Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,678 articles

AGO Awaits BPKP Audit to Investigate Palm Oil Exporters for Price Manipulation

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office is investigating palm oil companies suspected of under-invoicing exports, awaiting a state loss calculation from the BPKP audit agency. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa previously reported that a random sample of 10 major exporters all engaged in the practice, with estimated losses from the sample alone reaching USD 84 million.

BNPT Bolsters Security Preparedness for Power Plants in Riau Islands

Indonesia's National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) is enhancing security measures for power generation facilities in the Riau Islands to protect the public from energy disruptions. The initiative includes comprehensive assessments of personnel and infrastructure, with over 26 PLN units already evaluated under national security regulations. The move aims to safeguard critical national assets from evolving threats, including those in the digital domain.

Fuel Prices Keep Rising, Trump Orders Investigation

US President Donald Trump has directed the Department of Justice to investigate major oil companies over persistently high petrol prices, accusing them of failing to pass on steep declines in crude oil costs to consumers. The move follows a recent drop in the national average petrol price below $4 per gallon for the first time since March, partly attributed to a US-Iran memorandum of understanding aimed at easing regional tensions.

PPKGBK Clears Hotel Sultan Assets Ahead of Building Demolition

The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) has begun emptying assets from the Hotel Sultan complex in Jakarta following a Central Jakarta District Court ruling. Movable property from four hotel towers and two apartment towers is being relocated to a warehouse complex in Cikarang, Bekasi, before the structures are demolished. The execution of the land marks a significant step in resolving the long-standing dispute over the prime Senayan site.

KPK to Auction Seized Assets from Noel Case: From Porsche Rims to Ducati

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is set to auction assets seized from former Deputy Manpower Minister Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan and ten other defendants convicted in a K3 certification extortion case. The auction, scheduled for International Anti-Corruption Day on 9 December 2026, includes luxury vehicles, jewellery, property, and high-end motorcycle parts such as Ducati rims and an Akrapovic exhaust. Proceeds from the sale of the hundreds of items will be used to recover state financial losses.

BRIN Research: Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens Cluster in Java, Yet to Reach Vulnerable Regions

Research by Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) reveals that the distribution of kitchens for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme is heavily concentrated in Java and western Indonesia, mirroring commercial business locations rather than targeting areas with high poverty and stunting rates. The study recommends the government fully fund kitchens in disadvantaged regions like eastern Indonesia, Papua, and NTT using the state budget, rather than relying on fluctuating corporate social responsibility schemes. BRIN also suggests developing mobile kitchen models tailored to the geography of remote and outermost regions.

UMJ Receives Three Decrees for New Study Programmes from Minister of Higher Education

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) has been granted three ministerial decrees to open new study programmes, including a Speech Therapy undergraduate programme, a Physical Education master's, and a Political Science doctorate. The approvals are seen as a strategic move to expand academic offerings and address societal needs, with the programmes expected to admit students in the upcoming odd semester.

Three Candidate Managers Die, Palace Says Village Cooperative Programme Will Continue

The Indonesian government has confirmed that the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme will proceed despite the deaths of three candidate managers during basic military training. A senior official stated that mitigation and evaluation efforts are underway, but the incident will not halt the programme. The three deceased were among 35,476 candidates undergoing 45 days of training for the cooperative initiative.

Police Chief guarantees security and comfort for investment in Aceh

Aceh's Police Chief has moved to reassure investors by guaranteeing security and comfort in the province, aiming to dispel negative perceptions amid the recent South Andaman gas discovery by Mubadala Energy. The statement was made during discussions on revising the development plan for the Andaman block, where the investor had raised concerns about onshore safety. The Aceh government is pushing for onshore gas processing at the Arun Special Economic Zone to maximise local economic benefits.

AMALI: State Must Help Finance Pesantren Education

The Indonesian Ma'had Aly Association (AMALI) is backing a judicial review of the Pesantren Law, arguing that ambiguous wording has allowed the state to shirk its obligation to fund pesantren education proportionally. They highlight discrimination against Ma'had Aly institutions, including lecturers' lack of access to certification and students' exclusion from national databases and financial aid programmes like KIP Kuliah.

