Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

Showing 1,251-1,300 of 1,505 articles

Razman Arif Nasution Finally Serves Sentence, Prosecutors Execute Transfer to Cipinang Prison

Prominent lawyer Razman Arif Nasution has been officially transferred to Cipinang Prison in East Jakarta to begin serving his sentence for defaming fellow attorney Hotman Paris Hutapea. The North Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office executed the transfer following a final and binding court ruling. The case concludes a high-profile legal feud between the two well-known advocates.

BGN Chief Meets Purbaya to Discuss Budget Efficiency and MBG Oversight

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) met with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to discuss strategic improvements to the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The talks focused on budget efficiency, tackling inefficiencies, and strengthening oversight mechanisms. The government aims to ensure the programme is better targeted and delivers optimal, sustainable benefits for Indonesian children.

Police Rotation: Aceh and Southwest Papua Police Chiefs Replaced

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has implemented a rotation affecting several high-ranking officers. The changes include the appointment of new police chiefs for Aceh and Southwest Papua, replacing officials entering retirement. The reshuffle also involves new deputy chiefs for Banten and Maluku, as detailed in a police telegram.

One House, One Waste Shredder: Society as Active Citizens

Indonesia faces a severe waste crisis, with household organic waste dominating the millions of tonnes generated annually. A transformative policy proposal suggests equipping every home with a waste shredder to process rubbish at the source, drastically reducing landfill dependency. The initiative aims to turn citizens into active solution providers while creating economic value through local recycling supply chains.

Indonesia Seeks to Reduce Dollar Dependence, Finance Ministry Explains Rationale

The Indonesian government is actively diversifying its financing sources away from the US dollar to mitigate exchange rate risks to the state budget. The Ministry of Finance plans to issue Panda Bonds in Chinese yuan as part of this strategy, citing the dollar's anomalous strength and the need for greater stability. Officials acknowledge that completely eliminating dollar dependence is a long-term goal, given its status as a global hard currency.

Indonesia to Halt Diesel Imports This Year Following B50 Mandate

Indonesia is set to cease diesel imports this year as the government prepares to implement a mandatory 50 percent biodiesel blend (B50). The move is part of broader energy self-sufficiency efforts, which also coincide with record domestic production of rice and corn, according to President Prabowo Subianto.

Police Clarify Odd-Even Plate Policy at Jakarta Toll Gates

Jakarta traffic police have clarified that the odd-even number plate policy affecting 28 toll gates is not a new regulation, but rather an existing rule applied where toll exits intersect with major city roads. The enforcement follows Governor Regulation No. 88 of 2019 and applies only to the connecting roads, not the toll roads themselves. Authorities have advised the public to verify the specific list of affected gates with the Jakarta Transportation Agency.

Profile: Ginka Febriyanti Ginting, a Young Leader Active in Numerous Youth Organisations

Ginka Febriyanti Ginting is a young leader who served as the national coordinator for the volunteer group Bison, which supported Prabowo Subianto and Gibran Rakabuming Raka during the 2024 presidential election. She has a background in accounting and management and is involved in various youth and community organisations. Her political engagement includes leading campaign efforts and commenting on regional elections, such as the Serang Regency revote.

Profile of Ginka Febriyanti Ginting: Pertamina Retail Commissioner, Prabowo Volunteer, and Alleged Paid Protest Link

The appointment of 27-year-old Ginka Febriyanti Ginting as Commissioner of PT Pertamina Retail has drawn public scrutiny due to her political background. She previously served as a coordinator for Bison, a youth volunteer group supporting Prabowo Subianto's 2024 presidential campaign. A fact-finding commission has also linked her organisation to allegations of mobilising paid protesters during the August 2025 riots.

When Pancasila Stops at the Public Service Counter

Despite annual commemorations, the true measure of Pancasila lies in the everyday experience of public service. This article argues that slow, complicated, and unfair administrative processes undermine the constitutional promise of social justice. It calls for a reform agenda that prioritises simplified procedures, digital integration, and a performance evaluation system focused on citizen satisfaction to truly embody the state ideology.

China Asserts Legality of Patrols off Taiwan's Coast

Beijing has defended its coastguard patrols off the eastern coast of Taiwan as lawful exercises of jurisdiction, dismissing criticism from the United States and European nations. The Chinese foreign ministry stated the operations are a response to alleged manipulation by Japan and the Philippines and are aimed at maintaining maritime order. The patrols have heightened regional tensions, particularly given the strategic importance of the waters for international shipping.

