Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

Showing 551-600 of 1,505 articles

RSHS Deploys 40 Doctors for Facial Reconstruction of Victim with Severe Injuries and Maggots

Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Bandung has assembled a team of 40 specialists to perform facial reconstruction on Yuvita Tri Rezeki, a 29-year-old woman who suffered severe, infected wounds allegedly from abuse. The hospital has imposed a strict no-visitor policy to prevent further infection, with the reconstruction process expected to take more than three months. The medical team includes surgeons, psychiatrists, psychologists, and nutritionists to address the patient's complex physical and psychological needs.

Indonesia Ready to Lead Forest-Based Climate Solutions

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has declared Indonesia's readiness to lead global forest-based climate solutions, emphasising a shift from ambition to implementation. The country is strengthening forest governance, developing high-integrity carbon markets, and pioneering conservation financing. Key achievements include a dramatic reduction in forest fires and the upcoming issuance of over 30 million tonnes of CO2e in forestry carbon credits.

House Commission III Responds to Rising Public Trust in Police: 'Don't Be Complacent'

House Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has welcomed a Kompas survey showing public trust in the Indonesian National Police (Polri) has risen to 82.4 per cent, but cautioned the force against complacency. He attributed the improved figures to a more humanist and responsive approach under the leadership of General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. The survey also recorded increases in public satisfaction and the institution's overall image.

JCI Sinks 1.72% on Fed Uncertainty, Domestic Policy Worries

The Jakarta Composite Index fell sharply by 1.72% on Friday, driven by global interest rate uncertainty and mounting domestic concerns over Indonesia's investment climate. Investor sentiment was particularly rattled by the new Patriot Bonds legal protections and Indonesia's drop in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. The sell-off mirrored broader regional weakness, with markets in Japan and South Korea also posting significant declines.

Kulon Progo Man Arrested for Selling Fake IELTS Certificates for Australian Work

A man in Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, has been arrested for allegedly producing and selling counterfeit IELTS certificates to individuals seeking employment in Australia. The suspect, identified as GDZ, used a mobile phone application to fabricate the documents and defrauded victims of up to Rp 40 million. Police are urging the public to consult official manpower agencies to avoid similar scams.

Cyber Security Underpins Digital Economy, ABI Encourages Public Education

The Indonesian Blockchain Association (ABI) has called for stronger cross-sector collaboration to boost national cyber security literacy, emphasising its critical role in sustaining trust in the digital economy. The call was made during the Digital Safe Festival 2026, where officials warned that modern cyber threats increasingly target human psychology through social engineering and AI-powered deepfakes. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) noted that low digital literacy remains the primary vulnerability exploited by cybercriminals, particularly among the most digitally active 25-49 age group.

Revealed! Taufik Hidayat is a Repeat Offender, Previously Jailed for Assaulting Former Wife

Taufik Hidayat, the man arrested for allegedly holding his girlfriend captive and torturing her for three years in Bandung, has been revealed as a repeat offender. West Java Police confirmed he was previously sentenced to prison for a similar violent crime against his former wife. Authorities are now pursuing multiple charges to ensure a severe penalty for his latest offences.

Indonesian Democracy and the Role of the Young Generation

Indonesian democracy is a continuous journey rooted in the nation's founding values of deliberation and mutual respect. The article argues that democracy extends beyond elections into daily habits of discussion and tolerance, with young people playing a crucial role in its strengthening. It emphasises that the future of Indonesia's democratic maturity depends on citizens using their rights wisely and maintaining unity amidst diversity.

North Korea's Kim Tests Missiles as Indonesia Prepares Yuan-Denominated Bond Issuance

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw a tactical missile and artillery test on Thursday, while Indonesia's Ministry of Finance has detailed its rationale for an upcoming Panda bond issuance in Chinese Yuan, expected in the coming days.

Trade War Escalates: Minister of Industry Outlines Strategy to Protect Indonesian Manufacturing

Indonesia's Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, has detailed a multi-pronged strategy to shield domestic industry from the worsening global trade war. The plan focuses on expanding into new markets like Eurasia, enhancing product quality and competitiveness, and leveraging standardisation as a non-tariff barrier. The government is also emphasising the need for legal certainty and consistent policy to attract investment and achieve its 8% economic growth target.

