Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 July 2026

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Mark Rutte Praises Trump at Ankara NATO Summit: Diplomatic Strategy or Submission?

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte lavished praise on US President Donald Trump at the Ankara summit, crediting him with a 'Trump Trillion' in increased defence spending by allies. Rutte's approach of using flattery to manage Trump's confrontational stance towards members like Spain and Denmark has drawn criticism from security experts. Analysts question whether this strategy yields tangible benefits for the alliance or signals weakness to adversaries like Russia.

Indonesia Targets Domestic Production of RON 95 Petrol to End Imports

The Indonesian government is aiming to domestically produce high-octane fuels, including RON 95 petrol, to eliminate the country's reliance on imports. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the plan follows the successful halt of diesel imports through the B50 biodiesel programme. The government is targeting self-sufficiency in petrol by 2028 and in aviation fuel by the end of 2026, relying on upgraded national refineries and biofuel blending.

Kemkomdigi: Success of One Data Indonesia Bill Depends on Village Data Quality

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has stressed that the success of the One Data Indonesia Bill hinges on the quality of data collected at the village and sub-district levels. The ministry advocates for a simple, secure digital system that does not overburden village officials. The proposed legislation aims to establish a unified, interoperable government digital ecosystem with clear roles for all institutions.

Indonesia to Receive Rp 360 Trillion Investment Influx, Including from Nvidia

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto announced that Indonesia is set to attract up to US$20 billion in data centre investments, with capacity expected to grow by 1.3 gigawatts. Key investors include US tech giant Nvidia, partnering with Australian entities, alongside domestic investment from Telkom. The government is also collaborating with UK-based Arm Ltd to develop human resources, targeting 15,000 Indonesian engineers to join the semiconductor ecosystem.

100kg Active Bomb Found in Blitar, Suspected Wartime Relic

An active 100-kilogram aircraft bomb, believed to be a remnant from past wars, was discovered in a river in Blitar, East Java. The explosive device, found buried under large rocks, was safely extracted and disposed of by a joint police and bomb disposal team. Authorities have urged the public to immediately report any similar suspicious objects to the police via the 110 hotline.

Jakarta's Labour-Intensive Programme Draws 132,627 Applicants for 2,843 Positions

The Jakarta provincial government's labour-intensive job programme has been overwhelmed with 132,627 applicants vying for just 2,843 positions. Governor Pramono Anung stated the recruitment process is transparent and designed as a social safety net amid current economic pressures. The first two phases have seen over 55,000 applicants pass the administrative screening, with selection results for the second phase still being compiled.

Narita Airport Operator Begins Land Acquisition for New Runway

The operator of Japan's Narita International Airport has agreed to initiate compulsory land acquisition procedures to advance a delayed runway expansion project. The expansion, driven by surging foreign tourist arrivals, still faces opposition from some landowners, with 4.8 per cent of the required land yet to be secured. The project aims to double the airport's capacity to 500,000 annual take-off and landing slots.

Prabowo urges state apparatus to reform, says public will not tolerate corruption

President Prabowo Subianto has called on all state officials, from bureaucrats to military and police, to reform themselves and uphold their duty as public servants. He stressed that the people do not want corruption or fraud to be tolerated. The President also warned that law enforcement against corruption must apply equally to all, regardless of wealth or power.

Why Trucks and Buses Struggle to Get Subsidised Diesel

A shortage of subsidised diesel is disrupting logistics and intercity bus services across several Indonesian islands, including Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi. Transport associations attribute the recurring crisis to the ineffective implementation of the MyPertamina barcode system, reduced supply volumes to petrol stations, and suspected misuse by the mining and plantation sectors.

West Jakarta Police arrest two armed drug offenders in Tambora

West Jakarta Metro Police have apprehended two men suspected of drug abuse and possession of a sharp weapon during a mobile patrol in Tambora. The suspects, along with evidence including methamphetamine, have been handed over to the narcotics unit for further investigation. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to suppress street crime and ensure public safety during late-night hours.

JK and Jimly Remember Rachmat Gobel: A Warm Figure Who Was Always Punctual

Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla and former Constitutional Court Chief Justice Jimly Asshidiqie paid their final respects to NasDem Party politician Rachmat Gobel at his funeral. Kalla remembered Gobel as a diligent and punctual individual with a strong educational background from his years abroad. Jimly highlighted Gobel's ability to connect with people from all walks of life, noting the significance of his passing on a Friday before dawn.

Strengthening the National Ship Component Industry Through PIKKI-PT PAL Collaboration

The Indonesian Ship Component Industry Association (PIKKI) and state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL Indonesia have held a business discussion aimed at optimising the domestic maritime support industry. The meeting, which also involved classification society BKI, focused on enhancing the competitiveness of local component manufacturers through innovation, quality assurance, and supply chain integration. The collaboration is intended to bolster national maritime sovereignty and reduce reliance on imports.

Tri Tito Calls on PKK to Proactively Support Government Priority Programmes

Tri Tito Karnavian, Chairwoman of the Family Welfare and Empowerment Movement (PKK), has urged regional PKK administrators to actively support government priority programmes, particularly in health services and community economic empowerment. Speaking at an event in Makassar, she highlighted the organisation's unique legal standing under a presidential regulation, which allows it to receive state and regional budgets. Tri Tito also encouraged stronger collaboration with local governments, professional organisations, and the private sector to enhance public access to healthcare and boost micro, small, and medium enterprises.

Maluku Provincial Government Makes Ambon a Pilot City for Leprosy Elimination

The Maluku Provincial Government has designated Ambon as a pilot area to accelerate leprosy elimination, targeting both medical treatment and social stigma. Maluku has one of the highest proportions of new leprosy cases nationally, with a prevalence of 11.97 per 100,000 people. The initiative will begin in Ambon in 2026 before expanding to all districts and cities in the province by 2027.

Ahead of Peak Dry Season, Health Ministry Warns of Respiratory Infection Risks

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has urged the public to be vigilant against acute respiratory infections (ISPA) as the country enters the peak of the dry season, expected from July to September 2026. The ministry warns that the transition to hotter-than-usual weather can trigger health issues, particularly for those working outdoors. Citizens are advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle and pay close attention to environmental hygiene and sanitation to prevent the spread of disease.

Family Lineage of Rachmat Gobel: Not from Ordinary Stock, Descended from Nobility

The late Rachmat Gobel, a prominent Indonesian businessman and politician, hailed from a family with a deep historical legacy. Beyond being the heir to the Gobel Group electronics empire, he was a direct descendant of the Sultanate of Bolango in Gorontalo. His life reflected a blend of industrial pioneering and aristocratic heritage.

Indonesia and Kazakhstan Strengthen Industrial Cooperation

Indonesia and Kazakhstan have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on industrial cooperation during the INNOPROM 2026 exhibition in Russia, marking a significant step in expanding industrial diplomacy and supply chain integration. Bilateral trade has shown strong growth, with non-oil and gas trade surging over 62 percent in early 2026, and both nations are pushing for the ratification of the Indonesia-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement. The partnership aims to boost collaboration in sectors such as machinery, automotive, and digital transformation, while improving market access for Indonesian palm oil, electronics, and footwear.

Son Reveals Rachmat Gobel Had No History of Illness Before Passing, Died Peacefully

Mohammad Arif Gobel, son of the late NasDem Party politician Rachmat Gobel, has stated that his father had no prior medical conditions before his death. The senior member of the Indonesian House of Representatives passed away peacefully in Jakarta on Friday, 10 July 2026. The family described his passing as a profound loss, remembering him not only as a father but as a mentor and teacher to the entire family.

Mualem Officially Backs Nurdiansyah Alasta to Lead Aceh's Democratic Party, Citing Capacity and Service Record

Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf, known as Mualem, has formally endorsed Nurdiansyah Alasta for the chairmanship of the Democratic Party's Aceh regional board ahead of the local party congress. Mualem highlighted Alasta's communication skills, organisational experience, and his track record of overseeing strategic programmes in infrastructure, education, and social development. The endorsement adds to the majority support Alasta has already secured from the party's district branches across the province.

Good News! Car Sales 'Explode', Indonesian Consumers and Dealers Flock to Buy New Vehicles

Indonesia's automotive industry showed a strong recovery in June 2026, with both wholesale and retail car sales surging by double digits compared to the previous year. The positive monthly performance helped lift cumulative sales for the first half of 2026, with wholesales reaching 436,564 units and retail sales hitting 433,848 units. The data indicates sustained domestic demand despite earlier challenges such as weakened purchasing power and high interest rates.

IHSG Closes Higher Ahead of Weekend, Tracking Asian Markets

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) ended the week on a positive note, rising 0.20 per cent to 5,924.36, buoyed by a regional rally. Sentiment was lifted by reports that the United States and Iran will continue peace negotiations, easing supply disruption fears. The IMF also projected stable economic growth for Indonesia at 5.0 per cent in 2026.

President scheduled to attend peak of National Cooperative Day

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to attend the 79th National Cooperative Day commemoration in Jakarta on 12 July, signalling the government's commitment to strengthening the cooperative movement. The event at Indonesia Arena is expected to draw around 20,000 participants. A follow-up fun run and cooperative product exhibition will be held on 19 July along Jalan HR Rasuna Said.

USU Professor: B50 Biodiesel Feasible for Diesel Vehicles with Strict Quality Control

A professor from the University of North Sumatra has stated that B50 biodiesel is technically feasible for use in diesel vehicles and generators, citing positive results from multi-sector testing. However, he stressed that its implementation must be accompanied by rigorous quality control and technical monitoring due to the diverse conditions of existing diesel engines. While a slight increase in fuel consumption is expected, the national benefits of foreign exchange savings and import substitution remain significant.

West Java Courts Malaysian Investment, Offering Patimban Port and Kertajati Airport

The West Java provincial government is actively seeking new investment from Malaysia, particularly from the state of Selangor, during the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) ASEAN 2026. Key strategic projects being offered include Patimban Port, Kertajati International Airport, and several toll roads. The initiative builds on existing strong economic ties, with Malaysian investment in West Java reaching IDR 47 trillion.

US Oil Reserves Hit Lowest Level Since 1983 Amid Iran Conflict: What Are the Impacts?

The United States' Strategic Petroleum Reserve has fallen to its lowest level since 1983, dropping to 319.5 million barrels following sustained releases. The depletion comes amid heightened tensions with Iran, raising concerns about global supply stability and potential price spikes. Experts warn that further drawdowns could signal a deeper crisis, exacerbating market volatility and increasing costs for consumers worldwide.

