Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 June 2026

Showing 751-800 of 1,554 articles

E-Commerce Association Awaits Official Marketplace Tax Rules, Government Prepares VAT Collection Mechanism

The Indonesian E-Commerce Association (idEA) is awaiting formal written regulations from the Directorate General of Taxes regarding the technical implementation of VAT collection on marketplace platforms. The government has signalled that the new mechanism could commence on 1 July 2026, with platforms expected to be given a one-month adjustment period once the rules are finalised. idEA supports the policy in principle but stresses the need for clear technical guidance and adequate socialisation to sellers.

Geopolitical Tensions and Interest Rates Shake Commodity Futures

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continue to cause volatility in commodity markets, particularly affecting oil and gold futures. Agrodana Futures Director Tommy Zhu noted that while gold prices typically surge during conflicts, they have recently weakened due to rising interest rates, alongside a correction in oil prices driven by peace prospects.

Pelalawan Police Process Crime Scene of Elephant Indro's Death in Tesso Nilo

Police in Pelalawan, Riau, are conducting a crime scene investigation into the death of a Sumatran elephant named Indro at Tesso Nilo National Park. The investigation employs scientific crime scene methods, including forensic analysis and sampling, to determine the cause of death. Indro, a key member of the park's Flying Squad for mitigating human-wildlife conflict, died suddenly after experiencing a drastic physical change, prompting an outpouring of grief from conservationists and the regional police chief.

Chilli Prices Soar in Batam, Dampening Traditional Market Activity

The price of bird's eye chilli in Batam's traditional markets has surged to between Rp70,000 and Rp100,000 per kilogram, leading to a noticeable decline in consumer purchasing activity. Households and small food businesses are reducing their purchases or seeking alternatives as supply constraints and high logistics costs drive up prices. Market vendors and buyers alike are hoping for government intervention to stabilise supplies and ease the financial burden.

Indonesia's Energy Resilience Index Rises to 7.13 in 2025

Indonesia's energy resilience index has improved to 7.13 in 2025, up from 6.74 the previous year, according to the National Energy Council (DEN). The increase reflects progress across availability, accessibility, affordability, and sustainability metrics. However, officials cautioned that escalating global geopolitical tensions could pose significant challenges to maintaining this momentum in 2026.

Jasindo Expands ESG Programme, Empowers 200 MSMEs Across Indonesia

State-owned insurer PT Asuransi Jasindo is transforming its corporate social responsibility into an integrated Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy. The initiative has already reached over 5,000 beneficiaries and empowered 200 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in 10 locations. The company aims to position itself as a pioneer in risk mitigation that also supports green economic development and community resilience.

Judge's Calculation Basis for Ordering Nadiem to Pay Rp 809 Billion

Former Education Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim has been sentenced to pay Rp 809.5 billion in restitution after being found guilty of corruption. The court determined that Nadiem orchestrated a policy mandating Chromebook procurement to benefit Google, which subsequently led to a significant investment in his own company, PT Aplikasi Karya Anak Bangsa. The judge ruled that the causal chain from the corrupt policy to the financial gain for Nadiem's corporate ecosystem was clearly established.

Construction of Hospital on Former Sumber Waras Land to Begin August 2026

The Jakarta provincial government has announced that construction of an international-standard hospital on the former Sumber Waras site in West Jakarta will commence in August 2026. Governor Pramono Anung confirmed that all legal issues surrounding the land purchase have been fully resolved after 14 years. The development on the 3.6-hectare plot can now proceed without hindrance.

Anatomy of Lawfare and the Illusion of Energy Stability

The article analyses the global energy market following a hypothetical 2026 US-Iran deal that allows Iranian crude oil to re-enter international markets, causing a sharp drop in prices. It argues that the price decline is not solely due to geopolitical détente but also stems from slowing Chinese demand and a paradigm shift where AI computing power is becoming a rival 'new oil' asset class. For Indonesia, a net oil importer, this presents a complex macroeconomic puzzle of potential fiscal relief intertwined with the risks of a weakening global economy.

KAI Launches IP Contest 2026 with Rp50 Million Prize for New Identity Creative Works

State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has announced the IP Contest by KAI 2026, inviting Indonesian citizens to submit creative works that can shape the company's new identity. The competition offers a top prize of Rp50 million and aims to strengthen KAI's connection with the public through fresh, creative, and generationally relevant expressions. Submissions are open from 21 June to 26 July 2026 via the official contest website.