Bengkayang Corn Distribution to Bulog Reaches 618.8 Tonnes

The distribution of dried shelled corn from Bengkayang Regency to the Bulog warehouse in Singkawang has reached 618.852 tonnes since 2025, facilitated by the local police. The initiative aims to support the absorption of farmers' harvests and bolster national food security. Bengkayang has become the largest corn supplier for Bulog in its working area during 2026.

Purbaya Says Budget per Portion for Free Nutritious Meals Not Cut

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the budget per portion for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme remains unchanged, despite an overall reduction in the National Nutrition Agency's (BGN) budget. He emphasised that the focus is on improving the programme's implementation and human resources, including recruiting more nutritionists. The BGN's budget has been reduced from Rp 335 trillion to Rp 268 trillion due to efficiency measures.

Prabowo: I Lost Four Times but Never Disrupted the Elected Leader

President Prabowo Subianto reflected on his four electoral defeats, stating he never disrupted the administrations that received the people's mandate. Speaking at a national convention, he urged the political elite to cooperate and avoid post-election turmoil. Prabowo emphasised that democracy, as an expression of popular sovereignty, must not be marred by repeated discord after every election.

Komdigi Applauds Police for Dismantling International Online Gambling Syndicate in Hayam Wuruk

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has praised the National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit for uncovering an international online gambling network operating in Hayam Wuruk, West Jakarta. The operation led to the arrest of 321 foreign nationals and the seizure of electronic devices and travel documents. The ministry emphasised the need for strong inter-agency synergy to combat such transnational organised crime, which exploits complex digital infrastructure to evade detection.

Govt reviews MBG governance, prioritizes vulnerable groups

The Indonesian government is reviewing the governance of its free nutritious meal programme (MBG), with a renewed focus on vulnerable groups and underdeveloped regions to maximise stunting reduction. Bakom head Muhammad Qodari stated that prioritising the 3B group and 3T areas is the most effective intervention strategy, while President Prabowo has ordered the new National Nutrition Agency leadership to strengthen programme implementation. The evaluation process also incorporates survey data from 800 programme kitchens gathered by the National Economic Council to improve nutritional quality and hygiene standards.

Bali as a Main Transshipment Point in the Illegal Wild Bird Trade

Bali has been identified as a central hub in Indonesia's illegal wild bird trade, with over 10,700 birds seized in the first five months of 2026 alone. Conservation group FLIGHT reports that highly organised criminal networks use ports like Padangbai and Gilimanuk to smuggle birds from Lombok to Java, driven by massive demand in Javanese bird markets. The trade is causing local extinctions and poses zoonotic disease risks, while authorities acknowledge the need to target the intellectual actors behind the networks rather than just low-level couriers.

Lebak Health Office urges residents to maintain environmental cleanliness to prevent disease

The Lebak District Health Office in Banten is intensifying public education on environmental hygiene to curb the spread of communicable diseases. Officials are promoting community-led mosquito nest eradication and healthy living practices through local health facilities. The initiative aims to prevent outbreaks of dengue fever, chikungunya, diarrhoea, and respiratory infections.

Students and the Temptation of Transactional Politics: A Sociological Reflection

A recent video confession by a student leader at Bung Karno University about receiving money after a political meeting has sparked public debate. This article examines the incident through the sociological lenses of Durkheim and Bourdieu, arguing it reflects a deeper erosion of solidarity and the conversion of social capital into economic gain within student movements. It calls for collective reflection on whether campus organisations are still arenas for ideas or have become spaces for transactional interests.

Minat Investor China Tinggi, Purbaya Tunda Penerbitan Panda Bond hingga Akhir Juli

Pemerintah Indonesia menunda penerbitan obligasi Panda Bond hingga akhir Juli 2026 karena tingginya minat investor China yang memerlukan waktu tambahan untuk persetujuan internal. Menteri Keuangan Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa menyatakan nilai penerbitan fleksibel dan berpotensi ditingkatkan dari target awal US$ 1 miliar. Penerbitan ini merupakan bagian dari strategi diversifikasi pembiayaan dan akan memanfaatkan skema Local Currency Transaction untuk mengurangi ketergantungan terhadap dolar AS.

AI Adoption Accelerates, But Demands for Tangible Impact Grow

As artificial intelligence adoption surges in Indonesia, businesses are shifting focus from hype to demanding measurable returns on investment. Experts stress that success requires integrating AI into core business strategy, restructuring workflows, and strengthening data infrastructure rather than treating it as a mere technology project. Sectors such as banking, retail, and healthcare are poised to benefit significantly, though many firms still struggle to scale AI beyond the experimental phase.

