Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 June 2026

Showing 1,051-1,100 of 1,554 articles

Indonesia-Belarus Cooperation Opportunities Worth Rp8.9 Trillion: Dump Trucks and Electric Buses in Focus

Indonesia and Belarus have signed 17 memoranda of understanding, opening up trade and investment opportunities estimated at US$500 million. Key sectors include heavy agricultural equipment, mining machinery such as dump trucks, and the joint production of electric buses. The government is also pushing for the swift ratification of a trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, which could grant zero-tariff access to over 90 per cent of Indonesian products.

Police Ask Judge to Reject Roy Suryo's Pretrial Motion in Jokowi Diploma Case

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police have formally requested the South Jakarta District Court to dismiss a pretrial motion filed by Roy Suryo, arguing that the search of his residence and his subsequent arrest were conducted in full compliance with legal procedures. The police detailed that the search on 18 June 2026 was authorised by a warrant from the Tangerang District Court and carried out in the presence of local witnesses. Suryo is being investigated over allegations of spreading false information regarding the authenticity of former President Joko Widodo's academic diploma.

Puan Maharani Urges Jokowi to Keep Political Climate Cool

House Speaker Puan Maharani has called on former President Joko Widodo to help maintain a conducive political atmosphere amid global uncertainty, following his recent political safari to Lampung. While acknowledging that political visits are every citizen's right, she stressed the importance of keeping the situation calm. Jokowi's trip included receiving a traditional honorary title, which his party says was initiated by the local community.

DPR Approves 15 District/City Bills for Further Deliberation

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has approved 15 bills concerning the establishment of districts and cities in Kalimantan to proceed as DPR-initiated legislation. The approval was granted during a plenary session led by Speaker Puan Maharani after all eight party factions submitted their views in writing. The bills, originally proposed by Commission II, cover various regions in West, Central, and South Kalimantan and were drafted with meaningful public participation involving local governments, academics, and communities.

Welcoming the 80th Bhayangkara Day, Bali Police Provide SKCK Services at Renon CFD

The Bali Regional Police are providing Police Record Certificate (SKCK) services during the Car Free Day event at Renon Field, Denpasar, as part of the 80th Bhayangkara Day celebrations. The initiative aims to bring police services closer to the public by offering an integrated online registration system to reduce queues. The police have urged the public to follow official procedures and avoid using middlemen, emphasising their commitment to transparent and professional service.

Sri Lanka Cuts Fuel Prices After US-Iran War Halted

Sri Lanka has reduced fuel prices by up to six per cent following a sharp decline in international energy costs after the United States and Iran agreed to talks. The state-owned petroleum corporation cut diesel and petrol prices, offering relief to the import-dependent nation. The government had previously warned the IMF that sustained high energy prices could derail its fragile economic recovery from its worst-ever crisis.

Jakarta to build bridges on Rasuna Said featuring 'love lock' facilities

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has announced plans to construct two pedestrian bridges over the river on Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said, which will include designated areas for 'love locks'. The initiative is part of a broader vision to make the recently renovated thoroughfare a new landmark for the capital. The 3.8 km road upgrade, which cost approximately Rp91 billion, included pavement improvements and the removal of 109 monorail pillars.

Puan says political safaris are every citizen's right in response to Jokowi's visits

House Speaker Puan Maharani stated that conducting political safaris is the right of every citizen, responding to former President Joko Widodo's recent regional tours. She urged all parties to engage in activities that cool the political climate amid global uncertainty. Jokowi has been visiting regions like Lampung and Central Java to attend Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) events and meet volunteers.

Beyond Oil: Pertamina's Portfolio of Green Energy Projects

Pertamina New and Renewable Energy is accelerating Indonesia's energy transition with a series of green projects, including geothermal expansion and bioethanol production. The state-owned enterprise is developing a multi-feedstock bioethanol plant in Banyuwangi and reactivating a cassava factory in Lampung to reduce fuel imports. The initiatives also include pioneering biomethanol from palm oil effluent and trialling wood pellets as an LPG alternative for small businesses.

BPK grants unqualified opinion on 2025 Central Government Financial Report

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has awarded an unqualified opinion (WTP) to the 2025 Central Government Financial Report (LKPP), reflecting improved state financial governance. Only the National Food Agency (Bapanas) received a qualified opinion, though the BPK stated this did not materially affect the overall fairness of the LKPP. The BPK also highlighted the need for strengthened governance of state-owned enterprises following recent legal changes and urged the development of a unified national socio-economic database to improve welfare programme targeting.

