Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 26 June 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,505 articles

Jakarta Uses 499th Anniversary as Gateway to Five-Century Transformation

The Jakarta provincial government is using the city's 499th anniversary as a strategic starting point for a major transformation ahead of its 500th year in 2027. Deputy Governor Rano Karno emphasised that the current administration will focus on continuing existing programmes, such as river normalisation and public transport improvements, rather than launching new initiatives. The anniversary celebrations are also expected to generate up to eight trillion rupiah for small and medium enterprises.

Thousands Engage in Tomato War in Lembang, a Tradition to Banish Negative Energy and Sow New Hope

After a six-year hiatus, the 'Rempug Tarung Adu Tomat' festival returned to Lembang, West Java, drawing thousands of residents and visitors. The event, which involves participants pelting each other with tomatoes, is a symbolic tradition intended to dispel negative energy and welcome new aspirations. Organisers noted the palpable sense of longing and heightened enthusiasm surrounding the festival's revival.

Metro Police Arrest 635 Tramadol Dealers Operating Behind Cosmetic and Grocery Shops

Polda Metro Jaya has arrested 635 suspects involved in the illicit distribution of hard drugs, including tramadol and alprazolam, across 528 locations from January to June 2026. The syndicate disguised its operations by selling the pharmaceuticals from cosmetic stores and roadside grocery stalls. Authorities seized a total of 13.42 tonnes of evidence, with major busts occurring in South Tangerang and North Jakarta.

Traffic Corps Receives Award from Transport Minister for Successful 2026 Eid Transport Security

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) has been honoured by Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi for its role in securing the 2026 Eid homecoming transport period. The award acknowledges the dedication of all personnel involved in Operation Ketupat 2026. Officials emphasised that the success was achieved through strong inter-agency synergy to ensure public safety and smooth traffic flow.

Minyakita Producer Withdraws All Products Tainted with Fuel Odour from Circulation

PT Kusuma Mukti Remaja (KMR) has completed the withdrawal of over 182,500 litres of its Minyakita cooking oil after consumers reported a diesel or kerosene-like smell. The company stated the affected batch was exclusively produced for a government food aid programme and has been replaced. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the contamination, with initial suspicions pointing to the storage or transportation process.

Bank Mandiri Net Profit Grows 18.6% to Rp23.3 Trillion

Bank Mandiri reported a net profit of Rp23.3 trillion for the first five months of 2026, an 18.6% year-on-year increase, driven by strong lending growth. The bank's total assets expanded 20% to Rp2,306 trillion, while its return on equity remained stable at around 20%. The performance was supported by a 20.6% rise in credit disbursement to productive sectors and a 22% increase in third-party funds.

KPK Investigates Alleged Illegal Payments at Ngurah Rai and Denpasar Immigration Counters

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating alleged unofficial payments demanded at immigration counters in Ngurah Rai and Denpasar, Bali. Two staff members from a local service bureau were questioned over claims that foreign nationals' residence permit applications would not be processed without these additional fees. The probe is part of a larger case involving an estimated total of Rp 145.5 billion in illicit funds, with eight suspects already named, including former senior immigration officials.

OKU BPBD Forms Rapid Reaction Team for Forest and Land Fire Mitigation

The Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU) Regency Disaster Management Agency has established a 300-member Rapid Reaction Team to tackle forest and land fires during the prolonged dry season. Personnel from the agency, military, police, and other local government bodies will be deployed across 13 sub-districts, with five high-risk areas prioritised. The initiative aims to enable early fire suppression, rescue operations, and the prevention of haze disasters.

Prudential Syariah Launches SIGAP and Satu Social Space to Foster Young Entrepreneurs

Prudential Syariah and LAZ Al-Azhar have launched two initiatives, SIGAP and Satu Social Space, aimed at empowering young Indonesians to achieve economic independence. The programme addresses the gap where 60% of youth lack capital to start a business, despite UMKM contributing over 60% to national GDP. The initiative provides skills training, capital, and a collaborative hub for financial literacy and business development.

Surabaya's BRIDA develops pyrolysis to turn mangrove plastic waste into boat fuel

Surabaya's Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA) is tackling plastic waste choking coastal mangrove forests by developing pyrolysis technology to convert it into fuel oil. The initiative targets non-valuable plastic debris, such as damaged bags, which gets trapped in mangrove roots during high tides. The resulting fuel is intended to be distributed to local fishermen for use in their outboard motors, creating a circular economy incentive for waste collection.