Southeast Asia’s State Power Giants Face Financial Reckoning

State-owned power utilities across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia's PLN, are caught between rising electricity demand, costly energy transitions, and government pressure to keep tariffs low. This financial strain is leading to mounting subsidies and hidden liabilities, with Indonesia's PLN seeing government compensation rise to $8.7 trillion in 2023. The report warns that without more transparent pricing and investment, the region risks chronic underinvestment and repeated taxpayer bailouts, threatening its industrial ambitions.

Jakarta Police Uncover Arcade Gambling Ring with Monthly Turnover of IDR 2.1 Billion

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have dismantled a gambling operation disguised as an arcade, arresting 69 individuals and seizing assets worth billions of rupiah. The syndicate, operating under names like 'Dissney Timezone' and 'Sky Timezone', generated a monthly turnover of IDR 2.1 billion. In a separate case, police also uncovered an online gambling and pornography ring involving five corporations and the use of virtual accounts to launder money.

YTR Tortured for Two Years: Burned with Cigarettes, Beaten, and Struck with Helmet Until Blind

West Java Police Chief Inspector General Rudi Setiawan revealed that Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in the abuse and confinement case of Yuvita Tri Rezeki, subjected the victim to severe torture over a two-year period from 2024 to 2026. The victim was repeatedly beaten with bare hands, a helmet, and a sharp weapon, and was burned with cigarettes, resulting in serious injuries including blindness. The suspect also confined the victim in a locked room, leaving her helpless.

3 Kg CNG Canisters to Be Distributed at Official Pertamina Agents and Depots

The Indonesian government is preparing to introduce 3-kilogram Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) canisters as an alternative to LPG for household use. The distribution will mirror the existing LPG model, utilising PT Pertamina's official agents and depots. Consumers will only pay for the gas content, not the canister itself, which will remain the property of the business entity.

Beware of Fake Wedding Invitations on WhatsApp, Here's What to Do Immediately

A scam involving malicious APK files disguised as wedding invitations is circulating on WhatsApp, posing a serious threat to users' personal data and mobile banking accounts. If a user has mistakenly installed such a file, immediate steps such as activating airplane mode and deleting the application are crucial to prevent data theft. The public is urged to remain vigilant and follow security protocols to mitigate potential financial losses.

Is Gen Z Really Investment Savvy? They Might Still Be Making These 7 Mistakes

Despite Gen Z's growing enthusiasm for investing, many young beginners are still falling into common traps. From making emotional decisions driven by FOMO to neglecting portfolio diversification, these errors can undermine long-term financial goals. Understanding these pitfalls is crucial for building a resilient investment strategy.

Jokowi Wears PSI Shirt and Hat Gifted by Kaesang During Lampung Visit

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo began his nationwide tour in Lampung wearing a shirt and hat bearing the logo of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), gifts from his son and PSI chairman Kaesang Pangarep. Jokowi stated he will act as a motivator for the party during his travels, offering guidance on structural development to build a larger political machine.

West Kalimantan High Prosecutor's Office Files First-Ever Plea Bargain

The West Kalimantan High Prosecutor's Office has submitted its first plea bargain application as part of a push to modernise the criminal justice system. The move, applied to a suspect under Article 488 of the Criminal Code, signals a shift towards a more humane legal approach. The office is also advancing restorative justice mechanisms to resolve cases without lengthy trials.

Kupang's Free Nutritious Meal Programme Encouraged to Drive Local Economy

NTT Governor Melki Laka Lena has urged that the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in Kupang be leveraged to boost the local economy by involving local farmers, livestock breeders, and MSMEs in the supply chain. With 107,000 beneficiaries in the city, the programme's economic turnover is estimated at IDR 440 billion. The local government aims to make Kupang a model for the programme by optimising the use of local commodities through an 'MBG NTT Incorporated' concept.

The Historical Mystery of the Bubat War: A Review of Sri Wintala Achmad's Book

A review of Sri Wintala Achmad's book 'Perang Bubat (1279 Saka)' which investigates the historical mystery surrounding the 14th-century conflict between the Sunda and Majapahit kingdoms. The book systematically analyses literary sources and archaeological hypotheses to examine the origins of the tragic event, which began with a marriage proposal from King Hayam Wuruk to a Sundanese princess and ended in bloodshed. The author explores the long-standing cultural impact of the event, including the persistent myth of a marriage prohibition between Sundanese and Javanese people.