BRIN Researcher Recommends Gradual, Data-Based Evaluation of Free Nutritious Meal Programme

A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has welcomed the government's openness to evaluating the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme but stressed that future improvements must be based on objective, measurable indicators rather than subjective labels. He also criticised the initial design for rushing towards universal coverage, suggesting a more targeted, phased approach would be more effective.

Aria Bima Says Commission II Has Comprehensive Data to Lead Election Bill Deliberations

Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian House's Commission II, Aria Bima, insists that the revision of the Election Law should remain under the purview of his commission's special committee, citing its possession of comprehensive data on past electoral violations. He argues that Commission II's direct partnership with election organisers and related ministries provides it with mature references to address priority issues such as court rulings and electoral thresholds. While acknowledging the potential benefit of a larger cross-commission committee for budgetary scrutiny, he believes this can be managed through internal party mechanisms.

Government Communication Body Denies Orchestrating Pro-Free Nutritious Meal Protests

Indonesia's Government Communication Body (Bakom) has refuted allegations that recent demonstrations supporting the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme were orchestrated by the state. The agency insists the government respects all public opinion, both for and against its policies, while confirming ongoing governance reforms under the new National Nutrition Agency leadership. Separately, the agency announced a temporary halt to incentives for meal service units during school holidays, projecting budget savings of approximately Rp3 trillion.

Revealed: Owner of Instagram and WhatsApp Secretly Develops Gambling-Style App

Meta Platforms is reportedly developing a standalone prediction market app codenamed 'Arena', similar to Polymarket and Kalshi, which allow users to wager on real-world events. Initially using a points-based system rather than real money, the project could eventually introduce cash betting, raising regulatory concerns in countries like Indonesia where gambling is strictly prohibited. The move is seen as a strategy to leverage Meta's 3.5 billion users for new growth amid slowing expansion on its core platforms.

Soekarno-Hatta Customs Thwarts Smuggling of 18 kg of Cannabis from US and Russia

Indonesian customs officials at Soekarno-Hatta Airport intercepted two separate shipments totalling over 18 kilograms of cannabis and hashish originating from the United States and Russia. The drugs, falsely declared as luggage, were destined for foreign nationals residing in Bali. Authorities are investigating potential links between the cases and a broader international narcotics network, with one Russian national already arrested in Bali and another added to a wanted list.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Promises Health Facility Evaluation After Jakarta International Marathon Death

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung expressed condolences after a participant died during the Jakarta International Marathon 2026, suspected from a heart attack and dehydration. He pledged a thorough evaluation of medical facilities and care for future events, while also highlighting the event's significant economic impact of over Rp255 billion for the capital.

IRSX Diversifies into Creative Design Sector, What Are the Prospects?

PT Folago Global Nusantara Tbk (IRSX) is expanding into creative design services through its subsidiary, with an independent study projecting a payback period of just 1 year and 8 months. The move aims to capitalise on Indonesia's growing digital advertising market, which reached USD3.64 billion in 2025, and diversify the company's revenue streams.

Pertamina AGM Approves 2025 Net Profit of Rp 55.20 Trillion

PT Pertamina's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders has approved the state-owned energy company's 2025 financial results, which include a net profit of US$3.35 billion. The company reported strong performance across upstream, downstream, and renewable energy sectors, maintaining oil and gas production above 1 million BOEPD. Pertamina also contributed Rp 360.76 trillion to the state through taxes, non-tax revenue, and dividends.

Crowd Erupts Chanting Cabinet Secretary Teddy's Name in Front of Prabowo

Thousands of residents in Gorontalo enthusiastically chanted the name of Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya during a national farmers' and fishermen's event attended by President Prabowo Subianto. The crowd's focus on the former presidential aide prompted a humorous reaction from Prabowo, who noted the reception was more befitting a president. The incident highlights the public profile and popularity of the military officer within the current administration.

Environment Minister Initiates Asia-Pacific Forum for Biodiversity Credits and Affirms Local Community Rights

Indonesia's Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat has launched the Asia-Pacific Roundtable on Biodiversity Credits during London Climate Action Week, positioning the country as a regional leader in high-integrity nature markets. He stressed that biodiversity credits must deliver equitable benefits to local and indigenous communities, not merely serve as financial instruments. The initiative is part of Indonesia's broader effort to design a progressive multi-credit scheme that economically values endemic species and habitat protection.

