Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 June 2026

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PetroChina Donates Two Ambulances to Strengthen Operational Readiness of Jambi's Adhyaksa Hospital

PetroChina International Jabung Ltd. has donated two ambulances to support the upcoming operational launch of Adhyaksa Hospital in Jambi. The vehicles, equipped with emergency medical gear, were handed over to the Jambi High Prosecutor's Office as part of a corporate social responsibility initiative. The collaboration aims to enhance public health services and strengthen ties between the energy company and local stakeholders.

Pizza Hut Indonesia Operator Acquires 52% of Hayo Frozen Yogurt

Sarimelati Kencana, the operator of Pizza Hut in Indonesia, is acquiring a 52 percent stake in frozen yogurt brand Hayo for Rp 10.4 billion as it diversifies beyond pizza following a return to profitability. The company aims to reduce its reliance on pizza sales and strengthen its position in the growing halal food and beverage market. This acquisition is part of a broader expansion strategy that includes establishing a new bakery and food services subsidiary.

Japan considers establishing a second capital to support Tokyo

Japan's ruling coalition has submitted a bill to parliament proposing the creation of a 'second capital' to aid Tokyo's functions and promote decentralisation. The legislation, part of a deal between the Liberal Democratic Party and the Osaka-based Japan Innovation Party, aims to reorganise Osaka into a special metropolis. The move follows Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's reliance on JIP support to secure her historic premiership.

New Collaboration Drives National Connectivity

PT Solusi Sinergi Digital Tbk (SURGE) and Wuhan FiberHome have signed an extended strategic partnership at MWC 2026 Shanghai to accelerate Indonesia's digital transformation. The collaboration targets the construction of up to 3,000 FWA sites, 1.6 million FWA CPE units, and 300,000 FTTH homepass connections, alongside national backbone development. Both companies view the initiative as a crucial enabler for equitable economic growth, education, and public service access across the archipelago.

US-Iran Update: Ships Reportedly Passing Strait of Hormuz, But...

Vessels have reportedly begun transiting the Strait of Hormuz under a new UN maritime agency scheme, though Iran's Revolutionary Guard has warned that any route not coordinated with Tehran is unacceptable and dangerous. The International Maritime Organization is facilitating the evacuation of hundreds of stranded ships, but the initiative does not cover vessels seeking to enter the Gulf to load oil. The situation remains tense as Iran threatens action against ships ignoring its instructions while the US accuses Tehran of attempting to extort global maritime trade.

Ade Sara Case Perpetrators Sentenced to Life, Could Taufik Hidayat Receive a Similar Punishment?

The public is drawing comparisons between the life sentences handed down in the 2014 Ade Sara murder case and the ongoing investigation into Taufik Hidayat, who is accused of torturing and falsely imprisoning his girlfriend. Legal experts note the cases differ significantly, as the victim in the current case survived, meaning Taufik currently faces charges of aggravated assault rather than premeditated murder. Police are still investigating the possibility of adding charges related to deprivation of liberty.

Energy and Economic Crisis Looms Over Israel in the Next Two Decades

Israel's State Comptroller has warned the country risks losing its energy independence within two decades due to depleting gas reserves and continued large-scale exports. The report criticises the government for lacking a long-term policy to secure domestic market needs, despite natural gas currently fuelling around 70 per cent of electricity production. Without intervention, Israel may be forced to import natural gas in approximately 22 years.

Jambi Customs Destroys Illegal Goods Worth Rp 3.6 Billion from 115 Enforcement Actions

The Jambi Customs and Excise Office has destroyed illegal goods valued at Rp 3.65 billion, seized from 115 enforcement operations between June 2025 and May 2026. The haul was dominated by 4.7 million illicit cigarettes, with the total potential state loss prevented estimated at Rp 3.48 billion. Officials stated the destruction serves as a firm warning and demonstrates the state's commitment to protecting the public from illegal circulation.

KPK Summons Six Witnesses in Foreigner Residence Permit Case in Bali

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned six witnesses in Bali as part of an investigation into alleged extortion involving foreign nationals' residence permits. The case has ensnared former Deputy Minister of Immigration and Corrections Silmy Karim, who surrendered to authorities earlier this month. The KPK has named eight suspects in the scheme, which allegedly generated illicit profits of Rp145.5 billion between 2022 and 2026.

