Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 2 June 2026

Showing 1,701-1,750 of 1,852 articles

France Detains Tanker Vessel; Russia Accuses International Piracy

France's military detained the Russian tanker Tagor in the Atlantic Ocean on suspicion of using false flag identification, triggering strong condemnation from the Kremlin, which characterised the seizure as illegal and akin to international piracy. Russia's Foreign Ministry has demanded information from French authorities regarding Russian nationals aboard the vessel and confirmed the ship's captain is a Russian citizen. The incident has raised tensions between Russia and France over maritime shipping practices and international maritime law compliance.

Husein Sastranegara Airport Ready for Reactivation of Commercial Flights

The Indonesian Air Force's Husein Sastranegara Air Base in Bandung has declared full readiness to support the central government's plan to reactivate the airport for large-scale commercial operations. The airport's facilities remain in excellent condition and capable of handling narrow-body commercial aircraft, though final authorisation must come from the Transport Ministry. The reactivation, initiated by presidential directive, is expected to boost Bandung's tourism and economic sectors.

Pertiwi and the conversation of civilisation

Surabaya's Dr Soetomo Museum has launched "Cross Musea Pertiwi", a collaborative exhibition featuring three museums from different institutions presenting a narrative about human life from birth to death. The exhibition reflects museums' broader struggle to remain relevant in the digital age, addressing the persistent challenge of low visitor numbers in Indonesian museums and the need to adapt to rapidly changing modes of cultural consumption among younger generations.

Opinion: New Threat to Sustainable Investment - Green Economy

Indonesia faces mounting climate and environmental crises, driving increased demand for corporate transparency through ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting standards. However, the article highlights a critical gap between formal ESG disclosures and actual business practices, manifest in both greenwashing—where companies exaggerate environmental credentials—and greenhushing, where firms underreport genuine sustainability efforts due to litigation fears. The author argues that transparent, audited ESG reporting is essential for investor confidence and financial performance, whilst calling for real-time ESG detection databases and improved data coverage across Indonesian-listed companies.

Prabowo: Indonesia Will Not Be a Beggar Nation If Pancasila Values Are Practised

President Prabowo Subianto asserted that Indonesia will become a prosperous and respected nation if Pancasila values are comprehensively implemented across all aspects of governance and society. Speaking at the Pancasila Day commemoration at the Foreign Ministry in Jakarta, Prabowo outlined his vision for a Pancasila-based economy rooted in religious principles, humanitarian values, national unity, and social justice.

Three Residents Injured in Residential Fire Behind Jiung Market in Kemayoran

A residential fire broke out in the Kemayoran Gempol area behind Pasar Jiung in Central Jakarta on the evening of 1 June 2026, leaving three people injured and approximately 250 semi-permanent buildings housing 300 families affected. The fire was reported at 20:55 and was brought under control by firefighters using 33 units and over 100 personnel, with containment achieved at 23:30 after nearly three hours of operations.

National Nutrition Board Plans to Expand Free Nutritious Meals Programme to Indonesian Migrant Worker Children Abroad

Indonesia's National Nutrition Board (BGN) is expanding its Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to include children of Indonesian migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, starting with schools in Jeddah and Mecca. The initiative responds to requests from around 1,480 Indonesian school children in these cities who wish to benefit from the same nutritional support provided to students in Indonesia.

Chaos as Kenyans Protest Plans for Ebola Quarantine Centre

Hundreds of residents in Nanyuki, Kenya have taken to the streets to protest a planned US-backed Ebola quarantine facility at a military base, fearing the deadly virus could spread to their country despite Kenya having no confirmed cases. The High Court has ordered a temporary halt to the project, yet US military aircraft have reportedly continued to move in and out of the airbase, suggesting preparations are ongoing. Kenya's Health Minister defended the facility as part of broader emergency response measures, whilst residents and activists demand permanent closure or relocation.

