Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,678 articles

SAR Team Searches for KM Gunung Dempo Passenger Who Fell Overboard in Roon Waters

A joint search and rescue operation is underway for a 26-year-old passenger who fell from the KM Gunung Dempo ferry into the sea near Roon Island, West Papua. The incident occurred during a voyage from Wasior to Nabire, and initial efforts by the ship's crew were unsuccessful. Basarnas Manokwari has deployed a rescue team and is coordinating with multiple agencies and local communities to locate the missing man.

Trans-Java Toll Road to Reach Banyuwangi, ASDP Boss Voices Concerns

The head of Indonesia's state ferry operator ASDP has warned that extending the Trans-Java toll road to Banyuwangi could worsen chronic congestion at the Ketapang-Gilimanuk crossing. He highlighted limited port capacity and a recent ban on certain vessels as factors that will compound the problem once the toll road is fully connected.

Bareskrim Transfers Reports Against Grace Natalie and Abu Janda to Polda Metro Jaya

Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has transferred reports filed by a coalition of 40 community organisations against political figures Grace Natalie, Permadi Arya (Abu Janda), and Ade Armando to the Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The reports allege the trio selectively edited a lecture by former Vice President Jusuf Kalla to create a misleading narrative about his discussion of martyrdom. Bareskrim stated the transfer was made to consolidate the case with an existing report at Polda Metro Jaya for more efficient handling.

Taufik Hidayat Surrenders to Police, Not Arrested; Former Boss Played Key Role

Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in the alleged false imprisonment and abuse of his girlfriend in Bandung, surrendered to police after being persuaded by his former employer. The victim, YTR, was found with severe injuries after reportedly being held captive and tortured for three years. The case has drawn widespread public attention in Indonesia.

Budget Absorption at 30.61%, Transmigration Ministry Secretary General Explains

The Ministry of Transmigration's Secretariat General has absorbed only 30.61% of its 2026 budget as of mid-year but projects a 97.97% realisation by year-end. The ministry is also preparing its 2027 indicative budget ceiling of Rp310.63 billion, prioritising personnel spending and operational needs amid limited fiscal space.

Indonesia targets US$121 billion EV battery investment push

Indonesia is courting global investors with a US$121 billion opportunity to build 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, arguing that downstream processing could multiply nickel's value 67-fold. This long-term strategy is projected to attract total investment of US$618 billion, boost exports to US$857 billion, and generate over three million jobs.

IAEA to proceed with Iran nuclear inspections despite objections

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will press ahead with inspections at Iran's uranium enrichment facilities, its director general confirmed, dismissing Tehran's denials of any agreed access. The move follows a US-Iran memorandum of understanding that explicitly mandates full IAEA oversight of nuclear material activities. The broader deal also outlines a 60-day negotiation window and includes economic reconstruction plans for Iran worth at least USD 300 billion.

AGO Recovers Rp131 Trillion in State Losses, from CPO to Tin Cases

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office (AGO) has recovered state losses totalling Rp131.5 trillion through special criminal proceedings between 2020 and 2026. The recoveries stem from high-profile cases involving major state-owned enterprises and strategic sectors, including tin trading, crude oil management, and palm oil exports. The AGO emphasised that its focus extends beyond financial recovery to safeguarding the national economy, natural resource governance, and public interest.

KKP and Koperasi Desa Merah Putih Collaborate to Strengthen Fisheries Sector

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is partnering with the Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) to integrate supply chains and improve the welfare of coastal communities. The collaboration will see the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih programme linked with village cooperatives to absorb fishermen's produce. The government is also accelerating the modernisation of the national fishing fleet, targeting 1,582 modern vessels by 2028.

JK: Iran Surprises the World, Proves It Can Withstand US-Israel Pressure

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla stated that Iran's ability to withstand military pressure from the United States and Israel demonstrates the critical importance of technological mastery for Islamic nations. Speaking at an international seminar in Jakarta, he argued that Iran's strength lies not merely in weaponry but in consistently developed technological capabilities. Kalla urged Islamic countries to balance religious faith with scientific and technological advancement to overcome internal and external conflicts.