Specialist Child Snatcher Arrested in Kalideres, Stolen Phones Sold for Methamphetamine

Police in West Jakarta have arrested a man who specialised in snatching mobile phones from children. The suspect, identified as AA alias Pitex, admitted to committing the crime over a dozen times, specifically targeting minors playing outside their homes. He reportedly sold the stolen phones to fund his methamphetamine habit.

Kortas Tipikor Polri Names Four Suspects in Alleged Fuel Sales Corruption Case

The Indonesian National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has named four suspects in a graft case involving non-cash fuel sales between Pertamina subsidiaries. The alleged corruption occurred between 2009 and 2012, with investigators having seized Rp 2.3 billion in cash as part of asset recovery efforts. The suspects include former high-ranking officials from PT Pertamina Patra Niaga and a director from PT Asmin Koalindo Tuhup.

Three Rehabilitated Bornean Orangutans Released into East Kalimantan Forest

Three Bornean orangutans, named Bagus, Eboni, and Ruby, have been released into a protected forest in East Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan. The release was a collaborative effort between the East Kalimantan Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA), the Centre for Orangutan Protection (COP), and other stakeholders. Post-release monitoring indicates the orangutans are active and adapting well, with staff observing them for three months to ensure their survival.

Trump and Pezeshkian Clash Over Iran Denuclearisation Claims

US President Donald Trump has claimed Iran agreed to denuclearisation ahead of talks in Doha, a statement swiftly contradicted by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Pezeshkian insisted no new agreement exists and that Tehran's compliance depends on Washington honouring its existing commitments. The conflicting statements highlight persistent tensions as officials from both nations prepare to meet.

Changan Opens Pre-Orders for Deepal S05, Starting from IDR 500 Million

Changan has officially opened pre-orders for the Deepal S05 in Indonesia, marking the debut of Range Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) technology in the country. The compact SUV, available in both BEV and REEV variants, is priced starting from IDR 500 million. The first 500 customers will receive exclusive benefits worth up to IDR 20 million.

Cirebon's 'Sekolah Rakyat' Features Gateway Blending Local Culture

The Ministry of Public Works is incorporating Cirebon Sultanate architecture into the design of a new 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School) in Cirebon Regency, featuring a traditional 'Candi Bentar' gateway. Minister Dody Hanggodo stated the school, built to international standards, is part of President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to providing high-quality education and boarding facilities for underprivileged children to break the cycle of extreme poverty. The contractor, PT Brantas Abipraya, is accelerating construction on the 5.4-hectare site to ensure the complex, which includes dormitories and labs, is functional for the new academic year.

Dual Listing Strengthens Global Funding Access for Indonesian Mining Issuers

The dual listing of PT Merdeka Gold Resources (EMAS) on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange is seen as a positive signal for Indonesia's mining industry, enhancing access to global funding and boosting international investor confidence. Analysts believe the move validates the company's asset quality and governance standards, potentially improving the investment image of Indonesian firms. The listing is expected to secure long-term capital for projects like the Pani Gold Mine while minimising delays through assured funding.

Meta Reveals How Online Gambling Syndicates Evade Detection on Instagram

Meta has detailed the sophisticated methods online gambling operators use to avoid detection on its platforms, including using benign keywords and inserting links in comment sections. The company stressed that tackling this cross-border issue requires close collaboration with Indonesian authorities such as the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) and law enforcement. Minister Meutya Hafid announced the formation of a joint team with platforms to specifically address the recent surge in gambling spam across social media.

Puan Maharani Calls for Thorough Investigation into Alleged Intimidation of Doctor by TTU Legislators

House Speaker Puan Maharani has demanded a comprehensive investigation into the alleged intimidation of a doctor by members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives. The doctor, Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, died after reportedly being intimidated while treating a snakebite patient. Puan stressed that such bullying of healthcare workers must not be tolerated and that the legal process should be completed regardless of the political status of the accused.

Aggravating and Mitigating Factors in Nadiem Makarim's Chromebook Corruption Verdict

The Jakarta Corruption Court detailed the aggravating and mitigating factors before sentencing former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim in the Chromebook procurement corruption case. The panel of judges highlighted the systematic nature of the crime, the substantial state losses, and the betrayal of public trust as key aggravating circumstances. Conversely, his lack of prior convictions and cooperative demeanour during the trial were considered mitigating factors.

