Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 June 2026

Showing 1,401-1,450 of 1,504 articles

Mystery of Iran's 'Jellyfish' Drone Formation

A rescued US F-15 pilot has described witnessing a bizarre 'jellyfish' formation of Iranian drones moments before his jet was shot down over Iran in April 2026. The pilot's account, which likened the interconnected swarm to a floating minefield, has sparked intense debate within US intelligence circles. The incident marks the first loss of a US fighter jet over Iranian territory during the conflict, with early reports suggesting the novel drone formation enabled the shootdown.

WWII-Era Mortar Found and Safely Disposed of by Police in Papua

A mortar shell believed to be a remnant of World War II was discovered by residents in Jayapura Regency, Papua. The police bomb squad (Gegana) was deployed to evacuate the device, which was deemed a significant threat to public safety. The munition was successfully removed and transported to a remote location for controlled destruction.

UI Presents Smart and Sustainable City Development at THE GSDC 2026

The University of Indonesia (UI) presented its vision for sustainable urban development at the Times Higher Education Global Sustainable Development Congress 2026, emphasising the shift from mere technological sophistication to inclusive governance. UI's Vice Rector highlighted the need for AI-driven planning, climate-resilient infrastructure, and cross-sector collaboration to build equitable smart cities. The university also used the global forum to promote international partnerships and green innovations.

Luhut Reveals Why Poverty Rose Despite 5% Economic Growth

National Economic Council Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has attributed the rise in poverty despite steady economic growth to factors such as price increases and inefficiencies. He stressed the urgency of capitalising on Indonesia's demographic bonus, which he believes will end within a decade. The remarks follow President Prabowo Subianto's criticism of an economic anomaly where GDP growth coincided with an increase in poor citizens and a shrinking middle class.

Minister: Workers and Companies Must Be Strategic Partners to Face Challenges

Minister of Manpower Yassierli has urged workers and companies to evolve into strategic partners to navigate the changing world of work. He stressed that industrial relations must move beyond mere harmony towards a transformative collaboration that boosts competitiveness and worker welfare. The Minister highlighted Jasa Raharja's new collective labour agreement as a model for building a collaborative, adaptive, and sustainable work environment.

Single-Export Policy to Strengthen Indonesia's Bargaining Position in Global Commodity Trade

The Indonesian government is advancing a single-export policy for strategic commodities like palm oil and coal to enhance national competitiveness. Officials and experts argue that consolidating exports will improve efficiency, transparency, and the country's influence over global pricing mechanisms. Stakeholders have cautioned that the policy must be carefully designed to balance competitiveness with business certainty and support the national downstreaming agenda.

Indonesia Ready to Enter New Phase of Credible Carbon Market, Says Forestry Minister

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has declared Indonesia's readiness to implement a credible carbon market, underpinned by new regulations and the upcoming issuance of over 30 million tonnes of CO2e in carbon credits. The government will also launch a national Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK) to enhance transparency and accountability. The Minister called for global collaboration, urging corporations and financial institutions to integrate high-integrity carbon credits into their climate strategies.

China Unveils Portable Laser Weapons to Counter Drone Threats

China has showcased new portable laser weapons designed for individual soldiers to counter the growing threat of drones on the battlefield. The Lijian II and III systems, weighing up to 30kg, can be carried in a backpack and are capable of burning a drone in four seconds. The development reflects a global military shift towards cost-effective anti-drone solutions, influenced by the war in Ukraine and recent Middle Eastern conflicts.

Provincial Road in Agam Collapses, Cutting Off Access to Bukittinggi

A section of a provincial road in Agam Regency, West Sumatra, has collapsed following heavy rain, severing the main route for four-wheeled vehicles to Bukittinggi. The road failure, which occurred in the Labuah Sampiak area, has left a 15-metre-deep chasm, with authorities warning that no alternative route is currently passable for cars. Local officials are coordinating with the provincial government to expedite repairs and construct drainage channels to prevent further erosion.

JPPI Warns Centralised PAUD-SMA Management in Education Bill Could Revive New Order Bureaucracy

The Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI) has cautioned that a proposal allowing the central government to directly manage schools from early childhood to upper secondary levels could lead to a bloated and sluggish bureaucracy reminiscent of the New Order era. The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education argues the plan, part of the National Education System Bill (RUU Sisdiknas), aims to create model schools and address regional disparities through 'asymmetric decentralisation'. Regional leaders and education officials remain divided, with some warning it undermines local autonomy and ignores local contexts.

