Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,678 articles

LPSK Verifies Sony Sonjaya's Justice Collaborator Application Documents

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is currently verifying documents submitted by former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, who is seeking justice collaborator status in a corruption case. His application to the Attorney General's Office was previously rejected because he was deemed a main perpetrator who had not admitted his actions. LPSK has 30 working days to review the application once it is declared complete.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Holds Interfaith Prayer for Balikpapan Refinery Operations

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga organised an interfaith prayer gathering at the Balikpapan refinery to seek smooth operations and worker safety. The event also included the distribution of Rp127 million in charitable aid to orphans, underprivileged families, and disabled communities in the Balikpapan and Penajam Paser Utara areas. The initiative is part of the broader 'Pertamina Berkah' programme, which disbursed a total of Rp1 billion across multiple regions.

Government Spokespersons Urged to Be Responsive and Humanistic in Digital Sphere

Government spokespersons in Indonesia are being urged to adapt to the complexities of digital media by communicating with consistency, empathy, and responsiveness. During a technical guidance event in Bandung, experts highlighted the need for clear, simplified messaging to maintain public trust amid shifting information consumption patterns, where a majority now access news via social media and video platforms. The initiative aims to strengthen public communication and ensure policy information is accurately conveyed in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

School holidays: BRIN researcher urges public to remain active in monitoring free nutritious meal programme

A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has called on the public to maintain oversight of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme during the school holidays. He views the break as a valuable opportunity to evaluate the programme's infrastructure and governance. The researcher also praised citizens' creative online criticism and urged the government to provide a public dashboard for transparent budget tracking.

How Does the Quran View Same-Sex Relations? Consider These Eight Verses

The Quran explicitly condemns same-sex relations, particularly through the story of the Prophet Lut's people, describing the act as abominable, transgressive, and ignorant. The verses cited highlight that this behaviour was unprecedented and led to divine punishment, framing it as a violation of the natural order created by God. The article presents a theological perspective on homosexuality within Islam, referencing specific Quranic verses.

Central Papua allocates Rp77.8 bln for free education

Central Papua has become the first province in the Papua region to allocate a large-scale free education budget, dedicating Rp77.8 billion to fund 58,920 students and school dormitories. The initiative aims to eliminate economic barriers to schooling and reduce dropout rates. The provincial government is also investing in teacher quality by targeting the certification of 1,000 teachers annually over the next two years, alongside providing additional welfare incentives.

Bontang to Brisbane: How Indonesia's fertilizer secures Aussie crops

Indonesia has shipped 47,250 metric tons of urea from Bontang to Brisbane under a new government-to-government agreement, marking a strategic shift in bilateral trade relations. The deal, which commits Indonesia to supplying 250,000 tons of urea, helps Australia mitigate supply chain risks from geopolitical tensions while Indonesia utilises surplus production after prioritising domestic needs. This symbiotic trade reinforces regional food security, with Australian crops fertilised by Indonesian urea ultimately returning to Indonesian markets as processed food and wheat.

Behind the Iran War, This 'Crunchy' Commodity Suddenly Reaps a Windfall

Disruption to Iranian pistachio exports through the Strait of Hormuz due to conflict has driven global prices to a decade high, unexpectedly benefiting Californian farmers who now dominate the market. The price surge, also fuelled by the viral popularity of Dubai chocolate, is likely temporary as Iranian supply could recover if peace holds. Meanwhile, Californian producers face their own challenges from extreme weather and water restrictions.

7 Key Facts about POOSI, the National Organisation for Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers

POOSI (Paguyuban Ojek Online Seluruh Indonesia) serves as a formal national body representing online motorcycle taxi drivers across Indonesia. The organisation focuses on advocating for fair regulations, tariffs, and platform policies while providing education and training to improve driver welfare and competence. It operates on principles of solidarity, advocacy, transparency, and national spirit to build a more equitable and sustainable ecosystem for its members.

Electric vehicles overtake petrol cars in Europe for the first time

Battery-electric vehicles have surpassed pure petrol cars in market share across Europe, including the UK and EFTA countries, driven by surging demand and a strong performance from Chinese brands. Overall registrations of new petrol cars fell sharply, while Tesla and Chinese manufacturers like BYD posted significant gains.

