Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 June 2026

Showing 1,301-1,350 of 1,504 articles

Prabowo to Deploy AI in Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Indonesian government plans to integrate artificial intelligence into its flagship free nutritious meal programme (MBG) and other priority initiatives starting in 2026. A draft presidential regulation outlines AI's role in designing regional menus, monitoring kitchen hygiene, and predicting food demand. The broader national AI strategy, developed with input from Meta, IBM, and Microsoft, aims to boost GDP by 12% by 2030.

Government Assures Former Hotel Sultan Employees Will Be Re-Employed After Selection Process

The Indonesian government has guaranteed that all former employees of Hotel Sultan will be re-employed by the Gelora Bung Karno Complex management (PPKGBK). A verification and selection process is currently underway to match staff with available positions based on their previous roles and employment status. The assurance comes as the eviction and removal of assets from the hotel site continues, with the process expected to take approximately one month.

Airlangga Claims Indonesian Market Accessibility Remains Strong

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that the MSCI's decision to retain Indonesia's Emerging Market status reflects strong economic fundamentals and market accessibility. The government views the MSCI review as constructive feedback to accelerate capital market reforms. Airlangga emphasised that consistent implementation of reforms is key to boosting transparency, integrity, and investor confidence.

13 Suspects in Little Aresha Daycare Violence Case to Stand Trial Soon

Prosecutors in Yogyakarta have declared the case files complete for 13 suspects in the alleged violence at Little Aresha Daycare, paving the way for their immediate trial. The handover of suspects and evidence from police to the prosecution marks a significant step towards legal certainty for both the victims and the accused.

Badung Regent Slams 'Ghost Workers', Vows to Eradicate Idle Civil Servants by 2027

Badung Regent I Wayan Adi Arnawa has issued a stern warning to civil servants drawing salaries without performing, announcing a full performance-based allowance system to be implemented by 2027. The new scheme will link 70 per cent of remuneration to productivity and 30 per cent to discipline, with automatic dismissal for severe violations. The move follows multiple disciplinary reports and previous dismissals of indolent employees within the Badung administration.

Half Open, Half Uncertain: Traversing Oman's Side of the Strait of Hormuz

A journey to Khasab, Oman, reveals the fragile and uncertain reopening of the Strait of Hormuz following a US-Iran memorandum of understanding. While some small cargo vessels have resumed trade, Iran has threatened to re-close the strategic waterway unless the war in Lebanon ends, keeping global energy markets and local livelihoods on edge. The disruption has severely impacted local tourism and shipping, though tentative signs of increased maritime traffic are emerging amid ongoing international negotiations.

IHSG Opens 1% Higher, Buoyed by MSCI Decision and Global Sentiment

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened 1.11% higher on Thursday, tracking global gains as geopolitical concerns eased. Market sentiment was further supported by MSCI's decision to retain Indonesia's Emerging Market status, which allayed fears of significant foreign capital outflows. Investors are now looking ahead to US inflation data for clues on the Federal Reserve's interest rate trajectory.

Powerful 7.5 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Venezuela, Death Toll Could Reach 100,000

A devastating 7.5 magnitude earthquake struck western Venezuela on Wednesday, causing widespread building collapses and trapping residents under rubble. The US Geological Survey has issued a dire preliminary estimate warning that the death toll could range from 10,000 to 100,000. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez has declared a state of emergency as rescue operations continue amid fears of aftershocks.

OJK Stress Tests Banks at Rp18,000 per Dollar, Here Are the Results

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has confirmed that the rupiah's depreciation to around Rp18,000 per US dollar has not significantly impacted the national banking industry. Stress tests incorporating the weaker exchange rate scenario indicate the sector remains resilient, supported by strong capital, liquidity, and low net foreign exchange positions. The regulator continues intensive supervision and coordination with other financial authorities to maintain stability amid global uncertainty.

BMKG Confirms M6.8 Japan Earthquake Poses No Tsunami Threat to Indonesia

The Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that a magnitude 6.8 earthquake that struck off the east coast of Honshu, Japan, does not pose a tsunami risk to Indonesia. The agency also noted that a separate magnitude 7.3 earthquake in Venezuela similarly poses no threat to the archipelago.