Dealers Reveal Why Electric Vehicles Remain Popular During Economic Slowdown

Electric vehicle sales in Indonesia continue to surge despite economic headwinds, with wholesale deliveries reaching 14,815 units in April 2026—a 40 per cent monthly increase and 89.4 per cent year-on-year growth. According to Haka Auto CEO Hariyadi Kaimuddin, upper-middle-class consumers targeting electric vehicles maintain strong purchasing power, whilst rising fuel costs have made EV ownership increasingly attractive, with operating expenses falling from approximately 5 million rupiah to 600,000 rupiah monthly compared to conventional vehicles.

Western AI Models Accused of Assisting Iran's Cyber Attack Campaign

Western artificial intelligence models, including OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Gemini, are being accused by cybersecurity experts of enabling Iranian hacker groups to significantly enhance their cyber operations. Iranian threat actors are reportedly leveraging generative AI across their entire operational pipeline—from identifying security vulnerabilities to crafting convincing phishing campaigns in multiple languages targeting Israel, the United States, and other nations. Google's investigations have revealed that Iranian APT42 group has been using Gemini more intensively than hacker groups from North Korea, Russia, or China.

Why Are Israeli Citizens Among the World's Happiest Despite Ongoing Conflict?

Israel ranks eighth in the World Happiness Report 2026 despite ongoing military conflict, according to a CNBC Indonesia analysis. The report measures overall life evaluation based on factors including income, social support, life expectancy, freedom, and trust in institutions rather than short-term emotional states, with Israeli society's strong family and community bonds, social solidarity, and structural indicators such as healthcare quality and economic stability contributing significantly to the happiness ranking.

Horrifying Facts Revealed from Autopsy of Student Shot Dead by Friend

An autopsy on Mario Marselina Kura, a 24-year-old university student in Sumba Barat Daya, revealed that a pellet from an air rifle became lodged in the victim's heart after being shot by friend Alexander Bili Kandu. The fatal shooting occurred on 22 May in Weepangali village when the victim, in jest, reportedly asked the suspect to shoot him in the chest, which the suspect subsequently did.

Foreign Investors Withdraw Rp 8.52 Trillion from Stock Exchange; What Lies Ahead for IHSG This Week?

Foreign investors sold Rp 8.52 trillion worth of shares at the end of May 2026, largely driven by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) rebalancing. Market observers argue that clarity and consistency in economic policy are crucial for reversing the outflows and restoring investor confidence, as the Indonesian stock exchange faces headwinds from rupiah weakness, global interest rate uncertainty, and geopolitical risks.

Judicial Panel Composition Announced for Inaugural Hearing in MPR Quiz Competition Controversy Lawsuit

The Central Jakarta District Court held the inaugural hearing today in a lawsuit filed by advocate David Tobing against the Indonesian parliament (MPR) and officials involved in the controversial "Four Pillars Smart Quiz Competition" (LCC Empat Pilar) held in West Kalimantan. The plaintiff alleges unprofessional conduct and seeks the dismissal of two jurors, sanctions against the competition presenter, and public apologies, whilst the MPR states it will respect the judicial process and follow established civil service regulations in any potential disciplinary decisions.

Mobile Samsat Services Available at 14 Locations Across Greater Jakarta on Tuesday

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police Traffic Directorate is providing mobile Samsat (One-Stop Administrative System) services on Tuesday across 14 locations in Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi to assist motorists in paying their annual vehicle tax. The mobile services operate at various shopping centres, government offices, and police facilities during specified hours, requiring motorists to present identification cards, vehicle ownership documents, and registration certificates.

Crash! Gold Prices Plummet Again, Here's Why

Gold prices fell to their lowest level since 27 May 2026, dropping 1.1% to US$4,483.29 per troy ounce on Monday, driven by renewed Middle East tensions, a stronger US dollar at 99.2, and expectations that central banks will maintain tight monetary policy longer. The conflict between Iran and the United States has simultaneously raised oil prices and inflation concerns, making interest rate hikes more likely and reducing gold's appeal despite its traditional role as an inflation hedge. Analysts expect gold's downward pressure to continue unless bond yields stabilise and interest rates begin to fall, though central banks are anticipated to remain net buyers of gold in the coming year.