Customs Strengthens Regional Ties at 35th ASEAN Directors-General Meeting

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs and Excise participated in the 35th ASEAN Directors-General of Customs Meeting in Cambodia to bolster regional customs cooperation. Key discussions focused on digitalisation, the ASEAN Single Window, and enhanced trade facilitation. Indonesia was also re-elected as Chair of the Technical Sub-Working Group on Classification for the 2026–2027 period.

Pertamina Strengthens Distribution to Ensure Energy Reaches Remote Areas

State-owned energy firm Pertamina has reinforced its nationwide distribution network to guarantee fuel and LPG supplies reach Indonesia's outermost, frontier, and underdeveloped regions. The company reported distributing millions of kilolitres of subsidised fuel and millions of metric tonnes of 3-kg LPG canisters throughout 2025. This effort is supported by extensive infrastructure, including over 15,000 fuel outlets, a dedicated shipping fleet, and programmes like 'BBM Satu Harga' to equalise prices across the archipelago.

KAI Jakarta to Close 31 Illegal Railway Crossings in 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Jakarta Operational Area 1 will shut 31 illegal railway crossings in 2026 to reduce accident risks. The closures target high-risk points lacking safety features such as barriers and warning signs. The initiative is accompanied by public safety education campaigns conducted with local authorities and police.

DPR to Summon Defence Ministry Over Deaths of Five Cooperative Manager Trainees

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is set to summon the Ministry of Defence and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) following the deaths of five participants during a military-style basic training programme for village cooperative managers. The deaths have sparked widespread criticism, with civil society groups and lawmakers calling for the programme's suspension and a thorough investigation. The Ministry of Defence has responded by reducing the intensity of physical and tactical activities, stating that participants with known health risks were already marked to avoid excessive physical exertion.

Indonesia's shrimp exports to Saudi return to normal after ban lifted

Saudi Arabia has lifted its suspension on shrimp imports from four Indonesian companies, restoring normal trade after Jakarta addressed contamination concerns. The ban was initially imposed following a US FDA alert over traces of Cesium-137, prompting Indonesia to establish a task force and implement mandatory radiation screening for exports. The decision reflects restored international confidence in Indonesia's food safety oversight and is expected to bolster bilateral trade in fishery products.

Iran Demands US Unfreeze Rp 107 Trillion in Assets Held in Qatar

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly demanded the United States honour a previous agreement by releasing US$6 billion in frozen Iranian assets held in Qatar. The call comes amid renewed tensions and mutual attacks that threaten a recently signed memorandum of understanding aimed at ending hostilities. The funds represent half of the total US$12 billion in Iranian assets reportedly held in the Gulf state, which has been a key mediator.

CCTV Captures Taufik Hidayat Seeking Dedi Mulyadi Before Arrest

Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in a kidnapping and assault case, attempted to meet West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi at the official residence hours before his arrest. CCTV footage confirmed the suspect arrived at Gedung Pakuan in the early morning, expressing a desire to convey something before being taken into custody. The Governor has also assured that the provincial government will fully support the victim's medical treatment and recovery.

Curbing Consumerism: Pegadaian Encourages Young Generation to Consider Gold Savings

State-owned pawnshop PT Pegadaian is actively targeting younger generations to shift from consumer spending to gold savings, highlighting its benefits as a safe-haven investment and liquid asset. The company reports significant uptake among millennials and Gen Z, with digital gold savings reaching a valuation of over Rp52 trillion. Pegadaian offers accessible schemes like gold instalment plans to attract those with limited funds.

How Plain Cigarette Packaging Could Devastate the Industry, Mass Layoffs Looming

Indonesia's Ministry of Health is drafting a regulation to standardise tobacco packaging, including the use of a plain dark colour, sparking intense debate. While proponents view it as a necessary public health measure to curb youth smoking, critics warn of severe economic repercussions, including potential mass layoffs. The proposed policy mirrors plain packaging laws already implemented in countries like Australia and the UK, raising questions about its effectiveness and proportionality within the Indonesian context.

