurement, strengthening leadership integrity, tightening regulations to prevent moral hazard, and involving independent auditors and the public in oversight. The proposals aim to ensure the multi-trillion rupiah programme runs optimally and maintains public trust.

National Internship Programme Helps Participants Secure Permanent Jobs, Says Bakom RI

Indonesia's Government Communication Agency (Bakom RI) reports that the National Internship Programme has yielded positive results, with over 5,000 participants receiving direct job offers from their host companies. Evaluations also indicate significant improvements in participants' technical and soft skills, demonstrating the programme's effectiveness in bridging education and employment.

Transforming Business Collaboration through an Integrated Work Ecosystem

Indonesian companies are adopting numerous digital tools but still face fragmented communication and slow decision-making. Lark, an all-in-one collaboration platform, aims to address this by integrating chat, documents, and workflows into a single ecosystem. The solution will be showcased at B2B Expo Asia Indonesia 2026 by Virtuenet by Prasetia to help businesses build more transparent and efficient operations.

Government-Backed 'SMA Unggul Garuda' Programme Sees 150% Surge in Students Entering Top 100 Global Universities

The Indonesian government's 'SMA Unggul Garuda Transformasi' programme has yielded a dramatic 150% increase in students accepted into the world's top 100 universities within a single year. The number of successful applicants from 12 pioneer schools rose from 132 in 2025 to 330 in 2026 following targeted enrichment and capacity-building initiatives. The government plans to expand the programme to 42 schools in 2026, with a target of 80 by 2029.

BRIN: MBG Programme Evaluation a Momentum for System Overhaul

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has urged the government to use the evaluation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme as a catalyst for comprehensive public policy reform. A researcher highlighted that recent corruption cases and implementation flaws reveal systemic planning weaknesses that must be addressed. The call emphasises mapping conflicts of interest across all implementing actors to prevent future failures in the massive nationwide initiative.

Bantul Man Steals Neighbour's Phone to Swindle Rp20 Million

A 27-year-old man in Bantul, Yogyakarta, stole his neighbour's smartphone and used it to impersonate the victim, tricking a friend into transferring Rp20 million under the pretence of a truck collateral. The victim was forced to reimburse the deceived friend to prevent his truck from being seized, and police have since arrested the suspect.

Dozens of Shipwrecks Litter Karangantu Estuary, Nearly Submerged

Approximately 80 abandoned and decaying wooden shipwrecks are clogging the Karangantu estuary in Serang, Banten, severely narrowing navigation channels and hindering local fishermen. Banten Governor Andra Soni has inspected the site and announced a joint cleanup operation with the regional river authority to remove the wrecks and dredge an estimated 190,000 cubic metres of sediment. The project is expected to take several months, during which the governor has apologised in advance for disruptions to fishing activities.

Indonesia Guarantees Indigenous Peoples' Veto Rights in Biodiversity Credit Scheme

Indonesia has unveiled a blueprint for a national biodiversity credit market that grants indigenous communities veto power and positions them as primary beneficiaries. The Environment Minister stressed the scheme will not be purely capitalistic, ensuring fair benefits for local guardians of the forest. The framework includes legal shields against exploitation and a multi-credit system that values the protection of endemic species like tigers and orangutans.

Russia: Only Nuclear Weapons Prevent Global War

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that nuclear deterrence is the sole mechanism preventing a global conflict, warning that international security conditions have significantly eroded. Speaking at the Primakov Readings forum, he noted the rising potential for regional conflicts and the absence of effective negotiation mechanisms for security issues. Peskov also cautioned that emerging non-nuclear weapons could eventually rival the destructive power of nuclear arms.

President Prabowo lets public choose Indonesia's 81st anniversary logo

President Prabowo has decided to let the Indonesian public vote for the official logo of the country's 81st Independence Day anniversary, breaking from the tradition of presidential selection. The Creative Economy Ministry shortlisted five designs from 124 submissions, with online voting open from June 24 to 28. The initiative aims to boost public participation in shaping the visual identity of the national commemoration.

Bareskrim Polri Transfers Drug Lord Koko Erwin Case to Bima District Attorney

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has handed over the case of suspected drug lord Erwin Iskandar, alias Koko Erwin, to the Bima District Attorney's Office in West Nusa Tenggara. The transfer includes a second suspect, Akhsan Al Fadhil, who allegedly acted as a courier. The case is linked to a broader investigation involving a Rp1 billion bribe allegedly paid to a former Bima police chief.

Russia open to discussions with ASEAN on aligning digital transactions

Russia has expressed willingness to engage with ASEAN member states to harmonise digital transaction and economic systems. Ambassador Evgeny Zagaynov acknowledged that achieving the ambitious $100 billion trade target will take time due to geopolitical constraints and illegal financial restrictions. Both sides are exploring alternative financial schemes and the use of national currencies to mitigate global fiscal pressures and strengthen bilateral cooperation.

OJK: Impact of Exchange Rate Weakening on Rural Banks Relatively Limited

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) assesses that the direct impact of the rupiah's depreciation on Rural Banks (BPR) is limited due to their domestic currency operations. However, the regulator warns of indirect effects, such as reduced repayment capacity among MSME debtors reliant on imported materials. The OJK is urging BPRs to strengthen resilience and enhance monitoring of borrowers sensitive to exchange rate fluctuations.

House Member Urges Police to Investigate Other Parties in Bandung Confinement Case

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the police to broaden their investigation into the confinement and abuse of a woman in Bandung, which allegedly lasted for three years. The lawmaker stressed that other individuals who may have known about, permitted, or assisted in the crime must be identified and prosecuted. He also urged the state to prioritise the victim's medical and psychological recovery alongside delivering the maximum penalty to the perpetrators.

After Rejection by Attorney General's Office, Sony Sonjaya Seeks Justice Collaborator Status from LPSK

Sony Sonjaya, a suspect in the alleged corruption of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals programme, has applied for justice collaborator status and protection from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) after the Attorney General's Office rejected his initial request. His legal team claims he is prepared to testify against 41 influential figures and provide evidence of transactional practices in the programme's implementation. The Attorney General's Office maintains that Sonjaya is a principal perpetrator, not a secondary actor, and therefore does not meet the legal requirements for justice collaborator status.

Attorney General Reveals How Benny Tjokro Cunningly Shielded Assets from Auction

Indonesia's Attorney General has disclosed how convicted fraudster Benny Tjokro strategically encumbered his assets with massive debts to thwart state seizure. The former Jiwasraya and Asabri convict placed high-value liens on properties, including a building now used as a prosecutor's office, causing repeated auction failures. Authorities are now investigating whether these bank guarantees were legitimate transactions or a deliberate ploy to protect illicit wealth.

East Aceh Regency Government Rebuilds Flood-Damaged Schools

The East Aceh Regency administration has commenced the reconstruction of schools devastated by hydrometeorological flooding in late November 2025. The initiative, supported by the Kompas Humanitarian Fund Foundation, aims to restore educational facilities and foster hope for the region's youth. The project is part of a broader post-disaster recovery effort, with Aceh being the first of three affected Sumatran provinces to receive such assistance.

Health Minister Reveals 80% of Indonesia's Pharmaceutical Raw Materials Still Imported, Offers Solutions

Indonesia's Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin disclosed that 70-80% of the nation's active pharmaceutical ingredients are still imported, though this marks an improvement from over 90% previously. The government is pursuing a downstreaming strategy to boost domestic production of raw materials and plasma derivatives. A new Rp 3-4 trillion blood plasma processing plant in Karawang, set to operate by early 2027, aims to reduce import reliance and strengthen national health resilience.