Danantara Strengthens Risk Management to Maintain Investor Confidence

Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund Danantara is reinforcing its risk management framework by separating asset management and investment functions to protect state-owned enterprises. CEO Rosan Roeslani highlighted strong global investor confidence, evidenced by a recent US dollar bond issuance that was oversubscribed by more than three times.

Daycare Little Aresha Yogyakarta Case Now in the Hands of the Prosecutor's Office

The criminal case of child abuse at the Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta has been declared complete and handed over to the prosecutor's office. Thirteen suspects, including caregivers, the head teacher, and the foundation chairman, face charges under the Child Protection Law, with management also facing additional regulations. The case involves 103 child victims and a team of public prosecutors has been formed to prepare the indictment.

BRI Life Supports Ministry of SMEs with Insurance Education at UMKM Fun Run 5K

BRI Life participated in the UMKM Fun Run 5K in Jakarta to promote healthy lifestyles and enhance financial literacy among small business actors. The state-owned insurer provided an activation booth offering consultations and digital insurance products like MODI. The initiative aligns with the company's commitment to strengthening the national SME ecosystem and expanding insurance inclusion.

Kadin Highlights Land Disputes and Investment Certainty in Industrial Zone Bill

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) has raised concerns that overlapping land permits and regulations are the main obstacles to industrial zone expansion and legal certainty. Kadin's Deputy Chairman noted that these overlaps often lead to disputes over land conversion, particularly involving protected rice fields, undermining investor confidence. The chamber also urged the government to include provisions in the new Industrial Zone Bill for granting longer, non-staged building rights (HGB) to improve Indonesia's investment competitiveness against regional rivals like Vietnam and Thailand.

Dr Tifa's First Trial Set for 2 July, Roy Suryo Awaits Pretrial Ruling

The East Jakarta District Court has scheduled the first hearing for defendant Tifauzia Tyassuma on 2 July 2026 in a defamation case involving President Jokowi's diploma. Meanwhile, co-defendant Roy Suryo's trial is pending the outcome of his pretrial motion filed at the South Jakarta District Court, which challenges his arrest and search procedures.

China's Autonomous Regions Record Significant Economic Growth

China's five provincial-level autonomous regions have seen their combined GDP more than double from 3.25 trillion yuan in 2012 to 8.66 trillion yuan in 2025. The figures were released by a senior official from the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee. The regions include Inner Mongolia, Guangxi, Xizang, Ningxia, and Xinjiang.

PP 20/2026 Demonstrates Government's Support for Micro and Small Enterprises

The Indonesian government has issued PP 20/2026, which removes the time limit for micro and small enterprises with turnover below Rp4.8 billion to utilise the 0.5% final income tax rate. This regulation also maintains a 0% tax rate for businesses with annual turnover up to Rp500 million, reinforcing fiscal support for the smallest enterprises.

Suspected Perpetrator of Sexual Abuse Against Stepchild Detained in Batanghari

A 51-year-old man has been detained in Batanghari Regency, Jambi, after being accused of sexually abusing his stepdaughter. The allegations surfaced when the victim disclosed the abuse to relatives, prompting the village chief to intervene and prevent mob justice. The suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation.

11,000 Seafarers Stranded in Persian Gulf to Be Evacuated

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has announced a large-scale evacuation of over 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf, in cooperation with Iran, Oman, the United States, and other coastal states. The operation follows a recent US-Iran memorandum aimed at ending military conflict and lifting naval blockades, restoring safe passage in the Strait of Hormuz. The IMO has provided necessary security guarantees, expressing confidence that conditions now allow vessels to transit safely.

Lovina Beach Gets a Facelift, Redevelopment Progress Reaches 92%

The redevelopment of Lovina Beach in North Bali is nearly complete, with progress reaching 92%. The project includes a 651-metre pedestrian path and 34 new lighting points, aimed at enhancing safety and comfort for visitors. Local officials and tourism operators hope the upgraded facilities will boost the destination's competitiveness and drive economic growth in Buleleng.

Smartphone Photography Training: BULOG's PR Strategy in the Digital Era

Perum BULOG, Indonesia's state logistics agency, partnered with ANTARA news agency to conduct smartphone photography training for its public relations staff. The initiative aims to enhance visual communication skills, enabling BULOG to build public trust and effectively narrate its contributions to national food security. The training focuses on transforming everyday images into powerful storytelling tools to strengthen the institution's reputation.

