Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 June 2026

Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,554 articles

Depok Police Seize Over 33,000 Prescription Pills from Grocery Store Front

Police in Depok, West Java, have confiscated 33,708 prescription pills sold illegally through a grocery store and a cash-on-delivery system. The operation, conducted between April and June 2026, resulted in the arrest of 34 suspects who now face up to 12 years in prison under Indonesia's Health Law. Authorities noted that while buyers cannot be prosecuted, sellers and distributors are subject to severe penalties.

Riau Police to Receive Nugraha Sakanti Honour at 80th Bhayangkara Day Peak Event

The Riau Regional Police (Polda Riau) is set to receive the Nugraha Sakanti honour, the highest presidential award for police units, during the 80th Bhayangkara Day ceremony on 1 July 2026. President Prabowo Subianto will personally confer the award to Riau Police Chief Inspector General Herry Heryawan in a central ceremony in Bogor. The award recognises the unit's exceptional dedication and service, and will be followed by a ceremonial 'Kirab Pataka' parade in Pekanbaru.

Factory Investors Flock to Secure Green Electricity in Indonesia

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources reports a surge in demand for renewable energy from industrial investors, particularly data centres and manufacturers. This trend is seen as a major investment opportunity, prompting the government to plan a massive 100 gigawatt solar power plant programme. The initiative aims to meet the clean energy requirements of industries seeking to enhance their global competitiveness.

Business Judgment Rule Diharapkan Perkuat Tata Kelola Danantara dan Menarik Investor

Penerapan prinsip Business Judgment Rule diharapkan dapat memberikan kepastian hukum bagi direksi BPI Danantara dalam mengambil keputusan bisnis profesional, sekaligus meningkatkan kepercayaan investor. Doktrin ini melindungi direksi dari tuntutan kerugian selama keputusan diambil dengan itikad baik, tanpa benturan kepentingan, dan melalui tata kelola yang benar. Para pengamat menekankan bahwa perlindungan ini harus diimbangi dengan transparansi dan akuntabilitas publik yang kuat untuk meminimalisir penyalahgunaan wewenang.

JCI Falls 2.42% in First Session as Investor Risk Appetite Remains Limited

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) slumped 2.42% in the first trading session on Tuesday, driven by persistent domestic concerns and limited risk appetite among investors. Market analyst Elandry Pratama attributed the decline to continued net foreign selling and Indonesia's reduced weighting in the MSCI Emerging Market Index. All eleven sectoral indices weakened, with the basic materials sector experiencing the steepest drop.

From Personal Experience, Casa Grata Brings Healthy Indonesian Snacks to the Global Market

Casa Grata, a Jakarta-based producer of gluten-free and vegan snacks, is expanding its international footprint, having entered markets in Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, and Canada. Founded by Jane Tanuwijaya from a family history of health challenges, the business has leveraged BRI's MSME empowerment programmes, including the UMKM EXPO(RT) and Growpreneur incubator, to scale up and secure export opportunities. The company's growth highlights the role of state-owned enterprise support in helping local health-food brands reach global consumers.

Pramono Thanks Attorney General's Office for Resolving Jakarta's Abandoned Projects

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has expressed gratitude to the Attorney General's Office for its assistance in resolving long-stalled infrastructure projects in the capital. Key projects completed include the 21-year abandoned monorail structure on Jalan HR Rasuna Said and the long-disputed Sumber Waras Hospital. The collaboration has also facilitated the completion of the LRT line from Velodrome to Manggarai, with plans to extend it to Dukuh Atas.

Nadiem Makarim: God Has Never Abandoned Me

Former Indonesian Education Minister Nadiem Makarim has declared he is ready to face the verdict in his corruption trial over a Chromebook procurement scheme. Speaking before the hearing, he stated he does not feel alone, citing family and public support as his strength. Makarim maintains his innocence and hopes his case will serve as a catalyst for reforming Indonesia's legal system.

Bali Now Connected Directly by Air with Canberra, ACT

Virgin Australia has launched a direct flight route between Canberra and Denpasar, Bali, reviving a previously operated service with three weekly flights. The new connection brings the total number of Australian cities with direct links to Bali to 12 and is expected to boost tourism and the local economy. Bali's airport authority highlighted the strong appeal of the island to Australian travellers, with over 600,000 visiting in the first five months of 2026.

