Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

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The 14th Padjadjaran Public Relations Fair Voices Child Development Without Violence

The 14th Padjadjaran Public Relations Fair (PPRF) convened students from across Indonesia to devise communication strategies addressing domestic violence against children. The event featured talks by child protection officials and competitions challenging participants to create public relations campaigns and podcasts aimed at breaking cycles of harmful parenting. The initiative underscores a national urgency to eliminate emotional and physical violence within Indonesian families through strategic communication.

Indonesia targets US$121 billion EV battery investment push

Indonesia is courting global investors with an estimated US$121 billion opportunity to develop an integrated electric vehicle battery ecosystem, leveraging its abundant reserves of nickel, bauxite, manganese, and copper. The government aims to become a top-five global EV battery producer by 2045 through a downstream strategy that could multiply nickel's value 67-fold and generate over 3 million jobs. Officials highlighted that localising the supply chain would reduce costs and attract major battery manufacturers, with total long-term investment across all downstream sectors projected to reach US$618 billion.

Bogor Regent Promotes Development of Southern and Western Railway Networks

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto is advancing plans for new railway lines in the southern and western parts of the regency to improve connectivity and ease chronic traffic congestion. The proposals include a line from Gadog to the Puncak tourist area and corridors linking Jasinga, Tenjo, and Parung Panjang. The initiative aims to stimulate economic growth, attract investment, and enhance commuter mobility through an integrated and sustainable rail system.

Government Opens Polling for 81st Indonesian Independence Day Logo, Here's the Official Link

The Indonesian government has launched a public poll to select the official logo for the 81st Independence Day celebrations in 2026. Voting is open from 24 to 28 June 2026 via a dedicated website, with participants eligible for prizes including event tickets, souvenirs, and education funds. The five shortlisted designs were curated from an open call managed by the Indonesian Graphic Design Association (ADGI).

KPK to Auction Noel's Ducati Scrambler and Other Luxury Assets from Manpower Ministry Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is preparing to auction seized assets, including a Ducati Scrambler motorcycle and a Baic car belonging to former deputy manpower minister Immanuel Ebenezer. The auction, scheduled for 9 December 2026 to coincide with World Anti-Corruption Day, will also include luxury goods from ten other convicts in the K3 certification bribery case. The convicts, including Noel who received a 4.5-year sentence, have been transferred to Sukamiskin Prison in Bandung.

Airlangga: Data centres key to unlocking 8 percent economic growth

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has identified data centre development as a critical driver for achieving Indonesia's target of over 8 percent economic growth. He emphasised that robust data centre infrastructure is essential for advancing the digital economy and artificial intelligence, which are projected to be future growth engines.

Urine Sample Dispute: Parking Attendant in North Jakarta Stabs Mall Employee with Nail Scissors

A parking attendant in Koja, North Jakarta, has been arrested after stabbing a fast-food outlet employee with nail scissors. The altercation erupted when the victim made a crude joke after the suspect requested a urine sample from a pregnant colleague for a friend's job application. The suspect now faces charges under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Tells Papua IPDN Cadets Leaders Must Have Ideology, Strategy and Tactics

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto stressed that future regional leaders and bureaucrats require a strong foundation of ideology, strategy, and tactics. He warned against transactional politics and urged leaders to base decisions on public interest rather than popularity. Bima also shared his experience of boosting Bogor's local revenue by 167.9 per cent through consistent, community-focused programmes.

DPR Commission II to Gather Aspirations from Non-Parliamentary Parties for Election Bill

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) Commission II plans to consult non-parliamentary political parties next week regarding the revision of the Election Law. Key issues to be discussed include the parliamentary threshold, presidential threshold, and electoral district seat allocations.

Attorney General's Office to Continue Pursuing Eddy Tansil's Assets Until Obligations Are Settled

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has pledged to continue hunting the assets of fugitive Eddy Tansil to recover state losses. Only Rp 50 billion of the Rp 500 billion replacement obligation has been secured so far. The office is currently investigating additional assets linked to the convicted Bank Bapindo fraudster.

Cyberbullying of Oma Grace on TikTok Live Highlights Lack of Digital Empathy

An elderly Indonesian woman, Oma Grace, faced vicious cyberbullying while selling handicrafts on TikTok Live, prompting social media observers to highlight a critical deficit in digital empathy. Despite receiving hateful comments, she responded with patience and prayers for her abusers. Experts argue the incident reflects a broader societal failure to respect elderly individuals bravely adapting to new technology.