Wedding Organiser Marwah's Cheap Marriage Package Scam: Defrauded 58 Prospective Newlyweds, Owner a Recidivist

The owner of wedding organiser Marwah, Eka Rismayanti, has been arrested for allegedly defrauding 58 prospective newlyweds through a cheap wedding package scheme, with losses totalling billions of rupiah. Investigators revealed that Rismayanti is a recidivist with a prior conviction for similar fraud in West Java and had attempted to flee with her husband, Radiansyah Marwah. The scam operated on a Ponzi-like scheme where funds from new clients were diverted to cover debts and obligations from previous weddings, with authorities discovering the fraud pattern during their investigation.

Mobile Driving Licence Service Available at Five Jakarta Locations on Tuesday

The Metro Jaya Police Traffic Directorate is providing mobile driving licence (SIM Keliling) services at five locations across Jakarta on Tuesday to help residents renew their driving permits. The service operates from 08:00-14:00 WIB and covers SIM A and SIM C categories, with renewal fees of IDR 80,000 and IDR 75,000 respectively, requiring valid identification and health documentation.

Legal Developments Yesterday: Grenades Discovered and Pig Butchering Syndicate Arrested

Indonesian law enforcement agencies reported multiple significant cases on Monday (1 June), including the discovery of an active hand grenade at a World War II bomb explosion site in Biak, Papua, and the arrest of a 39-member online fraud syndicate involving 11 foreign nationals who targeted American citizens. Additionally, the KPK (Corruption Eradication Commission) scheduled the questioning of two parliamentary members suspected of misappropriating corporate social responsibility funds from Bank Indonesia and the Financial Services Authority, and scheduled detention of two suspects in a hajj quota corruption case.

Constitutional Court Ruling Compels Political Parties to Revise Recruitment Strategies for 2029 Elections

Indonesia's Constitutional Court decision imposing sanctions on political parties failing to meet a 30 per cent female candidate quota is expected to fundamentally reshape party recruitment strategies ahead of the 2029 elections. Legal experts argue the ruling elevates women's representation from a symbolic requirement to a strategic competitive factor, necessitating comprehensive regulatory adjustments across multiple levels and strengthening the General Elections Commission's enforcement authority. Political parties now face the prospect of losing nomination rights in electoral districts if they fail to meet female candidate quotas, creating incentives for sustained, merit-based development of female political cadres.

Expiry Period of 0.5% UMKM Income Tax Rate Officially Abolished, But Conditions Apply

President Prabowo Subianto has officially removed the expiry deadline for the 0.5% final personal income tax rate for SMEs through Government Regulation Number 20 of 2026, making it indefinite for individual taxpayers. However, the regulation maintains a four-year transitional period for certain corporate entities and introduces new compliance conditions, including prohibitions on deducting bribes and gratuities, whilst excluding certain income categories such as professional services and foreign-sourced income.

250 Homes and 330 Families Affected by Fire in Kebon Kosong, Kemayoran

A fire broke out in the densely populated Kebon Kosong area of Central Jakarta on Monday evening, affecting approximately 250 homes and 330 families. The government has established an emergency evacuation centre at Jusuf Hamka Field and initiated comprehensive data collection to identify vulnerable populations, including school-age children, whilst coordinating relief assistance through multiple agencies. Authorities are also preparing long-term solutions, including the possibility of relocation to safer housing, once the emergency phase concludes.

Following Meeting with RI 1 at the Palace, Qatar's Defence Minister to Visit Indonesia's Defence Ministry

Indonesia's President received Qatar's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan bin Ali Al Thani at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on 1 June 2026, reinforcing bilateral relations between the two nations. The meeting included discussion of a follow-up strategic dialogue framework previously signed between President Prabowo and Qatar's Emir in April 2025, with the Qatari delegation conveying a message from Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.

