Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 25 June 2026

Showing 1,451-1,500 of 1,504 articles

Doctor Tifa's Series of Bafflements During Arrest: Police Hospital, Metro Jaya HQ, and Being Handcuffed

Tifauziah Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, has detailed a series of confusing moments during her arrest and transfer by Polda Metro Jaya officers, including being handcuffed with cable ties. She questioned why she and co-defendant Roy Suryo were taken from the Police Hospital back to Polda Metro Jaya instead of directly to the South Jakarta Prosecutor's Office. The pair, accused in a case involving allegations about President Jokowi's diploma, were eventually transferred to the prosecutor's office and released without detention but must report weekly.

Car-Truck Collision in North Tapanuli Exposes 112 kg Cannabis Shipment

A traffic accident in North Tapanuli, North Sumatra, led to the discovery of 112 kilogrammes of cannabis being transported in a Toyota Avanza. Local residents became suspicious of the vehicle's cargo while attempting to assist at the crash scene and alerted the police. Two couriers were arrested, and the drugs, believed to be destined for Medan, were seized.

30 Juanda Customs Officers Questioned in Illegal Used Mobile Phone Import Case

Indonesia's National Police anti-corruption unit has questioned 30 customs officers and 20 private sector individuals in connection with an alleged scheme to illegally import used mobile phones through Juanda Airport. Investigators suspect importers used falsified documents and that complicit customs officials deliberately bypassed physical inspections. The probe has uncovered indications of bribe payments to state officials, with the illicit practice believed to have been ongoing from 2024 to 2026.

Cyclonic Circulation Triggers Heavy Rain and Strong Wind Warnings Across Indonesia

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an early warning for significant weather on Thursday, 25 June 2026. A cyclonic circulation in the Pacific Ocean is expected to cause heavy rainfall and strong winds across several regions. The public has been urged to remain vigilant for potential hydrometeorological disasters such as flooding and landslides.

Meeting NATO Chief at the White House, Trump Disappointed Over Lack of Help in War Against Iran

US President Donald Trump expressed disappointment that NATO allies did not offer military assistance during the recent conflict with Iran, despite claiming the US did not need the help. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte defended the alliance's role, highlighting the extensive use of European bases by American aircraft and crediting Trump with boosting allied defence spending. The exchange comes ahead of a NATO summit in Ankara next month.

The Philosophy and Meaning of the Mejejaitan Tradition in Bali

The Balinese Hindu tradition of Mejejaitan involves the intricate crafting of sacred offerings from natural materials like young coconut leaves. It is a spiritual practice primarily passed down through generations of women, embodying devotion, patience, and the principle of Tri Hita Karana. The ritual serves as both a daily expression of gratitude to God and a means of strengthening social bonds within the community.

Reviving the Discourse on Pancasila

A recent survey reveals that over 90% of Indonesia's Generation Z can recite Pancasila, surpassing older generations. While this memorisation is a positive sign, the article argues that the state has long monopolised its interpretation, stifling genuine public discourse. It advocates for a bottom-up revival of discussion, proposing a new comic book as a democratic tool to help young Indonesians understand and operationalise the foundational philosophy in their daily lives.

What is the Fate of the Medical Colleges after the Constitutional Court Ruling?

The Constitutional Court has ruled to strengthen the independence of medical colleges, changing their status from subordinate bodies to autonomous members of the Indonesian Medical Council. Despite the ruling, the government-formed colleges under the Ministry of Health have not been dissolved, creating a dualism that threatens the quality of healthcare. The decision underscores that academic bodies must be free from bureaucratic and political interference to set educational and competency standards.

Thirteen Suspects in Little Arisha Daycare Violence Case to Be Tried Soon

Thirteen suspects in the alleged violence case at Little Arisha Daycare in Yogyakarta have been handed over to the District Prosecutor's Office after their case files were declared complete. The suspects, including caregivers, the head of the foundation, and the principal, face multiple charges under laws covering child protection, consumer protection, and the national education system. Prosecutors are preparing the indictment to transfer the case to the Yogyakarta District Court to ensure legal certainty for both victims and the accused.

Germany Scraps Warship Project, Loses Rp46 Trillion Before Completion

The German government has cancelled its largest warship programme since World War II, the F126 frigate project, after already spending approximately €2.3 billion (Rp46.9 trillion). Defence Minister Boris Pistorius halted the programme due to prolonged delays, technical risks, and fears of massive cost overruns, with total expenses potentially soaring to over €18 billion. The decision caused Rheinmetall's shares to plummet by 13 percent, while the government now plans to shift focus to smaller MEKO A-200 frigates from TKMS.

