Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 June 2026

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China Grounds Private Aircraft Following Beijing Skyscraper Crash

Chinese authorities have banned private light aircraft flights after a small plane crashed into Beijing's tallest skyscraper, the CITIC Tower, killing the pilot and injuring 13 others. The nationwide airspace control measures also suspend skydiving and paragliding activities, with no end date announced as an investigation into the incident continues.

Most ride-hailing platforms back 8 pct commission cap: Minister

Indonesia's transport minister has stated that major ride-hailing firms, including Grab, GoTo, and Maxim, are prepared to support a new regulation capping platform commissions at eight percent, though some internal adjustments are still needed. The policy, set to take effect on 1 July 2026, aims to improve the welfare of online motorcycle taxi drivers following a directive from President Prabowo Subianto. While most operators have committed to the change, InDrive is still assessing its impact, but this will not delay the regulation's implementation.

West Java DPRD Oversees Establishment of 'Sekolah Rakyat' in Cianjur to Curb Dropout Rates

The West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) is coordinating with the Ministry of Social Affairs to realise the 'Sekolah Rakyat' programme in Cianjur Regency. The initiative aims to provide free boarding education for children from underprivileged and extremely poor families to reduce school dropout rates. A location for the school has been prepared in Cilaku District, with construction planned as part of a National Strategic Programme.

Minister Claims Online Gambling Comment Spam Targets Regional Influencers

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid has revealed a shift in the strategy of online gambling spammers, who are now predominantly targeting regional influencers with high engagement. Government accounts and media outlets are also heavily affected, as their official status makes them difficult to block. The ministry's monitoring indicates that TikTok is the platform most exploited for these spam comments.

Nadiem Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison: Judge Cites Planned, Structured, and Systematic Crime

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. The judge ruled that his actions were planned, structured, and systematic, causing massive state losses and negatively impacting education in underdeveloped regions. The verdict highlighted that Nadiem, despite his economic sufficiency and background in innovation, abused his position as a minister.

Revealed: 95% of Old-Age Security Participants Have Balances Below Rp 50 Million

Indonesia's tax authority has disclosed that the vast majority of workers hold modest balances in the national old-age security programme (JHT), with 95% having less than Rp 50 million. Only a tiny fraction of participants, around 1-2%, possess balances exceeding that threshold. Officials emphasised that the final tax rate on larger payouts remains a light 5% and that contributions are exempt from income tax to avoid double taxation.

Jokowi's Post-Presidency Moves Sharpen Political Tensions Between PSI and PDIP

Former President Joko Widodo's recent political safari to Lampung has intensified a war of words between the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) and the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP). PDIP officials questioned the propriety of Jokowi receiving a traditional title, while PSI fired back, suggesting PDIP should focus on self-reflection. The exchange highlights the growing political rivalry and jostling for influence ahead of the 2029 elections.

OJK Affirms Commitment to Strengthen Sustainable Finance and Carbon Exchange at International Forum

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reiterated its commitment to bolstering sustainable finance and the carbon exchange ecosystem. Speaking at the London Climate Action Week 2026, OJK leadership emphasised the need for credible transition financing to support the country's shift towards a low-carbon economy. The regulator is developing new policies, including a blended finance platform, to ensure funding reaches viable green projects and hard-to-abate sectors.

National Police Chief Promotes 87 High-Ranking Officers, Four Attain Commissioner General Rank

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has promoted 87 high-ranking officers in a ceremony at the National Police Headquarters. Four officers were elevated to the rank of Commissioner General, a three-star position. The promotions are described as institutional recognition of dedication and a strategic move to strengthen the force's transformation and public service mandate.

BPS to Use AI to Accelerate 2026 Economic Census Data Processing

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) will deploy artificial intelligence to speed up data processing and improve accuracy for the 2026 Economic Census. The technology is expected to help manage the vast scope of the census, which covers millions of businesses across the archipelago, by detecting anomalies and duplicate entries. The census, which runs from 15 June to 31 August 2026, is a decennial exercise mandated by law to provide a comprehensive picture of the nation's economic landscape for development planning.

Former Minister Nadiem Makarim Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Education Laptop Corruption

Former Indonesian Education Minister Nadiem Makarim has been sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in a corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management systems. The Jakarta Corruption Court found him guilty of causing state losses totalling Rp2.18 trillion through procurement irregularities between 2019 and 2022. Makarim, who was also fined Rp1 billion, was accused of receiving Rp809.59 billion in illicit funds, with prosecutors having initially sought an 18-year sentence.

