Archive: 24 June 2026
Showing 351-400 of 1,678 articles
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:20 WIB
New Online Scam Hubs Emerge Near Indonesia After Cambodia Crackdown
Following a major crackdown on online scam compounds in Cambodia, organised cybercrime syndicates are relocating their operations to Sri Lanka, exploiting visa-free travel, robust telecom infrastructure, and informal money transfer systems. Sri Lankan authorities have responded by forming a new cybercrime unit and arresting over 1,000 suspects, but face challenges due to the misuse of tourist visas and the syndicates' ability to fragment into smaller, harder-to-track cells.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:19 WIB
BRIN Researcher Proposes Four Strategic Steps to Strengthen Free Nutritious Meal Programme
A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has outlined four strategic measures to improve the implementation of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The recommendations focus on full transparency in budgeting and procurement, strengthening leadership integrity, tightening regulations to prevent moral hazard, and involving independent auditors and the public in oversight. The proposals aim to ensure the multi-trillion rupiah programme runs optimally and maintains public trust.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:19 WIB
National Internship Programme Helps Participants Secure Permanent Jobs, Says Bakom RI
Indonesia's Government Communication Agency (Bakom RI) reports that the National Internship Programme has yielded positive results, with over 5,000 participants receiving direct job offers from their host companies. Evaluations also indicate significant improvements in participants' technical and soft skills, demonstrating the programme's effectiveness in bridging education and employment.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:19 WIB
Transforming Business Collaboration through an Integrated Work Ecosystem
Indonesian companies are adopting numerous digital tools but still face fragmented communication and slow decision-making. Lark, an all-in-one collaboration platform, aims to address this by integrating chat, documents, and workflows into a single ecosystem. The solution will be showcased at B2B Expo Asia Indonesia 2026 by Virtuenet by Prasetia to help businesses build more transparent and efficient operations.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:18 WIB
Government-Backed 'SMA Unggul Garuda' Programme Sees 150% Surge in Students Entering Top 100 Global Universities
The Indonesian government's 'SMA Unggul Garuda Transformasi' programme has yielded a dramatic 150% increase in students accepted into the world's top 100 universities within a single year. The number of successful applicants from 12 pioneer schools rose from 132 in 2025 to 330 in 2026 following targeted enrichment and capacity-building initiatives. The government plans to expand the programme to 42 schools in 2026, with a target of 80 by 2029.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:18 WIB
BRIN: MBG Programme Evaluation a Momentum for System Overhaul
Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has urged the government to use the evaluation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme as a catalyst for comprehensive public policy reform. A researcher highlighted that recent corruption cases and implementation flaws reveal systemic planning weaknesses that must be addressed. The call emphasises mapping conflicts of interest across all implementing actors to prevent future failures in the massive nationwide initiative.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:17 WIB
Bantul Man Steals Neighbour's Phone to Swindle Rp20 Million
A 27-year-old man in Bantul, Yogyakarta, stole his neighbour's smartphone and used it to impersonate the victim, tricking a friend into transferring Rp20 million under the pretence of a truck collateral. The victim was forced to reimburse the deceived friend to prevent his truck from being seized, and police have since arrested the suspect.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:17 WIB
Dozens of Shipwrecks Litter Karangantu Estuary, Nearly Submerged
Approximately 80 abandoned and decaying wooden shipwrecks are clogging the Karangantu estuary in Serang, Banten, severely narrowing navigation channels and hindering local fishermen. Banten Governor Andra Soni has inspected the site and announced a joint cleanup operation with the regional river authority to remove the wrecks and dredge an estimated 190,000 cubic metres of sediment. The project is expected to take several months, during which the governor has apologised in advance for disruptions to fishing activities.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:16 WIB
Indonesia Guarantees Indigenous Peoples' Veto Rights in Biodiversity Credit Scheme
Indonesia has unveiled a blueprint for a national biodiversity credit market that grants indigenous communities veto power and positions them as primary beneficiaries. The Environment Minister stressed the scheme will not be purely capitalistic, ensuring fair benefits for local guardians of the forest. The framework includes legal shields against exploitation and a multi-credit system that values the protection of endemic species like tigers and orangutans.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:14 WIB
Russia: Only Nuclear Weapons Prevent Global War
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that nuclear deterrence is the sole mechanism preventing a global conflict, warning that international security conditions have significantly eroded. Speaking at the Primakov Readings forum, he noted the rising potential for regional conflicts and the absence of effective negotiation mechanisms for security issues. Peskov also cautioned that emerging non-nuclear weapons could eventually rival the destructive power of nuclear arms.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:14 WIB
President Prabowo lets public choose Indonesia's 81st anniversary logo
