Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

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Indonesia customs investigate Thai man over US$350K undeclared cash

Indonesian customs authorities at Soekarno-Hatta Airport are investigating a Thai national caught carrying US$350,000 in undeclared cash. The suspect faces a maximum administrative fine of 600 million rupiah, while the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) probes potential links to transnational crime or money laundering. The case highlights Indonesia's strict enforcement of cross-border cash declaration rules and its oversight of illicit financial flows.

Colleagues Testify to the Honesty and Simplicity of Senior Commissioner Yimmy Kurniawan

Senior Commissioner Yimmy Kurniawan, a top-three finalist for the 2026 Hoegeng Awards in the Integrity category, has been described by colleagues as an intelligent, honest, and humble officer. Fellow officers, including Novel Baswedan, attest to his consistent dedication, noting he commutes by motorbike and avoids any display of wealth despite his high rank. Yimmy himself defines integrity as a combination of commitment and consistency to the organisation and its ethical code.

Amid 60,000 SNBP No-Show Concerns, UNJ Claims 99% Registration Rate

Universitas Negeri Jakarta (UNJ) has reported a 99 per cent registration rate for its 2026 SNBP intake, starkly contrasting with widespread reports of tens of thousands of prospective students failing to re-register at other state universities. The university attributes this success to growing public trust in its academic quality, affordable tuition policies, and its recent transformation into a state university with legal entity status (PTNBH). UNJ's registration figures have improved significantly, with only 13 out of 1,910 accepted candidates not completing the process this year.

Pegadaian and Pupuk Kaltim Forge Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Growth

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian and fertiliser producer PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur have signed a three-year memorandum of understanding to boost financial literacy and employee welfare. The collaboration aims to integrate Pegadaian's investment and financing services into Pupuk Kaltim's workforce ecosystem. The initiative is part of a broader effort to support the government's national financial inclusion programme.

Second Victim of KMP Aceh Hebat 2 Engine Explosion Dies

A second trainee from the Malahayati Merchant Marine Polytechnic has died following an engine explosion on the KMP Aceh Hebat 2 ferry. The victim, Muhammad Bilal Ramzi, passed away after intensive care at a hospital in Banda Aceh. State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has extended its condolences and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the victims and investigating the incident.

Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Government Auctions 27 Official Vehicles to Streamline Assets and Boost Regional Revenue

The Southeast Sulawesi Provincial Government has auctioned 27 official vehicles deemed beyond their operational lifespan. The open auction, conducted with the Kendari State Assets and Auction Service Office, aims to improve asset management and generate non-tax state revenue. The process was carried out digitally to ensure transparency and competitive bidding.

Death Toll from KMP Aceh Hebat 2 Engine Explosion Rises to Two Cadets

A second cadet from the Malahayati Merchant Marine Polytechnic has died from injuries sustained in the engine room explosion aboard the KMP Aceh Hebat 2 ferry. Muhammad Bilal Ramzi passed away after intensive care, following the earlier death of fellow cadet Fahri Herdi Eko. The incident, which occurred on 12 June while the vessel was docked in Banda Aceh, injured 15 people and has prompted PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry to reaffirm its commitment to safety and victim support.

TransJ, MRT, LRT Jakarta, and KRL JIS Fare Set at Rp1 on 27-28 June

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is offering a Rp1 fare for several public transport services on 27-28 June 2026 to mark the closing of the city's 499th anniversary celebrations. The promotion applies to Transjakarta, MRT Jakarta, and LRT Jakarta, and is available to all users regardless of their domicile. A separate Rp1 fare for the KRL Commuter Line to Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) is also running from 22 to 28 June.

Singaporean Ship Attacked in Strait of Hormuz, UN Delays Evacuation of 11,000 Seafarers

An attack on a Singapore-flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz has prompted the International Maritime Organization to suspend the evacuation of approximately 600 vessels and 11,000 seafarers stranded in the Gulf region. The vessel, identified as the Ever Lovely, was struck by a projectile off the coast of Oman shortly after Iran ordered ships to obtain permission before transiting the strait. The UN agency stated that the operation would resume once navigational safety in the area is verified.

Layoff Mitigation Task Force Begins Mapping Problems After DPR Meeting

The newly formed Layoff Mitigation Task Force has started mapping industrial issues to prevent a wave of redundancies following a coordination meeting with the House of Representatives. The task force will work with the police to monitor companies at risk and address cases where laid-off workers have not received their entitlements. Officials noted that the causes of layoffs are diverse, ranging from falling demand to internal management conflicts and banking problems affecting otherwise healthy firms.