Purbaya Reveals State Cash Management Strategy Can Activate 90% of Economy

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has outlined a new fiscal strategy that leverages state cash management to boost economic growth beyond direct government spending. He noted that direct state expenditure only accounts for 7-10% of economic activity, prompting the government to optimise cash reserves to strengthen banking liquidity and stimulate private sector lending. The approach involves placing government funds with commercial banks to ensure credit flows to the real economy.

Smiles in Surabaya as Students Receive Free School Supplies Ahead of New Academic Year

The Surabaya city government has distributed free school supply packages to senior high school students from underprivileged families ahead of the new academic year. The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on parents and ensure equal access to education. The packages included uniforms, scout uniforms, shoes, and socks.

Israel claims to have shared intelligence on alleged Iranian plot to kill Trump

Israel has reportedly shared new intelligence with the United States alleging an Iranian plot to assassinate President Donald Trump. The information, disclosed by The Wall Street Journal, threatens to escalate already heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran. The alleged plot is linked to Iran's long-standing vow to avenge the 2020 US killing of Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani.

East Nusa Tenggara Police Question Three Family Members of Doctor Icha in Kupang

East Nusa Tenggara Regional Police have questioned three family members of the late Doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Doctor Icha, as part of an investigation into her death. The doctor was found dead in an apparent suicide after allegedly facing intimidation from three local parliamentarians while treating a snakebite patient. The family's legal representative accompanied them during the examination at the Directorate for Women and Children Protection and Human Trafficking Prevention.

Prabowo opens five dams to bolster food, water security

President Prabowo Subianto has inaugurated five dams across Indonesia, marking a significant investment in the nation's water infrastructure. The projects aim to enhance food security, provide raw water, and support flood control and renewable energy development. The President stressed the importance of professional operation and maintenance to ensure farmers receive reliable irrigation, underscoring that food production is essential for national sovereignty.

Victim who drowned in West Jakarta's Banjir Kanal Barat found dead

A joint search and rescue team recovered the body of 26-year-old Ahmad Suwandi from the Banjir Kanal Barat canal in West Jakarta on Friday morning. The warehouse worker had been missing since Wednesday night after reportedly jumping into the water to escape a group of unidentified pursuers. Authorities have handed the body over to the family following the recovery operation.

Pariaman receives aid for renovation of 584 uninhabitable homes in 2026

The city of Pariaman is set to receive a government grant to renovate 584 uninhabitable houses (RTLH) in 2026, sourced from the Ministry of Housing and Regional Settlement and the West Sumatra provincial government. The programme, which provides Rp20 million per house, prioritises low-income residents listed in the National Socio-Economic Data registry. Officials noted that while the quota is substantial, 84 homes still remain unaccommodated this year.

Dekranas Chief Urges Artisans to Develop Sustainable Products

The Daily Chair of the National Crafts Council (Dekranas), Tri Tito Karnavian, has called on Indonesian artisans and MSMEs to innovate towards sustainable craft products to meet growing market demand for eco-friendly goods. Speaking at an entrepreneurship mentoring event in Makassar, she stressed that product quality must be matched with expanded marketing access, including international exhibitions. She also highlighted the importance of synergy between government bodies to boost the global competitiveness of regional crafts, particularly from South Sulawesi.

Cross-Sector Collaboration Strengthens Indigenous Women's Empowerment, Says Ministry

Deputy Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Veronica Tan, has stressed the need for cross-sector synergy to achieve sustainable village development and empower indigenous women. The ministry is shifting its focus towards prevention through family economic strengthening and local food programmes. The initiative was highlighted during a traditional harvest thanksgiving ceremony in Sigi, Central Sulawesi.

PERSIS Applauds Government's Move at UN Forum, Child Protection Must Be a Global AI Priority

The central leadership of the Islamic Union (PERSIS) has praised Indonesia's initiative to make child protection a core principle of global artificial intelligence governance at a UN forum in Geneva. The organisation emphasised that technological advancement must be accompanied by moral responsibility to safeguard the nation's future generations. PERSIS also urged the government to strengthen digital platform regulations and make digital literacy a national movement.

Minister Dody Says Meninting Dam Resolves Farmer Conflicts in Lombok

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo stated that the newly inaugurated Meninting Dam in West Lombok is a concrete solution to long-standing water conflicts among local farmers. The Rp 1.4 trillion project will allow for three planting seasons annually on 1,060 hectares of previously rain-fed land, significantly boosting agricultural productivity. The dam also provides flood control, raw water supply for 100,000 residents, and potential for renewable energy and tourism development.

Gunungkidul's 'Penthul Tembem' Creative Gymnastics Sets MURI and World Record

A mass creative gymnastics event in Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta, featuring the local 'Penthul Tembem' mask characters has broken a national MURI record and been declared a world record for the largest female participation. The event, involving 1,588 women, is part of the regency's strategy to promote sport tourism and cultural preservation. The local government also received official copyright protection for the Penthul Tembem mask design.

Viral Reaction of Banten Health Chief to BPK Findings Prompts Reprimand from Regional Secretary

Banten Regional Secretary Deden Apriandhi has pledged to reprimand the province's Health Chief, Ati Pramudji Hastuti, after a video of her testy reaction to media questions about BPK audit findings went viral. Deden stated that the provincial government remains committed to transparency and that the BPK's findings are open to public scrutiny. He also noted that the audit findings indicate negligence by budget users and will lead to an evaluation of all regional apparatus organisations, not just the Health Office.

Bank Mega Syariah's First-Half Profit Jumps 17.56% on Robust Financing Growth

Bank Mega Syariah reported a 17.56% year-on-year increase in pre-tax profit to Rp137 billion for the first half of 2026, driven by strong financing expansion. Total financing surpassed Rp10 trillion, with the commercial segment, particularly corporate and business banking, leading the growth. The bank also saw a significant rise in low-cost funds, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and prudent expansion.

Prabowo optimistic Indonesia will become world food barn

President Prabowo Subianto expressed confidence that Indonesia is on track to become a global food barn, citing a shift from reliance on imports to exporting commodities. He highlighted that increased domestic production has attracted interest from countries such as Australia, Brazil, and India. The optimism is supported by data from the National Food Agency showing a significant rice surplus in the first half of 2026.

Judge: Blueray Cargo Owner Paid Rp91.77 Billion in Bribes to Customs Officials

A Jakarta Corruption Court has found the owner of Blueray Cargo, John Field, guilty of paying Rp91.77 billion in bribes to customs and excise officials. The bribes, delivered between July 2025 and January 2026, included cash, luxury goods, and entertainment. The ruling highlights ongoing corruption risks within Indonesia's customs service.

Meninting Dam supplies raw water for 100,000 people on Lombok Island

The Meninting Dam in West Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat, now supplies 0.15 cubic metres per second of raw water to approximately 100,000 residents. The dam, one of five recently inaugurated, also provides irrigation for 1,500 hectares of rice fields and flood control for the surrounding districts. The Public Works Minister emphasised that the success of the project is measured by the tangible benefits delivered to the community, not just the completion of construction.

Metro's Kampung Prancis boosts confidence and cross-cultural insight

The Kampung Prancis (French Village) in Metro, Lampung, is helping locals build confidence in communicating with foreigners and broadening their international perspectives. The initiative combines language learning with cultural activities, including French cooking, and features direct interaction with native speakers. Organisers report growing enthusiasm for the free programme, which also fosters mutual respect through cross-cultural events.

Brimob Personnel Tightly Guard Metro Jaya Police Ahead of Press Conference on Major Corruption Cases

Heavily armed police from the Mobile Brigade (Brimob) have been deployed to secure the Metro Jaya Police headquarters in Jakarta ahead of a press conference on several major corruption investigations. The heightened security comes as investigators handle three significant cases involving the coal sector, PT Asabri, and PT CBS. The press conference is expected to provide updates on the progress of these high-profile probes.

Prabowo opens five dams to bolster food, water security

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated five dams across Indonesia, highlighting their role in supporting agriculture, raw water supply, and disaster mitigation. The projects, including the Meninting Dam in West Lombok, represent long-term government investment in strategic infrastructure. The president stressed the importance of professional operation to ensure farmers receive adequate irrigation, linking food production directly to national stability.

Mineral Orchestration: A Path to High Value-Added Industrialisation

Indonesia's downstream mineral strategy must extend beyond producing semi-finished goods to integrate with the manufacturing sector for greater value creation. MIND ID, the state-owned mining holding company, is positioned to orchestrate this multi-metal industrialisation, but success hinges on regulatory certainty and manufacturing capacity. The approach aims to ensure domestic absorption of processed minerals, fostering job creation and broader economic benefits.

Golkar Deputy Chair Wihaji Registers for MKGR Chairmanship Ahead of Extraordinary Congress

Wihaji, Deputy Chair of the Golkar Party, has officially registered as a candidate for the chairmanship of the MKGR mass organization. He was accompanied by 34 regional branches during the registration process. The extraordinary congress was called to find a replacement for Adies Kadir, who stepped down after being appointed as a Constitutional Court Justice.

Blueray Cargo Boss John Field Sentenced to Two Years in Customs Bribery Case

John Field, the owner of Blueray Cargo, has been sentenced to two years in prison for bribing officials at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The Jakarta Corruption Court found him guilty of paying Rp91.77 billion in bribes between 2025 and 2026 to expedite the clearance of his company's goods. The judges noted that the bribery was partly provoked by customs officials who deliberately created obstacles for the cargo business.

Regarding the Series of Searches, Expert Says: Respect the Legal Process, Do Not Jump to Conclusions

Legal expert Agus Widjajanto has urged the public to respect the ongoing police investigation into alleged corruption and money laundering, following reports of inter-agency friction after a raid on a South Jakarta cafe. He emphasised that all state institutions must respect each other's authority under the rule of law. The statement comes as the National Police and the Indonesian Military have both issued clarifications denying any stand-off, while investigators continue to probe major corruption cases involving coal governance, PT Asabri, and PT Krakatau Steel.

BAIC strengthens expansion in Indonesia through NEVs

Chinese automotive brand BAIC plans to introduce more environmentally friendly vehicle lines in Indonesia, capitalising on a 78 per cent growth in the pure electric vehicle market. The company will expand its distribution network and aims to locally assemble its new BAIC T1 electric model with up to 60 per cent local content by next year. BAIC reported a 91 per cent surge in wholesale sales during the first half of the year, driven largely by its BJ30 hybrid SUV.

