Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 June 2026

Showing 801-850 of 1,554 articles

Report Reveals US Allows Israel to Manage Gaza Reconstruction

A report indicates the United States has presented a document allowing Israel to oversee the reconstruction of Gaza without requiring Hamas to disarm first. The plan reportedly mandates Israel to permit infrastructure projects and the relocation of residents from Hamas-controlled areas. The proposal also includes provisions for a technocratic government headquarters and rebuilding the European Hospital in Gaza.

Setara Institute: Deploying Military Cadets to 'Sekolah Rakyat' is Dangerous

The Setara Institute has condemned the government's plan to involve military cadets in training students at Sekolah Rakyat, calling it a dangerous blurring of civilian and military boundaries. The institute argues that the programme requires a pedagogical and humanistic approach, not a militaristic one, and that discipline and patriotism should not be exclusively linked to the armed forces. It has urged the Prabowo administration to refrain from expanding the military's role into civilian education.

Kearney Indonesia Leverages Innovation to Help Industries Navigate Uncertainty

Global management consultancy Kearney Indonesia, marking 25 years of operation, is reinforcing its role in helping organisations, state-owned enterprises, and the government strengthen business strategies and drive sustainable digital transformation. President Director Shirley Santoso highlighted the firm's focus on assisting clients across various sectors in navigating business uncertainties. The consultancy is also leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance operational systems and workforce readiness.

Police to Name Suspects in Forced Disbandment of GMS Church Service in Bantul

The Yogyakarta Regional Police are preparing to name suspects in the case of a forced disbandment of a church service in Bantul last May. Authorities have questioned 31 witnesses and plan to apply Article 303 of the new Criminal Code, which specifically addresses the disruption of religious services. The incident, involving a community organisation, sparked public outcry on social media over religious intolerance.

Court Finds Nadiem's Special Staff Overstepped Authority in Laptop Procurement Case

A Jakarta Corruption Court has ruled that two special staff members of former Minister Nadiem Makarim exceeded their normative authority in a technology procurement case. The panel of judges stated that the placement of Jurist Tan and Fiona Handayani in influential operational roles was not coincidental but systematically designed. The court also highlighted the significant role given to a non-civil servant consultant in drafting technical specifications for the project.

Nadiem Makarim Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Chromebook Procurement Corruption, State Losses Reach Rp 1.5 Trillion

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim to 10 years in prison for corruption related to the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management (CDM) systems. The panel of judges ruled that Makarim's actions caused a definite state financial loss of Rp 1.5 trillion (approximately £75 million) between 2020 and 2022. In addition to the prison term, Makarim was fined Rp 1 billion and ordered to pay restitution of Rp 809 billion.

Thai Manufacturing Under Pressure, Car Production Plummets

Thailand's manufacturing sector contracted again in May, with the production index falling 0.8% year-on-year, driven by a sharp 17.94% slump in vehicle output. The decline was steeper than expected, though the government is maintaining its 2026 growth forecast of 1-2%, citing strong exports and economic stimulus measures. The central bank recently held interest rates steady and raised its economic growth projection to 2.3% on the back of robust export prospects.

Court Rejects Prosecutors' Demand for Nadiem Makarim to Pay Rp4.8 Trillion, Cites Incorrect Legal Avenue

The Jakarta Corruption Court has rejected a portion of prosecutors' demands for former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim to pay Rp4.8 trillion in restitution. The panel of judges clarified that the rejection was not due to a denial of alleged disproportionate wealth, but because the legal mechanism used by the prosecution was deemed inappropriate for this particular case. The court emphasised that efforts to recover state assets must adhere to the principles of legality, legal certainty, and proportionality.

Constitutional Court Rules Voluntary Pension Funds Can Be Disbursed as Lump Sum

Indonesia's Constitutional Court has ruled that participants in voluntary private pension schemes can now receive their benefits as a lump sum, not just in periodic payments. The decision partially granted a judicial review filed by eight workers who argued the mandatory periodic payment rule in the P2SK Law was unconstitutional. The court stated the provision is conditionally unconstitutional unless it allows lump sum payments for voluntary pensions derived from severance and long-service awards.

Police Open Possibility of Charging Taufik Hidayat in Other Cases

Indonesian police are investigating the possibility of filing additional charges against Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in the kidnapping and torture of a woman identified as YTR. Authorities have uncovered evidence suggesting he misappropriated the rights of others at his workplace. Police are also probing whether any accomplices assisted him while he was a fugitive.

