Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 June 2026

Showing 1,451-1,500 of 1,554 articles

Yesterday: SPPI military training halted to HUT Ke-81 RI logo unveiled

The Ministry of Defence has discontinued military basic training for the Sarjana Penggerak Pembangunan Indonesia (SPPI) programme, redirecting it towards state defence and managerial preparation. Separately, the State Secretariat announced the public's choice for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day logo, designed by Fajar Novario from Padang. Other political developments included a security drill by Kopassus at the Mandalika Special Economic Zone and a DPR coordination meeting on economic growth and mitigation.

Jokowi's Buffalo Head Ritual Sparks Political Row: PDIP Laughs, PSI Defends

A traditional Lampung ritual involving former President Joko Widodo stepping on a buffalo head has ignited a political spat. The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) mocked any suggestion the act was an insult to their bull-head symbol, while the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) defended Jokowi, accusing PDIP of disrespecting local customs.

Police Open Possibility of Naming New Suspects in Taufik Hidayat Case

West Java Regional Police are investigating individuals who may have assisted Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the three-year confinement and torture of a woman identified as YTR, during his flight from justice. Investigators are examining witness accounts of frequent visitors to his rented accommodation and are prepared to apply Article 55 for aiding and abetting. Police have also uncovered allegations that Hidayat misappropriated colleagues' entitlements at his workplace, potentially leading to additional charges against him.

Earth's Rotation Slows, Paving the Way for New Life

A new study reveals that the gradual slowing of Earth's rotation over billions of years, from a six-hour day to the current 24 hours, played a crucial role in the evolution of life. Researchers found that longer days allowed photosynthetic microbes to release more oxygen, eventually leading to a significant rise in atmospheric oxygen levels. This oxygenation event, linked to a period when the day length stabilised at 19 hours, is believed to have enabled the development of complex life.

World Forum Discusses Islamic Economics, Indonesian Academic Promotes Debt-Free State Finance

An Indonesian academic has proposed an Islamic economic model to finance national development without relying on debt, presenting the concept at the SASE 2026 conference in France. The framework emphasises optimising productive assets, zakat, and waqf, alongside redistributive governance to ensure equitable wealth circulation. The proposal also suggests using artificial intelligence to enhance transparency and detect corruption in economic governance.

Global Heatwave Fuels Coal Price Rally

Coal prices rebounded after a three-day decline, driven by surging demand amid heatwaves in the US and Europe. Supply constraints, including low water levels on the Rhine and emergency measures to keep a Colorado coal plant operational, are further tightening the market. Meanwhile, China's coking coal supply remains limited following a deadly mine accident, supporting prices despite some buyer resistance.

Three Injured in Monaco Parcel Bomb Explosion

A parcel bomb explosion at a residential building in Monaco has left three people injured, two of them critically. Authorities suspect a deliberate attack, with CCTV footage showing a man placing a rucksack before fleeing towards the French border. The victims are reported to be a Ukrainian family, and an intensive police investigation is underway.

House Commission II Backs Additional Border Posts: For Sovereignty and Welfare

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission II has expressed strong support for President Prabowo Subianto's plan to build new cross-border posts (PLBN) in Kalimantan and Papua. The commission's deputy chairman argued the initiative is crucial not only for national security but also for stimulating economic growth and ensuring equitable development in frontier regions. The government currently plans to add posts along the borders with Malaysia and Papua New Guinea, citing the need to curb illegal activities and provide better public services.

Trump Updates on US-Iran War Fate, Sends Son-in-Law to Meet Tehran Officials

President Donald Trump has confirmed that the US and Iran will hold emergency talks in Doha on Tuesday, following a request from Tehran to de-escalate recent armed clashes. The negotiations will involve Trump's son-in-law and envoy Jared Kushner, as both sides observe a temporary maritime ceasefire to secure commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Verdict in Blueray Cargo Bribery Case Scheduled for 10 July

The Jakarta Corruption Court has scheduled the verdict hearing for the Blueray Cargo bribery case for 10 July 2026. The case involves the company's owner, John Field, and two other executives accused of paying Rp63.15 billion in bribes to customs officials. The bribes were allegedly paid to facilitate the smooth clearance of imported goods through the Directorate General of Customs and Excise.

