Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

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Prabowo Again Slams Experts Deemed Unpatriotic Over Rice Import Policies

President Prabowo Subianto has renewed his criticism of certain experts he considers unpatriotic, accusing them of supporting rice import policies that harm Indonesian farmers. Speaking at a national farmers' event in Gorontalo, he recounted a past experience where an advisor to a coordinating minister dismissed local farmers as inefficient compared to their Vietnamese counterparts. Prabowo expressed shock and sadness at the view, reiterating his stance that imports during harvest season devastate domestic prices and farmer livelihoods.

Governor Ahmad Luthfi Urges Central Java Regents and Mayors to Anticipate Long Dry Season

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has called on regional leaders to map drought-prone areas to safeguard food self-sufficiency targets amid forecasts of a prolonged dry season. Speaking at a harvest event in Sukoharjo, he pledged to optimise provincial agricultural support, including the distribution of 17,000 water pumps. The province is targeting 6.69 million tonnes of milled dry grain production by July 2026 as part of a national goal.

Polda Metro Jaya has not received pre-trial summons from Roy Suryo

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have yet to receive an official summons regarding a pre-trial hearing filed by Roy Suryo, a suspect in a defamation case linked to the authenticity of former President Joko Widodo's diploma. The hearing, which challenges the legality of his arrest and house search, is reportedly scheduled for 29 June 2026 at the South Jakarta District Court. Police have stated they are prepared to attend the proceedings once the formal notification is received.

Japan Protests China's Drilling Activity in East China Sea

Japan has lodged a formal protest with China over the placement of a mobile offshore drilling unit in the East China Sea, which Tokyo suspects is being used for new gas exploration. The Japanese government confirmed the rig was anchored on the Chinese side of the un-demarcated median line, but reiterated that the exclusive economic zone boundaries remain unresolved. Japan has urged China to resume stalled negotiations on joint resource development under a 2008 agreement.

Prabowo Recounts Rejecting Rice Imports, Shocked by Adviser Calling Indonesian Farmers 'Inefficient'

President Prabowo Subianto recounted his past efforts as head of the Indonesian Farmers Association (HKTI) to block rice imports that would have coincided with the harvest season, warning they would devastate local prices. He expressed shock at a government adviser's view that Indonesian farmers were inefficient and that importing from Vietnam was preferable. Prabowo framed his enduring political career as a mission to uplift farmers and labourers, whom he believes the elite have neglected.

Customs and West Java Government Destroy 44 Million Illegal Cigarettes Worth Rp 65 Billion

The Directorate General of Customs and Excise (Bea Cukai) in West Java, together with the provincial government, destroyed over 44 million illegal cigarettes seized between July 2025 and May 2026. The destroyed goods were valued at Rp 65.18 billion, with potential state losses of Rp 32.95 billion prevented. The public destruction in Garut underscores the government's commitment to transparency and combating the illicit tobacco trade.

Sony Sonjaya's Camp Reiterates 41 Names, Now Applies for JC to LPSK

The legal team of former BGN deputy chief Sony Sonjaya has applied for justice collaborator status with the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) after the Attorney General's Office rejected a similar request. They claim Sony has identified 41 influential figures allegedly involved in the free nutritious meal programme corruption scandal. The defence argues that protection is essential for Sony and his family's safety should he testify against these individuals.

Crypto Trading Can Start with Limited Capital, Discipline in Risk Management is Key

Ajaib Kripto highlights that cryptocurrency trading can be initiated with small capital due to the fractional nature of digital assets. The platform emphasises that disciplined risk management, avoiding emotional decisions like FOMO, and understanding market characteristics are crucial for beginners. Access to trading is becoming easier through integrated applications that offer real-time monitoring and transactions.

Getty Images Partners with OpenAI to Display Licensed Visuals in ChatGPT Search

Getty Images has announced a multi-year partnership with OpenAI, allowing licensed visual content to appear in ChatGPT search results. The deal aims to enhance the reliability and usefulness of AI-powered discovery, though details on whether Getty's images will be used for AI training remain undisclosed. This collaboration follows Getty's earlier restrictive stance on AI-generated art and a subsequent partnership with Perplexity AI.

