Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 June 2026

Showing 851-900 of 1,554 articles

Case File Complete, Murderer of Cilegon PKS Politician's Child to Stand Trial Soon

Prosecutors have declared the case file for the murder of a Cilegon PKS politician's child complete, paving the way for the suspect's immediate trial. The suspect, identified as Heru Anggara, faces multiple charges under the new Criminal Code and Child Protection laws. The case, which involved fatal violence against a child, had previously drawn widespread public attention in Cilegon.

Indonesia's Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices Potentially Set to Fall or Hold in July 2026

Non-subsidised fuel prices in Indonesia could decrease or remain unchanged on 1 July 2026, driven by a significant drop in global crude oil prices. The easing of geopolitical tensions following a US-Iran peace deal has reduced the risk premium on oil, although a relatively stable but weak rupiah continues to influence the final price formula. The government previously delayed raising Pertamax prices, suggesting they may now be adjusted downwards or held steady to reflect the lower cost of imports.

Nadiem Makarim Sentenced to 10 Years, Fined Rp1 Billion, and Ordered to Pay Rp809 Billion in Restitution

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption related to the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management (CDM). The Jakarta Corruption Court also imposed a Rp1 billion fine and ordered him to pay Rp809.597 billion in restitution. Failure to pay the financial penalties will result in the seizure of assets and additional prison time.

Choose Your Dining Spot, Protect Your Health

An opinion piece highlights the importance of choosing dining establishments based on cleanliness to prevent foodborne illnesses. It references Minister of Health Regulation No. 14 of 2021, which sets hygiene and sanitation standards for food businesses, and offers practical tips for consumers to assess a restaurant's cleanliness before eating.

Trump Claims Iran Agreed Not to Develop Nuclear Weapons

US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran has agreed to denuclearisation ahead of high-level talks in Doha. The assertion was made during a press briefing at the White House, though Tehran has previously denied any plans for such a meeting. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated the country's long-standing position that it has no intention of building nuclear arms.

Malaysia Launches Digital Action Plan to Boost AI Development

Malaysia has unveiled its Malaysia Digital 2030 blueprint, aiming to increase the digital economy's contribution to GDP to 30 percent and create 500,000 high-value jobs by the end of the decade. The plan, launched by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, positions the Ministry of Digital as the lead agency to transform the country into an AI-driven nation. It also targets 4.5 billion ringgit in public sector savings through government digitalisation.

UPJ and University of Greenwich Develop Future Education Model Based on Sustainable Urban Living

Universitas Pembangunan Jaya (UPJ) and the University of Greenwich are collaborating to design a future-oriented higher education model focused on sustainable urban living. Supported by a British Council grant, the partnership involves co-designing a project-based curriculum that integrates industry and community engagement to address real-world urban challenges. The initiative aims to equip students with practical, cross-disciplinary skills needed to navigate technological disruption and climate change.

Dissecting the Transformation of Subsidised Fertiliser to Support Food Self-Sufficiency

The Indonesian government is streamlining subsidised fertiliser distribution through regulatory reform to bolster food self-sufficiency. Presidential Regulation No. 6/2025 consolidates 145 previous rules into three, cutting bureaucratic hurdles and reducing the cost of goods sold by 20 per cent. Officials from the Coordinating Ministry for Food and PT Pupuk Indonesia highlight that the new system, which includes a '7T' principle, has already accelerated distribution and contributed to a 13 per cent increase in fertiliser uptake.

Indonesian Govt Assures No Increase in KUR Interest Rates

The Indonesian government has confirmed that interest rates for the People's Business Credit (KUR) programme will remain at 6% despite Bank Indonesia's recent benchmark rate hike, with the difference covered by state subsidies. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto also announced an expansion of housing-related KUR allocations and a planned reduction in PNM Mekaar loan rates to 8%. These measures are part of broader efforts to maintain affordable financing access for small businesses and encourage their graduation to larger-scale credit facilities.

Rupiah Weakens 0.22%, US Dollar Closes Higher at Rp17,875

The Indonesian rupiah weakened 0.22% against the US dollar, closing at Rp17,875 on Tuesday, snapping a three-day strengthening streak. The decline occurred amid global dollar strength as markets await key US employment data. Domestically, the government and Bank Indonesia are coordinating to maintain economic stability, with the fiscal deficit remaining manageable at 0.7% of GDP as of May 2026.