Benefits of the Academic Competency Test for Teachers

The new Academic Competency Test (TKA) policy from Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has sparked varied reactions. Beyond providing students with a standardised academic profile, the test results offer significant benefits for teachers. The data can be used to map student abilities, plan differentiated instruction, and serve as a tool for professional reflection and improved communication with parents.

Turkey Ready to Strengthen Muslim Nations, Asserts Role as Global Mediator

Turkey's Ambassador to Indonesia, Prof Talip Küçükcan, has detailed his country's growing role as a trusted international mediator, citing its successful diplomatic efforts in securing the release of Indonesian activists detained by Israel. He attributed Turkey's effectiveness to its unique geopolitical position as a bridge between civilisations and the trusted leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The ambassador also highlighted Turkey's commitment to advocating for Palestinian rights and its capacity to mediate in global conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war.

BNPB Reports 4,245 Families in West Lombok Facing Water Crisis After Month Without Rain

A prolonged dry spell lasting a month has triggered a clean water crisis for 4,245 families across five sub-districts in West Lombok, according to the National Disaster Management Agency. Local authorities are deploying water tankers and coordinating with the fire service and water utility to mitigate the emergency. The drought has severely depleted domestic water sources, leaving thousands of residents struggling to meet daily needs.

97 Children from Lampung's Family Hope Programme to Continue University Studies in 2026

A total of 97 children from beneficiary families of the Family Hope Programme (PKH) in Lampung Province have been accepted into universities for the 2026 academic year. Many have already been designated as recipients of the KIP Kuliah scholarship, a crucial support mechanism given their families' underprivileged status. PKH officials are urging universities to fully support these students to ensure they complete their undergraduate degrees.

IAEA Confirms Nuclear Inspections in Iran Will Proceed Under Peace Deal with US

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed that inspections of Iran's nuclear facilities will continue as outlined in a recent agreement with the United States. Rafael Grossi stated that the IAEA is working on the modalities for the inspections, which are explicitly mandated by the memorandum of understanding signed by both presidents. The announcement comes amid conflicting statements from Washington and Tehran regarding the presence of UN inspectors.

LGBT Phenomenon Repeats Throughout History, Says Social Activist Who Helps Them 'Hijrah'

Social activist Agung Sugiarto, known for assisting LGBT individuals to 'hijrah' (religiously guided transition), has stated that the recent visibility of LGBT cases in Indonesia is a recurring historical phenomenon. He noted that technological advancements and the rapid flow of information have increased the group's public visibility. Sugiarto cited various historical references, from the Epic of Gilgamesh to ancient Egypt, to argue that societies have always held both supportive and opposing views on same-sex relationships.

BNPB Urges Preparedness for Extreme Weather Warnings Across 26 Provinces

Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has called on regional governments to heighten vigilance following an early warning for extreme weather, including moderate to heavy rain and strong winds, across 26 provinces until 26 June. The agency stressed the importance of clearing drainage systems and avoiding riverbanks, citing recent flooding in West Kalimantan that submerged 1,560 homes. Authorities also reminded drought-affected areas to manage clean water distribution effectively.

Academic Applauds National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo's Transformation and Leadership

Professor Firdaus Syam of Universitas Nasional has praised the structural and technological transformation of the Indonesian National Police under General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. He noted, however, that institutional reform must be strengthened through cultural change via education and internal consolidation to ensure a more humanist and professional force. The remarks were made during the launch of a book detailing the Police Chief's 'PRESISI' vision.

Russian Opposition Party Leader Sentenced to 7 Years for Criticising Ukraine War

Maxim Kruglov, deputy leader of Russia's prominent opposition party Yabloko, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for social media posts condemning civilian casualties in the Ukraine war. The 39-year-old was convicted of spreading false information about the Russian army, a charge he denies, arguing he merely called for an investigation. The case highlights the Kremlin's intensifying crackdown on dissent, which critics liken to Soviet-era repression.

Songwriters Stage Peaceful Protest at Supreme Court Over Royalty and Copyright Regulations

Indonesian songwriters held a silent protest outside the Supreme Court in Jakarta, demanding a judicial review of government regulations they claim have disrupted royalty distribution. The demonstrators argue that Government Regulation No. 56 of 2021 and Minister of Law Regulation No. 27 of 2025 contravene the Copyright Law by shifting collection authority from Collective Management Organisations to the National Collective Management Institute. They report a significant decline in royalty payments since the regulatory changes took effect.

