Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 June 2026

Showing 1,001-1,050 of 1,554 articles

Several Rooms in Kuantan Singingi Regent's Office Sealed

Several rooms in the Kuantan Singingi Regent's office in Riau, including the regent's and vice regent's offices, were sealed on Tuesday. The action occurred amidst reports of an alleged operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) team in the area. No official statement has been released regarding the party responsible for the sealing or its connection to the ongoing activities.

Pegadaian Director Invites Youth to 'Buy the Future at Today's Price' Through CEO Talks

PT Pegadaian's Director of Risk Management, Legal, and Compliance, Ismail Ilyas, encouraged university students to strengthen financial literacy, competence, and adaptability during a CEO Talks event at Andalas University. The initiative aims to prepare young people for the evolving job market by promoting early financial planning and investment. Over 1,000 participants opened Tabungan Emas accounts via the Tring app, demonstrating strong engagement with the state-owned pawnbroker's digital financial inclusion efforts.

BPJS Kesehatan Launches Rehab 3.0 to Ease Arrears Payments

Indonesia's BPJS Kesehatan has introduced the Rehab 3.0 programme, allowing participants with premium arrears to pay in daily or weekly instalments rather than monthly. The initiative aims to make it easier for inactive members to settle their debts and regain active health insurance coverage. The agency also encouraged corporate social responsibility donations to help cover arrears for struggling participants.

Iran Ready to Honour Agreement as Long as US Keeps Its Promises

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that Tehran will adhere to its memorandum of understanding with the United States, provided Washington consistently fulfils its obligations. The agreement, signed in Islamabad on 18 June, is seen as crucial for ending recent military confrontations between the two nations. Pezeshkian emphasised that Iran's foreign policy remains grounded in rationality while maintaining readiness to defend its national interests.

Madonna Criticises AI in Music, Calls It the Antithesis of Art

Pop icon Madonna has voiced strong criticism against the use of artificial intelligence in music production, arguing that algorithms are the opposite of true artistic creation. She lamented the loss of pure, collaborative creative processes, which she says have been replaced by a focus on social media metrics. The singer revealed she deliberately distances herself from technology when seeking inspiration for new music.

Delpedro, OC Kaligis, and Happy Salma Attend Nadiem Makarim's Verdict Hearing

Prominent figures including activist Delpedro Marhaen, senior lawyer OC Kaligis, and actress Happy Salma attended the corruption verdict hearing for former minister Nadiem Makarim at the Jakarta Corruption Court. Makarim faces an 18-year prison sentence for alleged corruption in a digital education procurement programme, which reportedly caused state losses of Rp2.18 trillion. The case involves the procurement of Chromebooks and related devices for the Ministry of Education and Culture between 2019 and 2022.

JCI Plunges to 5,679 Level in First Trading Session

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) fell sharply by 2.42 per cent to 5,679 during the first trading session on Tuesday, with broad-based selling pressure led by basic materials and energy sectors. Analysts from BRI Danareksa Sekuritas noted that large-cap stocks were the primary drag on the index, indicating a risk-off phase in the market. Short-term market direction is expected to remain influenced by rupiah movements and global sentiment.

Pramono to Build New Bridge in Rasuna Said, Residents Can Attach Love Padlocks

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has announced plans to build two pedestrian bridges along Jalan HR Rasuna Said, which will feature a designated area for residents to attach 'love padlocks'. The initiative is part of a broader Rp91 billion street revitalisation project aimed at creating a new city landmark. The governor believes the concept of love is an important element to incorporate into the city's public spaces.

Rohil Police Deploy 279 Personnel to Secure Bakar Tongkang Festival in Bagansiapiapi

The Rokan Hilir Police have mobilised 279 officers as part of a 558-strong joint security force for the annual Bakar Tongkang ritual in Bagansiapiapi, Riau. The operation, which includes traffic management and bomb disposal sweeps, aims to ensure safety during the nationally recognised cultural event running from 29 June to 1 July 2026. Authorities emphasised professional and coordinated security measures to safeguard the festival, which draws both domestic and international tourists.

Puan Demands Strict Sanctions for DPRD Members Allegedly Involved in Intimidation of Doctor Icha

House Speaker Puan Maharani has urged for severe sanctions against three regional council members accused of intimidating a young doctor in East Nusa Tenggara, an incident the family claims led to her death. The doctor, Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, reportedly suffered severe depression after being berated by the politicians while treating a snakebite patient. Puan has called for a thorough investigation and legal action to prevent such incidents from recurring.