KPK: Yaqut Has Undergone Medical Treatment at Police Hospital

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, a suspect in the alleged hajj quota corruption case, has received medical treatment at the Police Hospital. The former Minister of Religious Affairs was previously granted a stay of detention due to health issues. Investigators are monitoring his condition and hope for his swift recovery so the legal process can resume.

Nusa Mandiri University Hands Over Website to Cipinang Melayu PKK to Boost Digital Transformation and Family Economic Empowerment

Nusa Mandiri University (UNM) has delivered a website to the Family Welfare Empowerment (PKK) group in Cipinang Melayu, East Jakarta, as part of a community service programme. The platform is designed to modernise administrative management, document activities, and support the Family Income Improvement Programme (UP2K). The initiative, funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, aims to create a more transparent and integrated governance system for the local organisation.

BNI strengthens business transformation on 80th anniversary momentum

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is leveraging its 80th anniversary to reinforce its ongoing business transformation, which has strengthened its financial performance and competitiveness. The state-owned bank reported a net profit of Rp20 trillion in 2025 and continues to see positive results into 2026, driven by digital innovation and wholesale banking enhancements. BNI aims to use its stronger fundamentals to deliver greater value for shareholders and support Indonesia's long-term economic growth.

China's Meituan says new AI model trained on domestic chips

Chinese tech firm Meituan has launched a new large language model, LongCat-2.0, which it claims is the first with over a trillion parameters to be fully trained using domestically produced chips. The development marks a significant step in China's efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in advanced AI hardware amid US export restrictions on cutting-edge semiconductors. Meituan's achievement demonstrates growing domestic capability in high-performance computing, potentially reducing reliance on foreign technology like Nvidia's chips.

Two IRGC Members Killed in 'Terrorist' Attack in Kermanshah

Two members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed and two others wounded in a shooting described as a 'terrorist' act in Kermanshah province. The attack occurred near the Iraqi border in Paveh county, with unidentified gunmen opening fire on a residence. An investigation is underway, and no group has yet claimed responsibility.

Taiwan raids tech firms in China AI chip smuggling probe

Taiwanese prosecutors have raided the local offices of Super Micro Computer and two other firms as part of an investigation into the alleged smuggling of advanced Nvidia AI chips to China, violating US export controls. The probe has intensified calls from lawmakers and experts to criminalise such exports under Taiwanese law, as currently prosecutors must rely on other statutes to pursue offenders. The case highlights growing regional tensions over technology transfer and efforts to align with Washington's restrictions on sensitive semiconductor technology.

Education Ministry and BPOM Promote Healthy Living Through Food Safety Education

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has partnered with the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) to instil healthy living habits in schools through food safety education. The collaboration includes launching a cultural-based food safety awareness programme and training 1,000 cadres to educate using local languages. The initiative aims to support the national free nutritious meal programme and build a healthier generation by 2045.

Minister Amran assures CPO supply secure ahead of B50 mandate on 1 July

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has confirmed that Indonesia's crude palm oil supply is sufficient to support the B50 biodiesel mandate starting 1 July 2026. The minister stated that rising national production, now reaching 32 million tonnes in exports, ensures ample stock for the programme without disrupting domestic cooking oil needs. The policy is framed as a historic step towards energy independence under President Prabowo Subianto's administration.

Global Interest in Indonesia's Green Energy Soars as Investment Doubles

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources reports that investment in renewable energy in the Asia Pacific region has doubled, signalling a massive opportunity for the country. The government notes that the national renewable energy mix has surpassed its strategic plan target, reaching 18.3%, largely driven by biodiesel. To further capitalise on this momentum, the government is accelerating the development of 100 GW of solar power plants to strengthen national energy security.

Luhut Says Digitalisation of Social Assistance System Could Save State Budget up to IDR 1,500 Trillion

Coordinating Minister Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan has announced that the government's plan to digitalise the social assistance (bansos) system could result in state budget savings of more than IDR 1,500 trillion. The system, which is being developed domestically, will consolidate 27,000 applications across ministries and agencies. Luhut also projected that this digitalisation effort could help increase Indonesia's tax ratio to 13 per cent.

Mekaar Programme Strengthens Economic Independence of Millions of Indonesian Women

The Mekaar programme, run by PNM, has reached over 23 million underprivileged women, making it the world's largest group-based microfinance institution. The initiative combines access to collateral-free capital with ongoing business training, financial literacy, and digital tools. This integrated approach is credited with boosting the competitiveness of women-led ultra-micro enterprises and enhancing household economic resilience.

