Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

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Metro Police Block 118 Accounts and Seize Rp 14.9 Billion Linked to Hot51 App

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have dismantled a digital gambling, pornography, and money laundering operation run through the Hot51 application. Investigators blocked 118 bank accounts and seized Rp 14.96 billion in cash, uncovering a complex scheme involving shell companies and a transaction turnover of approximately Rp 559.8 billion. Eight individuals and five corporations have been named as suspects, with a Chinese national listed as a fugitive.

Accelerating Equitable Development Through Digital Space

Indonesia's SATRIA-1 satellite is redefining equitable development by connecting over 31,800 public service points, primarily schools in remote regions, with high-speed internet. The government asserts that the success of digital transformation should be measured by tangible public benefits in education, health, and economic opportunity, rather than just the size of the digital economy. This shift positions digital connectivity as a fundamental service, complementing traditional infrastructure to bridge geographical divides.

PP Presisi EGM approves Rp1.6 trillion divestment to strengthen liquidity

State-owned construction firm PT PP Presisi Tbk has secured shareholder approval to divest its entire stake in PT Lancarjaya Mandiri Abadi for Rp1.6 trillion. The strategic move aims to bolster the company's financial structure by meeting creditor obligations and reducing interest expenses. The divestment aligns with the government's programme for restructuring and managing state-owned enterprise subsidiaries.

Finance Minister Purbaya Gathers Himbara Bank Directors, Places Rp 400 T in Funds

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa convened directors of state-owned banks (Himbara) to address tightening liquidity conditions. The government has decided to increase its fund placements in these banks to a total of Rp 400 trillion by the end of the year. This move aims to calm the banking sector, utilising the government's substantial cash balance of Rp 590 trillion held at Bank Indonesia.

Religious Teachers' Professional Allowance in Mataram Unpaid Since January, Education Agency Explains

Dozens of religious teachers in Mataram have not received their Professional Teacher Allowance (TPG) since January 2026 due to administrative and data collection issues. The Mataram Education Agency stated that the delay occurred because some teachers' data had not been entered into the agency's database, preventing the system from processing payments. The agency is coordinating with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and has urged all public school religious teachers to complete their administrative requirements to resolve the technical obstacles.

ZTE Wins Three Selular Awards 2026 for AI-Based Network Innovation

ZTE Corporation has secured three accolades at the Selular Award 2026 for its contributions to AI-driven network technology in Indonesia. The awards recognise the company's innovations in Fixed Wireless Access, network ecosystems, and native AI baseband infrastructure. The recognition comes as Indonesia's digital economy accelerates, with AI application revenue surging 127% year-on-year and 5G investment projected to contribute USD 41 billion to national GDP by 2030.

US Firm Anthropic Accuses Alibaba of 'Largest' AI Distillation Attack

American AI company Anthropic has accused China's Alibaba of conducting the largest known distillation attack to steal its artificial intelligence capabilities. The alleged operation involved 28.8 million transactions using 25,000 fake accounts over a six-week period. Anthropic is urging coordinated action between government and industry to counter what it describes as an intensifying threat to American AI leadership.

Government Finds No Indication of Negligence in Deaths of Three SPPI Participants During Military Training

The Indonesian government has stated it has not yet found any indication of negligence in the deaths of three Sarjana Penggerak Pembangun Indonesia (SPPI) participants during basic military training. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi confirmed an evaluation of the training process is underway while awaiting further reports. The Ministry of Defence previously confirmed the deaths were due to heat stroke and cardiac arrest.

Bandung's Hasan Sadikin Hospital Forms Specialist Team to Treat Alleged Captivity Victim YTR

Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Bandung has assembled a multidisciplinary specialist team to treat YTR, a woman allegedly held captive and abused by her boyfriend for three years. The team includes plastic surgeons, ophthalmologists, and nutritionists to address her physical wounds and psychological trauma. The suspect, Taufik Hidayat, was arrested by West Java Police on 23 June 2026.

12 Jakarta Areas on Alert for Coastal Flooding Until 3 July

Twelve coastal areas in Jakarta are under a coastal flood warning from 24 June to 3 July 2026 due to a maximum tidal phase coinciding with the full moon. The Jakarta Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has urged residents to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures. The highest tides are expected between 19:00 and midnight WIB.