JECX Sets IPO Price at Rp1,250, Near Bottom of Initial Range

PT Nitrasanata Dharma, the operator of the Jakarta Eye Center (JEC) network, has set its initial public offering price at Rp1,250 per share, close to the lower end of its initial range. The company aims to raise up to Rp406.65 billion, with the majority of proceeds earmarked for repaying bank loans. The ophthalmology provider plans to list on the Indonesia Stock Exchange on 7 July 2026.

Nadiem Cleared of Primary Charge in Chromebook Case, Judge Explains Reasoning

The Jakarta Corruption Court has acquitted former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim of the primary charge in the Chromebook procurement corruption case. The panel of judges ruled that the element of 'unlawful act' was not fulfilled, as all of Nadiem's actions were carried out within his ministerial authority. The court determined the alleged conduct was more appropriately classified as potential abuse of authority rather than an unlawful act, though the trial continues for other charges.

Vietnam Explores Sustainable Aviation Fuel Development at International Conference in Hanoi

Vietnam is actively exploring the development of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as part of its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with policymakers and industry leaders convening in Hanoi to discuss regulatory frameworks and market creation. The conference highlighted Vietnam's potential role in regional SAF value chains, including feedstock supply and fuel production, while balancing environmental goals with energy security and business competitiveness. Coordinated action across aviation, energy, agriculture, and finance sectors was identified as crucial for the country's long-term SAF deployment strategy.

Military Academy in 'Sekolah Rakyat': Blurring the Lines Between Civil and Military Spheres

Setara Institute's Hendardi has sharply criticised the government's decision to involve military cadets in training participants of the 'Sekolah Rakyat' programme, arguing it reflects a dangerous blurring of civil-military boundaries. He contends the policy undermines post-Reformasi principles of civilian supremacy by deploying military institutions for character building, a role that should be fulfilled by professional civilian educators. The criticism comes amid broader concerns over the expanding role of the Indonesian military in civilian sectors, from food security to public services.

PPPK Salary Crisis Evidence of Regional Government Reform Failure

The inability of dozens of regional governments to pay the salaries of Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK) is being cited as proof of the failure of regional reform over the past 25 years. The Evident Institute argues the issue stems from poor institutional capacity and fiscal management, not merely central government transfer cuts. The think tank also highlighted that decentralisation has, in some cases, fostered corruption and weak accountability at the local level.

Nadiem Makarim Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Chromebook Corruption

Former Indonesian Education Minister Nadiem Makarim has been sentenced to 10 years in prison by the Jakarta Corruption Court for his role in a graft case involving the procurement of Chromebooks. The court also ordered him to pay a fine of Rp1 billion and restitution of Rp809.5 billion. The verdict was lighter than the 18-year sentence sought by prosecutors, and one judge issued a dissenting opinion arguing for Makarim's acquittal.

Government Spends Average of Rp73.5 Trillion Annually on Climate

Indonesia's government has allocated an average of Rp73.5 trillion per year on climate-related spending between 2018 and 2024, representing about 3 percent of the state budget. Officials stress that this public funding is a catalyst rather than a complete solution, as the country faces an annual financing gap of up to Rp800 trillion to meet its 2060 net-zero emissions target. The government is promoting a collaborative financing ecosystem involving the private sector, innovative instruments like green sukuk, and international partnerships.

PKK Chairperson Inaugurates West Java PKK and Posyandu Heads, Stresses Institutional Strengthening

The Chairperson of the national Family Welfare and Empowerment Movement (TP PKK), Tri Tito Karnavian, has inaugurated Samantha Dewi Erwan Setiawan as the new head for West Java Province. Tri emphasised that the role is a strategic responsibility to drive family empowerment and improve basic public services, particularly given West Java's status as Indonesia's most populous province. She called for strengthened institutional capacity down to the village level and cross-sector collaboration to optimise the transformation of Posyandu integrated service posts.

Non-Civil Servant Lecturers Testify at Constitutional Court Over Low Pay and Uncertain Status

Non-ASN lecturers have told Indonesia's Constitutional Court that they work without clear contracts, receive net salaries as low as Rp3.17 million per month, and face threats to their academic freedom. The testimonies were part of a judicial review of the Teacher and Lecturer Law, which the applicants argue fails to guarantee a decent living or legal certainty. The lecturers described precarious working conditions, including unacknowledged years of service and the need to take second jobs to survive.

