Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

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Family Suspects Mysterious Man Behind Civil Servant's Death at Juanda Airport

The family of a deceased civil servant found in a car at Surabaya's Juanda Airport suspects foul play involving an unidentified man. CCTV footage shows a lone male driver parking the vehicle before leaving in a taxi, while the victim's body was found concealed in the reclined passenger seat. Police are investigating the case, with preliminary autopsy results indicating signs of asphyxia and the family reporting missing jewellery.

Indian Investor J.K. Enterprises Explores Expansion into Central Java's Agriculture and Solar Energy Sectors

Indian firm J.K. Enterprises is exploring new investment opportunities in Central Java, targeting agricultural products and solar energy. The company, which has operated in Indonesia for over 50 years, met with Governor Ahmad Luthfi to discuss the expansion. The provincial government has pledged to facilitate the investment by assisting with technical and regulatory hurdles.

Hajj and Umrah Economic Ecosystem Expected to Boost National Economy

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is strengthening the economic ecosystem surrounding the pilgrimages to ensure benefits extend beyond worshippers to the national economy. The initiative follows the ministry's establishment under President Prabowo Subianto and the creation of a dedicated directorate general. Officials emphasise that synergistic collaboration with travel operators is key to implementing the new law and developing the sector's economic value.

Indonesia could save Rp200 trillion by fixing fuel subsidy errors: DEN

Indonesia's National Energy Council (DEN) has highlighted that reforming the country's fuel subsidy distribution could save up to Rp200 trillion by eliminating inclusion errors that disproportionately benefit the wealthy. Currently, the richest 20 percent of the population receive over half of all fuel subsidies, while the poorest 10 percent receive a negligible amount per capita. The DEN recommends shifting to a closed, targeted subsidy scheme integrated with updated socioeconomic data to ensure funds reach low-income households and can be redirected to social welfare programmes.

Hajj Return Flights from Saudi Arabia to Be Filled with Middle Eastern Tourists

The Indonesian government is forming a cross-ministerial task force to utilise previously empty return flights from Saudi Arabia after the Hajj pilgrimage. The initiative aims to transport Middle Eastern tourists to Indonesia, adding economic value to the Hajj ecosystem. The move follows a directive from President Prabowo Subianto and has received approval from Saudi civil aviation authorities.

World Unites to Aid Venezuela, US Disburses Rp2.3 Trillion After Earthquake

The United Nations is coordinating international urban search and rescue teams for Venezuela following a devastating earthquake. The United States has pledged US$150 million in financial aid, while a wave of humanitarian support and personnel is being mobilised from across Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. The global response includes specialised rescue units, medical teams, and field hospitals to assist the disaster-stricken nation.

Three SPPI Participants Die During Military Training, House Commission I Demands Evaluation

The death of three participants in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangun Indonesia (SPPI) programme during basic military training has prompted a senior lawmaker to call for a thorough evaluation. House Commission I Deputy Chairman Anton Sukartono Suratto stressed that recruitment health checks must be tightened and training modules adapted for civilian participants. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the latest fatality and expressed condolences to the family.

TNI Admits Imposing Physical Punishment on Undisciplined Cooperative Managers

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has confirmed that physical punishments, such as push-ups, are used during basic military training for village cooperative managers to instil discipline. Trainers at the Marine base in Cilandak stated the penalties are adjusted to civilian physical capabilities and are intended to enforce punctuality and collective responsibility. The training aims to prepare participants to manage the 'Koperasi Desa Merah Putih' programme effectively.

Indonesia's Panda Bond issuance remains on track for early July

Indonesia's Finance Ministry has confirmed its planned issuance of yuan-denominated Panda Bonds is on schedule for late June or early July 2026, with licensing progressing smoothly. The move follows diplomatic support from Beijing, where Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa secured backing from the People's Bank of China to fast-track approvals. Jakarta aims to diversify its financing sources and protect the rupiah, with an initial target of US$1 billion that could be increased if investor demand proves strong.

US Ally Claims Victory Over China in 'Battleground' Near Indonesia

The Philippines has claimed a significant diplomatic victory after China removed a floating structure from the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. Manila views the removal as a success but warns that Beijing continues to seek a stronger presence in the strategic waterway. The incident underscores the ongoing geopolitical rivalry between the United States and China in the Indo-Pacific region.

Not Just Confined and Tortured, Did YTR Also Suffer Sexual Violence by Taufik Hidayat?