Anthropic Opens AI Fellowship with Rp 1.5 Billion Salary, but Indonesians Likely Ineligible

US-based AI company Anthropic has launched a fellowship programme offering a salary of US$85,000 per year to help non-profits integrate artificial intelligence. The programme, however, is limited to placements within the United States, making it largely inaccessible to Indonesian citizens. The article contrasts this with domestic initiatives, such as a government partnership with Microsoft to train 145,000 Indonesian civil servants in AI.

Waskita Supports Consolidation of State-Owned Hotel Assets into InJourney Hospitality

PT Waskita Karya and its subsidiary have signed a conditional sale and purchase agreement to transfer hotel assets into InJourney Hospitality. The move is part of a broader state-owned enterprise restructuring effort aimed at creating a more integrated and professional hospitality ecosystem. The company emphasised the transaction would be conducted under good corporate governance principles to strengthen national economic value.

Tears Flow: Gojek Drivers Greet Nadiem at Corruption Verdict Hearing

Former Minister Nadiem Makarim arrived at the Jakarta Corruption Court to hear the verdict in the alleged corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebooks for the Ministry of Education. He was greeted by emotional Gojek drivers who presented him with floral tributes. Nadiem faces a potential 18-year prison sentence and a Rp5.6 trillion restitution payment, though he has maintained his hope for acquittal.

Cilacap Customs Destroys Rp1.3 Billion in Illegal Cigarettes

The Cilacap Customs and Excise Office has destroyed 847,064 illegal cigarettes valued at Rp1.3 billion, representing the first such operation in 2026. The destruction, carried out symbolically by burning, underscores the agency's commitment to combating illicit excisable goods and safeguarding state revenue. The seized products, originating from various enforcement operations throughout 2025, were estimated to have prevented potential state losses of Rp852 million.

Judges summarise 1,146-page verdict for Nadiem

The Jakarta Corruption Court opted to read only a summary of the verdict for defendant Nadiem Anwar Makarim, citing his ill health. The full 1,146-page ruling, which addresses alleged corruption in a Rp2.18 trillion education digitalisation project, will be made available to parties after verification. Nadiem is accused of causing state losses through the procurement of Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management licences.

Bulog opens warehouse access as public education facility

State logistics firm Perum Bulog is opening its warehouses to the public and universities to demonstrate the robustness of national rice reserves. The initiative aims to educate on the management of the Government Rice Reserve as a strategic tool for food security. Bulog also reported that its current stockpile has reached a historic high of approximately 5.4 million tonnes.

Caught on CCTV: What Was Taufik Hidayat's Purpose in Seeking Dedi Mulyadi?

Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in a kidnapping and assault case, attempted to meet West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi at his official residence in the early hours of the morning. The encounter, captured on CCTV, revealed the suspect was prepared to be imprisoned but claimed he had an urgent matter to convey to the governor first. The suspect, who was already on the police wanted list, also tried to visit the governor's private residence but was thwarted by his fearful driver.

Video: Strategy to Distribute Subsidised Fertiliser to 14 Million Farmers Accurately

The Indonesian government is implementing a '7 Rights' principle to ensure subsidised fertiliser reaches 14 million eligible farmers across 26,000 distribution points. Key challenges include the mismatch between standard 50 kg packaging and the needs of smallholders, 40% of whom farm less than 0.2 hectares. Officials are currently discussing solutions to align packaging sizes with actual farmer requirements.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister urges regions to strengthen urban food security

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has called on regional governments to prioritise urban food security to capitalise on Indonesia's demographic dividend. Speaking at a national food forum, he warned that failing to ensure access to nutritious food in cities could prevent the nation from becoming a developed country by 2040. He noted that 43.5 per cent of the population still cannot afford healthy meals, posing a risk to future economic growth.

Puan Offers Condolences for Five SPPI Deaths, Backs Managerial Training Focus

House Speaker Puan Maharani has expressed her condolences following the deaths of five participants in a military-style basic training programme for village cooperative managers. She has called for a comprehensive evaluation to prevent future tragedies and urged that the selection process focus solely on managerial training. The Ministry of Defence has since halted the military training component, redirecting the programme towards state defence and managerial preparation.

Deputy Hajj Minister Declares 2026 Aceh Debarkation Operations Officially Concluded

Deputy Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak has officially closed the 2026 Hajj operations for Aceh Debarkation following the return of the final flight group. Over 5,000 pilgrims from the province were served during the season, with the minister praising improvements in service quality. He also extended condolences for the 19 Acehnese pilgrims who passed away during the pilgrimage.

