Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 2 June 2026

Showing 951-1,000 of 1,852 articles

Police Reveal Motive Behind Killing of South Korean National in Bekasi: Executor Lured by Rp 139 Million Payment

Police have uncovered that the perpetrator in the murder of a South Korean national in Bekasi was motivated by a bribe of Rp 139 million. The executioner, HW, allegedly conspired with the victim's former wife, SJ, to carry out the premeditated attack.

Police Confident Multiple Suspects Involved in Disruption of GMS Worship in Bantul

Yogyakarta Regional Police are investigating the disruption of a religious service at the GMS Church in Bantul, with officials suggesting more than one person will be charged. Investigators are currently analysing CCTV footage and witness testimonies to determine the specific roles of the perpetrators.

Tragedy: 18-Year-Old Shot Dead in Bedroom; Police Recover Revolver and Arrest Accomplice

Police in South Sumatra have arrested an 18-year-old man following a fatal shooting in Mesuji Regency. Authorities recovered a revolver and ammunition from the crime scene, and the suspect was apprehended within 12 hours of the incident.

BPJPH: Halal Industry Contributes 27 Per Cent to National GDP

The Halal Product Assurance Organising Agency (BPJPH) has revealed that the halal industry ecosystem and supply chain contribute approximately 27 per cent to Indonesia's national GDP. This contribution, valued at around Rp 4,900 trillion, highlights the sector's significant role in driving national production, trade, and consumption.

Indonesia Establishes Military and Defence Cooperation with Qatar

The Indonesian government has signed a statement of intent with Qatar to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation and defence industry development. The agreement aims to facilitate joint military exercises, personnel exchanges, and military education, while fostering closer bilateral ties.

Despite High Global Trends, Jewellery Gold Prices Decline Domestically

The Indonesian jewellery gold market has experienced deflation for three consecutive months from March to May 2026. This domestic decline follows price corrections in the international gold market, despite overall global gold prices remaining at high levels.

BPS: Red chilli to rice drive May 2026 inflation to 0.28 per cent

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported a monthly inflation rate of 0.28 per cent for May 2026, driven primarily by rising prices of essential foodstuffs. Key contributors included red chilli, cooking oil, and rice, while annual inflation reached 3.08 per cent.

SAR Team Finds 13 Body Fragments of Victims from WWII Bomb Explosion in Biak Numfor

Search and rescue teams have recovered 13 fragments of human remains following a detonation of a leftover World War II bomb in Biak Numfor. The incident has resulted in five confirmed fatalities and numerous injuries, with authorities continuing efforts to locate missing victims.

Two Decades of the Lapindo Mudflow: Unhealed Wounds and Lingering Hopes

Twenty years after the initial eruption of the Lapindo mudflow in Sidoarjo, victims continue to struggle with unresolved compensation claims and environmental degradation. Residents are now calling upon President Prabowo Subianto to intervene and ensure the full settlement of outstanding debts and restoration of livelihoods.

Prabowo Joins Students for Free Nutritious Meal Programme at Jakarta Junior High School

President Prabowo Subianto visited SMPN 111 Jakarta to personally oversee the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. During the visit, the President sat alongside students in their classrooms to share a meal and engage in discussions about their future aspirations.

Rice Production Reaches 24 Million Tonnes, Farmers Benefit from Rising Terms of Trade

Indonesia's national rice production reached 24.36 million tonnes of dry milled grain between January and April 2026, marking a slight increase from the previous year. This growth in production coincided with an improvement in the Farmer's Terms of Trade (NTP), indicating enhanced welfare for agricultural producers.

Chairman of DPR Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Body Appreciates 2026 Hajj Implementation, Notes Issues with Tents and Sanitation

Syahrul Aidi Maazat, Chairman of the DPR's Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Body, has praised the improved management and services of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. However, he highlighted critical areas for improvement, specifically regarding overcrowding in Mina tents and the adequacy of sanitation facilities.

BPS: Raw Materials and Auxiliaries Drive Indonesian Imports to US$25.21 Billion in April 2026

Indonesia's imports rose by 22.49 per cent year-on-year to US$25.21 billion in April 2026, driven largely by the demand for non-oil and gas commodities. The increase was primarily supported by the rising import of raw materials and auxiliary goods.