Gunungkidul has broken nine MURI records since 2007

Gunungkidul Regency in Yogyakarta has set nine records with the Indonesian World Records Museum (MURI) since 2007, celebrating local food, culture, and wisdom. The latest record is for the largest number of female participants in the Penthul Tembem creative exercise. The regency's achievements include the largest bamboo winnowing tray and the most communal rainwater harvesting tanks.

Ministry of Environment deploys 400 companies to block peatland canals to prevent forest fires

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment has mobilised approximately 400 concession-holding companies to block canals in peatland ecosystems as a preventative measure against forest and land fires. The initiative, announced during a coordination meeting in Jakarta, targets the high-risk provinces of Riau, West Kalimantan, and South Sumatra ahead of the peak dry season. The effort forms part of a broader national movement for environmental restoration.

Prabowo Speaks Candidly: Many Reject B50 Fuel Because They Want Imports

President Prabowo Subianto has claimed that opposition to Indonesia's mandatory B50 biodiesel programme is driven by parties seeking to maintain fuel imports and collect commissions. He stated that Indonesia is the first country to successfully implement B50 nationally, despite technical objections. The President estimated the programme saves the state Rp 170 trillion in foreign exchange, suggesting that a 20 percent commission on such imports would amount to Rp 34 trillion.

AHY Launches 'Langit Biru' National Movement, Calls for Coastal Clean-Up as Investment in Indonesia's Future

Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) has launched the 'Langit Biru' (Blue Sky) National Movement, a large-scale community initiative starting in Pacitan, East Java, to clean beaches and protect the environment. The Democratic Party chairman emphasised that the programme should evolve beyond a party anniversary event into a sustained social movement to boost tourism and local economies. The initiative expands on the party's previous environmental focus on rivers to now include coastal areas, with simultaneous clean-up actions also scheduled in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara.

Unila promotes development of Kampung Prancis in Metro

The University of Lampung (Unila) is advancing the development of Kampung Prancis (French Village) in Metro City as a hub for French language and cultural learning. The initiative, rooted in the area's historical ties to New Caledonia, aims to preserve local heritage while enhancing human resources. The community, inaugurated in August 2025, has seen growing enthusiasm, with regular classes and support from the Metro city government.

Pramono Opens Complaint Post for Ciliwung River Land Acquisition

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has launched a complaint post to bypass middlemen and land mafias in the land acquisition process for the Ciliwung River normalisation project. The initiative aims to assist residents who lack proper documentation by providing direct access to officials from the National Land Agency and the Water Resources Agency. The scheme allows residents who have occupied land for over 20 years to receive compensation directly, eliminating the role of intermediaries.

Prabowo demands military, police and bureaucrats introspect

President Prabowo Subianto has issued a stern call for introspection among military, police and bureaucratic officials, reminding them that their authority is funded by the people. Speaking at a dam inauguration in West Nusa Tenggara, he demanded improved integrity and warned against defying the public's mandate for a clean administration. The remarks follow high-profile corruption investigations and institutional friction between the National Police and the Indonesian Military over a graft case linked to a senior prosecutor.

Govt targets three hotspots in restoration drive

The Indonesian government has identified Riau, West Kalimantan, and South Sumatra as the top priority areas for environmental restoration and fire prevention. Environment Minister Moh Jumhur Hidayat announced that 400,000 hectares of degraded land have been replanted and called for a national movement to plant two billion trees. The ministry is also working with hundreds of concession-holding companies to protect peatlands, with groundwater monitoring showing vulnerable levels in several districts.

Philippines rejects Chinese academics' sovereignty claims over Batanes Islands

The Philippines has firmly rejected claims by Chinese academics that the northern Batanes Islands belong to Beijing, dismissing the assertions as a 'false narrative' and a form of 'salami slicing' territorial expansion. Manila insists its sovereignty over the strategically located islands, near Taiwan, is settled and not up for debate, while Beijing distanced itself from the academic statement. The incident adds to ongoing regional tensions, particularly in the South China Sea, where the Philippines and China have clashed over competing territorial claims.

ESDM: Industrial LNG discount valid until 31 December 2026

The Indonesian government has set a discounted price of US$13 per MMBTU for liquefied natural gas (LNG) for the industrial sector, effective until the end of 2026. The policy aims to bolster national industrial competitiveness and prevent layoffs amid high global gas prices. The government has not yet determined the LNG pricing policy for 2027.

Central Java Provincial Government Ensures Public Services in Sukoharjo Unaffected by Sting Operation

The Central Java provincial government has guaranteed that governance and public services in Sukoharjo Regency will continue normally following the arrest of its regent by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). Governor Ahmad Luthfi expressed concern over the incident and stressed that leaders must set an example for clean and transparent administration. A caretaker will be appointed to ensure the local government remains operational.

Armed Brimob Personnel Guard Metro Jaya Police Ahead of Press Conference

Dozens of heavily armed Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officers were deployed at Metro Jaya Police Headquarters in Jakarta ahead of a press conference on corruption investigations. The heightened security restricted public access and included tactical vehicles, though no official reason was immediately given for the increased measures. The press conference is expected to address developments in several major graft cases, including alleged corruption in coal procurement linked to power outages and a case involving PT Asabri.

Haj Minister inaugurates new building at Banjarmasin Haj Dormitory in South Kalimantan

Minister of Haj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has inaugurated a new three-star hotel-standard building at the Banjarmasin Embarkation Haj Dormitory. The facility, funded through sovereign sukuk, aims to enhance services for pilgrims from South and Central Kalimantan. The government is also considering transforming several haj dormitories into one-stop service centres for umrah pilgrims.

Indonesia targets up to 820,000 Indian tourists in 2026

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry is aiming to attract up to 820,000 Indian tourists in 2026, capitalising on rising arrival numbers and a recent state visit by India's Prime Minister. The ministry plans to diversify promotions beyond Bali to destinations like Yogyakarta and Labuan Bajo, while targeting higher-spending visitors who stay longer. Indian tourist arrivals have shown consistent growth, reaching 734,490 in 2025.

Indonesian Language for the World

The article reflects on the historical significance of the Indonesian language as a unifying symbol born from the 1928 Youth Pledge. It argues that preserving and prioritising Bahasa Indonesia is urgent not only for national identity but also for ensuring equitable access to education, law, and public services. The piece contends that a strong national language is the foundation for social cohesion and a prerequisite for Indonesia to maintain an authentic voice in the global arena.

MoU Perumda Air Minum TSB dan PT Moya Indonesia, Ini Kata Bupati Sinjai

The Sinjai Regency government has facilitated a Memorandum of Understanding between the local water utility Perumda Air Minum TSB and private firm PT Moya Indonesia to explore investment in developing the region's water supply infrastructure. The agreement initiates a feasibility study phase, with the ultimate goal of providing continuous 24-hour clean water access to the community. Bupati Ratnawati Arif stated the collaboration is a key part of the local government's commitment to fulfilling basic public needs and stimulating regional economic growth.

Lawyer Regrets KPK's Decision to Transfer Former Minister Yaqut to Detention Centre

The legal counsel for former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has expressed regret over the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) decision to move him back to a detention centre, citing his incomplete post-operative recovery. The KPK stated the transfer occurred after intensive medical observation confirmed he was fit to be detained. Yaqut is a suspect in a case involving alleged corruption in the allocation of additional Hajj quotas for 2023-2024, which state auditors estimate caused Rp622 billion in losses.

Prabowo Has Closed 240 State-Owned Enterprises, Targets 800 by Year-End

President Prabowo Subianto has announced the closure of 240 underperforming state-owned enterprises (BUMN), with plans to shut down a total of 800 by the end of 2026. The move has reportedly saved the state nearly Rp70 trillion in salary and operational costs. The President expressed surprise at the sheer number of BUMN, which he discovered totalled 1,077 upon taking office, and vowed to continue restructuring efforts.

Welcoming Jakarta's 5th Centenary, PAM Jaya Strives for Equitable Clean Water Access

As Jakarta approaches its 500th anniversary, the city's water utility PAM Jaya is intensifying efforts to expand its piped water network and achieve 100 per cent service coverage. The company is leveraging public events like the Jakarta Fair to simplify new connection applications, offering free installation programmes. This push aims to reduce reliance on groundwater and mitigate the city's land subsidence challenges.

JK Remembers Rahmat Gobel as a Kind and Meritorious Figure at Funeral

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla paid his respects at the funeral of politician and businessman Rahmat Gobel, describing him as a kind and accomplished individual. JK noted their similar backgrounds as entrepreneur-politicians and praised Gobel's ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Gobel, who served as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2019 to 2024, was laid to rest at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta.

IHSG Closes Stronger at 5,924 on 10 July 2026, Rupiah Also Gains at Weekend

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index (IHSG) ended the final trading day of the week on a positive note, rising 0.20% to 5,924.36. The strengthening was supported by significant gains in stocks such as Prodia Diagnostic Line and Rans Entertainment. The rupiah also showed strength, contributing to the positive market sentiment.

Singapore Tops Global Maritime Centre Ranking for 13 Consecutive Years

Singapore has maintained its position as the world's leading maritime centre for the 13th year running, according to the 2026 Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index. The city-state's strategic location, established financial and legal services, and role in alternative fuel development were cited as key factors. The Port of Singapore also reported record container throughput and bunker fuel sales in 2025.

Former Deputy Minister Arrested for Corruption, Rp191 Billion Found in House Drainage Culvert

Iraqi authorities have uncovered approximately US$10.7 million in cash hidden inside a stormwater drainage culvert at the home of former Deputy Oil Minister Adnan Al Jumaili. The discovery is part of a broader anti-corruption campaign by Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi, which has already led to the seizure of additional cash, gold, and properties. The former official was arrested last month over alleged bribery and embezzlement in oil refinery contracts worth billions of dollars.

Pramono Offers Flats to Cawang Residents Affected by Ciliwung River Normalisation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has offered public housing (rusun) to residents of Cawang Village affected by land acquisition for the Ciliwung River normalisation project. While the administration has prepared several flat locations for relocation, the main challenge remains residents' reluctance to leave their long-time neighbourhoods. The project targets 170 houses, with 62 already compensated and the rest under administrative processing.

