Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 701-750 of 1,678 articles

Israeli Stocks and Shekel Rank Among World's Worst Performers in June

Israeli financial assets suffered a sharp reversal in June, with the TA-35 stock index and the shekel becoming some of the world's worst-performing assets. The sell-off was driven by investor concerns that a US-Iran peace deal could weaken Israel's long-term security posture. The decline marks a significant shift from the strong rally seen over the past three years of regional conflict.

West Java Governor Says Woman's Confinement Case Result of Neglectful Community Environment

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has attributed the recent case of a woman being confined and abused in a Bandung boarding house to a neglectful local community that failed to detect the problem early. He urged residents to be more vigilant about newcomers and called for mandatory reporting within 24 hours to neighbourhood authorities. The governor also questioned the lax regulation of boarding houses and stressed the need for parents to closely monitor their daughters' whereabouts.

These Are the 5 Best Designs for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Logo, Public Can Vote

The Indonesian government has shortlisted five logo designs for the 81st Independence Day anniversary and is inviting the public to vote for their favourite. The chosen logo will complement the official theme, 'A Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia'. Online voting is open from 24 to 28 June 2026 via the presidential website.

Pegadaian Supports '2,000 Trees' Programme in East Kalimantan, Promoting Green Collaboration for a 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 sustainability. The initiative involved a cross-sector collaboration between government, businesses, communities, and youth groups. Pegadaian officials emphasised that such green actions align with the company's ESG principles and aim to foster a lasting culture of environmental stewardship.

House Deputy Speaker Urges Support Rallies for Free Nutritious Meals Not to Disrupt Students' Duties

A senior Indonesian legislator has called for public demonstrations in support of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to avoid disrupting school activities, following a rally by parents and students in Batam. The official expressed surprise at the event and requested the education ministry investigate, while acknowledging the phenomenon reflects public anxiety over the potential discontinuation of the programme. The local education head stated the rally was a platform for parental aspirations and reaffirmed the programme's strategic role in improving student nutrition and learning motivation.

Indonesia's urea export to Australia boosts Indo-Pacific food security

Indonesia has shipped 47,250 metric tons of urea to Australia, marking the first delivery under a bilateral government-to-government framework aimed at strengthening Indo-Pacific food security. The export, facilitated by state-owned PT Pupuk Indonesia, underscores Jakarta's strategy of leveraging commodity exports for economic diplomacy and positions the country as a reliable fertiliser supplier amid global supply chain disruptions. The deal supports Australian farmers and follows an agreement between President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, with total shipments targeted to reach 250,000 metric tons by 2026.

Latest Fate of Taufik Hidayat After Arrest Draws Public Curiosity

Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in a high-profile kidnapping and abuse case, is undergoing intensive examination by West Java Police. Authorities have placed him in a special isolation cell under CCTV surveillance and will conduct a psychiatric evaluation, citing the unusually sadistic nature of the alleged crimes against his girlfriend.

Fortified rice must be more affordable to enter the mass market, says KFI

The Indonesian Fortification Coalition (KFI) has urged that fortified rice be made more affordable to reach retail markets and a broader population. Industry and retail representatives highlighted that while the technology is ready, high retail prices and fragmented supply chains remain key barriers. The government, through the National Food Agency, is accelerating implementation and tightening quality and price oversight to improve public nutrition.

West Java Police open possibility of other victims in Taufik Hidayat case

West Java Regional Police have indicated there may be additional victims in the alleged abuse and false imprisonment case involving suspect Taufik Hidayat. Authorities are monitoring social media posts from individuals claiming to have been victimised and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Investigators are still gathering evidence and have not yet determined the suspect's motive.

US in Turmoil of Mutual Accusations as Two Ducks Die in Donald Trump's Prized Pond

Two ducks have been found dead in the newly renovated Reflecting Pool in Washington D.C., sparking fresh controversy over President Donald Trump's $14.8 million project. The deaths have intensified a political blame game, with critics citing environmental damage from the rushed renovation and supporters arguing the upgrades were necessary. An investigation is underway amid concerns that chemical runoff and disrupted water circulation have poisoned the historic site's ecosystem.

Horrifying Facts Revealed! Taufik Hidayat Forced Confinement Victim to Tattoo His Name and Face Over Three Years

New details have emerged in the case of Taufik Hidayat, accused of confining and torturing a woman for three years, alleging he forced the victim to tattoo his name and face onto her body. The revelations surfaced on social media following his arrest by West Java Police, sparking public outrage over the extreme psychological control exerted. Police are continuing to investigate the full extent of the abuse, which reportedly includes severe physical injuries and organ damage.

