Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

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US Public Sees Trump as 'Paper Tiger', Support for Iran Policy Plummets

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll reveals plummeting US public support for President Trump's war with Iran, with only a quarter deeming it worth the cost. Trump's overall approval rating has fallen to 34%, matching his lowest point, amid widespread scepticism about the durability of a recent ceasefire deal. The findings signal significant political peril for Trump and his party ahead of the midterm elections.

Prabowo Departs for Gorontalo to Attend 17th National Farmers and Fishermen's Week

President Prabowo Subianto has departed for Gorontalo to attend the 17th National Farmers and Fishermen's Week (PENAS). The event aims to facilitate the exchange of agricultural innovations, policy dialogue, and business partnerships to boost national productivity and food self-sufficiency. He was accompanied by several key cabinet officials on the working visit.

Taufik Hidayat's Past Revealed: Former Wife's Testimony Uncovers New Facts in YTR Confinement Case

Police investigating the alleged confinement and abuse of a woman identified as YTR in Bandung Regency have uncovered new evidence suggesting a history of violence by the suspect, Taufik Hidayat. His former wife has reportedly confirmed she also experienced similar mistreatment during their relationship, though not as severe. Authorities are now exploring the possibility of additional victims and have urged the public to come forward with any relevant information.

OJK Responds After MSCI Keeps Indonesian Stock Exchange in Emerging Market Status

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed MSCI's decision to retain the country's capital market in its Emerging Market classification for 2026. The OJK noted that MSCI acknowledged positive progress in Indonesia's market reform agenda, including improved transparency. The authority pledged to continue strengthening reforms and maintaining constructive engagement with global index providers and investors.

The Moment Gun Jack Revealed His BIN Card Near the End of His Life

The late Yogyakarta legend Gun Jack, known publicly as a preman figure, reportedly revealed his identity as a State Intelligence Agency (BIN) operative to his family only during his final illness in 2009. His wife Dyah Safitri disclosed that he had kept his work secret throughout their marriage, finally showing his BIN card to satisfy their daughter's curiosity. The revelation sheds new light on the double life of a man long perceived as a notorious street figure.

Drug Test Results Released! Taufik Hidayat's Confession About YTR Shocks Investigators

Police in Bandung have confirmed that Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the alleged confinement and abuse of his girlfriend YTR, tested negative for narcotics. However, the 30-year-old admitted to committing violent acts under the influence of alcohol, specifically a brand of black wine. The investigation continues as authorities delve deeper into the motives and pattern of the abuse.

Prisoners to Be Involved in Food Security Programme as Part of Rehabilitation

Indonesia's Ministry of Immigration and Corrections is integrating prisoners into the national food security programme as a method of rehabilitation. The initiative provides inmates with training and work experience, while also allowing former prisoners to return as mentors. Minister Agus Andrianto stated the programme aims to help society accept ex-convicts and contribute to government policy.

UN: Fuel Shortages Disrupt Services in Gaza

The United Nations reports that severe fuel shortages are crippling essential services in Gaza, forcing humanitarian partners to prioritise life-saving operations. Ongoing violence across the occupied territories, including a fatal shooting in Hebron, and access restrictions in the West Bank are further compounding the humanitarian crisis.

Can Illicit Wealth Be Purified by Paying Zakat of 2.5%?

Islamic teachings firmly state that zakat, or obligatory alms, cannot purify wealth acquired through haram (forbidden) means. Scholars and hadith emphasise that charity derived from illicit sources is not accepted and the original sin of the acquisition remains, as the wealth does not rightfully belong to the possessor.

Ministry partners with TNI to accelerate school reconstruction in Aceh

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is collaborating with the Army (TNI AD) and local governments to fast-track the rehabilitation of schools damaged by hydrometeorological disasters in Aceh. The government aims to have most affected schools operational by the 2026/2027 academic year. The programme includes the reconstruction of 190 schools, with SD Negeri Utue receiving a budget of Rp1.83 billion for comprehensive repairs.

End of the Road: Taufik Hidayat, Suspect in Bandung Woman's Abuse, Arrested

Taufik Hidayat, the man suspected of holding his girlfriend captive and torturing her for three years in Bandung, has been arrested in Majalaya, West Java. The victim suffered severe injuries, including blindness and facial disfigurement, and is receiving reconstructive surgery at a state hospital under the health ministry's supervision. West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi praised the police for the swift arrest and urged the maximum penalty for the perpetrator.