South Korea Prepares Trillions of Rupiah in Investment to Secure AI Chip Dominance

South Korea is mobilising a massive investment plan worth hundreds of billions of dollars to maintain its leadership in the global AI chip industry. The ambitious national project, involving giants Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, aims to build new semiconductor fabrication plants and data centres. The move comes as the government seeks to prevent its crucial revenue streams from being eroded by intensifying global competition.

Denpasar Police Clarify Viral Video of Accident Victim Charged Fee, Point to Unauthorised Volunteers

Denpasar Police have clarified that they do not charge fees for handling traffic accidents, following a viral video alleging a victim was asked for money. An investigation revealed the payment request came from an individual volunteer, not the police. Authorities have mediated between the involved parties and urged volunteers to provide clear information to prevent public misunderstanding.

SHOW Token Readies US$100 Million Funding to Support Indonesian Film Industry

Blockchain-based entertainment ecosystem SHOW Token has committed US$100 million to fund the Indonesian film industry, aiming to overcome capital barriers for local filmmakers. The initiative targets producing over 30 horror and drama titles this year in collaboration with major production houses. The company views Indonesia as a creative epicentre and seeks to build a new digital architecture for the creative economy.

Global Order Under Threat, German President Urges UN Reform

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has warned that the international rules-based order is facing unprecedented pressure, with some powerful nations openly flouting established norms. Speaking at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference, he argued that abandoning multilateral cooperation would be a fatal mistake. Steinmeier called for a renewed global commitment and a more efficient, effective United Nations capable of delivering better outcomes than authoritarian leaders.

Home Affairs Minister Gathers Regional Heads to Discuss Social Assistance Digitalisation in 43 Cities

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian convened a coordination meeting with regional heads to advance the digitalisation of social assistance distribution across 43 districts and cities. The initiative, part of a broader Government Technology (GovTech) roadmap, aims to enhance efficiency and transparency. Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan highlighted that the new system uses domestically developed AI and cross-sector data exchange to ensure accountable beneficiary selection.

Economist Proposes Rp281 Trillion State Fund Placement in Himbara Be Tied to Productive Credit Targets

An economist has urged the Indonesian government to attach strict productive credit targets to the placement of Rp281 trillion in state funds at state-owned banks (Himbara). Achmad Nur Hidayat argues that the success of the policy should be measured by increased lending to UMKM, farmers, and labour-intensive industries, not just by bolstering bank liquidity. He warns that without clear targets and transparency, the funds risk becoming a hidden liquidity subsidy rather than stimulating the real economy.

Forgotten Baby Syndrome: How a Momentary Lapse Can Turn a Car into a Death Trap

The phenomenon of 'Forgotten Baby Syndrome' explains how loving, attentive parents can unintentionally leave their children in hot cars, often with fatal consequences. Experts point to disruptions in prospective memory caused by stress, lack of sleep, and changes in routine as key factors. The article highlights the dangers of rapidly rising temperatures inside vehicles and discusses preventative measures, including mandatory alarm systems in child seats.

UGM Graduate Turns 5 Goats into a Hundreds of Millions Rupiah Business

Mila, a 27-year-old graduate of Universitas Gadjah Mada's Faculty of Animal Science, has built a modern livestock business generating hundreds of millions of rupiah in revenue. Starting with just five goats, she now focuses on genetic quality and animal welfare, with her farm supplying breeding stock, meat, and dairy products across East Java. Her success highlights the economic potential of modern, knowledge-based farming.

Israeli Defence Minister Katz Targets Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, Threatens 'Third War'

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has explicitly named Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as a target for assassination, escalating rhetoric amid fragile negotiations. Katz warned that any direct Iranian attack on Israel would trigger an immediate and large-scale military response, which he termed a 'third war'. The threat marks a significant and personal turn in the ongoing shadow conflict between the two nations.

Nadiem Anwar Makarim awaits verdict in Chromebook corruption trial

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Anwar Makarim attended the verdict hearing at the Jakarta Corruption Court on Tuesday. He faces charges related to alleged corruption in the procurement of Chromebooks for the ministry's digitalisation of education programme. The case has drawn significant public attention due to his high-profile status.

Pramono: Velodrome-Dukuh Atas LRT to Boost Transport Integration

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has stated that the planned LRT extension from Velodrome to Dukuh Atas will integrate over 95 per cent of the city's transport network. The first phase, from Velodrome to Manggarai, is scheduled for completion in August, covering 12.5 kilometres with 11 stations. A transport analyst noted the extension would increase public transport usage and reduce congestion, though he suggested prioritising routes to residential areas would be more effective.