Sido Muncul Partners with Perdami to Operate on 100 Cataract Patients in Cirebon

PT Industri Jamu Dan Farmasi Sido Muncul Tbk has collaborated with the Indonesian Ophthalmologists Association (Perdami) and a Cirebon hospital to provide free cataract surgery for 100 patients. The initiative, part of the company's 75th-anniversary social service programme, aims to reduce blindness caused by cataracts, a condition affecting approximately one per cent of Indonesia's population. Local health officials praised the effort for helping to clear lengthy surgery waiting lists, which can extend up to a year.

Man Loses Motorcycle to Sabu in Dating Trap Scheme in West Jakarta

A man in Kalideres, West Jakarta, fell victim to a violent robbery after being lured by a woman on a dating pretext. The mastermind, known as Pedaw, was arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport's cargo terminal after police traced the stolen motorcycle, which he had exchanged for two grams of crystal methamphetamine and cash.

Hope for Recovery: Bandung Confinement Victim YTR Dreams of Selling Ayam Geprek After Healing

YTR, a woman from Bandung Regency who was found in a distressing state after allegedly being confined and abused for years, is showing signs of mental recovery. Her family reports she has begun to accept her past and is making plans for the future, including starting an online business selling 'ayam geprek'. The family continues to hope for justice as the legal process unfolds.

Jakarta Tax Agency Brings Vehicle Tax Services Closer Through Samsat Outlet at Jakarta Fair

The DKI Jakarta Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda) has set up a Samsat outlet at the Jakarta Fair (PRJ) to make it easier for residents to pay their motor vehicle tax. The initiative coincides with an administrative penalty waiver programme celebrating Jakarta's 499th anniversary, running from 1 June to 31 August 2026. Officials hope the convenient location and penalty relief will boost tax compliance and support regional development.

Mount Semeru Erupts Three Times This Morning, Ash Column Reaches 900 Metres

Mount Semeru in Lumajang, East Java, experienced a series of three eruptions on Thursday morning, with the highest ash column reaching 900 metres above the summit. The Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) reported the eruptions occurred between 05:44 and 06:51 WIB. The volcano, the highest on Java Island, emitted white to grey ash drifting southwest.

Coal Prices Worsen as India Delivers Grim News for Indonesia

Global coal prices have slumped to a two-month low, driven by India's policy shift to replace imported coal with domestic supplies in its power plants. As the world's second-largest thermal coal importer and a key buyer of Indonesian coal, India's move threatens to significantly reduce demand for Indonesian exports. The decline is compounded by rising renewable energy generation and a drop in Indian imports from Indonesia by 21% in the first four months of the year.

UBK Investigates Bribery Case, Warns Student Leaders Could Face Expulsion

Bung Karno University (UBK) is conducting an ethics investigation into the student executive body (BEM) of its Law Faculty after its chairman admitted to accepting Rp 20 million from police intermediaries. The university's vice rector stated that sanctions, including the possibility of expulsion, will be decided transparently once the probe concludes in early July. Students have demanded the dismissal of those involved and the revocation of scholarships.

Eight Chinese Nationals Caught Working Illegally on Restaurant Renovation Project in Surabaya Mall

Immigration authorities in Surabaya have deported eight Chinese nationals after they were discovered working illegally on a restaurant renovation project within a shopping mall. The individuals were found to have violated their stay permits by engaging in technical and supervisory work not authorised by their visas. The case underscores Indonesia's commitment to enforcing immigration laws while remaining open to foreign investment and compliant skilled workers.

Unpatti Partners with US Firm to Develop AI for Education and Innovation

Universitas Pattimura (Unpatti) in Ambon has entered into a strategic partnership with US-based technology company G-Mango Inc to advance the use of artificial intelligence in education, research, and innovation. The collaboration aims to boost human resource capacity in Maluku and across Eastern Indonesia by developing AI systems for communication and data analysis. The initiative is expected to strengthen Unpatti's digital transformation and its role as a centre for science and technology in the region.

A Direct Blow to Netanyahu: Iran Endures, Trump Reverses Course

The temporary US-Iran deal is seen as a severe political blow to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, potentially dismantling his long-cultivated image as the indispensable leader who could align Washington's Iran policy with Israel's interests. Analysts suggest Netanyahu is now forced to accept President Trump's push for a diplomatic resolution, with his previous political asset of US influence becoming a major liability. The prime minister faces a difficult position, caught between Trump's desire to end the conflict and his domestic base's opposition to concessions.