Contraceptive Gap in Indonesia Between Women and Men

Indonesia faces a significant gender gap in contraceptive use, with women bearing the overwhelming burden. Data shows only around one million men use contraception compared to 25 million active female users, largely due to limited male options. Officials are calling for greater male involvement in family planning to prevent health risks like stunting linked to short birth intervals.

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

Reno Candra Sangaji, the former village head of Condongcatur in Sleman, has been formally detained by the Yogyakarta Special Region Police for allegedly misappropriating village treasury land. The suspect is accused of renting out approximately 1,900 square metres of land to 17 tenants without the required permit from the Governor, causing state losses of over Rp 1.7 billion. He faces charges under Indonesia's anti-corruption law.

Pursuing Self-Sufficiency by 2027, Indef: Government Must Reform Salt Import Governance

The Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) has warned that Indonesia's target to halt salt imports by 2027 is unattainable without a transparent and verifiable national salt balance sheet. The think tank highlighted that current import policies risk exceeding real demand and are prone to misuse, urging the government to base imports strictly on accurate industrial needs. Despite a presidential regulation aimed at accelerating national salt development, Indef stressed that local producers capable of meeting quality standards must be objectively accounted for to prevent overly lenient import quotas.

Indonesia Requires Foreign Executives at State Firms to Declare Assets

Indonesia's anti-corruption agency has mandated that foreign nationals in top management at state-owned enterprises must submit asset declarations, classifying them as state officials under national law. The KPK provided this clarification after meeting with sovereign wealth fund Danantara, which will now strictly monitor compliance across all state firms. The move aims to bolster transparency and accountability within the public corporate sector as part of broader governance reforms.

Constitutional Court Rejects Dharma Pongrekun's Challenge to Health Law

The Constitutional Court has dismissed a judicial review filed by former Deputy Head of BSSN Dharma Pongrekun against provisions of the Health Law. The court ruled that the articles governing the minister's authority to declare an extraordinary event (KLB) and penalise obstruction are constitutional. It emphasised that these measures are essential for protecting public health and safety during outbreaks.

Raffi Ahmad and Fellow Influencers Face Growing Financial Strain, Signs Already Emerging in America

The global creator economy is becoming increasingly challenging as market saturation and stricter platform payment policies shrink individual incomes. Data shows a growing majority of content creators earn below a living wage, with even top Indonesian influencers like Raffi Ahmad needing to diversify their income streams. The trend, which began in the United States, is now significantly impacting the estimated 3.5 million active creators in Indonesia.

A look inside Semarang's Dharma Daycare, designed to support child development

The Dharma Wanita Persatuan (DWP) of Central Java has launched a daycare facility in Semarang aimed at supporting the growth and development of children. The service is specifically designed to assist civil servants within the provincial government by providing a safe and nurturing environment. The initiative allows parents to focus on their work, knowing their children are receiving proper care and stimulation.

More Than 30 Countries Involved in Venezuela Rescue Operation

Over 30 nations have deployed rescue teams to assist Venezuela following a series of devastating earthquakes. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez confirmed that international crews are supporting search and rescue efforts while the government assesses damage and plans new housing for displaced families. The death toll has surpassed 1,700, with thousands more injured.

Minister says majority of ride-hailing platforms agree to 8 percent commission cut

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has stated that most major ride-hailing companies, including Grab, GoTo, and Maxim, are prepared to implement a new policy capping driver commissions at a maximum of eight percent. The policy, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, is set to take effect on 1 July 2026. Only InDrive is still assessing the business impact of the reduction from its current rate of around ten percent.

BTN: SAL Placement Maintains Stable Liquidity Amid Economic Challenges

State-owned Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has welcomed the government's decision to re-place excess budget funds (SAL) with state banks, viewing it as a strategic move to maintain stable liquidity. The fresh injection significantly increases the total SAL funds managed by BTN, providing a stimulus for more aggressive yet measured lending. The bank is committed to channelling the funds into sectors with a high multiplier effect, particularly housing, while adhering to prudential banking principles.

How Telkomsel Is Optimising Growth in the Advertising Industry

Telkomsel Enterprise, through its TADEX platform, has introduced the Telkomsel AdTech Solution (TAS) to help businesses better understand audiences and run more measurable digital campaigns. The state-owned operator aims to support advertisers and publishers in adapting to fragmented consumer behaviour across multiple platforms. The initiative focuses on leveraging audience intelligence and integrated activation to drive a more sustainable and effective digital advertising ecosystem in Indonesia.