Immigration Probes 15 Companies Sponsoring Foreigners in Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Syndicate

The Directorate General of Immigration is investigating 15 Indonesian companies that acted as sponsors for hundreds of foreign nationals involved in an online gambling syndicate in West Jakarta. The foreigners entered Indonesia legally using visit visas and visa-on-arrival documents, but violated their permits by working illegally. Authorities are coordinating with the police to summon and question the management of these sponsoring firms.

Business and Local Government Collaboration Opens Job Opportunities for Labuan Bajo Residents

A partnership between young entrepreneur Deni Zulkarnaen and the West Manggarai Regency Manpower Office aims to boost local workforce skills and employment in Labuan Bajo. The programme will provide industry-relevant training and prioritise qualified participants for jobs in developing businesses. Officials hope the initiative will build a sustainable employment ecosystem and support regional economic growth tied to the area's expanding tourism sector.

Deputy Minister Calls for 'Genting' Stunting Programme to Reach Papua's 3T Regions

Deputy Minister for Population and Family Development Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka has urged the expansion of the 'Genting' foster parent programme for stunting prevention to cover disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas in Papua. The initiative, launched in Jayapura, aims to mobilise collaboration from state-owned enterprises, academics, and the community to support at-risk children. The programme has already received backing from BRI, which is providing assistance to 50 families and building sanitation facilities.

BSKDN Oversees Implementation of President's Priority Programmes in the Regions

The Ministry of Home Affairs' BSKDN is strengthening central-regional synergy to ensure the President's priority programmes deliver tangible public benefits. A regional coordination meeting in Bandung focused on evaluating achievements, identifying obstacles, and formulating adaptive policy recommendations. Legislative support was also pledged, with emphasis on inflation control and accelerating the Three Million Houses programme.

PAM Jaya Apologises to Jakartans for Road Excavations

Jakarta's municipally owned water company, PAM Jaya, has issued a public apology for traffic congestion caused by its extensive pipeline construction across the capital. The utility is currently laying 1,200 kilometres of new pipes as part of a push to achieve 100 per cent water service coverage by 2029, a target mandated by the provincial government. With current coverage at 82 per cent, serving 8.9 million residents, the company estimates it still needs to install over 2,000 kilometres of piping.

Ministry of Forestry: Utilising forests does not mean destroying them

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry asserts that sustainable forest utilisation is not synonymous with deforestation, but rather a key part of conservation. The government is promoting multi-business forestry schemes to boost the economic value of forests through timber and non-timber products like agarwood and palm sugar. Officials argue that managed harvesting, including replanting obligations, prevents biomass build-up that can lead to fires and floods.

Papua Prepares Sustainable Forestry Roadmap for Sector Transformation

The Papua provincial government is developing a sustainable forestry roadmap to boost the sector's economic contribution while preserving forests and improving the welfare of indigenous communities. The initiative, supported by the Indonesian Forestry Entrepreneurs Association (APHI), aims to guide policy alignment between regional and central governments. The roadmap will focus on multi-business forestry, including timber, non-timber products, and environmental services like carbon trading.

Muharram and the Direction of Life's Transformation

As the Islamic New Year 1448 H begins, a reflection on persistent social ills—from poverty and online gambling to child exploitation and the humanitarian crisis in Palestine—underscores the need for a fundamental shift in mindset and policy. The article argues that the concept of 'hijrah' must move beyond symbolic migration to encompass a comprehensive, civilisation-building transformation rooted in justice and collective responsibility. It calls for a structured and sustainable effort to realign societal values with divine principles.

Polwan Jaga Jakarta Introduces Police Duties to Kindergarten Students in Central Jakarta

The Polwan Jaga Jakarta unit of the Central Jakarta Metro Police held an educational event for kindergarten students to foster familiarity with law enforcement from an early age. The programme included lessons on police duties, traffic discipline, and proper etiquette, alongside tours of the police headquarters and the National Monument. The initiative aims to build a friendly image of the police as protectors and friends to the community.

Ferry Ticket Discounts of Up to Rp200,000 Available, Check the Promotion Dates

The Indonesian government is offering a stimulus programme providing discounts on ferry tickets from 20 June to 5 July 2026. As of 25 June, over 418,000 passengers have utilised the scheme, which covers 14 ports and seven strategic national routes. The programme includes a 100% discount on port service fees, equating to an average reduction of 21.9% on total ticket prices.