Lotte Chemical Introduces Industrial World to University of Indonesia Students

PT Lotte Chemical Indonesia hosted 50 chemical engineering students from the University of Indonesia for a company visit at its Cilegon plant. The initiative aimed to bridge the gap between academic theory and industrial practice, covering operational processes, safety culture, and the petrochemical sector's role in national supply chains. The company emphasised that collaboration with universities is key to developing future-ready human resources and strengthening the competitiveness of Indonesia's petrochemical industry.

University Student Challenges 1 Syawal Determination Rule in Constitutional Court

A law student from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta has filed a judicial review with the Constitutional Court against the legal basis for determining 1 Syawal. The petitioner argues that the current law creates legal uncertainty and unfairly legitimises only the rukyat method over the hisab method. He claims this has caused him personal constitutional harm by hindering his religious practices and social life.

UN Invites Indonesians to Act on Climate Change

The United Nations in Indonesia has urged the public to take action against climate change through The Green Community Festival, held in Jakarta to mark World Environment Day 2026. The event featured workshops, talks on green investment, and the announcement of a nationwide school sustainability challenge. Organisers highlighted that climate impacts are increasingly severe, with the most vulnerable communities bearing the brunt of climate-related disasters.

Major Reshuffle at Bali Police: Three Police Chiefs and Key Officials Replaced

The Indonesian National Police has carried out a sweeping rotation of senior and mid-ranking officers within the Bali Regional Police. The reshuffle, formalised in late June 2026, affects key departmental heads and the chiefs of three resort police stations. Officials stated the move is a routine organisational refresh aimed at career development and improving public service delivery.

Businesses Back Danantara as Government Moves to Strengthen Governance and Optimise Export Proceeds

The Indonesian government's establishment of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) is gaining business support as a strategic move to curb billions of dollars in lost state revenue from transfer pricing and under-invoicing. DSI will act as a sole intermediary for strategic commodity exports, with its management pledging a measured transition that preserves existing contracts and the business ecosystem. The initiative aims to plug revenue leakages estimated at US$343 billion over 22 years while maintaining commodity price stability.

Courier Delivering Fridge Ordered by Suspect Taufik Hidayat Goes Viral, Residents Mistake Him for Intelligence Officer

A courier attempting to deliver a refrigerator to the address of Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in a high-profile assault and confinement case, caused alarm among local residents who mistook him for an undercover intelligence officer. The delivery driver, Viki Ramdani, discovered the house was abandoned following the criminal incident and was unable to complete the cash-on-delivery order. The incident highlights the lingering community tension surrounding the suspect's case in Nagreg.

Ministry of Forestry and Emergent Explore Climate and Forestry Funding Cooperation

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry is exploring cooperation with Emergent Forest Finance Accelerator to access international climate finance for emissions reduction. The partnership aims to support Jurisdictional REDD+ implementation and sustainable forest management. The agreement, signed during London Climate Action Week 2026, builds on Indonesia's track record of securing verified emissions reductions through the World Bank-backed FCPF programme.

DPR Approves 4 Efficiency Measures for MBG Programme, Potentially Saving Rp40 Trillion

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Commission IX has approved four efficiency measures for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme proposed by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). The measures, which include reducing the number of beneficiaries and adjusting service incentives, are projected to save the state budget up to Rp40 trillion. The BGN has been given two weeks to finalise the calculations for these savings.

Pegadaian and Pupuk Kaltim Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Financial Inclusion

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian and fertiliser producer PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur have signed a three-year memorandum of understanding to enhance financial literacy and employee welfare. The partnership aims to integrate Pegadaian's investment and financing services within Pupuk Kaltim's workforce, promoting a healthy investment culture. Both companies view the collaboration as a model for national corporate synergy in advancing sustainable financial inclusion.

Cooperatives Minister Partners with Presidential Staff Office to Strengthen Village Cooperative Operations

Minister of Cooperatives Ferry Juliantono is accelerating the operational framework for 1,061 Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) to ensure the presidential priority programme delivers tangible economic impact. A key recommendation from a coordination meeting with the Presidential Staff Office (KSP) is the swift issuance of a Presidential Regulation to provide a legal foundation. Joint field inspections involving the KSP, Agrinas, and the military are planned to address technical obstacles and ensure all cooperatives meet their targets by year-end.