Sederhana Restaurant Opens in Singapore, Takes Over Historic Padang Rice Building

Indonesian padang restaurant chain Sederhana is opening its first outlet in Singapore's Kampong Glam area, occupying the historic location previously home to Warong Nasi Pariaman, which operated since 1948 before closing in January. This expansion marks Sederhana's continued international growth following earlier openings in Malaysia and planned expansion to Melbourne, Australia, whilst honouring a significant culinary heritage site.

Yesterday's Politics: Pancasila Foundation Day and Presidential Secretary Responds to Criticism

Multiple political events unfolded on Monday 1 June, including President Prabowo Subianto's address at the Pancasila Foundation Day commemoration, where he emphasised Pancasila as Indonesia's anchor amid global geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. The Presidential Secretary responded to criticism from former deputy foreign minister Dino Patti Djalal regarding Prabowo's overseas visits, stating the government welcomes input but warned against obscuring the achievements from the President's diplomatic missions. The day also saw a display of solidarity between President Prabowo and former President Megawati Soekarnoputri at the ceremony, whilst Prabowo expressed readiness to confront opposition from groups engaged in corruption and illegal economic practices that hamper national transformation.

Jakarta Transport Authority Urges Large Event Organisers to Coordinate Traffic and Parking Plans

The Jakarta Transport Authority (Dishub) has called on all large event organisers to coordinate with the department from the planning stage to ensure proper traffic management and parking arrangements. The appeal follows traffic congestion on HR Rasuna Said in South Jakarta during a music performance attended by approximately 10,000 people on 31 May, which the organisers had not coordinated with Dishub despite obtaining a police permit for the gathering.

Indonesian Red Cross Sets Up Two Emergency Shelters for Kemayoran Fire Victims in Central Jakarta

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) Jakarta Central has deployed two emergency tents at a designated evacuation site to accommodate residents affected by a major fire in the Kemayoran district that broke out on Monday evening, destroying approximately 250 homes and displacing 330 families. PMI is coordinating with Jakarta's Provincial Social Services to meet the logistical needs of evacuees whilst prioritising immediate emergency response and health monitoring, with trauma recovery efforts to follow at a later stage.

Palembang Police Apprehend Creator of AI Pocong Photo That Alarmed Residents

Palembang police have detained a 24-year-old content creator for producing and distributing artificially-generated images of a pocong (shrouded spirit) that sparked public panic on social media. The suspect admitted the images were AI-edited fabrications designed to deceive, highlighting emerging challenges with technology-enabled misinformation and the need for responsible digital content creation.

End of Bogor Man's Cash Withdrawal Fraud Scheme at Petrol Stations

Police have arrested a man from the Cileungsi area in Bogor, West Java, who perpetrated a cash withdrawal fraud scheme at petrol stations using forged transfer receipts and fake police licence plates. Investigations revealed the suspect had carried out the fraud approximately ten times over a two-month period, causing losses exceeding 2 million rupiahs, and even disguised himself as a high school student to deceive victims.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Reveals Seven Concrete Results from Prabowo's Foreign Visits

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has dismissed criticism of President Prabowo Subianto's frequent foreign visits, citing seven concrete achievements including Indonesia's entry into the BRICS economic alliance, a trade agreement with the European Union after 11 years of negotiations, and Rp 2.43 quadrillion in investments secured over 1.5 years. Additional accomplishments highlighted include defence cooperation agreements with multiple nations, a dedicated Indonesian residential complex for Hajj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, humanitarian aid to Palestine, and the diplomatic release of Indonesian nationals detained by Israel.

Electricity Bills Rising? Here's How to Check Your Power Consumption via PLN Mobile

Indonesian customers have complained about rising electricity bills on social media, prompting PT PLN to guide users on monitoring consumption through its PLN Mobile application. The app provides detailed usage history and payment records, with features like SwaCAM for manual meter reading, allowing both prepaid and postpaid customers to identify potential causes of increased bills and verify their accuracy.

