Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 June 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,504 articles

Indonesia offers up to 50 percent discounts to boost holiday spending

The Indonesian government has launched a nationwide discount programme offering up to 50 percent off at 80,000 outlets to stimulate domestic tourism and spending during the school holidays. The initiative, involving 800 brands across 24 provinces, aims to broaden the economic impact of tourism by supporting retailers, MSMEs, and the creative economy. Officials hope the campaign will encourage more Indonesians to travel locally, thereby boosting regional economic growth.

US Allies in the Gulf Fear Trump-Iran Deal Could Become a New Source of Trouble

Arab Gulf leaders are increasingly anxious that a US-brokered peace deal with Iran could destabilise regional security by emboldening Tehran. The draft agreement, which includes a formal role for Iran in monitoring the Strait of Hormuz, has shaken confidence in Washington's commitment to its allies. Gulf states are now considering diversifying their defence partnerships and seeking direct accommodation with Iran.

Interpreting True Independence in Indonesia's Digital Age

An opinion piece argues that the concept of Indonesian independence must be redefined for the digital era, where sovereignty is challenged not by military force but by control over data, algorithms, and artificial intelligence. The author contends that the new strategic space for power is digital, and true freedom now means achieving technological sovereignty and self-determination in the virtual realm.

88 Percent of Business Players Change Capital Strategy Due to Global Turmoil

A new global survey reveals that 88 percent of business players and investors have altered their capital allocation strategies in response to heightened economic uncertainty. Geopolitical volatility and rising interest rates are driving a greater need for working capital access, particularly for Indonesian firms seeking to expand exports. HSBC has launched a digital trade finance service to help businesses secure faster funding amid these challenging conditions.

Higher Education Minister Reports to Prabowo on Workforce Preparation for Downstreaming Industries

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto has been instructed by President Prabowo Subianto to ensure university graduates meet the workforce demands of the nation's accelerated downstreaming industries. The meeting focused on aligning educational output with the specific expert needs of sectors ranging from mineral processing and pharmaceuticals to aquaculture. Brian warned that the rapid industrial expansion must not be hampered by a shortage of qualified personnel or a skills mismatch.

Income Distribution in Islam: Towards a Holistic Welfare

The article argues that Islamic principles of income distribution offer a relevant solution to modern economic inequality in Indonesia. It posits that by combining instruments like zakat with a focus on both material and non-material well-being, Islam promotes a 'holistic welfare' that seeks justice and broad prosperity rather than mere income equality.

Jakarta Anniversary: Pramono Anung Grants Free Access to 11 Museums

The Jakarta provincial government is offering free admission to 11 museums and cultural sites for three days in June to celebrate the city's 499th anniversary. Governor Pramono Anung stated the initiative aims to broaden public access to cultural and historical spaces. The programme is part of a wider series of anniversary concessions that also includes free public transport and entry to Ancol.

Reason, Morality, and the Bureaucratic Labyrinth

This essay uses the lens of critical philosophy to compare Dostoevsky's 'Crime and Punishment' and Kafka's 'The Trial', examining how both novels dissect the crisis of modern rational subjectivity. It contrasts Raskolnikov's internal moral collapse from utilitarian overreach with Josef K.'s external annihilation by an opaque, instrumentalised bureaucratic system. The analysis reveals two faces of the same modern crisis: the failure of reason to self-criticise, whether from individual hubris or systemic totalisation.

BPJPH Records 7,500 Nutrition Service Units Nationwide Have Obtained Halal Certificates

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) reports that 7,500 Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) units have secured halal certification, though this represents only a fraction of the total. The agency is actively coordinating with the National Nutrition Agency to facilitate the certification process, which is a legal requirement under the Halal Product Assurance Law. Officials note that many SPPGs have prioritised quantity over quality but are now being urged to comply with mandatory halal and hygiene standards.

Bahlil: Masela Gas Project Construction to Begin in 2027

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that construction of the Abadi Masela gas project in Maluku is targeted to commence in 2027. The long-delayed project, valued at approximately US$20 billion, is considered crucial for strengthening national energy security. Production is expected to begin between 2029 and 2030.