Bandung's Cicaheum Bus Terminal, Known from 'Preman Pensiun', Closes Today

The Cicaheum bus terminal in Bandung, a location made famous by the television series 'Preman Pensiun', has officially ceased all intercity and interprovincial bus services as of today. All operations have been relocated to the Leuwipanjang terminal, marking a significant shift in the city's public transport network. While traders are temporarily allowed to remain, the city government is still finalising a compensation scheme for them.

UNM Partners with FIFGROUP, Expanding Internship and Recruitment Opportunities for Students

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) is strengthening its ties with industry through a new partnership with PT Federal International Finance (FIFGROUP) Depok branch. The collaboration aims to enhance the career ecosystem for students and alumni via campus hiring, job fairs, and internship programmes. Both parties view the initiative as a strategic step to align graduate competencies with the demands of the modern workforce.

Man Enters Women-Only Carriage on Manggarai-Bogor KRL, KAI Issues Appeal

A video showing a man entering and remaining in a women-only carriage on a KRL commuter train travelling from Manggarai to Bogor has gone viral on social media. KAI Commuter confirmed the incident occurred on Thursday and stated that security officers identified the man shortly after departure from Manggarai station. The operator has urged all passengers to respect the rules and report similar violations to on-board staff.

Daughter of Bluebird taxi driver becomes civil servant after company scholarship

Annisya Rizky Novalia, whose father drives for Bluebird, has become a civil servant after receiving a scholarship from the taxi company in 2016. She and her two siblings all benefited from the Bluebird Peduli Scholarship programme and now work as ASN. The company views the programme, which has reached around 70,000 beneficiaries since 1998, as an investment in the families of its drivers and employees.

Nickel Royalty Adjustment Could Boost State Revenue by Rp35 Trillion: Bahlil

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has stated that the government's adjustment of royalty rates for nickel, coal, and other minerals could generate an additional Rp30 trillion to Rp35 trillion in annual state revenue. The policy is part of a broader strategy to strengthen state finances and maintain energy subsidies without increasing subsidised fuel prices. Combined with higher oil and gas revenues, the total contribution from the energy and mineral resources sector is expected to reach Rp160 trillion.

Kim Jong Un Oversees Weapons Test Threatening South Korean Capital

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised a test of upgraded artillery and missile systems with a range capable of striking parts of Seoul. Analysts described the demonstration as a show of force aimed at South Korea, with Pyongyang detailing the weapons' ability to target airfields, ports, and power plants. The test underscores rising tensions on the Korean peninsula, with Kim vowing to enhance both defensive and offensive military capabilities.

Jokowi Proposes Two Terms for Prabowo-Gibran, State Secretary Urges Focus on Current Work

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has responded cautiously to former President Joko Widodo's suggestion that President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka should serve two terms. Hadi stated the government is currently focused on resolving pressing issues such as employment, civil service management, and industrial downstreaming. Jokowi has repeatedly urged his volunteer networks and political allies to support the Prabowo-Gibran administration through to the 2029-2034 period.

Metro Police Secure 5,000 Drug Suspects in Six Months

The Metro Jaya Regional Police and its precincts have uncovered 3,809 drug-related cases and arrested over 5,000 suspects in the first half of 2026. Authorities seized 17.45 tonnes of narcotics and dangerous pharmaceuticals valued at Rp 1.7 trillion. The police estimate these operations prevented potential substance abuse among approximately 15.9 million Indonesians.

Home Affairs Ministry Prepares New 2027 Regional Budget Scheme, Regions Required to Tag Food Security Spending

Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs is introducing a new budget tagging mechanism for the 2027 Regional Budget (APBD) to ensure local governments allocate funds towards national food security priorities. The policy, socialised to all regional administrations, aims to synchronise local planning with the 2025โ€“2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN). The instrument is designed to guarantee that regional expenditure directly supports food availability, affordability, distribution, and the sustainability of local food systems.

Curriculum Changes, Inequality Persists: Who Has Failed?

Despite successive curriculum reforms in Indonesia, from the Competency-Based Curriculum to the Merdeka Curriculum, deep-rooted educational inequality remains unaddressed. The article argues that disparities in teacher quality, infrastructure, and socioeconomic background mean that a new curriculum alone cannot guarantee equal learning opportunities. It suggests that without equitable resource distribution, schools risk reproducing social stratification rather than dismantling it.