Dividend Cum Date Arrives (2/6): This State-Owned Enterprise Offers Dividend of Rp 15,620 per Lot

Today marks the dividend cum date for PT Jasa Marga (Persero) Tbk, the state-owned toll road operator. The company has approved a total cash dividend of Rp 1.1 trillion, representing 31 per cent of its 2025 net profit.

Judge: Miscommunication within Police Force in Handling Andrie Yunus Case

A South Jakarta District Court judge has identified significant miscommunication within the Metro Jaya Regional Police regarding the investigation into the alleged assault of KontraS activist Andrie Yunus. The discrepancy involves conflicting statements regarding whether the investigation remains active or has been transferred to the Military Police.

BPDP ensures compensation funds for B50 programme remain secure until year-end

The Palm Oil Fund Management Agency (BPDPKS) has confirmed that compensation funds for the 50 per cent palm oil-based biodiesel (B50) mandate are secure through the end of the year. The programme, set for implementation in July 2026, aims to reduce fossil fuel dependency and could potentially save the state Rp48 trillion in energy subsidies.

Nadiem admits to being an amateur in politics

Former Minister of Education Nadiem Anwar Makarim has admitted to lacking political finesse during his plea in a corruption trial. He faces significant prison time and massive fines regarding a multi-trillion rupiah education digitalisation scandal.

DPR Commission X to Minister of Higher Education: Manage Free Nutritious Meal Programme Through Research, Not Kitchens

A member of the House of Representatives (DPR) has urged the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology to focus on scientific analysis rather than logistics for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The legislator emphasised that universities should prioritise research into programme effectiveness and safety instead of managing food distribution or kitchens.

Watch Movies More Economically: Bank Woori Saudara Offers QRIS Cashback of Rp15,000 at XXI Cafe

PT Bank Woori Saudara Indonesia 1906 Tbk (BWS) has launched a cashback promotion for customers using QRIS via the BWS Mobile app at participating XXI Cafe outlets. The initiative, part of the bank's 120th anniversary celebrations, aims to promote digital payment adoption and integrate banking services into customers' daily lifestyles.

IDX Composite Surges in Session 1 as Foreign Investors Target Key Stocks

The Indonesia Composite Index (IHSG) rose by 1.49% during the first session of trading on Tuesday, despite a net foreign sell of Rp354.2 billion. Foreign investors showed significant interest in stocks such as Chandra Asri Pacific (TPIA) and Petrindo Jaya Kreasi (CUAN), while selling off positions in Astra International (ASII) and Barito Pacific (BRPT).

Hungarian firms sign green energy deals at Batang SEZ

Two Hungarian companies, Merlion Tech Ltd and Iconic Energi Kft, have signed memorandums of understanding to invest in renewable energy and sustainability within Indonesia's Batang Industropolis Special Economic Zone. The agreements, finalised during an investment forum in Budapest, highlight growing international interest in Indonesia's green energy sector and industrial transformation.

Inhealth Rebrands to Strengthen Synergy with IFG Life

PT Asuransi Jiwa Inhealth Indonesia has officially launched a new corporate logo to strengthen its positioning within the Indonesia Financial Group (IFG) ecosystem. The rebranding aims to enhance synergy with IFG Life through improved digital services and product collaboration.

Fuad Hasan Masyhur unable to attend KPK summons

The President Director of PT Maktour, Fuad Hasan Masyhur, has failed to appear for questioning by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding the alleged Hajj quota corruption case. The KPK spokesperson stated that Masyhur is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage, and investigators are working to reschedule the summons.

The Phenomenon of Pocong Terror Emerges During Indonesia's Economic Hardship

Historical patterns suggest that sightings of the 'Pocong' (shrouded ghost) in Indonesia often coincide with periods of severe economic instability. From the late 1980s to the 1997 financial crisis, these supernatural scares frequently served as cover for criminal activities or reflected heightened social tension.

Kemayoran Fire Victims Need Not Worry, Student Exams to be Rescheduled

The Jakarta Provincial Government has announced that students affected by the major fire in Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, will be provided with assistance to ensure they can complete their examinations. Schools will arrange follow-up exam sessions for those unable to attend due to the emergency situation.