Rupiah Continues to Weaken to Rp 17,976 Despite Government's Planned Economic Stimulus in Second Half of 2026

The Indonesian rupiah extended its decline against the US dollar, trading at Rp 17,976 on Thursday morning despite the government's announcement of a Rp 26.34 trillion stimulus package for the second half of 2026. The currency's weakness persists amid global uncertainty, although markets responded positively to MSCI's decision to postpone its review of Indonesia's market accessibility until November 2026. The government's stimulus measures, including tax incentives and social assistance, are designed to bolster domestic economic resilience against geopolitical pressures.

Antam Gold Price Stagnant Today, Buyback Value Plunges Rp52,000

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) remained unchanged in trading on Thursday, 25 June 2026, holding at its lowest level since mid-January. In contrast, the buyback price weakened significantly, dropping by Rp52,000 to Rp2,320,000 per gram. The stagnation in the retail price breaks a slight upward trend from the previous session.

Antam Gold Price Steady at Rp2.6 Million on Thursday

The price of Antam gold remained unchanged at Rp2,655,000 per gram on Thursday morning, while the buyback price fell by Rp52,000 to Rp2,320,000 per gram. The pricing structure includes applicable tax deductions as stipulated by Indonesian regulations, with varying rates for taxpayers and non-taxpayers.

Eight Countries Claimed to be Interested in Investing in Makassar for Marine Tourism Development

The Makassar city government is pursuing business agreements with 28 countries, with eight reportedly ready to invest, particularly in marine tourism. The administration aims to leverage the city's archipelagic potential and proximity to the city centre to attract foreign capital. The initiative, part of the Indonesia Gastrodiplomacy Series, seeks to move beyond ceremonial events to secure concrete economic deals.

Legal Counsel: Jokowi Has No Interest in Whether Roy Suryo Is Detained or Not

The legal team for former Indonesian President Joko Widodo has stated that their client has no vested interest in the detention status of Roy Suryo and Doctor Tifa, who are accused of spreading false claims about his academic credentials. The case has been transferred to the East Jakarta District Court, with prosecutors opting not to detain the pair but requiring them to report weekly. Jokowi's counsel emphasised that the former president simply seeks a court ruling to restore his reputation.

Mosques That Serve, Surau That Educate

Amid rising concerns over youth delinquency, two Indonesian initiatives offer a complementary approach to character building by transforming places of worship into inclusive community hubs. The 'Gerakan Masjid Sejuta Pemuda' in Sukabumi focuses on welcoming young people through service and 24-hour accessibility, while the 'Smart Surau' programme in Padang revives the traditional role of the surau as a centre for continuous education and habit formation. The article argues that combining acceptance with sustained guidance is essential for nurturing the next generation.

Robot Trading in the Perspective of Fiqh Muamalah: Innovation or Investment Trap?

The rise of robot trading in Indonesia has sparked debate over its compliance with Islamic law, as many schemes have been linked to illegal investments promising unrealistic returns. From a fiqh muamalah perspective, the technology itself is permissible, but its application often involves prohibited elements such as gharar (uncertainty), tadlis (fraud), and maisir (speculation). Experts stress that such automated systems must operate with full transparency, legality, and adherence to Sharia principles to avoid becoming a financial trap for the public.

Government Targets Completion of 5,000 Suspension Bridges by End of 2026

The Indonesian government, in collaboration with the Army and local communities, is accelerating the construction of suspension bridges to improve connectivity in remote areas. Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya stated that 2,500 bridges are targeted for completion by August 2026, with a total of 5,000 expected by the end of the year. The initiative aims to provide isolated communities with safer access to education, healthcare, and other public services.

Reading a Child's Future Path Through Black and White Sheets

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a hidden congenital condition that can severely impair a child's ability to walk if not detected early. While physical checks and ultrasound are effective in the first months of life, an Anteroposterior Pelvis X-ray becomes the primary diagnostic tool once the hip bones begin to ossify. Timely diagnosis via radiography is crucial, as it determines whether treatment can be conservative or if major reconstructive surgery and extensive physiotherapy will be required.

Ministry of Social Affairs and ITB Visi Nusantara Strengthen Empowerment of Sekolah Rakyat Graduates

The Ministry of Social Affairs is exploring a collaboration with ITB Visi Nusantara to enhance community empowerment in villages and expand higher education access for graduates of the government's Sekolah Rakyat programme. The partnership aims to support the government's priority of breaking the intergenerational poverty chain by providing educational pathways and village-based development. Both parties have committed to following up on the cooperation, which includes deploying university graduates as community facilitators in impoverished villages.