Rasuna Said Car Free Day Cancelled on 28 June, Events Focused on Bundaran HI

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced the cancellation of the Car Free Day on Jalan HR Rasuna Said on Sunday, 28 June, to concentrate activities for Jakarta's 499th anniversary and Bhayangkara Day around the Sudirman-Thamrin area. Traffic management will be implemented to support the two major events centred at the Bundaran Hotel Indonesia. The decision aims to consolidate public activities and celebrations in a single location.

After IPO Scandal, PIPA Plans Rights Issue Fundraising

PT Multi Makmur Lemindo Tbk (PIPA) is planning a rights issue to strengthen its capital structure, shortly after receiving layered sanctions from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) over its 2023 financial statements. The OJK previously fined the company and its directors, and banned a former president director from the capital market for five years due to inadequate evidence for asset recognition from IPO funds. The company's auditor was also suspended for failing to apply professional standards during the audit.

Kompas Survey: Public Trust in National Police Rises to 82.4 Percent

A recent survey by Litbang Kompas indicates a significant increase in public trust in the Indonesian National Police, reaching 82.4 percent in the second quarter of 2026. The rise is accompanied by improvements in the institution's positive image and public satisfaction with its services. Respondents also noted enhanced professionalism and better facilities at police stations.

Metro Jaya Police Uncover Online Gambling Case Using Pornographic Live Streams, 8 Suspects Arrested

Metro Jaya Regional Police have dismantled an online gambling, digital pornography, and money laundering operation linked to the HOT51 application. Eight individual suspects and five corporate entities have been named, with an estimated transaction turnover of IDR 559.8 billion. The investigation also revealed that proceeds were channelled into physical gambling businesses disguised as arcades.

KSPSI President Reveals 55,000 Workers at Risk of Layoffs, One Company Already Shut Down

The President of the Confederation of All-Indonesian Workers' Unions (KSPSI) has warned that approximately 55,000 workers face imminent redundancy, with one company, PT Granito, already ceasing operations. The union leader highlighted an industrial gas crisis and issues surrounding work plans and budgets (RKAB) as key factors threatening jobs. He expressed hope that the government would make swift decisions to avert a wider crisis affecting up to 150,000 workers.

Labuan Bajo Immigration Strengthens Foreigner Surveillance, Establishes TIMPORA in Manggarai Regency

The Labuan Bajo Immigration Office has intensified inter-agency coordination to monitor foreign nationals in Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, by forming a Foreigner Surveillance Team (TIMPORA). The initiative aims to unify perceptions and enhance data sharing among local authorities, given the high mobility of foreign tourists, clergy, and expatriate workers in the area. Immigration officials also urged accommodation providers to consistently use the mandatory Foreigner Reporting Application (APOA) to support early detection and ensure compliance with visa regulations.

INACO Readies for IPO as Profit Triples on Portfolio Strategy

Indonesian food and beverage company PT Niramas Utama, known for its INACO brand, is set to list on the Indonesia Stock Exchange on 7 July 2026. The company reported a 220% surge in net profit to Rp38.4 billion in 2025, driven by a strategic culling of low-margin products despite a slight dip in revenue. Proceeds from the IPO will primarily fund an expansion into the gummy candy segment and enhance production efficiency.

Commitment to Safeguard Jakarta: Metro Police Target 3 Crime Clusters Throughout 2026

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have detailed their crackdown on three major crime clusters threatening public order, morality, and the nation's future. The operations target online gambling, land-based gambling disguised as arcades, and narcotics distribution. The initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita programme and the National Police's 'Presisi' operational transformation.

World Day Against Torture: Komnas Perempuan Urges State to Strengthen Victim Protection

Indonesia's National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has called for stronger state commitment to eradicating gender-based torture, warning that such abuses often go unrecognised. The commission highlighted that torture against women extends beyond physical violence to include degrading procedures, customs, and policies. It urged the government to integrate a gender perspective into law enforcement and provide comprehensive recovery services for victims.

PT MMS President Director Detained by Bareskrim After 87 Containers Searched in Palm Oil Export Manipulation Case

The president director of PT Mitra Mentari Sentosa (MMS) has been formally detained by the Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) following a probe into alleged export data manipulation. Investigators suspect the company engaged in under-invoicing for palm oil derivative exports, potentially causing state losses. The detention follows the search of 87 containers and an analysis of 95 export activities to China between 2024 and 2026.