Sketch Competition and Leadership Seminar Mark 105th Soeharto Memorial

The 105th memorial of former President Soeharto was commemorated with a national leadership seminar and a record-breaking sketch competition at Trilogi University in Jakarta. The event, which drew over 1,100 participants, aimed to reflect on Soeharto's leadership values and their relevance to contemporary national development. The sketch competition earned a Museum Rekor Indonesia (MURI) record for the highest number of participants.

Culture Minister Fadli Zon and FBI Discuss Repatriation of Indonesian Cultural Artefacts

Indonesian Culture Minister Fadli Zon met with FBI Legal Attaché Robert F. Lafferty in Jakarta to discuss the ongoing repatriation of Indonesian cultural artefacts from the United States. The meeting highlighted significant progress made over the past year and explored ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation for the protection of cultural heritage. Both parties expressed a commitment to establishing clearer coordination mechanisms to expedite the return of these historical items.

Government Prioritises Investment Potential Despite Tax Haven Concerns over Financial Centre

The Indonesian government has acknowledged that the planned International Financial Centre in Bali could turn the country into a tax haven, but argues the potential investment inflows justify the move. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto compared the initiative to Dubai and Singapore, suggesting it could attract up to Rp5,000 trillion in global funds. However, economist Wijayanto Samirin warned that the scheme, combined with legal protections for bond investors, risks creating a complete ecosystem for money laundering.

Israel Refuses to Withdraw Troops from Lebanon, Claims US Backing

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has declared that Israel will not withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon under any circumstances, asserting that the United States supports this stance. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reinforced the position, vowing to maintain a security zone as long as necessary. The development complicates US-mediated talks between Israel and Lebanon aimed at disarming Hezbollah and securing an Israeli pullout.

If Indonesia Falls to Frontier Market, Who Stands to Lose the Most?

A potential downgrade of Indonesia's stock market from Emerging Market to Frontier Market status by MSCI could trigger significant capital outflows and increase funding costs. Foreign investors, local listed companies, global pension funds, and retail investors all face substantial risks, with foreign institutional investors likely to bear the initial brunt of forced asset sales.

AGO's Asset Recovery Agency Forms Task Force to Track Corruptors' Assets

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office's Asset Recovery Agency (BPA) has established a special task force to trace assets belonging to long-standing corruption convicts, including fugitive Edy Tansil. The agency is also ramping up public auctions of seized assets and managing high-value confiscated properties to preserve state revenue. Efforts include the planned sale of perishable coal evidence in Central Kalimantan and the continued operation of a seized oil terminal in partnership with Pertamina.

Human Rights Ministry to Deploy 200 Human Rights Activators in Villages Across Indonesia

Indonesia's Ministry of Human Rights is recruiting 200 'Human Rights Activators' to be stationed in villages and sub-districts nationwide, aiming to embed human rights principles at the grassroots level. The initiative seeks to make rural communities the driving force of human rights civilisation, aligning with broader national development programmes. Officials argue that strengthening human rights awareness in villages will help minimise violations and ensure local development policies are grounded in respect, protection, and fulfilment of fundamental rights.

Sandiaga Uno Becomes Investor in This Listed Company

Former minister Sandiaga Uno is investing in PT Mutuagung Lestari Tbk (MUTU) through a private placement, alongside other strategic investors. The capital injection aims to support the company's expansion into testing, inspection, certification, and verification services. MUTU is targeting growth in halal certification, the food and beverage sector, and Indonesia's developing carbon market.

Seeking Input on One Data Bill, House Legislation Body and Bappenas Visit China

A delegation from Indonesia's House Legislation Body and the Ministry of National Development Planning visited China to study data governance ecosystems for the drafting of the One Data Indonesia Bill. The visit aims to address the country's fragmented and often inaccurate data systems, which currently hinder effective policymaking. The delegation also explored China's integration of traditional medicine into its national health system.

Democrat Politician Hits Back at PDIP's Deddy Sitorus Over AHY's Statement

A Democratic Party politician has rebuked PDIP's Deddy Sitorus for taking offence at Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono's (AHY) call for national interests to be placed above partisan ones. Yan Harahap argued that AHY's statement was a moderate appeal for constructive opposition, not incitement, and questioned Deddy's interpretation. The exchange highlights ongoing political friction between the ruling coalition and the opposition PDIP.