Former Minister Dito Questioned for Four Hours Over Two New Private Sector Suspects in Hajj Case

Former Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo underwent a four-hour examination by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding the 2023-2024 hajj quota corruption case. The questioning focused on two new private sector suspects and the process of obtaining additional hajj quotas from the Saudi Arabian government. Dito's testimony is considered crucial as he was part of the Indonesian delegation during the meeting that secured the extra quota.

Cianjur Government Seeks Foreign Ministry Help to Repatriate Migrant Worker

The Cianjur Regency Government has requested assistance from Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs to repatriate a 43-year-old female migrant worker stranded in Libya. The worker, who departed illegally 14 months ago, reportedly changed employers 11 times and was never paid. Officials have urged residents to use legal channels for overseas employment to avoid similar exploitation.

National Police Chief and Environment Minister Attend Interfaith Prayer Ahead of Bhayangkara Day

The Indonesian National Police held an interfaith prayer gathering in Jakarta ahead of the 80th Bhayangkara Day on 1 July. The event, attended by National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo and Environment Minister Muhammad Jumhur Hidayat, was held simultaneously with police units nationwide. Themed 'Polri for the Community', the occasion also featured a religious lecture and donations to orphans.

National Commission on Disability Urges Comprehensive Handling in Alleged Torture Case of YTR

The National Commission on Disability (KND) has condemned the alleged prolonged torture and false imprisonment of a 29-year-old victim, YTR, calling for a comprehensive and disability-sensitive response. The commission warns the severe physical and mental abuse may have caused permanent disabilities and insists the state must ensure justice, recovery, and protection for the victim. KND has outlined six official stances, including urging law enforcement to conduct a swift, human rights-based investigation and demanding holistic medical and psychosocial rehabilitation services.

Bantul Slashes Entry Fees for Western Coastal Destinations to Rp5,000

The Bantul Regency Tourism Office has reduced the retribution fee for several western coastal destinations from Rp15,000 to Rp5,000 per person, effective 1 July 2026. Unlike the eastern beaches, the new tariff applies per individual destination rather than as a transferable pass. Officials hope the more affordable pricing will boost visitor numbers to the western coastal area.

How Generali Plans to Attract More Corporate and Young Clients

Generali Indonesia is targeting young workers and corporate clients to expand its life insurance business, according to President Director and CEO Rebecca Tan. As the first female leader of the company, she is also championing a greater role for women in the industry. The strategy focuses on product innovation and improving agent competency to boost market penetration.

Pramono Appreciates Collaboration with Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office to Resolve Asset Disputes

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has praised the collaboration with the Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office for resolving long-standing asset disputes and stalled strategic projects, including the Rasuna Said monorail. The partnership has also provided legal certainty for the Sumber Waras hospital land and facilitated the continuation of the LRT Velodrome-Manggarai route. The inauguration of a new North Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office building symbolises the strengthened cooperation between the provincial government and law enforcement.

Ciwaduk Subdistrict Initiates Corpse Washing Training to Improve Service Standards

The Ciwaduk Subdistrict government in Cilegon has launched a training programme for corpse washers (pemandi jenazah) to enhance their skills and provide legal certification. The initiative, supported by the Cilegon City Baznas, aims to standardise procedures according to Islamic law and address the shortage of trained personnel in the area.

Electronics Sales in Glodok Slump, Traders Warn Buildings Could 'Die'

The once-bustling Harco Glodok electronics market in Jakarta is experiencing a severe downturn, with drastically reduced footfall forcing many traders to shift their focus to online sales. Shop owners report that without e-commerce, the physical market would be dead, as they now rely heavily on loyal customers and online platforms to survive. The decline is attributed to the convenience and competitive pricing of online shopping, which has significantly impacted offline sales of items ranging from laptops to household appliances.

Sentenced to 10 Years in Chromebook Case, Nadiem to Appeal

Former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption related to the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management between 2020 and 2022. He was also ordered to pay Rp809 billion in restitution or face an additional five years in prison. Nadiem has declared he will appeal, calling the verdict illogical and stating he does not possess the funds demanded by the court.