A Glimpse into West Java's Product Readiness to Penetrate the European Market via Digital Product Passport

West Java businesses are preparing to meet upcoming European Union regulations requiring a Digital Product Passport on all goods by 2030. A recent seminar in Bandung showcased a collaboration using PERURI RFID Blockchain technology to ensure product traceability, authenticity, and carbon footprint tracking. The initiative has already secured export deals for local spice and bamboo craft products to the Netherlands and Eastern Europe.

The Indonesian Student Movement and Its Relation to PMKRI's Ideological Pilgrimage

The Indonesian student movement faces a crisis of domestication and intellectual anaemia, drifting from its 1998 Reformasi roots. This article argues that the upcoming PMKRI congress in Ruteng is a crucial moment for the Catholic student organisation to spearhead a transformation based on five pillars, including cognitive sovereignty and prophetic advocacy. The movement must break free from political patronage and return to being an independent moral and intellectual compass for the nation.

Healing Forest: A Natural Way to Relieve Stress Through Forest Therapy

Forests offer more than just environmental benefits; they can significantly improve human health, particularly mental well-being. An IPB University expert highlights the concept of 'healing forest' or forest therapy, which uses natural compounds called phytoncides to reduce stress and boost immunity. The therapy requires specific conditions, such as low noise and good air quality, to be effective.

US Eyes New Treasure Trove in Asia's Largest Muslim Nation

The United States is pursuing access to vast untapped tungsten reserves in Kazakhstan, a strategic mineral vital for defence and technology sectors. The move comes as Western nations seek alternatives to Chinese supply chains, with the deal reportedly involving investors linked to President Donald Trump and his commerce secretary. The project has sparked controversy over potential conflicts of interest given the mineral's critical role in producing missile warheads and fighter jets.

BPOM Pursues Growth of Commercial Sterile Food Industry via Risk Management Programme

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) is accelerating the growth of the commercial sterile food sector by reinforcing its Risk Management Programme (PMR). The initiative aims to boost production capacity, innovation, and exports while ensuring strict food safety compliance. BPOM highlights the sector's strategic importance for disaster relief, military logistics, and expanding the global reach of traditional Indonesian cuisine.

Health Ministry: Self-sufficiency in medical device production saves state budget

Indonesia's Health Ministry reports that reducing reliance on imported endoscopes from 100 percent to 84 percent in 2025 saved the state USD 5.75 million. The government is now pushing for the domestic production of CT Scanners through technology transfer. The announcement was made at an ASEAN-Japan symposium, where Japan also reaffirmed its commitment to helping the region align with global regulatory standards.

Drought Mitigation in Central Java: 18 Vulnerable Regions and Emergency Alert Status

Central Java is mobilising significant resources to combat the onset of the dry season, with at least three regencies already experiencing water shortages. The provincial disaster agency has mapped 18 drought-prone areas, eight of which have declared an emergency alert status. Mitigation efforts include the distribution of millions of litres of clean water, the drilling of new boreholes, and a budget allocation of Rp275 million in Rembang Regency.

House Speaker Urges SPPI Cooperative Programme to Focus Solely on Managerial Training

House Speaker Puan Maharani has called for the SPPI graduate programme for the Red and White Village Cooperatives to drop military-style training and focus exclusively on managerial education. The statement follows an evaluation triggered by the deaths of five participants during basic military training. The Ministry of Defence has already halted the military drills, replacing them with state defence and managerial briefings.

Puan Maharani Responds to Jokowi's Political Safari

PDI-P chair Puan Maharani has responded to former President Joko Widodo's recent political tour, stating it is the right of every citizen to visit regions. She urged all parties to maintain a conducive situation amid global uncertainty. Golkar similarly described the tour as a citizen's right, expressing no concern over potential voter shifts ahead of the next general election.

Hajj Funds Reach Rp182 Trillion: A Sacred Trust, Who Is Fit to Safeguard It?

Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) now oversees Rp181.73 trillion in funds deposited by millions of prospective pilgrims, with waiting lists stretching up to 40 years. The sheer scale of these funds, which generated Rp12.09 trillion in value in 2025 to subsidise pilgrimage costs, underscores the critical need for independent and transparent management. As the government reforms quota distribution to standardise waiting times, the article examines how investment returns are used to significantly reduce the final costs borne by pilgrims.