New bird flu case detected, Australia on high alert

Australia has confirmed a third case of highly pathogenic H5 bird flu in a wild migratory bird along its southern coastline, prompting heightened surveillance. The latest detection involved a giant petrel found on the Fleurieu Peninsula, following two earlier cases near Esperance in Western Australia. Authorities are closely monitoring the spread of the virus among wild seabirds.

13 Suspects in Little Aresha Daycare Child Abuse Case Divided into 3 Case Files

Prosecutors in Yogyakarta have split the case files of 13 female suspects in the Little Aresha daycare abuse scandal into three clusters based on their roles: caregivers, the headmistress, and the foundation chairwoman. The charges differ for each group, necessitating separate submissions to court. A joint team of senior prosecutors from the district and high prosecutor's offices has been formed to expedite the trial for legal certainty.

Transjakarta Clarifies Viral Video: Woman Accused of Pickpocketing Was Only Verbally Disruptive

A viral video falsely accused a woman of pickpocketing on a Transjakarta bus, prompting the company to issue a clarification. The incident, which occurred on the Ancol-Kampung Melayu corridor, involved a passenger causing a verbal disturbance rather than theft. Transjakarta staff removed the woman to maintain order and issued a warning about future conduct.

Basarnas Requests Additional Rp1.61 Trillion for Replacement of Damaged Equipment

Indonesia's National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has requested an additional Rp1.61 trillion in capital expenditure for 2027 to replace and refurbish damaged primary operational equipment. The agency also seeks a dedicated emergency standby fund of Rp85.90 billion to ensure rapid initial response in rescue operations. These requests aim to address a critical backlog in infrastructure and operational readiness amid a tight indicative budget ceiling.

Government Maintains Subsidised Mortgage Rate at 5 Percent, Here's Why

The Indonesian government has decided to keep the interest rate for subsidised mortgages (KPR) at 5 percent despite Bank Indonesia raising its benchmark rate. Economists argue this policy is correct given weakening purchasing power, as it eases the burden on low-income families reliant on state support for housing. The move is also intended to sustain the FLPP scheme, which is popular with developers and banks and supports President Prabowo's 3 Million Homes programme.

5 Busiest Train Stations in Indonesia

PT Kereta Api Indonesia has revealed the busiest train stations in Indonesia, with Pasar Senen Station in Jakarta topping the list for long-distance train passenger movements from January to May 2026. The station served over 3.15 million passengers during this period, surpassing other major stations such as Gambir, Yogyakarta, Semarang Tawang, and Surabaya Gubeng. The high volume underscores Pasar Senen's critical role as a key intercity travel hub connecting Jakarta to various destinations across Java.

AGO Recovers Rp 379 Trillion, Pursues Rp 40.3 Trillion in Forest Fines

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (AGO) has secured Rp 379 trillion in state assets and revenue through a crackdown on illegal forest use, primarily from palm oil and mining sectors. The recovery includes seized assets, corruption restitution, and administrative fines, with an additional Rp 40.3 trillion in penalties still being pursued from companies. The AGO is shifting its enforcement paradigm to focus on recovering broader economic losses, not just direct state financial damages.

Indonesia Strengthens Mutual Legal Assistance Cooperation with Russia

Indonesia's Minister of Law, Supratman Andi Agtas, has signed a new technical cooperation agreement with Russia to strengthen Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) in criminal matters. The agreement, signed during a bilateral visit to St. Petersburg, covers information exchange, data access, research, and expert exchanges. President Prabowo Subianto has also approved the extradition of a Russian citizen requested by Moscow.

Attorney General's Office Recovers Rp131.5 Trillion in State Losses from Corruption Cases Since 2020

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office has recovered Rp131.5 trillion in state losses from special criminal cases between 2020 and 2026 through asset seizures. The achievement reflects a strategic shift towards prioritising high-impact corruption cases affecting public welfare and the national economy. Notable cases include alleged corruption in the free nutritious meal programme, textile imports, and education digitalisation.