The 30 Per Cent Female Candidate Quota Obligation Strengthens Affirmative Political Action

Indonesia's Constitutional Court decision to impose sanctions on political parties that fail to meet a 30 per cent female legislative candidate quota has been hailed by constitutional law experts as a progressive step in strengthening women's political affirmative action. However, experts warn that implementation will require sustained efforts in party cadre development and systemic support, with the quota now binding as a legal obligation rather than mere administrative formality.

Yogyakarta to Implement Vertical Housing to Restructure Slum Areas

The Yogyakarta City Government is advancing plans to reorganise slum areas and river embankments through vertical housing implementation, with Deputy Minister of Housing and Urban Settlements Fahri Hamzah visiting targeted sites in late May 2026. The restructuring of the Code River area is expected to cost approximately IDR 56 billion and will involve collaboration between government, communities, universities, businesses, and the Yogyakarta Palace, whilst creating public spaces and emergency access routes along the river.

AI Now Works as Debt Collector, Can Recover Debts More Politely Than Humans

Artificial intelligence chatbots are increasingly being deployed by debt collection companies in the United States to telephone customers with outstanding payments, with the technology capable of conducting natural conversations and offering flexible repayment options. These AI agents can adapt their language, accent, and tone based on customer profiles, detect emotional distress, and escalate calls to human representatives when necessary, whilst operating continuously without fatigue or anger.

Why Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims Are Prohibited from Carrying Zam-zam Water on Return Flights

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reiterated that hajj pilgrims must not attempt to carry zam-zam water in either cabin or checked luggage, as doing so violates international aviation regulations and can disrupt baggage screening at airports. The ministry assures that each Indonesian pilgrim will receive one gallon (5 litres) of zam-zam water per person upon arrival in Indonesia through an established official mechanism, eliminating the need for independent transport.

Responding to Dino's Criticism, Teddy Remarks: He Was Deputy Foreign Minister for Only Three Months

Cabinet Secretary Letkol Teddy Indra Wijaya has defended President Prabowo Subianto's frequent international travel as necessary for building strong relationships with world leaders amid global uncertainty. Teddy responded to criticism from former Deputy Foreign Minister Dino Patti Djalal, pointedly noting that despite Dino's diplomatic expertise, he only served as deputy foreign minister for approximately three months in 2014, implying limited diplomatic experience for his critique.

Trump Halts Planned Lebanon Attack as Netanyahu Defies, Iran Issues Strong Warning

US President Donald Trump has halted Israel's planned attack on Beirut after phone talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and indirect communications with Hezbollah. However, Israeli airstrikes continue in southern Lebanon. Lebanon's Washington embassy confirmed Netanyahu has accepted a draft agreement, with Trump also noting ongoing rapid talks with Iran.

New Policies and Regulations in June: Can IHSG and Rupiah Recover?

Indonesia has introduced new foreign exchange policies from 1 June, including a single-export channel for key commodities such as coal and palm oil, amid geopolitical tensions affecting oil prices. Analysts indicate markets remain cautiously optimistic about resolving US-Iran conflicts, with economic stability expected if hostilities do not escalate further.

Farewell Ryamizard: Stern General, Humble and Compassionate

Former Defence Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu has been laid to rest in a military funeral in Jakarta, remembered for his leadership during the Aceh tsunami response and his balanced approach as a firm yet compassionate leader. Tributes from former military chiefs highlight his decisive actions and mentorship, underscoring his significant impact on Indonesia's defence sector.

First Batch of 378 Hajj Pilgrims Arrives in Surabaya

The first batch of 378 Hajj pilgrims arrived in Surabaya, with one death before the pilgrimage and another hospitalised. The government's seamless corridor system has streamlined immigration and health checks, while insurance payouts for deceased pilgrims are being processed. Additional measures include repatriation via Jeddah, restrictions on Zamzam water, and regional arrivals across Indonesia.