DPR Approves Seven Members of Central Information Commission for 2026-2030 Term

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has formally approved seven individuals to serve as commissioners of the Central Information Commission (KIP) for the 2026-2030 period. The decision was reached during a plenary session on Tuesday, following a fit and proper test conducted by Commission I. Three alternate candidates were also selected to fill potential interim vacancies.

Thirty countries assist in post-earthquake rescue operations in Venezuela

Rescue teams from thirty nations, including newly arrived units from Vietnam and Cuba, are participating in search and rescue operations following devastating earthquakes in Venezuela. The interim government has begun structural damage assessments and is planning temporary camps and a new housing programme aiming to rehouse thousands of families by the end of 2026. The official death toll has risen to 1,719, with over 5,000 injured.

Pertamina Chief Commissioner Inspects Energy Facilities in East Java

Pertamina's Chief Commissioner, Mochamad Iriawan, conducted an inspection of key energy facilities in East Java to ensure operational reliability during the school holiday period. The visit focused on aviation fuel readiness at Juanda Airport and preparations for the upcoming B50 biodiesel launch at the Surabaya Integrated Terminal. Iriawan also stressed the importance of accelerating sustainable aviation fuel infrastructure and maintaining strict health, safety, and environmental standards.

PMI Expresses Condolences Over Venezuela Earthquake

Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) Chairman Jusuf Kalla has conveyed deep condolences following a 7.5 magnitude earthquake in Venezuela that claimed thousands of lives. While logistical and geographical constraints prevent direct aid deployment from Indonesia, PMI expressed confidence that regional Red Cross societies and neighbouring nations are providing optimal support. The disaster has prompted a national emergency in Venezuela, with the death toll rising sharply to 1,450.

House Speaker Urges SPPI KDKMP Training to Focus Solely on Managerial Skills

House Speaker Puan Maharani has called for the training of participants in the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) programme to be strictly limited to managerial education, following the deaths of several trainees. The Ministry of Defence has already halted military-style basic training and rebranded it as 'State Defence and Managerial Briefing'. The House of Representatives will oversee a comprehensive evaluation to prevent further fatalities.

Delpedro Marhaen and OC Kaligis Attend Nadiem Makarim's Verdict Hearing

Prominent figures, including Lokataru Foundation's Delpedro Marhaen and senior advocate OC Kaligis, attended the corruption verdict hearing for former minister Nadiem Makarim in Jakarta. Makarim is accused of causing state losses of Rp2.18 trillion through irregularities in a school digitalisation programme involving Chromebook procurement. The case highlights alleged misuse of funds within the Ministry of Education and Culture's technology scheme between 2019 and 2022.

2027 Hajj Costs Likely to Rise, Government Seeks to Ease Burden on Pilgrims

The Indonesian government is projecting an increase in the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage costs due to global economic pressures and Saudi Arabian policy changes. Despite rising components such as aviation fuel and accommodation, authorities are working to reverse the cost-sharing ratio so that the majority of the expenses are covered by managed Hajj funds rather than the pilgrims themselves. The move follows a presidential directive to ensure the public retains easy access to performing the pilgrimage amid challenging economic conditions.

Nadiem Makarim Hopes His Case Will Improve Indonesia's Legal System: 'The Truth Is on My Side'

Former Indonesian Education Minister Nadiem Makarim has expressed hope that his corruption trial over a Chromebook procurement programme will lead to systemic legal reform. Speaking before the verdict hearing, Makarim stated he believes the truth is on his side and that he is not alone, receiving support from family and the public. He faces an 18-year prison sentence and billions of rupiah in fines and restitution over the alleged corruption case.

Baznas Distributes 10,000 Litres of Clean Water to Earthquake Survivors in Central Sulawesi

Indonesia's National Alms Agency (Baznas) has dispatched 10,000 litres of clean water to earthquake-affected residents in Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi. The distribution is part of a rapid response to ensure survivors' basic needs are met during the emergency phase. The aid, funded by zakat, infak, and sedekah donations, aims to alleviate the burden on communities and safeguard their health during the recovery process.

Puan: Training for Village Cooperative Managers Should Focus on Managerial Skills

House Speaker Puan Maharani has urged the government to refocus training for village cooperative managers on managerial skills following the deaths of five participants during military-style basic training. She stressed that managerial ability is more crucial for their future roles and called for a comprehensive evaluation to prevent further loss of life. The Ministry of Defence has since reduced the intensity of physical and tactical military activities in the programme.