Power Cuts Cause Industrial Performance to Slump

Indonesia's Industrial Confidence Index fell to 52.90 in June 2026, partly due to production disruptions caused by power outages. The Ministry of Industry also cited rising raw material costs and weakening purchasing power as key challenges, despite strong domestic demand and government spending programmes providing some support.

Indonesia's Annual Climate Spending Averages Rp73.5 Trillion

Indonesia's government has spent an average of Rp73.5 trillion annually on climate-related issues between 2018 and 2024, representing about 3% of the state budget. Officials acknowledge this is insufficient, as the country requires up to Rp800 trillion per year to meet its 2060 net-zero emissions target. The government is positioning public spending as a catalyst to de-risk investments and attract greater private sector participation in climate finance.

Judges Rule Nadiem Placed Special Staff Beyond Authority in Chromebook Procurement Case

A Jakarta Corruption Court panel has found former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim guilty of abusing his authority by assigning special staff to roles exceeding their legal remit in a school laptop procurement scandal. The judges highlighted that the staff, including Jurist Tan and Fiona Handayani, were given operational powers over senior officials and that an external consultant improperly influenced technical specifications. Nadiem was subsequently sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption related to the Chromebook and Chrome Device Management procurement.

Under Police Investigation, OJK Reveals Fraud Scheme Involving Watching Chinese Dramas

Indonesia's Task Force for the Eradication of Illegal Financial Activities (Satgas PASTI) has disclosed that a financial scam luring victims with part-time work watching Chinese dramas is now under police investigation. The scheme enticed participants to deposit funds by promising passive income and bonuses from the purported purchase of copyrights. Authorities have halted five related entities and are currently calculating the total number of victims and financial losses.

E-Commerce Tax Starts 1 July, DJP Confirms System Readiness

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has confirmed that its systems are fully prepared for the implementation of Income Tax Article 22 collection via e-commerce platforms, set to begin on 1 July 2026. The tax authority has intensified coordination with designated marketplaces, though it is still awaiting the issuance of a formal appointment decree for the platforms as tax collectors. The policy is based on existing Minister of Finance Regulation No. 37 of 2025 and aims to streamline tax collection from online merchants.

How Islamic Jurisprudence Guides Muslims Living as Minorities in Non-Muslim Countries

The growing number of Muslims living as minorities in non-Muslim nations has prompted a contextualised approach to Islamic jurisprudence known as fiqh al-aqalliyyat. This framework, championed by scholars like Yusuf al-Qaradawi, addresses practical challenges such as workplace conflicts with prayer times, the scarcity of halal food, and social integration with non-Muslim neighbours. It emphasises maintaining religious principles through wisdom and negotiation rather than isolation, allowing Muslims to contribute positively to their societies while preserving their faith.

Nusuk Travel Offers Visa Assistance and Exclusive Hajj & Umrah Promotions

Nusuk Travel is offering exclusive accommodation packages and streamlined visa services for pilgrims ahead of the upcoming Hajj and Umrah season. The agency aims to simplify the spiritual journey by integrating end-to-end visa assistance with hotel partnerships ranging from luxury Mövenpick stays to budget-friendly Olayan Hotel properties. Special integrated pilgrimage packages and a holiday season flash sale were highlighted at the recent International Islamic Expo 2026 in Jakarta.

HashMicro Solution Aims to Strengthen Industry Risk Management in the AI Era

HashMicro is positioning its digital solutions to help organisations navigate global uncertainty and currency fluctuations. The company emphasises that technology investment is crucial for improving efficiency, productivity, and cost reduction to bolster business resilience. Their ERP system is designed to identify risks and enhance operational visibility amid the evolving AI landscape.

More Economical: A Village Chief's Calculation of Growing Rice in Used Water Cooler Bottles vs. Paddy Fields

A village chief in Gunungkidul has demonstrated that growing rice in used water cooler bottles is significantly cheaper than purchasing and cultivating traditional paddy fields. Susanto, from Dukuh Ngelorejo, calculated that setting up 1,000 containers on a 10-square-metre plot costs around IDR 3 million, compared to IDR 15-20 million for buying equivalent farmland. His successful low-cost urban farming method, inspired by the local regent, is now being adopted by other residents in his village.

