Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 901-950 of 1,678 articles

Prabowo Predicts Indonesia Will Achieve Energy Self-Sufficiency in 3-4 Years

President Prabowo Subianto has forecast that Indonesia will cease all fuel imports within three to four years, driven by the upcoming launch of B50 biodiesel. The new fuel, containing 50% palm oil, is expected to eliminate diesel imports and generate significant savings. Technical trials across multiple sectors have reportedly yielded positive results ahead of the planned 1 July 2026 rollout.

Wagino's Story: 25 Years Selling Books on Dipatiukur, Now Resigned to Eviction

After a quarter-century selling affordable textbooks to Bandung's university students from a pavement stall, 64-year-old Wagino faces eviction as the city clears illegal structures. Despite the stall funding his children's university education, he accepts the enforcement without protest. He plans to adapt by moving his book business online.

BKPM: Indonesia Offers Investment Opportunities in EV Battery Development

Indonesia is courting global investors to develop its electric vehicle battery manufacturing ecosystem, valued at USD 121 billion. The country leverages its abundant reserves of nickel, bauxite, manganese, and copper to build an integrated supply chain. The government aims to become one of the world's top five EV battery producers by 2045 through its downstreaming strategy.

Bittime: US-Iran Negotiations Could Determine Global Market Direction

Digital asset platform Bittime has stated that the outcome of US-Iran negotiations is a key factor likely to influence global market direction in the near term. The talks, combined with Middle East tensions and the Federal Reserve's cautious monetary stance, have already contributed to declines in Bitcoin and major US stock indices. Bittime also highlighted tokenised US stocks as an innovation offering Indonesian investors more flexible exposure to global equities.

House Commission Urges LPSK to Proactively Protect Victim in Bandung Confinement Case

A House of Representatives member has called on the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to take proactive measures in the case of a woman allegedly confined and abused in Bandung, rather than waiting for a formal request. The legislator emphasised that the law mandates LPSK to 'pick up the ball' and provide immediate protection, including safe houses and psychological support, when serious threats are identified.

Indonesia promotes innovative national park funding in London

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni presented Indonesia's new approach to conservation financing at a London climate forum, framing nature as a development asset requiring sustainable investment. He introduced a task force to develop innovative funding instruments such as carbon credits, biodiversity bonds, and debt-for-nature swaps for 13 priority national parks, while ensuring indigenous and local communities are key beneficiaries. The initiative aligns with President Prabowo's directive to strengthen natural resource protection through inclusive economic opportunities.

UI and UGM Strengthen Diplomacy at Global Climate Conference in Japan

Indonesian universities Universitas Indonesia (UI) and Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) presented strategic research on disaster mitigation and energy transition at the Weather & Climate Forecast Conference 2026 in Tokyo. The conference focused on using artificial intelligence to enhance early warning systems and climate resilience in Asia. The participation marks a significant step in Indonesia's scientific diplomacy and opens doors for global collaboration on AI-based climate technology.

Prabowo says farmers and fishermen were key to his 2024 presidential election victory

President Prabowo Subianto credited Indonesian farmers and fishermen as a decisive factor in his 2024 presidential election win. Speaking at a national agricultural event in Gorontalo, he highlighted his long-standing ties with rural communities and pledged continued government support for the agriculture and fisheries sectors. Prabowo emphasised that his political perseverance, despite four previous electoral defeats, was driven by a commitment to improving the welfare of smallholders and workers.

Cipinang Rice Market Slumps: Labourers Idle as Sales Drop Up to 70%

Trading activity at Indonesia's largest rice market, Pasar Induk Beras Cipinang (PIBC) in Jakarta, has slowed sharply despite normal supply levels. Market leaders and traders attribute the slump to weakening consumer purchasing power and the new school year expenses, leaving many porters idle and forcing suppliers to store unsold stock.

Prabowo Stresses Free Nutritious Meals Programme Vital to Tackle Hunger

President Prabowo Subianto has defended the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme as essential for combating hunger and improving nutrition, particularly among children. Speaking at a national farmers' and fishers' gathering, he argued that no issue is more urgent than hunger and highlighted the programme's role in absorbing domestic agricultural produce. He also emphasised the need for Indonesia to strengthen its food security amid rising global hunger.