Rubio: Trump Has All Options if Iran Fails to Reach Agreement

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that President Donald Trump retains all options should Iran fail to agree to terms, though diplomacy remains the preferred path. His comments follow the remote signing of a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran, which halts military conflict and sets a 60-day timeline for nuclear negotiations. The preliminary agreement also addresses the lifting of a US naval blockade and the restoration of shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

Gen Z: From Depression to Resistance

A recent analysis argues that Generation Z in Indonesia is facing a severe mental health crisis driven by systemic pressures from a secular-capitalist system. The article suggests that their accumulated anxiety and scepticism could transform into a powerful ideological resistance, with Islam offered as a comprehensive solution to restore their identity and secure their future.

GERD in Infants Can Persist into Adulthood, Do Not Ignore

A paediatric gastroenterohepatology consultant warns that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in infants can continue into adulthood if not properly managed. The condition, which goes beyond normal spitting up, can cause feeding refusal and hinder weight gain due to oesophageal irritation. Premature infants and children with conditions like cerebral palsy are at higher risk.

AGO Extends Detention of Dadan Hindayana and Others in Free Meals Corruption Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has extended the detention of former National Nutrition Agency head Dadan Hindayana and two deputies for another 40 days. They are suspects in a corruption case involving the management of the flagship free meals programme, which has a budget of Rp268 trillion for 2026. Investigators allege the suspects manipulated partner verifications to channel projects to affiliated, unqualified foundations.

Yemeni Citizen Eman Ahmed Earns 106th Doctoral Degree from UMJ

Eman Ahmed Mohammed Abdulatef Alshameri has been awarded a doctorate in Islamic Education Management from the University of Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ), becoming the 106th doctoral graduate of its postgraduate school. Her dissertation focused on developing a model for women's leadership performance in public schools in Yemen based on Islamic principles. The research highlighted challenges such as limited training and weak institutional support, proposing a framework built on four pillars including continuous training and administrative empowerment.

Rebels Print New Currency to Pay Civil Servants Amid Sudan's Chaos

Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have begun circulating newly printed banknotes to pay civil servants in areas under their control, deepening the economic dimension of the country's civil war. The move follows a currency dispute with the military-led government and is part of the RSF's effort to establish a parallel administration. Analysts warn the rival currency is unlikely to gain international legitimacy but addresses an immediate need for liquidity in rebel-held territories.

Mahfud MD Urges Prabowo to Name Alleged Backers of Paid Protests

Former Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Mahfud MD has challenged President Prabowo Subianto to publicly disclose the identities of those allegedly funding recent demonstrations. Mahfud argued that making such accusations without providing clear evidence or naming the actors involved is unhelpful. He contrasted this with student protesters, who he said openly identify the government policies and institutions they are criticising.

Prabowo Urges Universities to Align Graduates with National Industrial Needs

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to ensure that university graduates possess skills matching the demands of national industrialisation. The government is focusing on strategic sectors such as pharmaceuticals, national vehicle manufacturing, and downstream mineral processing. A comprehensive mapping of workforce requirements will be conducted to bridge the gap between academic output and industry needs.

House Opens Door to Revising Indonesia's State of Emergency Law

The House of Representatives (DPR) has indicated a willingness to revise the 1959 State of Emergency Law, acknowledging the need for updates while defending its constitutional basis. During a judicial review hearing at the Constitutional Court, the DPR's legal counsel argued the law remains a vital instrument for the president to address threats to national sovereignty and stability. The petitioners, however, contend the law is outdated and lacks sufficient legislative oversight, particularly after constitutional amendments, and are seeking a court order for its revision.

Viral Video of Cassowary in Sleman Housing Estate Leads to Evacuation by BKSDA

A video of a cassowary wandering through a residential area in Ngaglik, Sleman, went viral, prompting a response from the Yogyakarta Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA). The protected bird, identified as a double-wattled cassowary, was voluntarily surrendered by its owner to the authorities. The animal will undergo health checks before being released back into its natural habitat.

OJK Revokes Licence of BPR Ceper Permata Artha in Central Java After Failed Recovery

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revoked the business licence of PT BPR Ceper Permata Artha, a rural bank in Klaten, Central Java. The revocation follows the bank's failure to recover its financial health, with the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) opting not to bail it out. The OJK assures depositors that their funds remain protected under the LPS guarantee scheme.