Transport Department Confirms No Port Closure Amid PPS Protests in Sumbawa

The West Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government has debunked rumours regarding the closure of Poto Tano Port following demonstrations for the formation of the Sumbawa Island Province. Authorities have deployed 500 security personnel to ensure that ferry services and logistics distribution remain uninterrupted.

Nadiem Advises Young People Entering Government: Balance Professionalism and Politics

Former Minister of Education, Nadiem Makarim, has shared advice for the younger generation regarding public service during his defence plea in the Jakarta Corruption Court. He emphasised the need to balance professional expertise with political diplomacy, reflecting on his own challenges navigating political dynamics during his tenure.

Party chief makes Nepal's first India trip since uprising

Rabi Lamichhane, president of Nepal's ruling Rastriya Swatantra Party, has visited India to advocate for enhanced economic and strategic cooperation. The high-level visit marks the first significant diplomatic engagement with New Delhi following the recent political upheaval in Nepal.

South Jakarta Mayor Outlines Four Priority Programmes for First 100 Days

The newly appointed Mayor of South Jakarta, Syafrin Liputo, has announced four key strategic priorities for his initial 100 days in office. These initiatives focus on urban environmental management, flood control, MSME business site regulation, and traffic congestion mitigation.

Anthropic Prepares for IPO, Valuation Surpasses Rp 17,256 Trillion

AI developer Anthropic has quietly filed preliminary documents for an initial public offering with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The move positions the company to potentially become one of the first major AI firms to list on the stock exchange, following a massive surge in annual revenue.

Six strategies to help improve the mood of others

Psychologists have identified six key strategies for interpersonal affect regulation to help improve the emotional well-being of others in both personal and professional settings. These methods range from active listening and empathy to using humour and cognitive reframing to foster healthier social connections.

Wearing PPE, Prabowo Inspects Free Nutritious Meal Kitchen in Palmerah, West Jakarta

President Prabowo Subianto visited the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Unit in Palmerah to inspect the operational systems of the Free Nutritious Meal programme. The visit aimed to ensure that the facilities, supply chains, and food safety standards meet the requirements for the national nutrition initiative.

Announcement of The Best Vessel 2026: An Appreciation for Ship Crews

Sinarmas LDA Usaha Pelabuhan (SLUP) has announced the 'The Best Vessel Quarter 1 2026' awards to recognise outstanding crew performance across its fleet. The initiative aims to establish professional benchmarks for the company's 120 Indonesian-flagged vessels and enhance operational excellence.

PT DSI to Become Sole Exporter; Latest Indonesian Coal Export Data Released

PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI) is set to become the sole exporter of coal, CPO, and ferroalloy from Indonesia starting 1 January 2027. Recent data from BPS shows these key commodities accounted for 28.30% of Indonesia's total non-oil and gas exports between January and April 2026.

Bali Transport Agency Begins Traffic Engineering Trial on Hang Tuah Road, Denpasar

The Bali Transport Agency has initiated a traffic engineering trial at two key intersections in Denpasar to alleviate chronic congestion. The trial, running from 2 to 15 June 2026, aims to resolve vehicle conflicts and optimise traffic light phases to prevent queues from extending to the Bypass Ngurah Rai.

DPR RI Commission IX Refines Labour Bill by Gathering Aspirations in Jambi

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) Commission IX is conducting field consultations in Jambi to refine the proposed Labour Bill. The discussions aim to address critical issues including foreign worker permits, minimum wage, and the regulation of digital platform workers.

Do You Speak French?: Remembering Sumitro Djojohadikusumo

A reflective memoir detailing a personal encounter with the late Sumitro Djojohadikusumo, the legendary Indonesian economist and founder of the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Economics. The piece explores the intellectual influences of French literature and European economic thought on his approach to political economy and nation-building.

Health Minister expresses concern over fraudulent research cases for international conferences

Indonesia's Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, has expressed deep disappointment regarding allegations of fabricated research used to secure travel grants for international scientific conferences. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is currently investigating the case, which involves individuals allegedly falsifying data to attend a conference in Denmark.