House Commission III Demands Chemical Castration for Perpetrator of Abuse and False Imprisonment in Bandung

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has called for the perpetrator of a brutal false imprisonment and abuse case in Bandung to be chemically castrated. The lawmaker argued the severity of the crimes, which lasted approximately three years and left the female victim blind, warrants maximum punishment to deter future violence. He also urged the police to investigate other potential victims and establish a special complaint post.

BSKDN Chief Says Innovation is the Answer to Regional Fiscal Challenges

The head of the Ministry of Home Affairs' domestic strategy agency has stated that innovation is the primary solution to the fiscal pressures facing regional governments. He emphasised that heavy reliance on central transfers and limited local revenue capacity make innovation a survival strategy rather than a mere creative option. The government is using the Regional Innovation Index to measure performance and encourage the replication of successful practices across Indonesia.

Rare Bipartisan Rebuke: US Senate Urges Trump to End Military Operations in Iran

The US Senate has passed a symbolic concurrent resolution directing President Donald Trump to halt military actions against Iran, marking a rare bipartisan challenge to the White House. The 50-48 vote reflects growing Congressional scepticism over the conflict, which began with US and Israeli strikes in February, and comes as polls show three-quarters of Americans doubt the war's value. The resolution does not require Trump's signature, and he has dismissed it as 'ill-timed and meaningless' while negotiations with Tehran continue.

Hotel Sultan Emptied: Beds, TVs, and Gamelan Instruments Loaded onto Trucks

The court-ordered eviction of Hotel Sultan in Central Jakarta has commenced, with workers seen packing and removing furniture, electronics, and traditional gamelan instruments. The items are being transported to designated warehouses in Cikarang, with the legal representative aiming to complete the full clearance within one month.

Ambassador: Russia ready for peace deal with Ukraine

Russia's ambassador to Indonesia, Sergey Tolchenov, stated that Moscow has been prepared for a peace agreement with Ukraine since 2022 and remains open to dialogue. He claimed a previous deal was derailed by former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who persuaded Kyiv to continue fighting. Russia insists any comprehensive and lasting settlement must address its core security demands, including Ukraine's non-aligned status and recognition of territorial changes.

Surakarta Police Handle Case of Alleged Sexual Harassment of SPG by Primary School Teacher

Surakarta Police are investigating a primary school teacher accused of sexually harassing a sales promotion girl (SPG) at a supermarket in Solo. The suspect, identified by the initials BSN, reportedly admitted to frequently watching adult films and imitating content from social media platform X. Authorities have ensured psychological and legal support for the victim, who suffered shock and subsequently lost her job.

Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Nabire Absorbs 658 Local Workers, Boosts Economy

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in Nabire, Central Papua, has absorbed 658 local workers, including 180 indigenous Papuans, across 14 service units. The initiative is generating an estimated monthly economic turnover of up to IDR 2.63 billion solely from employee salaries. Beyond improving nutrition for students and vulnerable groups, the programme is credited with reducing unemployment and providing formal employment to former street-level extortionists.

IHSG Closes Down 3.56% as Investors Shun Risky Assets

The Indonesia Stock Exchange composite index (IHSG) plunged 3.56% to 5,883.88 on Wednesday, driven by global risk-off sentiment and a weakening rupiah that briefly touched Rp18,000 per US dollar. Analysts cited external pressures from US Treasury yields and a strong dollar, alongside domestic uncertainty over fiscal policy implementation, as key factors prompting profit-taking and cautious investor behaviour.

Majapahit-era Mangkunegaran Palace Collection to be Exhibited at US Museum

A collection of high-value Majapahit-era artefacts from the Mangkunegaran Palace is set to be displayed at a Smithsonian museum in Washington, D.C. The exhibition is part of a cultural diplomacy initiative aimed at strengthening people-to-people ties between Indonesia and the United States. The collaboration also includes plans for performing arts showcases and technical support for digitising and preserving the palace's heritage assets.