Customs Office Raid Leads to Investigation of 30 Officers Over Illegal Used Phone Imports

Indonesia's Police Corruption Taskforce has questioned 30 customs officers and 20 private sector individuals following a raid on the Juanda Customs Office. The investigation centres on the illegal import of used mobile phones, which allegedly entered the country using falsified documents and without mandatory physical inspections. Authorities are also probing suspected bribery of state officials to facilitate the smuggling operation.

Asset Recovery Agency succeeds in recovering state losses on target

Indonesia's Asset Recovery Agency (BPA) has met its state loss recovery targets for 2024 and 2025, depositing trillions of rupiah into the state treasury. The agency is on track to achieve its 2026 target of Rp3.2 trillion, having already recovered Rp1.7 trillion by mid-year. The BPA manages over 27,000 assets nationwide and operates 64 storage facilities to expedite the handling of confiscated goods.

KSPSI Urges Government to Protect Hotel Sultan Workers

The All-Indonesia Workers' Confederation (KSPSI) has called on the government to safeguard the rights of employees affected by the execution of a court order at the Hotel Sultan complex. Union leaders argue that the workers are experienced professionals whose livelihoods and families are at stake, demanding they be prioritised for re-employment under any new management. The confederation is urging immediate, concrete steps to ensure the workers' welfare and uphold their dignity during the transition.

KPK Investigates Initiative Behind 20,000 Additional Hajj Quota Distribution in Hilman Latief Examination

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) questioned former Director General of Hajj and Umrah, Hilman Latief, to uncover who initiated the equal 50-50 split of an additional 20,000 hajj quota in 2024, deviating from the standard 92-8 percent ratio. The investigation aims to confirm allegations of abuse of authority linked to the quota distribution, which has already led to the naming of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas as a suspect. State auditors have estimated potential losses in the case at Rp622 billion.

Latest Update on Bandung Confinement Case: Suspect Taufik Hidayat to Undergo Psychiatric Evaluation

West Java Police are conducting a psychiatric examination of Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the alleged confinement and abuse of a woman identified as YTR in Bandung Regency. The evaluation aims to determine the suspect's mental state after he allegedly held the victim captive and tortured her for approximately three years. The case came to light after the victim was found in critical condition at Hasan Sadikin Hospital.

Young NU Figure Says Police Reform Journey Still Long

A young Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) figure, Ali Ramadhan, has stated that the Indonesian National Police's reform journey remains lengthy due to increasingly complex future challenges. He noted that while Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has laid a strong foundation with a transparent leadership paradigm, the PRESISI vision is an ongoing commitment. Ali launched a book analysing Sigit's leadership and the PRESISI concept as a response to democratic disruption and digital-era demands.

Latest Survey: US Image Worldwide, Including Indonesia, Trends Negative

A new Pew Research Center survey reveals global trust in US President Donald Trump remains low, with only 23 per cent of respondents across 36 countries expressing confidence in his international leadership. The study also shows a sharp decline in favourable views of the United States, including in Indonesia, Italy, Nigeria, South Africa, and South Korea. Perceptions of the US as a reliable partner have weakened significantly even among long-standing allies such as Canada and Germany.

Death Toll in SPPI Kopdes-KNMP Military Training Rises to Three

The number of fatalities during the military basic training for the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangun Indonesia (SPPI) programme has risen to three following the death of participant Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang from tuberculosis. The Ministry of Defence confirmed her passing and expressed condolences, while also acknowledging the earlier deaths of two other participants due to heat stroke and cardiac arrest. An evaluation of the training system and health supervision is underway to prioritise participant safety.

Gianyar Regent Showcases Health Service Innovations to Magelang Delegation

Gianyar Regent I Made Agus Mahayastra presented the district's healthcare development strategies, funded through a loan from PT SMI, to visiting Magelang officials. The delegation observed facilities including the Sanjiwani Regional Hospital's executive polyclinic and a developing integrated cardiac service. Magelang Regent Grengseng Pamuji stated the innovations would serve as a reference for his own region's health sector planning.

Coordinating Minister AHY Says Reconstruction of Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School Reaches 50 Percent

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has confirmed that the reconstruction of the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, is now 50 per cent complete. The project prioritises safety standards following the fatal collapse of a building in September 2025 that killed 67 students. The government has allocated approximately Rp122 billion for this reconstruction, alongside a broader Rp4 trillion budget for renovating 1,400 madrasahs nationwide.