Psychologist: The Need to Control Others Can Trigger Confinement

A psychologist has stated that a deep-seated need for control and power, often stemming from feelings of powerlessness, can drive individuals to commit acts of confinement and abuse. The perpetrator may view the victim as a symbol of past tormentors, using them as an outlet for years of accumulated rage. The comments were made in response to a recent publicised case of alleged confinement and assault of a woman in Bandung Regency.

Salatiga Toll Gate Construction Reaches 13.2 Percent Completion

Physical construction of the new Salatiga Toll Gate on the Semarang-Solo Toll Road in Central Java has reached 13.2 percent since commencing in April 2026. The project, managed by PT Trans Marga Jateng, is targeted for completion by January 2027 at a cost of approximately Rp113 billion. The new access point is expected to boost local economic growth, education, tourism, and social connectivity in the Salatiga region.

Government Communications Chief Qodari Mourns Father, Recalls a Brave and Sociable Figure

Muhammad Qodari, Head of the Government Communications Body (Bakom), has paid tribute to his late father Sulaiman Said, remembering him as a man of simple courage and high integrity. Said's willingness to migrate to an unfamiliar region for work taught Qodari the value of living harmoniously across different ethnic and religious groups. The loss was also acknowledged by Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait, who offered his condolences to the family.

Police Present Evidence in Bandung Abuse and Confinement Case

West Java Regional Police have presented evidence related to a severe abuse and confinement case in Bandung. Authorities are conducting detailed examinations and have established a special task force to identify potential additional victims of the suspect, Taufik Hidayat. A dedicated call centre has also been opened to receive further reports from the public.

Yusril Asks Ombudsman to Oversee 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives, Ready to Receive Public Complaints

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has requested the Indonesian Ombudsman to actively monitor the implementation of the government's 'Red and White' Village and Fishermen Cooperatives programme. He affirmed the Ombudsman can receive and investigate public complaints regarding potential maladministration. Yusril acknowledged the oversight task is challenging due to the programme's broad scope and the Ombudsman's limited resources, but stressed its importance for good governance.

Research Reveals Indonesia's PE/VC Investment Opportunity Index at 0.57

A new study places Indonesia's private equity and venture capital opportunity index at 0.57, positioning it in the lower-middle range among Asia-Pacific nations. The score reflects more restrained investor expectations rather than a lack of potential, with opportunities remaining in financial inclusion, healthcare, logistics, and energy transition. However, challenges such as fragmented ownership structures and non-standardised financial reporting among mid-sized firms remain key concerns for investors.

Ijarah Contract: A Relevant Financing and Leasing Solution for Today

The Islamic financing contract known as ijarah, which governs leasing and wage-based transactions, is increasingly applied in modern sectors such as banking, education, and healthcare. It offers a Sharia-compliant alternative by allowing the use of assets without outright ownership, ensuring cost transparency and avoiding interest. Despite its benefits, the growth of digitalisation and public awareness remain key challenges for its future development.

Rejection of JC Sonny Must Not Halt Investigation of Other Actors in MBG Corruption Case, Says Expert

An anti-corruption researcher has warned that the denial of suspect Sonny Sanjaya's justice collaborator status should not impede the investigation into other potential actors in the alleged corruption of Indonesia's multitrillion-rupiah Free Nutritious Meals programme. Herdiansyah Hamzah from Mulawarman University stressed that prosecutors possess other legal instruments to uncover the full scope of the scheme. He argued that given the programme's massive budget, it is implausible that only the currently named suspects were involved, urging the Attorney General's Office to pursue higher-authority decision-makers.

KPK Hands Over IDR 153 Billion in Seized Assets to TASPEN

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred an additional IDR 153 billion in seized assets to state-owned insurer PT TASPEN, bringing the total returned to IDR 1 trillion. The funds, confiscated from a fictitious investment case involving a former TASPEN director, will be managed to support the welfare of retired civil servants.

KAI Upgrades Facilities as LRT Jabodebek Ridership Surges 23%

State-owned railway operator KAI is upgrading facilities across its LRT Jabodebek network following a significant 23% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers, reaching 13.21 million in the first five months of 2026. Improvements include enhanced lighting, air conditioning, and lift and escalator refurbishments at key stations. The company emphasised that safety remains the foundation of all maintenance and enhancement programmes to support the growing demand for integrated urban transport.

Overcoming Elderly Dependency Through Education and Community Empowerment

A seminar in Jakarta highlighted the potential for retirees to remain productive and independent through entrepreneurship and community engagement. Organised by Universitas Kristen Indonesia, the event emphasised that retirement can be a new beginning, with economic activity and health maintenance serving as key pillars for a meaningful post-career life. The initiative reflects a broader push to empower the elderly by strengthening individual capacity rather than focusing solely on welfare.

FAO ranks Indonesia world's fourth-largest rice producer

Indonesia has been ranked the world's fourth-largest rice producer by the FAO, with output reaching 38 million tons, according to Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman. The achievement highlights increased national food production despite climate challenges and global supply uncertainties. The government is also expanding downstream agricultural programmes for cocoa, coconut, and sugarcane across 870,000 hectares to boost productivity and employment.

Pertamina Posts Rp 55.20 Trillion Net Profit in 2025

Indonesian state energy firm Pertamina reported a net profit of US$3.35 billion (Rp 55.20 trillion) for the 2025 fiscal year, underpinned by strong performance across its energy business lines. The company also contributed Rp 360.76 trillion to the state through taxes, non-tax revenue, and dividends, while advancing its energy transition and decarbonisation efforts.

Government Continues Removal of Assets from Former Hotel Sultan, Demolition Planned

The Indonesian government is proceeding with the removal of approximately 17,000 cubic metres of assets from the former Hotel Sultan in Jakarta, following a court-ordered eviction. The items are being stored in two warehouses for six months, while the head of the Danantara Investment Authority has indicated the building will eventually be demolished to make way for a new national landmark.

Community-Based Solar Power Development Requires Large Funding

Mosaic, a Muslim-led climate action group, has highlighted that developing community-based solar power plants (PLTS) in Indonesia requires substantial funding and broad support to meet the 2060 net-zero emissions target. The organisation is exploring Islamic financing instruments as a potential solution to overcome high initial investment costs and limited community access to solar technology.

Layoffs Surge in 2026, Heavy Pressure Mounts on the Real Sector

Indonesia's manufacturing heartland is experiencing a sharp rise in layoffs, with over 23,000 workers dismissed in the first five months of 2026. Analysts attribute the trend to weakened purchasing power, high interest rates, and rising production costs driven by a depreciating rupiah. The government is being urged to intervene with production incentives and import protections to prevent a negative cycle of falling consumption and further job losses.

Trump Furious After Senate Backs Resolution Limiting War Powers Against Iran

US President Donald Trump has reacted angrily after the Senate approved a symbolic resolution seeking to curtail his authority to conduct military operations against Iran. The bipartisan vote, which saw four Republican senators break ranks, reflects growing Congressional unease over the administration's Iran policy. Trump denounced the move as ill-timed and claimed it undermines his efforts to pressure Tehran.

1,000 Military Cadets to Mentor Students at 'Sekolah Rakyat' in Character-Building Programme

The Ministry of Social Affairs and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are collaborating to deploy approximately 1,000 military academy cadets to provide character and discipline training at 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools). The initiative, which aligns with a presidential instruction, will see groups of five cadets assigned to each school to teach practical life skills such as tidiness and uniform care. The programme is scheduled to commence in early August 2026 across 178 school locations.

Rice Traders Unfazed by El Niño, Ample Stockpiles, but Worried About This Instead

Indonesian rice traders are confident that massive government stockpiles of over 5 million tonnes will shield the country from global supply disruptions caused by El Niño. However, their primary concern has shifted to weakening consumer purchasing power, which is dampening market sales.