Batik Makers to Hold Exhibition to Strengthen Market Amid Mass-Produced Imitation Threat

The Indonesian Batik Craftsmen and Entrepreneurs Association (APPBI) will hold the 'Seni Batik Puspa Nuswantara' exhibition in Jakarta from 8-12 July 2026 to bolster the national batik market. The event aims to address the severe pressure traditional artisans face from an influx of cheap, industrially printed textiles falsely marketed as batik. Organisers warn that without intervention, Indonesia risks losing the traditional knowledge holders who are the soul of Nusantara batik.

AGM Agrees to Board Reshuffle to Strengthen Corporate Governance

PT Bank JTrust Indonesia Tbk shareholders approved a boardroom reshuffle during their 2025 Annual General Meeting, appointing Raja Pardede as a new Director pending regulatory approval. The bank emphasised a strategy of strengthening internal controls and risk management over aggressive growth. The meeting also extended the Board of Commissioners' term to four years to ensure long-term supervisory continuity.

West Jakarta Social Agency Nets 929 People with Social Welfare Issues in First Half of 2026

The West Jakarta Social Agency (Sudinsos) has apprehended 929 individuals with social welfare problems (PMKS) between January and June 2026. The majority were homeless people, followed by individuals with psychotic disorders and illegal traffic marshals. Those from outside Jakarta will be repatriated, while locals without family will be referred to rehabilitation centres.

National Internship Programme Batch 2 2026: Can Graduates from Two Years Ago Apply?

The Ministry of Manpower has announced the schedule for the second batch of the 2026 National Internship Programme, expanding the quota to 150,000 participants. While the full requirements are yet to be published, the programme is designed as a school-to-work transition, with regulations stipulating that applicants must have graduated no more than one year prior to registration. The initiative offers benefits including a government-funded stipend equivalent to the local minimum wage and a high rate of subsequent permanent employment.

Lestari Moerdijat: Women's Participation in STEM is Key to Global Competitiveness

Wakil Ketua MPR Lestari Moerdijat has called for increased female participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, framing it as a strategic necessity for Indonesia's global competitiveness. She highlighted a significant drop-off between female STEM graduates and those who build sustainable careers in the sector, with only 8% remaining in the workforce. Moerdijat urged for inclusive education policies and a shift in societal narratives to normalise women's involvement in STEM from the family level upwards.

Police Release Travel Agent Boss Who Defrauded Foreign Tourists in Labuan Bajo

Police in Manggarai Barat have released a travel agency owner, Kristoforus Aman, after he was detained for 48 days for defrauding foreign tourists of Rp 85.2 million. The suspect was released after the case was resolved through restorative justice, having returned the full financial loss to the victim. The victim, a Malaysian national, and the suspect reached a peace agreement, leading to the revocation of the police report and the initiation of formal procedures to permanently close the case.

KPK Reveals Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Underwent Surgery After Digestive Tract Illness

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has undergone surgery following a digestive tract illness. His detention was suspended last week to allow for hospital treatment. The KPK is monitoring his condition and expects him to resume legal proceedings once he recovers.

Baznas: Transforming Muzaki, Amil, and Mustahik is Key to Islamic Philanthropy

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has called for a holistic transformation of all three actors in the zakat ecosystem—donors, administrators, and recipients—to create a sustainable Islamic philanthropy model. The agency argues that focusing solely on lifting recipients out of poverty overlooks the spiritual development of donors and the need for professional, tech-savvy administrators. This integrated approach aims to turn zakat from a mere wealth distribution tool into a comprehensive system for societal and spiritual advancement.

2,596 Klaten Residents Officially Exit Poverty Data, Ready for Independent Living

A total of 2,596 beneficiary families in Klaten, Central Java, have graduated from the Family Hope Programme (PKH), signifying improved welfare and readiness for self-sufficiency. The graduation includes 992 families who voluntarily withdrew from aid and 1,604 who transitioned after participating in a social economic empowerment scheme. Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi praised the achievement, noting it reflects broader collaborative efforts that have helped reduce the province's poverty rate.