Concerned About Rising Electricity Bills? Here Is How to Check Your Usage History

PT PLN (Persero) is encouraging customers to use the PLN Mobile application to monitor their electricity consumption patterns independently. The initiative aims to provide greater transparency regarding usage history and payment transactions to help users manage energy more efficiently.

April 2026 Surplus Lowest in Five Years, Indonesia's Trade Deficit with China Widens

Indonesia's trade surplus reached a five-year low of US$ 90 million in April 2026, marking a significant decline from previous months. The nation is also facing an expanding trade deficit with China, which reached US$ 8.03 billion during the same period.

US considers deploying nuclear weapons to more NATO countries

The United States is reportedly discussing the possibility of expanding the deployment of nuclear-capable aircraft to additional NATO member states in Europe. This move aims to increase the presence of dual-capable aircraft across the alliance, particularly in Baltic and eastern flank nations like Poland.

Reflecting on Service to the Government, Nadiem: The Reward I Received is Iron Bars

Former Minister of Education, Nadiem Makarim, delivered a plea for leniency during his corruption trial in Jakarta, expressing heartbreak over his legal predicament. He faces significant prison time and massive financial restitution demands following allegations of wealth disproportionate to his official income.

Bali Regional Legislative Committee Recommends Evaluation of BTID Development Legality

The Special Committee on Spatial Planning, Assets, and Licensing (TRAP) of the Bali Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) has called for a thorough evaluation of the legality of the Bali Turtle Island Development (BTID) project. The committee is urging the Bali Provincial Government to strengthen oversight and coordinate with central ministries to ensure coastal protection and land conservation.

Marwah Wedding Organiser Fraud: Building Subsidies and Free Roasted Lamb Used as Lures

Police have revealed that the owners of Marwah Wedding Organiser used deceptive promotions, including venue subsidies and free food, to defraud clients. The suspects operated a Ponzi-style scheme, using funds from new clients to pay for previous wedding ceremonies.

Driving at 100 km/h in the Right Lane Still Considered Wrong? Here is the Explanation

A common misconception among motorists is that maintaining a high speed in the far-right lane is permissible as long as the speed limit is not exceeded. However, experts clarify that the right lane is strictly reserved for overtaking manoeuvres, and drivers must return to the left lane once passing is complete.

TAUD Demands Military Trial for Acid Attack Case Against Andrie Yunus be Terminated

The Advocacy Team for Democracy (TAUD) is calling for the transfer of the acid attack case involving Andrie Yunus from military to civil court. The legal team argues that the military court lacks credibility and is requesting the Metro Jaya Police to reclaim case files and evidence to ensure proper investigation.

DPR Commission XI: Reorganising Natural Resource Exports is a Vital Step to Bolster Foreign Exchange Reserves

The Chairman of Commission XI of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Mukhamad Misbakhun, has emphasised that restructuring the export of strategic natural resources is essential for strengthening national foreign exchange reserves. This policy aims to prevent revenue leakage through practices such as under-invoicing and transfer pricing, while supporting President Prabowo Subianto's vision for maximising the added value of national wealth.

Behind the Rupiah's Fluctuations: A Reflection of Indonesia's Economic Foundations

The recent depreciation of the Indonesian rupiah serves as a critical indicator of both global pressures and underlying domestic structural issues. As the currency hits new lows, the widening gap between market reality and the 2026 state budget projections raises concerns regarding the accuracy of national economic planning.

Jiung Market Fire Serves as Reminder of Vulnerability in Densely Populated Areas and Traditional Market Activities

The recent fire at Jiung Market in Kemayoran highlights the high fire risks inherent in densely populated areas where residential zones and traditional market activities overlap. The Indonesian Market Traders Association (IKAPPI) DKI Jakarta has called for prioritising economic recovery for small traders affected by the disaster.

PPLS and Task Force Synchronise Compensation Data for Lapindo Mud Victims; Rp1.5 Trillion Remains Unpaid

The Sidoarjo Mud Flow Control Centre (PPLS) is working with a dedicated task force to validate compensation data for residents affected by the Lapindo mud disaster. Despite two decades passing since the initial eruption, approximately Rp1.5 trillion in compensation claims remains unpaid by PT Minarak Lapindo Jaya.