Minister of Public Works: P3TGAI Programme Preserves Sustainability of Subak System in Bali

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo has stated that the Accelerated Programme for Improving Irrigation Water Management (P3TGAI) is crucial for preserving Bali's traditional subak system. The community-based infrastructure programme for the 2026 fiscal year will be implemented across 78 locations in six regencies, directly involving farmer groups in construction and management. The initiative aims to strengthen irrigation reliability, support local food security, and enhance the agricultural sector's resilience to climate change.

Addressing Beneficiary Dissatisfaction in the Free Nutritious Meal Programme

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG), a key government initiative to combat stunting and improve child nutrition, faces growing dissatisfaction among beneficiaries over food quality and portion sizes. The programme's success hinges on addressing weaknesses in supervision, ensuring equitable distribution to remote regions, and leveraging local food producers to boost economic empowerment. Transparency and accountability in the use of state funds are deemed essential to restore public trust and maximise the programme's long-term impact on human development.

Pekanbaru City Government Extends Free Education Programme to Private and Religious Schools

The Pekanbaru city government has expanded its free education initiative to cover 23 private junior high schools and 15 Islamic junior high schools (MTs). Mayor Agung Nugroho stated the 'Zero Dropout' programme guarantees that no child will be denied education due to financial constraints or limited public school capacity. The local government will fully fund tuition for students enrolled in partner private and religious institutions.

BPJS Kesehatan Confirms No Limit on Hospitalisation Days for Patients

BPJS Kesehatan has clarified that participants in the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme are entitled to inpatient care based on medical necessity, without any restriction on the length of stay. The agency also addressed misconceptions about a supposed three-day limit and highlighted mechanisms for when standard wards are full. Additionally, it promoted digital tools and on-site officers to improve access to hospital bed availability and patient assistance.

IHSG Opens Lower, Tracking Wall Street, as Asian Markets Rebound Mixed

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened 10 points lower on Thursday, mirroring overnight losses on Wall Street driven by a continued sell-off in semiconductor stocks. Asian markets presented a mixed picture, rebounding from a global tech-led rout amid concerns that the AI-driven rally may have overheated. Meanwhile, minutes from the Bank of Japan's latest meeting revealed board members proposed further rate hikes after the central bank raised its benchmark rate to a 31-year high of 1 percent.

Purbaya to Offer Tax Incentives for Low-Income Subsidised Flats, Here's the Leak

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that the Tapera Committee has agreed to use a Government-Borne VAT (PPN DTP) mechanism as a transitional solution to support subsidised flat financing for low-income communities. The fiscal support aims to maintain affordability and accelerate the provision of housing without compromising fiscal sustainability. The committee also evaluated BP Tapera's 2026 performance and discussed follow-ups to President Prabowo's directives on speeding up subsidised flat construction.

Volatility Remains High, IHSG Briefly Opens Lower Before Rising 0.35%

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) experienced early volatility on Thursday, initially dipping into the red before rebounding 0.35% to 5,904.28. Market sentiment was buoyed by MSCI's decision to retain Indonesia's Emerging Market status, though concerns persist over pending evaluations on market transparency and coordinated trading. External pressures remain from a strong US dollar and anticipation of key US inflation data, which could reinforce expectations of prolonged high interest rates.

Indonesia's Competitiveness Ranking Drops Sharply Amid Structural Weaknesses

Indonesia has fallen to 48th place in the 2026 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, continuing a two-year slide from 40th position. The decline reflects worsening government and business efficiency, inadequate infrastructure, and a reliance on state spending to artificially boost economic growth. The report warns that these structural weaknesses are causing Indonesia to lose ground to regional peers like Vietnam in the race for high-quality foreign direct investment.

Russian Official Predicts Emergence of Non-Nuclear Weapons with Nuclear-Level Destructive Power

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has forecast the development of new non-nuclear weapons that could eventually match the destructive capability of nuclear arms. Speaking at a Moscow forum, he warned that global security is deteriorating and that nuclear deterrence remains the sole safeguard against a world war. Peskov also noted that such deterrence cannot prevent the outbreak of regional conflicts, which are currently on the rise.