The Notification Economy: When Our Phones Dictate Our Spending

The pervasive nature of smartphone notifications is subtly reshaping consumer behaviour in Indonesia, turning wants into perceived needs through psychological triggers like FOMO and scarcity. While digital transactions are booming and contributing to economic growth, experts warn that this convenience often undermines rational budgeting. The challenge now lies in boosting financial literacy to match the pace of technological manipulation.

Deputy Minister: Prambanan Restoration to Make Temple a Global Spiritual Destination

Indonesia's Deputy Tourism Minister Ni Luh Puspa stated that the restoration of Prambanan Temple, agreed upon by the Indonesian and Indian governments, will elevate the world heritage site into a global spiritual destination. The project aims to balance cultural preservation, religious function, and tourism development. The agreement was formalised during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit, where he toured the temple with President Prabowo Subianto.

From Youth Pledge to Lecture Halls: The Fate of the Indonesian Language in Higher Education

Despite a strong constitutional and legal mandate requiring Indonesian as a compulsory university subject, its position remains fragile and its teaching often fails to foster genuine academic literacy. Research indicates that many students still struggle with effective writing and logical reasoning, a problem rooted in weak foundational literacy and exacerbated by teaching methods that focus on rote grammar rather than critical thinking. The article argues for a redesign of the curriculum to treat language mastery as a strategic investment in students' analytical skills and national identity, rather than a mere administrative formality.

Govt issues presidential decree to save Sumatran, Kalimantan elephants

The Indonesian government has issued a cross-sectoral presidential instruction mandating the protection of Sumatran and Kalimantan elephant populations and their migratory corridors. The decree requires infrastructure projects and plantations to adapt to wildlife routes, compelling developers to build dedicated corridors and enrich habitats with food sources. The policy binds eight ministries, the National Police, and regional leaders to enforce conservation measures.

Minister Emphasises Prudence in Setting 2027 Hajj Costs

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has stressed that the government is carefully calculating the 2027 Hajj travel costs, taking into account global factors such as US dollar fluctuations and rising aviation fuel prices. He noted that while some service components in Saudi Arabia have increased, the government is exploring efficiency schemes to avoid passing the full burden onto pilgrims. The ministry aims to balance financial sustainability with affordability, using the evaluation of the 2026 Hajj as a basis for next year's cost structure.

Temanggung Robusta Coffee Production Predicted to Fall by Up to 60 Percent in 2026

Extreme wet weather during the flowering phase is expected to slash robusta coffee production in Temanggung, Central Java, by 40 to 60 percent in 2026. High rainfall has caused flowers to drop and increased the risk of fungal attacks, according to the local food and agriculture agency. Officials hope stable market prices will cushion the economic impact on farmers.

BPDP Partners with MSMEs to Accelerate Downstreaming Through 52 Programmes

The Indonesian Oil Palm Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) is actively fostering small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the palm oil sector to boost innovation and sustainability. As of June 2026, the agency has established 52 collaborative programmes with various stakeholders, including farmer associations and universities. The initiative aims to ensure that the benefits of technology adoption and industrial downstreaming extend beyond large corporations to empower MSMEs.

New industrial estate council risks being mere rhetoric, experts warn

The Indonesian government's plan to establish a National Industrial Estate Council under direct presidential authority aims to cut through bureaucratic red tape hampering investment. Industry players argue the body must have real authority to resolve overlapping permits and regulatory uncertainty, rather than becoming another ineffective coordinating forum. The proposal comes amid calls from industrial estate operators for sweeping reforms to address bottlenecks across central and regional governments.

Central Java Governor Relies on 'Speling' Programme for Leprosy Screening

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has committed to accelerating leprosy elimination by integrating screening into the existing 'Speling' programme. He noted that 1,541 cases were detected in 2025, with a further 837 found by the second quarter of 2026, indicating effective early detection. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stressed that the main challenge is late detection and urged a strategy of finding and treating as many cases as possible.

Heartbreaking: Images of Dead, Rotting Pigs Swept Away by China Dam-Burst Floods

Catastrophic flooding in China's Guangxi region, triggered by the collapse of the Liulan Reservoir dam, has devastated agricultural communities, with images showing dozens of dead pigs rotting after being swept from their pens. The disaster, exacerbated by Tropical Storm Maysak, has killed at least six people, affected 375,000 residents, and submerged towns, farmland, and transport routes. Authorities warn the death toll may rise as China also braces for a more powerful typhoon approaching its eastern coast.

PNM Showcases Sharia Financing Model for 16 Million Women at HEI Forum

PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) presented its ultra-micro sharia financing model, which serves 16.1 million women, to delegates from nine D-8 member countries at the Halal Expo Indonesia 2026. The state-owned enterprise highlighted its group-based, collateral-free approach that has boosted incomes and financial independence among underprivileged women. PNM aims to position the Indonesian model as a reference for expanding financial inclusion and strengthening the halal economic ecosystem across the developing nations.

Full Warehouses, Unyielding Prices: Reassessing the Rice Stabilisation Strategy

Despite Indonesia's government rice reserves reaching a historic high of 5.17 million tonnes, rice prices have continued to climb for six consecutive months, contributing to persistent inflation. The disconnect highlights that abundant stockpiles are ineffective without rapid, large-scale distribution and addressing upstream price competition. The government is urged to accelerate the release of reserves, particularly to eastern regions where prices far exceed the ceiling, to translate record stocks into consumer relief.

Three Kupang City Reciters to Represent NTT at 2026 National MTQ

Three kafilah from Kupang City have been selected to represent East Nusa Tenggara at the 30th National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ) in Semarang, Central Java, in September 2026. The participants secured their spots after winning first place in their respective categories at the provincial level competition in Nagekeo. Kupang City has also been proposed as a co-host for the 2028 provincial MTQ alongside West Manggarai Regency.

NTT Police Examine Parents and Boyfriend in Doctor Icha Intimidation Case

Investigators from the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Police have questioned the parents and boyfriend of the late Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni as part of an inquiry into alleged intimidation. The family previously reported three local parliamentarians to the police, suspecting that the intimidation Dr. Icha faced while on duty contributed to her psychological distress before her death.

Video: Competing for Patients, Private Hospitals Offer Humanistic-Technological Services

Indonesia's private hospital sector is expanding rapidly, driven by rising demand for healthcare services, with the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) recording private hospital investments of Rp 8.2 trillion by the end of 2025. Tzu Chi Hospital is among those boosting investment in facilities, technology, and medical staff to enhance patient care. The hospital is expanding to 576 beds and strengthening flagship services such as robotic orthopaedics and bone transplants.

Tri Tito Calls for Cross-Sector Collaboration to Protect Children in the Digital Era

Tri Tito Karnavian, Daily Chair of the National Craft Council (Dekranas), has stressed that protecting children online requires a collective effort beyond just parents. She highlighted the need for involvement from schools, government, and digital platforms to mitigate risks such as cyberbullying and data exploitation. Her remarks were made during a workshop in Makassar focused on fostering healthy digital habits within families.

IHSG Ends the Week on a High, Closes Up 0.20% at 5,924

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed higher on Friday, gaining 0.20% to 5,924.36, buoyed by a weaker US dollar and positive sentiment from Asian markets. The rise came despite lingering global concerns over Middle East tensions and warnings from the IMF about increasing economic risks. Domestically, investors focused on the launch of the B50 biodiesel mandate and data showing a slight improvement in retail sales.

Tears Accompany Burial of Rachmat Gobel at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

Rachmat Gobel, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the NasDem Party, was laid to rest at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta. The funeral was attended by senior political figures, including Deputy House Speaker Saan Mustopa and former Vice President Jusuf Kalla. Gobel was remembered for his dedication and significant contributions to the nation during his tenure in parliament.

Iran Claims 43 Million People Attended Khamenei's Funeral

Iranian authorities have claimed that the funeral procession for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was attended by up to 43 million people, describing it as the largest funeral in recorded history. The six-day ceremony spanned five cities in Iran and Iraq, with official estimates based on transport data, mobile phone signals, and crowd density calculations. Iraqi authorities separately verified the attendance of 10 million mourners in Najaf and Karbala.

When AI Ustadzah Was Mistaken for a Real Preacher

The viral popularity of 'Ustadzah Hajar', an AI-generated preacher with nearly a million TikTok followers, has sparked serious concern from Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs. The Ministry warns that artificial intelligence is merely a tool and must not replace qualified scholars as a source of religious rulings. The case highlights the dangers of relying on unverified digital sources for complex matters of Islamic law, which require deep scholarly understanding and a chain of knowledge.

High Prosecutor's Office Asked by AGO's Special Crimes Unit to Map All SPPG in DIY

The Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office has completed mapping all Free Nutritious Meal programme kitchens in the region at the request of the Attorney General's Office. The data collection is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in the programme's management involving the National Nutrition Agency. The results have been submitted to the Special Crimes Unit, though local prosecutors lack the authority to disclose the findings.

Ahmad Luthfi Assures Sukoharjo Public Services Continue Despite KPK Sting Operation

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has guaranteed that public services in Sukoharjo Regency will operate normally following a corruption sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The operation resulted in the arrest of Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani and four others on suspicion of extorting regional officials. Luthfi affirmed his support for the anti-graft action and pledged to send a provincial team to assist the local government.

Tribuana Mas Strengthens PMT Programme for Toddlers to Support Stunting Prevention

PT Tribuana Mas is reinforcing its commitment to public health by providing monthly supplementary food assistance to 19 integrated health posts across 16 villages in South Kalimantan. The programme aims to support stunting prevention and child development through consistent nutritional support. Company management emphasised that sustainable, long-term collaboration with local communities and health workers is essential for effective intervention.

Message to STAN Students, Purbaya: Technology Can Be Bought, But Integrity Must Be Guarded From the Start

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has told students at the State Finance Polytechnic (PKN STAN) that the integrity of civil servants is crucial for Indonesia's competitiveness amid global economic shifts. He stressed that while systems and technology can be acquired, personal integrity must be cultivated from the beginning. The minister highlighted that clean customs and tax administration, along with streamlined policies, will determine Indonesia's ability to compete in both domestic and international markets.

Applying 'Deep Learning' Approach Encourages Teachers to Write Boldly

A writing coach advocates for a 'deep learning' approach to help vocational school teachers produce more meaningful work. The method, aligned with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education's policy, focuses on mindful, meaningful, and joyful learning. It encourages teachers to draw from professional experiences and emotional depth rather than relying solely on logic and argumentation.