Record: Ebola in Congo Surpasses 1,000 Cases in a Month

The World Health Organization reports the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has set a record for the highest number of confirmed cases in the first month of any African outbreak. The Bundibugyo ebolavirus strain has caused over 1,000 cases and 267 deaths, spreading into crowded displacement camps. Meanwhile, Kenya's health minister has halted construction of a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility following public protests and a court order.

Karangasem Government Terminates Two PPPK, Nine Resign

The Karangasem Regency Government has extended contracts for thousands of government employees but dismissed two for serious violations, including drug involvement and unexplained absence. A further nine contract workers resigned voluntarily, citing health issues or better job opportunities. The regent emphasised strict disciplinary measures to ensure quality public service.

Indonesia Consumer: Navigating Generational Investment Opportunities After the US-Iran War

Maybank Sekuritas maintains a NEUTRAL rating on Indonesia's consumer sector, citing potential post-war easing of oil prices and exchange rate pressures as positive catalysts. The report highlights significant sensitivity to lower input costs and a stronger rupiah, which could boost earnings for selected stocks. With bearish consensus expectations and attractive dividend yields, the sector presents re-rating opportunities, particularly for top picks with clear business execution.

Pasar Senen Station Becomes Indonesia's Busiest Long-Distance Train Station

Pasar Senen Station in Jakarta recorded the highest passenger volume for long-distance trains in Indonesia during January to May 2026, with over 3.15 million movements. The station surpassed other major hubs like Gambir and Yogyakarta, highlighting its critical role in intercity connectivity across Java. KAI attributes the high traffic to the station's broad appeal across various passenger segments and its strong integration with local transport networks.

DPR Urges Miners to Prioritise Domestic Coal Supply

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has called on coal mining companies to prioritise domestic supply to prevent power plant disruptions. The current Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) policy requires a minimum 25% allocation for the local market, but lawmakers are urging a review of the flat US$70 per tonne price cap, which miners argue is unfair across different coal grades.

Jakarta Receives 499 Land Use Certificates Worth Rp22.2 Trillion as Anniversary Gift

The Jakarta Provincial Government has received 499 Hak Pakai (Right of Use) certificates from the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, covering 85 hectares of land valued at Rp22.2 trillion. The handover, marking Jakarta's 499th anniversary, brings the total value of certified provincial assets to Rp124.25 trillion. The initiative aims to strengthen legal certainty, improve public asset governance, and support regional revenue through integrated land, population, and tax data systems.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Urges Local Potential to Become Regional Identity and Economic Driver

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on regional heads to forge distinct local identities by leveraging unique potential and wisdom, arguing that Indonesia's diversity must be translated into development strength. He warned against uniform development patterns and stressed that effective city branding requires a blend of current image, historical narrative, and future vision. The minister praised several regions for breaking away from homogeneity and highlighted the need for a robust innovation ecosystem encompassing research, regulation, and funding to institutionalise differentiation.

Ministry of Human Rights and IKN Authority Explore Human Rights-Based City Concept

Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights and the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) Authority are exploring the integration of human rights principles into the development of the new capital in East Kalimantan. The initiative aims to ensure inclusive development, worker welfare, and equitable distribution of benefits for surrounding communities. The concept is seen as aligning with IKN's vision of becoming a 'World City for All'.

Prabowo credits farmers, fishermen for 2024 election victory

President Prabowo Subianto has attributed his 2024 election win to the support of farmers and fishermen, citing his long-standing ties with agricultural organisations. He emphasised his political perseverance through four previous defeats was driven by a commitment to improving welfare in the agriculture and fisheries sectors. Prabowo also reaffirmed his government's dedication to strengthening these sectors as part of broader efforts to enhance national food security and public welfare.

Anti-Corruption Unit Raids Juanda Customs Office, Seizes Cash and Documents in Alleged Used iPhone Import Case

Indonesia's anti-corruption police unit, Kortastipidkor, has raided the Juanda Customs Office in Sidoarjo as part of an investigation into the alleged illegal import of used mobile phones. Investigators seized customs documents, electronic data, and hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash. The probe centres on suspected document manipulation and bribery of state officials to facilitate the smuggling of used iPhones between 2024 and 2026.

Story of Sekolah Rakyat Supporting Risky's Courage to Realise His Dreams

A 12-year-old boy from Medan, who once peddled fish to support his family, has found new hope through the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. The free school has not only taught him to read and write but also transformed his confidence and discipline. His grandparents, who previously feared they could not afford his education, now express profound gratitude for the life-changing opportunity.