Asian Currencies Tumble: Rupiah and Won Slump, Only Peso and Ringgit Stand Firm

Most Asian currencies weakened against a resurgent US dollar on Friday, with the Indonesian rupiah falling 0.36% to near the psychological level of Rp 18,000 per dollar. The pressure comes as the dollar index remains elevated, driven by expectations of tighter US monetary policy and persistent inflation concerns. Only the Malaysian ringgit and Philippine peso managed to post gains amid the broad regional decline.

BRILink Agents Become a Lifeline for Villagers Checking PKH Aid

BRILink agents in rural Indonesia are playing a crucial role in helping citizens access government social assistance, bridging the gap for those unfamiliar with digital banking. Residents like Yuni in Tangerang rely on these local agents to check and disburse their Program Keluarga Harapan (PKH) funds, avoiding the need to travel to distant ATMs. The service has become a vital community resource, significantly boosting local business while providing essential financial inclusion.

Challenges of Law Enforcement in Indonesia in the Digital Era

The rapid advancement of digital technology in Indonesia has introduced significant challenges for the legal system, including a rise in cybercrime, the proliferation of hoaxes, and persistent issues with personal data protection. These developments demand that law enforcement apparatus enhance their digital forensics and cybersecurity capabilities. A collaborative effort involving adaptive regulations, competent officers, and improved public digital literacy is deemed essential to ensure security and justice in the digital space.

Indonesia ready to lead forest-based climate solutions, says minister

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has declared Indonesia's readiness to become a global leader in forest-based climate solutions. The commitment involves strengthening forest governance, developing high-integrity carbon markets, and innovative conservation financing. Key achievements include a significant reduction in forest fires and the expansion of social forestry programmes.

Angel Investor Venjii Hernando Drives Hundreds of Partnership Businesses in Indonesia

Indonesian entrepreneur and angel investor Venjii Hernando is expanding his efforts to develop the business partnership ecosystem, having built a network of over 100 brands across various sectors. He is now preparing to establish a venture capital firm specifically focused on financing partnership-based businesses. Hernando's contributions have been recognised with his appointment to the advisory board of the Indonesian Partnership and Licensing Entrepreneurs Association (APKELINDO) in 2025.

Otto Hasibuan Calls on Law Enforcement to Follow Procedure and Respect Human Rights

Deputy Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Otto Hasibuan has urged law enforcement officials to adhere strictly to due process of law, ensuring all actions are fair and respect human rights. He stressed that enforcement must not be arbitrary and should align with the corrective, restorative, and rehabilitative justice principles of the new National Criminal Code. Hasibuan also highlighted the necessity of public education on the new code, asserting that ignorance of the law is no defence.

Bank BSN Offers Rp522.08 Billion Asset Sales Portfolio to Accelerate Asset Recovery

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) is marketing a portfolio of property assets valued at Rp522.08 billion to strategic investors to expedite economic recovery and bolster liquidity. The offering, comprising 648 assets across Indonesia, was presented at an investor gathering in Jakarta. The move comes as the bank reports strong post-spin-off fundamentals, including a 23% annual increase in total assets to Rp78.2 trillion.

Oil Prices Fall Again, Down Nearly 7% This Week

Global oil prices continued their decline on Friday, with Brent crude falling over 1% as confidence grew that supply disruptions in the Middle East would be less severe than initially feared. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to tanker traffic has eroded the geopolitical risk premium, though security incidents near Oman continue to pose a threat. Over the week, both Brent and WTI benchmarks have shed roughly 7%, erasing most of the gains driven by earlier regional tensions.

Small Nuclear Reactors as an Energy Solution for Indonesia's Remote Regions

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are being proposed as a viable solution to electrify Indonesia's remote islands, offering a cheaper and cleaner alternative to diesel generators. The technology boasts enhanced passive safety features and can operate for years without refuelling, addressing logistical challenges in isolated areas. While Indonesia has foundational experience with research reactors, the main hurdle remains public acceptance and a thorough safety assessment given the country's location on the seismically active Ring of Fire.

