Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

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The End of Smartphones Is Nigh: Cheaper Replacements Proliferate

Tech leaders Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg have long predicted the demise of the smartphone, envisioning futures dominated by brain chips and smart glasses respectively. Meta has now launched a new line of AI-powered smart glasses starting at a more accessible price point of US$299, significantly undercutting its previous Ray-Ban models. This move aims to accelerate mass adoption and challenges competitors like Snap, as Meta currently commands over 76% of the global smart glasses market.

Prabowo on Continuing MBG: Nothing Is More Urgent Than an Empty Stomach

President Prabowo Subianto strongly defended the continuation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during a farmers' and fishermen's event in Gorontalo, asserting that no issue is more critical than hunger. He challenged critics to ask rural communities and children directly about the programme's necessity, citing UN warnings of mass global starvation. Prabowo also highlighted Indonesia's growing agricultural exports, including fertiliser and rice, to countries such as Australia.

University of Liverpool Expert: New PM Won't Alter UK's Stance on Ukraine

A University of Liverpool politics lecturer argues that Britain's policy towards Ukraine is unlikely to shift significantly under a new prime minister, citing a broad political consensus. Andrew Roe-Crines suggests only the Reform UK party offers a different approach and calls for London to soften its rhetoric towards Russia for the sake of peace.

Prabowo Recounts Confronting Aburizal Bakrie to Halt Rice Imports During Harvest Season

President Prabowo Subianto shared a past encounter with former Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Aburizal Bakrie, where he urged the government to stop rice imports to protect local farmers during harvest. He expressed dismay at advisors who argued Indonesian farmers were inefficient and suggested buying cheaper Vietnamese rice instead. Prabowo emphasised that the nation's independence was fought for to ensure the welfare of its people, not to rely on imports.

KPK Summons 13 Witnesses in Silmy Karim Case, Including Bali Visa Agency Boss

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned 13 witnesses in a graft case involving former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim. The witnesses include civil servants from the ministry and directors of visa service companies in Bali. The case concerns alleged extortion and gratification in the processing of residence permits for foreign nationals, with total suspected proceeds reaching Rp 145.5 billion.

Jakarta Railway Engineering Centre Head Summoned by KPK in Rail Project Corruption Case

The head of Jakarta's Class I Railway Engineering Centre has been summoned as a witness by Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in an ongoing investigation into railway procurement graft. The case, which began with a sting operation in 2023, has already seen 21 individuals named as suspects, including former officials and contractors. Most of the suspects have been convicted, and the KPK recently received a restitution payment of hundreds of millions of rupiah from a former ministerial advisor.

Netanyahu Heats Up Against Trump, Israel Heads Towards Split with US

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared Israel must reduce its reliance on foreign support and build an independent weapons system, signalling a deepening rift with the Trump administration. The remarks follow US criticism of Israeli ministers opposing a US-Iran memorandum of understanding mediated by Pakistan to end regional conflicts. Israel has historically received over US$300 billion in US aid, with a current agreement providing US$3.8 billion annually for arms purchases until 2028.

Manpower Ministry pushes OSH culture maturity to reduce workplace accidents

Indonesia's Manpower Ministry is intensifying efforts to mature occupational safety and health (OSH) culture as a strategic measure to curb workplace accidents. Despite a declining trend in incidents, the ministry emphasises that embedding safety into organisational values and daily practices is essential for sustainable industry. The initiative calls for stronger leadership, risk communication, and joint commitment from all stakeholders to protect workers and boost national productivity.

Pramono Vows Strict Action Against Illegal Waste Disposal in Jakarta

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has warned of strict enforcement against residents who litter, particularly in rivers and waterways, citing a new gubernatorial instruction on waste sorting. He emphasised that the city cannot pass on its waste problems to future generations as Jakarta approaches its fifth centenary.

DPR Deputy Speaker: Rp5 Million a Decent Figure for Teacher Welfare

House of Representatives (DPR) Commission X Deputy Chairman Lalu Hadrian stated that Rp5 million per month is the minimum decent salary for teachers in Indonesia. He confirmed that the commission has pushed the government to increase teacher pay and noted that the 2027 budget already shows allocations for salary and allowance increases for both civil servant and non-civil servant teachers.

