Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

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Indonesia and Emergent Explore Climate Funding to Meet National Emission Targets

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry is collaborating with Emergent Forest Finance Accelerator to explore international climate funding opportunities. The partnership aims to support Jurisdictional REDD+ implementation, leveraging Indonesia's verified emission reductions to attract results-based payments. This initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen forest governance and carbon market infrastructure.

LOTTE Chemical Indonesia Hosts University of Indonesia Chemical Engineering Students to Strengthen Industry-Education Synergy

PT LOTTE Chemical Indonesia (LCI) welcomed 50 chemical engineering students from the University of Indonesia for a company visit at its Cilegon facility, aiming to bridge academic knowledge with practical industry experience. The visit included interactive talks and a site tour, highlighting operational processes, safety, and the petrochemical sector's role in the national supply chain. LCI's President Director emphasised that collaboration between academia and industry is crucial for developing future talent and supporting sustainable growth in Indonesia's petrochemical industry.

Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Headquarters Managed 145 Sites, Deposits Reached IDR 13.9 Trillion

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has revealed that an international online gambling syndicate based in Hayam Wuruk, West Jakarta, managed 145 gambling websites. Digital forensic analysis of one platform showed total deposits amounting to IDR 13.9 trillion. Authorities have named 287 foreign nationals as suspects, with the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) conducting further investigations into the financial flows.

Transforming Values Towards Gontor's Second Century

As Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor marks its centenary, a senior Islamic scholar reflects on the institution's legacy of educational innovation and its founding values. He argues that the pesantren's 'Panca Jiwa' principles and motto remain relevant, even predating UNESCO's four pillars of education. The challenge for the next century is to maintain this spiritual core while evolving methodologies to ensure student success.

Not Just Purbaya: These Countries Are Ditching the Dollar and Pursuing Panda Bonds

Indonesia is preparing to issue Panda Bonds, yuan-denominated debt in China's domestic market, with a target issuance of around US$1 billion by early July 2026. The move aligns with a growing trend of nations, including South Korea, the Philippines, and Brazil, diversifying their funding sources away from the US dollar. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has engaged with the People's Bank of China to expedite the licensing process for the upcoming issuance.

UMS Rector Stresses OBE as Key Focus at ALPTK PTMA National Meeting in Lampung

The Rector of Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) has highlighted the implementation of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) as a central focus of the 17th National Working Meeting of the Muhammadiyah-'Aisyiyah Teacher Training Association (ALPTK PTMA) in Lampung. The forum aims to strengthen curriculum transformation, enhance research quality, and improve graduate competitiveness. The event also featured policy announcements from the Deputy Minister of Education, including the abolition of honorary teachers in state schools and changes to teacher certification requirements.

HIV Transmission Pattern in Central Java Shifts to Homosexual Relations

Health authorities in Central Java have reported a shift in HIV transmission patterns, with new cases increasingly occurring among men who have sex with men (MSM). While overall HIV case numbers in the province have shown a downward trend from 2024 to 2026, the demographic profile has changed from primarily involving housewives infected by their husbands to predominantly affecting males. Semarang recorded the highest number of new cases between January and May 2026, with 225 infections.

Japan Aims to Double Women in STEM by 2040

The Japanese government has announced a policy target to double the proportion of women in university engineering departments to 36 per cent by 2040. The initiative addresses labour shortages in strategic fields such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence, and includes measures to improve workplace accessibility and work-life balance. The government also briefly addressed the controversial issue of allowing married couples to retain separate surnames.

Jakarta Anniversary Peak Event: Transjakarta Service Modifications on 27 June

Transjakarta will adjust its services on Saturday, 27 June 2026, due to traffic engineering for the peak celebration of Jakarta's 499th anniversary at the Bundaran HI area. Modifications include restricted operating hours, route diversions, and shortened routes for several corridors. Passengers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and use the TJ app for the latest information.

Minister of Law Urges Staff to Immediately Process Similar Complaints in 'Pasti Ada Solusi'

Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas has instructed his staff to promptly resolve complaints that mirror those already addressed in the 'Pasti Ada Solusi' programme. He emphasised that resolved cases should serve as a reference for handling similar future complaints without requiring repeated public inquiries. The initiative is part of the government's effort to improve public service responsiveness and transparency.

