Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 1,151-1,200 of 1,678 articles

DPR Urges Investigation into Student Mobilisation for MBG Support in Batam

The House of Representatives (DPR) has called for an investigation into reports that students in Batam were mobilised to participate in a rally supporting the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Commission X Deputy Chairman Lalu Hadrian Irfani expressed concern that such actions could disrupt the learning process, stating that aspirations should be conveyed by school officials rather than students. The rally, which took place on a Sunday, reportedly involved hundreds of primary and junior high school students and was organised after complaints from parents about delays in the MBG programme.

IHSG Plunges 1.62% in First Session, Investors Disappointed by MSCI Announcement?

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell sharply by 1.62% in the first trading session after MSCI decided to keep Indonesia in its Emerging Market classification. Investor sentiment was dampened by MSCI's critical notes on transparency issues, free float, and suspected coordinated trading, despite recent reforms by Indonesian financial authorities.

Bukalapak Accelerates Strengthening of Four Business Lines, Revenue Grows 63% in Q1 2026

PT Bukalapak.com Tbk is accelerating its business transformation by focusing on four core segments: Mitra Bukalapak, Gaming, Investment, and Retail. The strategy shift, which included discontinuing physical goods sales on its marketplace, has yielded a 63% year-on-year revenue increase to Rp 2.4 trillion in the first quarter of 2026. The company also achieved a positive Adjusted EBITDA of Rp 4 billion, reversing a loss from the previous year.

Minister Wihaji Reveals MBG Coverage for Pregnant Women, Breastfeeding Mothers, and Toddlers Still at 38.51%

Minister Wihaji reported that only 38.51 percent of the targeted 25 million beneficiaries in the '3B' group—pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers—have received the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. While 75 percent of nutritional service units are now serving this group, the overall coverage remains low. The ministry plans to establish new communication channels with the National Nutrition Agency and introduce new distribution strategies to accelerate the programme.

Farmers' Group Urges Governance Reform to Stabilise Chicken Prices

The Indonesian Independent Farmers Association (Permindo) is calling for improved governance of feed imports and supply chains to stabilise chicken prices. With live bird prices at Rp15,000–Rp17,000 per kg against production costs of Rp22,000 per kg, farmers face losses of up to Rp10,000 per bird. The group warns that structural issues, not just oversupply, are creating a cost-price squeeze that threatens the sustainability of smallholder poultry operations.

Petrochemical Industry Pushes for Quality and Environmental Standards

Indonesia's petrochemical sector is increasingly adopting international standards for quality, environmental management, and occupational safety to boost competitiveness. PT LOTTE Chemical Indonesia has secured Integrated Management System certification from BSI Group, covering ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001. The company views these standards as foundational for supporting reliable and sustainable growth in the national petrochemical industry amid rising domestic demand.

Prabowo Recounts Opposing Rice Imports During Meeting with Aburizal Bakrie

President Prabowo Subianto recounted a past meeting with former Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Aburizal Bakrie, where he strongly opposed rice imports. Prabowo argued that importing rice during harvest season would devastate local farmers' prices and criticised neoliberal economic views that prioritise efficiency over the welfare of smallholders. He framed this experience as a key reason for his persistent political engagement.

Rupiah Under Pressure Against Dollar, BI Chief Urges Citizens to Use Local Currency

Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor has called on the public to help stabilise the rupiah by prioritising its use in domestic transactions. The appeal comes as the currency continues to weaken against a strengthening US dollar, opening at Rp17,900 per USD. The central bank has also introduced a cap on dollar purchases to improve governance rather than restrict usage.

Jombang Hospital Orthopaedic Specialist Warns of Sarcopenia Dangers

An orthopaedic specialist at Jombang Regional General Hospital has cautioned that sarcopenia, the progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, is a serious degenerative condition often mistaken for normal ageing. The condition significantly increases the risk of falls, fractures, and metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes. The hospital emphasises that early detection and lifestyle interventions, including adequate protein intake and resistance training, are crucial to preserving elderly independence.