BMKG Vows to Support Indonesia Emas 2045 Vision Despite Budget Constraints

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the national development agenda towards the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision, despite facing a significant budget shortfall. The agency's 2027 indicative budget ceiling of Rp2.16 trillion leaves a backlog of Rp2.48 trillion against its ideal operational needs. BMKG stressed that its functional interventions remain crucial for safeguarding food sovereignty, energy and water independence, and disaster resilience.

President Prabowo hails farmers, fishers as backbone of Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto praised Indonesian farmers and fishers as the 'backbone of the republic' during a national gathering in Gorontalo, vowing to improve their welfare. The Agriculture Minister noted the sector contributed 12.67 percent to GDP in early 2026, making it the third-largest contributor. The government's focus on food producers aligns with recent data showing double-digit growth in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.

Bank Raya and TDA Community Synergise to Mentor MSMEs in Business Development

PT Bank Raya Indonesia Tbk and the Tangan Di Atas (TDA) entrepreneur community have launched a partnership programme to mentor young entrepreneurs and MSMEs, aiming to help them scale their businesses. The initiative provides business capacity building, a Business & Finance Bootcamp, and encourages the adoption of Bank Raya's digital banking solutions like Saku Bisnis and QRIS.

Molotov Thrower in Koja Flees Home, Police Expand Manhunt

Police in North Jakarta are searching for a man identified as M who threw a Molotov cocktail that nearly struck a mother and her child. The suspect fled his residence before officers arrived, prompting a joint manhunt across multiple locations. Investigators believe the attack was motivated by jealousy, as the suspect intended to target a relative of his ex-wife's new partner.

Majority of ASDP Fleet Ageing, Requires Rp 23.49 Trillion for Renewal

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry faces a critical fleet renewal challenge, with 55% of its vessels over 30 years old and 72% below 1,000 GT capacity. The ageing ships are driving up maintenance costs and compromising safety standards. ASDP estimates it needs Rp 23.49 trillion in investment by 2030 to build 46 new vessels and develop 35 ports.

Kenya Defies US, Halts Construction of Ebola Quarantine Centre

Kenya's Health Minister Aden Duale has been found guilty of contempt of court for continuing the construction of a US-funded Ebola quarantine facility despite a judicial order to stop. The project, intended to isolate American citizens exposed to Ebola abroad, sparked local protests that resulted in three deaths. The court accepted Duale's apology, but the incident highlights tensions between executive action, judicial authority, and public health concerns in Kenya.

Attorney General Reveals Evaluation of KUHP-KUHAP Implementation

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has outlined the challenges faced by the Indonesian Attorney General's Office in the first six months of implementing the new Criminal Code (KUHP) and Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP). Key issues include the absence of implementing regulations and differing interpretations among law enforcement agencies, which risk creating legal uncertainty. The office has prepared internal technical guidelines and is pushing for accelerated regulation to ensure professional and fair enforcement.

Prabowo: We Will Soon Become the World's Rice Barn

President Prabowo Subianto expressed strong optimism that Indonesia will soon become a global rice granary after inspecting modern rice cultivation technology in Gorontalo that has doubled grain yields. He stressed the need for a sustainable national food system, prioritising farmer welfare and the adoption of innovative techniques across all regions. The President envisions every province and district achieving food self-sufficiency and generating export potential.

Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Storm Customer's Home After Food Order Dispute in Jogja

A miscommunication over a food order led to a group of online motorcycle taxi drivers confronting a customer at their home in Sidokabul, Yogyakarta. Police mediated the dispute, which was resolved amicably after the restaurant admitted to only packing two meals instead of the three ordered. The incident highlights tensions within the gig economy and the solidarity actions among drivers.

New Students Must Know: The Series of Assessments During 2026 School Orientation

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has expanded the assessment programme for the 2026 School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) to provide a holistic profile of new students. The assessments now cover academic skills, social-emotional conditions, physical fitness, and talent identification, with results shared with teachers and parents. The initiative aims to move beyond simple orientation, enabling schools to tailor learning strategies and support from the very start of the academic year.