KPK Alleges Project Conditioning in Ministry of Transportation Extends Beyond Railway Directorate

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects that the practice of rigging projects within the Ministry of Transportation is not confined to the Directorate General of Railways. Investigators believe certain vendors were pre-selected to win projects in other ministry divisions, with subsequent illicit payments made to officials. The probe is expanding from an initial case involving railway construction and maintenance projects.

Government Postpones Panda Bond Issuance

The Indonesian government has delayed the issuance of its Panda Bond to late July 2026 to accommodate strong investor interest from China. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the postponement allows Chinese banks and fund managers more time to prepare proposals. The bond, denominated in renminbi, is part of a strategy to diversify funding sources away from US dollar dominance.

Evaluation of Free Nutritious Meals Continues, National Nutrition Agency Prepares Budget Efficiency

The Indonesian government is planning significant budget cuts for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme as part of efforts to improve governance. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa confirmed the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) proposed the efficiency measures, which could reach around IDR 40 trillion. The Ministry of Finance will also strengthen oversight of the programme's implementation across regions.

Metro Jaya Police Chief Commits to Cracking Down on Gambling and Drugs in Support of President's Asta Cita

Metro Jaya Police Chief Inspector General Asep Edi Suheri has announced a major crackdown on gambling, pornography, and narcotics, framing the operation as a commitment to President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita programme. Thousands of suspects have been named in cases involving digital gambling platforms and drug trafficking. The police emphasised that the enforcement action aims to protect public morality, family resilience, and the future of the nation.

Indonesia seeks expanded partnership with University of Nottingham

Indonesia's government has expressed a strong desire to deepen its educational and research collaboration with the University of Nottingham. The partnership aims to scale up joint research, professor exchanges, and talent development, with a focus on critical areas like green energy, battery technology, and food security. Both parties discussed leveraging the university's global campuses to launch joint and double-degree programs for Indonesian students.

East Jakarta Court Prepares Security and Facilities Ahead of Doctor Tifa's Trial

The East Jakarta District Court is arranging security measures and additional facilities for the upcoming defamation trial of Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, scheduled for 2 July 2026. The preparations aim to manage an anticipated surge in visitors and include access controls, police coordination, and outdoor viewing areas. The case involves allegations of slander and defamation related to the authenticity of former President Joko Widodo's academic certificates.

Banyuwangi Farmers Process Rejected Dragon Fruit into Value-Added Products

Farmers in Banyuwangi, East Java, are processing substandard dragon fruit into sale, dodol, and liquid organic fertiliser to reduce waste and boost income. The initiative, supported by the Astra Foundation, has generated an estimated Rp459 million in sales since March 2024. The group has also obtained organic certification and is exploring export opportunities to the Netherlands.

The Pareto Technique: The Secret Behind Gontor's Rapid Learning Success

This article explores the application of the Pareto principle in education, contrasting modern demands for efficient, practical learning with the traditional, process-oriented methods of Islamic boarding schools like Gontor. It examines the philosophical debate between achieving quick results and the deeper value of classical approaches, which emphasise patience, spiritual connection, and intellectual lineage. The piece also notes that efforts to simplify learning, such as the standardisation of the Qur'an, have historical precedents within Islamic scholarship.

Sustainable Design Earns Nusantara Capital City International Award

The Plaza Seremoni in Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara (IKN), has won the Honour Award at the Malaysia Landscape Architecture Awards 2026. The award recognises the plaza's integration of aesthetics, public function, and sustainable design principles. OIKN Head Basuki Hadimuljono stated the achievement reinforces IKN's position as a modern, liveable capital city ahead of its planned role as the political capital by 2028.

Police Arrest China's Most Wanted Fugitive at Soekarno-Hatta Airport

Indonesian police have arrested Zheng Rongjing, a high-profile fugitive on Interpol Beijing's most wanted list, at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Zheng is believed to be a major figure in an international online scam network operating from a large compound in Cambodia. Authorities are investigating his reasons for entering Indonesia, suspecting an existing local infrastructure was prepared to facilitate his illegal activities.