A total of 7,500 MBG kitchens secure halal certification: BPJPH

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) has confirmed that 7,500 kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme have obtained halal certification, with efforts ongoing to certify all Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPGs). The agency is working closely with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to guide operators through the regulatory process and dispel myths about high costs or complexity. The certification drive is a mandatory requirement under national law, supporting President Prabowo Subianto's flagship initiative which has already served approximately 65 million beneficiaries since its launch.

Police Arrest President Director of PT MMS Over Palm Oil Export Case

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has detained the president director of PT Mitra Mentari Sentosa (MMS), Whu Zeng Xie, as a suspect in an alleged palm oil derivative export data manipulation case. Investigators suspect the company engaged in under-invoicing, reporting lower export values than the actual figures, which may have caused state losses. The probe is examining 95 export shipments to China between 2024 and 2026, with authorities continuing to analyse documents and trace transactions.

Guerrilla Strategy Targets Putin's Market, Industry Minister Employs This Approach

Indonesia is leveraging its role as Official Partner Country at Innoprom 2026 in Russia to expand export markets and attract investment into the Eurasian region. The government views the recently signed Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union as a key opportunity to access a market of nearly 190 million people with high purchasing power. The strategy focuses on promoting high-value-added products and ensuring that increased trade is accompanied by improved national industrial competitiveness.

Unexpected Request from YTR After Being Held Captive by Taufik Hidayat: Hotman Paris, Raffi Ahmad, and '9 Naga' Members Step In

High-profile lawyer Hotman Paris has rallied tycoons and celebrities to raise nearly Rp2 billion for YTR, a 29-year-old woman left permanently blind and paralysed after three years of captivity and torture by her boyfriend. The fundraising effort was sparked by the victim's simple request for a bowl of chicken noodles upon her rescue. The case has drawn widespread attention to domestic violence and the plight of survivors in Indonesia.

Asia-Pacific Firms' AI Ambitions Hindered by Lack of Real-Time Warehouse Data

Many companies in the Asia-Pacific region are eager to invest in artificial intelligence but are being held back by a fundamental lack of real-time operational data from their warehouses and logistics hubs. Research indicates that while executive commitment to AI is high, manual data recording and delayed system updates create a significant gap between ambition and readiness. Experts argue that successful digital transformation requires not just new technology, but also the right human mindset and processes to ensure accurate, immediate data capture.

Directorate General of Taxes Appoints Seven New Digital Tax Collectors, Including Strava

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has designated seven new entities, including fitness app Strava and AI platform Kling AI, as VAT collectors for digital trade. The move reflects the expanding scope of digital services subject to taxation, from fitness and education to artificial intelligence. Total VAT collected from the digital sector has reached Rp40.55 trillion as of May 2026.

Amid 5.75% BI Rate, IPO Companies Prioritise Debt Repayment

A wave of initial public offerings scheduled for July 2026 on the Indonesia Stock Exchange reveals a strategic shift, with most companies prioritising the repayment of bank loans over aggressive expansion. The trend emerges as Bank Indonesia has aggressively raised its benchmark interest rate to 5.75% to manage funding costs. This move signals that firms are leveraging the capital market primarily to strengthen their balance sheets and reduce leverage ratios in a high-interest-rate environment.

Targeting Growth: MTMA and East Kutai Government Prepare Kutim Growth Forum 2026

The East Kutai Regency Government is collaborating with MTMA and the Media Collaboration Space to organise the Kutim Growth Forum 2026, a national-scale economic forum. The initiative aims to accelerate regional economic transformation by focusing on agriculture, tourism, the creative economy, and MSME empowerment. The forum is designed to bring together government officials, business actors, academics, and the community.

US Deploys Warships to Venezuela, Pledges Rp 2.6 Trillion in Earthquake Aid

The United States is deploying two warships, transport aircraft, and helicopters to assist Venezuela following twin devastating earthquakes. Washington has also pledged US$150 million in aid as relations between the two nations show signs of improvement. The deployment aims to support search and rescue operations and deliver critical humanitarian assistance.

US to Deploy Military in Caribbean, Assist Venezuela Earthquake Victims

The United States will deploy military assets to support humanitarian operations in Venezuela following devastating earthquakes. The Pentagon is leveraging regional resources to expedite disaster relief, while Russia has also offered condolences and is exploring aid options.