1.15 Million Discounted Train Tickets Booked for School Holiday Period, KAI Reports Strong Intercity and Agglomeration Mobility

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has reported that 1.15 million of the 1.17 million available discounted train tickets for the school holiday period have been booked, representing a 98.4 percent occupancy rate. The government's 30 percent transportation discount programme, running from 20 June to 5 July 2026, has driven significant mobility, particularly on intercity routes between Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Semarang, Solo, and Surabaya, as well as on agglomeration services. KAI noted that while total passenger volume is at 87 percent of the previous year's level, the discount programme has been crucial in supporting public travel planning and maintaining economic activity during the holiday season.

Bank Raya Encourages Students and MSMEs to Be More Productive

Bank Raya, a digital banking arm of BRI Group, is advancing financial literacy among students and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through its 'Inspiraya' programme. The initiative focuses on promoting financial wellness in the digital era, teaching participants to manage personal and business finances separately using the bank's digital features. The programme has reached over 50,000 participants through more than 40 content pieces in 2026.

Agriculture Minister Appreciates Public Trust in Police at 82.4%, Hopes for Strengthened Synergy

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has welcomed a Kompas Litbang survey showing public trust in the Indonesian National Police (Polri) rising to 82.4%. He expressed hope that this improved standing will further strengthen collaboration between his ministries and the police force. The synergy is aimed at supporting national development and maintaining sustainable food self-sufficiency.

West Java Council pushes for equal distribution of senior high schools across all districts

The West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is urging the provincial government to accelerate the construction of senior high schools (SMA) and vocational schools (SMK) in sub-districts that currently lack them. Approximately 114 sub-districts in West Java still do not have a state secondary school, forcing students to travel to other areas. Legislators argue that equitable access to education is crucial for improving human resources and reducing regional disparities.

Nongsa NDP Project Induction Data Records Chinese Workers

Safety induction documents from the Nongsa Digital Park project in Batam have revealed the presence of Chinese nationals in various technical and managerial roles. While the immigration office states the data is from 2024, the findings have prompted calls for clarification regarding the compliance of foreign worker administration and permits. Separately, a local subcontractor claims it has not been paid IDR 3.4 billion for work completed using Indonesian labour.

Judge Rules Google Benefited from Nadiem Makarim's Alleged Corruption in Chromebook Procurement

A Jakarta corruption court has found that Google gained economic benefits through strategic investments linked to former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim during a digitalisation project. The presiding judge highlighted that meetings between Makarim and Google executives went beyond standard public-private interactions. The court noted that Google's investment in PT Aplikasi Karya Anak Bangsa (AKAB) totalled nearly 787 million US dollars during the period in question.

Lemhannas to Train 110 Participants in National Vigilance and Geopolitics

The National Resilience Institute (Lemhannas) has commenced a five-and-a-half-month leadership programme for 110 participants from the military, police, civil service, and community organisations. The curriculum will focus on geopolitics, geoeconomics, national defence, and national vigilance. The programme aims to equip future leaders with a comprehensive understanding of Indonesia's strategic environment.

Pupuk Indonesia Relies on '7T' Principle to Support Food Self-Sufficiency Programme

State-owned fertiliser producer Pupuk Indonesia is reinforcing its commitment to the government's food self-sufficiency drive by adhering to a '7T' principle to ensure accurate distribution. The company reports that a new presidential regulation has streamlined access, with fertiliser already available in over 26,000 kiosks nationwide since the start of the year. This policy shift has contributed to a 13% year-on-year increase in fertiliser uptake, correlating with an 11-13% rise in corn and rice production.

Aggravating Factors in Nadiem's 10-Year Sentence: Planned and Systematic Actions

The Jakarta Corruption Court sentenced former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim to 10 years in prison for corruption in a laptop procurement scheme. The judge cited the planned and systematic nature of the crime, which caused massive state losses and harmed education in underdeveloped regions. A dissenting opinion from one judge argued the charges were not proven and Nadiem should have been acquitted.

Insurance Service Performance Exceeds Targets Driven by Transformation and Efficiency

PT Asuransi Tri Pakarta (TRIPA) reported a strong financial performance for the 2025 fiscal year, with insurance service revenue reaching Rp1.57 trillion, surpassing its target by 31.7 per cent. The company also recorded significant growth in net underwriting results and investment income, reflecting robust financial health. Management attributed the success to enhanced corporate governance, operational efficiency, and an accelerated digital transformation strategy.