Banten Customs Issues Bonded Zone Licence in One Hour to Boost PT Suma Artha Perkasa Exports

The Banten Regional Office of Customs and Excise has granted a bonded zone licence to PT Suma Artha Perkasa, approving the permit within one hour of the company's business presentation. The facility provides fiscal incentives including import duty suspension and tax exemptions to enhance the company's competitiveness. The firm, which already exports to the United States, plans to expand its market reach and increase local employment.

NASA Satellite Captures Megatsunami, Scientists Reveal Surprising Facts

A NASA satellite has captured high-resolution images of a megatsunami triggered by a massive earthquake off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula in July 2025. The data revealed unexpectedly complex wave patterns, challenging previous assumptions about tsunami behaviour. Scientists believe the findings could significantly improve early warning systems and risk assessments for Pacific coastal nations, including Indonesia.

CPTPP Opens Preliminary Talks for Indonesia, Philippines, and UAE Membership

The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) has agreed to begin preliminary discussions on the accession of Indonesia, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates. This initial step, agreed upon by the 12 member nations, will assess the applicants' domestic systems and trade rules against the pact's standards before formal negotiations can commence. The move highlights the growing importance of the free trade framework amid rising global protectionism.

Transjakarta to Discontinue Routes 1N and 10D by End of June

PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) will cease operations of routes 1N (Tanah Abang–Blok M) and 10D (Tanjung Priok–Kampung Rambutan) on 30 June 2026. The decision aims to optimise services by reducing route overlaps and improving efficiency. The company has prepared alternative travel routes to ensure continued passenger mobility.

Yogyakarta Train Passengers Surge 21 Percent During School Holidays

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Operational Area 6 in Yogyakarta recorded a 21 percent increase in long-distance train passengers during the school holiday period, with total volume reaching 54,622 on Friday alone. Yogyakarta Station was the busiest hub, and the operator has introduced a 30 percent fare discount on select economy services to accommodate the surge. KAI has also enhanced station facilities, including free children's play areas, to ensure passenger comfort and safety.

Will the British PM's Resignation Weaken European Security?

The resignation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has prompted European leaders to acknowledge his significant contributions to continental security, particularly regarding Ukraine. Starmer was a key figure in the 'Coalition of the Willing' and the E3 format, but his departure raises questions about the future momentum of UK-EU defence cooperation. The incoming prime minister, likely Andy Burnham, is expected to maintain a pro-European stance, though his foreign policy priorities remain unclear.

Why the Younger Generation Finds It Hard to Disconnect from Screens

The pervasive use of smartphones and social media among Indonesian youth is fuelling a cycle of digital dependency driven by persuasive platform designs and a fear of missing out. While technology offers significant benefits for education and communication, experts warn that excessive screen time is impacting real-world social connections, concentration, and mental health. The challenge for the younger generation is shifting from merely accessing technology to mastering self-control and managing their attention.

All BTS Sites Affected by Palu Earthquake Fully Restored, Says Ministry

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has confirmed the full restoration of all 29 base transceiver station (BTS) sites in Palu, Central Sulawesi, that were disrupted by a magnitude 6.7 earthquake. The recovery was completed by the morning of 19 June 2026, with ongoing monitoring to ensure stable telecommunications services. The earthquake, which struck on 16 June, had caused transmission and power supply disruptions.

Indonesia's Concrete Actions to Safeguard Energy Security

The Indonesian government is pursuing a multi-pronged strategy to bolster national energy security, including reactivating thousands of idle oil wells and accelerating exploration in Eastern Indonesia. Amidst global geopolitical tensions, officials emphasise the need for consistency in the energy transition, with major projects underway such as a 100 GW solar power plant and the B50 biodiesel mandate. Despite global challenges, Indonesia's energy resilience has been recognised internationally, with JPMorgan recently ranking it second best among 52 countries.

East Jakarta Court Appoints Panel of Judges for Tifa in Jokowi Diploma Case

The East Jakarta District Court has appointed a panel of judges to preside over the criminal case against Tifauzia Tyassuma, also known as Doctor Tifa, who is accused of defamation regarding the authenticity of President Jokowi's diploma. The panel will be led by Judge Christina Endarwati, with Rudi Rafli Siregar and Mathilda Chrystina Katarina serving as member judges. The first hearing is scheduled for 2 July 2026.