Zulhas Vows to Address Free Nutritious Meal Programme Complaints, to Coordinate with New BGN Head

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has pledged to resolve operational and regulatory grievances raised by partners of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Complaints include a moratorium on kitchen operations during school holidays and unilateral partnership terminations, which have caused financial losses. Zulhas will convene a limited coordination meeting with the new National Nutrition Agency (BGN) head to address the issues.

Observer: Accepting Student Aspirations Proves Government Is Not Anti-Criticism

An observer argues that the Prabowo administration's willingness to engage in dialogue with protesting students demonstrates its democratic and non-anti-criticism stance. The government's responsiveness to economic input and its evaluation of the free meal programme are cited as further evidence of this openness. The observer suggests that with the government's commitment to improvement, the scale of student demonstrations should naturally de-escalate.

Presidential Office Urges Severe Punishment for Perpetrator of Three-Year Confinement and Torture in Bandung

The Presidential Staff Office has conveyed President Prabowo Subianto's deep concern over a case involving the three-year confinement and severe abuse of a 29-year-old woman in Bandung. The President has urged that the perpetrator face the maximum legal penalty and that the case serves as a lesson to prevent future occurrences. The victim was found with critical injuries, including blindness and an inability to walk, after being held captive by a man identified as Taufik Hidayat.

Indonesia's Non-Dollar Transactions with Six Countries Reach Rp575.72 Trillion

Bank Indonesia reports that transactions under its local currency settlement (LCS) scheme have surged to US$32.89 billion (Rp575.72 trillion) in the first five months of 2026, surpassing full-year totals for 2024 and 2025. The scheme, which bypasses the US dollar, has attracted interest from India, which is now in discussions to join the existing six partner nations. China remains the dominant partner, accounting for the vast majority of the total transaction value.

KPK Conducts Marathon Examinations in Bali, Investigating Extortion Case at Directorate General of Immigration

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has intensified its investigation into alleged extortion within the Directorate General of Immigration, examining 12 witnesses in Bali over two days. The probe focuses on suspected illegal payments demanded from visa service agencies by immigration officials at Ngurah Rai and Denpasar offices, with the total value of the alleged extortion estimated at a minimum of Rp 145 billion. The KPK has clarified that the visa agencies are considered victims in this case, as they were allegedly forced to pay unofficial fees to have immigration documents processed.

Traces of Law Enforcement in the Narcotics Business Cycle

Over the past decade, numerous Indonesian law enforcement officers from the police, military, and even the National Narcotics Agency have been implicated in drug trafficking and abuse. Their involvement has ranged from stealing and selling seized evidence to acting as couriers and protectors for international drug syndicates. These cases highlight a persistent internal challenge undermining the country's fight against narcotics.

Video: Cooperatives Minister Reveals Update on 30,000 Kopdes Merah Putih Construction

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has provided an update on the development of the Kopdes Merah Putih village cooperative programme, noting that 12,700 physical units have been completed. The government aims to finish 30,000 units by August 2026 and 40,000 by year-end, with the cooperatives designed to distribute subsidised goods, absorb local produce, and channel social assistance. The initiative involves 18 ministries and faces challenges related to land and location.

Offshore Wind Energy and Indonesia's New Maritime Economic Path

Indonesia's vast offshore wind potential, mapped at 277 GW by the World Bank, represents a strategic opportunity to build a new green maritime industrialisation, not just add renewable energy capacity. While the current national electricity plan targets 7.2 GW of onshore wind, offshore wind requires its own dedicated roadmap due to its complexity and potential to create an entire industrial ecosystem. Leveraging decades of offshore oil and gas expertise, Indonesia can transform this potential into a new economic engine through local fabrication, engineering, and services, mirroring the downstreaming strategy applied to nickel.

IMO Suspends Evacuation of Vessels from Persian Gulf Following Attack

The International Maritime Organization has temporarily halted the evacuation of ships from the Persian Gulf after a cargo vessel was struck by a projectile near the Strait of Hormuz. The incident occurred despite a recently signed memorandum between Iran and the United States aimed at ending military hostilities and restoring safe passage. The suspension affects over 11,000 seafarers awaiting transit, pending further clarity on the security situation.

PGRI Provincial Administrators Declare No Dualism in Leadership

Administrators of the Indonesian Teachers Association (PGRI) from across 36 provinces have declared their full support for the central board led by Unifah Rosyidi, asserting it is the sole legitimate leadership. They cited a Supreme Court review decision and ministerial decrees to dismiss claims of a rival leadership, stating that any other forum or decision lacks legal standing. The unified body called on all members to remain focused on improving education quality in Indonesia.

