Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,678 articles

DJP Seizes 230 Assets from Tax Delinquents in East Java Worth IDR 24.9 Billion

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has seized 230 assets valued at IDR 24.9 billion from 158 tax delinquents across East Java during a coordinated enforcement week. The action, targeting a total outstanding tax debt of IDR 621.2 billion, was taken after prior warnings and legal procedures were exhausted. Officials emphasised the seizures are not final, as taxpayers can still settle their debts to halt further enforcement.

Venice Looks To Increase Daily Tourist Tax: Could Bali Benefit From Tourism Tax Reform?

Venice plans to raise its day-tripper entry fee to as much as €50, prompting comparisons with Bali's own tourism tax. While Venice's levy has generated significant revenue, Bali faces low compliance with its IDR 150,000 foreign tourist levy, with only around 35% of visitors paying. The situation highlights the challenges Indonesian authorities face in enforcing tourism taxes and the potential need for policy reform to boost revenue and manage mass tourism.

Ombudsman issues 203 recommendations to improve public services

Indonesia's Ombudsman has submitted 203 studies and recommendations to ministries, agencies, and local public service providers as part of a systemic push to prevent maladministration. The reports cover strategic areas including pandemic border control, housing mortgage oversight, hajj services, and human trafficking prevention. Officials acknowledged the institution's preventive role but noted that budget constraints remain a challenge to its supervisory effectiveness.

Export Governance Strengthened, Business Sector Optimistic About National Economic Competitiveness

Indonesia's business community, represented by Apindo, has welcomed the establishment of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) as a positive step towards strengthening export governance. The new body's commitment to recruiting top market professionals is seen as a strong signal of professionalism and responsiveness to global commodity volatility. DSI is expected to curb practices like under-invoicing through data integration without adding bureaucratic layers, with a transitional policy until 2027 providing market adaptation time.

Positive News For Bali’s Waste Management Issues: Here’s What Tourists Need To Know

Kutuh Village in Bali has successfully implemented a zero-waste system, processing up to 20 tons of waste daily through its TPS3R facility and community composting programmes. The initiative, which began in 2021, relies on source-based waste management and economic incentives like a plastic exchange programme, eliminating the need to send rubbish to the island's overburdened landfills. This local success offers a hopeful model as the province prepares to close its largest dump and awaits the construction of a major waste-to-energy plant.

Pasar Saham Indonesia Kembali Tergoncang, MSCI Buka Risiko Downgrade di November 2026

Indeks Harga Saham Gabungan (IHSG) kembali tertekan setelah MSCI mengumumkan perpanjangan peninjauan status pasar Indonesia yang dapat berujung pada downgrade ke status frontier pada November 2026. Meskipun MSCI mengakui adanya reformasi transparansi dari regulator, pelaku pasar menyampaikan kekhawatiran mendalam terkait kelayakan investasi, yang memicu aksi jual asing dengan net sell mencapai Rp1,17 triliun dalam sehari. Analis menilai bobot Indonesia yang kini menyusut menjadi 0,4% di MSCI membuat tekanan jual kali ini tidak akan semasif periode sebelumnya, namun risiko downgrade tetap menjadi sentimen negatif utama.

Bali Starts Transition To Cashless Culture In Top Tourism Destinations

Penglipuran Village in Bali is leading a shift towards a cashless economy, with 40% of tourist transactions already digital and plans to expand this across the entire community's financial governance. The initiative, supported by Bank Indonesia, aims to modernise economic management and boost financial inclusion for small tourism businesses. The village will showcase its blend of tradition and digital innovation at its annual festival in July 2026.

Tapping the Commercial Potential of Fortified Rice: Retail and Industry Urged to Expand Market

Indonesia's fortified rice market is transitioning from a public health initiative to a promising commercial sector, with retailers and producers ready to scale up distribution. However, industry leaders warn that a lack of clear pricing references and a 20-30% price premium over regular rice are causing market fragmentation. Key strategies to stabilise the market include regulatory clarity, supply chain efficiency, and sustained consumer education.

Burdened by Bulog Tax, NTB Corn Farmers Appeal to Governor Iqbal

Corn farmers in West Nusa Tenggara have protested to Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal over a 1.5% income tax deduction on government purchase prices imposed by the state logistics agency Bulog. The farmers claim the levy, which has cost them billions of rupiah, has severely impacted their livelihoods. Governor Iqbal confirmed the tax has been frozen and pledged to coordinate the restitution of funds already collected.

