Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 24 June 2026

Showing 401-450 of 1,678 articles

Bamsoet Backs Content Creator Drag Event, Urges Automotive-Creative Economy Synergy

Indonesian parliamentarian Bambang Soesatyo has endorsed an upcoming drag racing and content creator event in Bandung, highlighting its potential to merge the automotive sector with the creative economy. The event, scheduled for 4 July, will feature drag races, a charity component, and a bazaar involving 150 content creators and local MSMEs. He emphasised that such initiatives can strengthen community ties, boost local economic turnover, and demonstrate the multiplier effect of integrating digital content creation with traditional automotive activities.

Investment Contributes 30% to National Economic Growth, Says Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister for Investment and Downstreaming Todotua Pasaribu stated that investment now accounts for approximately 30% of Indonesia's economic growth. The government is targeting Rp 13,000 trillion in realised investment over five years to help achieve 8% economic growth by 2029, with downstreaming in minerals and other sectors playing a significant role.

TASPEN Inaugurates Mamuju Branch Office with ESG Concept

State-owned insurer PT TASPEN has opened its first branch office built to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards in Mamuju, West Sulawesi. The facility features wastewater treatment, biometric access, and disability-friendly design to serve over 48,000 participants and pensioners in the province. The inauguration marks a step in TASPEN's service transformation and commitment to sustainable development.

Illegal Goods Worth Rp3.5 Billion Destroyed by Jambi Customs

The Jambi Customs and Excise Office has destroyed 4.7 million illegal cigarettes and various other contraband items valued at approximately Rp3.5 billion. The goods were seized from 115 enforcement actions conducted over the past year in collaboration with local stakeholders. Officials stated the destruction serves as a firm message of law enforcement and the state's commitment to protecting the public from illicit trade.

Two Fraudsters Posing as Provincial Employees Swindle Hundreds in Malang

Two individuals in Malang have been arrested for allegedly defrauding hundreds of residents by posing as employees of a regional government-owned enterprise. One suspect even claimed to be an aide to the governor to convince victims to join a fictitious micro-business empowerment programme, resulting in losses totalling tens of millions of rupiah.

Health Minister Proposes Free Meals for TB Patients, Lawmaker Questions Budget and Oversight

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has proposed including tuberculosis patients in the government's free nutritious meal programme, citing research that better nutrition speeds recovery. A member of the House of Representatives has questioned whether the proposal has been thoroughly assessed, demanding clarity on the budget, data collection mechanisms, and supervision to ensure the programme remains targeted and effective.

Doctor Tifa Withdraws Pre-Trial Detention Challenge

Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, has withdrawn her pre-trial motion challenging the legality of her detention after the South Jakarta Prosecutor's Office granted her a suspension of detention. Her case file has been separated from co-defendant Roy Suryo's, and the trial will be held at the East Jakarta District Court following a Supreme Court directive.

Data centers key to driving 8 percent economic growth: Minister

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that developing data centre infrastructure is crucial for Indonesia to achieve over 8 percent economic growth, driven by the digital economy and artificial intelligence. He highlighted Indonesia's competitive advantages, including land availability and diverse energy sources, while also announcing plans to train 15,000 semiconductor talents and strengthen regional cooperation through the ASEAN Digital Economic Framework Agreement. The government aims to position Indonesia as a regional digital hub by accelerating data centre, semiconductor, and digital talent development.

Gen Z Earns More Than Millennials at the Same Age, Study Finds

A UK study reveals that Generation Z workers are enjoying higher real wages compared to Millennials at the same age, driven by early career pay growth and minimum wage hikes. However, the Resolution Foundation warns that inflation, economic slowdown, and a growing number of young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET) could threaten these gains.

Bima Arya Stresses ASN Must Have Empathy and a Serving Spirit

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has called for a transformation in public service, urging civil servants (ASN) to adopt a stronger service orientation, empathy, and innovation. He highlighted that these qualities are essential to bridge the gap between policy vision and real-world impact, particularly in meeting Minimum Service Standards (SPM) for education and health. The remarks were made during a design thinking training session aimed at building ASN capacity to create more responsive and citizen-centred policies.