Kepri Provincial Government Targets Construction of Seven 'Sekolah Rakyat' Starting 2026

The Kepulauan Riau provincial government is planning to build seven 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) to expand educational access for underprivileged communities. Three priority locations in Tanjungpinang, Anambas, and Natuna are expected to begin construction this year, with a tender process targeted for October 2026. Each boarding school will be fully funded by the state budget at a cost of IDR 250 billion and will feature comprehensive educational and sports facilities.

Jakarta's 499th Anniversary Gift: City Administration Receives 499 Land Certificates Worth Rp 22.2 Trillion

The Jakarta Provincial Government has received 499 land-use certificates from the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning, valued at Rp 22.2 trillion, as a gift for the city's 499th anniversary. Governor Pramono Anung stated the certification of 85 hectares of land is crucial for securing legal certainty over public assets, which are frequently subject to disputes. This latest handover brings the total value of assets certified in the past six weeks to approximately Rp 124.2 trillion.

Health Minister Suggests Wealthier Citizens Pay Higher BPJS Premiums Amid Deficit

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has proposed a 'gotong royong' premium model for BPJS Kesehatan, implying higher contributions from the wealthy to address the scheme's financial shortfall. The minister also outlined plans to expand hospital networks in underserved regions and tackle a critical shortage of 70,000 specialist doctors. These measures aim to strengthen the national health system's resilience and support broader economic growth.

Deputy Minister Stella Encourages Adoption of China's Innovation and Technology Cluster Model

Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Technology Stella Christie has urged Indonesia to adopt China's innovation cluster model, which contributes 13.4 per cent to China's GDP while using only 2.5 per cent of its land. She highlighted that the key to this success is large-scale collaboration between universities and industry, with Indonesia currently preparing a roadmap to shift from commodity reliance to high-value manufacturing. The initiative is supported by over 1,146 active educational cooperation documents between Indonesia and China.

Possessing 'Rare Treasure', This Is What the Indonesian Government Must Do

Indonesia's development of its rare earth elements (REE) requires more than just regulation, according to a senior lawmaker. The government must also establish robust governance, secure technology, attract investment, and guarantee market access. The global supply chain for these critical minerals remains dominated by a handful of major nations.

National Food Agency Projects Decline in Rice Production for 2026

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) anticipates a slight decrease in rice production this year, though overall stocks remain in surplus. The projection follows parliamentary scrutiny over the quality of rice stored in Bulog warehouses, with reports of damaged stock exceeding 3,600 tonnes in Madura.

Prabowo Reveals Why He Always Stands with Farmers and Fishermen

President Prabowo Subianto explained his enduring solidarity with farmers and fishermen during a national event in Gorontalo, citing the historical support they provided to Indonesia's fledgling military. He highlighted that the nation's 160 million farmers and 14 million fishermen are the backbone of food security, without which no civilisation can survive. Prabowo urged all soldiers to remember the sacrifices of these communities who sustained the armed forces during the struggle for independence.

Company Fails to Pay Rp4.13 Billion in Tax, Director Sentenced to One Year in Prison

A foreign investment company, PT H, and its director KH have been convicted of tax crimes for failing to remit collected Value Added Tax (PPN) to the state, causing losses of Rp4.13 billion. The South Jakarta District Court sentenced the director to one year in prison and a fine, while also ordering the seizure of assets from both the corporation and the individual. The tax authority emphasised that the case demonstrates criminal liability can apply to both companies and their management for deliberate tax violations.

Taunting Jokowi Camp, Doctor Tifa Posts Photo in Detainee Vest: Hey Termul, This Is My Armour!

Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa and a suspect in the alleged fake diploma case of former President Joko Widodo, posted a photo of herself in an orange detainee vest on social media. She described the vest as a symbol of her resistance against falsehood and injustice, directly addressing online critics she calls 'termul'. Doctor Tifa and fellow suspect Roy Suryo were transferred to the South Jakarta Prosecutor's Office but were not detained after prosecutors granted a suspension request.

BNPP Maps 27 Unofficial Crossings on Indonesia–Timor Leste Border

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) has surveyed 27 unofficial crossing points along the border with Timor Leste in Belu Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The assessment aims to understand the social, economic, and security characteristics of these routes, which range from traditional community paths to potential smuggling and human trafficking corridors. The findings will inform a proportional policy response that may include upgrading some routes to official status rather than simply closing them.