Democrat Elite Hits Back at PDIP's Deddy: Is AHY Too Right to Be Refuted?

The Democratic Party's Yan Harahap has rebuked PDIP's Deddy Sitorus for labelling Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono's (AHY) call for constructive criticism as incitement. Harahap argued that AHY's statement was a moderate reminder to prioritise national interests over partisan politics. The exchange highlights ongoing friction between the two parties regarding the role of the opposition in a healthy democracy.

Airlangga Reveals Bali to Host Three International Financial Centres

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has disclosed plans to establish up to three International Financial Centres (IFC) in Bali. The proposed locations include the Kura Kura and Sanur Special Economic Zones, with a third site yet to be determined. The initiative aims to attract massive investment through competitive regulations and tax incentives potentially as low as zero per cent.

RANS IPO Only Releases 20% of Shares, How Did It Pass the New IDX Rule?

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has clarified that RANS Entertainment's initial public offering, which releases only 20% of its shares, was approved because its listing application was received before the new 25% free float rule took effect. The IDX also noted that including existing shareholders who meet the criteria, the company's post-IPO free float will reach approximately 28.85%. The celebrity-backed firm, majority-owned by Raffi Ahmad, counts several prominent business and political figures among its pre-IPO shareholders.

Trump's Fury Peaks: 'All Jews Are Sick of Netanyahu'

A new book reveals that US President Donald Trump expressed intense frustration with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a 2025 phone call, bluntly stating that 'all Jews are sick of' him. The remarks, detailed in 'Regime Change: Inside the Imperial Presidency of Donald Trump', occurred amid Trump's efforts to broker a Gaza ceasefire. Trump reportedly made the comments while senior advisers Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were also on the line.

Three Former Customs Officials to Stand Trial Next Week for Bribery and Gratification

Three former high-ranking officials from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise are set to stand trial next week over alleged bribery and gratification totalling more than IDR 71 billion. The defendants, including a former director and intelligence officers, are accused of receiving illicit payments to expedite import processes. The case follows the conviction of three individuals from Blueray Cargo Group who were found guilty of paying the bribes.

Boni Hargens: PRESISI Drives Work Culture Transformation in the National Police

Senior political observer Boni Hargens has stated that the PRESISI vision is driving a comprehensive transformation of performance and work culture within the Indonesian National Police. The concept, championed by Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, is designed to address contemporary challenges through predictive measures, accountability, and fair transparency. Hargens noted the reform encompasses organisational strengthening, operations, public service, and internal oversight.

Economic Recap: Finfluencer Rules to MBG Governance

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a new regulation governing financial influencers to enhance consumer protection. Meanwhile, the government is preparing transport stimulus for the holiday season, and the National Economic Council has advised a gradual refinement of the free nutritious meal programme's management.

Yesterday: Repatriation of Indonesian Body from Malaysia to Vocational Education Cooperation with China

A roundup of key news from Wednesday includes the repatriation of an Indonesian murder victim's body from Malaysia, China's focus on vocational training in bilateral education cooperation, and the Religious Affairs Ministry's commitment to improving Hajj health services. Other stories cover the North Sumatra Governor's support for a regional scout jamboree and the return of Hajj pilgrims to Banjarmasin.

Tax Office Seizes 518 Assets from Delinquent Taxpayers Across Java

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has seized 518 assets from tax delinquents across West and East Java during a coordinated enforcement week, with an estimated total value of Rp 78.96 billion. The action targets taxpayers who failed to settle their obligations despite receiving formal warnings and forced collection letters. Officials emphasised that the move aims to strengthen compliance and will proceed to public auction if outstanding debts remain unpaid.

China's Unstoppable Progress: IMF Partners with Beijing to Measure Digital Economy

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and China's National Bureau of Statistics have signed a new memorandum of understanding to develop methods for measuring the digital economy, including artificial intelligence and data assets. The agreement will help China align its national statistical system with the UN's updated System of National Accounts 2025, allowing intangible assets to be counted as part of economic strength. This collaboration is seen as crucial for accurately reflecting the contribution of the technology sector to China's GDP.

DPR Deputy Chair Urges Large Islamic Boarding Schools to Manage Free Nutritious Meal Kitchens

Abdul Wachid, Deputy Chair of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has proposed that Islamic boarding schools with thousands of students be prioritised to manage their own Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) kitchens. The initiative aims to empower the institutions by upgrading their existing facilities to serve as official nutritional fulfilment service units. He requested that data collection be carried out for students in madrasahs and boarding school environments to facilitate the programme's expansion.

