Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

Showing 901-950 of 1,505 articles

Gilimanuk Port Congested Again, Tailback Reaches 1.5 km

Severe congestion stretching 1.5 kilometres has hit Gilimanuk Port in Bali due to bad weather and a surge in vehicle numbers. The backlog was compounded by a reduction in cargo ships at Tanjung Wangi, forcing lorries to divert to Ketapang Port. Authorities are attempting to accelerate loading and unloading to ease the bottleneck.

Strait of Hormuz Heats Up Again, Cargo Ship Attacked

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have escalated following a drone attack on a cargo ship, marking the first reported incident since the US and Iran agreed to diplomatic talks. The attack occurred hours after Iran's Revolutionary Guard warned vessels to use Tehran-approved routes for safe passage. No casualties or pollution were reported, but the incident challenges US claims of restored security in the strategic waterway.

Govt appoints State Secretariat Minister to head new layoff task force

The Indonesian government has established a new task force to mitigate layoffs, appointing State Secretariat Minister Hadi as its head. The task force will map systemic industrial issues, monitor corporate distress with the police, and take a case-by-case approach to resolving crises. It has also pledged swift action against firms that fail to meet severance obligations, addressing job cuts driven by both supply chain disruptions and internal governance failures.

Banten Police Uncover Special Hajj Fraud Scheme, Victims Lose Rp7.6 Billion

The Banten Regional Police have arrested two suspects for allegedly defrauding a business owner of Rp7.65 billion in a special hajj travel scam. The suspects promised 19 pilgrims a VIP 'Mujamalah' package with upgraded facilities but failed to secure their visas or departures. One suspect was apprehended while allegedly attempting to flee abroad.

Polda Metro Unveils Evidence in Gambling, Drug, and Money Laundering Cases Worth Billions

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police (Polda Metro Jaya) displayed a massive haul of evidence from multiple criminal cases, including hundreds of kilograms of narcotics and billions of rupiah in cash. The seized items, linked to gambling, drug trafficking, and money laundering, were presented alongside dozens of detained suspects. The exhibition underscores a major crackdown on organised crime in the capital.

Appointed as Head of Layoff Task Force, State Secretary: We Are Mitigating Layoff Issues One by One

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has been appointed to lead a new task force aimed at mitigating layoffs in Indonesia. The task force will map industrial problems and coordinate with the police and parliament to prevent a wave of job losses. It will address potential layoffs on a case-by-case basis, including ensuring companies that have already cut jobs fulfil their outstanding obligations to workers.

ATR/BPN Accelerates KKPR Issuance to Govern Airport Ecosystems

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) is accelerating the issuance of Spatial Utilisation Suitability Activities (KKPR) to synchronise spatial plans with the national airport system. The initiative aims to streamline investment, improve land acquisition for public interest, and strengthen spatial control. The move was discussed at a ministerial-level coordination meeting led by Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono.

Foreign Investors Unload These 10 Stocks as JCI Plunges Nearly 3%

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) tumbled almost 3% during the first trading session on Friday, driven by heavy selling pressure. Foreign investors recorded a net sell of Rp442.88 billion, with major state-owned banks and Telkom Indonesia among the most divested stocks. Meanwhile, Bank Central Asia bucked the trend, attracting the largest net foreign buy.

DPR Assures Regional Transfer Figures for 2027 Not Yet Final, Pledges Fair Deliberations

The House of Representatives (DPR) has clarified that the regional transfer (TKD) budget for the 2027 fiscal year remains under discussion and has not been finalised. Commission XI will oversee the formulation process to ensure the fiscal policy is fair and supports regional development needs. The DPR cited the 2026 budget cycle, where an additional Rp43 trillion was allocated, as evidence that regional aspirations are taken seriously during deliberations.

Hormuz Strait Crisis Seen as Potential Global Turning Point, Era of Oil Dominance Said to Begin Fading

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz for over 100 days is being assessed as a pivotal event that could reshape global energy markets. A Reuters columnist argues the crisis has tested the modern energy system's reliance on global supply chains and may accelerate a shift away from oil dependency, particularly in Asia. The situation has drawn comparisons to the 1973 Arab oil embargo, which fundamentally altered energy policies worldwide.