Initial 2027 State Budget Draft Targets 6.5% Growth, Requires Rp8,743.45 Trillion

The Indonesian parliament's budget committee and the government have agreed on a preliminary 2027 State Budget (APBN) framework targeting economic growth between 5.8% and 6.5%. The plan outlines a total investment requirement of up to Rp8,743.45 trillion, with a strong emphasis on boosting private sector involvement and leveraging the Danantara sovereign wealth fund. Key macroeconomic assumptions include inflation of 1.5-3.5%, a rupiah exchange rate of Rp16,800-17,500 per US dollar, and a 10-year government bond yield of 6.5-7.3%.

Jakarta round-up: Ragunan visitor record, LPDP scholarship extension, and sanitation milestones

Jakarta saw a record 135,500 visitors at Ragunan Zoo during its 499th anniversary celebrations. Governor Pramono Anung also announced that recipients of the Jakarta Superior Student Card (KJMU) will be eligible for LPDP Jakarta funding to pursue master's and doctoral degrees abroad. Additionally, 194 sub-districts have been declared free from open defecation.

Health Ministry Investigates Death of Doctor Icha Following Alleged Intimidation

Indonesia's Health Ministry has launched an investigation into the death of Dr Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Dr Icha, who died after allegedly being intimidated by three regional legislators in East Nusa Tenggara. The ministry has pledged to ensure the case is thoroughly investigated and to guarantee protection for medical workers. The Indonesian Doctors Association (IDI) has called for solidarity, urging members to wear black ribbons in her memory.

Ministry of Defence Halts Military Basic Training, Replaces It with National Defence and Managerial Programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has scrapped its military basic training programme for prospective cooperative managers following the deaths of five participants. The programme will be replaced by a new curriculum focusing on national defence, discipline, and managerial skills, with tactical military activities and shooting practice removed. The ministry has pledged to conduct thorough health screenings and adapt physical training to ensure participant safety.

Winner of 81st Indonesian Independence Day Logo Competition Receives Rp 100 Million Prize

Fajar Novario, a designer from Padang, West Sumatra, has won the official logo competition for Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, securing 44.73 percent of the public vote. The Creative Economy Minister announced the winner will receive a Rp 100 million prize, while President Prabowo Subianto will also provide additional appreciation to all five finalists. The logo was selected through an online poll involving 68,569 votes, reflecting the government's initiative to involve the public in the selection process.

Nadiem Makarim Faces Verdict in Chromebook Corruption Case Today

The Jakarta Corruption Court is scheduled to deliver its verdict today for former Education Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim, who is accused of corruption in the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management systems. Prosecutors have demanded an 18-year prison sentence and the repayment of over Rp5.6 trillion in state losses and unexplained wealth. Nadiem has strongly objected to the charges, calling the prosecution deeply disappointing.

Government Places IDR 281 Trillion in State Banks, Economists Predict Easing of Interest Rate War

The Indonesian government has placed IDR 281 trillion of state funds into state-owned banks (Himbara) in a move economists believe will help ease the ongoing interbank interest rate war. The injection is expected to lower interbank rates and eventually reduce lending and deposit rates, though transmission may be gradual. The policy comes as the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) raised its guarantee rate in response to tightening liquidity and increased competition for deposits.

80 Firefighters Battle Warehouse Blaze in Cakung for Five Hours

A major fire engulfed a warehouse owned by PT Sayap Mas Utama III in Cakung, East Jakarta, requiring 80 firefighters and 16 fire engines to extinguish. The blaze, reported late Monday night, was fully extinguished by early Tuesday morning after nearly five hours of operations. No casualties were reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Middle Path for Umrah Escrow Accounts

The proposal to mandate escrow accounts in the Indonesian umrah industry has sparked fierce debate among travel operators. While designed to protect pilgrims from fraud after major scandals, many small and medium businesses fear the rigid cash flow restrictions could bankrupt healthy companies. A balanced regulatory approach is needed to safeguard pilgrims without crippling the industry that serves millions.

Constitutional Court Affirms Direct Regional Elections by the People

The Constitutional Court has ruled that the direct election of regional heads by the people will be maintained, dismissing a judicial review petition that sought clarity on the mechanism. The court stated that the existing law already adheres to general electoral principles while respecting regions with special status. The petition, filed by four university students, was rejected on the grounds that the applicants failed to demonstrate any actual or potential constitutional harm.