IHSG Plunges 2.42% Amid Thin Trading and Rating Downgrade Fears

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell sharply by 2.42% to 5,679.75 on Tuesday, with thin trading volume dominated by just two stocks. Analysts attributed the decline to lingering negative sentiment over a potential market status downgrade by global rating agencies and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The market is also awaiting the outcome of S&P's rating review as the first half of the year closes.

Earthquake Damage Impact Far More Extensive Than Scientists Previously Thought

A new geological study has revealed that the destructive reach of earthquakes extends far beyond previously predicted danger zones. Researchers found that certain seismic waves can trigger structural damage at distances once considered safe, due to local soil characteristics amplifying secondary vibrations. The findings serve as a stark warning for civil engineering and urban planning, suggesting current earthquake-resistant building standards and risk assessment models may need urgent revision.

Untar Doctor Develops Floating Breakwater to Mitigate High Wave Impact

A doctoral graduate from Tarumanagara University has developed an experimental floating breakwater model as a cost-effective alternative for protecting deep-sea ports in Indonesia. The research, which focused on Linau Port in Bengkulu, found that a catenary mooring system significantly reduced wave energy transmission. The findings are intended to provide input for the Ministry of Transportation in developing port infrastructure in deep-water areas.

Dua Lipa Opens Library to Protect Banned Books

Singer Dua Lipa has expanded her literary platform Service95 by opening a permanent physical library in Porto, Portugal. The Manifesto Library, housed in the historic Livraria Lello, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating contemporary works that have been banned or censored. The initiative aims to provide a safe space for critical thought and challenge the suppression of ideas.

LNG price cuts a welcome boost for industries: Ministry

The Indonesian government has reduced industrial LNG prices to US$13 per MMBtu to ease energy costs and protect manufacturing competitiveness. The Industry Ministry welcomed the move, stressing that reliable and uncurtailed gas supply under the AGIT scheme is critical for sustaining investment and preventing layoffs. The policy follows coordination between the government, parliament, and industry stakeholders in response to surging global gas prices.

Govt prepares weather modification operation to tackle drought in Java

The Indonesian government is planning a weather modification operation across Java in early October to mitigate an anticipated water deficit threatening major reservoirs and agriculture. Coordinated with the National Disaster Mitigation Agency, the intervention aims to increase rainfall as the peak of the El Niño-induced drought is forecast for August and September. The operations will also target Lake Toba and reservoirs in Central Sulawesi to support water reserves and reduce the risk of forest fires.

East Kalimantan Opens Study Opportunities in Cairo Through Free Education Programme

The East Kalimantan provincial government has allocated IDR 1.5 trillion for a free education programme that includes opportunities to study abroad. Governor Rudy Mas'ud highlighted Al-Azhar University in Cairo as a strategic destination, with each student receiving IDR 13 million per year in financial support. The initiative aims to equip the region's youth with transformative knowledge and strengthen their moral character.

Khofifah and PPPA Minister Launch 'Pelita ASN' to Strengthen Civil Servant Family Resilience

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa and Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifatul Choiri Fauzi have launched the 'Pelita ASN' programme, an integrated assistance and service initiative aimed at bolstering family resilience among civil servants. The programme provides a preventive consultation space for ASN to address family issues before they escalate into conflict or divorce. The launch coincided with National Family Day and included the signing of a joint agreement with the Surabaya High Religious Court and the BKKBN to strengthen synergy in family support services.

Viral Video of Funeral Mass Prohibition in Depok Resolved Peacefully by Police and Military

A viral video showing the disruption of a Catholic requiem mass at a home in Cipayung, Depok, has been resolved through mediation by the police and military. Authorities attributed the incident to a miscommunication between residents and the bereaved family. Local officials confirmed the neighbourhood unit head was out of town at the time and the situation was settled amicably.

324 Civil Servants in Karangasem to Retire in 2026, Regional Government Fears Staff Shortage

Karangasem Regency in Bali is facing a potential staffing crisis as 324 civil servants are set to retire throughout 2026. The regional government is awaiting confirmation from the central government regarding new civil service candidate formations to fill the vacancies. Officials warn that without new recruitment, the shrinking workforce could significantly impact public service delivery.