Tifa's Trial in Jokowi Diploma Case to Begin July 2 at East Jakarta Court

The East Jakarta District Court will commence the first hearing for defendant Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Dr Tifa, on 2 July 2026 over allegations of spreading false claims about President Joko Widodo's diploma. Meanwhile, co-defendant Roy Suryo's trial date remains pending as he has filed a pre-trial motion at the South Jakarta District Court. Both were previously arrested and handed over to prosecutors but were not detained, instead being required to report weekly.

Like Unrequited Love, US Claims Once Again Denied by Iran

The Trump administration's assertions of major Iranian concessions in ongoing nuclear and economic negotiations are being consistently refuted by Tehran, creating global uncertainty. Disputed points include unlimited nuclear inspections, mandated spending of unfrozen assets on US goods, and permanent free passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran maintains that cooperation with the IAEA will follow existing procedures and that it retains full sovereignty over its financial assets.

Bali Hosts International Forum on the Future of Low-Emission Agriculture

Bali is hosting an international forum bringing together representatives from Asia and Africa to exchange knowledge on low-emission technologies for rice and livestock systems. The event aims to bridge the gap between global emission reduction commitments and practical implementation at the farm level, addressing challenges such as limited technology access and climate funding. Participants will discuss innovations in water management, fertiliser efficiency, and digital monitoring, with a field visit to Bali's UNESCO-recognised subak irrigation system.

Seized assets from Ebenezer et al. corruption case exhibited, ready for auction at Hakordia

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has exhibited assets seized from former Deputy Manpower Minister Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan and other convicts in a workplace safety certification bribery case. The items, including luxury cars and motorcycles, are set to be auctioned during the World Anti-Corruption Day (Hakordia) events. The auction will proceed as the case has reached a final and binding legal verdict.

Egypt Responds to Indonesia's Single-Door Palm Oil Export Policy via DSI

Egypt has expressed respect for Indonesia's new single-door palm oil export policy through Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), while emphasising the need to maintain supply stability. The Egyptian Ambassador highlighted that palm oil trade between the two nations is valued at US$1.2 billion annually. Both countries are also deepening broader strategic ties following an upgraded partnership agreement in April 2025.

Prof Rycko Amelza: BPS Data Shows Indonesia Imported Corn Since 1973, Stopped in 2026, Polri Made History

Retired Police Commissioner General Rycko Amelza claims Indonesia has stopped importing corn for the first time in 53 years and has begun exporting, attributing this historic shift to the National Police's (Polri) role in accelerating production under President Prabowo's food self-sufficiency policy. He called for a critical review of past agricultural policies and highlighted ongoing challenges for farmers, including access to capital, superior seeds, affordable fertiliser, and fair market access. The discussion took place at a police studies centre in Jakarta.

Holding 2026 National Work Meeting in Palembang, AMPHURI Highlights E-Wallet Umrah Discourse

The Indonesian Muslim Hajj and Umrah Organisers Association (AMPHURI) opened its 2026 National Work Meeting in Palembang, focusing on strategic planning and regulatory changes under the new Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Key discussions centred on the controversial e-Wallet Umrah proposal and the impact of Law No. 14/2025, which the association fears may centralise control and marginalise licensed businesses. The forum also addressed rampant non-procedural umrah practices and called for stricter government enforcement.

Indonesia to Optimise All Platforms to Advocate for Middle East Peace

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has pledged to utilise all available international platforms, including BRICS, to push for peace in the Middle East. Jakarta is closely monitoring negotiations between the US and Iran, as well as between Israel and Lebanon, while respecting the conflicting parties' choice of mediators. The ministry emphasised that its diplomatic efforts are intended to complement ongoing peace initiatives.

BPJS Membership Becomes Requirement for Marketplace Sellers to Receive Incentives

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises has confirmed that BPJS Health and Employment membership is a prerequisite for marketplace traders to access government incentives, including up to 50% service fee reductions. The ministry clarified that this requirement reinforces existing social security laws rather than introducing a new mandate. Flexible implementation mechanisms are being developed to accommodate micro and small businesses.

US Senate Resolution Could Push Washington to Soften Stance on Iran

An international relations expert argues that a US Senate resolution urging restraint against Iran may compel Washington to adopt a more moderate approach. The assessment points to depleted US energy reserves, lack of NATO support, and a strengthening Iran-Russia-China coalition as factors weakening America's position. This shift could open greater diplomatic space between the two nations, even as the US might seek to pressure Iran on nuclear issues through international law.