H5 Bird Flu Cases Detected Again, Australia Steps Up Surveillance

Australia has confirmed a new case of highly pathogenic H5 bird flu in a wild migratory bird in South Australia, bringing the total detected cases to three. The discovery has prompted authorities to heighten surveillance along the southern coastline to monitor the virus's spread. The latest case involves a giant petrel, following two earlier confirmed cases in Western Australia.

Prambanan Hospital Claims It Has Apologised to Family of Toddler Who Died After CT Scan

Prambanan Regional Hospital in Sleman, Yogyakarta, has stated it visited the family of a three-year-old girl who died following a CT scan and conveyed an apology for any miscommunication. The hospital's legal representative confirmed they are cooperating with an ongoing police investigation into alleged malpractice, which has so far questioned eight individuals including three doctors. The case was reported by the child's mother in May 2026 and remains under preliminary investigation.

Flood-Prone Candigara River in Klungkung Begins Dredging

Authorities in Klungkung, Bali, have commenced dredging the Candigara River to mitigate flooding caused by siltation. The phased normalisation project, targeted for completion within 60 working days, aims to protect residential areas and farmland. Local officials also plan to redevelop the riverbanks into public spaces to support micro-enterprises.

From 2027, Honorary Madrasah Teachers Projected to Receive Rp1 Million Monthly Incentive

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission VIII has approved an additional Rp4.6 trillion budget allocation for the Ministry of Religious Affairs in the 2027 indicative ceiling. The funds are earmarked to provide a monthly incentive of Rp1 million for honorary teachers at madrasahs nationwide. The initiative aims to improve the welfare of these educators, with Central Java's deputy governor expressing strong support for its realisation.

Luhut on Free Nutritious Meals: Why All at Once? It Could Be Done Gradually

National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has suggested the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme should be implemented in phases rather than all at once, following an evaluation that identified teething problems. He acknowledged the rapid rollout caused some issues but remains optimistic the flagship programme will improve within six to twelve months. Luhut also highlighted the programme's significant economic impact, citing its role in income redistribution and stimulating regional economies.

Honorary Madrasah Teachers Projected to Receive Rp1 Million per Month in 2027

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII has approved an additional Rp4.6 trillion budget allocation for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, aimed at providing monthly honorariums of Rp1 million to honorary madrasah teachers starting in 2027. The initiative seeks to improve the welfare of non-civil servant educators, who constitute the majority of madrasah teaching staff. Officials in Central Java welcomed the plan while emphasising the need for accurate data synchronisation to ensure the funds are distributed effectively.

AI and Automation Technology Drives Transformation in Textile and Garment Industry

The Indonesian textile and garment industry is embracing digital transformation to boost competitiveness, with China's Jack Technology launching the AI-powered SmartLink Master solution. The sector attracted Rp20.23 trillion in investment and employed 3.96 million workers, while the domestic textile manufacturing market is projected to grow from US$42 billion in 2025 to US$64.2 billion by 2034. This shift towards integrated smart manufacturing aims to enhance productivity and responsiveness to market changes.

Sony Sonjaya's Justice Collaborator Request Under LPSK Verification

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is currently verifying a justice collaborator application submitted by former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency, Sony Sonjaya, in connection with an alleged corruption case involving the free nutritious meal programme. The application was filed after the Attorney General's Office rejected his initial request, deeming him a main suspect who had not admitted guilt. LPSK has 30 working days to review the application once it is declared complete.

Running for Health or Lifestyle? A Sociological Perspective

The rise of 'kalcer' runners in Indonesia reflects a shift from running as a health activity to a social media performance driven by consumerism and FOMO. Sociologist Karl Marx's concept of alienation helps explain how runners become estranged from the authentic purpose of exercise, prioritising digital validation over personal wellbeing. The article argues that education must foster critical literacy to help young people distinguish between intrinsic health needs and the pursuit of social recognition.