Jokowi Welcomed by Hundreds of Volunteers at Lampung's Radin Inten Airport

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo commenced a political tour in Lampung, his first stop on a nationwide itinerary. He was greeted enthusiastically by hundreds of supporters at Radin Inten II Airport. The three-day visit includes engagements with community leaders and attendance at cultural events across five regencies and cities.

Realising a Just Narcotics Policy

As Indonesia marks International Anti-Narcotics Day, the focus turns to the need for a more proportionate and just narcotics policy. With millions of users and hundreds of thousands of students exposed, experts argue that the legal system must better distinguish between victims of drug abuse who need rehabilitation and the traffickers who profit from the trade. Current enforcement practices often blur this distinction, leading to calls for legislative reform to ensure users receive treatment while dealers face harsher penalties.

Public Trust in Police Rises to 82.4 Percent, Habiburokhman: Proof of Hard Work Serving the Community

House Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman welcomed a Kompas survey showing public trust in the Indonesian National Police (Polri) has risen to 82.4 percent. He stated the figure reflects tangible improvements in police performance and a more humanist, responsive approach under Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo's leadership. Habiburokhman urged the force not to become complacent and to use the result as motivation for further reform.

Pramono Affirms Crackdown on Illegal Parking Will Continue, Including Luxury Cars

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has confirmed that the crackdown on illegal parking will persist across the capital, with no exceptions for luxury vehicles. The statement follows enforcement actions in the Senopati area that drew complaints from owners of high-end cars. Pramono stressed that the policy is a routine measure, not a temporary programme, and that all violating vehicles will be treated equally regardless of type or value.

Southeast Sulawesi Cooperative Service Holds Low-Cost Food Bazaar, 5kg Rice Sold for Rp55,000

The Southeast Sulawesi Cooperative and UMKM Service organised a two-day low-cost food bazaar in Kendari to mark National Entrepreneurship and UMKM Day 2026. The event offered staple goods such as 5kg rice packages for Rp55,000, aiming to ease the burden on residents while providing a marketplace for local micro, small, and medium enterprises. The initiative involved collaboration with the Food Security Agency, Bulog, and private partners to stabilise food prices and stimulate the local economy.

Three SPPI Kopdes Merah Putih Participants Die, Palace Urges Evaluation of Military Basic Training

The Indonesian Presidential Palace has called for an evaluation of the military basic training programme following the deaths of three participants in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangun Indonesia (SPPI) scheme. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated the review is necessary to determine if procedural negligence contributed to the fatalities. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the deaths were caused by heat stroke, cardiac arrest, and other medical conditions, while asserting all participants had passed health checks prior to the training.

Ombudsman proposes collaborative framework in Human Rights Bill

The Indonesian Ombudsman has submitted input on 14 articles of the Human Rights Bill, advocating for a legal basis to institutionalise collaboration between human rights implementers, national human rights institutions, and public service oversight bodies. The Ombudsman argues that public service delivery is a critical arena for the fulfilment of human rights, with many violations stemming from administrative failures. The government and the House of Representatives are targeting the bill's passage by 2026.

Man Clings to Box Truck in East Jakarta After Traffic Collision, Wife Gives Chase

A road rage incident in Cibubur, East Jakarta, escalated dramatically when a man clung to a moving box truck following a minor collision. His wife pursued the truck onto a toll road, pleading for help, while the victim was later found with a severe head injury allegedly inflicted with a hammer.

Dozens of Vehicles Torched in Land Conflict in Tebingtinggi, North Sumatra

A land dispute between residents and PT Bridgestone in Serdangbedagai Regency, North Sumatra, escalated into violence, resulting in the destruction of dozens of vehicles. The conflict erupted after the company proceeded with land clearing despite police warnings and opposition from a group claiming royal descent. One employee was injured, and police are now working to stabilise the situation.

House of Representatives: Global OTT Must Contribute More Fairly to Indonesia

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for stricter regulations on global Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms, arguing their contributions are not proportional to the economic value they extract from the Indonesian market. Lawmaker Kawendra Lukistian highlighted that the nation's digital economy is valued at around Rp1,350 trillion, yet digital tax receipts remain relatively small. He urged the government to study progressive policies from South Korea and Europe to ensure foreign platforms contribute fairly to national development.