S. Korea Asks Indonesia for Tax Incentives on Nickel EVs

South Korea has urged Indonesia to introduce tax incentives and remove non-tariff barriers for nickel-based electric vehicle and battery industries to support investors like Hyundai, which is facing declining competitiveness against cheaper battery alternatives. The request comes as both nations renew a critical mineral cooperation pact, with South Korea being a major demander of Indonesia's strategic nickel reserves. Indonesia, the world's top nickel producer, is considering government-borne VAT incentives for nickel-content EVs, though implementation has been delayed.

Indonesia builds Pamekasan salt center to curb imports by 2027

Indonesia is constructing a Rp7.9 billion salt processing centre in Pamekasan, East Java, as part of a national drive to achieve salt self-sufficiency by 2027. The facility aims to upgrade locally produced salt to industrial standards, reducing reliance on imports for both consumption and manufacturing. Pamekasan, a major salt-producing region with over 900 hectares of ponds, is expected to significantly boost its current output of 130,000 tonnes once the centre is operational.

Tobacco Giant BAT to Cut Thousands of Jobs in Major Restructuring

British American Tobacco (BAT) is set to eliminate 5,500 jobs and outsource a further 3,500 roles globally as part of a sweeping transformation programme. The FTSE 100 company aims to slash costs by £600 million annually by 2028, driven by declining demand for conventional cigarettes and a strategic shift towards artificial intelligence and digital operations. The restructuring will not affect its US subsidiary, Reynolds American.

Maybank Indonesia Disburses Rp8.2 Trillion in Green Financing to Accelerate ESG Transition

Maybank Indonesia has channelled approximately Rp8.2 trillion in green financing throughout 2025 to support businesses in adopting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. The bank is also preparing to issue green bonds in the second half of 2026 and is expanding its sustainable product offerings, including Sharia-compliant instruments. The initiative aligns with the group's regional strategy to mobilise sustainable finance and empower communities across ASEAN.

South Sulawesi Prosecutor's Office Responds to Ruling Invalidating Ex-Acting Governor's Suspect Status

The South Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office has responded to a Makassar court ruling that declared the suspect status of former Acting Governor Bahtiar Baharuddin invalid. The court found the designation in a Rp60 billion pineapple seedling corruption case to be unlawful and ordered his release from detention. Prosecutors stated they respect the pretrial decision but maintain that the investigation order remains legally valid and will continue after reviewing the judge's considerations.

Maybank Indonesia officially becomes financial conglomerate holding company

Maybank Indonesia's shareholders have approved its transformation into a Financial Conglomerate Holding Company (PIKK), integrating its banking, asset management, securities, and insurance units. The move aligns with the group's ROAR30 strategy and new OJK regulations, aiming to deliver seamless financial solutions. The new structure will see Maybank Indonesia as the parent entity overseeing subsidiaries including Maybank Sekuritas and Etiqa International Insurance.

IHSG Falls 2.42% in First Session, Investors Await Market Sentiment

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell by 2.42 per cent in the first trading session on Tuesday, driven by limited risk appetite among investors. The decline was attributed to continued net foreign selling and Indonesia's low weighting in the MSCI Emerging Market Index. Analysts suggest the market remains volatile in the short term, but historical trends indicate a potential recovery in July.

Bantul Scrap Boss Swindled by Own Employee, Two Vehicles Lost

A scrap metal business owner in Bantul, Yogyakarta, was defrauded of two vehicles by his own employee. The suspect, identified as N, lured the victim with a fictitious investment offer of Rp 80 million before making off with a Honda CRV and a pickup truck. Police have arrested the perpetrator and recovered one of the stolen vehicles.

Tri Tito Karnavian Urges New West Java PKK and Posyandu Chair to Strengthen Basic Services

Tri Tito Karnavian, Chair of the National Family Welfare Movement (TP PKK), has inaugurated Samantha Dewi Erwan Setiawan as the new head of the TP PKK and Posyandu in West Java. Tri emphasised that the role carries a strategic responsibility to enhance family empowerment and basic public services in Indonesia's most populous province. She called for institutional strengthening, cadre capacity building, and cross-sector collaboration to transform Posyandu into integrated service centres.