Wali Kota Makassar Promosikan Stadion Untia ke 28 Negara

Wali Kota Makassar Munafri Arifuddin mempromosikan proyek pembangunan Stadion Untia sebagai pusat sport tourism dan penggerak ekonomi baru di Indonesia Timur dalam forum bisnis internasional. Proyek di atas lahan 23 hektare ini dirancang tidak hanya sebagai arena sepak bola berstandar internasional, tetapi juga kawasan komersial dan hiburan terpadu. Pemerintah kota menawarkan peluang investasi ini kepada delegasi dari 28 negara dengan harapan dapat menciptakan lapangan kerja dan memperkuat posisi Makassar sebagai kota metropolitan.

Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Partners with LPSK to Follow Up Violence Case in Bandung

The Indonesian Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KPPPA) is collaborating with the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to ensure comprehensive support for a female victim of severe domestic violence in Bandung, West Java. The victim, identified as YTR, suffered serious injuries including blindness, torn lips, and mobility issues following an assault by her boyfriend. Authorities are coordinating to provide legal protection, medical assistance, and ensure the victim's rights are upheld throughout the judicial process.

BNPB After Major Central Sulawesi Quake: 1,349 Aftershocks, 2,533 Damaged Houses

Following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake in Central Sulawesi, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has recorded 1,349 aftershocks and significant structural damage. Over 2,500 homes have been affected, alongside places of worship, schools, and government buildings, while the Sigi Regency remains under a 14-day emergency status. Medical services continue in emergency tents as authorities assess building safety and prepare for rehabilitation efforts.

Downstream Investment Reaches Rp147 Trillion, Dominated by This Sector!

Indonesia's downstream investment reached Rp147 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, marking an 8.2% year-on-year increase. The mineral sector, including coal, gas, and oil, was the primary contributor, while the government is also pushing to expand downstream processing into fisheries, maritime, and green energy. The programme now accounts for nearly 30% of total investment realisation and is aimed at boosting economic growth, employment, and national self-sufficiency.

Local Government Deploys Five Sea Ambulances to Serve Thousand Islands Residents

The Thousand Islands Regency Health Sub-department has stationed five sea ambulances to provide emergency medical services for residents across the archipelago. The vessels, operated by various local health agencies, are positioned on key islands to ensure rapid response and patient referrals. This initiative aims to improve healthcare accessibility in the geographically challenging island region.

Home Affairs Minister Attends XVII National Farmers and Fishermen's Week in Gorontalo

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian joined President Prabowo Subianto at the XVII National Farmers and Fishermen's Week in Gorontalo, which drew around 50,000 participants. The event focused on technological transformation to support national food self-sufficiency. President Prabowo highlighted the historic bond between the military and Indonesia's farming and fishing communities.

Juanda Customs Office Raid Uncovers Alleged Scheme to Sell Refurbished Phones as New

Indonesian police have raided the Juanda Customs Office in East Java as part of an investigation into the alleged illegal import of refurbished mobile phones from China. Investigators suspect importers colluded with customs officials to misdeclare goods and avoid duties, allowing used phones to be sold as new in the domestic market. The scheme is believed to have caused state financial losses through customs fraud and broader economic harm.

Pekanbaru Mayor Guarantees No Child Will Drop Out of School in the City

Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho has pledged that no child in the city will be forced to drop out of school, promising the municipal government will find solutions to re-enrol those who have left education. He also highlighted plans to coordinate with neighbouring Kampar Regency to address enrolment difficulties for residents living in border areas. The administration will conduct a post-enrolment audit to identify and assist children who failed to secure school places.

Qatar Describes Proposed Rp5.3 Quadrillion Iran Reconstruction Fund as Aspirational

Qatar's Prime Minister has characterised a proposed $300 billion investment fund for Iran's reconstruction as an aspirational figure. The fund is contingent upon Iran reaching a final agreement with the United States, with Gulf states potentially playing a role in financing. The initiative is part of broader efforts to establish a regional security framework and future economic cooperation.

Tito Highlights Home Renovation Programme for Low-Income Families as Proof of Prabowo's Care for the Common People

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has stated that the expansion of the government's home renovation programme for low-income families demonstrates President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to the poor. During a visit to Gorontalo, he linked the provision of decent housing directly to poverty reduction efforts. The government is also strengthening land certification to provide legal certainty for beneficiaries.

Bali expands connectivity to Canberra with new Virgin Australia route

Virgin Australia has launched a direct flight service between Canberra and Denpasar, Bali, marking the reactivation of the route. The new connection is expected to boost tourism and economic ties between Indonesia and Australia. Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport now serves 12 direct routes from Australia, the highest number from any single country.

Tax Authority Confirms E-Commerce Levy Is Not a New Tax, Effective July 2026

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that the upcoming collection of income tax on online marketplace transactions, set to begin in July 2026, is not a new tax. The mechanism, which involves e-commerce platforms withholding Article 22 Income Tax at a rate of 0.5% from seller turnover, is designed to simplify compliance rather than impose additional burdens. The DJP also confirmed that sales data from sellers operating across multiple platforms will be integrated into the central tax system using their national ID numbers.

Bamsoet Backs Content Creator Drag Event, Urges Automotive-Creative Economy Synergy

Indonesian parliamentarian Bambang Soesatyo has endorsed an upcoming drag racing and content creator event in Bandung, highlighting its potential to merge the automotive sector with the creative economy. The event, scheduled for 4 July, will feature drag races, a charity component, and a bazaar involving 150 content creators and local MSMEs. He emphasised that such initiatives can strengthen community ties, boost local economic turnover, and demonstrate the multiplier effect of integrating digital content creation with traditional automotive activities.

Investment Contributes 30% to National Economic Growth, Says Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister for Investment and Downstreaming Todotua Pasaribu stated that investment now accounts for approximately 30% of Indonesia's economic growth. The government is targeting Rp 13,000 trillion in realised investment over five years to help achieve 8% economic growth by 2029, with downstreaming in minerals and other sectors playing a significant role.

TASPEN Inaugurates Mamuju Branch Office with ESG Concept

State-owned insurer PT TASPEN has opened its first branch office built to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards in Mamuju, West Sulawesi. The facility features wastewater treatment, biometric access, and disability-friendly design to serve over 48,000 participants and pensioners in the province. The inauguration marks a step in TASPEN's service transformation and commitment to sustainable development.

Illegal Goods Worth Rp3.5 Billion Destroyed by Jambi Customs

The Jambi Customs and Excise Office has destroyed 4.7 million illegal cigarettes and various other contraband items valued at approximately Rp3.5 billion. The goods were seized from 115 enforcement actions conducted over the past year in collaboration with local stakeholders. Officials stated the destruction serves as a firm message of law enforcement and the state's commitment to protecting the public from illicit trade.

Two Fraudsters Posing as Provincial Employees Swindle Hundreds in Malang

Two individuals in Malang have been arrested for allegedly defrauding hundreds of residents by posing as employees of a regional government-owned enterprise. One suspect even claimed to be an aide to the governor to convince victims to join a fictitious micro-business empowerment programme, resulting in losses totalling tens of millions of rupiah.

Health Minister Proposes Free Meals for TB Patients, Lawmaker Questions Budget and Oversight

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has proposed including tuberculosis patients in the government's free nutritious meal programme, citing research that better nutrition speeds recovery. A member of the House of Representatives has questioned whether the proposal has been thoroughly assessed, demanding clarity on the budget, data collection mechanisms, and supervision to ensure the programme remains targeted and effective.

Doctor Tifa Withdraws Pre-Trial Detention Challenge

Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, has withdrawn her pre-trial motion challenging the legality of her detention after the South Jakarta Prosecutor's Office granted her a suspension of detention. Her case file has been separated from co-defendant Roy Suryo's, and the trial will be held at the East Jakarta District Court following a Supreme Court directive.