UBK Students Claim to Receive Rp 20 Million from Police, Rectorate to Investigate

The rectorate of Universitas Bung Karno (UBK) has launched an internal investigation after a student leader claimed some students received Rp 20 million from police prior to a protest. The university will identify those involved and impose sanctions within its authority, while acknowledging limits in tracing the source of the funds.

Alva's Investment in Indonesia Surpasses IDR 1 Trillion

Indonesian electric motorcycle manufacturer Alva has invested over IDR 1 trillion to expand its integrated ecosystem, covering production, charging infrastructure, and after-sales services. The company's Cikarang factory has secured key certifications, including ISO 9001:2015 and the Industry 4.0 readiness index from the Ministry of Industry. Alva's sales surged to 4,508 units in 2025, a 52.9 per cent increase, reflecting growing demand for two-wheeled electric vehicles in the country.

Facts of the Taufik Hidayat Case: Woman Held Captive and Tortured for Three Years

A woman identified as YTR was held captive and tortured by her boyfriend, Taufik Hidayat, for nearly three years in a rented room in Bandung, West Java. The victim suffered severe permanent injuries, including blindness and partial loss of her lips, and was discovered after being taken to hospital. The suspect, who has a history of alcohol abuse, was arrested following a manhunt and now faces charges of confinement and abuse, with the government pledging to cover the victim's full medical costs including facial reconstruction.

End of the Road: Fugitive Taufik Hidayat, Accused of Blinding and Torturing Girlfriend, Arrested

Taufik Hidayat, a 30-year-old man suspected of holding his girlfriend captive and torturing her for nearly three years, has been arrested in Bandung Regency. The victim suffered severe injuries, including blindness, broken teeth, and a split lip. The suspect had been on the run and briefly fled to Tangerang before returning to West Java, where police tracked him down at a relative's home.

Government Unveils 8 Economic Stimulus Measures for Second Half of 2026, Including Rice Aid

The Indonesian government has announced a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package for the second half of 2026, aimed at mitigating global economic uncertainties. The measures focus on boosting consumption, supporting the workforce, and providing social safety nets, including rice aid for 33.4 million families. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto detailed the three-pillar strategy, which encompasses transport discounts, tax incentives, and vocational training.

President Prabowo to Attend National Farmers and Fishermen's Week Summit in Gorontalo

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to attend the 17th National Farmers and Fishermen's Week (Penas) summit in Gorontalo on 24 June 2026. The event focuses on agricultural innovation, policy dialogue, and business partnerships to boost national food productivity and self-sufficiency. The visit follows a domestic working trip to East Java, where the president inaugurated regional roads and attended a Nahdlatul Ulama conference.

Prabowo Claims He Should Learn Politics from NU

President Prabowo Subianto praised Nahdlatul Ulama's political acumen during the closing of its Munas Alim Ulama and Konbes in Bangkalan, Madura, joking that others should learn politics from the organisation. He highlighted NU's nationalist character, its cadre's presence across all political parties, and the vital role of kiai in understanding grassroots issues. Prabowo also emphasised his personal comfort and historical ties with the Islamic organisation.

Pakistan PM Hopes for Permanent US-Iran Deal Within 60 Days After Ceasefire

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed the ceasefire between the United States and Iran as a historic development, expressing hope for a permanent agreement within 60 days. He revealed Pakistan's role as an intermediary in bridging differences between Tehran and Washington. Sharif also announced an upcoming visit by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Islamabad for comprehensive bilateral talks.

Trump's New Ambition: What Is a Quantum Computer?

President Donald Trump has signed executive orders to accelerate the development of high-powered quantum computers within two years, aiming to bolster scientific research and national cyber defences. The White House targets a functional quantum computer by 2028 and a transition to post-quantum cryptography for government systems by 2030-2031. The move underscores the United States' strategic push to lead the global quantum technology race, which is seen as critical for future economic and security dominance.