DPR Hearing: Expert Reveals Increasingly Sophisticated Cheating Methods in University Entrance Exams

During a House of Representatives (DPR) working committee meeting, former higher education director general Prof Nizam highlighted the growing sophistication of cheating in Indonesia's national university entrance exams (SPMB). He detailed the use of advanced technology such as miniature ear implants and organised cheating rings involving professional 'jockeys'.

Munafri Ungkap 3 Alasan Investor Harus Lirik Makassar di IGS 2026

Wali Kota Makassar Munafri Arifuddin memaparkan potensi investasi kota tersebut di hadapan delegasi 28 negara dalam forum IGS 2026, menekankan letak geografis strategis, pertumbuhan ekonomi 6,61 persen, dan transformasi digital smart city. Realisasi investasi Makassar pada 2025 mencapai Rp5,2 triliun, dengan Malaysia sebagai investor asing terbesar. Pemerintah kota menawarkan proyek strategis seperti Sport Tourism Hub dan ekowisata Pulau Lanjukang untuk menarik lebih banyak modal global.

TUGU Speaks Out on State-Owned Insurance Consolidation, Here's the Update

PT Asuransi Tugu Pratama Indonesia (TUGU) has confirmed its involvement in a study for the consolidation of state-owned insurance firms under the Danantara investment body. The government targets the merger process to be completed by January 2027, with technical discussions expected to conclude by July 2026. The consolidation aims to strengthen the industry's capital, governance, and competitiveness while addressing challenges such as portfolio transfers and the mandatory spin-off of sharia units.

Denmark Begins Deploying Conscripts to Greenland Amid US Interest

Denmark is deploying conscripts to Greenland for the first time, reinforcing its military presence in the autonomous territory that has drawn renewed attention from US President Donald Trump. The move follows accusations from Washington that Copenhagen has neglected Arctic security and comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions over the strategic island.

MSCI Retains Indonesia; Is Nuclear Energy the Answer for the Nation's Power Needs?

Global index provider MSCI has confirmed Indonesia will remain in its emerging market category for 2026. Meanwhile, as the country seeks reliable electricity solutions for its vast archipelago, a US nuclear expert suggests Small Modular Reactors could be a viable option.

Indonesia Strengthens Global Forestry Leadership at FCLP in London

Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to global forestry and climate action at the Forest and Climate Leaders' Partnership (FCLP) ministerial event in London. The country outlined three strategic agendas, including promoting high-integrity carbon markets and strengthening the International Tropical Peatland Center (ITPC) as a global collaboration platform. These initiatives aim to leverage Indonesia's significant experience in managing 13 million hectares of tropical peatlands to attract conservation finance and share best practices.

Israel Strongly Indicated to Betray Gaza Ceasefire, How Will Resistance Fighters Respond?

Israel is increasingly signalling its intention to abandon the Gaza ceasefire agreement, potentially resuming full-scale war with US approval. Observers note Israel's focus on disarming Palestinian resistance groups, whilst it continues to violate truce terms, expand its military presence, and kill hundreds of Palestinians. A UN committee has warned that the deliberate killing of children strengthens indications of genocidal intent.

Ahead of 35th Congress, NU Criticised for Being Full of 'Thugs'

A prominent Islamic scholar has warned that Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), Indonesia's largest Muslim organisation, is in a critical state as its 35th Congress approaches. He claims the organisation is increasingly infiltrated by 'thugs' who use intimidation to pursue personal ambitions and political power. The criticism follows chaotic scenes at a recent NU conference, which he says exposed the erosion of ethical norms and the exploitation of the organisation for access to government and oligarchic circles.

Indonesia Could Have Nuclear Power in Just Three Years, Here's the Evidence

A nuclear stakeholder consultant claims Indonesia could deploy nuclear power within three years using small modular reactor (SMR) technology. The rapid construction timeline of projects like Canada's BWRX-300 demonstrates the potential for SMRs to bolster energy security across Indonesia's archipelago. International cooperation and existing supply chains could further accelerate adoption.

CATL Develops Slim Battery Design for High-Performance EVs

Chinese battery manufacturer CATL has patented a new slim cell design aimed at high-performance electric vehicles. The innovation reduces battery thickness, enabling lower vehicle profiles without sacrificing cabin space. The design also incorporates a mechanical safety feature to prevent internal short circuits caused by road vibrations.

