Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 1,601-1,650 of 1,678 articles

US F-15 Pilot: Iran Has Drones Like Alien Aircraft

A US fighter pilot shot down over Iran described witnessing a coordinated formation of Iranian drones resembling a jellyfish, sparking intense debate within American intelligence circles. The pilot's account, shared during a post-rescue intelligence briefing, highlighted the sophistication of Iran's evolving drone warfare capabilities. The incident marked the first known loss of a US aircraft over Iranian territory during the conflict.

US Senate Approves Resolution Demanding Trump End War with Iran

The Republican-controlled US Senate has passed a bipartisan resolution instructing President Donald Trump to cease military hostilities with Iran, marking the first time both chambers of Congress have approved such a measure since the 1973 War Powers Resolution. Although largely symbolic and non-binding, the 50-48 vote increases political pressure on the White House amid growing public discontent and rising petrol prices. The move comes despite an existing ceasefire, with Washington and Tehran currently negotiating a broader agreement on Iran's nuclear programme.

Jakarta crime roundup: Motive behind husband's murder of wife, Molotov cocktail suspect identified

A series of criminal incidents in Jakarta on Tuesday included a husband allegedly murdering his wife in Tambora following a dispute over drug use, and police identifying the perpetrators of a Molotov cocktail attack in Koja. Other cases involved a couple using their child as a decoy during motorcycle thefts and the detention of 11 teenagers during a public order patrol.

Veda Ega Pratama: Finishing Fifth Is Not Enough

Indonesian Moto3 rookie Veda Ega Pratama expressed dissatisfaction despite a remarkable charge from 20th on the grid to finish fifth at the Brno circuit. The 17-year-old Honda Team Asia rider believes his bike needs improvements to compete with the dominant KTM machines, highlighting his relentless ambition beyond merely scoring points.

Prabowo: No Corruption Allowed in the Indonesian Government!

President Prabowo Subianto has issued a firm directive against corruption within his administration, stating that a clean government is essential for national prosperity. He highlighted ongoing efforts to plug revenue leakages, including shutting down hundreds of illegal mines and plantations. The President framed the anti-corruption drive as a fulfilment of his oath to safeguard the interests of the nation and its people.

Fugitive in Sadistic Abuse Case Captured in Bandung After Fleeing to Tangerang

Taufik Hidayat, suspected of imprisoning and torturing his girlfriend for nearly three years, was arrested in Bandung after a brief flight to Tangerang. The suspect returned to West Java out of fear and paranoia, eventually being apprehended at a housing complex in Ciparay. The victim suffered severe injuries during the prolonged abuse in a rented room in Cileunyi.

Jakarta news roundup: Job fair, dangling cables, and West Java governor's floral tribute

A roundup of key events in Jakarta includes a job fair offering over 4,000 vacancies, growing resident complaints about hazardous dangling utility cables, and the city administration's pledge to prioritise welfare amid budget cut rumours. The provincial government also expressed gratitude for a unique floral arrangement sent by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi for Jakarta's 499th anniversary.

Local Dairy Farmers' Production Rises 32.5% Through USIDP 2025

Indonesia's domestic milk production has surged by 32.5% in 2025, driven by the U.S.–Indonesia Dairy Partnership (USIDP). The programme, involving USDEC and American universities, aims to boost productivity and quality to support the government's free nutritious meal initiative. Officials highlighted the collaboration's role in strengthening food security and reducing import dependency.

Bogor Regency to Build 'Zamzam Tower' Concept Hajj Embarkation Building

The Bogor Regency government will begin construction of a Hajj and Umrah embarkation building in Pakansari, designed to resemble Makkah's Zamzam Tower, with a tender process starting in December 2026. The seven-storey facility, costing IDR 142 billion from the 2027 regional budget, will be built within the Nurul Wathon Grand Mosque complex. The project was postponed from the current fiscal year to ensure optimal construction and avoid a rushed completion.

Fariz RM Undergoes Further Police Questioning Over Song Copyright Report

Senior musician Fariz RM has undergone additional police questioning regarding his report of alleged copyright infringement of the song 'Di Antara Kata'. He stated that the evidence gathered has strengthened the case, confirming a violation occurred. The investigation is expected to progress from an inquiry to a full investigation.