Woman Found Dead in Government-Plated Car at Juanda Airport Car Park

A woman was discovered deceased inside a Toyota Kijang Innova bearing government registration plates at Surabaya's Juanda International Airport. The vehicle had been parked in the Terminal 1 car park since 20 June 2026, with blood reportedly visible around it. Police and airport authorities are investigating the circumstances of the death.

Portuguese National Arrested at Bali Airport Carrying 50 Rounds of Undocumented Ammunition

A Portuguese citizen was detained at Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport after security screening detected 50 rounds of .22 calibre ammunition in his backpack. The man claimed the ammunition was accidentally left in his bag from shooting practice in Portugal and admitted he lacked any valid Indonesian permits. Police are continuing their investigation and have charged the suspect under Indonesia's Criminal Code.

Observer: MSCI classification review should be momentum for reform acceleration

Market analyst David Sutyanto urges Indonesia to use the latest MSCI market classification review as a catalyst for accelerating capital market reforms. While Indonesia retains its Emerging Market status, MSCI highlighted concerns over shareholding transparency, free float validity, and coordinated trading practices. The country faces a November 2026 deadline to demonstrate consistent implementation of announced reforms or risk reclassification to Frontier Market status.

Banten Police Hold Flower Scattering Ceremony in Sunda Strait Ahead of 80th Bhayangkara Day

The Banten Regional Police conducted a flower scattering ceremony in the Sunda Strait and at the Heroes' Cemetery in Serang to commemorate the upcoming 80th Bhayangkara Day. Led by Police Chief Inspector General Hengki, the maritime ceremony aimed to honour fallen heroes and reinforce the spirit of service among police personnel. Officials also highlighted the need for community support in maintaining security along Banten's extensive coastal areas.

OJK: Interest in Unit-Linked Insurance Remains Strong Amid Capital Market Fluctuations

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports that public interest in unit-linked insurance products (PAYDI) remains robust, with premiums growing 11.14% year-on-year to Rp14.87 trillion as of April 2026. Despite significant stock market corrections, the overall performance of PAYDI products has stayed positive, supported by demand for combined protection and long-term investment. The OJK continues to emphasise prudent investment management and enhanced transparency to mitigate risks.

JCI Under Further Pressure After Lunch Break, Session II Opens Down Nearly 2.9 Percent at 5,925

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) extended its sharp decline after the midday break on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, plunging nearly 2.9 percent to 5,925.05. Selling pressure intensified during the second trading session, pushing the index further away from the psychological 6,000 level. The broad-based sell-off also dragged down other major indices, including the LQ45 and IDX80.

The Military's Role in Developing Nations Grows More Strategic, No Longer Just About Safeguarding Sovereignty

The role of the military in developing countries is expanding beyond traditional defence to include national development tasks such as infrastructure building and disaster response. A senior Indonesian military academic argues that modern, multidimensional threats like cyber-attacks and pandemics necessitate a renewed focus on the nexus between defence and development. This shift highlights the military's growing strategic importance in ensuring national stability.

Facing El Niño Weather Phenomenon, Bapanas Chief Guarantees Indonesia's Rice Stock Secure Until May 2027

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) head Amran Sulaiman has confirmed that government rice reserves exceed 5 million tonnes, ensuring supply stability until May 2027. The stockpile, described as the highest in history, is a key buffer against potential El Niño disruptions. Despite a marginal projected decline in 2026 production, the year-end balance is estimated at 16.24 million tonnes, sufficient to cover over five months of national consumption.

Foreign Investors Record Massive Net Sell Following MSCI Announcement

Foreign investors offloaded nearly Rp1 trillion in Indonesian equities during the first trading session after MSCI confirmed the country's retention in the Emerging Markets category. Banking stocks bore the brunt of the sell-off, while Barito Renewables Energy saw significant foreign accumulation. The Jakarta Composite Index fell 1.62% to 6,002.20 by the session's close.

UN Reveals Horrific Facts in Gaza, Accuses Israel of Brutal Genocide

A United Nations independent commission has found new evidence that Israel is deliberately targeting Palestinian children in Gaza, with minors accounting for 30% of casualties. The report accuses Israel of systematic genocide, citing the intentional use of high-explosive munitions in densely populated areas and a crippling blockade causing famine and mass displacement. Israel has rejected the findings as 'slanderous', while international human rights organisations concur that the actions meet the legal definition of genocide.