Data centers key to driving 8 percent economic growth: Minister

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that developing data centre infrastructure is crucial for Indonesia to achieve over 8 percent economic growth, driven by the digital economy and artificial intelligence. He highlighted Indonesia's competitive advantages, including land availability and diverse energy sources, while also announcing plans to train 15,000 semiconductor talents and strengthen regional cooperation through the ASEAN Digital Economic Framework Agreement. The government aims to position Indonesia as a regional digital hub by accelerating data centre, semiconductor, and digital talent development.

Gen Z Earns More Than Millennials at the Same Age, Study Finds

A UK study reveals that Generation Z workers are enjoying higher real wages compared to Millennials at the same age, driven by early career pay growth and minimum wage hikes. However, the Resolution Foundation warns that inflation, economic slowdown, and a growing number of young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET) could threaten these gains.

Bima Arya Stresses ASN Must Have Empathy and a Serving Spirit

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has called for a transformation in public service, urging civil servants (ASN) to adopt a stronger service orientation, empathy, and innovation. He highlighted that these qualities are essential to bridge the gap between policy vision and real-world impact, particularly in meeting Minimum Service Standards (SPM) for education and health. The remarks were made during a design thinking training session aimed at building ASN capacity to create more responsive and citizen-centred policies.

Indonesia remains safe haven for investment amid turmoil: Airlangga

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto asserts that Indonesia and Southeast Asia remain attractive destinations for foreign direct investment despite global uncertainty. He highlights the region's resilient economic growth, supply chain realignment, and government efforts to maintain fiscal and monetary stability. Indonesia's ongoing OECD accession is also expected to enhance regulatory standards and unlock access to a vast global market.

OJK Reveals Several KBMI 1 Banks Plan Consolidation

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has disclosed that several banks in the KBMI 1 category are planning to consolidate to increase their business scale. The regulator is leaving the final decision to shareholders based on business considerations, while emphasising that the policy is a gradual, measured process aimed at creating a stronger and more efficient banking sector.

Samudera Indonesia Distributes Total Dividends of Rp196.5 Billion

PT Samudera Indonesia Tbk (SMDR) has approved a total dividend payout of Rp196.5 billion, or Rp12 per share, for the 2025 financial year. The shipping company also announced plans to issue Rp700 billion in sustainable sukuk to fund the acquisition of three new vessels. The dividend distribution follows a 3% year-on-year increase in net profit to USD 52.1 million, supported by a 9% rise in revenue.

Should Demonstration Funding Be Transparent?

A bribery scandal involving student leaders at Universitas Bung Karno has sparked calls for transparency in protest funding. The university suspended students after an alleged payment from an alumnus via police to avoid demonstrations near the State Palace. A budget watchdog notes that while public funds are strictly regulated, internal alliance funding mechanisms remain opaque.

Social Affairs Ministry and TNI Develop Character-Building Scheme for Sekolah Rakyat Students

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs is collaborating with the Indonesian National Armed Forces to instil discipline in students attending the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. Approximately 1,000 military cadets will be deployed to 178 schools to provide guidance on personal neatness and orderliness. The initiative, set to begin in August 2026, responds to President Prabowo Subianto's attention to tidiness and aims to help students adapt to a structured boarding school environment.

IMO begins evacuation of 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has commenced the evacuation of approximately 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf. The operation follows a recent US-Iran agreement to end military conflict and restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Two Cooperative and Fishing Village Training Participants Die, Amnesty International Demands Independent Investigation

Amnesty International Indonesia has called for an independent investigation after two civilians died during a military-style basic training programme for village cooperative managers. The organisation also urged the government to immediately halt military involvement in the programme, criticising the mandatory physical and disciplinary regime as irrelevant to cooperative management. The deaths have raised concerns over transparency, the militarisation of civilian roles, and the potential revival of a dual-function military doctrine.

Over 1,200 cargo ships stranded due to Strait of Hormuz closure

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has left more than 1,200 cargo vessels carrying goods worth $125 billion stranded, according to insurer Allianz. The disruption has fundamentally altered risk perceptions for strategic maritime chokepoints, with the conflict causing 14 seafarer deaths and missile attacks on over 40 ships. Shipping traffic is gradually recovering following a US-Iran agreement.

Government Probes Reports of Japanese Companies Leaving Indonesia

The Indonesian government is investigating claims that two Japanese automotive component manufacturers plan to relocate from Indonesia to Vietnam. While the Ministry of Industry states that operations remain normal and no layoffs have occurred, the reports have prompted calls for the government to safeguard the investment climate, particularly for export-oriented manufacturing firms.

MSCI Keeps Indonesia in Emerging Market Status, OJK Welcomes Decision

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed MSCI's 2026 decision to retain the country's equity market in its Emerging Market classification. The OJK views this as a sign of continued global investor confidence in the resilience of the Indonesian economy and pledges to maintain reform momentum to enhance market transparency and integrity.

Kaisar Kiasa, Son of DPR Budget Committee Chair, Declares Assets Exceeding Rp627 Billion

Kaisar Kiasa Kasih Said Putra, a young PDIP legislator and son of Budget Committee Chair MH Said Abdullah, has drawn public attention for his declared wealth of over Rp627 billion. His LHKPN report reveals substantial holdings in cash, securities, and properties across several strategic locations. The 31-year-old currently serves on House Commission XI overseeing finance and banking.

Jampidsus Reveals Paradigm Shift in Corruption Law Enforcement

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriyansah, has detailed a significant shift in prosecuting corruption, moving beyond mere financial recovery to addressing the comprehensive impact on the national economy. The new 'follow the impact' approach, exemplified by the Duta Palma case, seeks to prove not just state financial losses but also economic, environmental, and social damages. This paradigm has been reinforced by court rulings, including a recent decision that upheld the recovery of both Rp2.9 trillion in direct state losses and Rp10.5 trillion in broader economic losses.

Gerindra: Do Not Attempt to Drive a Wedge Between Prabowo and Gibran

The Gerindra Party faction in Indonesia's House of Representatives has warned against any efforts to create a rift between President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. A senior party official dismissed rumours of internal surveillance of the Vice President as a hoax, reaffirming the faction's full support for the administration. The party emphasised that its routine meetings focus on mitigating regional issues and monitoring public purchasing power.

DPR Leadership and Commission II to Conduct Safari to Gather Input from Non-Parliamentary Parties for Election Bill

The House of Representatives (DPR) and its Commission II will embark on a political safari to engage non-parliamentary parties in drafting a new Election Bill. The initiative aims to gather comprehensive input on crucial issues such as parliamentary and presidential thresholds, as well as electoral district mapping. The marathon consultation sessions are scheduled to begin next week before the DPR enters its recess period.

Fortified rice requires large-scale mills for quality control

The Millers for Nutrition coalition suggests Indonesia's fortified rice programme should begin with large-scale mills to ensure easier quality control and implementation. With over 100,000 rice mills of varying sizes nationwide, the main challenges lie in strengthening the industrial ecosystem and expanding the number of fortified rice kernel producers. The government has already incorporated food fortification into its 2025-2029 national development plan.

Provincial Government, UBT, and Traditional Leaders Push for Cultural Campus in North Kalimantan

The North Kalimantan provincial government, the University of Borneo Tarakan (UBT), and indigenous figures are advocating for the establishment of a dedicated cultural campus. The initiative aims to create an academic institution focused on preserving local wisdom and historical sites in the border region. A hybrid dialogue was held to map out concrete steps for human resource development and cross-sector collaboration.

Indonesia Fortunate to Have Solid Economy, Consumer Spending Proves Saviour

Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti stated that Indonesia is fortunate to possess a solid domestic economy, primarily driven by resilient household consumption. This strong consumer spending, which accounted for over half of GDP in the first quarter of 2026, serves as a crucial buffer against escalating global uncertainties, including the Iran-US conflict and rising oil prices.