Trump Says US-Iran Meeting to Be Held in Qatar Today

President Donald Trump announced that Iran has requested a meeting scheduled for Tuesday in Doha, though Tehran has denied plans for direct negotiations. The development follows Iran's first talks with Oman on managing the Strait of Hormuz since a US-Iran agreement was signed. Tensions remain high after recent military exchanges and disputes over control of the strategic waterway.

LPDP Scholarship Phase II Registration Opens, Here Is the Schedule

The Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) has opened the second phase of its 2026 scholarship registration from 30 June to 31 July. The programme prioritises STEM and strategic industrial fields, allocating at least 80 per cent of awards to these areas, with the remainder for social sciences and humanities. The selection process runs through November 2026, with successful applicants beginning their studies in January 2027.

Jakarta LRT Manggarai-Dukuh Atas Route Targeted for Completion by 2029 at the Latest

The Jakarta provincial government has decided to proceed with the construction of a 2-kilometre LRT extension from Manggarai to Dukuh Atas, with Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo targeting completion by late 2028 or 2029. The project is expected to proceed swiftly as no land acquisition is required, and funding has been allocated from the current regional budget. Once connected, the total LRT Jakarta line from Kelapa Gading to Dukuh Atas will span 14.5 kilometres, significantly enhancing public transport connectivity in the capital.

Dozens of East Jakarta Firefighters Extinguish Warehouse Blaze in Cakung

A major fire at a warehouse owned by PT Sayap Mas Utama III in Cakung, East Jakarta, was successfully extinguished after a five-hour operation involving 80 firefighters and 16 fire engines. The blaze, reported late Monday night, was fully contained by early Tuesday morning with no reported casualties. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the total material losses.

West Java DPRD Supports Provincial Government Covering Medical Costs of Confinement Victim

The West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has endorsed the provincial government's decision to fully fund the medical treatment of YTR, a victim of prolonged confinement and abuse. The council also urged swift and comprehensive care, extending beyond hospitalisation to post-recovery rehabilitation. The case involves a suspect who allegedly held the victim captive for approximately three years.

Three Political Parties Respond to the Death of Doctor Icha

Three political parties have pledged disciplinary action following the death of a junior doctor in East Nusa Tenggara, who allegedly took her own life after being intimidated by local councillors. The Golkar Party, PKB, and PDIP have all stated they will summon their respective members for questioning and are prepared to issue sanctions, including dismissal, if the allegations are proven. Police are investigating the incident, which reportedly occurred when two councillors confronted Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni at a hospital while she was treating a relative.

Gold Prices Remain Under Pressure Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty and Hawkish Fed Stance

Gold prices continued to decline on Monday, breaking a recent upward trend, as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East were offset by a stronger US dollar and expectations of further interest rate hikes. The market remains sensitive to developments in the Iran conflict, which has driven up energy costs and inflation fears, while the Federal Reserve's hawkish outlook continues to dampen the appeal of the non-yielding asset. Investors are now looking ahead to key US employment data this week for further direction on monetary policy.

PGN Complies with Government Order to Lower LNG Prices

State gas distributor PGN has confirmed its readiness to implement the government's new policy reducing liquefied natural gas (LNG) prices for industrial consumers. The price for non-HGBT LNG in West Java, Banten, and Jakarta has been cut from around US$20.57 per MMBtu to US$13 per MMBtu to protect industrial competitiveness and employment. The move follows a presidential directive aimed at balancing energy affordability with supply sustainability.

2026 Western Region SMMPTN Selection Results Announced Today at 4 PM

The results of the 2026 Western Region State University Independent Selection (SMMPTN-Barat) will be released today at 4 PM Western Indonesian Time. Over 30,000 applicants completed the registration process for the consortium of state universities. Successful candidates are advised to monitor their respective university portals for re-registration and tuition fee details.

From Ambon Bay Nets to Global Markets: Maluku's Fishery Exports Surge

Maluku's fishery exports, primarily tuna and skipjack, have surged by over 37 percent to 16.54 million US dollars in early 2026, driven by demand from China. The success hinges on maintaining international quality standards and strong collaboration between traditional fishermen, processors, and quarantine authorities. This trade transforms the daily catch of small-scale fishers like La Hamid into a vital part of the global seafood supply chain.