Strong Signals of Resilience in Life Insurance Business Amid 2026 Turbulence

The Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI) expresses confidence in the sector's resilience for 2026, citing growth in new business premiums, total assets, and the number of insured individuals. Traditional products remain the primary growth driver, supplemented by single-premium unit-linked sales to financially literate segments. The association also notes that rising claims, particularly maturing policies, are a normal obligation but require more prudent asset and investment management.

Stressing Efficiency, Luhut Confident Free Nutritious Meal Programme Will Improve Within a Year

National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has expressed confidence that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme will significantly improve within six to twelve months. He acknowledged initial implementation was rushed, causing issues, but urged the public to be patient as the government refines the scheme. Luhut also emphasised the programme's potential multiplier effect on economic growth and called for a more phased, efficient approach.

Former Nutrition Agency Official Seeks Whistleblower Status Amid Free Meal Corruption Probe

Sony Sonjaya, former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency, has applied to the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) for justice collaborator status after being named a suspect in a corruption case involving the free nutritious meal programme. His legal team argues he requires protection after revealing dozens of other names, while the Attorney General's Office has rejected his request, deeming him a primary perpetrator who has not fully admitted his role.

Jakarta Governor Evaluates JAKIM After Participant Death, Highlights Medical Services

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is reviewing the organisation of the Jakarta International Marathon (JAKIM) 2026 following the death of a participant suspected of heat stroke. Despite a 35 per cent increase in medical personnel compared to the previous year, the governor acknowledged the need for improvements in care and health service availability. The medical team faced challenges due to a simultaneous surge in emergency calls on the second day of the event.

Fate of 2 Japanese Factories After Rumours of Relocating to Vietnam Spark Problems

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has investigated and dismissed rumours that two Japanese automotive component manufacturers in East Java plan to relocate to Vietnam and lay off thousands of workers. The false reports have already disrupted supply chains and demand for the companies, which together have invested over Rp1.9 trillion. The government has ordered mitigation measures to stabilise production and protect the investment climate.

Prabowo: Only in Indonesia Do Police Handle Agriculture and Soldiers Frequent Rice Fields

President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the unique involvement of Indonesia's security forces in food production, noting that only in Indonesia do police manage agriculture and military personnel work in the fields. He cited the Navy planting soybeans and the Air Force cultivating sugarcane as strategic efforts. Prabowo expressed confidence that this cross-sectoral approach will propel Indonesia to become a great nation.

Indonesia eyes nuclear power to drive economic growth

Indonesia's National Energy Council is pushing for nuclear power adoption as essential for economic growth, citing a global shift toward the technology. Public support remains low at around 39 percent, prompting calls for youth-led education on energy needs and modern safety protocols. The government has already identified 28 potential sites for the country's first nuclear plants, with three locations in Central Java and Bangka Belitung completing full evaluations.

Citizens Foil Snatch Theft Attempt in Tanjung Duren, West Jakarta

A group of residents and online motorcycle taxi drivers thwarted a gold necklace snatching in Tanjung Duren, West Jakarta, on Tuesday night. The two suspects were chased, fell from their motorcycle, and were beaten by the mob before being handed over to the police. One suspect sustained severe facial injuries, while the stolen necklace is believed to have been discarded during the chase.

MDKA Holds Shareholders' Meeting, Reshuffles Management and Distributes Rp300 Billion Dividend

PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk (MDKA) has announced a cash dividend of up to Rp300 billion following its annual and extraordinary general meetings. Shareholders also approved a private placement of up to 10% of the company's issued shares and a reshuffle of the board of directors. The company cited improved operational performance and progress at its gold and nickel subsidiaries as the basis for the dividend decision.

Bali Loses Title of Asia-Pacific's Most Beautiful Island, Here's Its Replacement

Bali has been dethroned as the most beautiful island in the Asia-Pacific by Thailand's Koh Samui in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026. The shift reflects intensifying competition among premium island destinations, with Bali dropping to third place amid ongoing challenges with mass tourism and visitor misconduct. Vietnam's Phu Quoc claimed second place, highlighting the rising appeal of luxury, authentic culture, and unspoiled nature sought by travellers.

Indonesia Moves Towards Circular Economy to Address Battery Production Challenges

Indonesia is shifting towards a circular economy to tackle challenges in electric vehicle battery production, including mineral availability and waste management. The government is implementing comprehensive regulations to support battery recycling and aims to integrate the country into the global supply chain, from raw material to battery cell and pack production. Officials are also seeking international collaboration, particularly with South Korean investors, to bring recycling technology and align with standards like the EU Battery Passport.