After US-Iran Deal, Tens of Millions of Oil Barrels Transit Strait of Hormuz

Following a US-Iran agreement, approximately 35 million barrels of oil have begun moving through the Strait of Hormuz, signalling a recovery in global energy trade. Confirmed daily shipments have risen to 4.8 million barrels, though this remains well below the pre-conflict level of 15 million barrels per day. The easing of maritime security threats and temporary US sanctions relief are expected to stabilise energy supply chains and ease import cost pressures for countries like Indonesia.

Tens of Millions of Barrels of Oil Begin Transiting the Strait of Hormuz

Approximately 35 million barrels of oil have begun moving through the Strait of Hormuz following a US-Iran agreement to reopen the strategic waterway. The resumption of shipments, which had been halted for over three months, is expected to ease global energy supply chains and help stabilise prices. While confirmed flows have risen to 4.8 million barrels per day, volumes remain well below the pre-conflict level of 15 million barrels per day.

Sahroni Demands Layered Charges for Taufik Hidayat, Abuser of Girlfriend

House Deputy Speaker Ahmad Sahroni has called for a life sentence and layered charges against Taufik Hidayat, who brutally abused and confined his girlfriend in Bandung. Sahroni argued the acts constitute severe human rights violations and urged the Human Rights Minister to assist the victim. The victim's family is also demanding the maximum penalty after she suffered permanent physical damage from nearly three years of abuse.

NTB Corn Farmers Complain of Excessive Tax Burden

Corn farmers in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) have protested against multiple taxes levied on their harvests, including a recently suspended 1.5 percent income tax on the government purchase price. The farmers, who claim the deductions totalled over IDR 4 billion, met with Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, who agreed that staple food commodities should be exempt from value-added tax and pledged to pursue restitution for the amounts already collected.

Islamic Boarding Schools with Thousands of Students Prioritised for Nutrition Service Units

The House of Representatives has urged that large Islamic boarding schools with two to three thousand students be given priority to manage their own nutrition service units under the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The initiative aims to empower the schools by allowing them to produce their own raw materials, such as chillies, vegetables, and eggs. The scheme is expected to benefit the students and the wider boarding school community.

MSCI Review Rattles Market, Foreign Investors Flee with Rp1.17 Trillion

Foreign investors dumped Indonesian equities on Wednesday, booking a net sell of Rp1.17 trillion as MSCI extended its review of the country's market classification. The decision to maintain Indonesia's emerging market status until November 2026, while warning of a potential downgrade, triggered a broad sell-off, particularly in banking, petrochemical, and mining stocks. The Jakarta Composite Index plunged 3.56% amid the uncertainty.

Figure Who Helped Taufik Hidayat Surrender Refuses Rp250 Million Reward, Asks It Be Given to Victim

Dadang Ahyar Ismail, the former employer of fugitive Taufik Hidayat, has declined a Rp250 million reward offered by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi for information leading to the suspect's arrest. Dadang stated that if he were entitled to the prize, he would request it be handed directly to the victim of the kidnapping and abuse case. He played a key role in persuading Taufik to surrender after the suspect contacted him for advice.

SAR team finds toddler swept away by culvert during rain in Batam

A joint search and rescue team recovered the body of a two-year-old boy who was swept into a culvert during heavy rain in Batam, Riau Islands. The victim was found on the third day of the search operation and handed over to his family. Authorities have urged parents to closely supervise young children, especially near hazardous drainage areas.

Airlangga Demands End to Rolling Blackouts by Late June

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has urged state electricity firm PLN to resolve the rolling blackouts affecting Java by the end of June, citing their significant impact on the economy. The government has coordinated with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to address the supply disruptions. Separately, the House of Representatives expressed optimism that the power cuts would not recur in the coming weeks following cross-agency talks involving the Attorney General's Office and the State Intelligence Agency.

BNPB: 4,245 Families in West Lombok Face Water Crisis After a Month Without Rain

A prolonged dry spell has triggered a clean water crisis affecting 4,245 families across five sub-districts in West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reported that the month-long absence of rain has severely disrupted daily water supplies. Local disaster agencies are deploying water tankers and coordinating cross-sectoral logistics to mitigate the worsening drought conditions.