Three NTB DPRD Gratification Defendants Deny Giving Money to Council Members

Three defendants in a corruption case involving the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) have denied allegations of giving money to several council members. During a trial at the Mataram Corruption Court, Indra Jaya Usman, Hamdan Kasim, and M. Nashib Ikroman each refuted witness testimonies claiming they had distributed funds. The case relates to the management of the Governor's discretionary fund for the 'Desa Berdaya' (Empowered Village) programme.

China to Expand Tiangong Space Station, Opening Significant Future Opportunities

China plans to expand its Tiangong space station from a T-shape to a cross-shaped configuration by adding a new multi-functional module. The expansion aims to accommodate growing scientific research demands, more frequent crewed and cargo missions, and increased international cooperation. Long-term plans envision a six-module station doubling its mass to 180 tonnes, transforming it into a comprehensive orbital complex.

London Climate Action Week 2026: Indonesia Introduces New Funding Sources for National Parks

Indonesia has announced a strategic shift from merely financing nature protection to investing in conservation as a national asset. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni unveiled a new Presidential Task Force for Innovative Financing for National Parks and the 'One Species, One Company' initiative to engage the private sector. The government is developing science-based investment prospectuses for thirteen priority national parks to attract global partnerships and close the conservation funding gap.

Quality, Environmental, and Safety Standards Become Foundation for Petrochemical Producer

PT Lotte Chemical Indonesia has secured Integrated Management System certification from BSI Group Indonesia, covering ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 standards. The certification, accredited both nationally and internationally, affirms the company's commitment to operational excellence in product quality, environmental compliance, and occupational health and safety. The achievement is positioned as a strategic foundation to bolster the reliability and competitiveness of Indonesia's national petrochemical industry.

Government Funds in Banks Begin Gradual Withdrawal by Purbaya, Moved to BI

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance has confirmed that excess budget funds (SAL) placed in state-owned banks are being gradually transferred back to Bank Indonesia. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa previously disclosed that around Rp 300 trillion of the total Rp 420 trillion SAL had been placed in commercial banks. The phased withdrawal aims to consolidate the government's cash reserves with the central bank.

Five Logo Designs for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day: Which One Is Your Pick?

The Indonesian government has shortlisted five logo designs for the 81st Independence Day anniversary, inviting public voting from 24 to 28 June 2026. The chosen logo will accompany the official theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur' (Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia). Each design incorporates distinct philosophical elements reflecting national unity, democracy, and progress.

Demonstration Disperses, Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan Towards Gambir Reopens

A demonstration by the Indonesian National Student Movement (GMNI) and Cipayung Jakarta Barat in Central Jakarta concluded peacefully, leading to the reopening of Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan. The protesters had demanded national economic recovery, evaluation of strategic programmes, and improved governance. Traffic flow returned to normal after police removed barriers and sanitation workers cleaned the area.

Is Ashura Really Haunted? The Virtues of the 10th of Muharram in Islam

The article clarifies misconceptions about the Islamic day of Ashura, often wrongly associated with bad luck and mysticism in some Indonesian traditions. It explains that in Islam, the 10th of Muharram is a noble day commemorating significant events of divine mercy and prophetic history. The piece encourages Muslims to replace superstitious fear with spiritual reflection and good deeds.

At PENAS XVII Peak, BULOG Affirms Support for Sustainable Food Self-Sufficiency

State logistics firm Perum BULOG has reinforced its commitment to sustainable food self-sufficiency during the peak event of the 2026 National Farmers and Fishermen Week (PENAS) in Gorontalo. President Prabowo Subianto emphasised that food security is the foundation of national sovereignty, while BULOG's CEO outlined the firm's strategic role in absorbing farmers' harvests and strengthening government food reserves. The event served as a platform to enhance collaboration across Indonesia's food sector stakeholders.

Layoff Storm Threatens Textile and Tobacco Industries

Indonesia's textile and tobacco sectors face mounting layoff pressures amid a weakening rupiah and tightening regulations. The textile industry has already seen over 23,000 job losses in the first five months of 2026, while the tobacco sector contracted by 4.05% year-on-year in Q1 2026. Proposed health ministry rules, including plain packaging and flavour bans, are fuelling industry fears of further production declines and illegal cigarette proliferation.

Hotel Sultan Emptied, Assets Moved to Cikarang Warehouse

The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) has begun removing movable assets belonging to former Hotel Sultan operator PT Indobuildco, transferring them to a storage facility in Cikarang. The operation, which started on 20 June 2026, is expected to take 30 days and follows a court-ordered eviction from the state-owned land. The process involves meticulous inventory, labelling, and coordination between the State Secretariat Ministry and PPKGBK to ensure orderly asset management.

Law Minister Signs Legal Cooperation with Russian Prosecutor General, Mutual Information Exchange

Indonesia's Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas and Russian Prosecutor General Aleksandr V. Gutsan have formalised a legal cooperation agreement in St. Petersburg. The pact facilitates the exchange of information, data access, research, and experts, building upon a Mutual Legal Assistance treaty signed six years prior. The meeting also reviewed progress on MLA requests, including the recent presidential approval for the extradition of a Russian national.

Japanese Experts Calculate the Date of Doomsday, Here's the Schedule

A study from Japan's Toho University projects the end of life on Earth around the year 1,000,002,021, long before the Sun expands into a Red Giant. However, researchers warn that a more immediate existential threat stems from climate change and global temperature rises, which could critically disrupt human life as early as 2030.

Confiscated House from Benny Tjokro Case Revitalised into Adhyaksa Chambers Office

The Attorney General's Office has repurposed a luxury asset seized from convicted corruption convict Benny Tjokrosaputro into the headquarters for the Adhyaksa Chambers, a new centre for alternative dispute resolution. The facility aims to strengthen the state attorney's role in mediation and arbitration, supporting legal certainty for national development.

Positive 2025 Performance: Pertamina Strengthens Energy Security and Transition

PT Pertamina reported a robust financial performance for the 2025 fiscal year, with net profit reaching USD 3.35 billion. The state-owned energy giant maintained oil and gas production above 1 million BOEPD while advancing its energy transition efforts, including a 3% increase in electricity production and a reduction of 2.27 million tonnes of CO₂e emissions. The company contributed Rp 360.76 trillion to the state and recorded significant domestic investment, reinforcing its role in national economic stability.

Ministry of Religious Affairs: AI Lacks a Teacher, Scholarly Lineage, and Moral Responsibility

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has cautioned that artificial intelligence cannot replace human roles in shaping character and Islamic scholarly traditions. Director Muchlis M Hanafi stressed that AI lacks a scholarly lineage (sanad), a teacher, and moral accountability, even as it accelerates access to religious texts. He urged that technological progress must not erode the younger generation's dedication to traditional learning and the teacher-student relationship.

Governor Pramono Urges Residents to Take Advantage of Vehicle Tax Amnesty

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has called on residents to utilise the ongoing vehicle tax amnesty programme, which waives administrative penalties until August 2026. The initiative, launched to mark Jakarta's 499th anniversary and Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, aims to boost compliance and regional revenue. Pramono warned that the programme may not be repeated, urging taxpayers to settle arrears promptly to avoid future penalties.

Central Papua Allocates Rp77.8 Billion for Free Education Programme

The Central Papua provincial government has earmarked Rp77.8 billion to fund free education for 58,920 secondary and special needs students in 2026. Governor Meki Nawipa stated the initiative aims to boost access and reduce dropout rates caused by economic hardship. The province is also investing in teacher certification and welfare to improve overall education quality.