Indonesia remains safe haven for investment amid turmoil: Airlangga

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto asserts that Indonesia and Southeast Asia remain attractive destinations for foreign direct investment despite global uncertainty. He highlights the region's resilient economic growth, supply chain realignment, and government efforts to maintain fiscal and monetary stability. Indonesia's ongoing OECD accession is also expected to enhance regulatory standards and unlock access to a vast global market.

OJK Reveals Several KBMI 1 Banks Plan Consolidation

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has disclosed that several banks in the KBMI 1 category are planning to consolidate to increase their business scale. The regulator is leaving the final decision to shareholders based on business considerations, while emphasising that the policy is a gradual, measured process aimed at creating a stronger and more efficient banking sector.

Samudera Indonesia Distributes Total Dividends of Rp196.5 Billion

PT Samudera Indonesia Tbk (SMDR) has approved a total dividend payout of Rp196.5 billion, or Rp12 per share, for the 2025 financial year. The shipping company also announced plans to issue Rp700 billion in sustainable sukuk to fund the acquisition of three new vessels. The dividend distribution follows a 3% year-on-year increase in net profit to USD 52.1 million, supported by a 9% rise in revenue.

Should Demonstration Funding Be Transparent?

A bribery scandal involving student leaders at Universitas Bung Karno has sparked calls for transparency in protest funding. The university suspended students after an alleged payment from an alumnus via police to avoid demonstrations near the State Palace. A budget watchdog notes that while public funds are strictly regulated, internal alliance funding mechanisms remain opaque.

Social Affairs Ministry and TNI Develop Character-Building Scheme for Sekolah Rakyat Students

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs is collaborating with the Indonesian National Armed Forces to instil discipline in students attending the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. Approximately 1,000 military cadets will be deployed to 178 schools to provide guidance on personal neatness and orderliness. The initiative, set to begin in August 2026, responds to President Prabowo Subianto's attention to tidiness and aims to help students adapt to a structured boarding school environment.

IMO begins evacuation of 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has commenced the evacuation of approximately 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Persian Gulf. The operation follows a recent US-Iran agreement to end military conflict and restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Two Cooperative and Fishing Village Training Participants Die, Amnesty International Demands Independent Investigation

Amnesty International Indonesia has called for an independent investigation after two civilians died during a military-style basic training programme for village cooperative managers. The organisation also urged the government to immediately halt military involvement in the programme, criticising the mandatory physical and disciplinary regime as irrelevant to cooperative management. The deaths have raised concerns over transparency, the militarisation of civilian roles, and the potential revival of a dual-function military doctrine.

Over 1,200 cargo ships stranded due to Strait of Hormuz closure

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has left more than 1,200 cargo vessels carrying goods worth $125 billion stranded, according to insurer Allianz. The disruption has fundamentally altered risk perceptions for strategic maritime chokepoints, with the conflict causing 14 seafarer deaths and missile attacks on over 40 ships. Shipping traffic is gradually recovering following a US-Iran agreement.

Government Probes Reports of Japanese Companies Leaving Indonesia

The Indonesian government is investigating claims that two Japanese automotive component manufacturers plan to relocate from Indonesia to Vietnam. While the Ministry of Industry states that operations remain normal and no layoffs have occurred, the reports have prompted calls for the government to safeguard the investment climate, particularly for export-oriented manufacturing firms.

MSCI Keeps Indonesia in Emerging Market Status, OJK Welcomes Decision

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed MSCI's 2026 decision to retain the country's equity market in its Emerging Market classification. The OJK views this as a sign of continued global investor confidence in the resilience of the Indonesian economy and pledges to maintain reform momentum to enhance market transparency and integrity.

Kaisar Kiasa, Son of DPR Budget Committee Chair, Declares Assets Exceeding Rp627 Billion

Kaisar Kiasa Kasih Said Putra, a young PDIP legislator and son of Budget Committee Chair MH Said Abdullah, has drawn public attention for his declared wealth of over Rp627 billion. His LHKPN report reveals substantial holdings in cash, securities, and properties across several strategic locations. The 31-year-old currently serves on House Commission XI overseeing finance and banking.