President Prabowo has decided to let the Indonesian public vote for the official logo of the country's 81st Independence Day anniversary, breaking from the tradition of presidential selection. The Creative Economy Ministry shortlisted five designs from 124 submissions, with online voting open from June 24 to 28. The initiative aims to boost public participation in shaping the visual identity of the national commemoration.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:12 WIB
Bareskrim Polri Transfers Drug Lord Koko Erwin Case to Bima District Attorney
Indonesia's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has handed over the case of suspected drug lord Erwin Iskandar, alias Koko Erwin, to the Bima District Attorney's Office in West Nusa Tenggara. The transfer includes a second suspect, Akhsan Al Fadhil, who allegedly acted as a courier. The case is linked to a broader investigation involving a Rp1 billion bribe allegedly paid to a former Bima police chief.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:12 WIB
Russia open to discussions with ASEAN on aligning digital transactions
Russia has expressed willingness to engage with ASEAN member states to harmonise digital transaction and economic systems. Ambassador Evgeny Zagaynov acknowledged that achieving the ambitious $100 billion trade target will take time due to geopolitical constraints and illegal financial restrictions. Both sides are exploring alternative financial schemes and the use of national currencies to mitigate global fiscal pressures and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:12 WIB
OJK: Impact of Exchange Rate Weakening on Rural Banks Relatively Limited
Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) assesses that the direct impact of the rupiah's depreciation on Rural Banks (BPR) is limited due to their domestic currency operations. However, the regulator warns of indirect effects, such as reduced repayment capacity among MSME debtors reliant on imported materials. The OJK is urging BPRs to strengthen resilience and enhance monitoring of borrowers sensitive to exchange rate fluctuations.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:12 WIB
House Member Urges Police to Investigate Other Parties in Bandung Confinement Case
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called on the police to broaden their investigation into the confinement and abuse of a woman in Bandung, which allegedly lasted for three years. The lawmaker stressed that other individuals who may have known about, permitted, or assisted in the crime must be identified and prosecuted. He also urged the state to prioritise the victim's medical and psychological recovery alongside delivering the maximum penalty to the perpetrators.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:12 WIB
After Rejection by Attorney General's Office, Sony Sonjaya Seeks Justice Collaborator Status from LPSK
Sony Sonjaya, a suspect in the alleged corruption of Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals programme, has applied for justice collaborator status and protection from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) after the Attorney General's Office rejected his initial request. His legal team claims he is prepared to testify against 41 influential figures and provide evidence of transactional practices in the programme's implementation. The Attorney General's Office maintains that Sonjaya is a principal perpetrator, not a secondary actor, and therefore does not meet the legal requirements for justice collaborator status.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:11 WIB
Attorney General Reveals How Benny Tjokro Cunningly Shielded Assets from Auction
Indonesia's Attorney General has disclosed how convicted fraudster Benny Tjokro strategically encumbered his assets with massive debts to thwart state seizure. The former Jiwasraya and Asabri convict placed high-value liens on properties, including a building now used as a prosecutor's office, causing repeated auction failures. Authorities are now investigating whether these bank guarantees were legitimate transactions or a deliberate ploy to protect illicit wealth.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:11 WIB
East Aceh Regency Government Rebuilds Flood-Damaged Schools
The East Aceh Regency administration has commenced the reconstruction of schools devastated by hydrometeorological flooding in late November 2025. The initiative, supported by the Kompas Humanitarian Fund Foundation, aims to restore educational facilities and foster hope for the region's youth. The project is part of a broader post-disaster recovery effort, with Aceh being the first of three affected Sumatran provinces to receive such assistance.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:10 WIB
Health Minister Reveals 80% of Indonesia's Pharmaceutical Raw Materials Still Imported, Offers Solutions
Indonesia's Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin disclosed that 70-80% of the nation's active pharmaceutical ingredients are still imported, though this marks an improvement from over 90% previously. The government is pursuing a downstreaming strategy to boost domestic production of raw materials and plasma derivatives. A new Rp 3-4 trillion blood plasma processing plant in Karawang, set to operate by early 2027, aims to reduce import reliance and strengthen national health resilience.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:10 WIB
Psychologist: The Need to Control Others Can Trigger Confinement
A psychologist has stated that a deep-seated need for control and power, often stemming from feelings of powerlessness, can drive individuals to commit acts of confinement and abuse. The perpetrator may view the victim as a symbol of past tormentors, using them as an outlet for years of accumulated rage. The comments were made in response to a recent publicised case of alleged confinement and assault of a woman in Bandung Regency.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:10 WIB
Salatiga Toll Gate Construction Reaches 13.2 Percent Completion