MSCI Warning Clouds Indonesia's Emerging Market Status

Indonesia's classification as an emerging market by MSCI is under threat due to persistent investor concerns over opaque share ownership and coordinated trading. The index provider has warned that unless significant progress is made on market transparency and free float reforms by November 2026, it may consult on reclassifying Indonesia to frontier market status. While recent reform announcements by Indonesian financial authorities are acknowledged, MSCI stresses that consistent implementation and long-term impact will be the decisive factors.

Defence Ministry Explains Causes of Death for Two Prospective Cooperative Managers

Indonesia's Defence Ministry has confirmed that two participants in a government cooperative management programme died during basic military training. One death was attributed to heat stroke and the other to cardiac arrest, prompting a comprehensive evaluation of the programme's health and safety protocols. The ministry stated that both individuals had passed prior health screenings and emphasised that participant safety remains a priority.

Manpower Ministry Strengthens Vocational Education and Industry Synergy

Indonesia's Manpower Ministry is reinforcing collaboration between vocational education and industry to produce competent human resources. A new partnership between the ministry's Politeknik Ketenagakerjaan and Huawei will focus on curriculum alignment, practitioner-led teaching, and talent empowerment. The initiative aims to equip students with practical skills in occupational safety, industrial relations, and human resource management to meet modern industry demands.

Tourism Ministry expects new Spring Airlines routes to boost Chinese tourist arrivals

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry anticipates that two new direct Spring Airlines routes from Guangzhou and Shenzhen to Jakarta will significantly increase Chinese visitor numbers. The inaugural flights, which landed in mid-June, are part of a strategy to enhance air connectivity and strengthen bilateral tourism cooperation. China remains one of Indonesia's largest sources of foreign tourists, with arrivals up 25.6 per cent year-on-year in the first four months of 2026.

Foreign Investors Offload These 10 Stocks as IHSG Extends Decline

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) continued its correction, falling 0.25% to 6,101.33 on Tuesday, amid a net foreign sell-off of Rp311.60 billion across all markets. Bank Mandiri led the foreign outflows, with shares worth Rp386.58 billion sold, followed by significant disposals in Dian Swastatika Sentosa and Olympus Strategic Indonesia.

Alibaba Sues US Government Over Pentagon's Military Link Allegations

Chinese tech giant Alibaba has filed a lawsuit against the US Department of Defense, seeking removal from a Pentagon blacklist that alleges ties to China's military. The company argues the designation is arbitrary and lacks factual basis, warning that impending sanctions will force its American legal advisors to sever ties. The case highlights escalating legal friction over Washington's military-civil fusion strategy targeting major Chinese firms.

School Holidays a Key Moment for Children to Learn Independence Through Outdoor Activities

Child psychologist Saskhya Aulia Prima highlights the school holiday period as a crucial opportunity for children to develop resilience and independence through adventurous outdoor play, countering the trend of increased passive screen time. She advocates for a 'supervision partnership' where parents act as a secure base rather than over-controlling, while also warning about children's underdeveloped ability to recognise bodily signals like thirst. The campaign is supported by a brand promoting a product formulated to help manage children's body heat during physical activity.

Friendship Until Paradise

A hadith narrated by Anas bin Malik recounts a Bedouin's question to the Prophet Muhammad about the timing of the Day of Judgement. The Prophet's response—asking what he had prepared for it—and the man's declaration of love for Allah and His Messenger, led to the teaching that a person will be with those they love in the afterlife. The article reflects on how this principle elevates friendship and companionship based on faith to an eternal bond.

BMKG: Most major cities to experience cloudy skies and light rain on Wednesday

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts that the majority of the country's major cities will see cloudy conditions or light to moderate rain on Wednesday. Several areas, including Jambi, Tanjung Selor, and Merauke, are warned of potential heavy rain accompanied by lightning and strong winds. The agency also reiterated a prior warning for North Sumatra regarding possible flooding and landslides.

Indonesia Highlights Innovative National Park Financing at London Climate Action Week

Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to innovative financing for national parks, shifting from a protection paradigm to strategic investment in sustainable development. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni introduced a new task force and various financial instruments, including carbon credits and debt-for-nature swaps, to strengthen conservation efforts. The government also emphasised partnerships with indigenous communities and the private sector to ensure inclusive and long-term ecological and economic benefits.