The West Java Regional Police are investigating potential sexual violence in the case of YTR, who was allegedly confined and tortured by her partner, Taufik Hidayat. Investigators are still gathering and synchronising statements from the victim, who is recovering, and witnesses before drawing conclusions. A joint task force has been established to expedite the investigation, which also includes examining other locations and the suspect's motives.

About 200 digital platforms comply with Indonesia's child safety rules

Approximately 200 digital platforms, including major names like Netflix, ChatGPT, and Shopee, have submitted mandatory child safety risk assessments to the Indonesian government under the new PP Tunas regulation. The Communication and Digital Affairs Ministry is now reviewing these self-assessments to categorise risk levels before public disclosure, as part of a risk-based framework designed to alter platform behaviour. The regulation has already prompted significant enforcement, with TikTok and YouTube deactivating millions of child accounts, while the minister warned of legal consequences for non-compliant platforms.

Sarimelati (PZZA) Expands Beyond Pizza, Invests Rp 10.4 Billion in Yoghurt Business

PT Sarimelati Kencana Tbk (PZZA), the operator of Pizza Hut Indonesia, has made a strategic investment of Rp 10.4 billion into PT Halal Artisan Yummies (HAY), securing a 52% controlling stake. The move is part of a diversification strategy to generate new revenue streams beyond its core pizza business. The company stated the transaction is relatively small, representing about 1.01% of its total equity, and is not expected to put significant pressure on its financial condition.

Weaving the Dreams of Jakarta's Residents

As Jakarta approaches its 500th anniversary in 2027, the city faces significant challenges in flood control, green space expansion, and traffic congestion. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government must implement a series of ambitious infrastructure and policy measures, including river rehabilitation, coastal management, and public transport development. These steps are deemed essential to transform the capital into a sustainable and liveable global city.

Tiyo Ardiyanto's Response to Allegations from the United BEM Alliance

Former UGM BEM chairman Tiyo Ardiyanto has dismissed allegations from the United BEM Alliance linking him to a retired general and the PDI-P party as baseless attempts to distract him. Tiyo stated he was previously unaware of the alliance's existence and challenged his accusers to provide evidence, asserting his independence. He emphasised he would remain focused on substantive issues rather than responding to what he described as fabricated claims.

The new frontier in the US-China AI race: Talent

The global artificial intelligence race is increasingly defined by a battle for elite talent, with the United States and China offering distinct advantages. While the US retains its lead in computing resources and frontier research, China's mature hardware ecosystem and vast domestic market are attracting engineers and founders seeking to build next-generation AI products. This shift is creating a more selective and politically charged pattern of talent circulation, rather than a simple reversal of flows, which could reshape innovation between the two AI superpowers.

US Secretary of State Says Gulf States Reject Tariffs on the Strait of Hormuz

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Gulf nations have expressed no support for imposing tariffs or fees on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Rubio made the remarks following meetings in Bahrain, emphasising that Washington would not make commitments detrimental to its Gulf partners' prosperity or security. He also noted that a proposed $300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran was not discussed and remains a distant prospect.

Youth in Nganjuk Dies After Mob Attack, 14 Named as Suspects

Police in Nganjuk, East Java, have named 14 suspects in connection with a fatal mob attack on a young man in Sukorejo Village. The suspects include three main perpetrators, nine minors, and two adults, who allegedly ambushed the victim's motorcycle and assaulted him with stones and belts. The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday morning, with the three primary suspects accused of throwing stones that caused the victim's serious injuries.

PAM JAYA Explores Market Interest for Water Treatment Plant Revitalisation and Construction in Jakarta

Jakarta's water utility PAM JAYA is initiating a market sounding exercise for the revitalisation and construction of four water treatment plants (IPAs) to boost the capital's bulk water processing capacity. The projects, which include the Condet, Muara Karang, Semanan, and West Flood Canal 2 facilities, are part of a strategic push to achieve 100% piped drinking water coverage by 2029. A consortium of PT Chandra Tirta Karian and PT Krakatau Tirta Industri has been appointed as the initiating partner with a right to match for the upcoming strategic partnership selection.

Indonesia to launch US$20 billion Abadi Masela Gas project in 2027

Indonesia is set to begin construction of the long-delayed US$20 billion Abadi Masela gas megaproject in 2027, with commercial production targeted between 2029 and 2030. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed the government is resolving investment and regulatory obstacles to accelerate the National Strategic Project, following fresh directives from President Prabowo Subianto. Operator INPEX Corporation has committed to an expedited timeline after high-level talks during the president's state visit to Japan, positioning the block as a cornerstone of national energy security.