Lestari Moerdijat Urges Acceleration of Teacher Competency for Inclusive Education

MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat has called for a comprehensive strategy to bridge the significant gap in competent teaching staff for Indonesia's inclusive education system. She highlighted that only 15% of inclusive schools currently have Special Guidance Teachers, despite over 360,000 students with disabilities being enrolled. Moerdijat urged the government to aggressively expand teacher training programmes beyond the 2026 target of 1,500 advanced-level educators.

Prabowo Urges TNI, Police, and Prosecutors to Introspect

President Prabowo Subianto has called on all state apparatus, including the military, police, and prosecutors, to engage in self-reflection regarding their duties to the people. Speaking at the inauguration of five dams in West Lombok, he reminded officials that their authority and facilities derive from the public and warned against ignoring the people's demand for a corruption-free government. The president also stressed that law enforcement against corruption must proceed fairly, applying equally to all regardless of wealth or power.

Supplying Raw Materials for Manufacturing, PTPN I CEO Stresses Need for More Progressive Transformation

PTPN I CEO Abdul Rivai Ras has called for a more progressive and accelerated transformation of the state-owned plantation holding company. He emphasised the strategic role of the agro-industry in supplying raw materials for manufacturing and its significant social impact through labour absorption. Rivai highlighted the need for modern management and professionalism to navigate global competition, commodity price volatility, and sustainability demands.

Labour Union Backs Police to Thoroughly Investigate Corruption, Urges Impartial Law Enforcement

The Confederation of All-Indonesian Workers' Unions (KSPSI AGN) has expressed full support for the police's efforts to investigate corruption cases thoroughly. The union is also questioning the presence of military personnel at the homes of prosecutors and at a police station, demanding transparency. They have urged law enforcement to act professionally and without discrimination, including against high-ranking officials.

Facing Migration Surge, Batam Mayor Seeks DPR Support for Special Population Law

Batam Mayor Amsakar Achmad has requested the House of Representatives' support to draft a special law on population administration to manage the city's high migration rate. Batam currently has the second-highest migration rate in Indonesia, placing significant pressure on its limited infrastructure and public services. The proposal was made during a working visit by Commission II of the DPR, which also discussed national strategic projects and the need for more adaptive regional governance.

Pegadaian Subsidiary Expands Ride-Hailing Fleet to Support Driver Partners

PT Pesonna Optima Jasa, a subsidiary of state-owned pawnshop Pegadaian, has partnered with PT Trans Optima Perkasa to provide 250 vehicles to Gojek driver partners, including 50 electric vehicles. The initiative aims to create sustainable self-employment and support the national carbon reduction agenda. The companies plan to evaluate the pilot project and potentially expand the fleet to 1,000 units within three months.

BNNP Bali Dismantles Aceh-Bali Cannabis Syndicate

The Bali Provincial National Narcotics Agency (BNNP) has uncovered a cannabis distribution network operating between Aceh and Denpasar. A controlled delivery operation led to the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of over 1.4 kilograms of cannabis disguised as coffee beans. The suspects face severe penalties, including the death penalty or life imprisonment, under Indonesia's narcotics law.

Prabowo says food achievements are milestones towards self-sufficiency

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted key agricultural achievements during his 18-month administration, including a reduction in fertiliser prices and surpluses in rice and feed corn production. He described these as historic milestones towards strengthening national food security and achieving self-sufficiency. The government also reported significant rice stock levels and absorption by the state logistics agency.

Rupiah Strengthening Still Underpinned by Adequate Foreign Reserves

The Indonesian rupiah closed stronger on Friday, supported by robust foreign exchange reserves and Bank Indonesia's commitment to maintaining exchange rate stability. Analysts suggest the currency may continue to appreciate next week if pressure on the US dollar persists, though movements will be heavily influenced by upcoming US core inflation data. Market participants are also monitoring geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and foreign capital flows.

Business Leaders Remember Rachmat Gobel: Bequeathing the Importance of Manufacturing for Indonesia

Indonesian business figures have paid tribute to the late Rachmat Gobel, remembering him as a leader with a profound understanding of the industrial sector. They highlighted his unique combination of entrepreneurial experience and political influence, which he used to champion the cause of national manufacturing. Colleagues expressed hope that his legacy of advocating for reindustrialisation and a clear industrial blueprint will continue despite his passing.

Key Points from Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah's Statement on 3 Corruption Investigations

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has issued a public clarification regarding his alleged connection to three corruption cases being investigated by the police. He confirmed his ownership of a house in Sentul that was searched but stated all assets and financial matters can be accounted for legally. Adriansyah denied any links to businesses in Cipete and dismissed rumours of his resignation, emphasising his focus remains on the Attorney General's Office's priority cases.

Home Affairs Ministry Enlists Satpol PP and Satlinmas to Realise 'Indonesia ASRI'

The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched the national 'Indonesia ASRI' campaign in Malang, aiming to create a clean and beautiful environment. Director General Safrizal ZA stated that Satpol PP and Satlinmas officers will be the frontline force in enforcing local regulations on waste management. The initiative, mandated by President Prabowo Subianto, seeks to transform the public image of these units into community protectors and helpers.

Indonesia Proposes Safe and Ethical Digital Transformation Model at UN Forum

Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid presented Indonesia's digital transformation model at the UN's WSIS Forum 2026, emphasising a balance between connectivity, economic growth, and public protection. The model rests on three pillars: Connected, Grow, and Protected, with a strong focus on child safety online, which has already led to the deactivation of over 5 million underage accounts. Indonesia is also finalising a Presidential Regulation on AI governance to ensure ethical development and legal certainty for innovation.

Ministry to apply deep learning approach to all school subjects

Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti announced that the deep learning approach will be integrated across all school subjects to create more meaningful and engaging learning experiences. The ministry is conducting subject-based teacher training to ensure the method is adapted to the specific characteristics of each field of study. The initiative also incorporates coding and artificial intelligence as tools to enhance teaching quality, with an emphasis on proportional use of technology.

Engine Failure Leaves 16 Uzbek Nationals Stranded in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara

Sixteen Uzbek men were found stranded on a beach in Alor Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, after their chartered boat suffered an engine failure. Immigration authorities have taken them into custody in Kupang, where initial investigations revealed that 14 of them had overstayed their visas. Officials are now probing a potential human smuggling ring, having seized their passports and mobile phones, and are searching for an individual who allegedly received over US$8,000 for their travel arrangements.

Tri Tito: Child Protection in the Digital Era Cannot Rely Solely on Parents

Tri Tito Karnavian, Daily Chair of the National Crafts Council, has stressed that safeguarding children in the digital age requires a collective effort beyond just parents. Speaking at a workshop in Makassar, she called for active roles from schools, government, platform providers, and the community. She also highlighted the importance of maintaining family bonds and parental guidance to counter online risks such as cyberbullying and data misuse.

Four Factions Highlight Bali's Rp 712 Billion Budget Surplus, Giri Prasta Responds

Four factions in the Bali Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) have raised concerns over a substantial budget surplus (Silpa) of Rp 712 billion in the 2025 provincial budget. The factions urged the provincial government to improve planning accuracy to ensure development programmes are fully implemented. Deputy Governor I Nyoman Giri Prasta responded that the surplus does not necessarily indicate unspent funds, as it can also arise from savings on tendered projects.

Pertamina Chief Commissioner Inspects Energy Infrastructure Readiness in West Java

Pertamina's Chief Commissioner Mochamad Iriawan visited key energy distribution facilities in West Java to review operational readiness and safety standards. The inspection covered the Integrated Terminal in Jakarta and a motorway rest area, emphasising the consistent implementation of Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) protocols. Management reaffirmed that reliable energy distribution depends on both infrastructure readiness and a disciplined safety culture.

President Prabowo Issues Presidential Instruction on Elephant Conservation, Forestry Minister: Involves 9 Ministers

President Prabowo Subianto has issued a Presidential Instruction mandating the protection of Sumatran and Kalimantan elephant populations and their habitats. The directive, announced by Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni, requires nine ministries to coordinate conservation efforts alongside ongoing development projects. It stipulates that infrastructure and plantation developments must incorporate wildlife corridors and preservation areas to prevent habitat fragmentation.

Batam Container Terminal Accelerates International Shipping via Direct Call

PT Batam Terminal Petikemas (BTP) is significantly reducing international shipping times and logistics costs through its direct call service. The initiative eliminates the need for transshipment via Singapore, cutting delivery time to Shanghai from ten days to seven. The number of direct international calls surged by 212 percent in the first five months of 2026 compared to the same period last year.

Bima Arya Highlights Importance of Food Systems and Urban Planning for City Resilience

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Bima Arya Sugiarto has stressed that urban resilience must be built through strengthening food systems and sustainable environmental management. Speaking at the XVIII National Working Meeting of the Association of Indonesian City Governments (APEKSI) in Medan, he argued cities must become pioneers of food innovation and cross-regional collaboration rather than mere consumers. The forum produced a series of policy recommendations integrating digital transformation, environmental protection, and youth engagement to bolster national food security.

Vietnam Stock Market Soars 22% Despite Frontier Status

Vietnam's stock market has surged 22% this year, driven by strong economic growth and a revival in IPOs, even as it remains classified as a frontier market. The rally is heavily concentrated in a few large-cap stocks and primarily fuelled by domestic investors, with foreign investors remaining net sellers. The market is anticipating a catalyst from its upcoming reclassification to secondary emerging market status by FTSE Russell in September 2026.

Vietnam's Stock Market Status Remains 'Frontier' but Economy Could Grow 8%

Vietnam's equity market is experiencing a surge in activity, with the Hanoi index up 22% this year, contrasting sharply with Indonesia's 31% decline. Despite strong economic growth and an upcoming FTSE upgrade to Secondary Emerging Market, the market remains highly concentrated and faces significant foreign outflows. The country's robust GDP expansion and IPO pipeline offer opportunities, but risks persist around index concentration and foreign ownership limits.

Transjakarta Booth at PRJ 2026 Eases Public Access to Information

PT Transportasi Jakarta (Transjakarta) is using the Pekan Raya Jakarta (PRJ) 2026 to bring its services closer to the public. The company's booth provides direct information on programmes such as the Open Top Tour Bus and free transport cards for eligible residents. The initiative aims to boost public transport adoption and help reduce congestion in the capital.