Generali Indonesia CEO Rebecca Tan Champions Women's Leadership and Growth in Life Insurance

Rebecca Tan, the first female President Director and CEO of Generali Indonesia, is optimistic about the life insurance sector's prospects, citing low penetration and a large potential market. She is actively promoting the role of women leaders while targeting service improvements and product innovation. The company aims to enhance agent competency to better serve its customer base, which includes over 400,000 individual and corporate clients.

Tax Office to Review JHT Tax, Rp50 Million Threshold May Change

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes is considering a review of the income tax imposed on Old Age Security (JHT) payouts, including the current Rp50 million threshold for a 0% tax facility. The evaluation may lead to adjustments in the tax-free limit or the applicable tax rate, following protests from labour groups. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has pledged a thorough investigation to ensure any tax relief does not disproportionately benefit high-income earners.

Dito Ariotedjo Reveals 40 kg Weight Loss After Leaving Ministerial Post

Former Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo disclosed a 40 kg weight loss following his departure from office, attributing it to a disciplined diet and exercise regime. He made the comments after undergoing questioning by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding a new investigation into a private sector suspect linked to a hajj quota case. Dito stated he was questioned about the process of granting additional hajj quotas during a meeting in Saudi Arabia.

RHB Sekuritas Sees IPO Prospects Amid Global Pressures

RHB Sekuritas Indonesia's director, Michael W. Setjoadi, discussed the outlook for the Indonesian stock market, which is facing a 31% year-to-date decline and currency depreciation. Despite these challenges, the market is preparing to welcome six new issuers in July 2026, with RHB Sekuritas itself handling one or two upcoming IPOs in the promising mining sector.

Japan Launches Cross-Ministry Panel to Screen Foreign Investment

Japan has established a new cross-ministry committee, the Japan Foreign Investment Committee (JFIC), to strengthen the screening of foreign investments and prevent the leakage of critical technologies. The body, modelled after the US Committee on Foreign Investment, was formed following a revision to the foreign exchange law. It aims to enhance inter-agency information sharing and will involve key ministries including Finance, Foreign Affairs, and Defence.

KAI's Adi Soemarmo Airport Train Sees 24.9% Passenger Growth in First Five Months of 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reported that its Adi Soemarmo Airport train service (KA BIAS) carried 375,032 passengers from January to May 2026, a 24.9% increase compared to the same period last year. The service has evolved beyond airport access to become a vital agglomeration transport link connecting Solo, Sragen, Ngawi, Magetan, and Madiun. KAI highlighted the service's role in supporting equitable public transport access and local economic activity across Central and East Java.

Tala Regent prioritises public services amid regional fiscal pressures

The Regent of Tanah Laut, Rahmat Trianto, has instructed all regional apparatus to prioritise public service delivery as the district faces potential fiscal constraints. He highlighted that 39 other regencies are already struggling to meet financial obligations, including salary payments. The regent stressed the need for budget efficiency, particularly by cutting non-essential spending such as official travel and ceremonial activities, to maintain essential services.

Home Renovation for Hari Bhayangkara: Deputy Police Chief Hands Over New House to Elderly Man

As part of the 80th Hari Bhayangkara (Indonesian Police Day) celebrations, the Indonesian National Police conducted a home renovation program for underprivileged citizens. Deputy Police Chief Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo personally handed over a newly renovated, energy-efficient house to an 85-year-old man named Usin in Bogor, West Java. The initiative, which renovated 80 homes nationwide, aims to provide decent housing and includes features like solar panels.

West Java Crafts in High Demand, PKJB 2026 Records IDR 54 Billion in Transactions

The West Java Craft Week (PKJB) 2026 saw a significant surge in sales, recording IDR 54 billion in transactions, a sharp increase from the previous year. The event also attracted 97,000 visitors and facilitated export deals, with bank financing reaching IDR 1.8 billion for local artisans. The Deputy Governor encouraged artisans to leverage cultural heritage to compete on national and international stages.