Jampidsus Reveals Paradigm Shift in Corruption Law Enforcement

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriyansah, has detailed a significant shift in prosecuting corruption, moving beyond mere financial recovery to addressing the comprehensive impact on the national economy. The new 'follow the impact' approach, exemplified by the Duta Palma case, seeks to prove not just state financial losses but also economic, environmental, and social damages. This paradigm has been reinforced by court rulings, including a recent decision that upheld the recovery of both Rp2.9 trillion in direct state losses and Rp10.5 trillion in broader economic losses.

Gerindra: Do Not Attempt to Drive a Wedge Between Prabowo and Gibran

The Gerindra Party faction in Indonesia's House of Representatives has warned against any efforts to create a rift between President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. A senior party official dismissed rumours of internal surveillance of the Vice President as a hoax, reaffirming the faction's full support for the administration. The party emphasised that its routine meetings focus on mitigating regional issues and monitoring public purchasing power.

DPR Leadership and Commission II to Conduct Safari to Gather Input from Non-Parliamentary Parties for Election Bill

The House of Representatives (DPR) and its Commission II will embark on a political safari to engage non-parliamentary parties in drafting a new Election Bill. The initiative aims to gather comprehensive input on crucial issues such as parliamentary and presidential thresholds, as well as electoral district mapping. The marathon consultation sessions are scheduled to begin next week before the DPR enters its recess period.

Fortified rice requires large-scale mills for quality control

The Millers for Nutrition coalition suggests Indonesia's fortified rice programme should begin with large-scale mills to ensure easier quality control and implementation. With over 100,000 rice mills of varying sizes nationwide, the main challenges lie in strengthening the industrial ecosystem and expanding the number of fortified rice kernel producers. The government has already incorporated food fortification into its 2025-2029 national development plan.

Provincial Government, UBT, and Traditional Leaders Push for Cultural Campus in North Kalimantan

The North Kalimantan provincial government, the University of Borneo Tarakan (UBT), and indigenous figures are advocating for the establishment of a dedicated cultural campus. The initiative aims to create an academic institution focused on preserving local wisdom and historical sites in the border region. A hybrid dialogue was held to map out concrete steps for human resource development and cross-sector collaboration.

Indonesia Fortunate to Have Solid Economy, Consumer Spending Proves Saviour

Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti stated that Indonesia is fortunate to possess a solid domestic economy, primarily driven by resilient household consumption. This strong consumer spending, which accounted for over half of GDP in the first quarter of 2026, serves as a crucial buffer against escalating global uncertainties, including the Iran-US conflict and rising oil prices.

Three NTB DPRD Gratification Defendants Deny Giving Money to Council Members

Three defendants in a corruption case involving the West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) have denied allegations of giving money to several council members. During a trial at the Mataram Corruption Court, Indra Jaya Usman, Hamdan Kasim, and M. Nashib Ikroman each refuted witness testimonies claiming they had distributed funds. The case relates to the management of the Governor's discretionary fund for the 'Desa Berdaya' (Empowered Village) programme.

China to Expand Tiangong Space Station, Opening Significant Future Opportunities

China plans to expand its Tiangong space station from a T-shape to a cross-shaped configuration by adding a new multi-functional module. The expansion aims to accommodate growing scientific research demands, more frequent crewed and cargo missions, and increased international cooperation. Long-term plans envision a six-module station doubling its mass to 180 tonnes, transforming it into a comprehensive orbital complex.

London Climate Action Week 2026: Indonesia Introduces New Funding Sources for National Parks

Indonesia has announced a strategic shift from merely financing nature protection to investing in conservation as a national asset. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni unveiled a new Presidential Task Force for Innovative Financing for National Parks and the 'One Species, One Company' initiative to engage the private sector. The government is developing science-based investment prospectuses for thirteen priority national parks to attract global partnerships and close the conservation funding gap.

Quality, Environmental, and Safety Standards Become Foundation for Petrochemical Producer

PT Lotte Chemical Indonesia has secured Integrated Management System certification from BSI Group Indonesia, covering ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 standards. The certification, accredited both nationally and internationally, affirms the company's commitment to operational excellence in product quality, environmental compliance, and occupational health and safety. The achievement is positioned as a strategic foundation to bolster the reliability and competitiveness of Indonesia's national petrochemical industry.