Government Holds Training and Bazaar to Boost Economy on Sabira Island

The Thousand Islands administration has organised digital marketing training and a local bazaar on Sabira Island to stimulate economic activity in the remote region. The initiative aims to enhance the capacity of 25 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to adapt to technological advancements and expand their market access. Officials hope the programme will increase sales and foster sustainable economic growth for the island community.

Attorney General and Governor Pramono Inaugurate North Jakarta Prosecutor's Office Built with Rp 100 Billion DKI Grant

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin and Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung have inaugurated the new North Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office building in Tanjung Priok, funded by a Rp 100 billion grant from the Jakarta provincial government. The Attorney General stressed that the grant would not compromise prosecutorial independence in law enforcement. The new five-storey facility replaces a 50-year-old building deemed unsafe and inadequate, with construction completed in just over seven months.

Bawaslu Urges Study of Restorative Justice in Election Law Amid New Criminal Code

Indonesia's Election Supervisory Body (Bawaslu) has called for a thorough study on applying restorative justice to electoral crimes as the Election Law is synchronised with the new Criminal Code (KUHP) and Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP). The body stresses that any legal reform must not create uncertainty but should instead strengthen the protection of democratic integrity. Bawaslu highlights the need to carefully consider the public interest and the distinct nature of electoral offences, which differ from common crimes.

Official: Bahlil Issues Regulation Mandating 'New B50 Fuel' from 1 July 2026

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has formally enacted a ministerial decree mandating a 50 percent biodiesel blend in diesel fuel, known as B50, effective 1 July 2026. The regulation accelerates the government's biofuel programme and sets out compliance standards, quality specifications, and administrative sanctions for non-compliance. It also provides a transition period allowing existing B40 stocks to be distributed until 30 September 2026.

Indonesia and Malaysia Advance Prisoner Transfer Pact Amid Broader Legal Cooperation

Indonesia and Malaysia are deepening legal cooperation with a focus on citizen protection, including a draft agreement on prisoner transfers. Jakarta has rejected a Malaysian proposal requiring its approval for any pardons granted to repatriated Indonesian prisoners, insisting clemency decisions remain a sovereign right. The pact is expected to be signed soon, alongside broader collaboration on cross-border legal issues, immigration, and human rights.

Bali Now Provides Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery

Siloam Hospitals Bali has become the first facility on the island and in Eastern Indonesia to offer robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery, utilising the CORI Robotic Surgical System. The new service aims to provide world-class orthopaedic care for patients with chronic osteoarthritis, eliminating the need to travel abroad for treatment. Hospital management stated the initiative supports Bali's ambition to strengthen its position as a leading medical tourism destination in Indonesia.

DPR Plenary Approves 7 Central Information Commission Members for 2026-2030

The House of Representatives (DPR) has formally approved seven candidates to serve as members of the Central Information Commission (KIP) for the 2026-2030 period. The selection followed a fit and proper test conducted by Commission I, which assessed 19 candidates from an initial list of 21 submitted by the President. The approved members will now be formally appointed via a Presidential Decree.

BPK Issues Unqualified Opinion on 2025 Financial Reports for 97 Ministries/Agencies, Except Bapanas

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has granted an Unqualified Opinion (WTP) on the 2025 Central Government Financial Report, reflecting improved state financial governance. The positive assessment covers 97 ministries and agencies, though the National Food Agency (Bapanas) received a Qualified Opinion (WDP). The BPK stated that the exception for Bapanas did not materially affect the overall fairness of the central government's financial report.

Jokowi's Political Safari: PDIP Urges Restraint

PDI Perjuangan chair Puan Maharani has responded to former President Joko Widodo's recent political tours with the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), calling them a constitutional right but urging restraint. She emphasised the need for political stability amid global economic and geopolitical uncertainty. The safari, which included visits to Lampung, is seen as an effort by Jokowi to maintain political relevance.

Retail Investors Can Now Analyse Shares with AI Assistance

Indonesian retail investors are gaining access to artificial intelligence tools previously reserved for large institutions, enabling them to simplify complex market data for investment decisions. PT Indo Premier Sekuritas has launched AI Analytics and Trade Flow features within its IPOT application to process financial reports, price movements, and foreign investor activity. The company aims to democratise sophisticated analysis, helping retail investors make sharper and more objective decisions.