Eight Banks Have Licences Revoked in 2026, Here's the List

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revoked the business licences of eight People's Credit Banks (BPR) up to June 2026 due to unresolved financial health issues, primarily concerning capital adequacy. The most recent closure involves PT BPR Ceper Permata Artha in Klaten, Central Java, which was shut after failing to recover from its status as a bank under resolution. The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) will now process customer deposit claims for the affected banks.

NTB Police Arrest 574 Suspects in Drug and Alcohol Cases Over Six Months

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional Police have arrested 574 suspects from 442 cases involving narcotics and illicit alcohol between January and June 2026. The seized evidence includes 7.7 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, 7.7 kilograms of cannabis, and nearly 8,000 bottles of alcoholic beverages. Authorities have destroyed a portion of the confiscated items while the remainder awaits court-ordered forfeiture rulings.

Grobogan Declares 184-Day Drought Emergency Alert Status

The Grobogan Regency administration in Central Java has declared a drought and forest fire emergency alert status lasting 184 days, from 1 May to 31 October 2026. The decision follows a clean water crisis affecting dozens of families, with the most severe impact recorded in Gedangan Village, Wirosari District. The emergency status aims to optimise resource deployment for mitigation and direct water distribution to affected communities.

AIIB to open Indonesia office after securing US$17 billion financing

Indonesia will provide land and buildings for a new Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) branch office following a US$17 billion project financing commitment. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa clarified the facility is not a conventional state loan but a dedicated, low-interest fund for productive long-term infrastructure projects, to be disbursed gradually until 2029. The physical office is expected to streamline communication and accelerate the execution of the development pipeline.

Ahead of School Holiday Weekend, 250,519 Discounted Train Tickets Still Available

State-owned railway operator PT KAI has announced that 250,519 discounted train tickets remain available for the school holiday period ending 5 July 2026. The 30 per cent government subsidy programme has seen strong uptake, particularly on peak weekend dates, with 924,105 tickets already booked. KAI is encouraging families to consider off-peak travel dates for a more comfortable journey and to utilise the Access by KAI app for planning.

Hormuz Strait Traffic Continues After Projectile Attack on Singaporean Vessel

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continued in both directions on Friday despite a projectile attack on a container ship that prompted some owners to review transit plans. Tracking data showed tankers and gas carriers navigating the key energy chokepoint, with vessels using both the southern corridor managed by Oman and the northern route near Iran. The incident has renewed focus on the management of the strait, which remains a point of contention between Washington and Tehran.

Floods submerge 30 homes and 5.5 hectares of land in Mandailing Natal

Flooding triggered by light to moderate rainfall has inundated at least 30 houses and 5.5 hectares of land across two sub-districts in Mandailing Natal Regency, North Sumatra. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) reported that waters have begun to recede, while local disaster officers continue to assess the damage and coordinate relief efforts. No casualties have been reported.

Online Gambling Syndicate in Hayam Wuruk Rakes in Rp 1.69 T Profit, Deposits Hit Rp 13.9 T

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit has uncovered a massive online gambling syndicate operating from Hayam Wuruk Tower in West Jakarta. Digital forensic analysis revealed the network accumulated Rp 1.69 trillion in profit from total player deposits of Rp 13.9 trillion. Authorities have arrested 287 foreign nationals and four Indonesian citizens involved in the operation, which disguised itself as a digital marketing and technology company.

Bontang Mayor Neni Confirms ASN TPP Hoax, Guarantees Full Payment Until End of 2026

Bontang Mayor Neni Moerniaeni has dismissed as a hoax rumours that the Additional Employee Income (TPP) for civil servants (ASN) would only be paid until September 2026. She confirmed that the municipal government has never discussed cutting the allowance and guaranteed full payment through the end of the year. The mayor acknowledged a decline in regional revenue but stated that budget efficiencies would target non-priority sectors such as official travel and meetings, not employee rights.

Europe Faces 'Energy Catastrophe' as US Threatens Gas Supply Cut

The United States has threatened to redirect its liquefied natural gas exports away from Europe unless the EU relaxes upcoming methane emission regulations. This move could trigger an energy crisis for the bloc, which has become heavily reliant on American gas since reducing Russian imports. The EU's energy commissioner has so far rejected calls to weaken the environmental standards.