Lorry Overturns on Tomang Flyover in West Jakarta, Spilling Steel Cargo onto Road

A trailer lorry carrying steel overturned on the Tomang Flyover in West Jakarta early Wednesday morning, scattering its load onto the arterial road below. The driver lost control during an uphill left manoeuvre, but no other road users were injured. Authorities temporarily closed the road for evacuation, and traffic has since returned to normal.

Prabowo Warns: I Know Who Pays for the Protests

President Prabowo Subianto issued a stark warning during a farmers' and fishermen's event in Gorontalo, claiming he knows the financiers behind recent demonstrations. He suggested some protesters were paid as little as Rp 200,000 and were unaware of the protest's purpose. Prabowo also urged national unity, comparing Indonesia to a football team that should be supported during the match and corrected afterwards.

Fahira Idris Condemns Alleged Abduction and Torture of Woman in Bandung, Demands Severe Punishment

Senator and women's activist Fahira Idris has strongly condemned the alleged abduction, torture, and severe abuse of a woman in Bandung, calling for swift and victim-centred legal action. She urged law enforcement to prioritise the suspect's arrest and conduct a thorough investigation into all possible crimes, including deprivation of liberty and sexual violence. Idris also called for comprehensive, long-term medical and psychological support for the victim, emphasising that the state must ensure such extreme violence is not repeated.

Habiburokhman: Maximum Sentence for Taufik Hidayat Could Provide Deterrent Effect

The chairman of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III, Habiburokhman, has praised the swift arrest of Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in a kidnapping and torture case in Bandung. He urged law enforcement to apply the heaviest possible layered charges to ensure justice for the victim and create a strong deterrent. The commission has pledged to oversee the legal process until its conclusion in court.

Why the US Dollar Is Baring Its Fangs Again

The US dollar has surged to a 13-month high against major currencies, driven by renewed market expectations of Federal Reserve interest rate hikes. Strong US labour data and hawkish signals from Fed officials are fuelling bets that rates could rise as early as July, while a sell-off in global technology stocks is also boosting demand for the greenback as a safe-haven asset.

Students Urge East Lombok Prosecutor's Office to Fully Investigate MBG Point Trading Case

Students from the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PMII) have protested in East Lombok, demanding a thorough investigation into the alleged trading of locations for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The group claims dozens of service points were illicitly sold and plans to submit evidence to the prosecutor's office. The local prosecutor welcomed the report, while the demonstrators also raised other national and regional issues, including environmental damage from mining.

Minister of Public Works: Presidential Instruction on Regional Roads Boosts Economic Growth

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo stated that the Presidential Instruction on Regional Roads (IJD) serves as a lever for economic growth. The 2025 programme covers 1,151 km of regional roads across 37 provinces with a total investment of Rp5.41 trillion. The minister emphasised that the initiative reflects the government's commitment to inclusive and equitable infrastructure development reaching all corners of Indonesia.

Learning from COVID, Health Ministry Strategises to Reduce Imports of Medicines and Medical Devices

Indonesia's Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has confirmed a significant rise in national health spending, reaching Rp 640 trillion annually. The government is leveraging this growth to strengthen the domestic economy by focusing on three key sectors: health services, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. A transformation plan is underway to bolster health security and reduce reliance on imports, supported by investment collaborations with the Chamber of Commerce and the World Bank.

477 Students from Across Indonesia to Study at SMA Taruna Nusantara Campus in Nusantara Capital City

A total of 477 students from various regions will begin their education at the new SMA Taruna Nusantara campus in the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) for the 2026/2027 academic year. The school, part of the core government area ecosystem, represents a significant investment in high-quality educational infrastructure within the new capital. Officials stated the institution aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to develop excellent schools that foster strong character and patriotism among the nation's future leaders.

KPK Summons 13 Witnesses in Jakarta and Bali for Immigration Case Involving Silmy Karim

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned 13 witnesses across Jakarta and Bali as part of an investigation into alleged extortion related to foreign nationals' stay permits. The case implicates former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections, Silmy Karim, and seven other officials. The suspects are accused of illicitly obtaining Rp145.5 billion from the scheme between 2022 and 2026.