Defence Ministry confirms death of prospective KNMP manager during basic military training

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of a third participant in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangun Indonesia (SPPI) programme during basic military training. Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, a prospective manager for the Koperasi Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP), died from tuberculosis-related health complications despite receiving intensive medical care. The ministry has pledged to evaluate the training system and strengthen health supervision following the fatalities.

Hilman Latief Tight-Lipped After KPK Questioning in Hajj Quota Case

Former Director General of Hajj and Umrah, Hilman Latief, remained reticent following his second questioning by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding the alleged misappropriation of additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024. The KPK is investigating the division of 20,000 extra quotas, which was split 50:50 between special and regular hajj, contravening the statutory 8% limit for special hajj. The case, which has already named former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas as a suspect, is estimated to have caused state losses of IDR 622 billion.

Terrifying Moment Iron Fence Falls from Tomang Flyover After Trailer Truck Accident

A trailer truck carrying wire mesh fencing overturned on the Jakarta-Tangerang Toll Road's Tomang Flyover, causing its load to spill onto the road below. The incident led to severe traffic congestion and a temporary closure of the Tomang Toll Gate heading towards Priok and Cawang. Authorities have since completed the evacuation and reopened the affected lanes.

Hopes for UK's Return to EU Likely to Be Unrequited

A British politics expert suggests the European Union is unlikely to welcome a UK attempt to rejoin under a new Labour government, citing Britain's historically difficult membership and Brussels' own internal challenges. The analysis follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer's announcement of his resignation as Labour Party leader, amid political turmoil and pressure from within his party.

Jakarta Government Plans to Build 11 Large-Capacity Flats in 2027

The Jakarta provincial government has announced plans to construct 11 large-capacity public housing blocks (rusun) in 2027. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo stated the decision was approved during budget discussions as a response to limited land availability and rising landed house prices. The flats will be offered transparently for both ownership and rental to address the capital's housing needs.

Untar's Communication Faculty Turns 20, Rector Stresses University's Role in Strengthening Digital Literacy

Universitas Tarumanagara's Faculty of Communication marked its 20th anniversary with a call for higher education to play a greater role in bolstering public digital literacy. The rector highlighted the need for critical information filtering amidst rising misinformation and disinformation. The faculty aims to produce graduates who are not only competent but also empathetic and socially impactful.

West Java Offers 46 Strategic Projects, Targets Malaysian Investment

The West Java provincial government is preparing 46 strategic projects and 44 ready-to-use industrial estates to attract investors at the Selangor International Business Summit 2026. The initiative aims to secure up to Rp50 trillion in investment from Malaysia, with officials highlighting streamlined digital licensing and anti-corruption measures to reassure global businesses. Sectors targeted include aerospace, renewable energy, infrastructure, and downstream industries.

Resembling Humans in the Womb, a Baby of Another Species Is Born

Researchers have reconstructed the prenatal growth patterns of a Neanderthal infant from 50,000 to 60,000 years ago, revealing striking similarities to modern human foetal development. Analysis of bone fragments from a German cave indicates the baby's microanatomy aligns with a late-term modern human pregnancy. The study also uncovered evidence of metabolic bone disease in other Neanderthal children at the site, marking the earliest known instance of such conditions in non-modern humans.

Amstrong Sembiring Asks Government to Consider Deponering Over Suspension of Detention for Roy Suryo and Dr Tifa

Legal expert JJ Amstrong Sembiring has urged the Indonesian government to consider using its deponering authority to drop the cases against Roy Suryo and Dr Tifa, arguing it could serve national interest and political reconciliation better than a mere suspension of detention. He cautioned that while deponering could reduce public polarisation, it must be applied carefully based on public interest and justice, not political pressure. The core question, he stated, is whether the cases meet the strong public interest criteria to be set aside.

MBG, School Holidays, and the Importance of Risk Management

The temporary suspension of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme during school holidays has sparked complaints from partner businesses over financial losses. This article argues that while the government must improve communication and governance, participating entrepreneurs also need to adopt robust risk management strategies, recognising that public programmes are subject to policy changes and should not be treated as risk-free ventures.