Student Protest at Monas Closes Jl Medan Merdeka Selatan Towards Gambir

Students from GMNI and other groups staged a demonstration in Central Jakarta, temporarily closing a major road, to criticise the government's free nutritious meal programme and broader policy issues. The protesters argued the meal programme's large budget should be redirected to education and called for economic recovery, governance reforms, and the protection of civil supremacy. They also urged transparent deliberation of the Police and TNI bills to prevent the erosion of democratic principles established since the 1998 Reformasi.

Vehicle Containing Body at Juanda Airport Suspected to Be Bangkalan Regency Official Car

A woman's decomposing body was discovered inside a black Toyota Innova at Surabaya's Juanda International Airport car park. The vehicle, bearing red government plates, is suspected to be an official car belonging to the Bangkalan Regency administration in Madura, East Java. Police are investigating the identity of the deceased and the cause of death, while the airport management has pledged full support for the inquiry.

Sakuranesia brings UI, UGM researchers to Japan AI Climate Forum

Indonesian researchers from UI and UGM presented AI-driven climate resilience and disaster mitigation studies at a forum in Japan. Their work covered cyclone impacts on Sumatra's biodiversity, AI for energy transition, and machine learning for hydrometeorological forecasting. The participation marks a milestone in Indonesia's scientific diplomacy and opens avenues for global collaboration on early warning systems.

Jumbo Transaction of IDR 18.27 T at ARCI, New Controller Enters

A massive internal restructuring transaction worth IDR 18.27 trillion has occurred at gold mining issuer PT Archi Indonesia Tbk (ARCI), involving the transfer of 16.6 billion shares. The transaction resulted in PT Rajawali Kapital Emas becoming the new controlling shareholder with an 83.65% stake, while PT Rajawali Corpora divested its entire holding. Following the news, ARCI's share price fell 7.01% to IDR 995.

Lembah Anai Landslide Cuts Off Padang-Bukittinggi Access

A landslide in the Lembah Anai area has severed the main road connecting Padang and Bukittinggi in West Sumatra. Local authorities are urging motorists to use alternative routes while emergency crews work to clear debris. The incident highlights the region's vulnerability to hydrometeorological disasters, with officials calling for heightened public vigilance.

Social Media and the Transformation of Consumer Behaviour in the Digital Era

Social media platforms have fundamentally altered consumer behaviour, shifting information gathering from traditional advertising to peer reviews and influencer content. This has created a more critical and impulsive consumer base, presenting both opportunities for wider market reach and challenges from heightened competition and rapid reputational risks for businesses. Companies must now adopt transparent, creative digital strategies to build loyalty in an increasingly interactive marketplace.

Rupiah Nears Rp 18,000 After MSCI Maintains Indonesia's Status

The Indonesian rupiah weakened towards the Rp 18,000 per US dollar mark following MSCI's decision to retain the country's Emerging Market status, albeit with a warning about a potential downgrade. The market reacted cautiously to the extended review of Indonesia's market accessibility, which remains a key concern for international investors. Meanwhile, the government announced a Rp 26.34 trillion stimulus package for the second half of 2026 to bolster the domestic economy against global uncertainties.

Netanyahu's 'Kill Your Enemy Before He Kills You' Doctrine to Military, Inspired by Talmud

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly outlined a security doctrine based on pre-emptive strikes, citing a Talmudic principle. His remarks, made at a conference in occupied East Jerusalem, have reignited debate over the moral and political boundaries of Israel's military strategy. The doctrine frames aggressive initiative as a rational response to existential threats.

Government Disburses Rp6.26 Trillion for 2026 National Internship Programme

The Indonesian government has allocated Rp6.26 trillion as part of its 2026 economic stimulus package to fund a National Internship Programme and vocational training. The initiative targets 150,000 interns and 270,000 vocational training participants, including vocational school graduates and laid-off workers. The programme, set to begin in July 2026, aims to enhance workforce skills and mitigate unemployment through digital platforms and potential cost-sharing with private companies.