Thousands of orphans in Central Lombok receive 10 Muharram 1448 H assistance

Over 7,000 orphans across 12 sub-districts in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, received financial assistance during the Rahman Rahim Day event commemorating 10 Muharram 1448 Hijriah. The funds were collected through a charity programme involving civil servants (ASN), with support from Islamic boarding schools and the National Alms Agency (Baznas).

China's Pressure Drives Southeast Asia to Strengthen Defence Cooperation

Southeast Asian nations are increasingly forging bilateral defence agreements and strategic partnerships to counterbalance China's assertiveness in the South China Sea. These pacts, ranging from missile sales to intelligence sharing, aim to bolster deterrence without forming a formal anti-China alliance. The trend reflects a shared interest among middle powers to uphold maritime law and maintain strategic autonomy amid growing geopolitical uncertainty.

Tiyo Ardianto Dismisses PDIP Affiliation Claims as 'Cocoklogi'

Student activist Tiyo Ardianto has brushed off accusations of being affiliated with the PDIP party, dismissing them as speculative 'cocoklogi'. The allegations emerged after a tracking device was found on his vehicle following a protest, with critics linking the car's ownership to a relative of a retired general connected to the party. Ardianto maintains his independence and insists the focus should remain on government policies like the free meal programme and village cooperatives.

Education Assistance for Teachers: S1/D4 Degree Programme Requirements and Registration

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is offering a scholarship programme for both civil servant and non-civil servant teachers who have yet to obtain a bachelor's or applied bachelor's degree. The initiative aims to help teachers meet minimum academic qualifications through designated teacher training institutions using a Recognition of Prior Learning scheme. Eligible candidates must be active teachers with at least three years of experience, a maximum age of 55, and must apply online via the SIPKA Guru portal.

Bappenas Head Says Indonesia's SDGs Achievement 'Quite Good'

Indonesia has achieved over 60 percent of its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators, significantly outpacing the global average of under 20 percent, according to the Minister of National Development Planning. Rachmat Pambudi stressed the need to accelerate progress on the remaining targets to serve as a critical foundation for the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. He noted that 59 indicators still require special attention to get back on track before the 2030 deadline.

Bappenas: Universities Act as Catalysts for SDGs

Minister for National Development Planning Rachmat Pambudy has emphasised the crucial role of universities as catalysts in accelerating the achievement of Indonesia's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Speaking at the SDGs Center Conference 2026, he called for campuses to become living laboratories producing impactful research and relevant curricula. The minister also highlighted the role of university SDGs Centers in collaborating on development programmes and fostering entrepreneurship through the SDGs Entrepreneurial Center platform.

Budget Shortfall of Rp96 Trillion Threatens to Stall 3 Million Homes Programme

Indonesia's ambitious 3 Million Homes programme faces a severe funding gap, with the required budget of Rp106 trillion far exceeding the indicative ceiling of just Rp9.9 trillion. Parliamentary leaders have urged the government to commit to reducing the housing backlog, which currently stands at a funding deficit of Rp96.08 trillion. The Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas warned that current allocations are insufficient to meet construction targets for flats and self-help housing schemes.

Police Check CCTV to Find Truck That Destroyed Tebet Eco Park Bus Stop

Jakarta police are investigating a hit-and-run incident where a truck destroyed the Tebet Eco Park bus stop early Thursday morning. The truck's roof became stuck on the shelter structure before the driver fled the scene. Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage to identify the vehicle and locate the driver.

Bogor Station Footbridge to Be Demolished, Roads to Close Overnight

The pedestrian footbridge (JPO) in front of Bogor Station will be demolished starting tonight, with road closures in effect from midnight to 4 a.m. WIB. The demolition, prompted by a structural assessment deeming the bridge unsafe, is expected to last up to seven days. Traffic diversions will be implemented around Jalan Kapten Muslihat and surrounding areas during the overnight works.

West Java Government and PWI to Hold Free Journalist Competency Tests for 200 Participants

The West Java Communication and Informatics Office, in collaboration with the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI), is organising a free journalist competency test (UKW) for 200 participants. The programme aims to enhance journalistic professionalism, ensure adherence to ethical codes, and strengthen the role of journalists as partners in disseminating government programmes. The tests are being held in Bandung and Majalengka.