The Republic's Love Letters to Its Children

An opinion piece critiques two 2026 Indonesian regulations as discriminatory 'love letters' from the state. It argues that Law No. 4/2026 grants excessive legal and tax immunity to a favoured, well-connected 'first child', while Government Regulation No. 20/2026 imposes unequal tax burdens on struggling small entrepreneurs, the 'second child', undermining the republican principle of shared public interest.

House Commission III Urges Police to Apply Layered Charges Against Bandung Kidnapping Suspect

The Indonesian House of Representatives Commission III has urged the police to apply multiple criminal charges with the heaviest possible penalties against a man suspected of kidnapping and torturing a woman in Bandung. The call aims to deliver justice for the victim and serve as a strong deterrent against similar violent crimes. The suspect was apprehended after police traced his digital footprint through online transactions.

KPK Summons Wife of Customs Official Suspect as Witness in Import Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned the wife of a senior customs official implicated in a major import corruption scandal. She will be questioned as a witness regarding alleged illicit financial flows from a cargo company to officials. The case involves over Rp 71 billion in alleged bribes and gratuities received by three Directorate General of Customs and Excise officers.

Prabowo Warns: Be Careful, I Know Who's Funding the Protests!

President Prabowo Subianto has issued a stark warning to parties funding demonstrations, claiming he already knows their identities. Speaking at a farmers' and fishers' national event in Gorontalo, he alleged some protesters were paid Rp200,000 and were unaware of the protest's purpose. He urged national unity, likening support for the government to backing a football team during a match.

PNM and Danantara Strengthen Governance and Women's Empowerment

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) is strengthening its governance and transparency in synergy with Danantara, while expanding its empowerment programmes for underprivileged women entrepreneurs. PNM has now served 23.1 million clients, making it the world's largest microfinance and empowerment institution for women. The collaboration aims to enhance accountability and ensure financing reaches remote areas, including frontier, outermost, and disadvantaged regions.

KKP Targets Fisheries Export Expansion Beyond China and the US

Indonesia's fisheries exports exceeded USD 6 billion in 2025, and the Marine Affairs and Fisheries Minister remains optimistic about sustaining growth in 2026 despite global turmoil. The ministry is developing new production hubs, such as a large integrated shrimp farm in Waingapu, to diversify export markets beyond the current main destinations of the US and China. Efforts also include strengthening supply chain oversight and boosting national salt production through a new industrial centre on Rote Island.

Minister: First day of school a gateway to happiness, not trauma

Indonesia's Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has declared that the new Friendly School Orientation (MPLS Ramah) must be a joyful welcome for students, shifting away from activities prone to bullying and violence. The initiative is backed by a new regulation that explicitly bans physical and psychological violence, illegal levies, and alumni involvement, while mandating parental participation. The ministry emphasises that the first day of school should be a safe and comfortable start, free from fear and trauma.

Si Pedaw, Dating Scam Fugitive in West Jakarta Arrested by Police

Indonesian police have arrested DC, known as Pedaw, the main suspect in a violent dating scam in Kalideres, West Jakarta. The fugitive was apprehended at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport's cargo terminal and is accused of assaulting a victim and stealing his motorcycle, which was later exchanged for methamphetamine and cash. The arrest follows an investigation into a broader scheme where victims were lured via dating apps, assaulted, and robbed.

Government Prepares Transport Stimulus for School Holidays and Year-End

The Indonesian government has announced a Rp2.04 trillion transport stimulus package covering school holidays in 2026 and the Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027 period. The initiative, part of a broader Semester II economic stimulus directed by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to maintain purchasing power, boost mobility, and drive national economic growth. Discounts and incentives will apply to trains, sea transport, ferries, and air travel.

GBK Asset Reclamation: Marinus Gea Urges Government to Prove Tangible Benefits

MP Marinus Gea has cautioned that reclaiming state assets in the Gelora Bung Karno complex, including the former Hotel Sultan site, must go beyond legal victory. He insists the government must demonstrate clear economic, social, and fiscal benefits post-takeover to avoid the process being seen as a mere administrative transfer. Gea also called for a comprehensive audit of high-value strategic state assets by the BPK, BPKP, and Ministry of Finance.