Israeli Attacks Kill Eight in Gaza, Including Mother and Child, Amid Fragile Ceasefire

At least eight Palestinians, including a mother and her daughter, were killed in a series of Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip on Monday. The strikes, which involved air raids, drone attacks, and artillery fire, hit civilian areas including displacement camps in Al-Mawasi and Deir al-Balah. The violence occurred despite a ceasefire that has been in place since October, with Israeli military vehicles also reportedly advancing and destroying buildings in Khan Younis and Nuseirat.

BRI Peduli Provides Entrepreneurship Training for Dozens of Former Migrant Workers in Cirebon

Bank BRI's CSR programme, BRI Peduli, has delivered entrepreneurship training to 60 former Indonesian migrant workers in Cirebon, West Java. The initiative aims to equip returning workers with business management skills to build economic resilience and develop sustainable enterprises. West Java is the largest source of migrant workers in Indonesia, with Cirebon among the top five contributing regions.

DPR Criticised for Not Publishing Cybersecurity Bill Draft

Researcher Lucius Karus has criticised the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) for withholding the draft of the Cybersecurity and Resilience Bill from the public. The DPR claims the draft is being kept confidential to prevent the spread of hoaxes, but critics argue that transparency is essential for public participation in the legislative process. The bill is considered a foundational regulation for national cybersecurity and is set to be discussed by a newly formed working committee.

BNI directs transformation to strengthen performance and competitiveness

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) is undertaking a comprehensive transformation to bolster its performance and competitiveness, aligning with the government's focus on long-term value creation through Danantara Indonesia. The state-owned bank's strategy encompasses digital capability enhancement, organisational productivity, and risk management, which contributed to a net profit of Rp20 trillion in 2025. BNI's digital platforms, wondr by BNI and BNIdirect, have seen significant user and transaction growth, supporting the bank's strong financial position into 2026.

Witnesses Claim Local Parliamentarians Had Alcohol on Their Breath While Intimidating Doctor Icha

Witnesses have alleged that two members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives reeked of alcohol when they confronted a doctor at a hospital. The incident is linked to the case of Dr. Eliza Utami Pakaenoni, known as Icha, who died by suicide, reportedly after suffering from depression caused by the intimidation. The family's spokesperson stated that 23 witnesses are prepared to testify regarding the alleged intimidation and the state of the officials.

House Speaker Demands Thorough Investigation into Doctor Icha's Death

House Speaker Puan Maharani has urged the police to fully investigate the alleged intimidation leading to the death of Dr. Eliza Princila Utama Pakaenoni in East Nusa Tenggara. The case involves three regional legislators who reportedly confronted the doctor at a hospital while under the influence of alcohol. Puan stressed that political parties have internal mechanisms to address the matter, but legal proceedings must be completed transparently.

Reopening of Strait of Hormuz Not Certain to Lower Fuel Prices in Indonesia

An economist has cautioned that the normalisation of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will not automatically lead to lower fuel prices in Indonesia. Domestic pricing is influenced by multiple factors including the Indonesian Crude Price, the rupiah exchange rate, and government intervention in subsidised fuels. The public is urged to view global energy market developments rationally, as price adjustments typically take one to three months to filter through to the national economy.

Supporters and Ojol Drivers Present Yellow Roses to Nadiem Ahead of Verdict Hearing

Supporters and online motorcycle taxi drivers presented yellow roses to former Education Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim as he arrived for his corruption verdict hearing in Jakarta. Nadiem, who faces an 18-year prison sentence demand, was visibly moved to tears by the gesture. He is accused of causing state losses of Rp2.18 trillion in a laptop procurement scheme for the Ministry of Education and Culture.

Indonesia to Launch Carbon Unit Registry System

Indonesia will launch its Carbon Unit Registry System on 9 July 2026 to enhance transparency and certainty for businesses and investors in the carbon market. The launch will coincide with the registration of internationally verified forestry carbon projects and the issuance of over 30 million tonnes of CO2e carbon credits. This move is part of a broader national push towards net-zero, which is projected to unlock USD 3.8 trillion in economic opportunities by 2050.

Creative economy flagship programs to drive GDP: Minister

Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister has outlined flagship programmes aimed at boosting the sector's contribution to gross domestic product. Initiatives such as Creative Village Activation and Creative Hubs are designed to help local businesses scale nationally and internationally, while the sector is expected to support job creation across emerging fields like blockchain and artificial intelligence. The minister expressed optimism that these efforts will help achieve the country's 8 percent economic growth target by 2029.