Bizarre: How an Oil-Rich Nation Ended Up in a Fuel Crisis

Russia, one of the world's largest crude oil producers, is grappling with domestic petrol shortages, long queues at filling stations, and rising fuel prices. The crisis has been linked to reduced output at key refineries damaged amid the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict. The government is reportedly considering fuel imports to alleviate the supply disruption.

BMKG Weather Forecast for Wednesday, 24 June 2026: North Sumatra and Riau Islands on Alert for Heavy Rain

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for significant weather on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, placing North Sumatra and the Riau Islands on 'Alert' status for heavy to very heavy rain. The conditions are primarily driven by Tropical Cyclone Seed 94UW in the Pacific Ocean, which is triggering the concentration of rain clouds across the archipelago. Other regions are placed on a lower 'Caution' status for moderate to heavy rainfall, with the public urged to remain vigilant against potential hydrometeorological disasters.

Taufik Hidayat's Confession After Arrest: Expresses Regret and Claims Intoxication During Abuse of YTR

Taufik Hidayat, arrested for the prolonged abuse and confinement of his girlfriend YTR, has confessed to his crimes, expressing regret and claiming he was under the influence of alcohol during the assaults. Police confirmed the suspect tested negative for narcotics but admitted to consuming a specific brand of liquor before committing the violence. The investigation continues as the suspect remains in custody at the West Java Regional Police headquarters.

55,000 Qurans to Be Distributed in Stages to 3,000 Islamic Schools

The Indonesian Quran Waqf Body (BWA) has symbolically handed over 55,000 copies of the Quran to the Mathla'ul Anwar organisation for distribution. The mushafs will be delivered in stages to over 3,000 madrasas, schools, and universities under Mathla'ul Anwar's network across Indonesia. The initiative aims to support Quranic education and ensure the waqf copies become a source of ongoing charity for the donors.

MSCI Acknowledges Indonesia's Capital Market Reforms, Maintains Emerging Market Status with Continued Oversight Until 2026

Global index provider MSCI has acknowledged recent transparency reforms by Indonesian financial authorities but will keep the country's market classification under review until November 2026. The firm noted that consistent implementation of measures such as enhanced shareholder disclosures and a roadmap to a 15% free float requirement is crucial for international institutional investors. MSCI warned that insufficient progress could trigger a consultation on reclassifying Indonesia from Emerging Market to Frontier Market status.

Prabowo Targets Closure of 800 Loss-Making State-Owned Enterprises, Claims Trillions in Savings

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to close up to 800 underperforming state-owned enterprises (BUMN), citing significant losses and poor governance. He claims that shutting down 240 such entities has already saved trillions of rupiah by eliminating unnecessary operational and management costs. The restructuring aligns with a broader government target to consolidate over 1,100 BUMN entities down to just 257.

New Indonesian Hajj Registrants Surge 118.61 Percent in May

Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) reported a significant surge in new hajj registrants, exceeding operational targets by 118.61 percent as of May 2026. The total number of new registrants reached 203,452, reflecting strong public confidence in the state-managed pilgrimage fund, which now totals Rp181.73 trillion. The agency also reported a yield on investment of 6.57 percent, while parliament has urged strengthened risk mitigation to protect the growing pool of depositors' funds.

Muhammadiyah's Devoted Service to the Nation

The article reflects on the enduring national role of Muhammadiyah, Indonesia's second-largest Islamic organisation, highlighting its vast contributions to education, healthcare, and social welfare. It details the movement's philosophy of quiet, impactful service, its 'constitutional jihad' against harmful laws, and its growing economic networks aimed at fostering self-reliance. The piece underscores how Muhammadiyah's century-long dedication to philanthropy and nation-building has earned it deep respect from successive Indonesian presidents.

Garongan Village Chief Removed Over Rp 300,000 Corruption Case

The Kulon Progo district government has temporarily dismissed Garongan Village Chief Ngadiman after police named him a suspect in a corruption case involving Rp 300,000. The regent signed the suspension order on Monday, affirming respect for the legal process. Ngadiman had previously claimed the money was a personal gift, not related to his official duties.

