Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

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Two Women Held Captive in Hotel and Sold to Clients, Pimp Arrested in Kendari

Police in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, have rescued two women allegedly held captive for four days in a hotel and trafficked for sexual exploitation. A 26-year-old man suspected of acting as their pimp has been arrested following a tip-off from the public. Authorities are continuing to investigate the case for potential additional victims or accomplices.

Timeline Revealed: Woman Held Captive for 3 Years Until Taufik Hidayat's Arrest

A woman identified as YTR was subjected to brutal abuse and held captive by her boyfriend, Taufik Hidayat, for three years in a rented house in Bandung Regency. The case came to light after the victim was found severely injured in hospital, prompting a police manhunt that ended with Hidayat's arrest in Majalaya. The suspect is now detained in a special cell under 24-hour CCTV surveillance.

Equalising banking access could boost MSME financing

Indonesia's MSME association has called for equal access to bank financing across all regions, arguing that inconsistent requirements between branches hinder small businesses. The association also urged the government to tighten oversight of the KUR subsidised loan programme, as some banks still demand collateral despite regulations waiving it. A banking association survey found 88 per cent of informal MSMEs prefer using personal funds over bank credit.

Despite Wave of Layoffs, 83% of Indonesian Workers Who Asked for a Pay Rise Got One

A new survey reveals that 83% of Indonesian workers who requested a salary increase in 2026 were successful, despite ongoing layoffs and an economic slowdown. Employers are reportedly opting to grant pay rises to retain existing staff, as the cost of recruitment, training, and lost productivity during transitions often outweighs the expense of a salary adjustment. The findings come from Jobstreet by SEEK's Salary Pulse 2026 report, which surveyed over 1,000 workers across Asia.

Rupiah Weakness Drives Up Import Costs for Electric Truck and Bus Raw Materials

The depreciation of the Indonesian rupiah is increasing production costs for electric vehicle manufacturers reliant on imported components. PT Mobil Anak Bangsa Indonesia reports that 50-60% of EV components are imported, leading to a 20% rise in costs and reduced purchasing power. Despite growing demand from the mining and logistics sectors, producers face difficulties raising prices in the current economic climate.

Antam Gold Price Falls to Rp2.655 Million on 24 June 2026

The price of Antam gold dropped by Rp18,000 to Rp2.655 million per gram on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, while the buyback price fell to Rp2.372 million. The decline reflects ongoing fluctuations in the precious metals market, influenced by global dynamics and the rupiah exchange rate.

US affirms Lebanon affairs to be discussed directly with Beirut

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that Washington will engage directly with the Lebanese government on matters concerning Lebanon, treating it as a sovereign nation. He confirmed that discussions regarding Iran's support for Hizbullah will be handled separately in talks with Tehran. The remarks come as US-facilitated negotiations between Lebanon and Israel are underway in Washington.

Political Observer Ujang Komarudin Appointed as INKA Commissioner

State-owned train manufacturer PT INKA has appointed political analyst and former presidential spokesperson Ujang Komarudin as an independent commissioner. The appointment was approved during an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders. Komarudin, an academic and founder of Indonesia Political Review, joins the board alongside other newly announced directors and commissioners.

Apindo Chief Responds to Factory Relocation to Vietnam Issue, Here Are Her Proposals

The head of Indonesia's employers' association, Apindo, has called for verification of reports that automotive component manufacturing may shift to Vietnam. Shinta Kamdani warned that regional competitors like Vietnam are transforming their industrial ecosystems more aggressively, outpacing Indonesia's manufacturing growth. She urged the government to strengthen early warning mechanisms and investor aftercare to prevent further relocation decisions.

MP says arrest of woman's captor proves police seriousness

House of Representatives member Rajiv stated that the arrest of a suspect in the abduction and abuse of a woman in Bandung Regency demonstrates law enforcement's commitment to upholding justice. He urged a thorough investigation and called for the perpetrator to receive a proportionate punishment to deter future violence. The MP also pledged to oversee the legal process and ensure the victim receives comprehensive medical, psychological, and social support.

Creative Economy Minister: Film festivals can drive regional economies

Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya stated that regional film festivals can stimulate local economic value and strengthen the national film ecosystem. The potential was highlighted by the Pacitan Horror Film Festival, which attracted 285 films in its first year and aims to expand its scope with government collaboration.