Baznas Prepares Santri to Become Entrepreneurs Through Santripreneur Fashion 2026

Indonesia's National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has launched a fashion-focused entrepreneurship bootcamp to foster economic independence among Islamic boarding school students. The programme aims to transform santri into competitive business owners, not just entrepreneurs who happen to be from pesantren backgrounds. Fifty selected participants from across the country will receive intensive training in digital strategy and marketing, with the top three receiving business capital and ongoing mentorship.

249 Elementary Students in Jakarta Participate in Inspirational Class Programme

A total of 249 students at SD Negeri Menteng Dalam 11 Pagi in South Jakarta took part in an inspirational class programme led by 53 volunteers from state-owned enterprise PT Patra Jasa. The initiative, part of the company's corporate social responsibility, included interactive teaching sessions and donations of educational facilities. The programme aims to support early childhood education and has expanded to South Jakarta after previous editions in Bogor and Bekasi.

Stella urges universities to become foundation in artificial intelligence era

Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Stella Christie has called on universities to serve as a solid foundation amidst the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence. She stressed that while AI offers solutions across various sectors, its use must be approached wisely and based on scientific considerations to ensure sustainable benefits. Christie also highlighted the need to redefine the purpose of higher education, focusing not just on knowledge acquisition but on how science is conducted.

Pertamina Monitors VLCC Tanker Situation in Strait of Hormuz

PT Pertamina is closely monitoring its Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) Pertamina Pride, which remains in the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The company is evaluating security conditions and international recommendations before the vessel proceeds. Meanwhile, another Pertamina vessel, the Gamsunoro, has successfully navigated the strait and reached safe waters.

Huawei Supports Global Telecom Operators in Maximising Token Monetisation through Service, Network, and Computing Integration

At MWC Shanghai 2026, Huawei unveiled innovations integrating services, networks, and computing to help telecom operators monetise data traffic and tokens. The company highlighted the role of 5G-Advanced and AI in driving new revenue streams, with a focus on high uplink capabilities and AI-centric network architecture. Huawei also noted that over 100 million 5G-A users worldwide are accelerating the shift towards experience-based monetisation strategies.

Threat of Mass Layoffs Looms, Labour Boss Urges Government Action

Indonesia's manufacturing sector faces a wave of potential redundancies, with 55,000 jobs at immediate risk and one company already closed, according to union leader Andi Gani Nena Wea. High industrial gas prices are blamed for the crisis, prompting the formation of a cross-ministerial task force led by the Minister of State Secretary. The government is expected to announce decisions on industrial gas and work plans by Monday, aiming for a win-win solution for both workers and employers.

MSCI Warns Indonesia Still at Risk of Downgrade to Frontier Market

MSCI has cautioned that Indonesia remains vulnerable to a potential downgrade from emerging market to frontier market status. The warning underscores ongoing concerns about the country's market accessibility and liquidity. A reclassification would have significant implications for foreign investment flows into Southeast Asia's largest economy.

Mifa-BEL Partners with Bandung's Pandawara Group for 'Earth Service' Environmental Campaign

Two subsidiaries of PT Media Djaya Bersama are collaborating with the youth environmental group Pandawara Group to host a major environmental campaign in West Aceh. The event, featuring a talk show and a 'Plogging Warrior' clean-up, aims to foster public participation in protecting waterways and public spaces. The initiative has garnered support from the local government and numerous corporate partners.

Expert: Early childhood sex education crucial to prevent sexual violence

A professor from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta has stressed the importance of embedding sexuality literacy from an early age using Islamic values as a preventive measure against sexual violence. She argues that the taboo surrounding sex education actually increases individual vulnerability to various forms of abuse. The approach focuses on self-protection, respecting others, and understanding interaction boundaries rather than teaching sexual behaviour.

Three Fatalities in Military Training for Cooperative Managers, Defence Ministry Outlines Next Steps

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence is conducting a comprehensive evaluation of its basic military training programme following the deaths of three prospective managers for the 'Red and White' village cooperative and fishing village initiatives. The review will scrutinise health screening, medical supervision, and emergency response procedures. The ministry expressed deep condolences and emphasised the training is designed to build character and leadership, not to create soldiers.