Palace Clarifies Prabowo's Version of Academic Freedom

The Presidential Palace has clarified President Prabowo Subianto's recent remarks on campus freedoms, emphasising that academic freedom is respected but must remain within the bounds of scholarly accountability. A senior official stated that activities in higher education are permissible as long as they can be academically justified, warning against actions that lack a basis in scientific values. The clarification follows a speech in which Prabowo likened the nation to a ship where differing views are acceptable, but stressed that academic freedom does not equate to other, unspecified liberties.

BACH Eyes IPO: Profit Engine Revs Up, but Import Reliance Poses Risk

PT Bach Multi Global Tbk (BACH) is preparing for an initial public offering on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, seeking up to Rp307.50 billion primarily to expand its genset fleet. The company has demonstrated aggressive profit growth, with return on equity reaching 29% in 2025, backed by its position within the Djarum Group's digital infrastructure ecosystem. However, investors must weigh this against rising debt levels and a heavy dependence on foreign genset principals, which exposes the firm to rupiah volatility.

The Story of Aris, a Village Head Who Encourages Fathers to Get Involved in Stunting Prevention

Aris Sugiyono, the head of Pasinggangan Village in Banyumas, Central Java, shares his personal journey of prioritising paternal involvement from pregnancy onwards, including leaving his job to support his wife. His experience aligns with local government initiatives, such as the 'Kelas Bapake Mamake' programme, which mandates husbands' attendance at maternal health appointments to help prevent stunting. The Banyumas district government collaborates with the Tanoto Foundation to strengthen family support and behavioural change communication, focusing on the critical first 1,000 days of life.

Health Minister: TB-CKG Screening in 532 Prisons Ensures Inmates' Rights

The Indonesian government has launched a nationwide tuberculosis screening and free health check-up programme targeting over 272,000 inmates and nearly 49,000 prison officers across 532 correctional facilities. The initiative, a presidential priority programme, aims to address the higher prevalence of TB in prisons and ensure inmates return to society healthy. The programme will be rolled out in stages until the end of 2026, beginning with a pilot on Nusakambangan island.

Joint Operation Seizes 80,000 Cigarettes with Counterfeit Excise Stamps in North Sumatra

A joint operation between Sibolga Customs and the Military Police in North Sumatra intercepted a commercial travel vehicle transporting 80,000 illegal cigarettes bearing counterfeit excise stamps. The seizure, valued at approximately Rp 110.4 million, prevented an estimated state revenue loss of Rp 59.68 million. Authorities emphasised the operation's role in protecting state revenue and ensuring fair competition for compliant businesses.

DPR Urges BGN to Maximise Absorption of Farmer and SME Produce for Free Nutritious Meals

The Indonesian House of Representatives has urged the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to maximise the absorption of produce from farmers and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. A senior legislator stated that empowering local producers is a core spirit of the programme and will create a multiplier effect on the grassroots economy. The government has also emphasised that governance improvements aim to ensure state budget funds are optimally targeted for nutritional impact.

Themes and Logos of Indonesia's Independence Day Over the Past Decade, 2016-2026

The Indonesian government has unveiled the theme and logo for the 81st Independence Day in 2026, designed by Fajar Novario from Padang. The theme 'Indonesia Berdaulat, Adil, dan Makmur' (Sovereign, Just, and Prosperous Indonesia) continues a tradition of annually changing visual identities that reflect the nation's developmental spirit. This article reviews the evolution of these official logos and themes over the past ten years.

Puan Unfazed by Jokowi's Political Safari, Urges Him to Maintain Conducive Situation

PDI-P chair Puan Maharani has stated she has no objection to former President Joko Widodo's political safari across various regions, asserting it is the right of every citizen. She nonetheless cautioned Jokowi to help maintain a conducive atmosphere amidst current global uncertainties. Jokowi recently revealed in Lampung that his visit was partly to show support for the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI).

Satpol PP Sends Illegal Parking Attendants in Penjaringan to Social Institution

The Penjaringan District Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) in North Jakarta has apprehended six illegal parking attendants during a public order operation. The individuals, including one woman, were caught operating without permits at several locations. They have been sent to a social institution for data collection and rehabilitation to prevent them from repeating the offence.

Coordinating Minister Airlangga says value of Indonesia-Belarus cooperation is increasing

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that trade relations with Belarus have strengthened following the signing of a cooperation agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union. He noted that 17 business-to-business memoranda of understanding were witnessed at a recent forum. Airlangga expressed hope that the upcoming state visit by the Belarusian President will further boost bilateral trade and investment to a target of 500 million US dollars.