Rare Omission: US Secretary of State Skips Israel on Middle East Tour

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's decision to omit Israel from his Middle East itinerary has sparked speculation of growing friction between the Trump administration and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The move is seen by analysts as a signal that Washington no longer views Israel as central to negotiations aimed at resolving regional conflicts. The snub comes amid open disagreements over handling Iran and follows a US-Iran peace deal that Netanyahu's allies have vehemently rejected.

Gold Prices Battered, Latest Forecast Adds to the Horror

Gold prices have plunged below the psychological level of US$4,000 per troy ounce, driven by a strengthening US dollar and heightened expectations of further interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. Analysts have slashed their price forecasts, with ING cutting its third-quarter 2026 projection to US$4,300, while warning that the precious metal may enter a prolonged period of consolidation. Market attention is now focused on upcoming US inflation data, which could intensify the pressure on bullion.

Third case of H5N1 bird flu detected on mainland Australia

A third case of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza has been confirmed on the Australian mainland, detected in a migratory giant petrel in South Australia. Authorities stated the detection was anticipated and that preparedness plans developed over several years are now being implemented. The federal government has allocated over A$113 million to fund national preparedness measures against an H5N1 outbreak.

Palace Responds to Deaths of Participants in Military-Style Training for Village Cooperative and Fishermen's Programme

The Indonesian Presidential Palace has addressed the deaths of three participants during basic military training for the Koperasi Desa/Kelurahan Merah Putih (KDKMP) and Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) programmes. Deputy Minister of State Secretary Juri Ardiantoro stated that mitigation and evaluation measures are being prepared, but the programme will continue. The deaths have prompted criticism from Parliament and civil society groups, including Amnesty International, who question the militaristic nature of the training for civilian cooperative managers.

Karawang Transport Chief Examined Over Alleged Sexual Misconduct with Minor

The Karawang Regency Personnel and Human Resources Development Agency (BKPSDM) has summoned the Head of the Transportation Department, Muhana, for questioning regarding allegations of sexual misconduct that reportedly resulted in a teenager's pregnancy. The official has complied with the summons and provided initial clarification, though the agency states further investigation is required before any conclusions can be drawn. Muhana has publicly denied the allegations and expressed willingness to undergo testing to prove his innocence.

Papua New Guinea Suspends Australian Poultry Imports After H5N1 Bird Flu Detection

Papua New Guinea has suspended imports of Australian poultry products, including eggs, following the detection of H5N1 bird flu cases in Western Australia. The suspension, effective from 22 June, comes as Australia's federal government coordinates with PNG to lift the trade restrictions, while maintaining the country remains free of highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry according to international standards. The ban poses a significant economic concern, as PNG accounted for 60 million Australian dollars of Australia's record 133 million Australian dollars in chicken meat exports last financial year.

Prabowo Again Hits Out at Those Opposing Free Nutritious Meals Programme

President Prabowo Subianto has once more criticised opponents of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, insisting that hunger and malnutrition are the nation's most urgent problems. Speaking at a farmers' and fishers' event in Gorontalo, he challenged detractors to ask rural communities and children whether the programme is needed. Prabowo also took aim at intellectuals who he claimed prioritise other issues over hunger, warning that global food shortages are escalating.

The 'Elopement' Tradition of Pedawa Village in Buleleng

The Melaib Ngemaling tradition in Pedawa Village, Buleleng, is a customary form of elopement that, despite its name meaning 'run and steal', is a consensual and honourable marriage procedure. Unlike other forms of elopement, this practice requires prior agreement between the couple and involves a structured ritual where the man 'steals' the woman from her home. The tradition reflects the Bali Aga community's values of courage, responsibility, and social unity, though it is now often performed as a simulation to preserve cultural heritage.

Coordinating Minister AHY Affirms Santri's Right to Study in Peace and Dignity

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has reaffirmed the government's commitment to providing safe and comfortable educational facilities for Islamic boarding school students. During a visit to the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, he inspected reconstruction efforts and stressed the importance of proper sanitation and clean water access. The minister expressed hope that improved facilities would foster a conducive learning environment for character development and religious study.

Nickel Industry Urges Government to Ensure One-Door Export Policy Does Not Deter Investment

The Indonesian Nickel Industry Forum has called on the government to ensure the new one-door export policy for strategic commodities does not disrupt existing long-term contracts or deter USD 20 billion in planned investment for 2026โ€“2028. Industry players also highlighted the need for pricing flexibility, logistics efficiency, and market diversification beyond China to maintain competitiveness.