Apindo pushes for Joint Task Force to ensure timely IEU-CEPA ratification

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has proposed a Joint Task Force to coordinate the ratification and implementation of the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA). The call comes amid concerns that Indonesia's current GSP trade facility with the EU will expire at the end of 2026, creating a 'cliff edge' risk if the new agreement is not in force. Apindo emphasises the need to shift focus from negotiation to implementation to secure long-term market access and avoid tariff increases.

Six Mass Organisation Members Kill Pematangsiantar Man Over Tattoo Dispute, Victim Turns Out to Be Wrong Target

Police in Pematangsiantar have arrested six members of the IPK mass organisation for the fatal assault of 24-year-old Jaka Malau. The attack, which was captured on video and widely shared on social media, stemmed from a dispute over a tattoo price but the victim was mistakenly targeted. The case highlights the ongoing issue of violent vigilantism by community organisations in Indonesia.

House Suggests Free Nutritious Meals for Teachers, Not Just Distributing Lunchboxes to Students

A deputy speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives has proposed extending the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to teachers, arguing they deserve the benefit for their role in distributing meals. The Health Minister separately suggested adding tuberculosis patients, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers to the priority recipient list, citing international research from India and China.

Riau Police Win Two Awards from Information Commission, Chief Calls It a Special Gift for Bhayangkara Anniversary

The Riau Regional Police (Polda Riau) has received two awards from the Riau Province Information Commission for its commitment to public information transparency and accountable service. The accolades, including an 'Achievement Motivation Person' award for the police chief, were described as a special gift ahead of the 80th Bhayangkara (National Police) Day. The recognition highlights the force's digital transformation and community engagement programmes under the 'Precision Police' framework.

Viral Video of Passengers Sitting in Bus Luggage Compartment Prompts Police Safety Warning

A viral video showing passengers, including a woman, sitting inside the luggage compartment of a packed Cilegon-Cikande bus has drawn a stern warning from Cilegon Traffic Police. Authorities stated the practice is extremely dangerous and violates Indonesia's Traffic and Road Transportation Law. Police will increase surveillance and enforcement against public transport operators who allow passengers in cargo areas.

KAMMI Backs MUI on LGBT Crackdown, Citing Threat to Youth Health

The Indonesian Muslim Student Action Union (KAMMI) has endorsed the Indonesian Ulema Council's (MUI) stance on addressing LGBT issues, calling on students to act as a moral bulwark. KAMMI officials argue that the phenomenon threatens the nation's moral fabric and family resilience, particularly targeting the younger generation. They also highlighted health risks, including the potential spread of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV/AIDS, urging serious prevention and recovery efforts.

Police officer fractures knee while securing protest at Parliament Complex

A senior Indonesian police officer suffered a fractured right kneecap during a protest by the PMII student group outside the Parliament Complex in Jakarta. The officer, AKBP Adri Desas Furyanto, was injured while attempting to extinguish a fire set by demonstrators. Police confirmed he is currently receiving treatment at the Kramat Jati Police Hospital.

Shopee Launches Promotional Programme Management Feature in Seller Centre

Shopee has introduced a new 'My Programme Management' page within its Seller Centre to enhance transparency for merchants managing optional promotional campaigns. The feature provides detailed visibility on costs, benefits, and real-time participation status for programmes like Free Shipping XTRA and Affiliate Marketing Solutions. This update aims to help sellers make more informed business decisions by clearly outlining the impact of promotions on their cost of goods sold and profit margins.

Here's Why the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is Accelerating Fishermen's Village Development

The Indonesian government is accelerating the construction of 'Red and White Fishermen's Villages' to boost the welfare of coastal communities and stimulate regional economic growth. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono explained the programme targets around 5,000 villages where livelihoods depend entirely on the sea, creating integrated ecosystems from upstream to downstream. The initiative aims to improve fish quality and market access through infrastructure like ice plants and cold storage, with a target of 1,369 villages by end-2026.

Supply Chain Threats Persist Despite Strait of Hormuz Normalisation

The resumption of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz has eased immediate logistics bottlenecks, but industry leaders warn that global supply chain risks remain elevated. Significant damage to energy infrastructure in the Gulf, estimated at US$58 billion, means production and distribution capacity will take years to fully recover. Indonesia is urged to bolster national logistics resilience, energy storage, and source diversification to mitigate ongoing price volatility and geopolitical uncertainty.