Indonesia's Makarim, Gojek founder and former minister, found guilty of graft

Former Indonesian education minister and Gojek co-founder Nadiem Makarim has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption linked to a Chromebook procurement scheme that caused US$120 million in state losses. The Jakarta anti-corruption court also imposed a fine and substantial restitution, marking a dramatic fall for the tech entrepreneur who denies wrongdoing and claims the case is politically motivated. The verdict raises significant concerns about the chilling effect on professionals considering public service roles in Indonesia.

Transcending the Dichotomy of Knowledge

This article explores the philosophical rejection of the dichotomy between religious and secular knowledge, rooted in the educational vision of K.H. Imam Zarkasyi. It argues that all knowledge originates from God and should lead to the recognition of divine truth, challenging the historical separation that has fragmented Islamic education. The piece connects this view to the epistemologies of Al-Ghazali and Syed Muhammad Naquib al-Attas, who emphasised that the loss of adab (proper conduct) and the separation of knowledge from tauhid (monotheism) are the root causes of modern educational crises.

American Woman Faces 12 Years in Prison for Smuggling Cannabis into Bali

An American citizen, Tyeisha Kieonne Parks, has been charged with smuggling 36.71 grammes of cannabis into Bali through Ngurah Rai Airport. Prosecutors are seeking a 12-year prison sentence under Indonesia's strict narcotics laws. The defendant admitted to purchasing the drug in the United States and consuming a portion before her flight.

Welcoming the 80th Bhayangkara Day, National Police Renovate 80 Homes

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has renovated 80 homes across the country as part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day commemorations. One of the homes, belonging to an 85-year-old resident in Bogor Regency, was inaugurated by the Deputy Chief of Police and features solar panels for eco-friendly electricity. The programme aims to provide decent housing and reflects the force's commitment to community service.

Indonesia Predicted to Have More Super-Rich Individuals, What Is the Minimum Asset Threshold?

Indonesia is forecast to experience the fastest growth in its ultra-high-net-worth individual (UHNWI) population globally, with a projected increase of over 80 per cent by 2031, according to Knight Frank's The Wealth Report 2026. The report defines UHNWIs as individuals possessing investable assets of at least US$30 million, excluding primary residences and personal-use items. This growth is expected to outpace other nations including Saudi Arabia, Poland, Vietnam, and Australia.

When the Future Sues Gen Z for Negligence in Learning

A legal practitioner and lecturer draws a parallel between the digital habits of Gen Z and the civil law concept of 'wanprestasi' (breach of contract). The article argues that many young people are in breach of an unspoken contract with their own futures by trading deep learning and focus for the shallow validation of social media. It warns that real-world outcomes, unlike algorithms, will ultimately judge individuals on genuine competence rather than curated online personas.

Finance Ministry Reveals Rp73.5 Trillion Annual Climate Budget, Urges Private Sector Role

Indonesia's Finance Ministry disclosed that average annual government spending on climate issues reached Rp73.5 trillion from 2018 to 2024, representing about 3% of the state budget. Officials stressed that this public funding is insufficient to meet the estimated Rp800 trillion needed yearly to achieve net zero emissions by 2060. The government views its budget as a catalyst to de-risk investments and attract significantly greater private sector participation.

Distribution Partnerships as a Strategy to Accelerate Business Expansion

PT Rukun Global Indojaya (RGI) has leveraged a data-driven distribution partnership with PT Niaga Nusa Abadi (NNA) to expand its market reach into previously untapped areas. The collaboration, which began in August 2024, has enabled RGI to make informed expansion decisions based on NNA's structured market analysis. NNA currently operates over 50 distribution networks across Indonesia, aiming to help brand partners achieve sustainable growth amid national market competition.

Qatar suspends maritime navigation and activities for security reasons

Qatar's Ministry of Transport has temporarily suspended all maritime navigation and activities, excluding vessels under international conventions, as a precautionary measure for public safety. The move follows a fatal incident where a Qatari national was killed by shrapnel from a military operation, with the victim's missing boat found after an overnight search. Authorities coordinated the suspension with security agencies and urged the public to comply until further notice.