Prabowo's Personal Secretary Meets Jokowi, Delivers Wedding Invitation

President Prabowo Subianto's personal secretary, Rizky Irmansyah, visited former President Joko Widodo at his residence in Solo. The meeting, described as a friendly visit, was also used to personally deliver a wedding invitation. The brief encounter highlights ongoing personal ties between the current and former Indonesian leaders.

PLN IP uses community-grown sorghum biomass at Pelabuhan Ratu coal-fired plant

PT PLN Indonesia Power has begun using sorghum biomass produced by local communities as a co-firing fuel at its Pelabuhan Ratu coal-fired power plant in West Java. The initiative integrates the energy and agricultural sectors, aiming to bolster energy security while creating economic opportunities for residents. The company views the programme as a replicable model for advancing clean energy transition and circular economy goals across its operations.

OJK Issues Regulation for Financial Influencers

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a new regulation governing financial influencers to ensure information is clear, accurate, and not misleading. The rule, POJK Number 6 of 2026, sets behavioural standards for non-industry parties who educate or influence the public on financial products. It aims to enhance consumer protection and requires licences for activities such as providing investment recommendations.

New Discovery: Rare Earth Elements in Sulawesi Found as Primary Minerals, Not Just By-Products

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XII has revealed a significant discovery of rare earth elements (REE) in Sulawesi, where they are found as primary minerals, unlike the by-product deposits in Bangka Belitung. This finding could substantially boost Indonesia's strategic mineral reserves. Meanwhile, state-owned tin miner PT Timah is preparing to break ground on a rare earth processing plant on 20 May 2026, following a direct order from President Prabowo Subianto to accelerate monetisation.

Prabowo Explains His Close Ties to Farmers and Fishermen

President Prabowo Subianto has addressed public curiosity about his close relationship with farmers and fishermen, attributing it to their historical role in supporting Indonesia's independence struggle. Speaking at a national event in Gorontalo, he recounted how these communities provided essential food and support to soldiers when the nascent republic lacked a budget or payroll system. He emphasised that the nation's military and police forces have always been sustained by the grassroots support of farmers and fishermen.

Same Destination, Different Paths

An academic reflects on how the Netherlands' and Belgium's efficient, transparent responses to transport disruptions mirror the challenges faced by postgraduate researchers. The piece argues that successful research, like reliable transit systems, depends not on the absence of problems but on the ability to adapt, find alternative routes, and receive timely guidance from supervisors.

Job seekers queue for regular training selection

A photograph captures job seekers queuing for a regular training selection process in Indonesia. The image highlights ongoing government or institutional efforts to provide skills development and employment support programmes for the workforce.

Queue of Candidates for Regular Job Training Selection

Prospective participants queued to register for the second wave of a regular job training programme at the East Jakarta Regional Job Training Centre (PPKD) in Pondok Kelapa. A total of 15 training programmes will be offered in July 2026 to candidates who pass internet-based written tests and interviews held on 24-25 June 2026. The selection process also accommodated participants with disabilities, with a sign language interpreter present to relay information.

Oracle Cuts 21,000 Jobs to Accelerate AI Development

Oracle has reduced its global workforce by 21,000 employees over the past year as part of a restructuring effort to redirect resources towards artificial intelligence infrastructure. The company acknowledged that AI adoption is driving further headcount reductions while it invests heavily in data centres to support AI services, including a major deal with OpenAI.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Holds Interfaith Prayer and Distributes Aid for Smooth Operations of Balikpapan Refinery

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga organised an interfaith prayer event and distributed IDR 127 million in aid to social institutions in Balikpapan to support the smooth operation of the Balikpapan Refinery. The initiative, part of the Pertamina Berkah programme, provided assistance to 250 orphans, underprivileged individuals, and people with disabilities. A total of IDR 1 billion was distributed simultaneously across eight regional and six refinery operational areas, benefiting around 4,000 recipients.

Indonesia Seeks to Strengthen National and ASEAN Vaccine Ecosystem for Pandemic Preparedness

The Indonesian government is spearheading a high-level forum to bolster self-sufficiency in pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and diagnostics both nationally and across Southeast Asia. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stressed the need to translate substantial health spending into domestic economic growth by reducing reliance on imports through downstream industrialisation. National Economic Council Chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan added that strengthening the health sector would yield tangible economic benefits for the public.