Electricity in 3T Regions Still Prone to Blackouts, IESR Urges Acceleration of Solar Power Plants

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) is urging the Indonesian government to accelerate the adoption of solar power plants (PLTS) to reduce reliance on costly diesel generators in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions. The think tank argues that solar energy combined with battery storage is a key short-term solution to improve electricity reliability, as many remote areas still suffer frequent and prolonged blackouts. IESR also highlighted that regulatory hurdles, limited rooftop solar quotas, and slow utility-scale procurement are hindering the sector's optimal development.

China's Monthly Vehicle Exports Surpass 1 Million Units for the First Time

China's monthly vehicle exports exceeded 1 million units for the first time in June 2026, driven by surging demand for new energy vehicles (NEVs). The milestone underscores the country's growing dominance in the global automotive trade, with NEVs accounting for over half of the monthly export volume. However, experts caution that potential EU carbon tariffs and anti-subsidy investigations could pose future challenges.

PKB Launches Tree-Planting Movement Ahead of 28th Anniversary

The National Awakening Party (PKB) has initiated a nationwide tree-planting campaign called 'PKB Tree Party' to mark its 28th anniversary. The party aims to plant one million trees across Indonesia, starting with 2,000 seedlings in East Jakarta. PKB leaders framed the initiative as a reflection of the party's commitment to environmental conservation and hope it will inspire broader public participation.

Video: Investor Strategies to Secure Liquidity Amidst War Concerns - MSCI

Investors are shifting towards money markets to reduce risk as geopolitical tensions and domestic index transparency issues weigh on Indonesian markets. Majoris Asset Management's CEO notes that while volatility persists, the recent market shocks are manageable and have created opportunities due to cheap stock valuations. The role of local investors is becoming increasingly crucial in stabilising the market amidst significant foreign capital outflows.

KPK Allows Yogyakarta Provincial Government to Utilise Mandala Krida Stadium

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has given the green light for the Yogyakarta Special Region Provincial Government to fully utilise Mandala Krida Stadium. This decision follows the conclusion of investigative developments into a corruption case related to the stadium's construction. The KPK has expressed its full support for optimising the use of regional assets for local government needs.

Prabowo Slams B50 Opponents: They Want to Keep Importing and Take Commissions

President Prabowo Subianto has claimed that Indonesia is the first country to successfully implement a B50 biodiesel mandate, a programme he says faced significant opposition. He accused detractors of wanting to maintain fuel imports to collect commissions, alleging that a 20 per cent cut on Rp 170 trillion in imports would amount to Rp 34 trillion. Prabowo stressed that reducing imports and eradicating corruption are key to achieving prosperity for the Indonesian people.

ParagonCorp and Transjakarta Renovate Prayer Rooms at Six Bus Stops on Corridors 8 and 13

ParagonCorp has partnered with Transjakarta to build and renovate prayer rooms (mushola) at six bus stops along Corridors 8 and 13 in Jakarta. The initiative aims to enhance passenger comfort and meet the spiritual needs of commuters, with the two corridors serving nearly one million customers in December 2023. This collaboration is part of a broader commitment by both entities to improve public facilities, following ParagonCorp's earlier revitalisation of the Swadarma bus stop into an inclusive facility.

Binance eyes more Asia licences as crypto adoption grows, says co-CEO

Binance is actively pursuing additional regulatory licences across Asia to capitalise on growing cryptocurrency adoption, with co-CEO Richard Teng expecting further announcements this year. The exchange remains committed to the European market despite a recent licensing setback in Greece, attributing the withdrawal to procedural delays. Teng emphasised Binance's significant investment in compliance, including a dedicated workforce and a user protection fund, as the company navigates an evolving regulatory landscape.

Pasar Jaya Ensures 145 Jakarta Markets Support Waste Segregation Initiative

Perumda Pasar Jaya has equipped 145 markets with segregated waste bins as part of a broader campaign to create cleaner, healthier environments. The initiative aligns with a gubernatorial instruction mandating waste segregation at the source ahead of the August 2026 deadline when Jakarta can no longer send waste to the Bantargebang landfill. A pilot project for independent waste management is also underway at Pasar Induk Kramat Jati, with officials calling for the practice to become an ingrained culture and a key performance indicator for market managers.

Papua Pegunungan Government Intervenes in Market to Curb Inflation

The Papua Pegunungan provincial government is launching market operations and strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to tackle an annual inflation rate of 7.84 percent recorded in June 2026. The intervention includes short-term price stabilisation measures and a longer-term strategy to boost local economic activity through MSME festivals and agricultural development. Officials emphasised that coordinated efforts across technical agencies and districts are essential to improve community welfare and control price pressures.

Prabowo: I Forbade the Sale of State Defence Firms PT PAL and Pindad to Foreign Entities

President Prabowo Subianto revealed he personally intervened to block the proposed sale of strategic state-owned defence companies PT PAL and PT Pindad to foreign investors. He highlighted the subsequent success of these firms, noting that Pindad has secured a contract to supply weapons to Saudi Arabia and that Indonesian soldiers have repeatedly won international shooting competitions using domestically produced firearms.

DJI Tests Drone Technology on Mount Everest, Advancing Logistics, Mapping, and Climate Research at Extreme Altitudes

DJI has successfully completed a series of drone tests on Mount Everest, demonstrating significant progress in high-altitude logistics, glacier mapping, and atmospheric research. The trials involved transporting over 10,000 kg of supplies and waste, creating centimetre-level maps of the treacherous Khumbu Icefall, and supporting climate studies. These breakthroughs aim to enhance safety for climbers and Sherpas while contributing to environmental conservation on the world's highest peak.

Minister sets 2027 deadline to close open dumping landfills

Indonesia's Environment Minister has set a 2027 deadline for all open dumping landfills to cease operations, transitioning to controlled or sanitary systems to mitigate environmental damage and fire risks. The ministry is intensifying oversight of regional governments, with hundreds of landfills already facing administrative sanctions for non-compliance. The policy aims to prevent soil and groundwater contamination and reduce the threat of methane fires during the forecasted prolonged El Niño period.

Central Kalimantan Governor Attends Harvest Festival on 25,000-Hectare Land

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran attended a large-scale rice harvest and inaugurated the Kapuas Waterfront City, underscoring the local government's commitment to food security and public infrastructure. The harvest took place across 25,817 hectares in Kapuas Regency, with military and police leadership pledging their support for the national food self-sufficiency programme. The new waterfront area is expected to serve as a public space and tourist destination to boost the local economy.

Flocking to Leave America for China: The Reasons Revealed

Soaring costs for artificial intelligence tokens are driving companies to seek cheaper alternatives, including open-weight models from China. Executives from Palo Alto Networks and Palantir have publicly criticised the current pricing models of US firms like OpenAI, arguing that costs must fall dramatically to enable mass adoption. The shift comes as global AI spending continues to surge, with major tech firms raising billions in debt to fund infrastructure.

Rachmat Gobel Laid to Rest with Military Honours at Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery

Rachmat Gobel, a member of the House of Representatives and former Minister of Trade, was buried with a military ceremony at the Kalibata National Main Heroes' Cemetery in South Jakarta. The state funeral, led by Deputy Speaker Saan Mustopa, honoured his service to the nation. Gobel passed away earlier on Friday at a hospital in South Jakarta.

Blueray Cargo Owner Sentenced to Two Years for Bribing Customs Officials

John Field, the owner of Blueray Cargo, has been sentenced to two years in prison for his role in a bribery scheme involving the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The court found that Field, along with two company managers, paid a total of Rp91.77 billion to expedite the clearance of imported goods. The judges noted that the illicit payments were partly provoked by customs officials who deliberately obstructed the company's cargo operations.

Danantara Partners with US Firm to Develop Coal Gasification Projects

Indonesia's Danantara has signed a memorandum of understanding with US-based Latitude Energy to develop coal gasification projects using advanced TRIG technology. The partnership aims to bolster national energy self-sufficiency by converting low-calorie coal into synthetic gas, reducing reliance on imports. The US Embassy highlighted the deal as a significant step in strengthening trade and investment ties between the two nations.

How Jakarta Blackouts Sparked a Tech Billionaire's Journey to a Rp23.55 Trillion Fortune

Sehat Sutardja, a Jakarta native, turned childhood frustrations with frequent power cuts into a passion for electronics, eventually co-founding semiconductor giant Marvell Technology. His curiosity, sparked by repairing radios in his parents' auto shop, led him to develop pioneering low-power chips. Sutardja passed away in 2024 with an estimated fortune of US$1.3 billion, leaving a legacy of innovation born from adversity.

Banker Reveals Evidence of Banking Sector Resilience in High Interest Rate Era

Indonesia's banking sector continues to demonstrate robust performance despite a high interest rate environment, with credit growth reaching 11% and third-party funds growing 13%. Superbank President Director Tigor M. Siahaan highlighted that digital banks, in particular, are thriving, with his own institution reporting a 95% year-on-year increase in deposits and a net profit of Rp 188 billion as of May 2026.

Depok Public Works Department Repairs Dozens of Water Channels to Anticipate Flooding

The Depok City Government is repairing 88 water channels across the city to mitigate hydrometeorological disasters ahead of the rainy season. Key works include expanding the capacity of a 119-metre channel at the strategically vital Kali Cabang Barat in Cipayung, which is a confluence point with the Ciliwung River. The project, which is 70% complete, aims to prevent flooding in downstream areas and residential zones.

KPK Opens Possibility of Summoning Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni over Gratuity Report

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it has the authority to summon Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni for clarification regarding a gratuity report he filed. The report is linked to an envelope allegedly given by a now-suspect regent during an official meeting. The KPK is currently analysing the report and investigating potential connections to an ongoing bribery case involving forest area release permits.

Raffi Ahmad Outlines RANS Entertainment's Post-IPO Plans

Raffi Ahmad has detailed the future strategy for PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia following its listing on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The company, which began in a home garage in 2016, raised Rp 429.25 billion in its initial public offering. The proceeds are earmarked for expansion into concerts, cosmetics, family entertainment venues, and artificial intelligence.

Prabowo urges military, police and prosecutor officials to self-reflect

President Prabowo Subianto has called on all state apparatus, including the military, police, and prosecutors, to introspect on their service to the people. He reminded them that their positions and facilities are derived from the public and warned against opposing the people's will for a corruption-free government. The President also stressed that law enforcement against corruption must proceed fairly according to legal procedures.