BRI Posts Net Profit of Rp20.42 Trillion as of May 2026

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) reported a standalone net profit of Rp20.42 trillion for the first five months of 2026, marking a 9.52% year-on-year increase. The state-owned lender's performance was bolstered by a significant reduction in interest expenses and double-digit growth in lending. Total assets surpassed Rp2,000 trillion, reflecting the bank's expanding intermediation role.

Leptospirosis Cases Surge in Pati, Health Office Urges Vigilance

The Pati District Health Office has called for heightened public awareness following a sharp increase in leptospirosis cases. Residents are urged to maintain environmental cleanliness and avoid direct contact with potentially contaminated water or soil. The bacterial infection, often spread through rat urine, poses a significant risk during wet conditions.

Oman: No plans to impose transit fees on Strait of Hormuz

Oman has confirmed that future arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz will not include transit fees, reaffirming its commitment to free and safe navigation through the strategic waterway. The statement was made during a joint ministerial meeting between Gulf Cooperation Council states and the United States. Oman's Foreign Minister also expressed support for the US-Iran memorandum of understanding aimed at securing maritime traffic.

Ministry of Population and Family Development introduces safe daycare to support factory workers' children

The Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga) has launched the Taman Asuh Sayang Anak (Tamasya) daycare programme in Bantul, Yogyakarta, to assist factory workers. The initiative mandates certified caregivers and CCTV monitoring to ensure child safety while enabling parents, particularly women, to remain productive at work. The programme, which includes health checks and growth monitoring, is part of a national network of 3,366 supported daycare centres.

ICC judges file lawsuit against US sanctions

Three International Criminal Court judges have launched a legal challenge in a US federal court against sanctions imposed by Washington. The judges argue the financial and visa restrictions, linked to ICC investigations involving Israel, are unlawful and an attack on judicial independence. The case highlights ongoing tensions over the court's jurisdiction and its arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Indonesia taps eastern LNG to shield Java industry from cost hikes

The Indonesian government is redirecting liquefied natural gas from eastern regions to avert an industrial crisis in Java, where dwindling local supplies have inflated costs for manufacturers. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed the strategy will not disrupt existing export commitments, as labour unions warn that sustained high gas prices could trigger over 50,000 layoffs. Parliamentary leaders are set to meet with Pertamina to negotiate price relief and safeguard manufacturing jobs.

Officials report Soekarno-Hatta major drug trafficking route

Indonesian customs and police officials have identified Soekarno-Hatta International Airport as the nation's primary entry point for narcotics smuggling, accounting for 249 of 800 cases uncovered nationwide. Authorities reported total drug seizures of 4.2 tonnes, with cannabis and methamphetamine being the most prevalent substances, and have designated the airport a red zone for intensified enforcement. Officials warned that the intercepted volume could have endangered millions of Indonesians and stressed the need for continued inter-agency cooperation to combat the growing threat.

From Final Project to New Identity: Gamelan Pesel's Journey in Balinese Karawitan

Gamelan Pesel, a musical ensemble created by I Wayan Arik Wirawan as a university final project, has evolved over thirteen years into a recognised innovation in Balinese karawitan. The ensemble, which blends elements of the traditional Selonding and Semar Pegulingan gamelan, has grown from a simple prototype into a solid community of artists. Its enduring presence, sustained by the same core members since 2016, demonstrates how academic work can transcend the campus to become a living part of cultural and customary life.

Jakarta Government Allocates Rp100 Billion for Special LPDP Scholarship Programme

The Jakarta provincial government has earmarked Rp100 billion in its regional budget for a dedicated overseas scholarship programme modelled on the national LPDP scheme. The funding is expected to support 50 to 75 students to study at foreign universities, with the Jakarta administration determining the eligible institutions and courses. The city will collaborate with the central LPDP agency to expedite the programme's launch, aiming for realisation next year.

Police uncover home-based drug vape factory in Bali run by international syndicate

Indonesian police have dismantled an international narcotics network operating a liquid cannabis vape factory from a villa in Bali, arresting three foreign nationals including a US citizen. The syndicate, which had been running since April 2023, is estimated to have generated up to Rp360 billion in revenue by producing 2,000 vape bottles monthly and selling them for Rp5 million each. Authorities are now hunting a main supplier as the suspects face up to 20 years in prison under Indonesia's strict narcotics laws.