US-Iran MoU: Egyptian Ambassador Stresses Importance of Gulf Security

Egypt's Ambassador to Indonesia has welcomed the US-Iran memorandum and underscored the critical need for stability in the Gulf region. He affirmed Egypt's unwavering political and military support for its GCC partners and detailed Cairo's active backchannel diplomatic role since the conflict began. Egypt is committed to maintaining its diplomatic engagement throughout the upcoming 60-day negotiation phase.

Jakarta to build 11 public housing towers in 2027 to meet demand

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has approved funding for 11 new large-scale public apartment towers (rusun) to be built next year, addressing the capital's growing housing needs amid scarce land availability. The initiative aims to provide transparent access for residents to purchase or rent units, as rising property prices make landed houses increasingly unaffordable. The move is part of a broader strategy to promote vertical housing as a practical solution for urban dwellers.

Antisocial Personality Disorder Can Trigger Repeated Violence Without Remorse

A psychologist explains that Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is a serious mental condition, not merely a bad temper, which can lead individuals to commit repeated acts of cruelty without guilt. The disorder is characterised by a lack of empathy, manipulative behaviour, and viewing others as objects for personal gratification. The explanation comes amid public attention on a case in Bandung where a woman was held captive and severely abused by her partner for three years.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut's Detention Suspended for Digestive Illness Treatment at Police Hospital

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has temporarily suspended the detention of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas so he can receive inpatient care for a digestive tract ailment at the Kramat Jati Police Hospital. The suspension is based on a medical examination and is intended to uphold the suspect's right to health, while investigators continue to monitor him. Yaqut is one of four suspects in a hajj quota corruption case that allegedly caused state losses of Rp 622 billion.

Woman's Confinement in Bandung Reflects Deeply Rooted Patriarchal Ideology

A sociologist argues that the recent case of a woman confined and abused for three years in Bandung is rooted in patriarchal ideology, not merely the perpetrator's psychology. The phenomenon, described as 'trauma bonding', highlights how cultural and religious norms perpetuate gender inequality despite existing laws. Experts urge the state to intervene in socio-cultural values, not just strengthen law enforcement, to combat violence against women.

Four road sections in North Sumatra inaugurated by President Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated four regional road packages in North Sumatra, totalling 7.1 kilometres, as part of a nationwide infrastructure push. The projects, funded under Presidential Instruction No. 11 of 2025, aim to accelerate connectivity to support food and energy self-sufficiency. Governor Bobby Nasution highlighted that the improved roads will significantly ease the transport of agricultural produce and reduce logistics costs for local communities.

Central Java BPBD distributes 654,000 litres of water to tackle drought

The Central Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has distributed 654,000 litres of clean water as the dry season intensifies, with Klaten Regency receiving the largest share. Local governments have stockpiled a total of 123 million litres in anticipation, while eight regions have declared drought emergency alert status. Authorities are urging residents to conserve water and report shortages through local administrative channels.

Ngurah Rai Airport Opens Denpasar-Canberra Flight Route

Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport has launched a new direct flight route to Canberra, operated by Virgin Australia, further strengthening air connectivity between Indonesia and its top tourism market. The service, operating three times weekly, marks the 12th direct route between Australia and Bali and is expected to boost tourism and the local economy.

BKPM Reveals Major Potential for Downstreaming in Non-Mining Sectors

Indonesia's Investment Ministry highlights significant downstreaming opportunities beyond mining, focusing on agriculture, fisheries, and renewable energy. Deputy Minister Todotua Pasaribu outlined plans to add value to commodities like palm oil for biofuels and cassava for ethanol, aiming to boost economic growth and job creation. The government is also preparing to support the fisheries sector with new shipyards and fishing vessels.

Iran Resolution Shows US Democracy Still Functioning, Says UI Professor

A University of Indonesia international relations professor argues the US Senate's approval of a resolution limiting President Trump's military authority against Iran proves American democratic checks and balances remain effective. The move is seen as preventing conflict escalation and opening diplomatic channels between Washington and Tehran. The professor noted the resolution could significantly constrain the president's unilateral military decision-making in the future.