Golkar Responds to Issue of Presidential Candidates Requiring Support from Three Parliamentary Parties

Golkar Party Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji has downplayed speculation that a new election law might require presidential tickets to be backed by at least three parliamentary parties. He noted that formal discussions on the election bill have not yet begun, while stressing the urgency of passing the legislation to provide certainty ahead of upcoming electoral stages.

Positive Sentiments Abound, but IHSG and Rupiah Face a 'Monster' from America

Indonesia's financial markets are expected to strengthen on Tuesday, buoyed by easing geopolitical tensions and a weaker US dollar. However, the rally in the rupiah and the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) faces a potential threat from upcoming US labour market data, which could fuel hawkish Federal Reserve expectations. The IHSG closed lower on Monday, while the rupiah gained against a softening dollar amid a tentative US-Iran ceasefire agreement.

Chinese Renewable Energy Firm GCL ET Explores AI Data Centre Opportunities in Indonesia

China's GCL Energy Technology is exploring the development of AI data centres in Indonesia as part of its Southeast Asian expansion strategy. The company cites Indonesia's proximity to Singapore, digital economic growth, and supportive energy resources as key attractions. GCL ET plans to integrate renewable energy sources like wind and solar with computing infrastructure to address power capacity challenges.

Seiden Law LLP: Cambodian Businessman Leak Yim Seeks Justice in U.S. Court After Being Wrongly Accused in Thailand

Cambodian businessman Leak Yim, represented by Seiden Law LLP, has filed a petition in a U.S. federal court seeking to uncover evidence he claims led to his wrongful prosecution in Thailand. The petition, filed under 28 U.S.C. § 1782, aims to compel the disclosure of allegedly false and misleading information that linked him to cyber scam centres in Asia. Yim, who denies all allegations and has never been convicted of a crime, asserts he is the victim of a politically motivated smear campaign involving media organisations and the Thai government.

Tipikor Court Besieged by Sudewo Supporters, Police Take 1.5 Hours to Evacuate Former Pati Regent

Police in Semarang required an hour and a half to evacuate non-active Pati Regent Sudewo from the Tipikor Court after his supporters blockaded the tactical vehicle transporting him. The standoff followed a scuffle between the crowd and a KPK escort officer, with supporters demanding an apology before allowing the convoy to leave.

B50 Implementation Assessed to Strengthen National Energy Security

The Indonesian government's plan to implement a 50 percent biodiesel blend (B50) starting 1 July 2026 is viewed as a strategic move to bolster national energy security. The programme builds on previous mandates that have reportedly saved billions in foreign exchange and created millions of jobs. Officials highlight the synergy between energy policy and the sustainable development of the palm oil industry.

South Jakarta Boy Dies After Falling into Hole at DKI Project Site

A four-year-old boy died after falling into a narrow, 3.7-metre-deep hole at a park construction site in Tebet, South Jakarta. The victim was trapped for over three hours before being rescued, but succumbed to his injuries en route to hospital. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung confirmed the project was initiated by the provincial government and has offered support to the grieving family.

Residents Demand Removal of Banyon Hamlet Chief in Bantul Over Certificate Fraud and Loan Allegations

Hundreds of residents in Sewon, Bantul, have protested to demand the dismissal of the Banyon hamlet chief, accusing him of misusing his position by secretly pawning a resident's land certificate for Rp48 million. The official is suspected of being trapped in online loan debt, and the village head has requested seven days to coordinate with the district government regarding the termination process.

DPR Officially Begins Discussion of Cybersecurity Bill, Submits Problem Inventory List to Government

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has formally commenced deliberations on the Cybersecurity and Resilience Bill by submitting its Problem Inventory List (DIM) to the government. The bill outlines ten key areas of regulation, including critical information infrastructure protection, international cooperation, and new criminal provisions for cyber offences. The DPR leadership has requested that draft documents remain confidential during the initial stages to prevent the spread of hoaxes.

71 Contract Employees in Kukar Education Department Suspected of Receiving Billions in Honoraria, Regent Demands Refund

The Kutai Kartanegara (Kukar) regency government is investigating alleged irregularities in the payment of honoraria to 71 non-civil servant contract employees within the Education and Culture Department. The payments, sourced from a single budget account code, are suspected to total billions of rupiah. Regent Aulia Rahman Basri has stated that all recipients and amounts have been identified and is now pursuing accountability to recover the regional financial losses.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Reminds Public Not to Immediately Trust AI-Generated Da'wah Content on Social Media

The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has cautioned the public against uncritically accepting Islamic da'wah content generated by artificial intelligence on social media. The Director of Pesantren emphasised the need for AI literacy among students and the wider community to prevent the spread of potentially misleading religious teachings. He warned that such content could undermine the traditional learning provided in Islamic boarding schools.