Physical construction of the new Salatiga Toll Gate on the Semarang-Solo Toll Road in Central Java has reached 13.2 percent since commencing in April 2026. The project, managed by PT Trans Marga Jateng, is targeted for completion by January 2027 at a cost of approximately Rp113 billion. The new access point is expected to boost local economic growth, education, tourism, and social connectivity in the Salatiga region.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:08 WIB
Government Communications Chief Qodari Mourns Father, Recalls a Brave and Sociable Figure
Muhammad Qodari, Head of the Government Communications Body (Bakom), has paid tribute to his late father Sulaiman Said, remembering him as a man of simple courage and high integrity. Said's willingness to migrate to an unfamiliar region for work taught Qodari the value of living harmoniously across different ethnic and religious groups. The loss was also acknowledged by Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait, who offered his condolences to the family.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:08 WIB
Police Present Evidence in Bandung Abuse and Confinement Case
West Java Regional Police have presented evidence related to a severe abuse and confinement case in Bandung. Authorities are conducting detailed examinations and have established a special task force to identify potential additional victims of the suspect, Taufik Hidayat. A dedicated call centre has also been opened to receive further reports from the public.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:08 WIB
Yusril Asks Ombudsman to Oversee 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives, Ready to Receive Public Complaints
Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has requested the Indonesian Ombudsman to actively monitor the implementation of the government's 'Red and White' Village and Fishermen Cooperatives programme. He affirmed the Ombudsman can receive and investigate public complaints regarding potential maladministration. Yusril acknowledged the oversight task is challenging due to the programme's broad scope and the Ombudsman's limited resources, but stressed its importance for good governance.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:07 WIB
Research Reveals Indonesia's PE/VC Investment Opportunity Index at 0.57
A new study places Indonesia's private equity and venture capital opportunity index at 0.57, positioning it in the lower-middle range among Asia-Pacific nations. The score reflects more restrained investor expectations rather than a lack of potential, with opportunities remaining in financial inclusion, healthcare, logistics, and energy transition. However, challenges such as fragmented ownership structures and non-standardised financial reporting among mid-sized firms remain key concerns for investors.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:06 WIB
Ijarah Contract: A Relevant Financing and Leasing Solution for Today
The Islamic financing contract known as ijarah, which governs leasing and wage-based transactions, is increasingly applied in modern sectors such as banking, education, and healthcare. It offers a Sharia-compliant alternative by allowing the use of assets without outright ownership, ensuring cost transparency and avoiding interest. Despite its benefits, the growth of digitalisation and public awareness remain key challenges for its future development.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:06 WIB
Rejection of JC Sonny Must Not Halt Investigation of Other Actors in MBG Corruption Case, Says Expert
An anti-corruption researcher has warned that the denial of suspect Sonny Sanjaya's justice collaborator status should not impede the investigation into other potential actors in the alleged corruption of Indonesia's multitrillion-rupiah Free Nutritious Meals programme. Herdiansyah Hamzah from Mulawarman University stressed that prosecutors possess other legal instruments to uncover the full scope of the scheme. He argued that given the programme's massive budget, it is implausible that only the currently named suspects were involved, urging the Attorney General's Office to pursue higher-authority decision-makers.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:05 WIB
KPK Hands Over IDR 153 Billion in Seized Assets to TASPEN
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred an additional IDR 153 billion in seized assets to state-owned insurer PT TASPEN, bringing the total returned to IDR 1 trillion. The funds, confiscated from a fictitious investment case involving a former TASPEN director, will be managed to support the welfare of retired civil servants.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:05 WIB
KAI Upgrades Facilities as LRT Jabodebek Ridership Surges 23%
State-owned railway operator KAI is upgrading facilities across its LRT Jabodebek network following a significant 23% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers, reaching 13.21 million in the first five months of 2026. Improvements include enhanced lighting, air conditioning, and lift and escalator refurbishments at key stations. The company emphasised that safety remains the foundation of all maintenance and enhancement programmes to support the growing demand for integrated urban transport.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:05 WIB
Overcoming Elderly Dependency Through Education and Community Empowerment
A seminar in Jakarta highlighted the potential for retirees to remain productive and independent through entrepreneurship and community engagement. Organised by Universitas Kristen Indonesia, the event emphasised that retirement can be a new beginning, with economic activity and health maintenance serving as key pillars for a meaningful post-career life. The initiative reflects a broader push to empower the elderly by strengthening individual capacity rather than focusing solely on welfare.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:04 WIB
FAO ranks Indonesia world's fourth-largest rice producer