West Java Prepares Scholarships for 80,000 Private School Students

The West Java provincial government is allocating scholarships worth Rp2.7 million per year for 80,000 private high school and vocational school students to prevent dropouts due to economic hardship. Governor Dedi Mulyadi stated this initiative means 90 per cent of education in the province is now effectively free. The programme also aims to fill empty classrooms in private schools that previously lost students to state institutions.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister urges regional heads to strengthen local identity

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on regional leaders to move beyond uniform development models and leverage local wisdom to build distinctive regional identities. He stressed that a strong local image requires a sustainable innovation ecosystem encompassing research, regulation, and funding, not just temporary promotions. The initiative aims to spur regional economic revival and support national growth targets.

Fatmawati Rusdi Opens IGS 2026 Business Forum, Showcases South Sulawesi Investment Potential to 28-Nation Delegation

South Sulawesi's Vice Governor Fatmawati Rusdi inaugurated the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series 2026 Business Forum in Makassar, presenting the province's strategic economic sectors to delegates from 28 countries. The event served as a business matching platform connecting local enterprises with ambassadors, investors, and international business figures to explore trade, investment, and creative economy partnerships. Makassar's Mayor also highlighted the city's role as a gateway to Eastern Indonesia, offering strategic projects and noting a 2025 investment realisation of Rp5.2 trillion.

High Waves Cause 2.6 km Traffic Queue at Gilimanuk Port

Severe weather and high waves in the Bali Strait have severely disrupted ferry operations, leading to a 2.6-kilometre traffic jam at Gilimanuk Port in Jembrana, Bali. Police have implemented traffic diversions through residential areas for smaller vehicles to manage the congestion, while authorities have adopted a 'Tiba Bongkar Berangkat' (TBB) system to speed up ship movements.

US Senate Resolution Seen as Curbing Trump’s Room for Manoeuvre in Iran Conflict

The US Senate’s passage of a resolution demanding President Trump either halt military action against Iran or seek Congressional approval is viewed as a positive check on White House foreign policy. An Indonesian analyst argues the move signals legislative intent to oversee negotiations and could significantly constrain the administration’s ability to fund large-scale military operations. The development underscores the role of Congress in scrutinising executive decisions, though domestic political dynamics remain a factor to watch.

Bukalapak Accelerates Expansion of Mitra, Gaming, Investment, and Retail After Business Transformation

PT Bukalapak.com Tbk (BUKA) is accelerating the development of four core business lines—Mitra Bukalapak, Gaming, Investment, and Retail—following its exit from physical goods sales. The strategic shift has yielded significant financial results, with 2025 revenue growing 46% to Rp6.5 trillion and Q1 2026 revenue up 63% year-on-year. The company also achieved a positive Adjusted EBITDA of Rp4 billion in the first quarter of 2026, marking a turnaround from a loss in the prior year.

Education Ministry Updates Number and Rules of Tests in 2026 Friendly MPLS

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has revised the testing components for the 2026 Friendly School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS). The updated assessments, expanded from two to three parts, will now evaluate new students' socio-emotional state, literacy, numeracy, and their talents and interests. Results will be centrally processed and shared with teachers, headmasters, and parents to better tailor learning and parenting support.

Body of Woman Found in Official Car at Juanda Airport Identified as Bangkalan Civil Servant

A deceased woman discovered inside a government vehicle at Juanda Airport has been identified as a 50-year-old official from the Bangkalan Regency Housing and Settlement Department. The victim, a secretary at the department, was last seen leaving for work on Thursday and was reported unreachable by her family on Saturday evening. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death.

Judicial Honour Council dishonourably discharges Judge SW proven to have accepted Rp2 billion bribe

The Judicial Honour Council (MKH) has imposed the severe sanction of dishonourable discharge on Judge SW, formerly of the South Jakarta District Court, after he was found to have accepted bribes totalling Rp2 billion. The funds, intended as payment for an auctioned property, were instead used by the judge for personal ventures, including building a CV and paying off his mortgage. The council rejected his defence, citing the gravity of the ethical violations and his failure to return the money.

UN Issues Stern Warning, World in Great Danger

The United Nations has issued a stark warning about the environmental and societal costs of artificial intelligence, urging major tech companies to be transparent about their energy and water consumption. Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted that AI could consume more energy than all but five countries by 2030 and use enough water to meet the basic needs of 1.3 billion people in sub-Saharan Africa. He also called for urgent action on methane emissions and a just transition away from fossil fuels ahead of the COP31 climate conference.