Court Rejects Rp 4.8 Trillion Asset Seizure from Nadiem, Urges AGO to Pursue Money Laundering Case

The Jakarta Corruption Court has rejected a prosecution demand for former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim to pay Rp 4.8 trillion in restitution, ruling the legal avenue chosen was incorrect. While sentencing Nadiem to 10 years in prison for corruption, the panel of judges recommended that the Attorney General's Office instead investigate the disproportionate assets through a money laundering case.

Questioning the Empowerment of Policy Analysts

Despite ongoing bureaucratic reforms, the role of Policy Analysts in Indonesia remains underutilised, with many professionals and their superiors misunderstanding the position's strategic value. The core issue lies not in the existence of the role itself, but in its implementation, where analysts are often relegated to administrative tasks rather than providing evidence-based recommendations. To address this, the article calls for strengthening professional identity, improving leadership literacy, and fostering an organisational culture that genuinely integrates analytical support into the decision-making process.

Judge States Nadiem Makarim's Corruption Was Planned, Structured, and Systematic, Leading to 10-Year Sentence

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim to 10 years in prison for corruption related to the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management. The panel of judges highlighted that the crime was meticulously planned, structured, and systematic, causing massive state losses and negatively impacting education in underdeveloped regions. The court also noted that Makarim, who was economically secure, had betrayed the government's anti-corruption commitment by abusing his authority instead of setting an example.

IHSG Plunges 3% Amid Thin Trading and Global Uncertainty

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell more than 3% on Tuesday, with trading volume remaining low as investors adopted a wait-and-see approach ahead of key global and domestic assessments. Market pressure was driven by foreign outflows, a weak rupiah, and concentrated liquidity in only a few stocks. Analysts cited concerns over the upcoming S&P review of Indonesia's market status and geopolitical tensions as factors dampening broader market participation.

Viral Video Shows Man Shouting Political Names While Being Detained at Duri Station

A video has gone viral showing a shirtless man shouting the names of political figures while being restrained by security officers at Duri Station in West Jakarta. The man, who was suspected to be under the influence of drugs, called out for Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) and President Prabowo Subianto as he was being removed from the premises. KAI Commuter confirmed the incident and apologised for the disruption to passengers.

Epidemiological Reflection on the Deaths of Five Prospective Cooperative Managers

The recent deaths of five participants in a government-backed cooperative manager training programme have prompted calls for a systematic epidemiological review. Rather than seeking to assign blame, the approach aims to identify contributing factors and strengthen safety protocols for future large-scale national development initiatives. The incident highlights the importance of integrating health surveillance and risk management into the design of such programmes.

France and Oman to Cooperate with Partners on Mine Clearance in Strait of Hormuz

France and Oman have agreed to collaborate with international partners to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to secure the vital maritime route. The announcement by President Emmanuel Macron follows a recent escalation in security threats in the area, including attacks on commercial vessels. The operation seeks to guarantee unconditional freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway.

The Story of David Wewe: Disguising as a Street Musician and Ustaz to Catch Criminals

Aiptu Dafit Rico Darmawan, known as David Wewe, shares his experiences leading the Klewang Team in Padang, West Sumatra, where he employs elaborate disguises to apprehend criminals. His team's rapid response to a violent robbery of an 84-year-old woman, solved within 24 hours, earned public praise. The police leadership commended his bravery and field tactics while emphasising the importance of maintaining professionalism and public trust.

Tangerang prepares special supervision scheme for students during school holidays

The Tangerang Regency government is formulating a special supervision scheme for junior high school students during the 2026 long holiday to prevent juvenile delinquency. The initiative involves strengthening coordination with schools and parents, emphasising the need for families to monitor their children's activities, companions, and curfews. Authorities will also reinforce the implementation of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025, which restricts digital platform access for children under 16.

Fire Engulfs Jatiwaringin Landfill in Tangerang, Thick Black Smoke Billows

A major fire broke out at the Jatiwaringin final disposal site in Tangerang, Banten, on Tuesday afternoon, sending thick black smoke into the sky. The local disaster mitigation agency has deployed six fire engines and 30 personnel to tackle the blaze, which is proving difficult to contain as the flames are concentrated in the centre of large waste piles. The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage remain under investigation.

Indonesia to Mark 80th Bhayangkara Day on July 1, 2026

Indonesia will commemorate the 80th anniversary of Bhayangkara Day on 1 July 2026, celebrating the establishment of the National Police. The milestone coincides with several other international observances, including Canada Day and the independence days of Burundi and Ghana.