Groundbreaking of Sumber Waras Hospital Set for August

The Jakarta provincial government will commence construction of the long-stalled Sumber Waras Hospital with a groundbreaking ceremony in August 2026. Governor Pramono Anung confirmed the project, which had been delayed for 14 years, will proceed as an international-standard facility focusing on cardiac and cancer care. The development marks a resolution to a protracted legal dispute over land acquisition that originated during the tenure of former Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama.

Lessons from 'Teach You a Lesson' for Indonesia's Education System

A popular Korean drama addressing school bullying, abuse of power, and victim protection has sparked reflection on similar challenges within Indonesia's education system. The series highlights how victims often suffer in silence due to fear and shame, while bystander apathy allows the cycle of violence to continue. It serves as a reminder that schools must prioritise character building and student safety alongside academic achievement.

Indonesia pursues strategic stake in Belarus potash mine to secure fertiliser supply

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto announced that state-owned PT Pupuk Indonesia is conducting due diligence to acquire shares in a Belarusian potash mine. The strategic investment aims to guarantee domestic supply of the key fertiliser ingredient, which Indonesia lacks, and shield food security from global supply disruptions.

The Challenge of Islamic Financial Literacy in the Digital Age

The rapid digitalisation of financial services in Indonesia has not been matched by a corresponding rise in public understanding of Sharia-compliant contracts (akad). Many consumers choose Islamic products based on labels rather than a genuine comprehension of the underlying principles, which risks blurring the distinction from conventional finance. The article argues that digital platforms must be leveraged not only for service delivery but also for transparent education on akad to build trust and ensure the ethical integrity of the industry.

Generali's Strategy to Boost the Role of Life Insurance in the Indonesian Economy

Generali Indonesia's CEO Rebecca Tan discusses the life insurance sector's significant growth potential, given its current contribution to GDP is below 3%. The company is focusing on financial literacy and product innovation, including reviving unit-linked products, to support the Financial Services Authority's (OJK) push for the industry to play a greater role in the national economy.

Gerindra Legislator Minta Indonesia Tak Hanya Kejar MoU Investasi, Tapi Percepat Realisasi Proyek

Anggota DPR dari Fraksi Gerindra, Azis Subekti, mendesak pemerintah untuk mengubah paradigma keberhasilan investasi dari sekadar penandatanganan nota kesepahaman menjadi percepatan realisasi proyek. Ia menyoroti bahwa komitmen investasi senilai 175 miliar dolar AS tidak akan berarti tanpa penyelesaian hambatan implementasi seperti perizinan, koordinasi lintas lembaga, dan pembebasan lahan. Azis menekankan bahwa kapasitas negara untuk mengubah peluang menjadi proyek nyata yang menciptakan lapangan kerja dan transfer teknologi akan menentukan masa depan ekonomi Indonesia.

China and EU Launch Trade and Investment Consultation Mechanism

China and the European Union have officially established a new bilateral consultation mechanism aimed at addressing trade and investment frictions. The inaugural meeting, co-chaired by senior officials in Brussels, identified initial working areas including trade balancing, export controls, and intellectual property rights. Both sides also agreed to set up a joint monitoring mechanism to oversee progress.

LPSK Deploys Team to Investigate Death of Doctor Icha in NTT

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has dispatched a team to investigate the death of Doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni in Kupang, NTT. The team has met with the victim's family, who have yet to formally request protection as they are completing traditional ceremonies. The young doctor's death is suspected to be a suicide triggered by severe psychological pressure following alleged intimidation by a local parliament member.

Huawei Launches Next-Generation Grid-Forming Energy Storage Platform LUTERRA

Huawei has unveiled its upgraded LUTERRA Smart String Grid-Forming Energy Storage Platform, featuring a 1000 V AC architecture and a 12.5 MW/50 MWh array capacity. The platform incorporates five technological breakthroughs, including advanced power electronics and AI-driven digital twins, to enhance grid stability, improve returns, and accelerate delivery for utility-scale projects. The launch signals a significant push in intelligent renewable energy infrastructure, with potential implications for energy transition investments and grid modernisation in markets like Indonesia.

Nadiem Makarim Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

Former Indonesian Education Minister Nadiem Makarim has been sentenced to a decade in prison for corruption related to a Chromebook procurement scheme. The Jakarta Corruption Court also imposed a fine of Rp 1 billion and ordered him to pay Rp 809.5 billion in restitution. The verdict included a dissenting opinion from one judge who argued for Makarim's acquittal.