Prabowo's Personal Secretary Meets Jokowi in Solo

President Prabowo Subianto's personal secretary, Rizky Irmansyah, held a brief closed-door meeting with former President Joko Widodo at his residence in Solo. The visit, described as a social call, lasted approximately 23 minutes and involved the delivery of a gift. Rizky declined to disclose whether he was carrying a message from Prabowo, fuelling speculation about the nature of the discussion between the two leaders' camps.

Trump Insists Iran Will Allow IAEA Nuclear Inspectors

US President Donald Trump has insisted that Iran will permit International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors into the country, contradicting Tehran's denial of any new commitments. Trump stated the inspections would occur 'at the appropriate time' and claimed a historic peace deal had been reached to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

SRBI Draws Rp105 Trillion in Foreign Funds as BI Rate Hike Takes Effect

Bank Indonesia's strategy to attract foreign capital is showing results, with inflows into its Rupiah Securities (SRBI) reaching Rp103-105 trillion by June. The central bank raised interest rates to bolster the rupiah's attractiveness amid a global 'flight to quality' towards US dollar assets, driven by geopolitical tensions and rising global inflation.

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Remains Wealthiest in Cabinet with Rp 6.3 Trillion in Assets

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri has again been identified as the wealthiest member of the Red and White Cabinet, reporting total assets of Rp 6.3 trillion. The figure, disclosed in her 2025 wealth report to the anti-graft agency KPK, represents an increase of nearly Rp 1 trillion from the previous year. Her holdings are dominated by securities, alongside significant property and luxury vehicle collections.

Indonesia and Poland Strengthen Cooperation on Halal Product Assurance

Indonesia and Poland have agreed to enhance cooperation on halal product assurance through a recognition agreement between BPJPH and the Muslim Religious Union in Poland. The partnership aims to align halal standards, facilitate information exchange, and boost bilateral trade and investment in halal products, supporting Indonesia's ambition to become a global halal hub.

Residents complain about impact of Cakung Drain canal construction in Kelapa Gading

Residents of Pegangsaan Dua, Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta, have voiced frustration over the prolonged construction of the Cakung Drain canal, which has disrupted road access and water supply for over five months. The local neighbourhood head described the project as progressing so slowly it appears stalled, despite daily work activity. The community, which has long sought flood mitigation measures, is urging authorities to improve coordination and expedite completion to restore normalcy.

Ex-Boss's Strategy to Prevent Taufik Hidayat from Fleeing Again

A former employer played a crucial role in the surrender of Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in the abuse and confinement of his girlfriend. Through persistent negotiation and strategic planning, Dadang Ahyar Ismail convinced Hidayat to stop evading authorities. The suspect eventually surrendered at Dadang's residence in Bandung Regency and was taken into police custody.

Police Officer Suffers Broken Leg While Securing Protest at DPR

A police officer fractured his right kneecap while attempting to extinguish a burning tyre during a protest outside the Indonesian Parliament on Monday. The officer, AKBP Adri Desas Furyanto, is receiving intensive care at the Police Hospital in Kramat Jati.

Cimanggis Cibitung Tollways and DMS Laguna Sign MoU to Form Joint Venture for Rest Area Construction

PT Cimanggis Cibitung Tollways (CCT) and PT DMS Laguna have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a joint venture company for the development of a Type A rest area at KM 63 of the Cimanggis-Cibitung Toll Road. The project, located in Bekasi Regency with a total area of 12 hectares and an investment of Rp 300 billion, aims to enhance service standards and provide modern commercial facilities. Both companies emphasised the strategic collaboration's role in supporting regional economic growth and delivering long-term value for toll road users and stakeholders.

BRIN champions AI, digital tech to curb emissions from agriculture

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is advocating for the use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies to reduce agricultural emissions while boosting productivity. Innovations such as AI-based monitoring, remote sensing, and alternate wetting and drying irrigation are being promoted, though adoption faces challenges including limited farmer capacity and inconsistent international reporting standards. BRIN is using a Bali forum to call for cross-country collaboration between Asia and Africa to scale up these low-emission farming solutions.