KuPP says OPCAT ratification will strengthen torture prevention

The Cooperation Working Group for the Prevention of Torture (KuPP) has urged Indonesia to ratify the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT) to bolster the national torture prevention system. The protocol would establish independent monitoring of detention facilities, complementing the 1998 ratification of the main convention. Officials also highlighted that unmet accessibility needs for persons with disabilities and severe bullying cases can constitute forms of torture requiring comprehensive responses.

Infrastructure Sector Gains ESG Leadership Recognition

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) has been named Sector Champion for Infrastructure at the ESG Leadership Award 2026, highlighting its commitment to integrating sustainability into its core business strategy. The award, presented at the Asia-Pacific Sustainable Business & Innovation Forum, recognises the company's consistent application of environmental, social, and governance principles across its geothermal operations. PGE's leadership views ESG not merely as compliance but as a foundation for operational reliability, governance, and supporting Indonesia's national energy transition.

Malaysia to Lower Fuel Prices Starting 1 July

Malaysia is set to reduce the price of subsidised diesel to RM2.10 per litre from 1 July, standardising rates to curb cross-border smuggling. The new price will be restricted to eligible citizens verified via national ID, with a monthly purchase cap of 200 litres.

Coordinating Minister AHY Aims for Passengers to Feel at Home and Shop Comfortably at Soetta Airport While Waiting for Flights

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has outlined plans to enhance the passenger experience at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, targeting a top 10 global ranking by 2029. The strategy involves creating a comfortable environment that encourages travellers to spend money while waiting for flights, learning from leading international airports. The government is also focusing on improving land and rail connectivity from airports to tourist destinations, including developing a water taxi service in Bali to alleviate traffic congestion.

Convicted of Defaming Hotman Paris, Razman Nasution Imprisoned at Cipinang Prison

Razman Arif Nasution has been officially detained at Cipinang Class I Prison in East Jakarta after his conviction for defaming prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea. The execution of the sentence follows a legally binding court decision. Nasution was sentenced to 1 year and 6 months in prison and fined Rp200 million under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law.

Daikin Launches Nationwide Incentive Programme for Nusantara Prestige AC Installers

PT Daikin Airconditioning Indonesia has introduced a six-month incentive programme for technicians installing its locally manufactured Nusantara Prestige air conditioners. The initiative, which marks the first anniversary of the product's launch, offers cash incentives to individual installers and rewards to associations with the highest number of installation claims. Daikin aims to strengthen its after-sales service ecosystem and collaboration with technician associations across Indonesia through this programme.

Umrah Pilgrim Departures to Be Centralised at Soekarno-Hatta Airport's Terminal 2F Starting 1 July

Starting 1 July 2026, all umrah pilgrims using PPIU services will depart from the newly designated Terminal 2F at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The move, mandated by a Directorate General of Civil Aviation circular, aims to provide a more comfortable and orderly travel experience with dedicated facilities. The transition will be implemented in phases, with Long Air, Hainan Airlines, and Saudi Airlines being the first to operate from the terminal.

Baznas Provides Free Mass Circumcision Service at PIQ Al-Misbah Jakarta

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has organised a free mass circumcision event and provided aid to 500 orphans and underprivileged children in North Jakarta. The initiative, held at an Islamic boarding school, combined health services with charitable giving during the Islamic month of Muharram. Baznas emphasised the importance of such collaborations to support vulnerable children and ensure zakat funds deliver tangible community benefits.

Pretrial Hearing for PT JN Owner Delayed as KPK Fails to Attend

The South Jakarta District Court postponed the pretrial hearing of Adjie, the owner of PT Jembatan Nusantara, after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) failed to appear. The KPK requested a two-week delay, but the judge rescheduled the hearing for 3 July 2026. The case involves an ongoing corruption investigation into business cooperation with state-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry.

DIY Cooperative and SME Agency Claims Compliance After Milk Machine Project Corruption Raid

The Yogyakarta Special Region's Cooperative and SME Agency (Dinkop UKM DIY) has defended its procedures following a raid by the High Prosecutor's Office over alleged corruption in a 2023 milk production machine procurement. The agency stated the project, funded by a central government grant worth Rp 8.16 billion, was tendered according to regulations, but the winning contractor failed to complete the work. Investigators have seized 35 documents and are currently calculating state financial losses.