Minangkabau Festival 2026 Opens, Mahyeldi: Culture is West Sumatra's Future Strength

West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi Ansharullah officially opened the Minangkabau Festival 2026, emphasising culture as a driver for tourism, UMKM growth, and community welfare. The event, part of the national Kharisma Event Nusantara agenda, aims to preserve heritage while boosting the regional economy, which grew 5.02 per cent in the first quarter of 2026. Officials highlighted the festival's role in promoting Minangkabau identity and generating tangible economic benefits for local communities.

UN Mobilises Aid as Venezuela Earthquake Overwhelms Crippled Health Facilities

The United Nations is mobilising emergency aid for Venezuela after a devastating earthquake, with Secretary-General António Guterres expressing deep sorrow over the loss of life. Aid workers on the ground report that health centres, already weakened by years of economic and political crisis, are collapsing under the sheer number of injured seeking help. The international community, including the US and several other nations, has offered support as the country faces critical shortages of medical supplies.

Riau BKSDA Releases Protected and Unprotected Wildlife into Zamrud National Park

The Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) has released a number of wild animals into Zamrud National Park in Siak Regency, including protected species such as the binturong and white-bellied sea eagle. The release is part of a collaborative effort involving local police, the Siak district government, and the Arsari Djojohadikusumo Foundation to preserve biodiversity. Officials urged the public to help protect the animals and their habitat to maintain ecosystem balance.

Brimob Night Patrols in Jakarta and Bekasi Disband Brawls and Illegal Street Races

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Brimob unit conducted extensive night patrols across Jakarta, Tangerang, and Bekasi, resulting in the disruption of illegal street races and a planned brawl. During the operations, officers arrested two suspected motorcycle thieves in Tangerang and seized weapons including a sickle and three sharp blades from groups in North Jakarta and Bekasi. The police emphasised that these routine patrols are a preventive measure to curb street crime and ensure public safety during vulnerable late-night hours.

House Commission I Calls for Evaluation of Military Training After Three Participants Die

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I has urged a thorough evaluation of basic military training programmes following the deaths of three participants in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) scheme. The fatalities occurred during training for prospective managers of village cooperatives and fishing villages at military facilities. Officials confirmed the deaths were due to medical causes including heat stroke and cardiac arrest, prompting calls for improved health and safety protocols.

Evacuation of 11,000 Sailors in Strait of Hormuz Delayed After Cargo Ship Attack

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has postponed the evacuation of over 11,000 stranded sailors from the Strait of Hormuz following a projectile attack on a Singapore-flagged cargo ship. The operation was suspended to ensure crew safety, despite prior coordination with regional powers including Iran and the United States. The delay underscores the fragile security situation in the vital waterway, which has been a flashpoint since the outbreak of hostilities between the US-Israel and Iran.

Indonesian Woven Textiles Enliven 'Women, Thread, and Time' Event in Rome

The Indonesian Embassy to the Holy See and OERIP Indonesia showcased the nation's diverse woven textiles at the 'Women, Thread, and Time' cultural promotion in Rome. The event featured 17 fashion styles made from traditional fabrics sourced from across the archipelago, highlighting the craftsmanship of female weavers. The initiative aims to preserve Indonesia's textile heritage while empowering over 500 artisans from 70 regions.

Jualan Online Makin Aman, Aturan Baru Ini Bikin UMKM Tersenyum

Kementerian UMKM telah menerbitkan peraturan baru yang melarang platform e-commerce menaikkan biaya layanan secara sepihak atau mewajibkan diskon besar tanpa persetujuan pelaku usaha. Langkah ini bertujuan menciptakan ekosistem perdagangan digital yang lebih adil dan memberikan kepastian hukum bagi jutaan pedagang online. Regulasi tersebut diharapkan dapat meningkatkan daya saing UMKM Indonesia di era ekonomi digital.

Jakarta Police Take Over Grace Natalie Case, Bareskrim Vows Continued Assistance

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have taken over the investigation into a blasphemy and defamation case involving PSI politician Grace Natalie, originally filed by 40 Islamic organisations. The case was transferred from the National Police's Criminal Investigation Department (Bareskrim), which has pledged to continue providing assistance. The complainants have expressed regret over the transfer, arguing the case threatens national unity and religious harmony.