Jakarta's Odd-Even Traffic Scheme Reinstated This Morning

Jakarta has reinstated its odd-even vehicle restriction scheme following a suspension for Pancasila Day. The policy operates in two daily slots, with enforcement on 25 major roads during peak hours to manage traffic congestion.

First Makassar Embarkation Hajj Group Returns Home

391 Hajj pilgrims from Makassar's first group have returned to Indonesia after completing their pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. Officials confirmed all are in good health and have been handed over to Soppeng Regency authorities, with praise for the central government's management of the annual religious event.

Residents' Panic as Kemayoran Fire Spreads to Multiple Homes

A fire in Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, was extinguished after seven hours of firefighting, affecting 250 homes and 330 households. Several residents were treated for smoke inhalation and minor injuries, with evacuations to Jusuf Hamka Field, though the cause remains unknown.

IHSG at Risk of Correction Ahead of May Inflation Data as Investors Watch DEWA, UNTR, BBCA, ANTM Shares

The Indonesian Stock Exchange Index (IHSG) faces potential correction as investors await May inflation data and a projected decline in April trade surplus. Analysts recommend monitoring DEWA, UNTR, BBCA, and ANTM shares, with technical support at 6,071 and resistance at 6,161. BRI Danareksa's Reza Diofanda noted a short-term bearish trend with key support between 5,900-6,000 and resistance at 6,200-6,285.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Responds to Dino Patti Djalal on President's Foreign Visits

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has addressed criticisms regarding President Prabowo Subianto's foreign trips, clarifying that any excess costs are personally covered by the President and delegation sizes have been significantly reduced. He stressed that these visits are essential for building diplomatic relationships amid global crises, with tangible results already achieved, countering claims of mere ceremonial showmanship.

ULM conducts mangrove growth monitoring in Tanah Laut

ULM has monitored the growth of mangroves planted in Tanah Laut, South Kalimantan, with an 80-90% survival rate. The assessment found most plants thriving despite some damage from weather conditions. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to ensure effective and sustainable mangrove conservation.

Jakarta Reinstates Odd-Even Traffic Rule Today, Violators Face Fines

Jakarta has reinstated its odd-even traffic rule after a one-day suspension for Pancasila's Birthday. The policy, active from 6am-10am and 4pm-9pm daily until Friday, imposes fines of up to Rp500,000 for violations. Authorities urge drivers to comply to avoid on-the-spot penalties.

Hajj Rituals Conclude as Pilgrims Prepare for Tawaf Ifadah and Sa'i

Indonesian Hajj pilgrims are finalising their rituals with Tawaf Ifadah and Sa'i, mandatory rites for Hajj validity. Authorities are providing special assistance to elderly and disabled pilgrims while repatriation operations began on June 22. The Ministry of Hajj has also enforced restrictions on carrying Zamzam water and urged health precautions.

Teddy Reveals Prabowo's Diplomatic Data: Rp2,430 Trillion Investment, Indonesia Joins BRICS, and 0% EU Tariffs

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has defended President Prabowo Subianto's frequent overseas visits, highlighting significant economic and diplomatic achievements. Key successes include Indonesia's entry into BRICS, securing zero-percent tariffs with the European Union, and attracting Rp2,430 trillion in investment.

Inauguration of Soekarno Statue at Indonesian Embassy in Rome: Symbol of Diplomacy and Pancasila

The Indonesian Embassy in Rome formally inaugurated a bronze statue of Indonesia's first president Soekarno at Wisma Duta on 1 June 2026, coinciding with Pancasila Day commemorations. Indonesian Ambassador Junimart Girsang emphasised that the statue symbolises Indonesia's diplomatic legacy and the nation's continued commitment to independent and active foreign policy principles established by Soekarno. The statue, created by a Yogyakarta-based UMKM art gallery, represents a tribute to national sovereignty and cultural diplomacy in Europe.