Court Rejects Nadiem's COVID-19 Defence in Chromebook Procurement Case, Cites 'Mas Menteri' Directives

The Jakarta Corruption Court has dismissed former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim's defence that the COVID-19 pandemic constituted a force majeure event justifying the procurement of Chromebooks. The panel of judges ruled that the emergency situation did not eliminate the unlawful nature of directing the procurement towards a specific product. The court also highlighted meeting minutes and electronic conversations indicating Nadiem's active involvement in steering the technical selection towards Chrome OS, rather than merely receiving reports from subordinates.

Mandatory 'New Fuel' B50 Takes Effect Tomorrow, Amran Reveals Fate of Indonesian CPO

Indonesia's mandatory B50 biodiesel programme will officially commence on 1 July 2026, according to Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman. The government has assured sufficient crude palm oil (CPO) supply, with 23.3 million tonnes allocated to meet the 46.5 million kilolitre biodiesel demand. The minister stated the policy marks a historic milestone, ending the nation's reliance on approximately 5 million tonnes of diesel imports.

SMBC Indonesia and BTN Finalise Pension Credit Portfolio Transfer

PT Bank SMBC Indonesia Tbk and PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk have completed the transfer of a pension credit portfolio. The move is part of BTN's strategy to expand its financial ecosystem beyond mortgages to serve customers throughout their lifecycle, including retirement. SMBC Indonesia will refocus its resources on emerging affluent, affluent, SME, and corporate segments.

Facing El Nino, West Sulawesi Maintains Irrigation and Strengthens Floodgates

West Sulawesi's Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency is taking proactive measures to secure water supplies for agriculture amid the looming El Nino threat. The strategy focuses on maintaining irrigation channels and reinforcing the operation of water gates to protect the region's food security. A shortage of personnel to operate the floodgates has been identified as a critical challenge that requires immediate attention.

Nadiem Makarim Reveals Hospitalisation for Reinfection Before Being Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim disclosed he suffered a reinfection requiring hospitalisation just before his sentencing hearing. The Central Jakarta Corruption Court subsequently sentenced him to 10 years in prison for his role in a corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebooks. The panel of judges noted they considered the defendant's health condition when agreeing to summarise the legal considerations during the lengthy verdict reading.

Indonesia reduces reliance on imported endoscopes

Indonesia is successfully reducing its dependence on imported medical devices by boosting domestic manufacturing, with local firms now producing endoscopes and planning to develop the country's first locally made CT scanner. The Ministry of Health highlighted that this shift not only yields immediate economic benefits but also aims to position Southeast Asia as a global hub for medical device innovation. The strategy is supported by international regulatory harmonisation efforts and a strengthened academic research foundation to ensure patient safety and build a resilient regional value chain.

OJK Takes MSCI Warning on Market Downgrade Risk Seriously

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is actively addressing concerns raised by MSCI regarding the potential reclassification of the Indonesian stock market to frontier market status. The regulator has implemented measures including lowering the shareholder disclosure threshold and increasing the minimum free float requirement. MSCI has acknowledged these reforms but warns that consistent implementation and further progress are needed by the November 2026 review to avoid a downgrade.

Nadiem Makarim Also Ordered to Pay Rp809.5 Billion in Restitution

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced Nadiem Makarim to 10 years in prison and ordered him to pay Rp809.5 billion in restitution for a corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops. The panel of judges found him guilty of systematic corruption, though one judge issued a dissenting opinion calling for his acquittal. The sentence was lighter than the 18-year prison term sought by prosecutors, who had also demanded the seizure of assets worth Rp4.8 trillion deemed disproportionate to his legitimate income.

LPDP Scholarship Officially Opens, Check the Priority Fields of Study

The Indonesian Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) has opened applications for its second phase of 2026 scholarships, targeting a minimum of 80% of recipients for STEM and strategic industry fields. The policy shift aims to build human capital for national transformation, while still allocating up to 20% of awards to social sciences, humanities, and economics. Registration runs from 30 June to 31 July 2026.

Foreign National Allegedly Victim of Pickpocketing Gang in South Jakarta's Kuningan Area, Police Investigate

A foreign national has reportedly fallen victim to a pickpocketing gang in the Karet Kuningan area of Setiabudi, South Jakarta. The incident, which was captured on video and went viral on social media, occurred as the victim was walking along a pavement near the LRT station. Police are currently investigating the scene, gathering CCTV footage and witness statements, and have urged the victim to file an official report.