West Java Police Chief: Taufik Hidayat's Behaviour Abnormal, This Is Sadistic

West Java Police are investigating the psychological state of Taufik Hidayat, who is accused of imprisoning and torturing his ex-girlfriend for three years. The police chief described the suspect's actions as sadistic and abnormal, noting his history of alcohol abuse. The victim suffered severe injuries, including loss of eyesight and facial disfigurement.

MSCI to Continue Monitoring Indonesian Capital Market Reforms Until November 2026

Global index provider MSCI has acknowledged recent transparency reforms by Indonesian financial authorities but warns that consistent implementation is crucial. The firm will keep Indonesia's market under review, with a potential reclassification to Frontier Market status if insufficient progress is observed by November 2026.

Chinese envoy calls for efforts to achieve ceasefire in Ukraine

China's deputy permanent representative to the UN, Sun Lei, urged all parties to de-escalate the Ukraine conflict and work towards a ceasefire, warning that intensifying hostilities only dim the prospects for peace. Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing, he called for strict adherence to international humanitarian law and stressed the need for political will and flexibility to reach a comprehensive peace agreement. Sun also advocated for a balanced and sustainable regional security architecture to address the root causes of the crisis.

UBK Law Faculty BEM Chair Admits Accepting Rp 20 Million to Avoid Palace Protest

The chairman of the Bung Karno University (UBK) Law Faculty Student Executive Board (BEM) has confessed to receiving Rp 20 million from a senior alumnus and police officer to divert a student demonstration from the Presidential Palace to the DPR building. The university has suspended the student pending an internal investigation, while the rector emphasised the protest was not mandated by the campus and warned of sanctions for any academic violations.

OJK Welcomes MSCI's Positive Assessment of Indonesia's Capital Market

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed MSCI's recognition of ongoing capital market reforms, which keeps the country in the Emerging Market category for now. However, MSCI has warned that without sufficient progress by November 2026, Indonesia risks being downgraded to Frontier Market status. The OJK remains optimistic and committed to accelerating reforms to bolster long-term investment and economic growth.

Beware of Chest Pain in Children, It Could Be a Symptom of GERD

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) has urged parents to be vigilant about chest pain in children, identifying it as a typical symptom of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The condition is often linked to unhealthy eating habits and lying down immediately after meals. IDAI recommends lifestyle and dietary modifications as initial treatment, with referral to a specialist if symptoms persist.

From Tradition, Nyobeng Becomes a Border Tourism Potential

The Dayak Bidayuh community in West Kalimantan's border region celebrates the Nyobeng ritual as a post-harvest thanksgiving, reinforcing intergenerational bonds and cultural identity. Rooted in agricultural cycles rather than performance, the tradition is now being recognised for its potential to attract cultural tourism to the remote Indonesia-Malaysia border area.

Repairs to Collapsed MTs Badrussalam Accelerated, Target Completion Before New School Year

The Mataram city government is fast-tracking the rehabilitation of MTs Badrussalam NW Sekarbela after two classrooms collapsed, aiming to finish before the new academic year. Mayor Mohan Roliskana has disbursed Rp 50 million in aid and ordered a structural assessment, with plans to use lighter materials for the upper structure to improve safety. The incident, which caused no casualties, resulted in estimated material losses exceeding Rp 1 billion for the school building dating back to 1984.

The Constitutional Economic System and the Problems Facing the President

President Prabowo Subianto has questioned why Indonesia's 35 per cent economic growth over seven years has not been evenly distributed, noting a decline in the middle class and a rise in poverty. He argues the current economic system is flawed and must be reformed to align with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution, which mandates that natural resources be used for the greatest prosperity of the people. The article suggests the prevailing liberal capitalist system is at odds with the constitutional mandate.

Adam Deni Faces 15-Year Prison Threat After Airsoft Gun Intimidation and Property Damage

Social media personality Adam Deni has been arrested again, this time for allegedly damaging a shop and threatening its owner with an airsoft gun in North Jakarta. Police say the incident was triggered by the owner scolding Deni's female friend, a former employee. Deni faces up to 15 years in prison under the 2023 Criminal Code for possessing a dangerous weapon and causing property damage.