‘More than just an airline': Why Sarawak must nip state-owned AirBorneo's troubles in the bud

Sarawak's newly rebranded state-owned airline AirBorneo faces mounting public criticism over high fares and operational disruptions, threatening to undermine the state's broader push for economic autonomy. Analysts warn that the airline's performance is a litmus test for Sarawak's capacity to manage strategic assets, with implications for other flagship projects like the energy firm Petros. The state government has acknowledged the issues as temporary transition challenges and pledged to resolve them.

Revenue Grows 34%, Blibli Secures Spot in Fortune Southeast Asia 500 for 2026

Indonesian e-commerce company Blibli has been listed in the Fortune Southeast Asia 500 for the third consecutive year, climbing 32 positions to rank 228th. The achievement was driven by a 34% increase in total revenue, supported by its integrated omnichannel ecosystem.

Commentary: ASEAN-Russia summit is not a tilt toward Moscow

The high-level ASEAN-Russia summit in Kazan reflects Southeast Asia's strategic desire to maintain diplomatic flexibility and diversify partnerships amid global uncertainty, rather than signalling alignment with Moscow. While the meeting provides Russia with symbolic political cover against isolation narratives, ASEAN's focus remains on practical cooperation in areas like energy security, constrained by sanctions and Russia's limited economic footprint in the region. The summit underscores ASEAN's long-standing preference for engagement over isolation, even as it navigates the reputational risks posed by Russia's breach of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation's core principles.

House Commission IX Proposes National Ban on Cat and Dog Meat Trade

Indonesia's House Commission IX has renewed calls for a nationwide ban on the trade of cat and dog meat to curb rabies transmission. The proposal, raised during a meeting with the Health Minister, highlights that over 100 rabies deaths occur annually in Indonesia, contrasting sharply with countries like Turkey. A previous bill on the matter was removed from the national legislation programme.

West Java Police Place Suspect in Woman's Confinement Case in Special Cell

West Java Police have placed Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the confinement and abuse of a 29-year-old woman, in a special isolation cell under constant CCTV surveillance. The suspect is accused of committing heinous acts resulting in severe physical damage to the victim over a three-year period. Initial examinations are underway, with psychiatric experts being involved to assess the suspect's mental state.

Canadian Police on Alert for Copycat Attacks Following Incel Manifesto Linked to Montreal Mass Shooting

Canadian federal police have issued a nationwide warning about potential copycat attacks after a mass shooting in Montreal that left three dead. The alert follows the publication of a 104-page manifesto by the perpetrator, which echoed incel ideology and called for the killing of police officers and other targets. The incident has heightened fears of further violence inspired by extreme misogynistic movements.

MSCI Retains Indonesia in Emerging Market Index with Key Transparency Caveats

Global index provider MSCI has confirmed Indonesia will remain in its Emerging Markets category, providing stability for the domestic bourse. However, the decision comes with a constructive note urging improvements in shareholder transparency to meet international standards. Regulators have responded proactively with new disclosure rules, though MSCI will review implementation progress by November 2026.

Prabowo Subianto Receives Consolidation Report on Hundreds of SOEs from Danantara

President Prabowo Subianto has been briefed on the completed consolidation of 258 state-owned enterprises (SOEs) by Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani. The restructuring is part of a broader effort to streamline over 1,000 state entities, with a further 300 companies targeted in the next phase. The initiative aims to boost operational efficiency, strengthen governance, and enhance the global competitiveness of Indonesian state corporations.

Startups Remain Engines of Digital Economic Growth Amid Governance Challenges

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs asserts that startups are vital for national economic growth and job creation, despite challenges in corporate governance and capital-intensive investment trends. The digital economy's value has reached approximately USD 100 billion, but up to 80 per cent of this value still flows abroad.

Promising Export Business Ideas for Bali's MSMEs

Bali's creative economy offers significant export potential, with the value of exports reaching US$565 million in 2025. Key sectors include processed agricultural goods, handicrafts, and slow-fashion or wellness products. The article outlines the legal requirements and practical steps for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to enter the international market.

40 Drown in France as Extreme Heatwave Hits Europe

An extreme heatwave sweeping across Europe has claimed at least 40 lives in France, primarily through drowning incidents as people sought relief in unsafe waters. The record-breaking temperatures have forced the early closure of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, disrupted public transport, and even shut down a nuclear power plant due to high river water temperatures. Spain and Italy are also on high alert, with emergency measures enacted to protect outdoor workers from the scorching conditions.