The Secret of Darunnajah's Survival Across Generations

This article explores the existential threat of internal mismanagement facing Islamic boarding schools, using Darunnajah as a case study. It details how the founders of Darunnajah anticipated the dangers of institutional capture and rent-seeking behaviour, prioritising the preservation of sincerity and a robust organisational system. The piece highlights their continuous ijtihad in developing a governance format to ensure the pesantren's mission endures across generations.

Police Deputy Chief Urges Cadets to Learn from Lower-Ranking Officers and Seniors

Deputy National Police Chief Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo has called on 282 prospective police officers to remain humble and learn from both senior and lower-ranking personnel. He emphasised that field experience is invaluable regardless of rank. The cadets were also reminded to uphold the institution's values and maintain strong public communication skills as they prepare to become first-line supervisors.

Babel Quarantine Agency Supports SMEs Exporting Ketapang Leaves to Three Countries

The Bangka Belitung Quarantine Agency is facilitating local SMEs in exporting dried ketapang leaves to the United States, United Kingdom, and Germany, with 665.14 kilograms shipped in the first half of 2026. The leaves are valued internationally as a natural water conditioner for ornamental fish. Despite a slight 2.8 percent decline compared to the same period last year, officials remain optimistic about future export growth.

Indonesia's Economy Projected to Grow 5.2 Percent in 2026, Second Strongest in ASEAN

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has maintained its projection for Indonesia's economic growth at 5.2 percent in 2026, making it the second-fastest growing economy in Southeast Asia after Vietnam. The bank also revised Indonesia's inflation forecast upwards to 3 percent, while warning that prolonged global energy market disruptions and geopolitical conflicts pose significant risks to the region's outlook.

Tri Tito Karnavian Encourages MSMEs to Develop Sustainable Craft Products

Dekranas Chairperson Tri Tito Karnavian has urged micro, small, and medium enterprises to innovate with sustainable craft products to meet growing market demand for environmentally friendly goods. Speaking at a mentoring event in Makassar, she stressed that production must balance economic growth with environmental preservation. She also highlighted the critical need to strengthen marketing and expand access to national and international exhibitions for local artisans.

Health Check Complete, Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Returned to KPK Detention Centre

Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been transferred back to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detention centre after completing an intensive medical examination at a police hospital. The KPK confirmed he is fit to continue legal proceedings in the case of alleged corruption involving additional Hajj quotas for 2023-2024, which reportedly caused state losses of Rp622 billion. His lawyer expressed regret over the decision, stating that Yaqut still requires regular post-operative care.

Prabowo Reveals PT PAL, Pindad, PTDI Were Nearly Sold to Foreign Entities

President Prabowo Subianto disclosed that strategic state-owned defence companies, including PT PAL, PT Pindad, and PT Dirgantara Indonesia, were almost sold to foreign parties before he intervened. He highlighted the subsequent revival of these firms, noting PT Pindad's new export contract with Saudi Arabia and PT PAL's capability to build submarines. The President also announced the closure of 800 inefficient state-owned enterprises by the end of 2026, claiming nearly Rp 70 trillion in savings.

Peradi Profesional Partners with 138 Universities to Strengthen Advocate Education

The Indonesian Advocates Association (Peradi Profesional) has expanded its collaboration with universities, reaching partnerships with 138 institutions, including 108 religious colleges under the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The organisation received a MURI record for the most cooperation agreements signed with religious universities for advocate education. The initiative aims to enhance the quality and integrity of legal professionals in Indonesia.

The Puzzle of the Singapore Dollar Envelope from Kuansing Regent to Forestry Minister Raja Juli

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized SGD 12,000 linked to an alleged bribe from Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby intended for Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni. The cash was recovered from the speaker of the regional parliament, raising questions about how it ended up there and whether the minister returned the full amount. The KPK is investigating the connection between the envelope and a broader corruption case involving the regent, who was arrested for accepting a luxury SUV in exchange for a senior bureaucratic appointment.

Diversification: RANS Reduces Reliance on Raffi-Nagita Figures

PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia Tbk is strategically reducing its dependence on celebrity founders Raffi Ahmad and Nagita Slavina by diversifying its business lines. The company's managing director stated that the recent decline in revenue is a deliberate part of a long-term risk mitigation strategy. Future growth will focus on intellectual property-based products, events, and artificial intelligence.

POJ and TOP Synergy in Ride-Hailing Fleet Expansion Opens New Job Opportunities for Driver Partners

PT Pesonna Optima Jasa (POJ), a subsidiary of Pegadaian, has partnered with PT Trans Optima Perkasa (TOP) to expand vehicle ownership and rental access for ride-hailing drivers, initially handing over 250 units to Gojek partners. The collaboration aims to reduce unemployment by offering competitive rental schemes that eliminate upfront capital barriers, with plans to scale up to 1,000 vehicles following a three-month evaluation. The initiative also supports the national carbon reduction agenda by including 50 electric vehicles in the initial batch, responding to soaring demand for EVs among drivers.

Prabowo Inaugurates Rp 1.4 Trillion Meninting Dam in West Lombok

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the Meninting Dam in West Lombok, one of five dams launched nationally, as part of a broader infrastructure push. The dam, built at a cost of Rp 1.4 trillion, has a capacity of 13.14 million cubic metres and will support irrigation, flood control, and renewable energy generation. Prabowo described the project as a symbol of national unity and pledged to continue large-scale development across Indonesia.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Tightens Oversight of Religious Books to Prevent Intolerance

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is intensifying its review of Islamic religious books to curb the spread of intolerance, radicalism, and terrorism. Since 2020, the ministry has examined 368 titles, with 42 deemed unfit for circulation due to content violating national values. The policy aims to ensure publications promote religious moderation and align with Pancasila principles.

Indonesia Plans to Halt Aviation Fuel Imports by 2026 Amid Diesel Surplus

Indonesia's Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry is targeting an end to aviation fuel (avtur) imports by 2026, following the successful halt of diesel imports through the B50 biodiesel programme. The plan is driven by a projected domestic diesel surplus of 3 to 4 million kilolitres, boosted by refinery expansion in Kalimantan. The government is coordinating with Pertamina to build domestic avtur processing facilities, aiming to start construction by the end of 2026.

Blueray Cargo Chief Sentenced to Two Years in Customs Bribery Case

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced John Field, a senior figure at Blueray Cargo, to two years in prison for his role in a bribery scandal involving officials at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Two other defendants received one-and-a-half-year sentences. The case highlights ongoing efforts to tackle graft within Indonesia's customs and logistics sector.

Drought Begins to Affect Agricultural Land in Sukabumi

Agricultural land in Sukabumi Regency, West Java, is beginning to suffer from the dry season as declining river water levels reduce irrigation supplies. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has coordinated with the Agriculture Office for further handling, though a drought emergency status has not yet been declared. Reports of a clean water crisis among residents remain limited, with only one sub-district requesting assistance so far.

National Figures from JK to Jimly Attend Rachmat Gobel's Funeral

Prominent Indonesian figures, including former Vice President Jusuf Kalla and former Constitutional Court Chief Justice Jimly Asshiddiqie, attended the military funeral of former Deputy Speaker Rachmat Gobel at Kalibata Heroes' Cemetery. Gobel, a NasDem Party politician who served as Trade Minister and Deputy Speaker, was laid to rest with full military honours. The ceremony was also attended by parliamentary colleagues and public figures.

KPK Probes Nominal Amount in Envelope from Kuansing Regent to Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the sum of money allegedly intended for Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni by the suspended Regent of Kuantan Singingi, Suhardiman Amby. The probe follows a report of an envelope being left during an official meeting, which the minister claims he returned unopened. The case is linked to a broader corruption investigation involving job auctions and forest area release permits.

DPMPTSP Kotim ajak pelaku usaha manfaatkan OSS-RBA untuk lengkapi legalitas

Dinas Penanaman Modal dan Pelayanan Terpadu Satu Pintu (DPMPTSP) Kotawaringin Timur mendorong pelaku Industri Rumah Tangga Pangan untuk menggunakan sistem OSS-RBA guna memperoleh legalitas usaha. Langkah ini diambil untuk mempermudah proses perizinan, memberikan kepastian hukum, dan meningkatkan daya saing produk. Kolaborasi dengan Dinas Kesehatan juga dilakukan untuk memastikan standar keamanan pangan terpenuhi, yang diharapkan dapat memperkuat perekonomian daerah dan iklim investasi.

Pramono: 108 Land Parcels Remain for Ciliwung Normalisation

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo reports that 62 out of 170 land parcels in Cawang have been acquired for the Ciliwung River normalisation project. The provincial government aims to complete the remaining 108 acquisitions by the end of the year. The long-stalled project is being revived as a key solution to mitigate flooding in the capital.

Pekanbaru City Government Finds 1,000 Employees Not Yet Registered for National Health Insurance

The Pekanbaru City Government has discovered approximately 1,000 workers across various companies who have not been enrolled in the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme by their employers. Officials warn this violates mandatory obligations and could affect up to 3,000 individuals when dependents are included. The city is coordinating with BPJS Kesehatan to verify enrolment statuses and ensure companies fulfil their legal responsibilities.

Reasons 128 Civil Servants Were Dismissed for Absenteeism: From Economic Problems to Remote Postings

Indonesia's State Civil Apparatus Advisory Board (BPASN) has revealed the reasons behind the dismissal of 128 civil servants for absenteeism during the 2025-2026 period. The justifications cited by the dismissed employees ranged from illness without a doctor's note and remote work locations to personal economic and domestic issues. The majority of those dismissed were permanent civil servants (PNS), with 113 removed from their posts compared to 15 contract-based government employees (PPPK).

KAI North Sumatra Strengthens Railway Reliability Through Pulubrayan Workshop

PT KAI's North Sumatra Division has reinforced its railway fleet reliability through heavy maintenance at the Pulubrayan workshop. During the first half of 2026, the facility completed major overhauls on five locomotives, 18 passenger carriages, 102 freight wagons, and other equipment. The state-owned operator emphasised that this scheduled maintenance is crucial for meeting passenger and freight transport targets in the region.