Pramono to Build 'Love Lock' Bridge in Rasuna Said Area

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans to construct a pedestrian bridge featuring a 'love lock' theme in the HR Rasuna Said area of South Jakarta. The bridge will be built on a site previously occupied by a stalled monorail project, which has now been successfully redeveloped. Pramono credited the completion of the long-abandoned project to legal support from the Attorney General's Office.

Baznas and Religious Affairs Ministry to Optimise Counsellors for Zakat Literacy

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) is partnering with the Ministry of Religious Affairs to deploy 25,000 civil servant religious counsellors to boost public understanding of zakat. The initiative aims to bridge the vast gap between the country's zakat potential of Rp327 trillion and the current collection of just Rp44 trillion. The programme will also target newlywed couples eligible for zakat to strengthen economic empowerment from the outset.

Constitutional Court Rejects Judicial Review of Regional Election Law: Direct Elections Remain in Place

The Constitutional Court has dismissed a judicial review petition filed by students challenging the phrase 'directly' in the Regional Election Law. The court ruled that the current factual mechanism for electing regional heads is already conducted directly by the people, meaning the petitioners' constitutional rights were not harmed. The decision reaffirms the existing direct election system while acknowledging special autonomy arrangements for certain regions.

Hundreds of Prospective Students Fail to Re-register, UGM Increases Independent Pathway Quota

Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) will reallocate unfilled seats from the national test-based selection (SNBT) to its independent admission pathway after 138 prospective students failed to re-register. The policy aligns with a ministerial regulation on state university admissions. A total of 10,411 regular and 1,234 international undergraduate programme students have been accepted for the current academic year.

Jakarta Collection Portal Launches, Integrating Thousands of Artefacts from Eleven Museums

The Jakarta provincial government has launched the Koleksi Jakarta portal, a digital platform integrating nearly 1,500 artefacts from 11 municipal museums. Developed in collaboration with Southeast Asia Museum Services (SEAMS), the initiative aims to improve public access and modernise collection management. The project addresses previous challenges such as analogue record-keeping and a lack of standardised data between institutions.

Airlangga Optimistic Business Sector Still Keen to Expand

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto expressed confidence that Indonesian businesses remain eager to expand, citing nearly full occupancy in several Special Economic Zones. His remarks follow a Kadin survey indicating only 39% of entrepreneurs are ready to invest in the next six months, despite 71% believing pro-growth policies can strengthen the real sector. The business chamber has urged the government to better communicate the private sector's crucial role and to involve it more in state programmes.

Inhumane Hajj Pilgrimage During the Dutch East Indies Era: Pilgrims Extorted, Quarantined, and Stripped

The Hajj pilgrimage from the Dutch East Indies in the early 20th century was a harrowing ordeal marked by systematic mistreatment. Pilgrims endured extortion, forced quarantine in North Africa with minimal food and saltwater baths, and degrading strip searches upon their return at Onrust Island. The severity of these conditions prompted Islamic scholars in Java to issue a fatwa exempting women from the obligation of Hajj due to the inhumane treatment suffered en route.

Judge Summarises Nadiem Makarim Verdict Reading from 1,146 to 122 Pages

The Jakarta Corruption Court condensed the reading of former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim's verdict due to his health condition, presenting only 122 essential pages out of 1,146. Makarim is accused of corruption in a school digitalisation programme involving Chromebook procurement, allegedly causing state losses of Rp2.18 trillion. The full verdict document remains accessible to all parties through the court's integrated service system.

Foreign Capital Inflow of USD 9 Billion, Positive Signal at June 2026

Bank Indonesia reported that foreign capital inflows into SRBI and SBN instruments reached approximately USD 9 billion by late June 2026, driven by a 100-basis-point rate hike to 5.75 per cent. The central bank's policy adjustments have enhanced the appeal of domestic financial assets amid global uncertainty, while also expanding monetary operations to stabilise the rupiah. The rising share of non-resident holdings in SRBI indicates growing offshore confidence in Indonesia's financial markets.

Pramono Targets Long-Delayed Sumber Waras Hospital Construction to Begin in August

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced that the groundbreaking for the Sumber Waras Hospital, stalled for 14 years, is scheduled for August 2026. The project, which has been unresolved through multiple previous administrations, is being prepared as an international-standard facility. Pramono has also proposed the hospital be designated a national strategic project, with completion targeted for 2028.