Banten Governor Welcomes Tangerang Selatan as Host for National Muslim Student Congress

The Banten provincial government has endorsed Tangerang Selatan as the venue for the 9th Congress of the Indonesian Muslim Students Union (SEMMI), expected to draw around 1,000 delegates from all 34 provinces. Governor Andra Soni expressed support during a meeting with the organisation's leadership, highlighting the event's role in national consolidation and its potential economic benefits for local businesses. The congress will serve as a forum for leadership elections and strategic discussions on the organisation's contribution to national development.

South Jakarta Dukcapil records 654,121 residents have activated digital ID

The South Jakarta Population and Civil Registration Agency (Dukcapil) reports that 654,121 residents, or 38.04 per cent of electronic ID card holders, have activated their Digital Population Identity (IKD). This figure surpasses the DKI Jakarta provincial average of 36.62 per cent. The agency is intensifying outreach, including mobile services to schools and neighbourhoods, to support the transition towards a fully digital administrative ecosystem.

SPPI Training Evaluated After Three Participants Die

The Indonesian government is evaluating the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) training programme following the deaths of three participants during basic military training. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi expressed condolences and confirmed a review of all procedures. The programme prepares managers for village cooperatives and fishing villages, with the Defence Ministry confirming causes of death including heat stroke and cardiac arrest.

Government to Strengthen Kopdes Merah Putih Operations with Presidential Regulation, Evaluates 1,061 Cooperatives

The Indonesian government is preparing a Presidential Regulation to provide a stronger legal basis for the operations of the Kopdes Merah Putih village cooperative programme. This follows an evaluation of 1,061 cooperatives that have already been launched, including a review of the pilot project in Nganjuk Regency. The coordinating meeting with the Presidential Staff Office and the TNI aimed to gather input for improving the programme's physical development and operational effectiveness.

IHSG Valuation at Crisis Levels, 7,500 Target by End of 2026, Here Are the Stock Recommendations

UOB Kay Hian reports that the Indonesian Stock Exchange Composite Index (IHSG) is trading at crisis-level valuations, with a forward P/E of 9.8x, the lowest since the COVID-19 pandemic. The firm has set an IHSG target of 7,500 for the end of 2026, implying a potential 25 per cent upside, and recommends selective accumulation focusing on banking, commodities, and defensive stocks. Key risks include further rupiah weakening, a sovereign rating downgrade, and fiscal slippage.

KuPP urges stronger monitoring access in correctional facilities

Indonesia's Cooperation Working Group for the Prevention of Torture (KuPP) has called for improved access for monitoring activities within correctional facilities to bolster the national torture prevention system. The appeal follows an incident where monitors were made to wait over two hours during a visit to Cibinong Prison, raising concerns about transparency. The group, comprising six state institutions, aims to identify risks of torture and maladministration to strengthen human rights protections.

Jokowi's PSI Jacket and Cap During Blusukan Were Gifts from Kaesang

Former President Joko Widodo began a political safari in Lampung wearing PSI attire, which he revealed was a gift from his son and party chairman, Kaesang Pangarep. Jokowi stated his role is to motivate party cadres and emphasise structural strengthening ahead of the 2029 elections. His three-day visit includes meetings with local figures and cultural events across five districts.

Bahlil Reveals Indonesia's Strategy to Curb Fuel Imports

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has outlined a strategy to reduce Indonesia's heavy reliance on imported fuel, which currently accounts for over 60% of national demand. The plan focuses on boosting domestic production through new refinery capacity and expanding the use of biofuel, specifically an E20 ethanol blend. Bahlil argued that cutting imports would not only strengthen energy independence but also eliminate opportunities for rent-seeking and corruption.

AWG Supports Second Anti-Zionist Jewish Congress in Ireland

The Aqsa Working Group (AWG) has expressed its support for the second Jewish Anti-Zionist Congress (JAZIC) in Dublin, despite being unable to attend due to visa issues. The organisation views the congress as a crucial platform for strengthening international solidarity against Zionism, which it frames as a humanitarian rather than religious struggle. AWG has also proposed that Indonesia host the third congress, citing the country's consistent support for Palestinian independence.

Culture Minister says cinema investment opportunities remain wide open

Indonesia's Culture Minister Fadli Zon has stated that the country needs around 10,000 cinema screens to meet market potential, far above the current 2,500. He highlighted that many regions, including the birthplace of film pioneer Usmar Ismail, still lack cinemas. The government is working to strengthen the film ecosystem to attract investment and broaden public access to the cinema experience.