PEBS UI Urges Acceleration of Sharia Economy Bill, Zakat Potential of IDR 300 Trillion Remains Untapped

The Centre for Islamic Economics and Business at the University of Indonesia (PEBS FEB UI) is calling for the swift deliberation of the Sharia Economy Bill, arguing that Indonesia's vast Islamic economic potential is not being fully harnessed as a new source of national growth. Despite a potential of IDR 300 trillion in annual zakat collections, actual receipts stand at only around IDR 40 trillion, while the market share of Islamic banking remains far behind that of neighbouring Malaysia. The centre warns that the current fragmented regulatory framework across sectors such as banking, zakat, waqf, and halal industry prevents optimal policy coordination and integration.

House Urges Basarnas to Map Risk Impact of Operational Budget 'Backlog'

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission V has instructed the national search and rescue agency (Basarnas) to compile a comprehensive safety risk map to assess the real-world impact of a Rp2.6 trillion budget shortfall on emergency response times. Lawmakers also demanded a transparent audit of all functional fleets and evacuation equipment to prioritise urgent capital spending. The directive comes as both Basarnas and the meteorological agency (BMKG) face significant indicative budget cuts for the 2027 fiscal year.

UGM Calls for Review of Foreign University Expansion in Indonesia

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has urged the government to reassess its policy of granting permits to foreign universities, warning that they may be entering Indonesia solely for profit rather than strengthening national higher education. The call comes as President Prabowo Subianto's administration explores a partnership with Imperial College London to establish medical and science universities. The government maintains the collaboration aims to bolster the national education and research ecosystem through joint curriculum development and research.

Home Affairs Ministry Ensures 2025 IPKD Measurement Results Reflect Real Regional Conditions

The Ministry of Home Affairs has completed the validation of the 2025 Regional Financial Management Index (IPKD) measurements, confirming the results accurately represent the actual state of regional financial governance. The validation process involved independent academics and journalists to ensure objectivity and credibility. The ministry noted that the direct participation of 38 regional heads in the validation process underscores a serious commitment to improving financial management at the local level.

BP BUMN Records Success of Pupuk Indonesia Transformation

The transformation of state-owned fertiliser producer Pupuk Indonesia has yielded tangible results, strengthening its domestic role and establishing it as a credible global exporter. The company has shipped 47,250 tonnes of urea to Australia under a government-to-government scheme, reinforcing Indonesia's position as a reliable supplier amid global uncertainty. The move supports national food security while expanding the firm's international market presence.

Mark Zuckerberg Wants Meta to Build Its Own 'Prediction Market' App

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is reportedly pushing for the company to develop its own prediction market application, internally codenamed 'Arena', as he sees the practice as a future trend. The experimental app is currently designed without a monetary focus, though financial elements could be added later. The move comes amid a global surge in prediction market trading volumes and increasing legal scrutiny, including outright bans in countries like Indonesia for violating online gambling laws.

Woman's Body Found in Government-Plated Car Parked for Four Days at Juanda Airport

The body of a woman was discovered inside a government-plated Toyota Kijang Innova that had been parked for four days at Terminal 1 of Juanda International Airport in Sidoarjo. The deceased was found seated in the front passenger seat, with blood visible outside the vehicle. Authorities have confirmed the evacuation of the body to a police hospital for further investigation.

Jakarta Police Question Complainant in Case Against Grace Natalie and Others Over Edited JK Sermon Video

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have questioned the complainant who reported politician Grace Natalie, Ade Armando, and Permadi Arya for allegedly sharing an edited video of former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's sermon. The complainant, representing a coalition of Islamic organisations, argues the edited content threatens national unity and religious harmony. The case was transferred from the National Police's Criminal Investigation Department to the Jakarta Police, a move the complainant regrets.

Nayan Project by Gen-Z Educates on the Importance of Early Colour Blindness Detection

A 16-year-old student, Celine Winarta, has launched the Nayan Project in Bandung to raise awareness about early detection of colour vision deficiency in Indonesia. The initiative, supported by the Cicendo Eye Hospital, aims to educate children, parents, and teachers about the condition, which affects a significant percentage of the population. The project also advocates for BPJS Kesehatan to cover colour blindness screenings and plans to expand its campaign to other provinces.

Director of The Voice of Istiqlal Receives Japanese Ambassador's Award

Mulyono Lodji, Director of The Voice of Istiqlal, has been honoured with the 2026 Japanese Ambassador's Award in Indonesia for his significant role in strengthening bilateral ties. The award recognises his coordination efforts between the Japanese Embassy and Istiqlal Mosque, as well as his initiative in founding an alumni association for the JENESYS youth exchange programme. The Japanese chargé d'affaires emphasised the importance of continuing to build upon the strong foundation of trust between the two nations.