Indonesia Faces Three Deficits: Morality, Intellectuality, and Spirituality

Two prominent Indonesian figures have warned that the nation is suffering from serious deficits in morality, intellectuality, and spirituality, marking a significant regression from the achievements of the 1998 reform era. They argue that the root cause lies in a failure of national leadership, which has resulted in fragile state institutions and rampant nepotism and corruption. The speakers called for a revival of civil society and academic movements to restore good governance.

Dividen Samudera Indonesia (SMDR) Naik Satu Digit

PT Samudera Indonesia Tbk (SMDR) mengumumkan total dividen tahun buku 2025 sebesar Rp196,5 miliar atau Rp12 per saham, naik 9,09% dari tahun sebelumnya. Kenaikan dividen ini didorong oleh pertumbuhan pendapatan dan laba bersih perusahaan. Selain itu, perseroan berencana menerbitkan Sukuk Ijarah Berkelanjutan senilai Rp700 miliar untuk membeli tiga kapal baru guna memperkuat kapasitas operasional.

Minister Bahlil confirms coal supply issues for power plants resolved

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has stated that the supply constraints of medium-rank coal for steam power plants (PLTU) have been fully resolved. A special team has been formed to oversee coal procurement for PLN to prevent future disruptions to national energy security. PLN's director also confirmed smooth coal deliveries and ongoing improvements to Java's electricity system.

Cheated by Brokers, Hindered by the Dutch: Indonesian Pilgrims Only Reached Singapore

The article recounts the immense historical difficulties faced by Indonesian Muslims undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage, contrasting modern air travel with the perilous months-long sea voyages of the past. It highlights how pilgrims were often cheated by brokers and deliberately obstructed by the Dutch colonial administration, which feared the anti-colonial networks formed in Mecca. Many pilgrims, after enduring these hardships, only managed to reach as far as Singapore.

Venezuela Twin Quake Update: 188 Dead, 1,520 Injured

The death toll from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela has risen to 188, with 1,520 people reported injured. Rescue operations are ongoing as emergency teams and citizens struggle to extract survivors trapped beneath collapsed buildings, particularly in the hard-hit state of La Guaira. Offers of international assistance have been received, while strong aftershocks continue to rattle the region.

Sony Sonjaya Seeks LPSK Approval for Justice Collaborator Status, Citing Bharada E Case

Former Deputy Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Sony Sonjaya, is seeking justice collaborator status from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) in a corruption case. His legal team has drawn comparisons to the high-profile case of Richard Eliezer (Bharada E), who received a reduced sentence after being granted justice collaborator status despite being a perpetrator in a murder case. The Attorney General's Office has already rejected the application, arguing that Sonjaya is a main actor in the alleged crime and has not admitted his guilt.

PT Pos Indonesia Overhaul: House Commission VI Member Urges Digital Transformation

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged state postal company PT Pos Indonesia to accelerate its digital transformation and integrate its services to remain competitive. Doni Akbar of Commission VI emphasised the need to consolidate the firm's fragmented national network and strengthen its logistics and marketplace segments. He warned that the company's future hinges on converting its vast physical assets into a digital logistics ecosystem capable of competing directly with private sector rivals.

PTPN IV PalmCo Absorbs 1.34 Million Tonnes of Smallholder Palm Oil FFB

State-owned plantation firm PTPN IV PalmCo has absorbed 1.34 million tonnes of fresh fruit bunches from smallholder farmers up to May 2026, marking an increase from the previous year. The company emphasises that market certainty and continuous absorption are crucial for sustaining farmer welfare, while also addressing long-term productivity challenges through replanting education and assistance programmes.

KPK Reveals Extortion Tariffs at Bali Immigration Offices Ranged from Rp100,000 to Rp2.5 Million

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that alleged extortion fees for processing foreign nationals' residence permits at immigration offices in Bali ranged from Rp100,000 to Rp2.5 million. The illicit payments, demanded from foreign nationals or their agents, were required to ensure applications were processed, with officials deliberately stalling those who refused to pay. The revelation stems from an investigation into a broader corruption case involving senior immigration officials, including a former deputy minister, who allegedly amassed Rp145.5 billion from the scheme between 2022 and 2026.

Truck Crashes into TransJakarta Bus Shelter in Tebet, Driver Flees Scene

A truck collided with the TransJakarta bus shelter at Tebet Eco Park in South Jakarta early Thursday morning, causing significant damage before the driver fled. The impact damaged the shelter's roof, automatic doors, and glass panels, though passenger services continue to operate normally. Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage to identify the truck and its driver.