Serang Prosecutor's Office Halts Meth Case via Restorative Justice, Defendant Rehabilitated at Islamic Boarding School

The Serang District Prosecutor's Office has terminated the prosecution of a methamphetamine user under restorative justice principles. The defendant, Supriyatna, was released from detention and ordered to undergo medical and spiritual rehabilitation. The decision was based on an integrated assessment classifying him as a situational user with a small quantity of drugs and no links to trafficking networks.

Social Affairs Minister: Military Cadet Involvement in 'People's Schools' Follows Presidential Directive

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has stated that the deployment of 1,000 military academy cadets to assist with orientation at 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) is a direct instruction from President Prabowo Subianto. The cadets will provide basic discipline and life-skills training, such as bed-making and uniform care, during a one-week orientation period starting 1 August 2026. The minister emphasised that the programme, involving around 166 new schools, aims to build strong character and discipline among students from underprivileged backgrounds.

KPK Seizes Documents from Cory Erin's Home in Muara Enim Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Jakarta home of Cory Erin Hardi, a marketing employee at PT Millenium Solusi Abadi, seizing documents related to an alleged bribery case in Muara Enim Regency. The seized materials are linked to procurement fraud and will be analysed by investigators. The case has already ensnared the Muara Enim Regent and several other officials, including auditors from the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK).

Rupiah Sentiment Triggered by Falling Brent Crude Oil Prices

The Indonesian rupiah weakened on Friday morning, influenced by a drop in global Brent crude oil prices below US$73 per barrel. The decline in oil prices has eased concerns over Indonesia's twin deficit and contributed to a fall in government bond yields. Analysts expect the rupiah to trade within a range of Rp17,900 to Rp18,025 against the US dollar during the day.

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Wins Gold Award for Second Consecutive Year, Strengthening Transparency and Sustainability Commitment

Indonesia's social security agency for workers, BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, has secured the Gold Award at the Australasian Reporting Awards (ARA) 2026 for the second year running. The award recognises the quality of its 2024 Annual Integrated Report, which meets international standards for transparency, accountability, and sustainability. The achievement underscores the institution's commitment to credible governance and its ability to compete with leading organisations across the Asia-Pacific region.

Rutte Reaffirms European Support for US Operations Against Iran

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has confirmed that thousands of US military flights supporting operations against Iran have originated from European bases. The remarks, which Iran's Foreign Ministry labelled a 'clear and incriminating admission' of NATO's active involvement, come amid reports of initial allied hesitation. The development coincides with former President Trump's renewed threats to withdraw from the alliance over perceived European reluctance to join the conflict.

Responding to captivity case, Health Ministry outlines dangers and signs of grooming

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has issued a public warning about the systematic manipulation tactic known as grooming, following a case in Bandung where a woman was held captive for three years. The ministry stressed that grooming affects both children and adults, evolving from emotional control to financial exploitation and physical confinement. Officials urged families to foster open communication and called for collective vigilance to break the cycle of abuse.

8% Economic Growth Target Is Not a Forecast, Finance Ministry Explains

Indonesia's Ministry of Finance has clarified that the 8% economic growth target set for 2029 is an aspirational goal, not a mere projection. Officials stressed that achieving this ambitious figure requires massive, integrated policy efforts across government and financial institutions. The ministry also invoked the concept of a 'self-fulfilling prophecy', arguing that a lack of confidence in higher growth would keep the economy stagnant.

Police Question Firdaus Oiwobo Over Report Against Former UGM BEM Chair Tiyo

South Tangerang Police have questioned lawyer Firdaus Oiwobo regarding his criminal complaint against former Gadjah Mada University student leader Tiyo Ardianto. The report alleges defamation and insult against President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka. Tiyo has responded satirically, suggesting the reports are attempts to demonstrate loyalty to the president.

Kompas Poll: Public Trust in National Police Rises to 82.4%

A recent Kompas Research and Development survey indicates a significant increase in public trust towards the Indonesian National Police (Polri), rising to 82.4%. The institution's positive image also climbed sharply, attributed to the active role of officers in the field. This improvement places Polri among the top five most trusted state institutions, with a higher confidence level than other law enforcement agencies.