Calls for Chemical Castration for Taufik Hidayat in YTR Brutal Torture Case

Indonesian lawmakers are demanding the maximum legal sanctions, including chemical castration, for Taufik Hidayat following his arrest for the brutal torture and false imprisonment of a woman in Bandung. The case has drawn widespread condemnation, with officials citing the perpetrator's history of repeated violence, including against his former wife. Police have charged the suspect under the new Criminal Code, with legislators urging the application of multiple articles to ensure the heaviest possible sentence.

Rupiah and JCI Face Severe Test from the US Today, What's Next?

Indonesia's financial markets are bracing for continued volatility as the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) plunged 3.56% following MSCI's decision to retain the country's emerging market status while flagging concerns over share ownership transparency. The rupiah is also under heavy pressure, weakening towards the psychological level of Rp18,000 per US dollar amid a strengthening greenback and hawkish signals from the Federal Reserve. Global headwinds, including a tech stock sell-off on Wall Street and falling oil prices, are adding to the negative sentiment.

Magnitude 6.9 Earthquake Strikes Japan

A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.9 struck off the coast of northern Japan's Iwate Prefecture. The Japan Meteorological Agency reported the quake occurred at a depth of 50 kilometres, prompting the temporary suspension of Tohoku Shinkansen services. No tsunami warning was issued, but the Prime Minister's office established a task force to manage the impact.

Psychologist Shares Ways to End Unhealthy and Dangerous Relationships

A clinical psychologist has outlined crucial steps for individuals seeking to leave controlling and abusive relationships, emphasising that personal safety must be the top priority. The advice follows a recent case in Bandung where a woman was allegedly held captive and tortured by her boyfriend, resulting in permanent disability. The psychologist stressed the importance of building a support network, setting firm boundaries, and seeking professional counselling to safely exit such coercive situations.

Ukraine Strikes Moscow Refinery, Disrupts Russia's Energy Lifeline

A major Ukrainian drone attack has severely damaged the Moscow oil refinery, a critical fuel supplier for the Russian capital, forcing it offline for at least six months. The disruption is exacerbating a growing domestic fuel crisis, with reports of shortages, price spikes, and long queues across multiple Russian time zones. The Russian government is now considering emergency measures, including a diesel export ban and fuel imports, to stabilise the domestic market.

Public to Choose Logo for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day for the First Time

For the first time, the Indonesian government is inviting the public to vote for the official logo of the 81st Independence Day commemoration. President Prabowo Subianto directed the initiative to foster a sense of national ownership, with five finalist designs available for public polling from 24 to 28 June 2026. The chosen logo will accompany the theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur' (Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia).

Fortitude of YTR, Bandung Confinement Victim: 'I Have Made Peace with Everything'

YTR, the victim of a years-long confinement case in Bandung, has expressed a resilient determination to rebuild her life, stating she has found peace and acceptance. Her aunt revealed the victim is showing positive mental progress and plans to start an online food business. The arrest of the alleged perpetrator, Taufik Hidayat, has reportedly brought the victim a sense of calm as she awaits justice.

Tax Office Exposes Business Owners' Tricks to Retain 0.5% MSME Tax Rate

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has uncovered a scheme where business owners establish multiple limited liability companies to keep their turnover below the threshold for the 0.5% final income tax rate meant for micro, small, and medium enterprises. The tax office found individuals owning dozens of firms, with revenues artificially declining in older entities as new ones are created. This practice has prompted the government to revoke the MSME tax facility for PT and CV business entities under new regulations.

Gerindra Defends Gibran Over UBK Student's Claim of Receiving Money After Meeting Vice President

A Gerindra Party official has defended Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka following a student leader's admission that he received Rp20 million linked to a demonstration and subsequent meeting with the Vice President. The party insists Gibran was not involved in the payment, while Bung Karno University has suspended the student pending an ethics investigation. The university claims the money originated from a police officer via a university alumnus.

DKI Jakarta Roundup: Vehicle Tax Amnesty to Overturned Lorry

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung encourages residents to take advantage of a vehicle tax amnesty programme running until August, warning it may not be offered annually. The provincial government also announced plans to build 11 large-capacity apartment blocks by 2027 and is evaluating the Jakarta International Marathon following a participant's death.