Sekolah Rakyat Students to be Trained by Military Academy Cadets

The Ministry of Social Affairs and the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) are collaborating on a character-building programme for Sekolah Rakyat students, involving approximately 1,000 Military Academy cadets. Each school will be assigned five cadets to instruct students and teachers on discipline and neatness, a priority highlighted by the President. The initiative aligns with Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2025 and aims to instil discipline as students transition into the new educational environment.

Japan: North Korean Abduction Issue a Challenge for the International Community

Japan's Minister for the Abduction Issue, Kihara Minoru, has called the North Korean abduction of Japanese and other nationals a shared challenge for the international community. Speaking at a UN symposium, he stressed the urgency of resolving the matter as victims and their families continue to age. The symposium was co-hosted by Japan, the US, Australia, South Korea, and the EU.

House Commission VIII Approves Rp4.5 Trillion Budget for Pesantren Funding

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission VIII has approved a Rp4.5 trillion budget allocation for 2027 to fund the development and empowerment of pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) nationwide. The funds, to be managed by a new directorate under the Ministry of Religious Affairs, aim to provide operational assistance, improve teacher welfare, and construct facilities including Ma'had Aly campuses. This initiative seeks to address the current funding gap, where only a small fraction of Aceh's 1,900 pesantren receive minimal state support.

Another Prospective Fishermen's Cooperative Manager Dies During Military Training

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of a third participant in the SPPI programme, Novia Rahmadhani Sihotang, during basic military training in Jakarta. The trainee, who was being prepared to manage a Merah Putih Fishermen's Cooperative, reportedly suffered from tuberculosis. The ministry has expressed condolences and pledged to evaluate the training system to prioritise participant safety.

Egypt-Indonesia share special cultural and educational ties, says ambassador

Egypt's ambassador to Indonesia has highlighted the centuries-old cultural and educational bonds between the two nations, anchored by Al-Azhar's revered status among Indonesians. The relationship has been elevated to a strategic partnership following three visits by President Prabowo Subianto, encompassing expanded scholarship and study opportunities beyond religious fields. Cooperation now extends to ensuring Egyptian medical and engineering graduates can smoothly practise their professions upon returning to Indonesia.

Indonesia Falls to 48th in IMD Competitiveness Ranking

Indonesia's global competitiveness ranking has dropped eight places to 48th in the 2026 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, continuing a two-year decline. The report cites infrastructure gaps, limited financing, and energy security concerns as key challenges, despite the country's relatively strong economic performance and price competitiveness. Indonesia now trails regional peers Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam, with education and health infrastructure identified as its weakest pillars.

Jakarta's 98.6% Land Certification Rate Can Be a Model for Other Regions, Says Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Ossy Dermawan announced that 98.6 per cent of land parcels in Jakarta have been certified, making it one of the best-performing provinces in Indonesia. He stated that this achievement could serve as a model for other regions and emphasised the importance of integrating land, population, and tax data to improve governance. The ministry handed over 499 land-use certificates covering 85 hectares to the Jakarta provincial government.

Police Transfer Case of Grace Natalie, Ade Armando Over JK Lecture Video to Metro Jaya

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has transferred a case involving politician Grace Natalie and activists Ade Armando and Permadi Arya to Polda Metro Jaya. The trio were reported by an alliance of Islamic organisations for allegedly uploading edited clips of a lecture by former Vice President Jusuf Kalla (JK) that sparked religious unrest. The police cited a shared locus with an existing report at the regional level as the reason for the transfer.

Taufik Hidayat Allegedly Temperamental, Challenged to Fight and Threatened to Kill Boarding House Guard

New details have emerged about Taufik Hidayat, the man accused of confining and torturing his girlfriend in Bandung, revealing a history of aggressive behaviour. The boarding house guard reported that Taufik previously challenged him to a fight and later threatened to kill him with a machete if the victim died. Other residents described Taufik as having an explosive temper, often hearing loud banging sounds from his room.

Trenggalek Offers Free Vehicle Emission Tests and Tree Seedlings to Combat Air Pollution

The Trenggalek Environmental Agency, in collaboration with local authorities, conducted free emission tests for 250 vehicles as part of World Environment Day commemorations. The initiative aims to evaluate vehicle compliance with emission standards and raise public awareness, with participants receiving advice on vehicle maintenance and productive tree seedlings.