Campus Emergency Management: UAD Holds Refreshment Training for Security Personnel

Universitas Ahmad Dahlan (UAD) has conducted a refreshment training programme for its security staff to enhance service quality and emergency preparedness. The training focused on excellent service, protocol, and emergency handling under the theme 'Friendly, Responsive, and Adaptive'. The university emphasised that security personnel serve as the frontline representatives of the institution's professionalism and Islamic values.

Iran Calls Peace Deal a Declaration of America's Defeat

Iran's chief negotiator has characterised the Islamabad-brokered peace agreement with the United States as a 'declaration of America's defeat', crediting Iranian resistance rather than external pressure. Speaking in Baku, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also called for the withdrawal of all foreign military forces from the Middle East, arguing they are a source of instability rather than sustainable security.

Ministry Denies Automotive Component Relocation Rumours, Rp1.9 Trillion Investment Remains Secure

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has refuted reports that two automotive component manufacturers are relocating to Vietnam, confirming both companies continue normal operations in East Java. The firms, which have realised a combined investment of over Rp1.9 trillion and produce exclusively for export, remain integral to the global supply chain. The government warned that unverified relocation rumours had already unsettled buyers and suppliers, potentially disrupting the established domestic supply chain.

President Prabowo Instructs Public to Choose Logo for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day

President Prabowo Subianto has directed his administration to involve the public in selecting the official logo for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day commemoration. The government has launched a website where citizens can vote for one of five curated designs until 28 June 2026. The initiative marks a departure from previous practice, where the president alone made the final selection, and includes 300 prizes to encourage public participation.

South Jakarta District Court Judge Dismissed After Receiving Rp 1.9 Billion in Case Handling Fees

The Judicial Commission and Supreme Court have dishonourably dismissed Judge SW after he was found guilty of accepting Rp 1.9 billion in auction payments for personal use. The funds, entrusted to him while serving as Chief Judge of Kudus District Court, were used for private construction, mortgage payments, and office activities. This marks the culmination of multiple ethical violations, including issuing unregistered court rulings and receiving money for case management.

Police Anti-Corruption Unit Raids Juanda Customs Office Over Illegal Communication Device Imports

Indonesia's Police Anti-Corruption Corps (Kortas Tipidkor) searched the Juanda Customs and Excise Office in Sidoarjo as part of an investigation into alleged bribery linked to the smuggling of 76,756 illegal mobile phones worth Rp235.8 billion. The raid aims to uncover evidence of state losses, bribery, and gratuities involving customs officials. Two suspects have already been named in the case, which involves shell companies and the import of devices lacking Indonesian National Standard certification.

Pertamina's Fortune Southeast 500 Ranking Should Spur National Energy Security, Says Analyst

Energy analyst Feiral Rizky Batubara says Pertamina's inclusion in the Fortune Southeast 500 list must serve as motivation to strengthen its role as the backbone of Indonesia's national energy security. He emphasised that the state-owned company must balance profitability with its strategic mandate to ensure affordable and equitable energy supply. The achievement is also seen as a signal to boost investor confidence and accelerate strategic energy projects.

Behind the Throne: Ulama, Tarekat, and the Networks of Power in the Archipelago

This article explores the profound and often overlooked political influence of Islamic scholars and Sufi orders in the Indonesian archipelago from the classical sultanate era to the colonial period. It argues that ulama provided essential legitimacy, transnational networks, and mass mobilisation capabilities that shaped royal policy and anti-colonial resistance. The analysis traces how these spiritual networks functioned as a parallel power structure, the legacy of which remains relevant today.

Prambanan-Purwomartani Toll Road Not Opened Functionally During School Holidays

PT Jasa Marga has decided not to functionally open the Prambanan-Purwomartani toll section for the school holiday period, citing incomplete bridge works and ongoing land acquisition. Traffic heading to Yogyakarta will continue to use the Prambanan toll gate, which the company deems sufficient for the lower holiday traffic volumes compared to peak seasonal exodus periods.

KCIC Offers Up to 50% Discount on Whoosh Trips, Reveals How to Get It

PT KCIC is offering travel discounts of up to 50 per cent on the Whoosh high-speed train during a school holiday programme running from 19 June to 12 July 2026 at Agora Mall, Jakarta. The promotion includes a 20 per cent discount for groups of 20 or more and a 50 per cent discount for educational trips by school groups. The initiative aims to boost ridership while providing an educational experience about Southeast Asia's first high-speed railway.