Government Funds in Banks Begin Gradual Withdrawal by Purbaya, Moved to BI

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance has confirmed that excess budget funds (SAL) placed in state-owned banks are being gradually transferred back to Bank Indonesia. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa previously disclosed that around Rp 300 trillion of the total Rp 420 trillion SAL had been placed in commercial banks. The phased withdrawal aims to consolidate the government's cash reserves with the central bank.

Five Logo Designs for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day: Which One Is Your Pick?

The Indonesian government has shortlisted five logo designs for the 81st Independence Day anniversary, inviting public voting from 24 to 28 June 2026. The chosen logo will accompany the official theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur' (Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia). Each design incorporates distinct philosophical elements reflecting national unity, democracy, and progress.

Demonstration Disperses, Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan Towards Gambir Reopens

A demonstration by the Indonesian National Student Movement (GMNI) and Cipayung Jakarta Barat in Central Jakarta concluded peacefully, leading to the reopening of Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan. The protesters had demanded national economic recovery, evaluation of strategic programmes, and improved governance. Traffic flow returned to normal after police removed barriers and sanitation workers cleaned the area.

Is Ashura Really Haunted? The Virtues of the 10th of Muharram in Islam

The article clarifies misconceptions about the Islamic day of Ashura, often wrongly associated with bad luck and mysticism in some Indonesian traditions. It explains that in Islam, the 10th of Muharram is a noble day commemorating significant events of divine mercy and prophetic history. The piece encourages Muslims to replace superstitious fear with spiritual reflection and good deeds.

At PENAS XVII Peak, BULOG Affirms Support for Sustainable Food Self-Sufficiency

State logistics firm Perum BULOG has reinforced its commitment to sustainable food self-sufficiency during the peak event of the 2026 National Farmers and Fishermen Week (PENAS) in Gorontalo. President Prabowo Subianto emphasised that food security is the foundation of national sovereignty, while BULOG's CEO outlined the firm's strategic role in absorbing farmers' harvests and strengthening government food reserves. The event served as a platform to enhance collaboration across Indonesia's food sector stakeholders.

Layoff Storm Threatens Textile and Tobacco Industries

Indonesia's textile and tobacco sectors face mounting layoff pressures amid a weakening rupiah and tightening regulations. The textile industry has already seen over 23,000 job losses in the first five months of 2026, while the tobacco sector contracted by 4.05% year-on-year in Q1 2026. Proposed health ministry rules, including plain packaging and flavour bans, are fuelling industry fears of further production declines and illegal cigarette proliferation.

Hotel Sultan Emptied, Assets Moved to Cikarang Warehouse

The Gelora Bung Karno Complex Management Centre (PPKGBK) has begun removing movable assets belonging to former Hotel Sultan operator PT Indobuildco, transferring them to a storage facility in Cikarang. The operation, which started on 20 June 2026, is expected to take 30 days and follows a court-ordered eviction from the state-owned land. The process involves meticulous inventory, labelling, and coordination between the State Secretariat Ministry and PPKGBK to ensure orderly asset management.

Law Minister Signs Legal Cooperation with Russian Prosecutor General, Mutual Information Exchange

Indonesia's Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas and Russian Prosecutor General Aleksandr V. Gutsan have formalised a legal cooperation agreement in St. Petersburg. The pact facilitates the exchange of information, data access, research, and experts, building upon a Mutual Legal Assistance treaty signed six years prior. The meeting also reviewed progress on MLA requests, including the recent presidential approval for the extradition of a Russian national.

Japanese Experts Calculate the Date of Doomsday, Here's the Schedule

A study from Japan's Toho University projects the end of life on Earth around the year 1,000,002,021, long before the Sun expands into a Red Giant. However, researchers warn that a more immediate existential threat stems from climate change and global temperature rises, which could critically disrupt human life as early as 2030.