Prabowo: Nothing More Urgent Than an Empty Stomach

President Prabowo Subianto defended his flagship free nutritious meal programme (MBG) at a national farmers and fishermen event in Gorontalo, asserting that combating hunger is the most critical priority. He challenged critics to ask rural communities and children directly about the programme's necessity, amid growing protests and a recent corruption scandal involving the National Nutrition Agency.

Hilman Latief Claims KPK Questioned Him on Hajj Quota Distribution Policy

Former Director General of Hajj and Umrah, Hilman Latief, stated he was questioned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) solely about hajj quota distribution policies, not about alleged illicit payments. This marks his third examination as a witness in a corruption case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The KPK has previously indicated it possesses evidence contradicting Hilman's denial of receiving money.

Ex-Trade Minister Gita Wirjawan: Indonesia Has the Modalities to Become a Reckoned Nation

Former Trade Minister Gita Wirjawan asserts that Indonesia possesses ample natural and demographic resources to lead in ASEAN, but lacks the courage to do so. He calls for a reorientation of leadership selection away from popularity metrics towards integrity, capability, and ethics. Wirjawan advocates for aggressive investment in education, including revolutionary improvements to teacher salaries, to cultivate a generation of innovators rather than passive technology users.

Ornamental Plants on Sleman Road Dividers Frequently Stolen, Perpetrators Hard to Find

Ornamental plants along a road divider in Depok, Sleman, have been repeatedly stolen, prompting the local environmental agency to seek preventive measures. The agency admits difficulty in identifying the thieves and plans to replace the attractive plants with less appealing, more economical varieties. Coordination with other government bodies, including the installation of CCTV, is also being considered to deter future thefts.

Foreign Ministry Stresses Dialogue to Address Chinese Business Complaints

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has emphasised the need for stronger dialogue to address concerns raised by Chinese investors about the country's business climate. A senior diplomat stated that direct engagement provides a crucial channel for feedback, following a formal complaint from the China Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia to President Prabowo Subianto. The chamber's letter cited issues including overly strict regulations, excessive law enforcement, and alleged corruption.

Government Communication Body Denies Conditioning Public Support for Free Nutritious Meals Demo

Indonesia's Government Communication Body (Bakom) has firmly denied allegations that the administration orchestrated demonstrations in support of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Officials stressed that the government respects all public opinions, both for and against its policies, while confirming ongoing improvements to the programme under new leadership.

Pandeglang Government Responds to Villagers' Blood Petition for Road Repair

The Pandeglang district government has responded to a viral protest by Cijaralang villagers who signed a petition in blood demanding repairs to a decades-old damaged road. Officials cited the lack of a Detailed Engineering Design (DED) as the main obstacle, pledging to allocate funds for the design in the upcoming budget revision. The Banten provincial government has also intervened, questioning the readiness of the project's planning documents.

MSCI Appreciates Indonesian Capital Market Reforms, Here's OJK's Response

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed MSCI's decision to retain the country's Emerging Market status in its 2026 review. The global index provider also acknowledged recent capital market reforms aimed at strengthening transparency and integrity. OJK views this recognition as a vote of confidence in Indonesia's economic resilience and a foundation for further enhancing the market's global competitiveness.

UN Nuclear Watchdog Confirms Iran Site Inspections Will Proceed

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that inspections of Iranian nuclear sites will take place, though no specific timeline has been set. The announcement follows an initial agreement between Tehran and Washington aimed at ending Middle East tensions, which explicitly mentions IAEA oversight of nuclear activities. Discussions on the timing and locations of the inspections are ongoing in collaboration with the Iranian government.

Community Organisation Members Beat Man to Death in North Sumatra in Case of Mistaken Identity

Six members of a community organisation in Pematangsiantar, North Sumatra, have been arrested for fatally assaulting a 24-year-old man who police say was an innocent bystander. The attack stemmed from a dispute over a tattoo payment, but the victim was wrongly accused of being a friend of the tattoo artist. The suspects are now in custody and face legal proceedings for the fatal beating.

Rumours of Two Automotive Giants Relocating from Indonesia to Vietnam: Ministry of Industry Responds

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has refuted rumours that two major automotive component manufacturers are relocating their production facilities from East Java to Vietnam. Following a direct investigation, the ministry confirmed that both companies, with a combined investment exceeding Rp 1.9 trillion, are operating normally and have no plans for relocation or layoffs. The government emphasised the false reports risk disrupting the automotive supply chain and damaging the country's manufacturing investment climate.

Prabowo Praises Military and Police Chiefs for Supporting Food Self-Sufficiency: 'This is Our Achievement'

President Prabowo Subianto lauded the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and National Police (Polri) for their role in achieving record food production, including rice and corn, during his administration. Speaking at a national farmers' and fishers' event in Gorontalo, he highlighted the unique involvement of security forces in agriculture as a strategic factor in Indonesia's rise. The President also expressed gratitude to his ministerial team for their contributions to the food self-sufficiency milestone.

MARI to Strengthen Digital Ecosystem, Transforming Noice into Audio-Visual Platform

PT Mahaka Radio Integra Tbk (MARI) is allocating a significant portion of a US$1 million investment to develop its digital business, focusing on transforming its Noice platform from audio-only to audio-visual. The strategy aims to adapt to shifting media consumption trends towards multimedia and interactive content, with a strong emphasis on strengthening local content. The company reported net revenue of Rp70.32 billion in 2025 and views digital business development as a key driver for long-term sustainable growth.

Job Fair in West Jakarta Attracts Disabled Job Seekers Seeking Genuine Opportunities

A West Jakarta job fair saw participation from disabled job seekers, including a 53-year-old man who travelled from Depok to highlight the need for meaningful employment beyond administrative roles. Organisers affirmed their commitment to inclusivity, providing sign language interpreters and requiring companies to report on hiring outcomes to ensure the event is not merely a formality.

Minister Fadli Zon Launches Gala Cerita Rakyat to Preserve Indonesian Folklore Through Oral Tradition

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon announced the Gala Cerita Rakyat Indonesia 2026 programme, which aims to preserve the nation's cultural identity by revitalising the oral tradition of storytelling. The initiative successfully gathered 1,737 video submissions from 2,797 participants across 30 provinces, using digital platforms to document and share folklore. The programme is designed to strengthen the character and imagination of the younger generation while ensuring traditional narratives remain accessible in the modern era.

Bandung City Council Ratifies Regulation on Preventing Risky Sexual Behaviour

The Bandung City Council has officially passed a regional regulation aimed at preventing and controlling risky sexual behaviour and sexual deviance. The regulation focuses on education, rehabilitation, and stakeholder collaboration rather than criminalisation, addressing rising concerns over HIV/AIDS, underage marriage, and the impact of social media on youth. It is framed as a long-term social investment to protect children, strengthen family resilience, and uphold the city's moral and cultural values.

Indonesia, Russia deepen legal cooperation with new agreement

Indonesia and Russia have signed a new agreement to enhance legal cooperation, enabling information exchange, joint research, and the movement of legal experts. The pact serves as a technical derivative of the 2019 mutual legal assistance treaty, under which Russia has submitted seven requests to Jakarta. The deal was signed during Indonesian Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas's visit to the Saint Petersburg International Legal Forum.

Genesis: Bengkulu loses 712 hectares of coastal land to abrasion

A study by the Genesis Foundation reveals that Bengkulu Province has lost 712.81 hectares of coastal land to abrasion between 2002 and 2024, affecting 109 villages. The foundation also identified 190.24 kilometres of actively eroding coastline, threatening settlements, public facilities, and ecosystems. The findings aim to inform multi-stakeholder discussions on sustainable and measurable coastal protection measures.

Attempted Murder Suspect in Malaka Arrested in Kupang

A 22-year-old man suspected of attempted murder in Malaka Regency has been arrested in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. The suspect, identified as ANB, was apprehended by the provincial police's criminal investigation unit after fleeing the scene of the April 2026 incident. Police have reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing all criminal suspects attempting to evade legal proceedings.