Indonesia has been ranked the world's fourth-largest rice producer by the FAO, with output reaching 38 million tons, according to Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman. The achievement highlights increased national food production despite climate challenges and global supply uncertainties. The government is also expanding downstream agricultural programmes for cocoa, coconut, and sugarcane across 870,000 hectares to boost productivity and employment.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:04 WIB
Pertamina Posts Rp 55.20 Trillion Net Profit in 2025
Indonesian state energy firm Pertamina reported a net profit of US$3.35 billion (Rp 55.20 trillion) for the 2025 fiscal year, underpinned by strong performance across its energy business lines. The company also contributed Rp 360.76 trillion to the state through taxes, non-tax revenue, and dividends, while advancing its energy transition and decarbonisation efforts.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:04 WIB
Government Continues Removal of Assets from Former Hotel Sultan, Demolition Planned
The Indonesian government is proceeding with the removal of approximately 17,000 cubic metres of assets from the former Hotel Sultan in Jakarta, following a court-ordered eviction. The items are being stored in two warehouses for six months, while the head of the Danantara Investment Authority has indicated the building will eventually be demolished to make way for a new national landmark.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:03 WIB
Community-Based Solar Power Development Requires Large Funding
Mosaic, a Muslim-led climate action group, has highlighted that developing community-based solar power plants (PLTS) in Indonesia requires substantial funding and broad support to meet the 2060 net-zero emissions target. The organisation is exploring Islamic financing instruments as a potential solution to overcome high initial investment costs and limited community access to solar technology.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:03 WIB
Layoffs Surge in 2026, Heavy Pressure Mounts on the Real Sector
Indonesia's manufacturing heartland is experiencing a sharp rise in layoffs, with over 23,000 workers dismissed in the first five months of 2026. Analysts attribute the trend to weakened purchasing power, high interest rates, and rising production costs driven by a depreciating rupiah. The government is being urged to intervene with production incentives and import protections to prevent a negative cycle of falling consumption and further job losses.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:01 WIB
Trump Furious After Senate Backs Resolution Limiting War Powers Against Iran
US President Donald Trump has reacted angrily after the Senate approved a symbolic resolution seeking to curtail his authority to conduct military operations against Iran. The bipartisan vote, which saw four Republican senators break ranks, reflects growing Congressional unease over the administration's Iran policy. Trump denounced the move as ill-timed and claimed it undermines his efforts to pressure Tehran.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:00 WIB
1,000 Military Cadets to Mentor Students at 'Sekolah Rakyat' in Character-Building Programme
The Ministry of Social Affairs and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) are collaborating to deploy approximately 1,000 military academy cadets to provide character and discipline training at 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools). The initiative, which aligns with a presidential instruction, will see groups of five cadets assigned to each school to teach practical life skills such as tidiness and uniform care. The programme is scheduled to commence in early August 2026 across 178 school locations.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 19:00 WIB
Rice Traders Unfazed by El Niño, Ample Stockpiles, but Worried About This Instead
Indonesian rice traders are confident that massive government stockpiles of over 5 million tonnes will shield the country from global supply disruptions caused by El Niño. However, their primary concern has shifted to weakening consumer purchasing power, which is dampening market sales.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
Wali Kota Makassar Promosikan Stadion Untia ke 28 Negara
Wali Kota Makassar Munafri Arifuddin mempromosikan proyek pembangunan Stadion Untia sebagai pusat sport tourism dan penggerak ekonomi baru di Indonesia Timur dalam forum bisnis internasional. Proyek di atas lahan 23 hektare ini dirancang tidak hanya sebagai arena sepak bola berstandar internasional, tetapi juga kawasan komersial dan hiburan terpadu. Pemerintah kota menawarkan peluang investasi ini kepada delegasi dari 28 negara dengan harapan dapat menciptakan lapangan kerja dan memperkuat posisi Makassar sebagai kota metropolitan.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Partners with LPSK to Follow Up Violence Case in Bandung
The Indonesian Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KPPPA) is collaborating with the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to ensure comprehensive support for a female victim of severe domestic violence in Bandung, West Java. The victim, identified as YTR, suffered serious injuries including blindness, torn lips, and mobility issues following an assault by her boyfriend. Authorities are coordinating to provide legal protection, medical assistance, and ensure the victim's rights are upheld throughout the judicial process.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
BNPB After Major Central Sulawesi Quake: 1,349 Aftershocks, 2,533 Damaged Houses
Following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake in Central Sulawesi, the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has recorded 1,349 aftershocks and significant structural damage. Over 2,500 homes have been affected, alongside places of worship, schools, and government buildings, while the Sigi Regency remains under a 14-day emergency status. Medical services continue in emergency tents as authorities assess building safety and prepare for rehabilitation efforts.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
Downstream Investment Reaches Rp147 Trillion, Dominated by This Sector!
