Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 51-100 of 1,678 articles

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

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

Investment Prospects in Industrial Estates Amid Regulatory Strengthening

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

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

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

Vocational Training Becomes Focus of Indonesia-China Education Cooperation

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

Psychologist: Possessive Partner Behaviour Can Indicate an Unhealthy Relationship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BPOM supports health tourism with special herbal medicine access

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

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

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

Biometric SIM Registration Expected to Enhance Mobile Service Security

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

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

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

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

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

RI reaffirms commitment to energy transition at GETES in London

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

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

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

Makassar Dekranasda Showcases MSME Crafts to International Delegation

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

Third SPPI Kopdes-KNPM Participant Dies During Military Training

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

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

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

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

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

Gianyar Manpower Office Holds FGD on Region-Based Village Economy

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

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

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

Mining company opens Sulawesi biodiversity conservation zone

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

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

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

Economist confident Indonesia has great potential to capture industry relocation

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

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

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

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

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

Residents Complain of Long Trailer Queues in Cakung-Cilincing

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

Downstreaming Potential in Non-Mining Sectors Could Spur Economic Growth

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orang Rimba in Jambi Seek Protection from Coal Mining Impacts

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

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

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

KPK suspends detention of Yaqut Cholil Qoumas due to illness

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

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

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

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

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

Global Component Shortage Drives Laptop Prices Up by 50%

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indonesia approves 40-year subsidized mortgage scheme

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

Customs at Soekarno-Hatta Airport Foil Three Drug Smuggling Attempts

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

Psychologist Reveals Factors Triggering Violent and Aggressive Behaviour

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

Biometric SIM registration seen as strengthening trust in digital ecosystem

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

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

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

State-Owned Enterprise Performance Improves Thanks to Transformation

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

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

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

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

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

Rainforest Alliance promotes transition to regenerative agriculture

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