MSCI Confirms Indonesia's Emerging Market Status, but Issues Key Caveats

MSCI has retained Indonesia's equity market in its Emerging Markets category for 2026, but warned that persistent concerns over opaque share ownership and coordinated trading could lead to a reclassification. The index provider acknowledged recent regulatory reforms by OJK, IDX, and KSEI, yet stressed that consistent implementation is crucial. A failure to demonstrate adequate progress by November 2026 may trigger a consultation on downgrading Indonesia to Frontier Market status.

MSCI Retains Indonesia's Emerging Market Status, OJK Responds

Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) has confirmed Indonesia's status as an emerging market in its latest review, a decision welcomed by the Financial Services Authority (OJK). The OJK highlighted that MSCI's positive assessment acknowledges the country's ongoing capital market reforms and improved data transparency. Indonesia was noted as one of the best-rated emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific region for market accessibility, alongside China and Malaysia.

Finance Ministry Proposes Relaxation of Regional Government Employee Spending Cap

The Ministry of Finance has proposed to the Indonesian Parliament a relaxation of the mandatory 30% cap on regional government employee spending and the 40% minimum for infrastructure spending. The move aims to provide stability for regional administrations struggling to meet payroll obligations, particularly for teachers. The proposal, agreed upon by several key ministers, seeks to be enacted through the 2027 State Budget Law.

Indonesia Denies Reports of Auto Parts Manufacturers Relocating to Vietnam

The Indonesian government has refuted claims that two automotive component makers, JAI and SAI, are shifting production to Vietnam, confirming both firms remain active in East Java with combined investments exceeding Rp 1.9 trillion. An investigation found no workforce reductions or relocation plans, underscoring the sensitivity of such rumours for the country's foreign investment climate. The ministry pledged continued monitoring to safeguard the manufacturing sector's export contributions and supply-chain stability.

Portuguese National Arrested at Ngurah Rai Airport for Carrying 50 Rounds of Ammunition

A 47-year-old Portuguese citizen was detained at Bali's Ngurah Rai International Airport after security screening revealed 50 rounds of .22 Long Rifle ammunition in his backpack. The man claimed to be a member of a shooting federation in Portugal and said he had inadvertently left the ammunition in his bag. He now faces charges under Indonesia's Criminal Code for possessing ammunition without a valid permit.

Netanyahu Calls for Israel to Reduce Dependence on US Weapons Following US-Iran Peace Deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged the development of an independent arms industry to reduce reliance on the United States, following a peace agreement between Washington and Tehran. His remarks, made to reserve officers, come amid cabinet opposition to any Israeli involvement in the US-Iran deal. Israel has historically been the largest recipient of US foreign aid since 1946.

Industry Ministry Spokesperson Denies Relocation of Two Automotive Component Factories

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has refuted reports claiming two major automotive component manufacturers in East Java are relocating to Vietnam and laying off workers. The ministry confirmed both PT JAI and PT SAI are operating normally, with a combined investment exceeding Rp1.9 trillion, and warned the false reports have disrupted their supply chains and buyer confidence.

OJK Strengthens and Accelerates Capital Market Reform in Response to MSCI Review

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has pledged to accelerate capital market reforms following MSCI's 2026 Market Classification Review, which acknowledged improvements in transparency. While MSCI recognised progress such as enhanced shareholder disclosure and a roadmap to increase the minimum free float, it cautioned that consistent implementation is crucial and will continue monitoring the market, with a potential reclassification to Frontier Market status if adequate progress is not seen by November 2026.

Porsche prepares new strategy as profit margin slumps to 1.1 percent

German automaker Porsche is developing a new long-term strategy after its profit margin fell sharply to just 1.1 percent last year. The 'Strategy 2035' plan will focus on brand strengthening, product simplification, and operational efficiency rather than aggressive sales volume growth. The company will also cut some model variants and expand platform sharing with Volkswagen Group while maintaining combustion engine and hybrid technologies alongside electrification.

Komnas Perempuan Condemns Taufik Hidayat's Brutal Abuse of Girlfriend: Inhumane!

Indonesia's National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has strongly condemned the prolonged abuse and false imprisonment of a woman by her boyfriend in Bandung. The commission characterises the three-year ordeal as gender-based violence within a personal relationship, rejecting any narrative that romanticises the systematic control and torture. It has urged law enforcement to conduct a thorough investigation and apply layered charges to ensure both accountability for the perpetrator and full recovery for the victim.