Delegasi 28 Negara Hadiri Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series (IGS) 2026 di Makassar

Kementerian Luar Negeri RI dan Pemerintah Kota Makassar akan menggelar Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series (IGS) 2026 pada 23–25 Juni, dihadiri delegasi diplomatik dari 28 negara. Acara ini bertujuan mempromosikan perdagangan, investasi, dan pariwisata melalui kekayaan kuliner serta budaya, termasuk Investment dan Business Forum yang mempertemukan pelaku usaha daerah dengan mitra internasional. Inisiatif ini merupakan bagian dari strategi diplomasi pembangunan untuk memperkuat posisi Makassar sebagai gerbang ekonomi Kawasan Timur Indonesia.

Indonesia clings to emerging markets mantle as MSCI extends review to November

Global index provider MSCI has postponed its decision on whether to downgrade Indonesia to frontier market status until November, acknowledging recent regulatory reforms but demanding consistent implementation. The extension offers temporary relief for Indonesian equities, which have suffered heavy foreign outflows and a nearly 30% decline this year amid broader concerns over President Prabowo's spending agenda and reduced policymaking credibility. Jakarta's financial authorities pledged to accelerate reforms, but analysts warn that the risk of a devastating downgrade has only been deferred, not eliminated.

IMO Prepares to Evacuate 11,000 Seafarers Trapped in the Strait of Hormuz

The International Maritime Organization is planning a large-scale operation to evacuate over 11,000 stranded seafarers from the Gulf region following the US-Israel conflict with Iran. The mission depends on keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, amid ongoing disputes between Washington and Tehran over nuclear inspections and transit fees. The disruption has already caused Brent crude prices to spike and severely reduced commercial shipping traffic through the strategic waterway.

West Java Police Chief Says Perpetrator of Confinement and Abuse in Bandung Fled to Tangerang

West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Setiawan detailed the escape and capture of Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the severe confinement and abuse of a 29-year-old woman in Bandung. The suspect initially fled to Tangerang, Banten, believing it to be safe, but later returned to a relative's home in Majalaya, Bandung, where digital transactions led to his arrest. The suspect has confessed to the crimes, claiming they were committed under the influence of alcohol, while police continue to investigate the specific motives.

Portuguese Woman Detained at Bali Airport for Carrying 50 Rounds of Ammunition Without Permit

A 47-year-old Portuguese woman was detained at Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport after security screening revealed 50 rounds of .22 calibre ammunition in her rucksack. The woman, who claimed to be a member of a shooting federation in her home country, said she had inadvertently brought the ammunition from her training bag. She is now facing legal proceedings as she could not produce any official Indonesian permits for possessing or transporting the ammunition.

UPH Design Week 2026: Answering the AI Challenge with True Design True Impact

Universitas Pelita Harapan's Faculty of Design launched UPH Design Week 2026 to address the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the creative industry. The event, themed 'True Design–True Impact', emphasises that design must go beyond aesthetics to deliver meaningful societal solutions. University leaders stressed that AI should be embraced as a tool to enrich human creativity rather than replace it.

MSMEs Remain Sluggish Due to Purchasing Power and Administrative Issues

Indonesia's micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) credit growth remains sluggish, expanding only 0.6 percent year-on-year in May 2026, as weakened purchasing power and complex administrative hurdles deter both borrowers and banks. Business associations report that many micro enterprises lack standardised financial reports, while layered loan application filters and fears of default further restrict credit access. In response, the government has ratified a law allowing debt write-offs for non-performing MSME loans and is subsidising interest rates for ultramicro women entrepreneurs to as low as 8 percent.

Students Demand BEM UBK Resignation Over Alleged Payment from Gibran

Students at Bung Karno University (UBK) are demanding the resignation of several student executive board (BEM) members accused of receiving money from Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. The allegations surfaced following a meeting on 15 June, prompting calls for academic sanctions and the return of state scholarship funds. The university has suspended the BEM chairman pending an ethics investigation, during which he admitted to receiving Rp20 million from a police officer through a senior alumnus.

Russian Drone Strikes Kill Nine Across Ukraine

Russian drone attacks across Ukraine have resulted in nine fatalities, including six in the central Dnipropetrovsk region. The strikes come amid an intensification of hostilities by both Moscow and Kyiv, while US-led peace talks remain stalled.