Police Indicate New Suspects Possible in Little Aresha Daycare Case After 13 Transferred to Prosecutors

Yogyakarta police have signalled that the investigation into alleged child abuse at the Little Aresha daycare centre is not over, despite transferring 13 suspects to the prosecutor's office. Investigators are continuing to examine the potential involvement of other parties, with 17 witnesses still under mandatory reporting obligations. The case has involved testimony from 154 witnesses and three experts in education, medicine, and criminal law.

North Sumatra Governor confirms repair of damaged road in Deli Serdang to begin

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has confirmed that repairs to the damaged Perintis Kemerdekaan Road in Deli Serdang Regency will commence shortly, backed by over Rp31 billion in provincial budget allocations. The project aims to improve public safety and comfort while boosting the local economy. Nasution also pledged to crack down on illegal sand mining operations, whose overloaded lorries are blamed for the road's deterioration.

Surabaya Campus Helps Boost WSU's World Sustainability Ranking

Western Sydney University has secured third place globally in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026, reflecting contributions from its international campuses including Surabaya. The ranking assesses over 1,600 universities on their alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. WSU's strong performance underscores its commitment to embedding sustainability across teaching, research, and operations.

Minister Reveals Acceleration of National Pharmaceutical and Car Industry Development

The Indonesian government is accelerating the development of strategic national industries, including pharmaceuticals and automotive. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto stated that President Prabowo has directed the speeding up of domestic industrialisation programmes. These initiatives include the development of a national car and motorcycle, as well as downstreaming efforts.

KPK Probes Jakarta Railway Official Over Alleged DJKA Project Fees

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the head of Jakarta's Class I Railway Engineering Centre for his knowledge of alleged fee payments related to Directorate General of Railways projects. The inquiry focuses on the flow of money from private contractors to officials within the DJKA and the Ministry of Transportation. The case stems from a 2023 sting operation and involves alleged bid-rigging across multiple railway infrastructure projects in Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi.

Jakarta Authorities Tow Illegally Parked Vehicles in Senopati After Viral Social Media Posts

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has conducted an enforcement operation against illegally parked vehicles on Jalan Senopati and Jalan Gunawarman in South Jakarta. The crackdown was prompted by viral social media posts highlighting the issue. Officials stated they first issued warnings to vehicle owners before towing those that were not moved within 10 minutes.

Switzerland Deploys 80 Rescue Personnel to Earthquake-Stricken Venezuela

Switzerland is dispatching an 80-strong rescue team, along with eight search dogs and 18 tonnes of equipment, to Venezuela following twin devastating earthquakes. The deployment, announced by the Swiss foreign ministry, aims to locate and extract survivors trapped under rubble after the strongest tremors to hit the country since 1900. The mission faced initial logistical hurdles due to restricted airspace for European carriers.

Beware of Phishing and Fake Customer Support on Crypto Platforms, Indodax Reveals the Methods

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting cryptocurrency users through social engineering, with phishing and fake customer support scams accounting for over 63% of Web3 security losses in early 2026. Indodax warns that perpetrators are exploiting human psychology and using generative AI to craft highly convincing fraudulent communications. The exchange urges users to verify any requests for sensitive account information before responding.

Apindo Urges Government to Improve Investment Climate After MSCI Retains Indonesia's Status

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has called on the government to accelerate improvements to the investment climate and business certainty, despite MSCI maintaining Indonesia's emerging market status. Apindo Chairwoman Shinta Widjaja Kamdani noted that while the classification is positive, significant challenges remain, including rising business costs and global geopolitical pressures. She stressed that comprehensive ecosystem reform is more critical than merely preserving a market ranking.

KPK Examines Three Notaries to Trace Assets of Suspects in Manpower Ministry K3 Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned three notaries as part of an investigation into assets allegedly controlled or purchased by suspects in a workplace safety certification extortion case. The probe targets individuals including the Deputy Minister of Manpower, Immanuel Ebenezer Gerungan, and ten others. Three other notaries failed to comply with the summons, the KPK spokesperson confirmed.

SIG Boosts Hundreds of MSMEs, Rembang State-Owned Enterprise House Records Rp6.9 Billion in Transactions

PT Semen Indonesia (SIG) has reported cumulative transactions of Rp6.9 billion through its Rembang State-Owned Enterprise House (RB Rembang) programme, which has mentored 580 micro, small, and medium enterprises since 2020. The initiative, managed by subsidiary PT Semen Gresik, has also absorbed over 2,100 local workers, reinforcing its role as a village-based business incubator. SIG emphasised that the programme is part of its sustainability strategy to foster inclusive local economic growth and strengthen MSME competitiveness.