East Jakarta Court Bans Live Streaming of Dokter Tifa's Defamation Trial

The East Jakarta District Court has prohibited live streaming during the defamation trial of Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Dokter Tifa, concerning the authenticity of former President Joko Widodo's diplomas. Court spokesperson Immanuel Tarigan stated the ban is to maintain order, though media are still permitted to cover the proceedings conventionally. The first hearing is scheduled for 2 July 2026.

Pegadaian Sweeps Three Gold Awards at Asia Pacific Event, Proving Customer Service is Increasingly Recognised Globally

Indonesian state-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian has secured three Gold awards at the Contact Center World Asia Pacific 2026 in Malaysia. The company won top honours for Best Operations Contact Center, Best Use of Social Media, and Best Self-Service Technology. The achievement underscores the firm's successful and ongoing transformation of its customer service standards to a globally competitive level.

MUI Forum Urges Sustainable Waste Management

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) Jakarta and the Indonesia Sustainability Movement held a forum to discuss sustainable waste management solutions. Experts warned against waste-to-energy projects that primarily benefit investors using public funds, while emphasising the need for upstream waste reduction. The forum concluded that solving Indonesia's waste crisis requires public education, appropriate technology, and transparent, accountable policies.

Food Cartels Are Nothing New: Ibn Taymiyyah Discussed Them Seven Centuries Ago

As Indonesian palm oil farmers face losses due to suspected price manipulation, the article draws a parallel to the 13th-century scholar Ibn Taymiyyah, who condemned such practices as 'ihtikar' (hoarding). It argues that his view of cartels as a form of oppression, rather than a mere market glitch, remains a stark warning against state inaction on food prices.

Accompanied by Gibran, Prabowo Gathers 2,600 Rectors and Lecturers Across Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka convened approximately 2,600 university leaders and academics in Jakarta to align higher education with national economic independence. The National Gathering, part of the 2026 Science, Technology, and Industry Convention, aims to ensure campus research translates into tangible solutions for regional economies. The government is pushing for stronger synergy between universities, industry, and the state to boost Indonesia's competitiveness.

AI Preaching: Between Technological Convenience and Scholarly Authority

The emergence of an AI-generated female preacher on Indonesian social media has ignited a debate about the role of artificial intelligence in religious discourse. While AI offers benefits like wider dissemination of Islamic teachings, it raises fundamental questions about authority, accountability, and the irreplaceable human element of scholarly transmission. The phenomenon challenges the traditional concept of 'sanad' and has prompted warnings from the Indonesian Ulema Council about the dangers of algorithmic religion.

IHSG Closes Weaker, Tracking Regional Asian Markets

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index (IHSG) fell sharply on Friday, dragged down by a broad sell-off in Asian markets. The decline was primarily attributed to a global technology stock rout driven by concerns over rising artificial intelligence infrastructure costs. Investors are now looking ahead to next week's domestic economic data releases, including the manufacturing PMI, trade balance, and inflation figures.

Economic Factors Dominate as 60,000 University Entrants Fail to Re-register

Approximately 60,000 prospective students who secured places in Indonesian state universities through national selection have failed to re-register, with economic hardship cited as the dominant cause. An education expert notes that recent waves of layoffs and financial difficulty are forcing families to abandon these opportunities, while some students opt for alternative pathways such as vocational schools or military academies. The trend also reflects a broader shift among younger generations who are increasingly adopting a 'wait-and-see' approach before committing to higher education.

South Korea to Train 500,000 'Drone Soldiers' to Counter North

South Korea has announced a massive expansion of its drone warfare capabilities, planning to acquire 20,000 low-cost military drones and train half a million personnel as 'drone soldiers'. The initiative, inspired by conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, aims to make drones standard personal equipment for every soldier. Seoul will rely entirely on domestically produced components to address security concerns and counter North Korea's growing unmanned aerial vehicle threats.

250 Buildings and 8 Hospitals in Venezuela Reported Destroyed

A series of powerful earthquakes in Venezuela has resulted in the destruction of 250 buildings, eight hospitals, and 20 shopping centres, according to the National Assembly President. The disaster, which has claimed at least 235 lives, has prompted the interim president to declare a state of emergency to accelerate relief efforts.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Opens Opportunities for People with Sensory Disabilities at 2026 MTQ

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is making the 2026 National Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran (MTQ) more inclusive by opening participation for people with sensory disabilities. The initiative, piloted this year in Semarang, aims to ensure equal opportunities in Quranic recitation and appreciation. The ministry has instructed the Quran Recitation Development Institute (LPTQ) nationwide to begin early coaching and preparation for prospective participants.