Ministry of Forestry: Around 30 Percent of Forestry Concessions Yet to Perform Optimally

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has revealed that approximately 30 percent of forestry concessions are underperforming, largely due to an over-reliance on timber. The government is pushing a transformation towards a multi-business forestry scheme to diversify revenue streams. This new approach will encourage concession holders to explore non-timber forest products, ecotourism, environmental services, and carbon trading to boost economic value and sustainability.

Iran Rejects Claims of Using Unfrozen Assets to Purchase US Agricultural Products

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf has dismissed US assertions that recently unfrozen Iranian assets will be used to buy American agricultural goods. Qalibaf criticised Washington's trade record, stating the only harvest from the US is decades of distrust. The dispute follows a US-brokered agreement involving the release of approximately $500 million in Iranian funds for humanitarian purchases.

Pegadaian Strengthens ESG Implementation Through Community Collaboration

PT Pegadaian's Sharia branch in Pondok Aren has partnered with a local community group to provide aid to orphans and underprivileged families, demonstrating a practical approach to the Social pillar of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. The initiative involved distributing food packages and cash assistance, leveraging the community's local knowledge to ensure aid reached those most in need. The state-owned enterprise emphasised that such collaborations are key to creating sustainable social impact and aligning with broader Sustainable Development Goals.

Densus 88 Partners with Cilegon City Government to Prevent Radicalisation

Indonesia's elite counter-terrorism unit, Densus 88, is collaborating with the Cilegon city administration to bolster community resilience against radical ideologies. The initiative focuses on strengthening social cohesion and national awareness to counter intolerance, radicalism, extremism, and terrorism (IRET).

Chinese-Owned Steel Mill Generated $557 Million in Sales but Paid Less Than $1.1 Million in Taxes

Indonesia's Finance Ministry is investigating a Chinese-owned steel manufacturer in East Jakarta after discovering a stark disparity between its reported sales of nearly Rp 10 trillion and tax payments of less than Rp 20 billion. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the probe aims to ensure fair business practices and compliance with tax regulations, not to discourage foreign investment. Authorities are examining the company's financial records to determine whether loopholes were exploited to minimise its tax obligations.

Elderly Go Live on TikTok to Sell Goods: Can It Prevent Dementia?

A growing number of elderly Indonesians, such as the viral TikTok seller Oma Grace, are turning to live streaming on social media to sell products. Medical experts note that while such digital activities provide mental stimulation and social engagement, they are not a guaranteed method for preventing dementia. A comprehensive approach including physical exercise, a healthy diet, and regular health checks remains essential for maintaining cognitive function in old age.

Ministry of UMKM: PP 20/2026 Supports a Healthy and Productive MSME Ecosystem

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) has endorsed Government Regulation No. 20 of 2026 as a key instrument for strengthening the MSME ecosystem. The regulation provides tax certainty by maintaining a 0.5% final income tax rate for individual and sole proprietor taxpayers with turnover below Rp4.8 billion, while those earning up to Rp500 million annually remain exempt. The policy aims to improve business governance and ensure tax incentives are accurately targeted at micro and small enterprises.

UBK Alumni Association Demands Strict Sanctions for Students Allegedly Accepting Bribes

The Bung Karno University Alumni Association (IKA UBK) has issued a formal apology and called for the expulsion of students suspected of accepting payments after a demonstration at the State Palace. The association is urging the university rectorate to form an independent team to investigate the incident, which it described as a deliberate and shameful act. It also demanded transparency from state authorities and the police to restore the institution's reputation.

Police Hold Joint Dhikr and Prayer Ahead of 80th Bhayangkara Day

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) held a joint dhikr and prayer session at the Al-Ikhlas Mosque at its headquarters in South Jakarta as part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations. The event, attended by top officials and joined virtually by personnel nationwide, served as a moment of reflection on the force's Tribrata values. Polri leadership expressed hope that the institution would continue to transform into a more professional, adaptive, and solution-oriented body in service to the public.

Unregistered Marriages Can Increase Stunting Risk, Says Minister

Minister of Population and Family Development Wihaji has warned that unregistered marriages can heighten the risk of families facing stunting. He highlighted a case in Sleman, Yogyakarta, where a mother of three faced economic hardship after her unregistered husband died. The government is calling for stronger community education and integrated assistance programmes to address the issue.