Middle East War a Boon for Indonesia's 'Treasure Trove', How Can That Be?

Indonesia stands to gain from heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East as rising crude oil prices lift other key commodities. A senior Bank Indonesia official notes that the nation's exports of coal and crude palm oil are benefiting from increased demand and improved competitiveness. The shift back to cheaper coal and a weaker rupiah further enhance the appeal of Indonesian shipments.

Exposing Big Names in MBG Case, Sony Sonjaya Requests Family Protection

Former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, has appealed to the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to safeguard his family as he prepares to reveal prominent figures allegedly involved in the free nutritious meal programme corruption scandal. His lawyer made the plea after the Attorney General's Office rejected Sony's request for justice collaborator status, citing his role as a main perpetrator and his failure to confess. The defence insists LPSK must act objectively without intervention given the importance of the individuals to be named.

Prabowo Responds: House Commission X Says Teacher Salaries Have Risen, But Not Yet Optimal

House Commission X Deputy Chairman Lalu Hadrian acknowledged that teacher salaries have increased under President Prabowo Subianto's administration, but described the rise as not yet optimal. He stated the government is currently formulating an ideal salary scale for teachers, while the President attributed budget constraints to massive state revenue leakages estimated at Rp2,500 trillion annually.

Bank Mandiri Launches Health Programme and Digitises Ancient Manuscripts in Jogja

Bank Mandiri has reinforced its commitment to sustainable community development through a series of corporate social responsibility programmes in Yogyakarta. The initiatives include free health check-ups for royal court retainers, financial literacy training for market traders, and the digitisation of ancient manuscripts from the Pakualaman library. These efforts aim to improve public health, empower local micro-enterprises, and preserve cultural heritage.

Grab and Gojek Announce 8% App Commission for Ride-Hailing Drivers Starting 1 July 2026

Grab Indonesia and Gojek have confirmed they will implement an 8% commission fee for two-wheeled passenger transport services from 1 July 2026, increasing drivers' take-home pay to 92%. The move follows a directive from President Prabowo Subianto and aims to balance driver welfare, consumer affordability, and ecosystem sustainability.

Japanese PM Heckled by Angry Protesters at WWII Commemoration

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi faced vocal protests during a World War II memorial in Okinawa, with demonstrators condemning Japan's shift away from its post-war pacifist stance. The anger stems from recent policy changes under Takaichi, including loosening arms export rules and her push to revise the pacifist constitution. The protests highlight growing domestic and regional tensions over Japan's military trajectory, particularly concerning Okinawa's strategic role and relations with China.

Taufik Hidayat Arrested, KDM Discusses Fate of Rp 250 Million Bounty

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi expressed gratitude to the police for swiftly arresting Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in a kidnapping and assault case. He also stated he would meet with the provincial police chief to discuss the fate of the Rp 250 million bounty, as the reward was intended for civilians rather than law enforcement officers.

Israel Threatens to Act Alone Against Iran, Ben-Gvir Calls US Naive

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has declared the United States 'very naive' for believing Iran will abandon its nuclear programme, signalling Israel's readiness to act independently against Tehran. The remarks highlight growing divergences between Washington and Tel Aviv over diplomatic engagement with Iran, even as a US-brokered peace process is underway. Tensions remain high following recent military exchanges, despite a preliminary peace agreement signed in June.

Hoegeng Family's Hopes and Prayers for the Police Ahead of the 80th Bhayangkara Day

The family of former National Police Chief General Hoegeng Iman Santoso expressed gratitude and shared their aspirations for the Indonesian National Police (Polri) during a graveside pilgrimage ahead of the 80th Bhayangkara Day. They prayed for the institution to remain beloved by the public and to continue providing the best service as a true protector and servant of the people. The pilgrimage took place at the Giri Tama cemetery in Bogor, West Java.

Deputy Police Chief Launches 42nd Book 'Guarding Food, Reaping Peace'

Deputy Chief of the Indonesian National Police, Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo, has launched his 42nd book, framing food security as a critical national stability issue rather than just an agricultural concern. The book details the police role in safeguarding national food programmes, particularly for corn commodities, to ensure social stability and public welfare. It is intended as a reference for policymakers and academics on the intersection of food security, governance, and national security.