Health Minister Proposes TB Patients as Recipients of Free Nutritious Meals, Here's Why

Indonesia's Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has proposed including tuberculosis (TB) patients in the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. He argues that TB sufferers, alongside pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers, are nutritionally vulnerable and that adequate nutrition can strengthen their immunity and accelerate recovery, citing successful implementations in India and China.

The Phenomenon of Balinese Youth Slang, Including 'Sing Mebutuh Ci Nok'

The article explores the emergence of slang within the Balinese language among the island's youth. Driven by social media, modernisation, and Bali's multilingual environment, young people are creating new expressions that blend foreign influences with local dialect. This linguistic innovation serves as a symbol of solidarity and cultural identity while demonstrating the adaptability of the younger generation.

Surabaya Mayor Apologises as City Hit by Floods for Two Consecutive Days

Surabaya Mayor Eri Cahyadi has apologised to residents after heavy rain caused flooding across the city for two days in a row. He attributed the inundation to unseasonal rainfall, ongoing drainage construction projects, and high sea tides hampering water disposal. The city is deploying pumps and maximising temporary retention basins while targeting completion of major drainage works before the November-December rainy season.

Pete Hegseth: US Cannot Sustain Economy Without Military Superiority

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has argued that American economic stability is fundamentally dependent on maintaining undisputed military superiority. In a New York Post opinion piece, he contended that no amount of fiscal savings could protect the nation's economic health if its military edge is lost. Hegseth warned that insufficient investment in defence spending now represents the greatest threat to US national security.

Saudi Arabia Executes 100 People in 2026, Majority for Drug Offences

Saudi Arabia has executed 100 people so far in 2026, with 65 of those executions related to drug offences, according to official tallies. Amnesty International has condemned the milestone, highlighting the disproportionate impact on foreign nationals and warning that 63 Ethiopians may face imminent execution. The kingdom reinstated the death penalty for drug crimes in 2022 and ranks third globally in executions, behind China and Iran.

BTN Considers Share Buyback for Employee Bonuses

State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) is exploring a share buyback scheme to fund employee bonuses and stock ownership programmes. The plan is being considered because the bank's management views the current BBTN share price as undervalued. The proposal is under review for inclusion in a forthcoming revision of the bank's business plan.

Ministry of Industry Spokesperson Denies Rumours of Two Companies Relocating to Vietnam

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry has firmly denied rumours that two automotive component manufacturers are relocating production from East Java to Vietnam. The ministry confirmed both companies are operating normally and have no plans to move or conduct layoffs, warning that the false reports have disrupted supply chains and investor confidence.

Bandung confinement suspect fled to Tangerang before capture

West Java Police revealed that Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the confinement and assault of a woman in Bandung Regency, briefly fled to Tangerang before returning and being arrested in Majalaya. The suspect was tracked through his online transactions and has confessed to the crimes, claiming he acted under the influence of alcohol. The victim suffered severe injuries including blindness, a cleft lip, and difficulty walking.

Suspect Taufik Hidayat Fled to Tangerang Before Arrest

West Java Police revealed that Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the abuse and confinement case that blinded Yuvita Tri Rezeki, initially fled to Tangerang. Feeling unsafe and confused, he returned to a relative's home in Majalaya, Bandung, where he was eventually tracked down and arrested. The police stated they have not yet identified any individuals who may have harboured the suspect during his flight.

KP2MI and ULM Sign MoU to Support Quality Improvement of Migrant Workers

Indonesia's Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has partnered with Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) and eight other South Kalimantan universities to enhance the quality and protection of migrant workers. The collaboration includes establishing the first integrated Migrant Center in Kalimantan to provide official migration literacy and prevent non-procedural migration. Minister Mukhtarudin highlighted a significant global labour demand, noting over 234,000 overseas job opportunities remain unfilled due to a lack of competent Indonesian workers.

House: Black Market Lobster Seed Trade Costs State Trillions of Rupiah

Indonesia's House of Representatives has raised alarm over the rampant smuggling of lobster seeds, which is costing the state trillions of rupiah in lost revenue. A parliamentary working committee is being formed to address regulatory weaknesses and oversee the aquaculture sector. The illicit trade is driven by a stark price disparity, with seeds fetching up to Rp200,000 each on the international black market compared to a domestic floor price of Rp8,500.