MSCI Keeps Indonesia in Emerging Markets but Issues Stern Warning on Share Transparency

MSCI has retained Indonesia's equity market in its Emerging Markets category but warned it could be reclassified to Frontier Markets by November 2026 if transparency reforms are not implemented. The index provider highlighted persistent investor complaints about opaque shareholding structures and coordinated trading practices. The warning puts immediate pressure on conglomerate stocks with artificially low free floats, while state-owned enterprises and major banks are seen as safer havens.

Pramono: Jakarta International Marathon Generates Rp 255 Billion Economic Impact

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung stated that the Jakarta International Marathon (Jakim) 2026 generated an economic multiplier effect exceeding Rp 255 billion. The announcement came alongside a commitment to evaluate safety protocols following the death of a participant from a suspected heart attack and dehydration.

Scientists Identify Critical Age When Gadgets Have the Greatest Impact on Children

New research has pinpointed specific critical age windows in early childhood when excessive screen time most significantly harms brain development and cognitive abilities. The study found that limiting gadget use and increasing physical activity during these sensitive periods can lead to marked recovery in executive functions like focus and self-control. Experts urge parents and policymakers to concentrate interventions on these crucial developmental stages rather than merely monitoring overall screen duration.

Attorney General Proposes Merging Special and General Crimes Units into Single Operations Deputy

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has proposed merging the Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes (JAM Pidsus) and the Deputy Attorney General for General Crimes (JAM Pidum) into a single JAM Operasi. He argued the current separation is ineffective and leads to fragmented implementing regulations. The proposal, still in the discussion phase, is intended to streamline operations and support the implementation of the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code.

Indonesia, Poland sign halal products pact to boost global recognition

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has signed a mutual recognition agreement with Poland's Muslim Religious Union to expand the global reach of Indonesian halal certification. The deal aims to harmonise halal standards, facilitate information exchange, and boost trade and investment in halal products between Indonesia and Europe. Officials emphasised that halal is now seen as a universal marker of quality, health, and sustainability, supporting Indonesia's ambition to become a global halal hub.

Prabowo Awarded Golden Adhi Bhakti Medal by Farmers and Fishermen in Gorontalo

President Prabowo Subianto has been awarded the Golden Adhi Bhakti Tani Nelayan Maha Utama medal by the National Contact Group of Farmers and Fishermen (KTNA) at the XVII National Farmers and Fishermen Week in Gorontalo. The honour recognises his dedication and commitment to improving the welfare of Indonesian farmers and fishermen. The KTNA chairman expressed hope that the President would continue to lead the nation towards progress and prosperity.

YTR, Victim of Taufik Hidayat's Confinement, Begins to Speak; Police Obtain Key Information

The condition of YTR, a 29-year-old woman allegedly confined and tortured by her boyfriend in Bandung for three years, is improving, allowing police to begin communicating with her. West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Setiawan confirmed investigators have started gathering crucial information from the victim at Hasan Sadikin Hospital. The suspect, Taufik Hidayat, was recently arrested after a manhunt, marking a significant development in the high-profile case.

Prabowo Amused as Crowd Cheers Cabinet Secretary Teddy More Loudly

President Prabowo Subianto jokingly expressed surprise at the enthusiastic reception for Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya during a farmers' event in Gorontalo. The crowd cheered loudly for the young military officer, prompting Prabowo to quip that he, as president, should be the one receiving such a welcome.

UBK Student Union Head Claims to Receive Rp 20 Million from Police, Metro Jaya Police Respond

The Metro Jaya Police have responded to allegations that a student from Bung Karno University received Rp 20 million from police prior to a protest. The police spokesperson questioned the veracity of the claim, suggesting the money could have come from someone impersonating an officer. The university has confirmed the student made an official admission of receiving the funds.

Dating Scam: Pedaw Swaps Victim's Motorcycle for Meth in Kampung Ambon

Jakarta police have arrested DC, known as Pedaw, the mastermind behind a dating scam that led to the violent robbery of a victim's motorcycle. The stolen vehicle was subsequently exchanged for two grams of crystal methamphetamine and Rp 500,000 in cash in the Kampung Ambon area. The suspect faces charges of assault and robbery.