HP Elevate 2026: HP Indonesia Launches AI PC Ecosystem and Modern Work Solutions

HP Indonesia has unveiled its latest integrated ecosystem of AI-powered PCs, intelligent printing, and cybersecurity solutions at the HP Elevate 2026 event. The launch responds to a 47% surge in AI adoption among Indonesian businesses, which has reportedly boosted revenues for 59% of organisations. The company also reinforced its commitment to local digital talent development through partnerships with educational foundations in West Nusa Tenggara.

Indonesian military says 10 Papua insurgents rejoin Republic

Ten former members of a Papuan separatist group have formally surrendered to the Indonesian military, citing disillusionment with the organisation's violence against civilians. The defectors pointed to intimidation, property seizures, and killings of those refusing to support the movement, as well as the military's humanitarian and community development programmes. Military officials hope this will encourage further surrenders and support President Prabowo Subianto's accelerated development agenda for the region.

Lo Kheng Hong to Reap Rp20 Billion Dividend from Salim Group's Palm Oil Company SIMP

Veteran investor Lo Kheng Hong is set to receive a dividend payout of Rp20.71 billion from PT Salim Ivomas Pratama Tbk. (SIMP). The palm oil company, part of the Salim Group, has approved a cash dividend of Rp26 per share for the 2025 financial year. Lo holds a 5.14% stake in SIMP, according to the latest shareholder data.

Another Customs Official to Stand Trial in Importation Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred a fourth customs official, Budiman Bayu Prasojo, to prosecutors for trial in an importation bribery case. He joins three senior Directorate General of Customs and Excise officials whose first hearing is scheduled for 3 July 2026. The case underscores ongoing efforts to uphold integrity in public service and safeguard state revenue.

National Police Chief Rotates 190 District Police Chiefs Across Indonesia

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has rotated 190 district police chiefs (Kapolres) across Indonesia as part of a major institutional reshuffle. The transfers, formalised in seven telegram letters issued on 25 June 2026, are described as routine career development and performance enhancement measures. The rotation includes key posts in Greater Jakarta, West Java, Central Java, and other regions, following a larger reshuffle of 1,121 senior and mid-ranking officers.

Jokowi Begins Three-Day Blusukan in Lampung with Friday Prayers

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo commenced a three-day visit to Lampung province by attending Friday prayers, ahead of a packed schedule of political consolidation and public engagements. Wearing attire bearing the logo of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), he aims to motivate party cadres and strengthen its structure for the 2029 general election. His itinerary includes cultural events, community meetings, and visits to Islamic boarding schools across several regencies.

Rupiah Predicted to Breach Rp 18,000 Level Again This Weekend

The Indonesian rupiah is forecast to weaken past the Rp 18,000 per US dollar mark by the end of the week, driven by strong US economic data and hawkish Federal Reserve speculation. Stronger-than-expected US GDP, lower jobless claims, and rising core PCE inflation have bolstered the dollar index, putting pressure on emerging market currencies. Domestic factors, including upcoming Indonesian economic data releases, are also contributing to the rupiah's depreciation.

Komnas Perempuan Highlights 'Delayed Justice' in Preventing Torture of Victims

The National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has identified 'delayed justice' as a critical factor that can prolong suffering and lead to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment of female victims. The commission stressed the need for expedited case handling and the fulfilment of victims' rights, noting that violence against women is often normalised by social norms and traditions. Komnas Perempuan has made the issue of violence potentially amounting to torture a strategic agenda for the 2025-2030 period.

Riva Siahaan's Sentence in Oil Corruption Case Reduced to 7 Years

The Jakarta High Court has reduced the prison sentence of former Pertamina Patra Niaga president director Riva Siahaan from nine to seven years for his role in a crude oil governance corruption case. The appellate court also imposed a Rp 500 million fine and ordered him to pay Rp 5 billion in restitution, a penalty not included in the original verdict. The ruling marks a significant revision of the initial sentence handed down by the Jakarta Corruption Court.

Cartenz Task Force Arrests Armed Criminal Group Member for Police Shooting in Intan Jaya

The Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force has apprehended an armed criminal group member in Papua's Intan Jaya Regency. The suspect, identified by the initials PP, is believed to have been involved in a 2024 shooting at a police post that resulted in the death of an officer. The arrest took place in Sugapa District as part of ongoing security operations in the region.