LPSK Steps In to Investigate Doctor Icha's Death, Meets Victim's Father in NTT

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has dispatched a team to Timor Tengah Utara, East Nusa Tenggara, to investigate the death of doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Doctor Icha. The move follows allegations that the young doctor was intimidated before her death, which occurred two weeks after she was reportedly shouted at by three local parliament members. The LPSK team has met with the victim's father, though the family has not yet formally requested protection as they are completing traditional ceremonies.

OJK Strengthens Sustainable Finance and Carbon Exchange at London Climate Action Week 2026

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable finance and the implementation of carbon economic value during London Climate Action Week 2026. The authority is strengthening policies to support low-carbon transition and ensure the credibility of the Indonesia Carbon Exchange, which has recorded transactions worth over Rp93 billion. OJK aims to position the financial sector as a catalyst for achieving net zero emissions by 2060.

UM-PTKIN results announced this afternoon, participants urged to access official site

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced the results of the 2026 State Islamic Religious Higher Education Entrance Examination (UM-PTKIN) today. Successful candidates must promptly complete document verification and administrative registration according to their respective campus deadlines. Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to pursue alternative admission routes through independent selection pathways managed by individual institutions.

House Commission X Backs Research Budget Increase for 2027, Suggests Rp 8 Trillion Ideal

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission X has expressed support for the government's plan to increase the research budget, with a senior member suggesting an ideal figure of Rp 8 trillion for 2027. The government has already committed to a Rp 4 trillion increase for 2026, raising the total to approximately Rp 12 trillion. The push for greater funding aims to boost innovation in science and technology for national development.

West Jakarta Social Agency Distributes 389 Physical Aids for Disabled Residents

The West Jakarta Social Agency (Sudinsos) has distributed 389 physical aids to residents with disabilities so far in 2026, including wheelchairs and hearing aids. The agency aims to distribute a total of 970 aids by the end of the year, an increase from 809 units in 2025. Residents can apply for assistance through local RT/RW administrators, with assessments conducted to ensure aid is given to those most in need.

AI as a Confidant: What Is Happening to the Way We Communicate?

A growing number of people are turning to generative AI chatbots like ChatGPT for emotional support rather than confiding in friends or family, marking a significant shift in human communication patterns. While AI offers non-judgemental, 24/7 interaction, researchers warn that over-reliance on these tools may erode essential social skills and the depth of human relationships. The trend is underscored by data showing a surge in the use of AI companions and a simultaneous decline in close human friendships.

PHE Marks 19th Anniversary by Strengthening Collaboration and Sharing with the Community

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) celebrated its 19th anniversary by distributing Rp101.25 million in aid to four interfaith foundations, reinforcing its commitment to social impact. The event, attended by top Pertamina executives, highlighted the upstream subholding's strategic role in national oil and gas production. PHE's leadership emphasised the need for collaboration, efficiency, and new exploration to achieve energy self-sufficiency and sustainable growth.

Indonesia Plans 100 GW Solar Power, Ministry Outlines Strategy to Minimise Land Use

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is developing strategies to build 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity without consuming excessive land. The plan includes utilising reservoirs, former mining sites, and rooftops, while coordinating land identification with other ministries. The government estimates the renewable energy push will require Rp 1,600 trillion in investment over the next decade and is preparing a presidential regulation to accelerate the projects.

US Pushes Joint Defence Innovation and Investment with Indonesia Through Strategic Forum

The United States Embassy in Jakarta hosted a defence industry roundtable to advance Indonesia's military modernisation and industrial capacity. The forum brought together 36 representatives from Indonesian state-owned enterprises and leading US and Indonesian defence firms, including Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and PT Pindad. The initiative underscores Washington's commitment to strengthening bilateral security ties and fostering economic growth through technology collaboration in the Indo-Pacific.

Analyst Says Jokowi's Political Safari Unlikely to Boost PSI and Gibran's Electability

A political analyst has cast doubt on the effectiveness of former President Joko Widodo's political safari in boosting the electoral prospects of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) and his son Gibran Rakabuming Raka. M. Jamiluddin Ritonga from Esa Unggul University noted that the recent visit to Lampung lacked the public enthusiasm seen during Jokowi's 2019 presidential campaign. He suggested that Jokowi's personal political magnetism has waned, making the effort a speculative gamble that could ultimately disappoint the party.