Polda Metro Jaya Reveals Six Major Drug Cases in Early 2026

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police's Narcotics Directorate has unveiled six prominent drug cases from January to June 2026, including a clandestine vape liquid lab and a pill factory disguised as an animal feed warehouse. The operations resulted in the seizure of tonnes of precursors, hundreds of thousands of pills, and over 100 kilograms of narcotics. Police emphasised their commitment to sustained law enforcement to protect the nation's youth from the dangers of drugs.

IPB University develops economically viable forage feed in Garut

Researchers from IPB University have developed an innovative, cost-effective forage feed in Garut, West Java, utilising locally sourced biomass such as corn stalks. The initiative aims to address the limited availability of quality green fodder for livestock by providing a practical and nutritious alternative. Local government and farming communities have welcomed the development, which is expected to boost efficiency for sheep farmers in the region.

When European Desire Changed the Fate of the Archipelago

The insatiable European craving for spices during the Middle Ages, driven by both culinary deprivation and a belief in their medicinal properties, set the stage for the colonisation of the Indonesian archipelago. This obsession transformed remote islands like Ternate and Tidore in Maluku, the world's primary source of cloves, into fiercely contested prizes. The pursuit of these valuable commodities led to brutal imperialist exploitation, revealing that the European drive was fuelled by an irrational 'eroticism' of spice as much as by economic need.

Weekend Getaway to Pasarnguter Station: Enjoying Traditional Herbal Drinks

Pasarnguter Station in Sukoharjo, Central Java, serves as a vital gateway to the renowned Pasar Jamu Nguter herbal market, supporting local economic activity and cultural tourism. The station, served by the affordable Batara Kresna train, connects visitors to a centre of traditional jamu production and trade. This accessibility bolsters the micro-economy of a region where a majority of the 56,015 residents are of productive working age and engaged in agriculture and herbal commodity production.

15 Arrested in China-Malaysia Drug Syndicate Bust, 108 kg of Meth Seized

Jakarta police have dismantled a major drug trafficking network with links to China, Malaysia, and Medan, arresting 15 suspects and seizing 108.37 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine. The operation also uncovered a clandestine ecstasy laboratory operating out of an apartment in Jakarta. In a related series of raids, authorities arrested 28 individuals and confiscated 220 kilograms of cannabis from a Medan-Jakarta syndicate.

Financial Center Tax Incentives: Indonesia on the Path to Tax Haven?

The Indonesian government is drafting legislation to establish an international financial centre with special tax incentives, aiming to attract large-scale investment akin to Singapore and Dubai. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto acknowledged the risk of Indonesia being perceived as a tax haven but emphasised the need for breakthroughs to compete for global capital. The initiative, mandated by Law 4/2026, will be managed by a special council and grant special tax treatment to businesses within the zone.

Defence Ministry Confirms Death of Another Village Cooperative Manager Candidate During Military Training

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of Muhammad Rifki Renaldi, a candidate manager for the 'Red and White Village Cooperative' programme, during basic military training. Rifki experienced shortness of breath and later died in intensive care despite medical intervention. This marks the fourth fatality among participants of the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) programme, prompting a comprehensive evaluation of health screening and supervision procedures.

Minister: New Airfare Price Cap Ready When Jet Fuel Prices Stabilise

The Indonesian government has finalised a new formula for domestic airfare price caps but will delay implementation until global jet fuel prices and geopolitical conditions stabilise. The revised tariff structure updates components last set in 2019 to better reflect current operational costs.

When Hallyu Becomes a Lifestyle: Reading the Korean Phenomenon from a Sociological Perspective

The article examines the deep integration of South Korean popular culture, or Hallyu, into the daily lives of Indonesian youth, framing it as a sociological process of cultural globalisation. It highlights how digital media facilitates this cultural exchange, creating new forms of social interaction and community among fans, while also raising concerns about the potential marginalisation of local Indonesian culture. The piece ultimately argues that the Korean Wave should serve as a moment of reflection for Indonesia to strategically manage and promote its own cultural wealth in the modern era.

Four Kopdes Merah Putih Manager Candidates Die During Military Training

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of a fourth participant in the basic military training programme for the Kopdes Merah Putih village cooperative scheme. Muhammad Rifki Renaldi Gunawan died after experiencing shortness of breath, bringing the total fatalities to four since mid-June. The ministry has pledged a thorough evaluation of the programme's implementation to prevent further incidents.