Kortastipidkor Names Four Suspects in Pertamina Fuel Sales Corruption Case

The Indonesian National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortastipidkor) has named four suspects in a corruption case involving fuel sales between PT Pertamina Patra Niaga and PT Asmin Koalindo Tuhup. The case, spanning 2009 to 2012, centres on a non-cash payment scheme that was allegedly altered to benefit the private company, resulting in unpaid obligations. The state audit agency estimates the resulting financial loss to the state at approximately 30.37 million US dollars, or around Rp486 billion.

Ruben Onsu Praises 2026 Hajj Services as More Organised and Family-Oriented

Indonesian celebrity Ruben Onsu has commended the significant improvements in the organisation of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, noting that services are now more structured and professional. He highlighted the enhanced performance of Hajj officers, describing their approach as more conceptually driven and warmer, with a stronger sense of family. Onsu made the remarks while performing umrah in Madinah, where he observed the ongoing Hajj operations.

Analyst: Poultry Sector Profitability Improves with Free Nutritious Meal Programme

An analyst from Mirae Asset Sekuritas predicts that Indonesia's poultry sector profitability will improve, driven by the government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. The programme is expected to boost chicken demand and reduce culling, while government investment in infrastructure like slaughterhouses and cold storage aims to stabilise supply and prices. Despite a projected 5% annual increase in per capita chicken consumption, Indonesia still lags behind neighbouring countries such as Malaysia and Vietnam.

Nellava Bullion Builds New Generation Bullion Distribution Network in Indonesia

Nellava Bullion has launched an 'One Province, One Official Distributor' programme to expand access to gold and silver bars across Indonesia. The initiative aims to create a professional, nationwide distribution ecosystem by partnering with experienced local businesses. The company will manage buybacks centrally, allowing provincial distributors to focus on developing their regional markets.

South Jakarta Administration Provides Aid to Family of Child Who Fell into Project Hole

The South Jakarta city administration has provided assistance to the family of a four-year-old boy who died after falling into a construction hole at a multifunctional field project in Manggarai, Tebet. The child was trapped for approximately four hours before being rescued alive but later died en route to the hospital. Local officials stated that the project, funded by corporate social responsibility, began on 25 June and that police are currently investigating the incident.

Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison, Nadiem Makarim Files an Appeal

Former Indonesian Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption related to the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management. Makarim has declared his intention to appeal the verdict, framing it as a fight for truth and justice. The court also imposed a fine of Rp1 billion, with a subsidiary sentence of 190 days imprisonment if the fine remains unpaid.

National Police Promote 87 High-Ranking Officers, Four Achieve Commissioner General Rank

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has promoted 41,578 personnel, including 87 high-ranking officers (Pati). Four of these officers were elevated to the rank of Commissioner General (Komjen), the force's three-star rank. The promotions are described as a recognition of dedication and a mandate to enhance public service.

President Prabowo to Inaugurate 50% Biodiesel Mandate (B50) in Early July 2026

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to launch Indonesia's mandatory B50 biodiesel programme, which requires a 50% blend of palm oil-based fuel in diesel, in early July 2026. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has issued a ministerial decree formalising the mandate, which will take effect on 1 July 2026. A three-month transition period until 30 September 2026 will allow fuel retailers to deplete existing B40 stocks.

DPR Urges Indonesia to Shift Focus from Investment MoUs to Project Realisation

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for a paradigm shift in evaluating investment success, arguing that the numerous MoUs signed with partner countries are insufficient without tangible project implementation. The legislator highlighted that while Indonesia has attracted approximately US$175 billion in investment commitments, bureaucratic hurdles and regulatory uncertainty continue to hinder realisation. He urged the government to learn from countries like South Korea and Vietnam, which have succeeded through strong institutional coordination and a results-oriented approach.

Pegadaian Sends Talented Staff for Master's Studies at Top Global Universities

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian is dispatching seven of its best employees to pursue master's degrees at leading universities in the UK and Australia. The initiative is part of the company's human capital investment strategy to develop future leaders with global business insights. The selected employees will study fields including financial law, information technology, and environmental management.

Nadiem Sentenced to 10 Years, Judge Reveals Chromebook Corruption Caused Rp 1.5 Trillion State Loss

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced former Education Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim to 10 years in prison for his role in a corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebooks. The panel of judges validated a BPKP audit that found the misuse of authority resulted in a definitive state loss of Rp 1.56 trillion. The court rejected the defence's challenge to the auditor's competence, affirming the investigative methodology was sound.