Government denies conditioning public demonstrations in support of free nutritious meals

The Government Communication Body (Bakom) has rejected allegations that recent rallies backing the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme were orchestrated by the state. Officials emphasised that the government respects both supporters and critics of the flagship policy. The statement comes amid ongoing programme reforms and a temporary halt in distribution during school holidays, which is projected to save around Rp3 trillion in incentives.

DPR Urges Student Supporters of Free Nutritious Meal Programme Not to Disrupt Learning

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has cautioned that student demonstrations in support of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme should not interfere with their education. The remarks follow a rally by students and parents in Batam expressing concern over the potential discontinuation of the programme. The legislator suggested that students channel their aspirations through school authorities rather than taking to the streets.

University Admissions Competition: Is Meritocracy Alone Insufficient?

Indonesia's merit-based university selection systems, SNBP and SNBT, aim to provide equal opportunities but are undermined by deep structural inequalities. Disparities in school facilities, internet access, and economic means between urban and rural or disadvantaged students create an uneven starting point. Experts argue that meritocracy must be accompanied by policies addressing infrastructure gaps, biased selection mechanisms, and financial barriers like high tuition fees to ensure fair access to higher education.

West Java Strengthens Indonesian Language Governance

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is pushing for stronger, coordinated oversight of Indonesian language use in West Java. Officials highlighted the language's growing international status while lamenting the excessive use of foreign languages in domestic public spaces. The initiative includes forming provincial and district-level supervisory teams to prioritise guidance and education over punitive measures.

Villages Prepared as Drivers of Human Rights Development, Ministry of Human Rights Recruits 200 Activators

Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights is recruiting 200 human rights activators at the village and sub-district level this year to embed human rights principles at the grassroots. The ministry argues that villages must become the engine of human rights development, as rural communities are the primary targets of national development programmes. The initiative aims to address persistent issues such as access to education, healthcare, land conflicts, and violence against women and children.

BPJPH Wins Best State Budget Management Work Unit Award, Records 99.53 IKPA

The Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has been recognised as the third-best work unit in state budget management for the second half of 2025, achieving an impressive Budget Execution Performance Indicator (IKPA) score of 99.53. The award highlights the agency's commitment to accountable and transparent financial governance. BPJPH views the achievement as motivation to further enhance its financial integrity and support quality halal certification services for the public.

Government Sets 'Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia' as Theme for 81st Independence Day

The Indonesian government has announced 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur' (Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia) as the official theme for the 2026 Independence Day celebrations. For the first time, the public is being invited to vote for the official commemorative logo via a dedicated website from 24 to 28 June, following President Prabowo Subianto's directive to foster a sense of national ownership. The chosen logo will be integrated with the theme to form the unified visual identity for all national festivities.

Iran Hit by New Catastrophe as ATMs and Mobile Banking Totally Paralysed

A massive cyberattack has crippled card-based banking services at several major Iranian banks, including Bank Melli, Bank Saderat, and Bank Tejarat. The Informatics Services Corporation reported that ATM, point-of-sale, and mobile banking operations were suspended to prevent further unauthorised access. This follows a similar incident earlier in June, with officials expecting services to be restored soon and no customer data compromised.

Transformation Effect: Pupuk Indonesia Begins Expanding Global Market via Exports to Australia

PT Pupuk Indonesia (Persero) has shipped 47,250 tonnes of urea to Australia under a government-to-government scheme, marking its expansion into global markets. The export reflects the company's successful internal transformation, which has boosted its competitiveness and production capacity. The move positions Indonesia as a reliable fertiliser supplier in the Indo-Pacific region amid global supply uncertainties.

Researcher values minimum wage internship as solution for educated unemployment

A researcher has praised the government's National Internship Programme 2026, which offers allowances equivalent to the provincial minimum wage, as a potential short-term fix for Indonesia's high rate of educated unemployment. The scheme is seen as a breakthrough policy that provides crucial work experience and professional networking for fresh graduates. The programme, set to reopen in July with 150,000 slots, is framed as a 'competency subsidy' for young job seekers.

Pegadaian Supports 2,000 Trees Programme in East Kalimantan to Boost Green Collaboration

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has participated in a tree-planting initiative in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, as part of its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments. The programme, which involved government, businesses, academics, and youth groups, planted 2,000 trees to promote environmental sustainability. Pegadaian emphasised that cross-sector collaboration is essential for achieving a lasting positive impact on the environment.