UMS Faculty of Medicine Becomes First Private Campus in Indonesia to Achieve IAAHEH International Accreditation

The Faculty of Medicine at Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) has become the first private medical school in Indonesia to receive full international accreditation from the Indonesian Accreditation Agency for Higher Education in Health (IAAHEH). The eight-year accreditation applies to both its undergraduate medical programme and medical profession programme. This achievement is expected to enhance the global competitiveness of UMS graduates and expand the faculty's international partnerships.

Stories from Cikarang to West Jakarta: Job Seekers Brave Distance Amid Tough Market

A 28-year-old man from Cikarang travelled to West Jakarta to attend a job fair, highlighting the lengths Indonesians are going to in a difficult employment market. Both he and a 19-year-old fellow attendee have called on the government to be more responsive to job seekers and to expand such recruitment events. The stories underscore growing public concern over job scarcity and the demand for better communication from recruiters.

PBNU Official Clarifies Muktamar Location Decision Not Yet Final

A senior official of Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), has clarified that the decision to revoke Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School as the host of its upcoming congress is not final. The Rais Aam intervened during a heated plenary session to ensure the selection process adheres to the organisation's constitutional rules. Several provinces have now submitted bids to host the 35th Muktamar scheduled for early August.

OJK Reveals Small Banks Planning to Upgrade to KBMI 2 Status

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has disclosed that several small banks with core capital between Rp3 trillion and Rp6 trillion are planning to increase their capital to move up to the KBMI 2 category. The regulator is encouraging voluntary consolidation and fundamental strengthening among these KBMI 1 banks to enhance resilience and economies of scale. The OJK emphasised that this policy direction is a gradual, measured process focused on dialogue with the industry and maintaining financial system stability.

Yogyakarta Governor Sultan HB X Takes Week-Long Leave for Medical Check-Up

The Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, has taken a week's leave for a medical check-up, with his deputy KGPAA Paku Alam X appointed as acting governor. The regional secretary has assured the public that the appointment is a standard procedural mechanism to prevent a vacuum in authority and is not a new policy or political move. Officials have dismissed speculation about the Sultan's health, stating his main agenda is simply a routine medical examination.

Rohil Police Renovate Resident's Home as Part of Bhayangkara Day

The Rokan Hilir Police carried out a home renovation for a resident in Tanah Putih District as part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations. The initiative aims to demonstrate the police force's commitment to community welfare and improve living conditions. The project involved upgrading a dilapidated wooden house to a more habitable standard.

Italy Furious as NATO Chief Reveals Secret Role in US-Iran War

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has sparked political uproar in Italy by disclosing that Rome secretly permitted the use of its bases for 500 US aircraft sorties during the conflict with Iran. The revelation directly contradicts public assurances by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni that Italy neither supported nor participated in the military operation. Opposition leaders have accused the government of lying to parliament, while the Italian defence minister dismissed Rutte's claims as misleading.

Task Force and Technical Verification Accelerate Designation of Customary Forests

The Indonesian government is accelerating the legal recognition of customary forests through a dedicated task force and rigorous technical verification, targeting 1.4 million hectares by 2029. The process involves field verification by academics and community interviews to ensure compliance with legal criteria, supported by the UNDP and the Norwegian government. This initiative aims to protect ecological systems while upholding the traditional knowledge and social justice rights of indigenous communities.

West Java Police Confirm Suspect Taufik Was Arrested, Did Not Surrender

West Java Regional Police have clarified that Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in a false imprisonment and abuse case, was actively arrested by officers and did not surrender as previously rumoured. The suspect was apprehended in the Majalaya area after moving between locations to evade capture. Police are also investigating a witness who may have known the suspect's movements and are encouraging other potential victims to come forward.

Bahlil to Investigate Cause of Rolling Blackouts

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia is leading an investigation into the rolling blackouts that have affected parts of Java since 8 June 2026. A high-level coordination meeting involving the Attorney General's Office, State Intelligence Agency, and parliamentary leaders has been convened to scrutinise the root cause, with initial findings pointing to a shortage of medium-grade coal. The government has since intervened by restricting some coal exports to secure domestic supply and plans to establish a new oversight team to ensure transparent procurement.

Entitas UNTR Akuisisi Saham 2 Smelter HPAL Kawasan IMIP

Entitas asosiasi United Tractors, Nickel Industries Limited, mengumumkan akuisisi saham minoritas di dua smelter high pressure acid leaching (HPAL) di kawasan IMIP, yakni 17,5% saham PT Teluk Metal Industry senilai US$ 169 juta dan 36% saham PT Chengsheng New Energy. Transaksi ini diharapkan meningkatkan kapasitas produksi nikel perusahaan secara signifikan, dengan kedua smelter diproyeksikan mulai beroperasi penuh pada tahun 2027. Langkah ini menegaskan ekspansi berkelanjutan di sektor hilirisasi nikel Indonesia.