Landlady's Testimony: How Taufik Hidayat Concealed the Abuse and False Imprisonment of His Girlfriend for Three Years

A landlady in Bandung has revealed how a man managed to hide the severe abuse of his girlfriend inside a rented room for nearly three years. The perpetrator, Taufik Hidayat, kept the door constantly locked and claimed the victim was visually impaired to explain her absence. The case came to light after the victim was finally taken to hospital in a severely neglected condition.

Gold Price Update 24 June 2026: Antam Buyback Plunges

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, with the 1-gram variant dropping by Rp18,000. The buyback price experienced a steeper decline of Rp36,000, settling at Rp2,372,000 per gram. The article also provides a complete price list for various denominations and practical tips for purchasing and storing gold securely.

Bandung Woman Torture Case: Qur'an and Hadith Affirm the Nobility of Women in Islam

The arrest of a suspect in the brutal torture of a woman in Bandung has prompted reflection on Islamic teachings regarding the status of women. Islam explicitly honours women, with the Prophet Muhammad emphasising their virtue and the elevated position of mothers. The case starkly contrasts these religious principles with the violence inflicted upon the victim.

Biak Cultural Festival 2026 to Serve as Pacific Cultural Diplomacy Platform

The Biak Numfor Regency in Papua plans to transform its 2026 Cultural Festival into a vehicle for cultural diplomacy, strengthening ties with Pacific nations through shared heritage. Scheduled for 17โ€“21 October to coincide with National Culture Day, the event aims to attract participants from across Indonesia and the Pacific. Local officials hope the festival will boost creative economy, tourism, and education cooperation while positioning Biak as a cultural hub in eastern Indonesia.

Buying Dollars Above US$10,000 Still Permitted, BI Reveals Conditions

Bank Indonesia clarifies that foreign exchange transactions exceeding US$10,000 remain allowed, provided the buyer presents clear underlying documentation. The policy, effective 1 July 2026, aims to stabilise the rupiah rather than restrict dollar purchases. This marks the third threshold reduction within a year, reflecting BI's efforts to manage domestic forex market dynamics.

Vladimir Putin, ASEAN and Indonesia: A World Leader's Vision

As Russia and ASEAN mark 35 years of partnership, President Vladimir Putin is signalling Moscow's intent to remain a strategic player in the Asia-Pacific. The article argues that Putin's focus on Southeast Asia reflects long-term planning for global power balance, trade, and energy security. Indonesia's strategic maritime position and its free and active foreign policy are highlighted as crucial to regional stability and dialogue.

IHSG Opens Higher on Positive Market Response to Indonesia's Emerging Market Status Retention

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened stronger on Wednesday, buoyed by investor relief after MSCI decided to retain Indonesia's equity market classification as an Emerging Market. Market analyst Maximilianus Nico noted that while the decision is positive, foreign inflows remain hampered by trust issues. Meanwhile, European and US markets closed lower overnight amid mixed regional Asian trading.

Riau Police 'JALUR' Expedition Distributes Social Aid in Remote Village Ahead of Bhayangkara Day

The Riau Regional Police conducted a humanitarian expedition to the isolated village of Dua Sepakat in Kampar Regency, delivering social assistance and free healthcare. The initiative, part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations, aims to ensure police services reach the most remote communities. Residents warmly welcomed the programme, which also seeks to strengthen ties between the police and the public.

Antam gold price drops Rp18,000 to Rp2.655 million per gram on Wednesday

The price of Antam gold bullion fell by Rp18,000 to Rp2.655 million per gram on Wednesday morning, with the buyback price also declining to Rp2.372 million per gram. The price adjustment reflects ongoing fluctuations in the precious metals market. Transactions remain subject to tax deductions under prevailing Indonesian tax regulations.

IHSG Today 24 June 2026: Opens Higher at 6,112

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened slightly higher on 24 June 2026, gaining 12 points to reach 6,112. The modest rise is attributed to market anticipation surrounding the MSCI index rebalancing announcement, which historically influences foreign capital flows. This external sentiment provides a psychological boost for more dynamic trading throughout the day.