Bahlil confirms Masela project construction to begin in 2027

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that construction of the Abadi Masela gas field project in Maluku will commence in 2027. The long-delayed national strategic project, operated by Inpex Corporation, is targeted to begin production between 2029 and 2030. The project, valued at approximately USD 20 billion, is considered one of Indonesia's largest gas assets.

UMJ Hosts MUI Ulama Gathering to Support Sustainable Environmental Management

Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta hosted a gathering of Jakarta's MUI ulama to discuss the role of religious values in environmental sustainability. The event highlighted the moral and syariah-based obligation for waste management, with speakers addressing the national waste crisis. Discussions covered fikih lingkungan (Islamic environmental jurisprudence), national policy, and technological solutions for waste-to-energy conversion.

South Jakarta Transport Agency Cracks Down on Illegal Parking in Gunawarman-Senopati

The South Jakarta Transportation Agency (Sudinhub) led a joint operation to clear illegally parked vehicles from the Gunawarman and Senopati areas on Thursday. The enforcement action, prompted by viral public complaints, resulted in eight motorcycles being towed, 17 motorcycles having their valves removed, and one car being towed. Authorities also detained a 'Pak Ogah' illegal parking attendant and urged businesses and motorists to respect pavement use for pedestrian safety.

Civilian Protection in Papua Requires Research and Local Collaboration

An Indonesian policy expert has called for a more systematic approach to protecting civilians in Papua, emphasising the need for robust research and collaboration among local actors. Charles Kossay of the Merah Pusaka Stratejik Indonesia (MPSI) stated that advocacy must be data-driven to produce measurable change, rather than relying on spontaneous responses. The call was made during a workshop aimed at strengthening the research and networking capabilities of local stakeholders in Central Papua.

How Economic Growth Could Be Affected If the US-Iran Conflict Continues

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) projects that Indonesia's economic growth could slow by 0.21 per cent if the Middle East conflict and accompanying energy price surge persist until the end of 2026. Simulations using a computable general equilibrium model indicate that rising oil prices would erode purchasing power, reduce real wages, and cause exports to contract while imports spike. Indef warns that without strong fundamentals and sound policies, geopolitical risks and supply chain disruptions could further dampen growth, with second-quarter 2026 expansion potentially easing to around 5 per cent year-on-year.

BKKBN Chief Wihaji Promotes GEMAR in Yogyakarta, Responding to High Fatherless Rate

Minister of Population and Family Development Wihaji visited MAN 1 Yogyakarta to promote the GEMAR programme, which encourages fathers to collect their children's school reports. The initiative addresses the concerning statistic that 25 per cent of Indonesian children grow up without a father figure, often due to work commitments rather than death or divorce. Wihaji stressed that paternal involvement is a long-term investment crucial for building character and achieving the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Iqbal Envisions Turning Sweet Palm Sap into Premium Beverage for Five-Star Hotels

West Nusa Tenggara Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal is promoting the processing of abundant palm sap (nira) into a premium beverage for hotels and restaurants, aiming to significantly boost local farmers' incomes. The initiative seeks to replace the current inefficient practice of turning the sap into low-value brown sugar with a simple UV sterilisation and bottling process. The governor also acknowledged that poor road infrastructure in the producing village of Mekarsari remains a major obstacle to distribution and economic development.

Vietnam Urges Citizens to Conserve Electricity Amid Record Bills

Vietnam's state-owned electricity company has called on households and businesses to reduce power consumption after an extreme heatwave pushed national energy demand to an all-time high. The appeal aims to ease pressure on the national grid, with peak load reaching a record 58.46 gigawatts. Authorities are also maximising domestic generation and increasing electricity imports to secure supply.

Local Music Dominates 80% of Spotify Top Charts, Says Deputy Culture Minister

Deputy Culture Minister Giring Ganesha announced that Indonesian music now accounts for 80% of Spotify's top charts, citing data received from the streaming platform. The government plans to use this digital data to formulate policies aimed at fostering a fairer and more equitable music ecosystem. Spotify also reported a 16% year-on-year increase in royalty growth from Indonesia, highlighting a deeper connection between artists and listeners.