Lorry Overturns on Tomang Flyover, Construction Iron Falls Again During Evacuation

A lorry carrying construction iron overturned on the Tomang Flyover in West Jakarta early Wednesday, scattering its load and causing major traffic disruption. During the subsequent crane evacuation, part of the load fell again onto Jalan Arteri S Parman, though no casualties were reported. Police implemented traffic diversions and temporary road closures as clearance efforts continued into the afternoon.

Deputy Minister: Rp14 Trillion Irrigation Revitalisation to Support Food Self-Sufficiency

The Indonesian government has allocated Rp14 trillion for irrigation network revitalisation in 2026, a significant increase aimed at boosting cropping indexes and farmer productivity. Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono stated the programme, which will continue through 2029, is central to President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to achieving national food self-sufficiency and sovereignty. The initiative also includes ensuring the availability of quality seeds and modernising agricultural machinery across the archipelago.

Jakarta Council Demands Cable Audit After Fatal Accident Involving High School Student

A Jakarta councillor has called for a comprehensive audit of the capital's overhead cable network following the death of a 16-year-old student. The student fell from a motorcycle after it snagged on a dangling cable and was subsequently run over by a bus. The councillor described the incident as a systemic failure of utility infrastructure management and urged strict sanctions against negligent companies.

Pramono: KJP and KJMU Revoked Only for Students Involved in Bullying and Brawls

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has clarified that the Jakarta Smart Card (KJP) and Jakarta Superior Student Card (KJMU) will only be revoked for students involved in misconduct such as bullying and street brawls. He stressed that the overall number of recipients will not be reduced, as education remains a key priority to tackle the capital's Gini ratio. The administration also plans to partner with the central government's LPDP scholarship fund next year to send Jakarta students abroad.

Proving Local Product Quality, Banjarnegara Angklung Penetrates the American Market

A producer of the traditional bamboo musical instrument angklung from Banjarnegara, Central Java, has officially exported its first shipment to the United States. The export release, facilitated by Customs and Excise, marks a successful outcome of a local export development programme. This milestone demonstrates the global competitiveness of Indonesian MSMEs and opens further international opportunities, with product samples from 25 other local businesses also being sent to Japan.

Prabowo: I Know Who Funds the Protests

President Prabowo Subianto has claimed that recent student and civil society demonstrations were financed by parties opposed to his administration, asserting he knows the identities of the funders. He expressed regret over the protests, arguing that his government deserves full support as it strives to deliver the best for the people. Prabowo likened the situation to a football match where the public should cheer for their own team rather than jeer during play.

Bandung Confinement Case: MUI Urges Parents to Supervise Children's Romantic Relationships

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called on parents to strengthen oversight of their children's romantic relationships following a case of confinement and torture in Bandung. The council emphasised the family's crucial role in protecting young people and equipping them with religious values to recognise unhealthy relationships. MUI also urged the younger generation to leave partners who exhibit toxic or violent behaviour.

KKP Builds Salt Production Centre, Confident of Achieving Salt Self-Sufficiency by 2027

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is advancing national salt production through a new 200-hectare industrial centre on Rote Island, East Nusa Tenggara. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono expressed confidence that this initiative, alongside fisheries export growth exceeding USD 6 billion in 2025, will help the country achieve salt self-sufficiency by 2027. The strategy includes both extensification and intensification to meet demand for consumption and industrial salt.

Colon Cancer Symptoms Often Mistaken for Haemorrhoids, Experts Warn of Dangers

Medical experts are urging the public to be more vigilant as symptoms of colorectal cancer frequently mimic those of haemorrhoids, leading to late-stage diagnoses. The confusion often centres on rectal bleeding, causing patients to self-medicate while malignant tumours progress. Early detection through colonoscopy remains critical, with lifestyle factors and regular screening for those over 45 highlighted as key preventive measures.

Attorney General Discusses Proposal to Merge General and Special Crimes Units Under Operations Deputy

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has proposed merging the General Crimes (Pidum) and Special Crimes (Pidsus) units under a single Jaksa Agung Muda Operasi (Junior Attorney General for Operations) to improve the implementation of the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. He argued that the current separation creates regulatory fragmentation and inefficiency, while also highlighting the shift towards restorative justice and the challenges posed by incomplete implementing regulations. The proposal remains a discussion point pending expert input.