Lebanon: Negotiations with Israel separate from US-Iran talks

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has confirmed that ongoing negotiations with Israel in Washington are proceeding independently of parallel US-Iran discussions in Switzerland. The talks aim to consolidate a ceasefire in southern Lebanon, secure an Israeli troop withdrawal, and facilitate the return of displaced residents and reconstruction. Aoun stated the discussions are intended to establish a clear framework leading to a lasting peace.

AHY: Reconstruction of Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo reaches 50 percent

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has confirmed that the reconstruction of the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, is now more than 50 percent complete. The project, costing approximately Rp122 billion, focuses on integrated dormitories, a four-storey mosque, and educational facilities designed to modern safety standards. The minister expects the work to be finished within the coming months as part of a broader government push that includes renovating around 1,400 madrasahs nationwide with a budget of roughly Rp4 trillion.

Fellow Debt Collector Colleague Urged Taufik to Surrender After Being Named Suspect in Yuvita Torture Case

Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in the severe abuse and confinement of his girlfriend, was arrested after heeding the advice of a former colleague. Dadang Ahyar Ismail, who worked with Taufik as a debt collector, persuaded him to stop fleeing and surrender to the police. The suspect was subsequently picked up at Dadang's residence in Bandung and handed over to the authorities.

Participant in Jakarta's 'Fishermen's Village' Basic Military Training Dies

A participant in Indonesia's SPPI Fishermen's Village programme, Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, died during basic military training in East Jakarta, with medical reports indicating tuberculosis. The Ministry of Defence expressed condolences and pledged to strengthen health supervision, while a parliamentary commission member called for a reduction in militaristic training in favour of cooperative management skills.

Mosque Cleaning Duty Integral to Character Building for Gontor Students

At Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor, daily mosque cleaning duty is framed as a key component of the institution's holistic education philosophy. The practice is designed to instil a sense of responsibility and sincere devotion in students, extending character formation beyond the classroom. The activity underscores the pesantren's approach that all daily experiences contribute to shaping future community-oriented leaders.

Three Prospective Cooperative Managers Die During Military Training

The number of prospective managers for the government's flagship village and fishermen's cooperatives who have died during basic military training has risen to three. The latest victim, Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, passed away after falling ill during a programme run by the Indonesian Air Force. The Ministry of Defence has expressed condolences and stated it is evaluating health supervision protocols to ensure participant safety remains the top priority.

Civil Coalition Criticises Military Training After Two Kopdes SPPI Deaths

A civil society coalition has condemned the use of military training for participants in the government's Kopdes Merah Putih programme following the deaths of two trainees. The coalition argues the militaristic approach is inappropriate for a civilian cooperative initiative and violates the TNI Law. The government has stated the programme will continue despite the fatalities, promising a separate investigation and mitigation measures.

Strengthening MSMEs Becomes Pillar of National Economic Stability Amid Global Pressures

Economist Syarifuddin Nasution has highlighted the strategic role of Indonesia's 65.5 million micro, small, and medium enterprises in safeguarding the national economy against ongoing global uncertainties. The sector, which contributes over 60 percent to GDP and employs 119 million people, is considered more adaptive due to its reliance on domestic markets and local resources. He called for sustained collaboration between government, business, and academia to enhance financing, digitalisation, and market access for MSMEs.

BSPD 2026 Brings Together Startups and Investors

Bandung Startup Pitching Day 2026 connected 21 Indonesian startups with 15 investors and venture capital firms to foster collaboration and funding. The event, held at SBM ITB, highlighted the role of universities in translating research into market-ready solutions. Awards were given for innovation, pitching, impact, and marketability, underscoring the strength of the national innovation ecosystem.

Prabowo Opens Public Voting for 81st Indonesian Independence Day Logo

President Prabowo Subianto has decided that the official logo for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day will be chosen directly by the public through an online vote. Five finalist designs, curated from 124 submissions, will be open for voting from 24 to 28 June, marking a departure from the previous practice of presidential selection. The initiative aims to broaden public participation in shaping the visual identity of the national commemoration.

BRI Life Supports Ministry of SMEs in Promoting Protection Education via UMKM Fun Run 5K

BRI Life participated in the UMKM Fun Run 5K event in Jakarta to support the Ministry of SMEs' campaign for financial literacy and protection. The insurer provided on-site consultations and promoted digital products like MODI to raise awareness about the importance of life insurance among entrepreneurs and the public. This initiative aligns with BRI Life's commitment to strengthening the national SME ecosystem and promoting healthy lifestyles.