B50: The Ambition of Energy Self-Sufficiency and the Gamble on Its Economic Sustainability

Indonesia's plan to mandate B50 biodiesel by July 2026 promises significant foreign exchange savings by halting diesel imports, but it poses serious structural risks. The aggressive diversion of palm oil from exports to domestic energy use threatens to slash export volumes, potentially eroding state revenue and ceding global market share to competitors. The policy's long-term viability hinges on balancing fiscal gains against the economic impact on the nation's leading commodity sector.

Government Prepares Special Scheme for Free Nutritious Meals in Underdeveloped Regions

The Indonesian government is designing a special distribution mechanism for its Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to reach underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions. The current model, which relies on centralised service units serving 2,000 to 2,500 beneficiaries within a six-kilometre radius, is deemed ineffective for sparsely populated areas with difficult geography. Alternatives being considered include using school canteens as distribution hubs to ensure the programme still helps reduce stunting and improve child nutrition.

Somali Refugees Urge UNHCR to Accelerate Third-Country Resettlement

Somali asylum seekers in Jakarta are protesting to demand the UN refugee agency speed up their resettlement to third countries. The refugees have been taking turns occupying tents near the UNHCR office to voice their frustration over prolonged waiting periods. Indonesian immigration authorities are coordinating with local task forces to monitor the situation, noting that regional governments hold primary authority for refugee handling under a 2016 presidential regulation.

Police Reshuffle: Metro Jaya's Propam Chief and District Police Chiefs Replaced

The Indonesian National Police has carried out a major reshuffle affecting 1,121 high and mid-ranking officers, including key positions within the Metro Jaya Regional Police. Notable changes include the appointment of a new Chief of the Professional and Internal Security Division (Propam) and several district police chiefs. The police force stated the rotation is a routine measure to enhance professionalism and institutional performance.

Israel Fears New 'Silk Road' Linking Saudi Arabia and Turkey

Israel is reportedly lobbying the Trump administration to oppose a proposed trade corridor connecting the Gulf to Europe via Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, and Turkey, fearing it could undermine its strategic and economic position by diverting regional trade flows away from Israeli infrastructure.

Indonesia's DPR, govt strengthen coordination to mitigate layoffs

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives (DPR) are intensifying coordination to prevent a wave of layoffs through a newly formed task force led by State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi. The task force will map industrial problems on a case-by-case basis, addressing issues ranging from declining demand to internal management conflicts, and will collaborate with the National Police's Labor Desk. This initiative underscores the state's commitment to safeguarding employment and ensuring companies meet their obligations to affected workers.

YTR Tortured by Taufik Hidayat in Four Locations: Eyes Struck with Iron, Face Beaten with Helmet

A 30-year-old man has been arrested for the systematic torture and false imprisonment of a 29-year-old woman, leaving her permanently blind and with severe physical disabilities. The abuse occurred across four different rented accommodations in West Java between 2024 and 2026. Police detailed a pattern of escalating violence, including beatings with an iron bar and a helmet, as well as slashing with a sharp object.

Indonesia Rejects IMF Loan Offer of Up to IDR 487 Trillion, Citing Strong Fiscal Position

The Indonesian government has declined a loan offer from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) worth between US$20 billion and US$30 billion. Officials stated the country's fiscal condition and economic fundamentals remain robust and under control. The financing was deemed unnecessary as it is typically designed for nations facing high-risk or emergency economic situations.

Transjakarta to Discontinue Routes 1N and 10D from 1 July, Replacement Routes Announced

PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) will cease operations of routes 1N (Tanah Abang–Blok M) and 10D (Tanjung Priok–Kampung Rambutan) starting 1 July 2026 following a service evaluation. The decision aims to optimise fleet utilisation and address overlapping services. Alternative routes and transit points have been prepared to ensure continued mobility for affected passengers.