Public Voting for 81st Indonesian Independence Day Logo Closes in Four Days

For the first time, the Indonesian government is allowing the public to vote online for the official logo of the 81st Independence Day. Polling is open until 28 June 2026 via a dedicated website, with five shortlisted designs chosen from a national competition. The initiative aims to foster a sense of public ownership and ensure the selected symbol represents the aspirations of the people.

KP2MI Partners with 8 South Kalimantan Universities to Boost Migrant Worker Competence

The Ministry of Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has signed agreements with eight universities in South Kalimantan to enhance the skills of Indonesian migrant workers. The collaboration aims to create an integrated ecosystem from training to placement, shifting the paradigm from low-skilled labour to professional global talent. The initiative includes establishing Migrant Centres on campuses for language training, technical competency tests, and international career information.

AGO Implements Plea Bargaining, Attorney General Discusses Social Restoration

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has issued technical guidelines for plea bargaining and deferred prosecution agreements under Indonesia's new Criminal Code. The move aims to ensure uniform and accountable implementation of restorative justice mechanisms, shifting the paradigm from retribution to rehabilitation. Since January 2026, six new mechanisms have been applied in 605 cases, though the absence of detailed government regulations remains a key challenge.

Purbaya Confirms Finance Ministry Has No Plans Yet to Buy IDX Shares

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the Ministry of Finance currently has no plans to become a shareholder of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), despite new legislation permitting it. The P2SK Law allows the ministry, Bank Indonesia, and the Danantara investment authority to hold shares, while mandating the exchange maintain its independence. Further provisions on shareholding will be regulated by the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

KPK Imprisons Noel Ebenezer in Sukamiskin Prison

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer to Sukamiskin Prison to serve a 4.5-year sentence. He was convicted in a bribery and gratuity case linked to the handling of occupational health and safety (K3) certifications. Ten other officials and businessmen were also imprisoned as part of the same execution of sentences.

Pertalite Prices in Lembata Soar to Rp 50,000 per 1.5 Litres

Residents of Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara, are facing soaring retail prices for Pertalite fuel, reaching up to Rp 50,000 per 1.5-litre bottle. Long queues at local petrol stations have compounded the issue, which Pertamina attributes to rising demand, increased issuance of fuel recommendation letters for fishermen, and bulk purchases by retailers. The state energy firm is coordinating with local government and law enforcement to strengthen distribution oversight and ensure subsidised fuel reaches eligible recipients.

Fuel Prices in Lembata Hit Rp 50,000 per 1.5-Litre Bottle Amid Supply Issues

Residents of Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara, are facing soaring retail fuel prices, reaching up to Rp 50,000 for a 1.5-litre bottle, alongside long queues at petrol stations. Pertamina attributes the situation to increased demand, a rise in fuel recommendation letters for fishermen, and bulk purchases by retailers. The company is coordinating with local authorities to strengthen distribution oversight and ensure subsidised fuel reaches eligible recipients.

Renewable energy utilisation in Indonesia must continue to be increased

Indonesia's vast renewable energy potential remains largely untapped, with solar power utilisation at just 0.07 percent and geothermal at 8.9 percent. The group MOSAIC is advocating for community-based solar power plants to support President Prabowo's 100 GW solar target, emphasising grassroots economic empowerment. Islamic finance instruments, including blended finance integrating zakat and waqf, are being explored to fund these community projects.

Police Monitor Posts About Other Taufik Hidayat Victims, Urge Them to Report

West Java Police are investigating claims of additional victims of Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the abuse and confinement of a woman in Bandung Regency. Authorities are monitoring social media posts from individuals alleging they were also victimised and have urged them to file official reports. No formal complaints have been received so far, and investigators continue to examine the motive behind the attack on his former girlfriend.

West Java Police Confirm Taufik Hidayat Was Arrested, Not Surrendered

West Java Police have clarified that Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in a high-profile abuse and confinement case, was actively arrested at a relative's home in Bandung, contradicting claims by his former superior that he surrendered. Authorities will further investigate the former superior's statement as a witness.