Indonesia Ranks Second in Muslim Travel Index, International Islamic Expo 2026 in Jakarta Expected to Generate Rp115 Billion in Economic Turnover

Indonesia has climbed to second place in the Global Muslim Travel Index 2026, with regions such as West Sumatra and West Nusa Tenggara identified as key drivers of this success. The government is now targeting the top spot by enhancing services for Muslim travellers. The International Islamic Expo 2026 in Jakarta is projected to attract 18,000 visitors and generate an economic turnover of Rp115 billion, forming part of a broader strategy to strengthen the MICE sector.

Colonial Legacy: How the Sultanates of the Archipelago Lost Their Sovereignty

The arrival of European powers, particularly the Dutch VOC, systematically dismantled the political and economic sovereignty of the Indonesian archipelago's sultanates. Through monopolistic trade practices and divide-and-rule tactics, colonial forces transformed powerful maritime kingdoms into largely symbolic entities. This historical process reshaped the region's political landscape, leaving a cultural legacy that persists in modern Indonesia.

Bontang's Craft Sector Goes Digital to Penetrate National and International Markets

The Bontang city government is equipping local artisans with digital marketing skills to boost the competitiveness of traditional crafts. Officials stress that mastering online platforms is essential for transforming local products, which feature unique coastal motifs, into high-value goods. The initiative includes ongoing support such as business legalisation and intellectual property protection to help products reach wider markets.

Minister Gathers Fathers in Yogyakarta to Promote 'Fathers Must Be Present' Campaign

Minister of Population and Family Development Wihaji convened hundreds of fathers in Yogyakarta to launch the 'Fathers Must Be Present' campaign as part of the 2026 National Family Day. He highlighted Yogyakarta as a model for family development, citing its high life expectancy and Human Development Index, while warning that 25 per cent of Indonesian children experience 'fatherlessness'. The initiative aims to strengthen the role of fathers in nurturing the next generation.

Ministry pushes to harmonize Archipelagic Regions Bill with laws

The Indonesian government is seeking to align the proposed Archipelagic Regions Bill with existing national legislation and international law to prevent jurisdictional conflicts. The bill aims to address connectivity, public service, and economic challenges in Indonesia's archipelagic regions while ensuring consistency with laws on regional governance, fiscal relations, and maritime affairs. Officials hope the harmonised legislation will accelerate development and improve welfare across the world's largest archipelagic nation.

Deputy Governor Rano Claims Jakarta Fair Drives MSMEs, Targets Rp8 Trillion in Transactions

Deputy Governor of Jakarta, Rano Karno, has stated that the annual Jakarta Fair is more than just entertainment, serving as a key driver for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and regional income. The provincial government is targeting transaction values of Rp8 trillion this year, up from Rp7.3 trillion previously. The event has already attracted over 1.5 million visitors in its first week, highlighting strong economic activity in the capital.

Behind the Bustle of Coffee Shops: The Social Stage of a Generation Trying to Survive

The proliferation of coffee shops in Indonesia, despite economic pressures, is examined through a sociological lens. Rather than a simple indicator of consumer spending power, these spaces serve as modern 'front stages' where young people perform productivity and manage their identities. The phenomenon reflects a generation's need for psychological comfort and community amidst financial anxiety and social complexity.

House Commission VII Urges Tourism Ministry and Immigration to Find Common Ground on Visa-Free Policy

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission VII has called for stronger coordination between the Ministry of Tourism and the Directorate General of Immigration to resolve differing views on the visa-free policy. The commission emphasised the need to balance economic growth from tourism with national security concerns. A key focus is shifting towards quality tourism that delivers tangible economic impact rather than merely increasing visitor numbers.

Taufik Hidayat Imprisoned and Tortured YTR, Causing Severe Injuries in Four Different Boarding Houses

West Java Police have revealed that Taufik Hidayat subjected his girlfriend, YTR, to imprisonment and torture across four different boarding houses over a period of two years. The systematic abuse resulted in severe injuries, including the victim losing her sight in both eyes and suffering wounds that impaired her ability to walk and speak. The suspect was eventually evicted from one location following a dispute with another resident, leading to the discovery of the crimes.

Bontang Mayor Encourages MSMEs to Utilise Safe and Legal Financing

Bontang Mayor Neni Moerniaeni has urged local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to seek financing from credible and legal institutions, warning against the dangers of illegal online loans and fraudulent investment schemes. Speaking at a financial literacy event attended by 180 business actors, she emphasised the government's commitment to fostering a healthy and sustainable business ecosystem. The initiative, a collaboration between the Financial Services Authority (OJK), Bank Indonesia, and the regional government, aims to boost financial inclusion and protect local entrepreneurs.