New NTT Military Command to Operate Soon, 39-Hectare Site in Naioni Ready

A new Regional Military Command (Kodam) for East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) is set to become operational by September 2026, with a 39-hectare site in Naioni, Kupang, already prepared. The formation will separate NTT from the Bali-based Kodam IX/Udayana, with the proposed name Kodam Sobe Sonbay honouring a local hero. The new command is expected to sharpen the military's focus on border security with Timor-Leste and support provincial government programmes.

Indonesia Possesses Strong Capital to Dominate Global EV Battery Industry

The Indonesian government is offering USD 121 billion in investment opportunities to develop an integrated electric vehicle battery manufacturing ecosystem. Leveraging its vast reserves of four key battery raw materials, including 42% of the world's nickel, Indonesia aims to become one of the top five global EV battery producers by 2045. The downstream strategy is projected to generate up to USD 618 billion in total investment and create over 3 million jobs.

Aprindo pushes for shorter fortified rice distribution chain to lower prices

The Indonesian Retail Entrepreneurs Association (Aprindo) is urging a streamlining of the fortified rice distribution network to make the nutritious staple more affordable. The group highlights that current retail prices range widely from Rp90,000 to Rp130,000 per 5 kg pack, posing a challenge for wider consumer access. The proposal aligns with the National Food Agency's focus on price oversight and supply chain readiness to expand the market for fortified rice.

BPS Bali Assures Public That Economic Census Data Will Not Affect Taxes

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) in Bali has moved to allay public fears that data collected for the 2026 Economic Census will be used to increase taxes. The agency emphasised that the information is solely for statistical purposes and development planning, helping to map the business landscape and formulate evidence-based policy. BPS also guaranteed respondent confidentiality, protected by two layers of legislation.

Paspi: Indonesia Is the Largest Palm Oil Producer, Yet Prices Are Dictated by Malaysia

The Palm Oil Agribusiness Strategic Policy Institute (Paspi) has highlighted the paradox of Indonesia being the world's largest crude palm oil producer while having its prices referenced against the Malaysian exchange. Paspi argues that the newly enacted single-door export policy through PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia could allow the country to control global CPO prices and ensure export proceeds enter the domestic economy. However, economist Nailul Huda warns the policy may not automatically boost export revenues and could foster state capitalism at the expense of private sector involvement.

How to Vote for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day Logo in 2026, Here's the Link

The Indonesian government is inviting public participation in selecting the official logo for the 81st Independence Day commemoration in 2026. Voting is open from 24 to 28 June 2026 via the official presidential website, where citizens can choose from curated designs by professional graphic artists. The chosen logo will serve as the national visual identity for celebrations across the country, reflecting the theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur' (Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia).

Indonesia pushes circular economy for EV battery industry

Indonesia is advancing a circular economy policy to address sustainability challenges in electric vehicle battery production, moving beyond raw material extraction to embrace recycling. The government aims to integrate battery recycling into the global supply chain and align with international standards such as the EU Battery Passport, while inviting South Korean investment in supporting technologies.

Minister urges field workers to compile 3B free meal data for synchronisation

Minister of Population and Family Development Wihaji has instructed field teams to independently compile data on the distribution of Free Nutritious Meals to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers. The move aims to synchronise records with the National Nutrition Agency and improve governance of the programme. Currently, only 38.51 percent of the 25 million target beneficiaries are being served.

Russian Ambassador: Indonesia Yet to Submit Specific Requests on Oil and Nuclear Power Plant

Russia's envoy to Jakarta stated that Indonesia has not provided detailed technical and commercial specifications for proposed crude oil purchases or nuclear power plant cooperation. While the Indonesian Energy Ministry confirms crude procurement from Russia is underway as part of a 150-million-barrel import commitment, discussions on a floating nuclear facility remain at an exploratory stage pending regulatory and organisational decisions.

Attorney General Highlights Obstacles in New Criminal Code Implementation, Derivative Regulations Still Incomplete

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has acknowledged significant hurdles in implementing Indonesia's new Criminal Code (KUHP) and Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), primarily due to the absence of essential derivative regulations. He noted that mechanisms such as restorative justice and integrated IT-based criminal justice systems require further government regulation to function optimally. Burhanuddin emphasised that these early challenges are part of a necessary adaptation process and called for harmonisation among law enforcement agencies to prevent legal uncertainty.