PDIP Sharply Criticises Jokowi's Blusukan: For Gibran's Future in 2029

PDIP politician Guntur Romli has accused former President Joko Widodo of using his recent 'blusukan' (impromptu visits) as a political campaign for the 2029 elections. Romli claims the activities are aimed at securing the political future of Jokowi's children, particularly Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and boosting the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) led by his son Kaesang Pangarep.

China's Most Wanted Fugitive Arrested by Indonesian Police at Soekarno-Hatta Airport

Indonesian National Police have apprehended Zheng Rongjing, a Chinese national listed as a most-wanted fugitive for international online scams, upon his arrival at Soekarno-Hatta Airport. Zheng is alleged to be a major figure operating a scamming syndicate from one of the largest fraud compounds in Cambodia. Authorities are currently investigating his purpose for entering Indonesia, suspecting he may have been planning to establish local operations.

West Kalimantan BNNP Destroys Nearly 20 kg of Crystal Meth from International Network

The West Kalimantan National Narcotics Agency (BNNP) has destroyed nearly 20 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine seized from an international trafficking operation. The drugs, disguised in Chinese-branded tea packaging, were intercepted in an ambush near the Entikong border crossing. A Malaysian national acting as a courier has been arrested and faces severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty.

NIB untuk Konten Kreator Mulai Jadi Perhatian, Siapa yang Wajib Mengurusnya?

Pemerintah Indonesia mengklarifikasi bahwa Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB) bukanlah kewajiban baru yang menyasar seluruh kreator konten, melainkan hanya berlaku bagi mereka yang aktivitas digitalnya telah memenuhi kriteria sebagai kegiatan usaha. Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif menegaskan bahwa kreator dengan penghasilan di bawah Penghasilan Tidak Kena Pajak (PTKP) tidak diwajibkan mengurus NIB, meluruskan misinformasi yang beredar di masyarakat. Kebijakan ini merupakan bagian dari pembaruan Klasifikasi Baku Lapangan Usaha Indonesia (KBLI) 2025 untuk memberikan kepastian hukum dan menciptakan ekosistem perdagangan elektronik yang lebih tertib.

Bareskrim Names Four Indonesians as Suspects in Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Operations

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) has named four Indonesian citizens as suspects for their roles in an international online gambling syndicate operating from Hayam Wuruk Plaza Tower in Jakarta. The suspects allegedly managed financial accounts, prepared ATM cards, and facilitated cryptocurrency exchanges to support the network's activities. Authorities are also pursuing a foreign national suspected of coordinating the operation and maintaining direct contact with leaders abroad.

Purbaya to raise Panda Bond target above US$1 billion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa plans to increase the target for Indonesia's Panda Bond issuance beyond US$1 billion, driven by stronger-than-expected demand from Chinese investors. The government has postponed the issuance from early to late July 2026 to allow major Chinese fund managers and banks time to secure internal approvals. The move signals robust international appetite for Indonesian sovereign debt instruments.

Education Ministry Prepares Grand Design for National Teacher Fulfilment, Following Presidential Directive

The Indonesian government is developing an integrated grand design to address the nation's teacher shortage, focusing on systemic reform rather than merely increasing graduate numbers. The initiative aims to synchronise teacher education, certification, and professional development with national needs, in line with President Prabowo's human development priorities.

Chinese-Linked EVs Kicked Out: Trump Administration Blocks Polestar Sales Without Mercy

The United States has effectively banned Polestar from selling new vehicles from the 2027 model year, citing national security risks under the Connected Vehicles Rule. The Swedish-based, Geely-owned electric car maker saw its Nasdaq shares drop 6.3% following the Commerce Department's refusal to grant sales authorisation. Polestar will not appeal the decision and is pivoting its strategy to focus on the European market, where it generates the vast majority of its sales.

Police Uncover Gambling and Pornography via App, Name Nine Suspects

Jakarta police have dismantled a transnational crime syndicate operating the 'HOT51' app, which provided online gambling and live-streaming pornography. Nine individual suspects, including a Chinese national, were arrested for roles ranging from performers to financial controllers. The network used shell companies and virtual accounts to launder money, with police seizing Rp14.96 billion in cash and blocking 118 bank accounts.