MUI Demands Maximum Sentence for Bandung Abduction Perpetrator Taufik Hidayat

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called for the harshest possible punishment for Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the abduction and abuse of a woman in Bandung, to serve as a deterrent. MUI's women and family affairs head stressed that the crime violates legal, religious, and social norms. The council also urged young people to recognise and leave relationships showing early signs of coercive control.

Kupang City Government Launches 'Satu Data' Portal

The Kupang city administration has launched a digital 'Satu Data' portal to enhance public transparency and comply with Indonesia's Public Information Disclosure Law. The platform allows citizens to remotely access key government documents, including budgets and accountability reports, aiming to curb maladministration. While civil society groups have welcomed the move, the government faces the challenge of ensuring access for residents in remote areas with limited internet connectivity.

Ministry: Visa-Free Visits Could Boost Foreign Tourist Arrivals

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism asserts that the Visa-Free Visit policy is a crucial tool for enhancing the country's tourism competitiveness, potentially increasing foreign tourist arrivals by up to 32.4 percent. A study by the WTTC and Oxford Economics indicates that a previous broad visa-free policy in 2016 contributed to a 24 percent rise in demand and the creation of around 400,000 jobs. The ministry is calling for strengthened cross-ministerial synergy to formulate an optimal policy that balances national interests with improved global tourism competitiveness.

Perhutani KPH Kedu Utara Strengthens Coordination with Sindoro Via Sigedang Basecamp Management

State forestry company Perhutani's KPH Kedu Utara unit is enhancing coordination with the management of the Sindoro Via Sigedang basecamp in Wonosobo to improve safety and service quality on the hiking route. The initiative focuses on aligning standard operating procedures, mitigating forest fire risks, and enforcing stricter waste management. The collaboration aims to ensure climber safety while protecting the forest ecosystem and generating positive economic impact for local communities.

Minister Trenggono Reveals Progress on Fishermen's Village Construction

Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono has disclosed that 65 of the planned 100 pilot Fishermen's Villages have been built, with the remainder expected by August 2026. The initiative follows a successful trial in Biak and aims to establish 1,369 operational villages by the end of 2026 to boost welfare in remote coastal areas. The government is concurrently recruiting and training four-person management teams for each site.

Tiered Administrative Fees on Sharia-Labelled Loans

This article examines the practice of tiered administrative fees in sharia-labelled cooperative loans, questioning whether such charges align with Islamic principles or constitute disguised riba (usury). It explores the Islamic legal concept of qardh, relevant fatwas, and the notion of hidden riba, calling for greater scrutiny from sharia supervisory boards.

Prabowo Issues Warning: I Know Who's Paying for the Protests

President Prabowo Subianto has publicly warned that he is aware of the individuals funding recent demonstrations, claiming some protesters were paid Rp200,000 without understanding the cause. Speaking at a national farmers and fishermen event in Gorontalo, he urged national unity, comparing the country's current challenges to a football match where the team should be supported rather than mocked during difficult periods.

Central Java's Rice Production Reaches 6.69 Million Tonnes, Governor Says

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi announced the province's rice production has hit 6.69 million tonnes during a harvest event in Sukoharjo. He urged local leaders to map drought-prone areas and prepare mitigation measures, including piping and pump distribution, to safeguard food self-sufficiency targets ahead of a forecasted long dry season.

Minister Trenggono's Ambition to Modernise 1,582 Fishing Vessels

Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono has outlined plans to modernise Indonesia's fishing fleet and expand the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih programme. The initiative aims to deploy 1,582 modern vessels by 2028 and establish 1,369 fishing villages by the end of 2026 to boost welfare and economic growth in coastal communities. The programme also targets significant increases in fishery production and export value.

Digital Media Platforms Demand Responsive, Humanist Style from Government Spokespersons

Government spokespersons are being urged to adapt to the complex dynamics of digital media and changing public information consumption habits. A recent technical guidance event in Bandung stressed the need for consistent, accurate messaging and the ability to simplify complex information for shorter public attention spans. Experts highlighted that the digital algorithm era requires a new strategic approach to public communication to maintain trust.