DPR Reveals Coal Miners Preferred Exports Before DMO Policy

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has disclosed that domestic coal miners favoured exporting their product over supplying the local market prior to the Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) policy. The preference was driven by higher international prices, while the current fixed Domestic Price Obligation (DPO) of US$70 per ton for all coal grades is now deemed unfair by businesses. Lawmakers are urging the government to evaluate the pricing gap to balance national energy security with industry viability.

On automotive industry departures, Foreign Ministry says: More are still entering

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has downplayed the exit of two foreign automotive firms, stating it does not reflect the national investment climate as the country continues to attract significant new investments from Japan, South Korea, and China. The Ministry of Industry separately confirmed that the two companies in question are operating normally and have no plans to relocate. Officials suggest any departures are likely due to internal corporate strategy rather than Indonesia's business environment.

Jokowi's Lampung Safari: Volunteers Claim It's a Public Request

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo is scheduled for a three-day visit to Lampung from 26-28 June 2026, which volunteer groups insist is a non-political 'silaturahmi' tour requested by the public. The itinerary includes meetings with local communities, Islamic clerics, and visits to cultural sites such as a transmigration museum and pesantren. A PSI official has defended the former president's regional safaris, arguing they should be emulated as a gesture of gratitude rather than politicised.

Dozens of Islamic Universities from Across Asia Gather at UIN Jakarta to Promote World Peace

UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta hosted the 15th Annual General Meeting of the Asian Islamic Universities Association (AIUA), bringing together over 40 institutions from at least seven countries. The forum focused on the role of Islamic higher education in fostering global peace and resilience amid rising geopolitical tensions. A key outcome will be a joint declaration on world peace, alongside the election of the association's leadership for the 2026-2028 period.

House Commission IX: Proposal to Give Free Meals to TB Patients is Illogical

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has dismissed a ministerial proposal to include tuberculosis patients in the national free nutritious meal programme as unrealistic and illogical. The Deputy Chair of House Commission IX cited logistical hurdles, such as the lack of nearby distribution kitchens, and the risk of disease transmission through reusable food containers. The Health Minister had argued the meals would boost the immunity of TB patients, a disease that kills an estimated 126,000 Indonesians annually.

BMKG Proposes Rp119.09 Billion for Disaster Observation Technology in Sumatra

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has requested an additional Rp119.09 billion to address technology gaps and accelerate post-disaster rehabilitation in three Sumatran provinces. The funding targets Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to restore early detection data supply chains for hydrometeorological and geological hazards. This proposal forms part of a larger Rp757.336 billion priority package aimed at covering a significant shortfall in the agency's indicative 2027 budget ceiling.

Pelni Records 214,000 Passengers Using School Holiday Ticket Discounts

State-owned shipping company Pelni has reported that 214,000 passengers have taken advantage of a 30 percent fare discount programme during the 2026 school holidays. The scheme, effective for departures between 20 June and 15 August, is part of a government stimulus policy aimed at improving access to maritime transport. Pelni expects the total number of beneficiaries to reach nearly 694,000, supporting greater mobility and regional economic activity.

Bapanas urges retailers to strengthen innovation in national food rescue

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) is calling on the retail sector to boost innovation and collaboration in food rescue efforts to expand the redistribution of edible surplus food. The agency views retailers as a strategic link between producers and consumers, essential for building a more efficient and sustainable food system. Retail contributions to food rescue have reached 8.8 percent of registered partners, signalling growing corporate commitment to reducing food waste.

What's the Status of the Investigation into Manipulation by 10 Palm Oil Exporters? Here's What the Jampidsus Says

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office is actively investigating ten major palm oil exporters suspected of under-invoicing and transfer pricing. The probe, which involves calculating state financial losses with the BPKP, follows a report from the Finance Minister. Authorities have identified the alleged modus operandi but have not yet publicly named the companies involved.

Indonesia earmarks Rp14 trillion for irrigation overhaul in 2026

Indonesia has allocated Rp14 trillion for a nationwide irrigation upgrade programme in 2026, an increase from last year's Rp12 trillion, aiming to complete all necessary repairs by 2029. The initiative responds to farmers' concerns about inadequate water access and seeks to raise the cropping index, enabling year-round planting and supporting President Prabowo's food self-sufficiency goals. The government views improved irrigation as vital for boosting agricultural productivity, strengthening national resilience, and maintaining the recent halt on rice, corn, and sugar imports.