Qatar Signals Gulf States Ready to Provide US$300 Billion for Iran

Qatar's Prime Minister has indicated that Gulf states could contribute to a proposed US$300 billion investment fund for Iran, contingent upon a final agreement between Tehran and Washington. The fund, described as 'aspirational' by the Qatari leader, is part of a broader US-proposed framework aimed at fostering regional economic cooperation and stability. The initiative is linked to a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran that also includes lifting a naval blockade and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

Pegadaian Supports GENCARKAN 2026 on the Malaysia Border

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian is collaborating with financial regulators and local government to deliver the National Financial Literacy Movement (GENCARKAN) 2026 in Indonesia's border region of Nunukan and Sebatik Island. The initiative aims to boost financial literacy and inclusion in the frontier area, helping residents manage finances, invest safely, and avoid illegal financial schemes. The event also serves as the kick-off for North Kalimantan's Financial Literacy Month, targeting underserved communities in the nation's outermost territories.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Advises IPDN Papua Cadets on Leadership Foundations

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto delivered a lecture to IPDN Papua cadets, emphasising that future leaders must be grounded in ideology, strategy, and tactics to avoid transactional politics. He shared his experience as Bogor mayor, where a focus on gradual, community-focused programmes led to a significant increase in local revenue and improved public spaces.

Ministry of Culture Officially Launches KILA 2026, Inviting Indonesian Children to Create and Revitalise Children's Songs

Indonesia's Ministry of Culture has launched the KILA 2026 programme, continuing its annual initiative to strengthen the children's song ecosystem through songwriting and singing competitions. Minister Fadli Zon and cultural officials emphasised the programme's role in character building, cultural identity, and nurturing young talent. The initiative aims to address the limited production of age-appropriate children's music in Indonesia.

Police Arrest Hard Drug Dealer in Serang, Seize Thousands of Hexymer Pills

Police in Serang, Banten, have arrested a 25-year-old man for illegally distributing prescription drugs, confiscating over 3,000 pills of Hexymer and Tramadol. The suspect allegedly sourced the drugs via a Facebook account and sold them online without a licence. He faces charges under Indonesia's Health Law for circulating pharmaceutical products without proper authority.

Maxim and Cheshire Indonesia Foundation Provide Transport Aid and Open Partnership Opportunities for People with Disabilities

Ride-hailing platform Maxim has signed a memorandum of understanding with Yayasan Cheshire Indonesia to boost economic empowerment for people with physical disabilities. The initiative includes providing Rp18 million in travel credit and offering a commission-free programme with BPJS employment protection for disabled driver-partners. This partnership aims to address the low labour participation rate and higher poverty levels among Indonesia's disabled population.

Expert: EU Unlikely to Welcome UK Back

A British politics expert suggests the European Union would probably not welcome a UK attempt to rejoin under new leadership. Andrew Roe-Crines of the University of Liverpool argues that Brussels views Britain as a difficult former partner and that pro-EU sentiment in the UK underestimates the bloc's reluctance. The comments come amid political uncertainty in Britain following Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation as Labour Party leader.

WIKA Wins Four Indonesia Sustainability Awards 2026, Strengthens ESG Commitment

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) has secured four accolades at the Indonesia Sustainability Award 2026, underscoring its dedication to environmental, social, and governance principles. The awards recognise the company's leadership in sustainable infrastructure, innovation, and corporate transformation. WIKA views the recognition as a mandate to further embed ESG into its business strategy and operations.

Maluku Police Provide Health Services and Social Aid to 3,835 Residents

The Maluku Regional Police delivered free healthcare and food aid to 3,835 residents as part of the 80th Police Day commemorations. The initiative included general check-ups, specialist consultations, and the distribution of 500 rice packages, highlighting the strong public demand for accessible medical services. The police chief reaffirmed the force's commitment to humanist and inclusive public service.

After Rejection by AGO, Former BGN Official Sony Sonjaya Seeks Justice Collaborator Status from LPSK

Sony Sonjaya, former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), has applied to the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) for justice collaborator status after his initial request was denied by the Attorney General's Office (AGO). The application relates to an alleged corruption case involving the management of the free nutritious meals programme for 2025-2026. The AGO previously rejected his request, stating he was a main perpetrator in the scheme and had not admitted to his actions.