Indonesia's downstream investment reached Rp147 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, marking an 8.2% year-on-year increase. The mineral sector, including coal, gas, and oil, was the primary contributor, while the government is also pushing to expand downstream processing into fisheries, maritime, and green energy. The programme now accounts for nearly 30% of total investment realisation and is aimed at boosting economic growth, employment, and national self-sufficiency.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:59 WIB
Local Government Deploys Five Sea Ambulances to Serve Thousand Islands Residents
The Thousand Islands Regency Health Sub-department has stationed five sea ambulances to provide emergency medical services for residents across the archipelago. The vessels, operated by various local health agencies, are positioned on key islands to ensure rapid response and patient referrals. This initiative aims to improve healthcare accessibility in the geographically challenging island region.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:58 WIB
Home Affairs Minister Attends XVII National Farmers and Fishermen's Week in Gorontalo
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian joined President Prabowo Subianto at the XVII National Farmers and Fishermen's Week in Gorontalo, which drew around 50,000 participants. The event focused on technological transformation to support national food self-sufficiency. President Prabowo highlighted the historic bond between the military and Indonesia's farming and fishing communities.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:57 WIB
Juanda Customs Office Raid Uncovers Alleged Scheme to Sell Refurbished Phones as New
Indonesian police have raided the Juanda Customs Office in East Java as part of an investigation into the alleged illegal import of refurbished mobile phones from China. Investigators suspect importers colluded with customs officials to misdeclare goods and avoid duties, allowing used phones to be sold as new in the domestic market. The scheme is believed to have caused state financial losses through customs fraud and broader economic harm.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:57 WIB
Pekanbaru Mayor Guarantees No Child Will Drop Out of School in the City
Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho has pledged that no child in the city will be forced to drop out of school, promising the municipal government will find solutions to re-enrol those who have left education. He also highlighted plans to coordinate with neighbouring Kampar Regency to address enrolment difficulties for residents living in border areas. The administration will conduct a post-enrolment audit to identify and assist children who failed to secure school places.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:56 WIB
Qatar Describes Proposed Rp5.3 Quadrillion Iran Reconstruction Fund as Aspirational
Qatar's Prime Minister has characterised a proposed $300 billion investment fund for Iran's reconstruction as an aspirational figure. The fund is contingent upon Iran reaching a final agreement with the United States, with Gulf states potentially playing a role in financing. The initiative is part of broader efforts to establish a regional security framework and future economic cooperation.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:56 WIB
Tito Highlights Home Renovation Programme for Low-Income Families as Proof of Prabowo's Care for the Common People
Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has stated that the expansion of the government's home renovation programme for low-income families demonstrates President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to the poor. During a visit to Gorontalo, he linked the provision of decent housing directly to poverty reduction efforts. The government is also strengthening land certification to provide legal certainty for beneficiaries.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:55 WIB
Bali expands connectivity to Canberra with new Virgin Australia route
Virgin Australia has launched a direct flight service between Canberra and Denpasar, Bali, marking the reactivation of the route. The new connection is expected to boost tourism and economic ties between Indonesia and Australia. Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport now serves 12 direct routes from Australia, the highest number from any single country.
Wed, 24 Jun 2026, 18:53 WIB
Tax Authority Confirms E-Commerce Levy Is Not a New Tax, Effective July 2026
Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that the upcoming collection of income tax on online marketplace transactions, set to begin in July 2026, is not a new tax. The mechanism, which involves e-commerce platforms withholding Article 22 Income Tax at a rate of 0.5% from seller turnover, is designed to simplify compliance rather than impose additional burdens. The DJP also confirmed that sales data from sellers operating across multiple platforms will be integrated into the central tax system using their national ID numbers.