Asrul Azis Files Pretrial Motion to Annul Hajj Corruption Suspect Status

Asrul Azis Taba, chairman of the Kesthuri travel association, has filed a pretrial motion at the South Jakarta District Court seeking to have his suspect status in the hajj quota corruption case revoked. His legal team argues that the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) failed to properly issue a notice of investigation commencement, rendering the suspect designation legally invalid. The case involves allegations of illicit payments to officials at the Ministry of Religious Affairs in exchange for additional special hajj quotas.

Lazada Reportedly Conducts Mass Layoffs in Southeast Asia, Including Indonesia

E-commerce platform Lazada has reportedly cut approximately 5% of its workforce across Southeast Asia as part of an efficiency drive. The layoffs, which affect all six of its operating markets including Indonesia, are intended to sharpen the company's business focus. This follows a previous round of significant job cuts in the region last year.

PT Suri Nusantara Jaya Becomes Bonded Logistics Centre Operator, Strengthening National Food Industry

PT Suri Nusantara Jaya (SNJ Group) has been granted a Bonded Logistics Centre (PLB) licence by the Jakarta Customs Office. The facility is expected to enhance the company's supply chain efficiency and bolster the competitiveness of Indonesia's food industry. The move aligns with efforts to strengthen the national logistics ecosystem and support sustainable economic growth.

Doctors Focus on Psychological and Nutritional Recovery of Taufik Hidayat's Victim Before Surgery

The victim of alleged abuse and false imprisonment by Taufik Hidayat is showing positive progress at Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Bandung, regaining the ability to communicate, eat, and sit up. Medical staff are prioritising psychological recovery and nutritional improvement to stabilise the patient's general condition before proceeding with reconstructive surgery. The case, which involved years of alleged confinement and violence, has drawn national attention and is being handled by the West Java Regional Police.

PGE records 1,370 GWh electricity production growth in Q1 2026

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy (PGE) reported a 15.22 percent year-on-year increase in electricity production to 1,370 GWh in the first quarter of 2026. The state-owned enterprise, which manages around 70 percent of Indonesia's installed geothermal capacity, also received the ESG Leadership Award 2026 for the infrastructure sector. The company emphasised its commitment to integrating sustainability principles into its business strategy and operations.

Local Musicians Dominate 80 Percent of Spotify Charts

Indonesian musicians accounted for 80 percent of the songs on Spotify's Daily Top 50 Indonesia chart last year, according to a new report. The Creative Economy Minister highlighted this as a sign of local talent reaching global audiences, with over 60 percent of royalties now coming from overseas listeners. The growth underscores the increasing international reach and economic potential of the domestic music industry.

Riau Police Distribute 5,113 Social Aid Packages and Clean Water Ahead of 80th Bhayangkara Day

The Riau Regional Police have distributed over 5,000 social aid packages and conducted dozens of clean water deliveries as part of community service activities leading up to the 80th Bhayangkara Day. The initiative also includes renovating 11 houses and carrying out religious and environmental programmes to strengthen ties with the community. Police officials emphasised that the force must be present as a solution provider and a friend to the public, not just a law enforcement agency.

KPK Urges Kramat Jati Police Hospital Doctors to Accelerate Yaqut's Recovery

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has called on medical staff at the Kramat Jati Police Hospital to expedite the treatment of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. Yaqut's detention was suspended due to a digestive tract illness, temporarily halting the legal process in the hajj quota corruption case. The KPK emphasised the need for a swift recovery to ensure legal certainty and an effective continuation of the investigation.

60,000 SNBP Dropouts Claim Denied by Higher Education Ministry

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology has refuted claims that 60,000 successful SNBP applicants failed to re-register, calling the data inaccurate. Officials clarified the figure represents an accumulation across all admission pathways from the previous year, while the actual re-registration rate for the achievement-based SNBP route stands at 92 per cent. IPB University reported a 99.03 per cent re-registration rate, underscoring strong commitment among admitted students.

Survey: Positive Image of Indonesian National Police Rises to 71.5 Percent

A Litbang Kompas survey reveals a significant improvement in public perception of the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in April 2026. The institution's positive image climbed to 71.5 percent, with public trust and satisfaction with services also recording notable increases compared to the previous year. Respondents particularly noted improvements in officer professionalism and the comfort of police station facilities.