South Tangerang Mosque Youth to Receive Free Training in Coding and AI

The South Tangerang city government is partnering with a local mosque movement to launch a free digital academy for young people. The programme will provide training in coding, artificial intelligence, and content creation, aiming to build an inclusive smart city ecosystem from the grassroots level. Officials hope the initiative will transform mosques into centres for modern human resource development and bridge the digital divide.

OJK Approves Merger of BPR Ophir into BPR Swadaya Anak Nagari in West Sumatra

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved the merger of BPR Ophir into BPR Swadaya Anak Nagari in West Sumatra as part of ongoing banking consolidation. The move aims to strengthen capital, enhance competitiveness, and improve governance and risk management for rural banks. This consolidation reduces the number of BPRs in the region and aligns with OJK's roadmap to create a more resilient industry supporting the real sector and MSMEs.

Three Public Service Innovations Bring Global Acclaim to Indonesia

Three Indonesian public service innovations have been recognised at the 2026 United Nations Public Service Awards in Tbilisi, Georgia. The 'Berdaya Srikandi' women's empowerment programme won the gender-responsive category, while the Siskeudes village financial system and the MAGMA Indonesia geological hazard app received honourable mentions. The awards highlight Indonesia's commitment to bureaucratic reform and inclusive, technology-driven public services.

CST Token to Accelerate Global Expansion with Gamification Features and Debit Card

Digital asset developer CST Token has announced plans to expand its blockchain-based ecosystem, including the launch of crowdfunding features and a token burn mechanism. The company, which currently has a market capitalisation of Rp2.74 trillion, is also developing gamification elements and a debit card to facilitate conventional transactions. These initiatives aim to broaden real-world use cases and drive global market expansion for the ERC-20 token.

Former MPR Secretary-General Questioned for 10 Hours by KPK, Not Detained in Graft Case

Ma'ruf Cahyono, the former Secretary-General of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), underwent a 10-hour interrogation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) but was not detained. He is a suspect in a graft case involving alleged gratuities related to procurement at the MPR, with the KPK estimating the amount received at around Rp 17 billion. The anti-graft body stated that further investigation and evidence gathering are required before the case can proceed to prosecution.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya's Popularity Soars Due to Public Engagement

Political analyst Hendri Satrio attributes the rising popularity of Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya to his genuine connection with the public rather than political machinery. Despite lacking a formal political party affiliation or executive position, Teddy's consistent presence at grassroots events and his ability to communicate complex issues in simple terms have resonated widely. His recent appearances alongside President Prabowo in Madura and before thousands of farmers in Gorontalo were met with enthusiastic public reception.

Business Judgment Rule Deemed Crucial to Support SOE Transformation

Experts argue that the Business Judgment Rule (BJR) is essential for strengthening the governance of the newly formed BPI Danantara, providing legal certainty for directors making professional business decisions. The rule, underpinned by recent legislation, protects management from liability for decisions involving business risk, provided they are free from fraud or conflicts of interest. Stakeholders emphasise that harmonising legal frameworks is vital to allow state-owned enterprises to operate effectively and drive national economic growth.

DEN: State could save Rp200 trillion by eliminating inclusion error

A member of Indonesia's National Energy Council (DEN) has stated that removing inclusion errors from fuel subsidy schemes could save the state between Rp170 trillion and Rp200 trillion. The funds could then be redirected towards social protection and other programmes. Current data shows the wealthiest 10 per cent of society enjoy disproportionately large subsidy benefits compared to the poorest, highlighting a significant injustice in the system.

Pertamina Vessel Successfully Navigates Strait of Hormuz

The Pertamina International Shipping vessel Gamsunoro has safely transited the critical Strait of Hormuz after being stranded since early March 2026 due to US-Iran tensions. The successful passage followed a month of rigorous risk assessment and intensive coordination between the company, Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Indonesian Embassy in Tehran. Another Pertamina fleet vessel, the VLCC Pertamina Pride, is now preparing for its own transit while continuing to monitor security conditions.

South Kalimantan Posts IDR 16.48 Trillion Trade Surplus Through May 2026

South Kalimantan recorded an international trade surplus of approximately IDR 16.48 trillion up to May 2026, driven by sustained high export performance. The surplus grew 6.19% year-on-year, reflecting the province's robust external sector amid global economic dynamics. This strong trade performance, combined with 5.67% economic growth in the first quarter, provides a solid foundation for the region's economic momentum through the end of 2026.