Kadin Chairman Anindya Bakrie Affirms Indonesia's Strong Potential to Become Key Player in SDV Industry at Summer Davos 2026

Indonesia's strategic advantages in critical minerals, renewable energy, and demographic bonus position it as a potential major player in the software-defined vehicle (SDV) industry, according to Kadin Chairman Anindya Bakrie. Speaking at the World Economic Forum's Summer Davos in Dalian, he highlighted the nation's vast nickel reserves and top-five global standing in copper, zinc, bauxite, and tin. The country's energy transition plans and large, youthful population further strengthen its case for becoming a hub for advanced automotive manufacturing.

JCI Plunges 3.56% Following MSCI Announcement

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell sharply by 3.56% after MSCI retained Indonesia's equity market in its Emerging Market category but flagged concerns over ownership transparency and coordinated trading. The global index provider warned that insufficient progress by November 2026 could trigger a consultation on reclassifying Indonesia to Frontier Market status. The sell-off was broad-based, with all sectors declining and major blue-chip stocks leading the losses.

National Internship Programme to Reopen in July 2026, Targeting 50,000 Participants

The Indonesian government will launch the fourth batch of the National Internship Programme (PMN) in July 2026, aiming to recruit 50,000 participants in the first wave. The programme, which targets recent university graduates, plans to reach a total of 150,000 interns by the end of 2026 through three waves, with support from over 8,000 private companies, government agencies, and state-owned enterprises.

Deputy Human Rights Minister and IKN Authority to Follow Up on Sepaku Residents' Aspirations

Deputy Minister of Human Rights Mugiyanto and the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) Authority have pledged to address the concerns of residents in Sepaku District, East Kalimantan, regarding the fulfilment of their rights. The residents' aspirations include limited local employment opportunities, access to clean water, land compensation settlements, and dust disturbances from construction. The government emphasised that the strategic national project must progress in tandem with the respect and advancement of human rights.

Rupiah weakens amid higher probability of Fed policy tightening

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated by 0.52 percent against the US dollar, closing at Rp17,952, as markets priced in a greater likelihood of further interest rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve. Analysts noted that traders now see a 70 percent chance of a rate increase in September, with another fully expected in December. The currency's movement also reflected ongoing uncertainty over US-Iran negotiations and investor concerns regarding the accessibility of Indonesia's equity market.

Suspect Took Victim to Hospital Before Fleeing, Claimed Injuries Were from Accident

Police investigating the alleged confinement and torture of a 29-year-old man in Bandung revealed that the suspect, Taufik Hidayat, initially took the victim to hospital before fleeing. The suspect claimed the victim's injuries resulted from an accident, but forensic examination indicated they were caused by prolonged violence. The victim remains hospitalised and has not fully recovered, limiting the information available to investigators.

House Commission VII: Industrial Estate Bill Must Fulfil Principles of Justice

The House of Representatives' Commission VII has stressed that the forthcoming Industrial Estate Bill must balance the interests of the government, businesses, and local communities. The legislation aims to ensure orderly business operations while safeguarding community rights and environmental protections. The bill is part of the 2026 Priority National Legislation Programme and has been under discussion since January 2026.

Gillette and Levi’s Remain in the Spotlight After FIFA Covers Stadium Logos

FIFA's 'clean stadium' policy for the 2026 World Cup has inadvertently amplified brand exposure for non-sponsors like Gillette and Levi’s. By covering their logos, FIFA sparked widespread social media conversation, with brands cleverly turning the restrictions into organic marketing campaigns. The phenomenon highlights how strong visual identities can thrive even under commercial suppression.

Can the West Mimic China's Economic Strategy Without Losing Its Identity?

A new book by economists Chad Bown and Soumaya Keynes argues that Western democracies must selectively adopt tools from China's state-directed economic playbook, such as strategic stockpiling and export controls, to protect their autonomy. The analysis highlights how China's industrial policies have created market dominance in sectors like rare earth minerals and electric vehicles, which Beijing has shown a willingness to weaponise. However, the authors caution against wholesale imitation, warning that poorly implemented subsidies and controls could backfire, causing domestic inefficiency and friction among allies.

House Commission II: Dasco to Lead Safari on Election Bill Discussions with Non-Parliamentary Parties

The House of Representatives' Commission II plans to conduct a political safari to engage non-parliamentary parties in discussions about the Election Bill. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad is slated to lead the initiative, which aims to gather input on crucial issues such as parliamentary thresholds and electoral district seat allocations. The consultations are expected to take place before the upcoming recess period.