Mayor Fadly Amran Shares Hydrometeorological Disaster Management Tips at GSDC 2026

Padang Mayor Fadly Amran presented the city's four-stage disaster management strategy at the Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026, emphasising collaboration and science-based policy. He highlighted a budget allocation of Rp 371.85 billion for hydrometeorological disaster response. Academics from City University of Hong Kong also noted the unprecedented nature of recent tropical cyclones in Southeast Asia and the importance of pre-disaster data trends.

Forging the Soul of a Nation's Servant Behind the Stethoscope

An academic argues that Citizenship Education (PKN) is a crucial, often underestimated component of medical training in Indonesia. The course instils Pancasila values, shaping doctors into ethical practitioners who uphold human dignity, champion social justice in healthcare, and contribute to national resilience. Without this civic foundation, future physicians risk becoming mere medical technicians devoid of ethical direction.

Loss of Empathy and Drive for Power Can Trigger Torture, Says Psychologist

A psychologist warns that a pathological need for control and a diminished capacity for empathy are key psychological drivers behind acts of torture and false imprisonment. The statement comes amid public attention on a recent high-profile kidnapping and abuse case in Bandung, West Java.

UMJ Strengthens International Networks at Global Sustainable Development Congress

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) participated in the Global Sustainable Development Congress in Tangerang to boost its global reputation and forge international partnerships. The university joined 28 other Muhammadiyah higher education institutions at the Times Higher Education event, aiming to secure at least 100 strategic partners. UMJ also introduced its Global Reputation Partner (MR-Go) programme, showcasing academic and innovation excellence.

The Copenhagen Fake Research Scandal: A Mirror of Indonesia's Fragile Academic Ecosystem

A fraudulent research paper presented at a Copenhagen conference, allegedly fabricated using artificial intelligence, has exposed deep flaws in Indonesia's academic incentive systems. The scandal, uncovered by two Indonesian researchers, highlights how travel grant schemes can be exploited due to a lack of data validation. The incident calls for systemic reforms in conference checks, institutional incentives, and the cultivation of genuine research integrity.

Can LGBT Individuals Be Criminalised in Indonesia? A Law Professor Explains

University of Indonesia law professor Heru Susetyo explains that under Indonesia's positive law, individuals cannot be criminalised solely for their LGBT status unless they commit a specific crime. Exceptions exist in Aceh under Sharia law, and while campaigns may be halted, criminalising LGBT behaviour nationally would require legislative changes and could provoke international backlash.

Russia Claims Nuclear Weapons Are the Sole Deterrent Preventing World War

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that nuclear deterrence is the only remaining mechanism preventing a global conflict, as international security conditions continue to erode. He warned that emerging non-nuclear weapons could eventually match the destructive power of nuclear arms. The remarks were made amid heightened geopolitical tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.

LPSK Verifies Justice Collaborator Request from Former Deputy Head of BGN Sonny Sonjaya

Indonesia's Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) is verifying a justice collaborator application from Sonny Sonjaya, the former deputy head of the National Nutrition Body, related to alleged corruption in the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The Attorney General's Office previously rejected his request, deeming him a main perpetrator who had not fully admitted his actions. LPSK has 30 working days to review the application once documents are declared complete.

Palace Speaks Out on Fate of Hotel Sultan Employees

The Indonesian government has confirmed that data collection and verification of Hotel Sultan employees is underway as the area's evacuation proceeds. The process aims to map workers' statuses before deciding on a future empowerment scheme, with the Gelora Bung Karno management tasked to facilitate their re-employment. President Prabowo Subianto has also requested the Danantara investment authority to design a masterplan for the wider GBK complex, leaving the hotel's ultimate fate undecided.

KAI North Sumatra Urges Public to Stay Away from Railway Tracks

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's North Sumatra division has issued a stern warning to the public against any activity on railway tracks, citing the high risk of fatal accidents. Over the past three years, 114 incidents of people being struck by trains have been recorded, with 64% resulting in death. The company emphasises that trespassing on railway lines is a criminal offence under Indonesian law.