RI envoy underscores three priorities for ASEAN vaccine ecosystem

Indonesia's envoy outlined three key priorities for building a regional vaccine ecosystem in ASEAN, emphasising the need for sustainable demand, regulatory harmonisation, and enhanced production capacity. The initiative aims to strengthen pandemic preparedness across the 650-million-strong region by creating an accessible supply chain and preventing technology monopolies. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stressed that Indonesia's large population requires a resilient health ecosystem to withstand future global supply chain disruptions.

Russia Will Not Support Temporary Solutions to Ukraine Crisis, Says Foreign Minister Lavrov

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has stated that Moscow will not endorse any temporary fixes or imposed ultimatums regarding the Ukraine crisis. He warned the West must abandon its military, political, and ideological expansion into Russia's vital interest zones. Lavrov maintained that a diplomatic resolution remains possible and reaffirmed Russia's commitment to previously reached agreements.

KPK Hands Over IDR 153 Billion to PT Taspen from ANS Kosasih Asset Seizure

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred IDR 153 billion in seized assets to state-owned insurer PT Taspen, the victim in a fictitious investment case involving its former CEO. The handover, executed on Wednesday, includes cash, luxury goods, and vehicles, bringing total asset recovery for PT Taspen to over IDR 1 trillion. The seized luxury items and properties will be auctioned to further offset the replacement money owed by the convicted former director.

Mass Exodus from Google: Many Users Switch to Alternatives

Google's dominance in search is being challenged as users increasingly migrate to alternatives like DuckDuckGo, Microsoft Bing, and AI-powered chatbots such as ChatGPT. The shift is driven by a surge in AI adoption and privacy-focused tools, though public scepticism about AI remains high. Google is also facing a brain drain, with key talent departing for rivals like OpenAI and Anthropic amid fierce industry competition.

Not Yet UK PM, Analyst: Burnham is a Chameleon, His Popularity Will Plummet

Andy Burnham is poised to become the UK's seventh prime minister in under a decade following Keir Starmer's resignation as Labour leader. An analyst warns that despite Burnham's current momentum, he faces deep internal party divisions and is labelled a political chameleon whose popularity may soon collapse. Starmer stepped down after months of pressure and poor local election results, with Health Secretary Wes Streeting backing Burnham for the leadership contest scheduled for 9 July.

Pharmacy Higher Education Must Transform into a National Health Innovation Hub

Indonesia's pharmacy faculties are urged to evolve from mere teaching institutions into national health innovation hubs to address drug import dependency and technological shifts. The launch of the PUSIDI innovation centre at Universitas Islam Indonesia, in partnership with BRIN, exemplifies a new model integrating research, industry, and public policy. This transformation is deemed essential for achieving the nation's 2045 developed country vision and pharmaceutical self-reliance.

KPK Transfers Noel Ebenezer and 10 Convicts in K3 Certification Extortion Case to Sukamiskin Prison

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has executed the imprisonment of former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan and ten other convicts at Sukamiskin Prison in Bandung. The group was convicted in a high-profile extortion case involving the issuance of occupational safety and health (K3) certification within the Ministry of Manpower. The transfer was carried out after all parties accepted the court's ruling, making the verdict legally binding.

BPOM and Tourism Ministry Collaborate to Strengthen Health-Based Tourism

Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) and the Ministry of Tourism are joining forces to develop the nation's health tourism sector. The initiative includes providing special access schemes for certain medications at international-standard hospitals and mentoring herbal product SMEs in tourist villages. The collaboration aims to capitalise on the rapidly growing global wellness and medical tourism markets, projected to be worth trillions of dollars.

Russia Calls Nuclear Weapons the Only Deterrent Against Global War

The Kremlin has declared nuclear arms the sole safeguard preventing a global conflict, amid the expiration of the last major arms control treaty with the United States. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov warned that emerging non-nuclear technologies could eventually match nuclear destructive power, while prospects for a new pact remain uncertain due to disagreements over including China and European nuclear states.

Tapera Committee Meeting Results: Maximum Mortgage Tenor Extended to 40 Years

Indonesia's Tapera Committee has approved extending the maximum tenor for subsidised mortgages to 40 years for low-income earners. The meeting also fixed interest rates at 5% for subsidised landed houses and 6% for subsidised flats, while the housing microcredit ceiling was raised to Rp50 trillion. These measures aim to boost affordable housing delivery in line with President Prabowo's directives.

AGO Rejects Justice Collaborator Status for MBG Scandal Suspect, Urges Full Disclosure

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has rejected a justice collaborator application from former BGN deputy head Sony Sonjaya, deeming him a main perpetrator in the MBG corruption case. Despite the rejection, investigators are urging all suspects and witnesses to fully disclose the corruption mechanisms and involved parties. The AGO emphasised the investigation's importance for improving governance and transparency in the MBG programme.

Clash at OKI Palm Oil Plantation Leaves One Dead, Two Injured

A violent confrontation at a palm oil plantation in Ogan Komering Ilir, South Sumatra, resulted in the death of one resident and gunshot injuries to two others. The clash, which also injured a police officer, reportedly began after security forces seized vehicles carrying allegedly stolen palm fruit. Authorities are now focused on restoring order and conducting a transparent investigation into the incident.

DKI Jakarta Governor urges residents to use vehicle tax amnesty: 'It may not happen every year'

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has called on residents to take advantage of the ongoing vehicle tax amnesty programme, warning that such relief may not be offered annually. The policy, tied to the city's 499th anniversary and Indonesia's Independence Day, waives administrative penalties on overdue vehicle taxes and title transfer fees until August.

Ornamental Plants in Maguwoharjo's New Park Become Regular Target for Thieves

Ornamental plants in a newly developed park near Maguwoharjo Stadium in Sleman have been repeatedly stolen, prompting the local environmental agency to seek a solution. The agency plans to replace the attractive, higher-value plants with more economical varieties to deter theft. They are also coordinating with other government bodies to increase patrols and potentially install CCTV.

State Deemed Not Yet to Recognise Indigenous Peoples' Right to Veto

Academics from Universitas Gadjah Mada have warned that the draft Law on Indigenous Peoples, slated for the 2026 National Legislation Programme, still contains fundamental weaknesses. The absence of a robust Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) mechanism in national law is cited as the root cause of ongoing conflicts and land dispossession. Experts argue the bill must transform from a mere compensation instrument into a genuine expression of sovereignty for indigenous communities.

SPPG Volunteer Work System Deemed in Violation of Labour Law

A labour activist has alleged that the volunteer work scheme within the National Nutrition Agency's (BGN) service units violates Indonesia's Labour Law. The critique centres on the classification of workers as 'volunteers' despite them receiving daily wages and following work orders. The activist argues this is a deliberate misnomer to bypass formal employment contracts.

Schneider Electric's Strategy to Boost Clean Energy Growth in Indonesia

Schneider Electric is targeting Indonesia's clean energy market through its SEEAA II fund, aiming to bridge the critical early-stage funding gap for startups. The fund employs patient capital, technical support, and blended finance to help innovative firms survive the 'valley of death' and reach commercial scale. Indonesia is seen as a strategic market due to its rising energy demand, archipelagic geography favouring decentralised solutions, and significant decarbonisation potential.

Drug Lord Koko Erwin Transferred to Bima District Attorney's Office

Suspected drug lord Koko Erwin has been formally transferred to the Bima District Attorney's Office, joining two other suspects already in custody. The handover included evidence such as cash and vehicles, and follows the earlier transfers of former local police officials implicated in the case.