Turkish Ambassador: Islamic World Must Be Represented on UN Security Council

Turkey's ambassador to Indonesia has called for comprehensive UN reform, arguing the Security Council no longer reflects current global realities. He highlighted the lack of permanent representation for large nations like Indonesia and India, as well as the nearly two billion Muslims worldwide. The ambassador also stressed that Turkey seeks greater inclusivity for the Global South and closer Muslim cooperation through institutions like the OIC, not a revival of Ottoman-era dominance.

Ahead of 80th Bhayangkara Day, National Police Chief Distributes 6,000 Aid Packages and Provides Free Health Services to Thousands

In the lead-up to the 80th Bhayangkara Day, the Indonesian National Police (Polri) held a major health and social service event in Jakarta, distributing 6,000 social aid packages. National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo highlighted that over 664,000 health services have been provided nationwide since early June, including specialist surgeries and stunting checks. A new priority health card for workers was also launched to grant access to all Polri hospitals across Indonesia.

Yati Unworried About GERD Treatment Thanks to JKN Programme Guarantee

Yati Hapsari, a 67-year-old participant in Indonesia's National Health Insurance (JKN) programme, expresses confidence in her ongoing treatment for GERD. Her son, Budi, highlights the programme's consistent, high-quality care across multiple cities and its crucial role in providing rapid access during life-threatening emergencies. He hopes the JKN programme continues to expand its benefits to more people, especially those with financial limitations.

Yesterday's political highlights: KRI Bima Suci in Japan to BGN urged not to hold dual roles in MBG

A roundup of key political events on 23 June includes the KRI Bima Suci's diplomatic visit to Japan, the approval of a bill for an International Financial Centre, President Prabowo's symbolic inauguration of 1,151 km of regional roads, and a House member's call for the National Nutrition Agency to avoid overlapping roles in the free meals programme.

House of Representatives Supports Indonesia's Plan to Establish a Mineral Exchange

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) Commission XII has endorsed the government's plan to launch a national mineral and strategic commodity exchange by 1 January 2027. The initiative aims to curb transfer pricing and under-invoicing in mineral trade while strengthening the country's position in global commodity markets. The exchange is expected to create a more transparent trading mechanism aligned with market conditions.

Red chilli pepper reaches Rp71,600 per kg, chicken eggs at Rp29,800 per kg on Wednesday morning

The National Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS), managed by Bank Indonesia, reported that red chilli pepper prices hit Rp71,600 per kilogram on Wednesday morning. Other staple food prices were also recorded, including chicken eggs at Rp29,800 per kg and various grades of rice ranging from Rp14,500 to Rp17,600 per kg. The data provides a snapshot of retail-level food commodity prices across Indonesia.

Acting Regent of Cilacap Reveals 100 Fictitious Nutrition Service Points, Some Located in Cemeteries

Acting Regent of Cilacap, Ammy Amalia Fatma Surya, has disclosed that approximately 100 out of over 300 registered Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) in the district are suspected to be fictitious. Field inspections found no buildings or activity at these sites, with some points registered in forests, rice fields, and even cemeteries. The findings have prompted a temporary halt to new SPPG openings in Cilacap and raised concerns over the alleged trading of service point registrations.

Director Buys 2 Million Shares of This Issuer Ahead of AGM

A director of PT Repower Asia Indonesia Tbk (REAL) has purchased 2 million shares just before the company's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, signalling strong internal confidence. The move comes as the property developer eyes expansion, digital transformation, and a potential dividend payout, amid improving sector conditions.

Observer: Transport discounts positively impact national tourism

A public policy analyst has stated that government transport fare incentives during school holidays and the Christmas-New Year period will boost public purchasing power and benefit national tourism. The stimulus package, part of a larger Rp26.34 trillion economic programme, includes discounts on trains, ships, and domestic flights. Local governments and MSMEs are expected to gain from increased visitor spending.

Yesterday's Legal Roundup: Suspect in Bandung Captivity Case Arrested, Nadiem Files Duplik

Indonesian legal developments on 23 June included the arrest of a man suspected of holding a woman captive for three years in Bandung. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) indicated it may expand its customs graft probe to include officials from the food and drug agency and the trade ministry. Meanwhile, former education minister Nadiem Makarim told a corruption court he may have made mistakes but insisted there was no 'seed of corruption' within him.