Russian Court Jails Three for Participating in 'International LGBT Movement'

A Russian court in Orenburg has sentenced three bar workers to prison terms ranging from two to seven years for their involvement in an 'international LGBT movement', marking the first criminal case of its kind since the Kremlin banned the community as 'extremist' in 2023. The owner, art director, and administrator of a local bar were convicted for organizing events deemed to show solidarity with non-traditional sexual orientations. The case highlights Moscow's intensifying crackdown on LGBTQ rights under the guise of promoting 'traditional values'.

GCL ET Explores Opening AI Data Centre in Indonesia

Chinese renewable energy firm GCL Energy Technology is exploring the development of an AI data centre in Indonesia as part of its Southeast Asian expansion strategy. The company views Indonesia as a key market due to its proximity to Singapore, growing digital economy, and energy resource potential. GCL ET plans to collaborate with local partners to deliver integrated solutions combining wind, solar, storage, and gas power to meet the high energy demands of AI computing.

Teochew-Dialect Chinese Film 'Dear You' Gains Popularity in Southeast Asia

The Chinese film 'Dear You', which prominently features the Teochew dialect, has become a box office hit in Singapore and Malaysia, grossing millions and resonating deeply with diaspora communities. The story, which revolves around a grandmother's decades-long wait for her husband and the cultural tradition of 'Qiaopi' remittance letters, has drawn elderly viewers back to cinemas. Despite its regional success, there are currently no plans to screen the film in Indonesia.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Heads to Strengthen Forkopimda to Maintain Regional Stability

Minister of Home Affairs Muhammad Tito Karnavian has called on regional heads to bolster coordination through the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda) to ensure public order amid ongoing demonstrations. He stressed the importance of effective communication between local governments, the police, the military, and community leaders. The ministry views Forkopimda as a strategic mechanism for monitoring and managing socio-political stability at the regional level.

China to send 100 million RMB to aid Venezuela earthquake victims

China has announced a 100 million RMB humanitarian aid package for Venezuela following two devastating earthquakes. The assistance includes emergency supplies, satellite imagery, and support for disaster relief and reconstruction efforts. Two Chinese nationals are among the confirmed dead, with President Xi Jinping expressing condolences and confidence in Venezuela's recovery.

China Adds 20 Japanese Firms to Export Control List

China has added 20 Japanese companies and institutions to its export control list, citing their involvement with dual-use goods. Beijing stated the move is a lawful and targeted response to what it described as Japan's reckless neo-militarism. The restrictions require Chinese exporters to obtain approval before supplying goods to the listed entities.

After Kopdes, Now 'Sekolah Rakyat' to be 'Mentored' by the Military

The Ministry of Social Affairs is collaborating with the Indonesian Military to deploy approximately 1,000 military academy cadets to mentor students at 178 'Sekolah Rakyat' locations. The five-day programme, starting in August 2026, aims to instil independence and discipline in boarding school life, focusing on basic skills like tidying up and uniform neatness. Officials clarified the cadets will not replace teachers but will provide guidance to prevent bullying and help students adapt to living away from their families.

Three Regional Government Buildings Worth Billions of Rupiah Abandoned in Central Lombok

Three government-owned buildings near Zainuddin Abdul Madjid International Airport in Central Lombok, valued at a combined Rp 16.8 billion, have been left derelict. The abandoned assets include a business service centre, a swiftlet nest processing facility, and a provincial government building. Officials are urging relevant agencies to find solutions to restore and operate the facilities for public service and local revenue generation.

Government Opens 150,000 Paid Internship Positions with Minimum Wage Salary

The Indonesian government has launched the second wave of its National Internship Programme (MagangHub), increasing the quota from 100,000 to 150,000 participants. The programme aims to accelerate the transition of university graduates into the workforce by providing relevant work experience and free competency certification. Registration for participants will open from 15 to 28 July 2026 via the SIAPKerja platform.