Israel Views Turkey as a Greater Threat Than Iran

An Israeli newspaper analysis suggests Turkey now poses a more serious threat to Israel than Iran, citing Ankara's growing military capabilities and expanding domestic defence industry. The report highlights Turkey's large armed forces, advanced indigenous weapons production, and significant naval power as key factors. It also notes a perceived decline in US-Israel alignment, complicating Israel's security outlook.

Six Issuers Ready for IPO, Will They Boost Stock Market Investment?

Sucor Sekuritas CEO Bernadus Wijaya notes that foreign capital outflow from Indonesia's regular market has reached Rp 85 trillion year-to-date, reflecting investor concerns. Despite ongoing market uncertainties, six companies are planning initial public offerings in June 2026, which could reinvigorate trading. Wijaya also highlighted that rising bond yields are making it more difficult for issuers to tap the debt market.

Chinese Ambassador Reveals Progress on Whoosh Debt Restructuring Talks

China's Ambassador to Indonesia, Wang Lutong, has confirmed that discussions on restructuring the debt for the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed rail project (Whoosh) are proceeding well, though details remain confidential. This follows earlier statements by Indonesian officials that the restructuring has been finalised and is awaiting announcement. The government has prioritised resolving the financial arrangements before advancing the project's extension to other regions.

Purbalingga Job Fair 2026 Offers 6,816 Vacancies

The Purbalingga Regency Government in Central Java is hosting a job fair with 6,816 vacancies across 194 positions, including 346 roles for disabled workers. The initiative aims to match local workforce skills with industry needs and reduce the open unemployment rate, building on last year's fair which saw 1,041 job seekers successfully placed. The government is also bolstering competency programmes through targeted training to enhance long-term local workforce competitiveness.

SAR Team Intensifies Search for Teenager Missing in Lembah Tengkorak

A joint search and rescue team is intensifying efforts to locate a 15-year-old student who went missing while hiking alone in the Lembah Tengkorak trail in Bandung Regency. The operation, which includes ground sweeps and thermal drone surveillance, is focused on several branch paths the victim is believed to have taken. Challenging terrain is a key factor in the search strategy, with safety remaining a priority for all personnel involved.

From Cycling to Sell Fish to Chasing Dreams at a People's School

A 12-year-old boy from Medan who once pedalled a bicycle for miles to sell fish now has the chance to pursue his education and dream of becoming a soldier, thanks to the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. The initiative, championed by President Prabowo Subianto, has transformed the life of Muhammad Risky Pratama, who previously had to help support his impoverished family. His grandparents, who struggled to afford his schooling, expressed tearful gratitude for the programme that has given their grandson hope and a path to a better future.

Attorney General's Office Reveals 12 Corruption Cases with Staggering State Losses

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has disclosed 12 major corruption cases involving state officials and private entities, resulting in massive financial losses to the state. The cases span strategic sectors including tin trading, oil and gas, insurance, palm oil, aviation, telecommunications, and education, with the largest single loss from Pertamina's oil governance reaching Rp285 trillion. A new investigation into the free nutritious meal programme at the National Nutrition Agency for 2025–2026 has also been launched, with six suspects named.

US Secretary of State: Trump Will Decide if Iran Rejects IAEA Inspections

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that President Trump will be forced to make decisions if Iran refuses to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on nuclear inspections. The remarks follow conflicting signals from Tehran, with Iran's foreign ministry suggesting no plans exist to inspect damaged nuclear facilities, while its parliament speaker reported progress in talks. The situation hinges on whether Iran honours its commitments, with the US indicating inspectors could arrive as early as this week.

Prabowo Speaks Candidly About Parties That Do Not Want Indonesia to Rise

President Prabowo Subianto openly stated that certain parties are opposed to Indonesia's resurgence under his leadership during a speech at the National Farmers and Fishermen's Week in Gorontalo. He emphasised the need for straightforward communication with farmers and fishermen, dismissing concerns about his blunt style. Prabowo also expressed hope that wealth currently concentrated among a few would gradually trickle down to the broader population.