Pramono Signs Bylaw to Tackle Jakarta's Messy Cables

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has signed a new bylaw on integrated utility network facilities (SJOT) to address the capital's long-standing problem of unsightly and hazardous overhead cables. The regulation provides the legal framework to move cables underground, a move previously stalled due to the absence of legislation. The governor noted that several private entities are already prepared to collaborate with the city administration on the project.

The Mask of Sanity

The recent tragedy in Cileunyi, West Java, underscores how perpetrators of violence can hide behind a charming and seemingly normal facade. This phenomenon, known in forensic psychology as the 'mask of sanity', highlights the danger of individuals who lack empathy while maintaining a charismatic social image. Experts argue that understanding such cases requires a multidisciplinary approach involving forensic psychologists and psychiatrists, not just a purely legal perspective.

Russia Claims to Have Shot Down 660 Ukrainian Drones in a Single Night

Russia's defence ministry reported that its air defence systems intercepted and destroyed 660 Ukrainian drones overnight, marking one of the largest single-night drone assaults since the conflict began. The attacks targeted over a dozen regions, including Moscow and annexed Crimea, with a woman reportedly injured in the Tula region. The offensive is part of Kyiv's intensified campaign to disrupt Russian energy infrastructure and military funding.

Construction of Merah Putih Village Cooperative in Cipenjo Stalls, Dudung: There Was a Changeover at the Kodim

Presidential Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman inspected the stalled construction of a Merah Putih Village Cooperative in Bogor, which is only 70 per cent complete. The project has been halted since March due to a leadership transition at the local Military District Command and disputes over land backfilling costs. Dudung pledged to coordinate with the military command to ensure the village economic infrastructure project is completed promptly.

Rupiah Weakens, Health Minister Says Drug Prices Will Rise Gradually

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has stated that the weakening of the rupiah against the US dollar will lead to a gradual increase in medicine prices. He explained that the impact is limited because imported raw materials constitute only a fraction of the total drug cost. The ministry is discussing with the pharmaceutical industry to ensure any price adjustments remain reasonable.

State Secretary Appreciates 42,000 Citizens Participating in 81st Independence Day Logo Selection

State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has welcomed the public's enthusiastic response to the logo selection for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, with over 42,000 citizens casting their votes since the poll opened on 24 June 2026. He stated that the high participation reflects a strong sense of ownership and the spirit of mutual cooperation, or gotong royong, in shaping the nation's visual identity. The government views the public vote as a democratic process that will produce a symbol born from the collective aspirations of the Indonesian people.

PGE's Electricity Production Grows 15.22 Percent, Reaching 1,370 GWh in Q1 2026

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) reported a 15.22 percent year-on-year increase in electricity production, reaching 1,370 GWh in the first quarter of 2026. The state-owned enterprise, which manages approximately 70 percent of Indonesia's installed geothermal capacity, also recently secured an ESG Leadership Award. The achievement underscores PGE's growing role in supporting the national electricity grid and advancing the country's energy transition.

Pramono Signs Utility Network Bylaw to Tackle Jakarta's Dangling Cable Chaos

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has signed a long-awaited bylaw on Integrated Utility Network Facilities (SJUT) to provide a legal basis for moving the capital's messy overhead cables underground. The regulation aims to address the problem of abandoned cables whose owners are unknown and to improve the city's aesthetics. The Jakarta administration will collaborate with private entities to accelerate the gradual relocation of the utility networks.

DPR: Proposed Tier III Excise Policy for Illegal Cigarettes Weakens Law Enforcement

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives has warned that a proposed new excise tariff layer for illegal cigarettes could undermine law enforcement. Agung Widyantoro of Commission III argues the focus must remain on prosecuting existing violations rather than creating policies that might be perceived as a compromise with criminal operators. He cautioned that such fiscal adjustments could create a moral hazard by reducing the deterrent effect on illegal producers and distributors.

East Jakarta Court Appoints Panel of Judges for Doctor Tifa's Case

The East Jakarta District Court has appointed a panel of judges to preside over the criminal case against Tifauzia Tyassuma, known as Doctor Tifa, who is accused of defamation and slander regarding the authenticity of former President Joko Widodo's diploma. The trial is scheduled to commence on 2 July 2026, with Christina Endarwati serving as the presiding judge. The court has also assigned two substitute clerks to support the administrative proceedings.