Confiscated House from Benny Tjokro Case Revitalised into Adhyaksa Chambers Office

The Attorney General's Office has repurposed a luxury asset seized from convicted corruption convict Benny Tjokrosaputro into the headquarters for the Adhyaksa Chambers, a new centre for alternative dispute resolution. The facility aims to strengthen the state attorney's role in mediation and arbitration, supporting legal certainty for national development.

Positive 2025 Performance: Pertamina Strengthens Energy Security and Transition

PT Pertamina reported a robust financial performance for the 2025 fiscal year, with net profit reaching USD 3.35 billion. The state-owned energy giant maintained oil and gas production above 1 million BOEPD while advancing its energy transition efforts, including a 3% increase in electricity production and a reduction of 2.27 million tonnes of CO₂e emissions. The company contributed Rp 360.76 trillion to the state and recorded significant domestic investment, reinforcing its role in national economic stability.

Ministry of Religious Affairs: AI Lacks a Teacher, Scholarly Lineage, and Moral Responsibility

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has cautioned that artificial intelligence cannot replace human roles in shaping character and Islamic scholarly traditions. Director Muchlis M Hanafi stressed that AI lacks a scholarly lineage (sanad), a teacher, and moral accountability, even as it accelerates access to religious texts. He urged that technological progress must not erode the younger generation's dedication to traditional learning and the teacher-student relationship.

Governor Pramono Urges Residents to Take Advantage of Vehicle Tax Amnesty

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has called on residents to utilise the ongoing vehicle tax amnesty programme, which waives administrative penalties until August 2026. The initiative, launched to mark Jakarta's 499th anniversary and Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, aims to boost compliance and regional revenue. Pramono warned that the programme may not be repeated, urging taxpayers to settle arrears promptly to avoid future penalties.

Central Papua Allocates Rp77.8 Billion for Free Education Programme

The Central Papua provincial government has earmarked Rp77.8 billion to fund free education for 58,920 secondary and special needs students in 2026. Governor Meki Nawipa stated the initiative aims to boost access and reduce dropout rates caused by economic hardship. The province is also investing in teacher certification and welfare to improve overall education quality.

Prabowo: Nothing More Urgent Than an Empty Stomach

President Prabowo Subianto defended his flagship free nutritious meal programme (MBG) at a national farmers and fishermen event in Gorontalo, asserting that combating hunger is the most critical priority. He challenged critics to ask rural communities and children directly about the programme's necessity, amid growing protests and a recent corruption scandal involving the National Nutrition Agency.

Hilman Latief Claims KPK Questioned Him on Hajj Quota Distribution Policy

Former Director General of Hajj and Umrah, Hilman Latief, stated he was questioned by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) solely about hajj quota distribution policies, not about alleged illicit payments. This marks his third examination as a witness in a corruption case involving former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The KPK has previously indicated it possesses evidence contradicting Hilman's denial of receiving money.

Ex-Trade Minister Gita Wirjawan: Indonesia Has the Modalities to Become a Reckoned Nation

Former Trade Minister Gita Wirjawan asserts that Indonesia possesses ample natural and demographic resources to lead in ASEAN, but lacks the courage to do so. He calls for a reorientation of leadership selection away from popularity metrics towards integrity, capability, and ethics. Wirjawan advocates for aggressive investment in education, including revolutionary improvements to teacher salaries, to cultivate a generation of innovators rather than passive technology users.

Ornamental Plants on Sleman Road Dividers Frequently Stolen, Perpetrators Hard to Find

Ornamental plants along a road divider in Depok, Sleman, have been repeatedly stolen, prompting the local environmental agency to seek preventive measures. The agency admits difficulty in identifying the thieves and plans to replace the attractive plants with less appealing, more economical varieties. Coordination with other government bodies, including the installation of CCTV, is also being considered to deter future thefts.

Foreign Ministry Stresses Dialogue to Address Chinese Business Complaints

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has emphasised the need for stronger dialogue to address concerns raised by Chinese investors about the country's business climate. A senior diplomat stated that direct engagement provides a crucial channel for feedback, following a formal complaint from the China Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia to President Prabowo Subianto. The chamber's letter cited issues including overly strict regulations, excessive law enforcement, and alleged corruption.