Finance Minister Purbaya Conducts Surprise Inspection of Chinese Steel Firm in Pulogadung

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa made an unannounced visit to a Chinese steel company in Jakarta's Pulogadung industrial area to reinforce tax compliance oversight. The inspection follows indications of a potential discrepancy between the firm's business scale and its reported tax obligations. The government aims to ensure fair competition and transparency, with the company pledging full cooperation during the ongoing clarification process.

Amnesty Urges Government to Halt Military Training for Village Cooperative Managers After Three Deaths

Amnesty International Indonesia has called for an immediate halt to basic military training for prospective village cooperative managers following the deaths of three participants. The executive director questioned the relevance of military drills for civilian managerial roles and demanded an independent investigation into the fatalities. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the deaths were due to health issues including heat stroke, cardiac arrest, and tuberculosis, while asserting that all participants had passed medical screenings.

Waste from Cheese and Tofu Production Could Be a Cheap Solution for Absorbing Carbon Dioxide

Scientists in Switzerland have developed an innovative, low-cost method for direct air capture of carbon dioxide using protein waste from cheese and tofu manufacturing. The process transforms liquid food industry waste into amyloid fibril granules that can bind CO2 at room temperature and be regenerated with mild chemicals. The researchers believe this sustainable technology, which outperforms many conventional materials, could be scaled industrially and offers a significantly smaller carbon footprint.

US Allies Begin to Tire of Trump's Actions, Speak Out Bluntly

The Netherlands is actively lobbying the United States against expanding chip equipment export controls to China, citing concerns over the impact on Dutch semiconductor giant ASML. Dutch Trade Minister Sjoerd Sjoerdsma met with US officials in Washington to voice significant opposition to the proposed MATCH Act, which would impose extraterritorial restrictions on allied nations. The Dutch government argues that while preventing sensitive technology from threatening security is vital, such measures must be implemented voluntarily rather than through cross-border coercion.

Police arrest 'airsoft gun' seller in North Jakarta

Police in North Jakarta have arrested a man suspected of trading airsoft guns and related equipment. The suspect, identified as MF alias B, was apprehended following an undercover operation in Tanjung Priok. He faces up to 15 years in prison under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

Pizza Hut Indonesia Operator Enters Frozen Yogurt Business, Earmarks Up to IDR 10.4 Billion Investment

PT Sarimelati Kencana Tbk (PZZA), the operator of Pizza Hut in Indonesia, plans to invest up to IDR 10.4 billion to acquire a 52% stake in frozen yogurt company PT Halal Artisan Yummies. The move is part of a diversification strategy to reduce reliance on its core pizza business and expand its food and beverage portfolio. The company stated the transaction, representing about 1% of its equity, will not strain its financial health.

Viral: Residents Test Bekasi Fire Department's Emergency Pole, Here's the Sensation

An emergency sliding pole at a fire station in South Bekasi has gone viral after local residents were allowed to try it. The five-metre pole, typically used by firefighters for rapid response, drew curious locals who were guided by officers on duty. Fire officials confirmed the public is welcome to visit and try the facilities under supervision, with safety as a priority.

Mount Semeru Erupts, Ash Column Reaches 1.2 km Above Summit

Mount Semeru in East Java erupted multiple times on Thursday, with the largest eruption sending an ash column 1.2 kilometres above its peak. The volcano remains at Level III (Alert) status, with authorities warning residents to avoid a 13-kilometre radius along the Besuk Kobokan sector. Officials have cautioned against the potential for pyroclastic flows, lava avalanches, and lahars in the surrounding river valleys.

Jokowi's 3-Day Itinerary in Lampung: PSI Meetings, Cultural Parades, and MSME Visits

Former President Joko Widodo is scheduled for a three-day visit to Lampung from 26 to 28 June, attending Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) coordination meetings and various community events. His itinerary includes cultural carnivals, meetings with traditional leaders, and visits to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The visit is being facilitated by a volunteer group, the Nusantara Brigade.