Study records Raja Ampat's walking shark density as highest in the world

A 14-month scientific study has found the endemic Raja Ampat walking shark (Hemiscyllium freycineti) has the highest population density recorded globally, with 2,462 individuals per square kilometre. The research highlights the critical role of coral reefs as nursery habitats and warns that coastal development, tourism, and climate change pose significant threats. Findings will inform conservation strategies for the species within the Raja Ampat marine protected area.

Wadah Silaturahmi Ummat Foundation Launches Maqdisy Talent Hunt 1448 H to Nurture Future Generations

The Wadah Silaturahmi Ummat Foundation has launched the Maqdisy Talent Hunt (MTH) 1448 H programme in Tangerang Selatan, coinciding with the Islamic New Year. The initiative aims to identify and nurture talents among children and adolescents aged 5 to 19, with a focus on building a generation committed to the liberation of Baitul Maqdis. Founder Annisa Theresia emphasised that the programme goes beyond talent competition, seeking to cultivate orators, narrators, and creators grounded in Qur'anic and prophetic teachings.

Dramatic Story to Be Told: 'Sekolah Rakyat' Film Set for Release

The Indonesian government and the Penjaga Harapan platform are collaborating on a short film to promote the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School) programme. The 25-minute dramatic film aims to highlight the transformative journey of underprivileged children without exploiting their suffering. The Ministry of Social Affairs has endorsed the project as a creative tool to communicate the state's role in providing educational access and hope to families in extreme poverty.

Indonesian Army Builds Clean Water Points and Power Sources for Papua Residents

The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) is deploying drilling equipment and generators to Wamena, Papua Pegunungan, to establish clean water sources and electricity under the 'TNI Manunggal Air dan Papua Terang' programme. Army Chief of Staff General Maruli Simanjuntak stated the initiative aims to ensure the state's presence is felt by providing hope, health, and a better future. The effort includes plans to deliver televisions, satellite dishes, and portable speakers to support education, social, and religious activities once power is installed.

UN Begins Rescue Operation in Strait of Hormuz, Evacuating 11,000 Lives

The International Maritime Organisation has launched a large-scale evacuation of over 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz following a ceasefire between the US and Iran. The operation, conducted with regional and international cooperation, aims to clear a backlog of hundreds of commercial vessels after months of blockade. Diplomatic tensions persist, however, as Washington rejects Tehran's suggestion of imposing tolls on the strategic waterway.

From Admiring Paskibraka on TV, Made Dwi Now Prepares for the Palace

I Made Dwi Sathya Kurniawan, a teenager from Badung, Bali, has been selected as a national Paskibraka member for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony at the State Palace. His journey from watching the flag-raising troop on television to passing rigorous local and national selections was fuelled by family support and Balinese values of self-reflection. He now aims to secure a prestigious position in the ceremony while aspiring to a future career in public administration.

Smallholder Farmers Squeezed by Domino Effect of Feed Imports and Liquidity Crisis

Indonesian smallholder poultry farmers are suffering prolonged losses as live bird prices collapse far below soaring production costs. The situation is blamed on a structural crisis involving concentrated feed imports and a cash-before-delivery system that triggers panic selling. The Independent People's Livestock Association is urging the government to intervene with corrective policies rather than temporary aid.

Short Film "Sekolah Rakyat" to Highlight Education's Role in Poverty Alleviation

The Ministry of Social Affairs is collaborating with the Penjaga Harapan platform to produce a short film titled "Sekolah Rakyat". The 25-minute film aims to dramatise the transformative journey of a child from an extremely poor family gaining access to education through the government's residential school programme. It is intended as a creative tool to build public empathy and understanding of how the initiative serves as a pathway out of poverty.

Rupiah Weakens to Rp 17,942 Following MSCI Review and Spotlight on RI Manufacturing Competitiveness

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to Rp 17,942 per US dollar in early Wednesday trading, pressured by market caution ahead of MSCI's market classification review and concerns over the country's manufacturing competitiveness. MSCI ultimately retained Indonesia's emerging market status but had previously flagged issues with information flow transparency. Meanwhile, a series of production stoppages and potential layoffs at several manufacturers, partly driven by geopolitical tensions, have raised alarms about the sector's health.