Domestic Waste: A Household Issue That Determines the Future of Cities

Indonesia's cities are grappling with a mounting domestic waste crisis driven by population growth, urbanisation, and consumer lifestyles, which threatens public health and the environment. The core challenge is not merely technical but behavioural, requiring a paradigm shift where households view waste as a resource and actively participate in reduction and segregation. Effective solutions demand a combination of community empowerment, technological support, and stronger local government policies promoting a circular economy from the household level.

Baznas Backs 2026 Law Enforcer Awards for Defending the Poor

Indonesia's National Alms Agency (Baznas) has pledged its full support for the 2026 Law Enforcer Awards initiated by the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI). The awards aim to recognise judges, prosecutors, police officers, and advocates who demonstrate a strong commitment to advocating for and protecting the poor and marginalised. Baznas hopes the initiative will motivate law enforcers to be more just and humane towards disadvantaged communities.

Piyungan Intersection Temporarily Reopened to Ease School Holiday Traffic

Authorities in Bantul, Yogyakarta, have temporarily fully reopened the Piyungan three-way junction to prevent severe congestion during the school holiday season. The junction, a key route to the Gunungkidul coastal tourist area, had been subject to a stop-and-go system due to ongoing rigid concrete pavement works. The full reopening will last until 15 July 2026, after which construction will resume on the northern side of the road.

Indonesia Finalises SAF and B50 Distribution to Strengthen Energy Security

Indonesia is accelerating its energy transition by preparing infrastructure for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and B50 biodiesel distribution. Pertamina's Chief Commissioner inspected key facilities in East Java to ensure operational readiness. The initiative aims to bolster national energy independence and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Posyandu Cadres and AFP: The Frontline in Preventing Polio's Return

Indonesia's community health workers, known as Posyandu cadres, are being highlighted as a crucial early warning system against the resurgence of polio. Their role in detecting Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) in children is vital for rapid epidemiological investigation and preventing wider outbreaks. Strengthening their training and public education is seen as key to maintaining high immunisation coverage and public trust.

PNM Boosts Welfare of Underprivileged Families Through Easier Financing Access

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has provided financing to 23.3 million customers, primarily underprivileged women, across Indonesia. An independent study shows the programme has increased average monthly net income by Rp875,000 and boosted business development capacity by nearly 29 percent. The state-owned enterprise emphasises that combining capital access with mentoring is key to sustainable economic empowerment at the grassroots level.

E-commerce Platforms Ready to Withhold Seller Tax, Await DJP Written Directive

The Indonesian E-Commerce Association (idEA) has expressed its support for the government's plan to improve tax compliance among online sellers but is still awaiting a formal written decision from the Directorate General of Taxes. The industry is prepared to implement a 0.5% income tax withholding on domestic seller transactions, as mandated by a recent ministerial regulation. Platforms estimate they will need approximately one month for system adjustments once the official implementing rules are issued.

Deputy Minister: Human Rights Law revision to regulate digital rights protection

The Indonesian government is revising the 1999 Human Rights Law to include protections for citizens' rights in the digital sphere, addressing gaps in the 27-year-old legislation. The revision will also introduce norms regarding the right to a clean and healthy environment. Public consultations are underway to gather input, with the government targeting the bill's passage this year.

Ex-Lurah's Scheme to Illegally Lease Village Land: Plotted Like a Housing Estate

A former village head in Sleman, Yogyakarta, illegally leased village treasury land to residents, resulting in the construction of 17 private homes. The suspect, Reno Candra Sangaji, collected up to IDR 1.3 billion in rent for personal gain without gubernatorial permission. Authorities are now awaiting a court ruling to determine the fate of the buildings and the residents, who were reportedly unaware the leases were unlawful.

Wife in Banyumas Kills Husband in Planned Murder to Marry Lover

A 61-year-old woman in Banyumas, Central Java, has been arrested for the premeditated murder of her 67-year-old husband. Police revealed the motive was her desire to marry her lover, and she attempted to stage the crime as a robbery. The case was uncovered after a suspicious neighbour reported the death to the authorities.

Building Awareness from Home for a Better Future

The article argues that the COVID-19 pandemic and frequent natural disasters have highlighted the family's crucial role as the first line of defence in health and safety. It calls for strengthening public awareness of routine health checks, clean living habits, and disaster preparedness, emphasising that prevention is more effective and economical than treatment. A multi-sectoral approach involving government, educational institutions, community leaders, and technology is needed to embed these practices into daily life.