House of Representatives Notes Business Complaints on DMO Coal Price, Here's the Reaction

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has acknowledged complaints from domestic coal mining companies regarding the unchanged US$70 per tonne Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) price cap since 2018. Businesses argue the flat rate fails to account for varying coal qualities and production costs. While open to evaluation, the DPR insists the DMO policy remains crucial for securing national energy supply and balancing domestic needs against lucrative export markets.

Discovery of 100 Fictitious SPPG Sites in Cilacap, DPR Says MBG Corruption Suspects Will Increase

The House of Representatives (DPR) has responded to the discovery of 100 fictitious Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) kitchens for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Cilacap. Lawmakers believe the administrative fraud, involving daily payments for non-existent facilities, constitutes a legal violation requiring firm action. They expect the corruption case within the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to ensnare more suspects beyond the three already named.

Kejagung: The Hunt for Eddy Tansil's Assets Is Not Over

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) is continuing its pursuit of assets belonging to fugitive corruption convict Eddy Tansil, who has been on the run for 30 years. Despite recently securing Rp51.6 billion in cash and several properties, authorities are targeting additional assets to fulfil a court-ordered Rp500 billion restitution payment. Tansil was convicted in the 1990s for embezzling funds from Bank Bapindo, and his whereabouts remain unknown despite efforts to locate him.

Police Examine 28 Witnesses in Bantul Church Service Disruption Case

The Yogyakarta Regional Police have questioned 28 individuals in connection with the forced disruption of a worship service at Gereja Misi Sejahtera (GMS) in Sewon, Bantul. Investigators are preparing to hold a case conference to determine suspects, while local authorities confirmed they had attempted to prevent the incident. The case has drawn public attention after reports of intolerance and violence circulated on social media.

Corporate Banter and the Cost of Insensitivity

The trend of 'brand banter' on social media, where corporations adopt casual and humorous personas, is backfiring for Indonesian state-owned enterprises and sensitive sectors. Recent online activity by Pertamina and a funeral supplies brand has sparked public criticism, highlighting a growing disconnect between playful digital engagement and the public's demand for empathy during times of reputational strain.

Tax Office Uncovers Business Splitting Scheme to Retain 0.5% MSME Tax Rate

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has identified a pattern of business owners deliberately creating multiple new entities to continue benefiting from the 0.5% final income tax rate for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The findings, which include individuals controlling over 50 companies, prompted the government to revoke this facility for limited liability companies and CVs under the new PP 20 regulation. The policy change aims to curb abuse and encourage genuine business growth, while the 0.5% rate remains permanently available for individual taxpayers.

Israeli Media Says Turkey Now a Greater Strategic Challenge Than Iran

An Israeli newspaper analysis identifies Turkey as a greater long-term strategic challenge than Iran, citing Ankara's rapidly advancing military capabilities and defence industry self-sufficiency. The assessment highlights Turkey's position as NATO's second-largest military power and its growing naval strength as a potential threat to Israeli security interests.

Tomy Winata Boosts Investment Optimism, Says Indonesia Holds Global Prestige Value

Artha Graha Peduli founder Tomy Winata has urged business players to remain optimistic about Indonesia's economic prospects, citing the country's strategic geographic position and commodity hub status as key assets. A senior researcher supports this view, noting that Indonesia's large domestic consumer base acts as a natural buffer against global recessionary shocks. The positive narrative is seen as providing a psychological boost to capital markets, though structural challenges in manufacturing, logistics, and green financing remain.

Pertamina's Oil and Gas Production Remains Above 1 Million BOEPD in 2025

PT Pertamina maintained its oil and gas production above 1 million barrels of oil equivalent per day throughout 2025, underpinning national energy security. The state-owned energy firm also reported improved refinery yields, a 4 per cent rise in gas transmission, and a 3 per cent increase in renewable electricity production. These operational results were presented as a foundation for both sustaining energy supply and advancing Indonesia's decarbonisation and energy transition agenda.

AMALI Urges Government to Fund Pesantren Proportionally

The Association of Ma'had Aly Indonesia (AMALI) has called on the government to provide proportional funding for pesantren-based higher education, arguing that ambiguous legal phrasing has led to discrimination. They highlighted that Ma'had Aly lecturers lack access to certification and national identification numbers, while students are excluded from state scholarship programmes like Kartu Indonesia Pintar (KIP) Kuliah. AMALI is also pushing for the establishment of a dedicated endowment fund and a Directorate General of Pesantren to improve governance and financial support.

Sony Sanjaya Rejected as Justice Collaborator; Expert Sees Indication He Is Main Perpetrator in MBG Corruption

The Attorney General’s Office has rejected Sony Sanjaya’s request to become a justice collaborator in the alleged corruption case involving the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG). An anti-corruption researcher says the decision is understandable if prosecutors view Sanjaya as the main perpetrator, though the public still hopes the investigation will expose other, possibly more significant, actors in the large-scale scheme.

Gen Z Launches Nayan Project to Educate on Early Colour Blindness Detection

A 16-year-old Indonesian student has launched the Nayan Project to raise awareness about early colour blindness detection, citing low public consciousness. The initiative, which debuted at a Bandung primary school, aims to expand nationally and advocate for BPJS Kesehatan coverage of colour blindness tests. Medical experts stress that early diagnosis allows children to adapt and thrive, rather than limiting their potential.

Pramono Summons Ojol Management to Discuss Parking Solutions That Don't Obstruct Pavements

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung plans to meet with online motorcycle taxi (ojol) company management to address the widespread issue of drivers parking on pavements and public spaces. He stressed that managing ojol parking cannot be the sole responsibility of the Jakarta Provincial Government. Proposed solutions include creating designated parking enclaves to prevent disruption to pedestrians, particularly in newly renovated areas like Jalan HR Rasuna Said.

Government Affirms No New Tax for Online Merchants

The Indonesian government has clarified that designating e-commerce platforms as tax collectors does not constitute a new tax for online businesses. The policy aims to create equal treatment between offline and online merchants while simplifying tax administration. Officials confirmed that existing income thresholds, such as the exemption for annual turnover below Rp500 million, remain unchanged.

Pertamina's Contribution to State Revenue Reaches Rp360.76 Trillion in 2025

Indonesia's state-owned energy giant Pertamina contributed Rp360.76 trillion to state coffers in the 2025 fiscal year through taxes, non-tax revenue, and dividends. The company also reported a net profit of Rp55.20 trillion and domestic investments of Rp97.20 trillion, underscoring its strategic role in both energy security and the national economy. The figures were announced during the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in Jakarta.

KKP Reveals Indonesia's Fisheries Sector Performance Remains Solid

Indonesia's fisheries sector continues to show robust performance despite global economic headwinds, with annual capture fisheries production averaging 7.5 million tonnes and aquaculture at 5.5 million tonnes. The sector maintains a strong trade surplus, with exports around US$6.5 billion against imports of roughly US$600 million. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is advancing thematic village aquaculture programmes and modern shrimp farming in Waingapu to bolster future productivity and international competitiveness.

Private Universities Face Closure Threat as Students Defect to State Campuses

The Association of Indonesian Private Universities (Aptisi) warns that many private institutions are at risk of collapse after losing up to 40 per cent of their new students to state universities. The mass exodus occurs when students who have already registered and paid fees at private campuses withdraw after being accepted into state university independent admission pathways. Aptisi has called the phenomenon a widespread fact, not merely an issue, and criticised the extended registration periods of state universities for exacerbating the problem.

Pertamina Posts Rp1,167 Trillion Revenue, Energy Performance Remains Robust

Indonesian state energy firm Pertamina recorded revenue of Rp1,167 trillion in the 2025 fiscal year, underpinned by stable oil and gas production. The company contributed Rp360.76 trillion to the state through taxes, non-tax revenue, and dividends, while advancing decarbonisation efforts that cut emissions by 2.27 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent. Management emphasised the results reflect strong fundamentals and a commitment to national energy security and the low-carbon transition.