10 Former OPM Members in Sorong Raya Return to the Fold of Indonesia

Ten former members of the Free Papua Organisation (OPM) in the Sorong Raya region have pledged allegiance to the Republic of Indonesia. Their return, facilitated through a six-month persuasive approach by the military and local government, includes several leaders and their families. Authorities hope this will encourage other separatists to abandon armed struggle and reintegrate into society.

Bahlil Addresses Concerns Over Rising Industrial Gas Prices

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has clarified that rising gas prices for some industries are not due to a national supply shortage. The increase affects industries using non-subsidised pricing schemes, driven by declining local production in West Java and the higher cost of transporting LNG from other regions. The government is now in technical discussions with Pertamina to find a balanced price that does not overburden businesses.

Layoff Threat Looms Over Industrial Gas Prices, Bahlil Seeks Solution

The Indonesian government is scrambling to address the threat of mass layoffs driven by high industrial gas prices outside the subsidised HGBT scheme. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed technical discussions are underway with Pertamina to find a pricing formula that maintains industrial competitiveness. Labour unions have warned that without immediate intervention, approximately 50,000 workers could face redundancy, with one ceramics company already planning furloughs.

KPK Examines Former Transport Ministry Director in Railway Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned Danto Restyawan, a former director at the Ministry of Transportation, as a witness in a sprawling bribery case linked to railway construction projects. The investigation, which began with a sting operation in 2023, has expanded to include 21 individual suspects and two corporations. The case involves alleged bid-rigging across multiple railway infrastructure projects in Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi.

Indonesia distributes 1.02 mln tons of state rice to stabilize prices

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) has distributed over one million tons of government rice reserves in the 2026 budget year to stabilise market prices. The distribution includes aid, market operations, and emergency supplies, while total reserves managed by Bulog stand at 5.17 million tons. Despite recent price increases, Bapanas reports that rice prices remain within the government's retail price ceiling across all regions.

Preserving the Buka Luwur Tradition, Spreading Blessings Through Nasi Jangkrik

Thousands of residents in Kudus, Central Java, gathered to receive 'nasi jangkrik' during the annual Buka Luwur ceremony at the tomb of Sunan Kudus. The event, held on the 10th of Muharram, saw the distribution of approximately 34,000 packets of rice wrapped in teak leaves with buffalo and goat meat. The tradition serves as an expression of gratitude and embodies Islamic teachings on sharing with others.

Police Anti-Corruption Unit Suspects PT TSL Bribed Customs for Illegal Mobile Phone Imports

The Indonesian National Police's Anti-Corruption Corps is investigating allegations that PT TSL bribed customs officials to facilitate the illegal import of mobile phones from China. The case emerged from a separate smuggling investigation by the Criminal Investigation Department, which has already named four suspects. Authorities suspect manipulation of goods classification codes to reduce import duties, causing state losses and harming consumers with refurbished devices.

Former Ombudsman Chairman Charged with Accepting Rp4.8 Billion in Bribes from Mining Companies

Hery Susanto, the former Chairman of the Indonesian Ombudsman for the 2021-2026 period, has been charged with accepting Rp4.85 billion in bribes. Prosecutors allege the bribes were paid by several mining companies to influence official reports regarding administrative malfeasance in nickel mining governance. The payments were reportedly intended to secure favourable findings in Ombudsman reports concerning state non-tax revenue obligations and mining permit upgrades.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry Confirms No Casualties Among Citizens in Major Venezuela Earthquake

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that all three Indonesian nationals in Venezuela are safe following a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake. The Indonesian Embassy in Caracas reported no damage to its facilities and has established emergency communication lines. Indonesia has also extended its condolences to Venezuela, where at least 32 people were killed.

Tourism Ministry Invites Public to Holiday 'The New Way #DiIndonesiaAja'

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is promoting a 'New Way of Holiday' campaign to encourage domestic travel to nearby destinations during the 2026 school holidays. The initiative responds to data showing the majority of domestic trips are short-distance, intra-provincial journeys, driven by cost and accessibility. The campaign also leverages AI planning tools and offers 95 curated travel packages to boost local economies.

Gov't builds 5,000 suspension bridges to support connectivity

The Indonesian government has announced an ambitious plan to construct 5,000 suspension bridges by the end of 2026, with an initial target of 2,500 by August of that year. The programme, a collaboration between the government, the Indonesian Army, and local communities, aims to connect remote areas long divided by rivers and difficult terrain. President Prabowo Subianto's administration views the bridges as vital for improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, describing them as a 'connection to the future' for children in isolated regions.