Komnas HAM on Taufik Hidayat's Abuse and Confinement of Girlfriend: Extremely Inhumane!

The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has condemned the alleged abuse and confinement of a woman by Taufik Hidayat in Bandung as 'extremely inhumane'. The commission is urging law enforcement to ensure a thorough legal process that provides a deterrent effect and guarantees comprehensive recovery for the victim. Police are also investigating claims of other potential victims following social media reports.

BNPB Repairs Emergency Infrastructure in Sigi Following Earthquake

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is undertaking emergency infrastructure repairs in Sigi, Central Sulawesi, including installing gabions and restoring clean water networks. The region has experienced over a thousand aftershocks since a major earthquake struck on 16 June 2026. Relief efforts are being supported by provincial funding and include the distribution of further aid such as mobile kitchens and family tents.

Law Must Not Be Swayed by Social Media Sentiment, Says Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Nezar Patria has cautioned that law enforcement must remain objective and not be driven by sentiment on social media. He highlighted the global phenomenon of digital public spaces intensifying public pressure on legal processes. Patria also warned that platform algorithms, which lack fact-checking mechanisms, make the digital sphere vulnerable to hoaxes and misperceptions.

Dasco to Lead Political Safari Next Week to Discuss Electoral Thresholds

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission II will embark on a political safari next week, led by Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, to gather input on the draft Election Bill. The delegation will consult political parties without parliamentary seats, civil society, and academics on crucial issues. Key topics include the parliamentary threshold, presidential threshold, and the configuration of electoral districts.

Drought Affects 16,258 Residents Across Six Regions in Central Java

A prolonged dry season in Central Java has left 16,258 people across six districts without adequate clean water, prompting the provincial government to distribute emergency supplies. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has delivered 654,000 litres of water to affected villages, with Klaten Regency receiving the largest share. Authorities have also placed eight additional regions on alert status as the drought is forecast to persist until September.

Online Trader Tax to Take Effect in July, Turnover Below Rp 500 Million Exempted

Indonesia will begin collecting income tax from online merchants via e-commerce platforms starting July 2026, though sellers with annual turnover below Rp 500 million will be exempt. The tax, a 0.5% final income tax on gross turnover for those earning between Rp 500 million and Rp 4.8 billion, is not a new levy but a shift in collection mechanism to the platforms themselves. The Directorate General of Taxes assures the system will simplify compliance and prevent double taxation.

Natural Selection Begins: Not All Issuers Will Survive on the Indonesia Stock Exchange

New regulations requiring a higher minimum free float on the Indonesia Stock Exchange are expected to trigger a wave of voluntary delistings. Market analysts suggest that companies with highly concentrated ownership and limited public liquidity, such as SUPR and EDGE, may find going private more strategically viable than complying with the new rules. The policy aims to improve market quality and increase the number of shares genuinely available for public trading.

Alibaba Sues US Government Over Pentagon's 'Chinese Military' Blacklist

Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba has filed a lawsuit against the US government after being added to a Pentagon blacklist of companies allegedly linked to China's military. The lawsuit, filed in a California federal court, argues the designation is baseless and has caused irreparable reputational and business damage. The move is part of a broader expansion of the US blacklist, which now includes 188 entities such as Baidu, BYD, and NIO.

Deputy Minister Reveals Strategy to Advance Non-Mining and Renewable Energy Downstreaming

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Todotua Pasaribu, has outlined the government's strategy to expand downstreaming beyond the mining sector into agriculture, fisheries, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable economic growth, with a target of generating up to three million jobs in 2025. The government is also focusing on regulatory improvements and fiscal incentives to attract investment in the green energy sector.

IKOSINDO Holds 3rd National Congress, Optimistic Sharia Cooperatives Will Become Pillar of Indonesia's Economic Independence

The Indonesian Sharia Cooperative Association (IKOSINDO) convened its 3rd National Congress in Bogor, focusing on strengthening synergy and professionalism to face global crises. The organisation expressed optimism that sharia cooperatives will play a vital role in national economic independence over the next decade. IKOSINDO also called for stronger government support and legitimacy to optimise sharia economic growth and public welfare.