Economic census to form basis of South Jakarta development for next decade

The South Jakarta administration has stated that the 2026 economic census will serve as the foundation for the region's development planning over the next ten years. Mayor Syafrin Liputo emphasised the critical need for accurate data to ensure evidence-based policymaking. Census officers will conduct door-to-door surveys, and the public is urged to participate actively to support long-term planning.

Former Condongcatur Village Head Reno Detained in Rp 1.7 Billion Village Land Corruption Case

Reno Candra Sangaji, the former head of Condongcatur village in Sleman, has been detained by the Yogyakarta Special Region Police over the alleged misappropriation of village treasury land. The suspect is accused of illegally leasing the land without the governor's permission, causing state losses of Rp 1.74 billion. He faces charges under Indonesia's anti-corruption law.

Indonesia Seeks Deeper Economic Ties With Russia as Trade Reaches $5 Billion

Indonesia is actively pursuing deeper economic cooperation with Russia, with bilateral trade reaching $5 billion in 2025. The government is focusing on expanding trade, investment, and tourism links, including capitalising on direct flights between Moscow and Bali. This outreach reflects Jakarta's 'free and active' foreign policy, maintaining pragmatic engagement with Moscow to secure supplies of energy, fertiliser, and wheat despite ongoing geopolitical tensions.

National Police Chief Officially Promotes Four Generals to Commissioner General

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has officially promoted four high-ranking officers to the rank of Commissioner General (Komjen). The ceremony, held at Police Headquarters in Jakarta, recognizes their dedication and aims to strengthen the institution's leadership. The newly promoted three-star generals are expected to enhance the police force's service to the public.

Nadiem Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Chromebook Corruption Case

Former Indonesian Education Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim has been sentenced to a decade in prison for his role in a corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops. The Jakarta Corruption Court found his actions were premeditated and systematic, causing massive state losses and harming students in underdeveloped regions. The panel of judges noted his abuse of power as a minister, though they acknowledged his previous clean record and contributions to educational innovation as mitigating factors.

Kemendagri's Agus Fatoni Unanimously Elected Chairman of IKAPTK

Agus Fatoni, Director General of Regional Finance at the Ministry of Home Affairs, has been unanimously elected as Chairman of the Ikatan Keluarga Alumni Pendidikan Tinggi Kepamongprajaan (IKAPTK) for the 2026–2031 period. The election took place during an extraordinary national congress at the IPDN campus in Jatinangor, Sumedang. Fatoni, a founding figure of the organisation, pledged to strengthen the alumni network which boasts over 43,000 members across Indonesia's government institutions.

Pre-Order: Contemporary Commerce in an Islamic Perspective

The pre-order system, a common feature of modern digital commerce, is examined through the lens of Islamic jurisprudence. Scholars generally permit pre-orders provided they adhere to Sharia principles, including clear contracts, specific product details, and agreed delivery times. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has also issued recommendations to ensure such transactions avoid uncertainty and protect both buyers and sellers.

OJK-UNODC Boosts Cooperation to Combat Online Scams in Southeast Asia

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) are strengthening regional cooperation to tackle increasingly complex and transnational online scams. The initiative, discussed at a Jakarta meeting, aims to enhance financial intelligence, anti-money laundering regulations, and cross-border law enforcement. The collaboration seeks to protect the integrity of the financial system and improve victim fund recovery across Southeast Asia.

China's Cultural Industry Revenue Surpasses 20 Trillion Yuan in 2025

China's cultural industry and related sectors achieved record operating revenues of nearly 20.83 trillion yuan in 2025, marking an 8.8 per cent year-on-year increase. Growth was driven by double-digit surges in creative design and content production, while emerging business models significantly outperformed the broader industry. Investment in research and development by major cultural enterprises also saw robust growth, rising 12.1 per cent.

Coordinating Minister Muhaimin Stresses Education Access Must Reach 3T Villages to Accelerate Community Empowerment

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar has emphasised that expanding educational access to underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) villages is a strategic move to accelerate community empowerment. The initiative was marked by the launch of a scholarship programme for 500 community empowerment cadres in collaboration with Universitas Siber Asia. The government aims to leverage digital technology and distance learning to ensure rural youth can pursue higher education without leaving their communities.