Ministry of Law Delivers Noken Cenderawasih Creation Certificate to Jayawijaya Government

The Ministry of Law's Papua office has handed over a creation certificate for the Noken Cenderawasih handicraft to the Jayawijaya Regency administration. The certificate provides legal protection for the traditional woven product and is a step towards securing a geographical indication for the region's unique crafts. Jayawijaya is reportedly leading Papua in obtaining intellectual property certificates, with products like Arabica coffee and honey also receiving recognition.

With Fares from Rp2,000 to Rp5,000, KA Siliwangi Serves 680,541 Passengers in Jan–May 2026

State-owned railway operator KAI reported a 5.75 per cent year-on-year increase in passengers on the local economy train KA Siliwangi, serving 680,541 customers between January and May 2026. The service, connecting Sukabumi and Cipatat, offers ultra-low fares and supports daily mobility for students, traders, and families. KAI highlighted the train's role in providing affordable, safe travel during the school holiday period while stimulating small businesses around stations.

Pioneer of Modern Muslim Cemeteries Continues to Innovate for Indonesian Families

Al Azhar Memorial Garden (AMG) has spent 15 years pioneering modern, sharia-compliant Muslim burial services in Indonesia, integrating professional management with Islamic values. The company plans to expand its services to other cities and provinces to meet the growing demand for well-organised memorial parks, particularly in the Jabodetabek area. Since 2011, AMG has developed 25 hectares of land in Karawang, West Java, with over 80 percent of plots already sold.

UI Anthropologist: Police Involvement in Food Security is Acceleration, Not Intervention

A University of Indonesia anthropology professor has defended the National Police's role in food security programmes, arguing it represents an acceleration of agricultural development rather than state overreach. He contends that food security is now a legitimate dimension of national security, and the police's involvement can help transform rural economies beyond basic rice production. The academic suggests the force can motivate villages to cultivate higher-value commodities to boost farmer welfare.

Three NTB Council Members Deny 'Ghost Money' Allegations in Court

Three members of the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional House of Representatives have denied allegations of distributing illicit funds to fellow legislators. The defendants, Hamdan Kasim, Indra Jaya Usman, and Muhammad Nashib Ikroman, refuted the charges during a corruption court hearing in Mataram. The case involves alleged gratuities linked to a Rp 76 billion governor's directive programme for newly elected council members.

Minister PKP confirms 40-year subsidised mortgage tenor agreed and ready for implementation

Indonesia's Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait announced that the Tapera Committee has approved a 40-year tenor for subsidised mortgages, following President Prabowo's directive to make home financing more accessible. The government also decided to maintain a 5% interest rate for landed subsidised houses and set a 6% rate for subsidised flats, while preparing a quota of 350,000 subsidised housing units.

B50 Era: From energy security to Indonesia's new position on the world stage

Indonesia will mandate the use of B50 biodiesel, a 50 percent palm oil blend, from July 2026, positioning the country as a global leader in high-level biodiesel adoption. The policy is projected to save up to Rp157.28 trillion in foreign exchange by slashing fossil diesel imports and bolstering domestic palm oil absorption. This strategic shift aims to strengthen national energy security while reducing trade balance pressures amid global oil price volatility.

Yogyakarta Prosecutor's Office Forms Joint Team to Handle Daycare Child Abuse Case

The Yogyakarta District Prosecutor's Office has assembled a joint team of senior prosecutors to handle the child abuse case at Little Aresha Daycare, involving 13 suspects. The team is coordinating with police and the local child protection commission to prioritise the psychological recovery of the victims. The case file will soon be submitted to the Yogyakarta District Court to ensure legal certainty for both victims and suspects.

Beyond Academic Excellence: Character-Building Deemed Crucial for Children's Future Readiness

An Indonesian primary school headmaster has stressed that character education, encompassing moral values and social responsibility, is as vital as academic achievement in preparing children for a complex digital era. The remarks were made during a graduation ceremony for 102 students, which featured an AI-generated video visualising pupils' future aspirations. The school aims to produce graduates who excel in knowledge, possess strong Islamic values, and are ready to contribute positively to society.