Bahlil Comes Clean on Why He Dislikes Imports

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has openly declared his aversion to fuel imports, citing the high potential for rent-seeking activities. He highlighted that Indonesia currently imports around 23 million kilolitres of fuel annually, predominantly from Singapore and Malaysia. To curb this dependency, Bahlil is championing increased domestic production through biofuel initiatives like an E20 ethanol blend, which he claims could save 4 million kilolitres of fuel per year.

28 Toll Road Access Points in Jakarta Included in Odd-Even Plate Area, Here is the Full List

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has clarified that no new regulations have been introduced regarding the odd-even licence plate policy, dismissing public speculation about an expansion. The existing rules, based on Gubernatorial Regulation No. 88 of 2019, already include 28 toll road on-ramps and off-ramps within the enforcement zones. The governor emphasised that the current application of the policy to these access points is not a new measure.

The Razman Arif Case: From Feud with Hotman Paris to Imprisonment at Cipinang

Lawyer Razman Arif Nasution has been transferred to Cipinang Prison to serve an 18-month sentence for defaming fellow lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea. The case originated from a 2022 dispute involving mutual accusations of defamation and allegations of misconduct. The execution marks the conclusion of a lengthy legal process that spanned investigations, trials, and appeals.

Gerindra Responds to Jokowi's Whirlwind Tour Across Indonesia

The Gerindra Party has responded to former President Joko Widodo's post-recovery political tour, calling it a normal activity for a statesman. Jokowi's first stop in Lampung is aimed at consolidating the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) and motivating its cadres. The tour is seen as an effort to build PSI into a major political force.

Social Affairs Ministry Distributes Rp544 Billion in Aid Across South Sulawesi

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has disbursed Rp544 billion in social assistance in South Sulawesi, covering food programmes, cash transfers, and disaster preparedness. The distribution was overseen by a House of Representatives commission to ensure the aid is effectively targeted and benefits the local population.

Jokowi Embarks on Regional Safari, Gerindra Wishes Him a Speedy Recovery

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo has commenced a series of regional visits starting in Lampung, drawing a response from the Gerindra Party. Party Deputy Chairman Prasetyo Hadi welcomed the activity, noting it signalled Jokowi's recovery from a recent minor illness. Jokowi maintains the tour, organised with volunteers and the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), is to fulfil public invitations and carries no political agenda.

After Viral MPR Quiz Controversy, Josepha and 9 SMAN 1 Pontianak Students Receive Scholarships to China

Ten students from SMAN 1 Pontianak, previously embroiled in a judging controversy at a national MPR quiz competition, have been offered international scholarships to study in China. The opportunity arose from a memorandum of understanding between the West Kalimantan Provincial Government, Yangzhou Polytechnic Institute, and PT Semen Conch Indonesia. The students, including Josepha Alexandra whose correct answer was initially dismissed, are currently considering the offer with their families.

Pertamina Chief Commissioner Urges Fuel Price Cuts as Global Oil Prices Fall

Pertamina's Chief Commissioner Mochamad Iriawan has urged the state energy company's board to prepare for a gradual reduction in non-subsidised fuel prices starting in early July 2026, following a recent decline in global crude oil prices. He noted that the adjustment must follow established procedures and will involve discussions with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The call comes after significant price hikes for Pertamax and Pertamax Green 95 earlier in June.

Gold Producer Hartadinata Abadi Wins Jewellery Retailer of the Year 2026

PT Hartadinata Abadi Tbk (HRTA) has secured the Jewellery Retailer of the Year 2026 award for the second time, reflecting its significant growth and strong retail performance. The company reported a 144.39 per cent year-on-year revenue surge to Rp44.5 trillion in 2025, with net profit soaring to Rp978.49 billion. HRTA is now focusing on optimising its existing retail network and expanding to 100 stores by the end of 2026.

The Sumatran Golden Cat and Its Rivalry in the Forest Wilderness

The elusive Sumatran Golden Cat, a medium-sized wild feline, plays a vital role in the rainforest ecosystem but faces significant survival challenges. As a mesopredator, it avoids direct competition with apex predators like the Sumatran Tiger by targeting smaller prey such as rodents and birds. This ecological niche partitioning allows the 'golden shadow' to coexist alongside larger hunters in one of the world's most biodiverse habitats.