Two Women in Kendari Held Captive and Sold to Men, Suspect Arrested

Police in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, have arrested a 26-year-old man suspected of holding two women captive in a hotel and trafficking them for sexual exploitation. The victims, aged 30 and 16, were reportedly confined for four days and threatened if they did not comply. The case is being treated as a criminal act of human trafficking.

Gerindra and PDIP United in Reprimanding Solo Mayor Over Jokowi Birthday Billboards

The Solo branches of Indonesia's Gerindra and PDIP parties have jointly criticised the city government for erecting billboards celebrating former President Joko Widodo's 65th birthday. They questioned why similar honours were not extended to current President Prabowo Subianto and raised concerns about the potential misuse of public funds. The mayor, a Gerindra cadre himself, acknowledged the criticism and accepted blame for the controversy.

IDX Tightly Monitors MSJA Shares for Unusual Market Activity

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has placed PT Multi Spunindo Jaya Tbk (MSJA) under close surveillance due to unusual market activity (UMA) following abnormal price movements. The exchange urges investors to carefully review the company's disclosures and corporate actions before making investment decisions.

Gerindra Denies Special Meeting to Monitor Vice President Gibran

The Gerindra Party faction in Indonesia's House of Representatives has refuted social media claims of a special meeting led by Chairman Budi Djiwandono to monitor Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. A senior party official clarified that faction meetings focused instead on monitoring economic conditions and government programme implementation in members' constituencies.

Prudential Syariah Wins Award for 'Festival 1.000 Berkah Ramadan 2026' Campaign

Prudential Syariah has been recognised at the Marketeers OMNI Brands of the Year 2026 for its integrated 'Festival 1.000 Berkah Ramadan 2026' campaign. The award highlights the insurer's successful omnichannel strategy, which combined spiritual, economic, and social empowerment activities at the Al Azhar Grand Mosque. The company also reinforced its market leadership, citing its top position in brand preference and customer recommendations in Indonesia's sharia life insurance sector.

IHSG Opens Higher After MSCI Review, Despite Wall Street and Asian Market Slump

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Wednesday, rebounding from a test of the 6,000 support level, despite significant overnight losses on Wall Street and across Asian bourses. The global sell-off was driven by heavy profit-taking in technology and semiconductor stocks, with South Korea's Kospi index plunging 10 per cent. Analysts caution that while a short-term technical rebound is underway, the IHSG remains vulnerable to further correction.

JCI Surges Over 1% Following MSCI Announcement

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rallied more than 1% in early trading after MSCI confirmed Indonesia's retention in the Emerging Market category. The global index provider acknowledged recent transparency reforms by Indonesian financial authorities but warned of a potential reclassification to Frontier Market status if insufficient progress is observed by November 2026.

US Dollar Breaches Rp17,900 Mark Amid Global Strength

The Indonesian rupiah has weakened past the Rp17,900 level against the US dollar, continuing its slide as the greenback hits a 13-month high. The pressure stems from market expectations of further interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve under its new chair, Kevin Warsh. Bank Indonesia has already raised its benchmark rate by 100 basis points in the past month to maintain the attractiveness of rupiah assets for foreign investors.

Prabowo Claims His Decade-Old Economic Analysis Remains Unchallenged by Professors

President Prabowo Subianto asserted that his economic analysis, published over a decade ago, remains unchallenged by academic economists. He highlighted the persistent issue of national wealth outflow, citing United Nations data on underinvoicing practices that have cost Indonesia up to USD 908 billion over 34 years. Prabowo made the remarks during the closing of a Nahdlatul Ulama conference in Bangkalan, Madura.

PDIP Speaks Out on BEM UBK Students Allegedly Receiving Money After Meeting Gibran

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has responded to allegations that student executive board members from Bung Karno University received money after meeting Vice President Gibran Rakabuming during a protest. A senior PDIP official suggested the orchestration likely came from higher up, while the university's students have demanded severe sanctions for those allegedly involved. The State Palace has responded cautiously, stating it will first verify the incident.