Witness Retracts BAP Statement on CPO and PK Sales Data in LPEI Corruption Trial

A former sales manager retracted part of his official statement regarding crude palm oil and palm kernel sales data during a corruption trial at the Jakarta Corruption Court. The witness clarified that the data in the investigation report did not originate from his own records but from another individual's file. The court accepted the retraction and reminded the witness of his responsibility to provide truthful testimony.

Ministry of Industry Denies Automotive Component Plant Relocation to Vietnam

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has refuted reports that two automotive component manufacturers in East Java are relocating to Vietnam. The ministry confirmed both PT JAI and PT SAI are operating normally and have not laid off any workers. The government is concerned the rumours could disrupt the automotive supply chain and damage the manufacturing investment climate.

Public Highlights Claim That Free Nutritious Meal Programme Cuts Regional Revenue

Civil society group Jaringan Aktivis Nusantara (JAN) has protested against Riau's acting governor for blaming the national free nutritious meal programme for a decline in the province's locally generated revenue. The group argues the programme should boost local income through taxes on procurement and has called on the Home Affairs Minister to evaluate and remove the official for undermining a central government priority.

Prabowo on MBG Opponents: Hungry People Will Die If Not Fed

President Prabowo Subianto has sharply criticised opponents of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, urging them to consult farmers, fishermen, and children about its necessity. He rejected intellectual arguments that other issues are more pressing than hunger, stating that people will die if their empty stomachs are not filled. Prabowo also cited UN data warning of a massive global hunger crisis, with numbers potentially rising to 700 million this year.

House Commission X Pushes for Teacher Welfare, Proposes Rp5 Million Minimum Salary

The House of Representatives' Commission X is advocating for a minimum monthly salary of Rp5 million for teachers to improve their welfare. The proposal responds to President Prabowo Subianto's remarks linking budget leaks from fraudulent export reports to the suboptimal salary increases for educators. The government is reportedly preparing for salary and allowance increases for both civil servant and non-civil servant teachers in the 2027 budget.

IPB Student Body: BEM UBK Bribery Scandal Tarnishes the Purity of the Student Movement

The President of the IPB Student Executive Board has condemned an alleged bribery case involving a student leader from Bung Karno University, stating it undermines the idealism of student activism. He warned the incident could erode public trust and called for transparent investigations and funding practices. The controversy follows a meeting between students and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka.

Luhut Advises BGN to Refine Free Nutritious Meals Programme in Stages

National Economic Council Chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has recommended the National Nutrition Agency implement the Free Nutritious Meals programme in a more gradual, phased manner to better identify and resolve operational challenges. He noted that while initial rapid rollout caused some issues, understanding of the programme's needs has improved over its first year, and its significant economic impact stems from direct fund flows to communities.

Deputy Minister Stella Targets September Launch for One-Stop Scholarship Portal

Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Technology Stella Christie announced that a one-stop scholarship information portal is targeted for a soft launch by September 2026. The platform aims to consolidate scholarship opportunities from the Indonesian government, foreign governments, and the private sector to address information bottlenecks. The initiative is expected to increase Indonesian students studying in China and strengthen bilateral ties.

NU Scholars Strengthen Intellectual Tradition Through Book Review of KH Zulfa Musthofa's Work

Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) scholars and clerics across East Java convened at Darul Ulum Islamic Boarding School in Jombang to review KH Zulfa Musthofa's book, 'Ithafu Ummatil Muqtafa'. The event, part of the lead-up to the 2026 NU National Conference and Grand Conference, aimed to revitalise the organisation's classical scholarly traditions. The author noted the eight-year effort behind the book, which was initiated during the Covid-19 pandemic.

MSCI Retains Indonesia's Emerging Market Status

MSCI has reaffirmed Indonesia's classification as an Emerging Market in its 2026 review, a decision welcomed by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) as a reflection of global investor confidence. The OJK highlighted that the recognition validates ongoing capital market reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, integrity, and competitiveness. Authorities remain committed to addressing areas of concern to further strengthen the domestic market's global standing.