Government Launches Public Poll for 81st Independence Day Logo Selection

The Indonesian government has, for the first time, invited the public to directly vote for the official logo of the 81st Independence Day celebrations. Five finalist designs, curated from 124 submissions with the help of the Indonesian Graphic Designers Association, are open for polling from 24 to 28 June 2026. The initiative, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to make the national commemoration a shared celebration owned by all citizens.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Retains Gold Award at ARA 2026 for Second Consecutive Year

Indonesia's social security agency for workers, BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, has secured the top-tier Gold Award at the Australasian Reporting Awards (ARA) 2026 for the second year running. The award recognises the institution's 2024 Annual Integrated Report for meeting international standards in transparency, accountability, and sustainability. It was the only Indonesian state institution to participate and win at the prestigious Asia-Pacific event.

KPK Increasingly Confident About Hajj Quota Allocation Scheme After Third Examination of Hilman Latief

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has interrogated former Director General of Hajj and Umrah, Hilman Latief, for a third time, strengthening its belief that additional hajj quotas were improperly split 50-50 between regular and special pilgrims instead of the mandated 92-8 ratio. The investigation is part of a broader corruption case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and three other suspects, with state losses estimated at Rp 622 billion.

Semarang City Government Says People's School Progress Reaches 90 Percent

The Semarang city administration reports that construction of the 'Sekolah Rakyat' boarding school in Rowosari is 90 per cent complete, with an estimated finish date of 10 July 2026. The 6.5-hectare facility will accommodate 270 students from the lowest economic deciles across primary, junior, and senior high levels. Officials are addressing remaining finishing works and conducting outreach to reassure parents, particularly those of younger pupils, about the boarding arrangement.

Residents Complain About Sewage Pump at Taman Jangkar Ampenan

Residents in Ampenan, Mataram, have raised concerns over a new sewage pump installation at Taman Jangkar, fearing unpleasant odours. The Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency clarified that the facility is merely a transit pump designed to move wastewater, not a storage tank, and will be aesthetically integrated into the park. The project is part of a World Bank-funded communal wastewater treatment network worth approximately Rp 1.3 trillion.

Gontor's Centennial: GIHES 2026 to Offer Pesantren System as Solution to Global Education Crisis

Marking a century of Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor, the Global Islamic Holistic Education Summit (GIHES) will be held in Jakarta in September 2026 to address a worldwide crisis in youth mental preparedness. Organisers argue that the 24-hour holistic education model practised in Indonesian pesantren successfully cultivates character, leadership, and resilience, offering a proven alternative to Western concepts that have failed to be fully implemented. The summit aims to articulate this Islamic boarding school system for potential global adoption.

Papua Health Office focuses on early malaria detection through 'Token' Programme

The Papua Provincial Government is intensifying malaria control by strengthening early detection via the 'Token' programme, which stands for Find, Treat, and Control Risk Factors. The initiative involves mass blood surveys, indoor spraying, and environmental monitoring to curb transmission in endemic areas. Authorities are also urging cross-sector collaboration and public participation to achieve more effective malaria elimination.

KPK Suspends Detention of Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Due to Illness

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has temporarily suspended the detention of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas so he can receive hospital treatment for a digestive illness. The suspension was granted following a medical examination that recommended inpatient care, while investigators continue to probe the alleged corruption in the management of additional Hajj quotas. The case, which reportedly caused state losses of Rp622 billion, also involves several other suspects including a special staffer and travel company executives.

Japan: Collective Commitment Crucial to Resolve North Korean Abduction Issue

Japan's UN Ambassador has stressed the need for sustained international attention to resolve the abductions of Japanese, American, and Thai nationals by North Korea. The envoy highlighted that the humanitarian issue remains urgent, as victims are still deprived of their freedom decades after the abductions occurred between 1977 and 1983. A recent UN human rights report noted no progress on the matter, underscoring the need for redoubled collective efforts.

LPSK Reviews Protection Request for Confinement Victim in Bandung

Indonesia's Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is assessing a protection request for a 29-year-old woman allegedly subjected to violence and confinement in Bandung, West Java. Emergency protection has already been granted while the agency coordinates with a local hospital. Police have arrested a suspect and plan to involve psychiatric experts to evaluate his mental state during the investigation.

US Senate Passes Resolution to End War on Iran, Enraging Trump

The US Senate has passed a symbolic resolution calling for an end to hostilities against Iran, prompting a furious response from President Donald Trump. Trump denounced the vote as ill-timed and accused the four Republican senators who supported it of undermining his stance against Tehran. The resolution represents the strongest congressional rebuke of the president's war powers, despite a temporary peace deal already being in place.