SIG's Rumah BUMN Records Rp6.9 Billion in Transactions, Strengthens MSME Competitiveness

The Rumah BUMN programme in Rembang, managed by a subsidiary of state-owned cement producer SIG, has facilitated cumulative transactions worth Rp6.9 billion and absorbed over 2,100 local workers. The initiative provides comprehensive business incubation, including training and digital marketing support, to 580 micro, small, and medium enterprises. SIG views the programme as a key part of its sustainability strategy to create shared value and drive inclusive local economic growth.

PZZA Expands into Yoghurt Business, Acquires 52 Percent Stake in HAY

PT Sarimelati Kencana Tbk. (PZZA), the operator of Pizza Hut in Indonesia, has acquired a 52 percent controlling stake in PT Halal Artisan Yummies (HAY) for Rp10.4 billion. The acquisition marks PZZA's expansion into the frozen yoghurt segment through the Hayo brand. The company expects the transaction to contribute to future revenue growth and strengthen its position in the food and beverage industry.

ESDM temporarily halts coal exports to secure electricity system

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources temporarily suspended certain coal exports to ensure sufficient supply for domestic power plants. With 141 million metric tonnes of coal now secured against an annual requirement of 154 million, export activities have returned to normal. The government will intensify oversight of PLN's primary energy procurement involving the BPKP and the ministry's inspectorate to mitigate future supply risks.

JAFF Market 2026 aims to strengthen film ecosystem through collaboration

The Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF) Market 2026 is set to return as a collaborative platform designed to bolster Indonesia's national film ecosystem. Organisers stress that audience numbers alone are not the sole metric of success, emphasising the need to connect creators with investors and distributors. The event, supported by Amar Bank, seeks to expand domestic market access for Indonesian films and foster sustainable industry growth.

KPK probes alleged project fee collection in examination of former Transport Ministry director

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the alleged collection of fees from various projects within the Ministry of Transportation. The probe involves Danto Restyawan, a former director at the ministry, and is part of a broader bribery case concerning railway construction and maintenance projects. The KPK suspects the illicit funds were distributed to officials, including a member of the House of Representatives.

Rupiah Nears 18,000, Gold and Stocks Rise

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to around 17,980 against the US dollar as higher US inflation data fuelled expectations of prolonged tight monetary policy. In contrast, the Jakarta Composite Index opened slightly higher despite regional market weakness, while global gold prices recovered to approximately US$4,020 per troy ounce. Market participants are now awaiting further economic data for direction.

Facts Behind BPK Findings Highlighted by PB HMI on Reclamation and Post-Mining in Southeast Sulawesi

The Executive Board of the Islamic Students' Association (PB HMI) has urged stronger governance of reclamation and post-mining activities in Southeast Sulawesi, citing a 2023 audit by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK). The BPK findings revealed widespread non-compliance, including hundreds of mining permits lacking mandatory reclamation plans and environmental documents. The organisation is calling for a thorough investigation to ensure mining companies adhere to regulations and protect the environment.

ESDM Assures Domestic Gas Supply Remains Secure

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has confirmed that natural gas supplies for domestic industry are secure. The assurance follows a coordination meeting to align upstream supply data with actual industrial demand, aiming to prevent future claims of shortages. The government is also seeking solutions to mitigate price increases affecting industries not covered by the subsidised HGBT scheme.

Presidential Chief of Staff Confirms Prabowo's Claim of Paid Protests

Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman has backed President Prabowo Subianto's assertion that recent demonstrations were funded by certain parties, stating the information is accurate. Dudung urged the public to focus on the broader benefits of government programmes like the free nutritious meal initiative rather than isolated shortcomings. He also indicated that legal steps would follow if the claims of paid protests are proven true.

House in Benhil Collapses Due to Riverbank Erosion

A house on the banks of the Ciliwung River in Bendungan Hilir, Central Jakarta, collapsed early Friday morning due to severe riverbank erosion. The building was completely destroyed, but no casualties were reported as the owner had evacuated a week earlier after noticing widening cracks. Authorities have cordoned off the area and are investigating the incident.

Reading the changing housing preferences of the digital generation

The concept of an ideal home in Indonesia is shifting among younger generations, who now prioritise location, flexibility, and multifunctionality over sheer size. This transformation, driven by digital lifestyles and urban growth, is increasing demand for compact apartments, mixed-use developments, and transit-oriented housing.