Prabowo Targets End to Diesel Imports with Upcoming B50 Biodiesel Launch

President Prabowo Subianto has announced that Indonesia will launch the B50 biodiesel programme in July, aiming to halt diesel imports by blending fuel with 50% palm oil. The policy is a key part of the government's strategy to achieve energy self-sufficiency within three to four years. The move is expected to save foreign exchange and bolster national energy security by leveraging Indonesia's position as a top palm oil producer.

How Long Does It Take to Change Your DTSEN Decile? Here Are the 10 Tiers and How to Check

The Data Tunggal Sosial Ekonomi Nasional (DTSEN) classifies Indonesian citizens into ten deciles based on welfare, directly determining eligibility for social assistance programmes like PKH and Sembako. Citizens who believe their decile classification is inaccurate can request a change through the Cek Bansos app or local government offices. The Badan Pusat Statistik (BPS) updates the data every three months, meaning the entire correction process can take up to three months, though changes may also occur automatically due to system integration with banks and BPJS.

Grab to Implement 8% App Fee from 1 July 2026, Complying with President Prabowo's Directive

Grab Indonesia will introduce an 8% application fee for its two-wheeled online motorcycle taxi partners starting 1 July 2026, following a presidential regulation signed by Prabowo Subianto. The company stated the move balances driver welfare, consumer affordability, and ecosystem sustainability. The policy stems from President Prabowo's demand to cut app fees below 10% to ensure fairer income for ride-hailing drivers.

Consumers Reluctant to Buy New Phones, Sales Struggle and Traders' Plight Worsens

The global smartphone market continues to decline, with sales falling 8% year-on-year for the ninth consecutive week due to weak consumer demand. Only Apple and Huawei are showing positive growth, while brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo struggle with component supply instability and pricing pressures.

Getting to know the three faces of Betawi as Jakarta approaches five centuries

As Jakarta nears its 499th anniversary, the diverse cultural roots of the indigenous Betawi people are being highlighted. The community is broadly categorised into three groups—central, fringe, and coastal Betawi—each shaped by distinct geographical and historical influences. Their identity, forged through centuries of assimilation with Malay, Sundanese, Arab, Chinese, and European cultures, was intellectually popularised by figures like Muhammad Husni Thamrin ahead of the 1928 Youth Pledge.

House Commission VIII pushes for stronger BPKH to optimise hajj fund investments

House Commission VIII is urging greater independence for the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) to shield it from external intervention and enhance its investment performance. Lawmakers argue that an autonomous BPKH can better grow the entrusted pilgrims' funds through safe, productive instruments, thereby increasing the value of benefits for hajj operations and services. The commission also stressed the need for synergy between BPKH and the Ministry of Hajj to maximise returns within Indonesia's hajj ecosystem.

Yusril: Public Service is the Face of the State in the Eyes of the People

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra emphasised that the quality of public service is the most direct representation of the state to its citizens and is fundamental to building public trust. Speaking at the International Public Service Day commemoration, he highlighted that laws must manifest in daily administrative practice and ethical governance. The event also saw calls from the Ombudsman and the House of Representatives for stronger inter-agency synergy and strategic reviews to prevent maladministration.

Woman's Body Found in Car at Juanda Airport Car Park

The body of a woman was discovered inside a car at the Terminal 1 car park of Juanda International Airport in Surabaya on Wednesday afternoon. The vehicle had been parked for an estimated four days before online taxi drivers noticed unusual fluid leaking from it and alerted authorities. Police and airport security are currently investigating the incident.

US Senate Passes Resolution to Halt War on Iran, Trump Fumes

The US Senate has approved a symbolic War Powers Resolution demanding an end to hostilities against Iran, prompting an angry backlash from President Donald Trump. The measure passed despite Trump's claims that his pressure campaign had Tehran cornered and ready to concede. The vote marks the strongest congressional rebuke of the administration's Iran policy to date.

Maxim still reviewing implementation of eight percent ride-hailing commission cap

Maxim Indonesia is still assessing the impact of a new presidential regulation capping ride-hailing platform commissions at eight percent, while competitor Grab has already announced a July 2026 start date. Maxim, whose current commission rates range from eight to 15 percent, says the reduction will directly affect its revenue and requires further internal study before implementation.