Tri Tito Urges PKK to Champion Government Programmes and Strengthen Public Health Services

The chairwoman of Indonesia's Family Welfare Empowerment movement (TP PKK), Tri Tito Karnavian, has called on regional cadres to proactively support government priority programmes, citing the organisation's strong legal foundation under a presidential regulation. She emphasised the PKK's role in partnering with local government agencies to deliver services, including free health screenings. Tri also encouraged expanding partnerships with professional bodies and the private sector to enhance community welfare and economic empowerment.

Supreme Court expands access to justice and boosts military court effectiveness

Indonesia's Supreme Court has inaugurated five new military courts to improve access to justice and distribute caseloads more evenly. The new institutions include two high military courts in Balikpapan and Makassar, and three courts of first instance in Pekanbaru, Kendari, and Manokwari. The expansion aims to reduce the burden on existing courts and bring legal services closer to military personnel across the archipelago.

Five community leaders mark opening of Five Mountains Festival 2026 with 'Nandur Eling' ritual

The 25th Five Mountains Festival in Magelang, Central Java, opened with a contemporary ritual called 'Nandur Eling', where five community leaders planted tree saplings to symbolise the cultivation of memory and cultural values. The independent festival, initiated by farmer-artists in 1997, will run from 10 to 12 July 2026 and features performances from 85 art groups. Organisers emphasised the importance of preserving village wisdom, such as mutual cooperation and harmony with nature, amidst the challenges of the modern information age.

Prabowo Aware of 'Thieves' Infiltrating Free Nutritious Meal Programme: Inspect All Kitchens

President Prabowo Subianto has acknowledged that corrupt individuals have infiltrated his flagship Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme, ordering law enforcement and local officials to inspect all programme kitchens. He urged the public to help monitor the scheme, noting that citizens are now equipped with technology to report abuses. The remarks come as the Attorney General's Office investigates alleged corruption involving former officials of the National Nutrition Agency, with seven suspects already named.

Prabowo: A Handful of Jakarta Elites Think Hungry Stomachs Are Unimportant

President Prabowo Subianto has criticised a small group of Jakarta elites who he claims dismiss hunger as unimportant, reaffirming his commitment to eradicating poverty and hunger in Indonesia. Speaking at the inauguration of a dam in West Lombok, he stressed that no Indonesian should go hungry and that food self-sufficiency is a top priority for his administration. He also declared his unwavering loyalty to the people who elected him, stating he would not be deterred by those who dislike him.

Pertamina Distributes Thousands of School Uniforms, Offering a Glimmer of Hope Ahead of the New Academic Year

State-owned energy giant PT Pertamina has distributed thousands of affordable school uniform packages across Indonesia through its Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility programme. The 'SESAMA' initiative targets underprivileged communities, including online motorcycle taxi drivers and honorary teachers, ahead of the new school year. Company executives emphasised that the programme reflects Pertamina's commitment to serving the public beyond its core energy mandate.

Indonesia's Super-Rich Population Forecast to Surge 82%, Highest in the World

The number of ultra-high-net-worth individuals in Indonesia is projected to jump by 81.7% by 2031, the fastest growth rate globally, according to Knight Frank's The Wealth Report 2026. The population of those with a net worth above US$30 million is expected to rise from 3,833 to 6,966, outpacing growth in Saudi Arabia and Poland. The country's billionaire count is also forecast to increase by 49% over the same period.

Reason Little Aresha Jogja Suspect Missed Summons Revealed

Police have revealed that a suspect in the Little Aresha daycare abuse case in Yogyakarta initially missed a summons due to illness. The suspect was detained immediately after attending a follow-up examination, as authorities continue to process a total of 14 new suspects in the case.

Prabowo Inaugurates Five Dams Worth IDR 9.79 Trillion

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated five dams across four Indonesian provinces, representing a total investment of IDR 9.79 trillion. The projects, built between 2015 and 2025, aim to bolster food security, water supply, flood control, and clean energy. Prabowo highlighted the potential for future infrastructure development, linking the investment to savings from the newly launched B50 biodiesel mandate.

Hoax: BPJS Kesehatan Does Not Cover Patient Transport Costs to Hospital

A viral social media claim suggesting that Indonesia's BPJS Kesehatan covers patient transport costs, including fuel and toll fees, has been confirmed as false. The agency has clarified that no such policy exists and has urged the public to verify information through official channels.

Activists Rally at East Java High Prosecutor's Office Demanding Legal Transparency

Hundreds of activists from the Indonesian Millennial Activists Association (HAMI) staged a protest at the East Java High Prosecutor's Office, demanding transparency in law enforcement and a total revitalisation of the Attorney General's Office. The demonstrators highlighted concerns over the alleged involvement of non-law enforcement personnel in civil legal matters and potential obstruction of justice in ongoing corruption investigations. They urged President Prabowo Subianto to ensure the independence of legal institutions and called for equal treatment before the law without exception.

Hoax! Ministry of Transportation floats idea of bicycle tax

A social media post claiming the Indonesian Ministry of Transportation is considering a bicycle tax has been debunked as false. The accompanying photograph is an old image from 2020 showing a former official discussing mudik traffic, not tax policy. The ministry has consistently stated that its regulations for cyclists focus solely on safety, not taxation.

Riau Conservation Agency Installs Camera Traps After Tiger Kills 12-Year-Old Boy

The Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) is installing camera traps in Pelalawan Regency following the death of a 12-year-old boy in a Sumatran tiger attack. The incident occurred in a timber plantation concession area, prompting an investigation and a public safety warning. Authorities are balancing human safety with the protection of the critically endangered Sumatran tiger.

Purbaya: Civil servant integrity key to Indonesia's competitiveness in global market

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has emphasised that the integrity of Indonesia's civil servants is a crucial factor in determining the nation's competitiveness amid a shifting global economic landscape. Speaking to students, he argued that institutional quality and good governance provide the certainty needed to compete, not just resource wealth. He highlighted that clean customs and tax services, along with streamlined policies, will directly influence Indonesia's standing in both domestic and international markets.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Heads to Prioritise Leprosy Handling to Strengthen Human Resources

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on all regional leaders to make leprosy control a priority to improve the quality of Indonesia's human resources. He stressed that political will and commitment from local governments are crucial for accelerating prevention, case detection, and treatment, as well as eliminating social stigma. The Ministry of Home Affairs is also considering making health programme performance, including leprosy and tuberculosis control, an indicator for regional government awards.

Bangli Deputy Regent Responds to Faction Views on 2025 Budget

Bangli Deputy Regent I Wayan Diar addressed recommendations from three council factions regarding the 2025 budget accountability report. He pledged to improve regional financial governance, prioritising agriculture, culture-based tourism, and MSMEs. The administration committed to enhancing transparency and accountability in public spending.

Pelita Air Boosts Promotion Through 'Musikal Senja Teduh Pelita' Theatre Production

Indonesian airline Pelita Air has partnered with Jakarta Movin, Indonesia Kaya, and MALIQ & D'Essentials to stage a musical theatre production as a promotional strategy. The event, running from 3 to 12 July 2026 at Taman Ismail Marzuki, also features an in-flight music collaboration. The production aims to connect generations through performing arts while incorporating an environmental message through an electronic waste recycling initiative.

Semarang Mayor Accelerates Construction of Five Reservoirs to Strengthen Flood Control

The Mayor of Semarang, Agustina Wilujeng, is fast-tracking the development of five priority reservoirs and retention ponds as part of a long-term strategy to mitigate flooding, particularly in the city's eastern region. The projects, which are part of a mapped 20-point system, aim to reduce flood risk and enhance water reserves. The initiative represents a significant infrastructure investment, with the largest single project valued at approximately Rp 56.75 billion.

Police equip Akpol cadets with geopolitical understanding to maintain stability

The Indonesian National Police has provided 282 cadets from the Police Academy with training on global geopolitical dynamics. The initiative aims to prepare future officers to safeguard national stability amid increasingly complex security challenges. The cadets were urged to develop strategic awareness of global developments to perform their duties adaptively and in the nation's interest.

Canadian National Suspected of Committing Suicide by Firearm in Jimbaran Villa

A 46-year-old Canadian man, identified as JAK, was found dead in his villa in Jimbaran, Bali, in a suspected suicide involving a firearm. The body was discovered by a friend after the victim failed to answer his door, and police are currently investigating the incident. The friend reported that the victim had a history of mental health issues and had previously attempted suicide three times while living in Jakarta.

Jampidsus Febrie Speaks Out on Latest Developments in Case Involving Tan Kian

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has stated that the investigation linked to property tycoon Tan Kian is not a new case, but rather a continuation of previous proceedings related to the PT Asabri corruption scandal. He confirmed that the evaluation of evidence, including potential new suspects, is ongoing and that the execution of land assets connected to the case is still in progress.

Pertamina Distributes Thousands of School Uniforms Ahead of New Academic Year

State-owned energy giant PT Pertamina has distributed thousands of subsidised school uniform packages across Indonesia through its SESAMA programme. The initiative targets underprivileged communities, including online motorcycle taxi drivers and honorary teachers, ahead of the new school term. The programme is part of the company's corporate social and environmental responsibility efforts.

Prabowo Inaugurates Five Dams Across Indonesia from West Lombok

President Prabowo Subianto simultaneously inaugurated five dams across Indonesia, with the main ceremony held at the Meninting Dam in West Lombok. The President emphasised that such large-scale infrastructure projects are long-term national endeavours that build upon the work of previous administrations. He called for professional management of the dams to ensure water supply for farmers, highlighting their strategic role in food security and sustainable development.

JK Remembers the Late Rachmat Gobel: A Man of Many Friends and Great Warmth

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla has paid tribute to the late NasDem Party politician and Gobel Group owner Rachmat Gobel, highlighting his extensive network of friends and affable nature. Speaking at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery, Kalla noted their shared background as businessmen turned politicians. He remembered Gobel as a diligent, punctual, and deeply kind individual who understood people's problems.

Prabowo Warns Public of Social Media Dangers: Trust the Leader You Elected

President Prabowo Subianto has cautioned the Indonesian public against readily believing information on social media, describing it as a global 'disease' that can be manipulated by the wealthy. He urged citizens to place their trust in the leaders they have elected. The president also reiterated that any leader who lies to the people commits a sin and betrays the nation's interests.

BSI Gold Accounts Surge Past 1.7 Million

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has reported that its gold savings accounts have surpassed 1.7 million openings over the past year. The bank is actively promoting gold transfers and instalment schemes, including a 0% down payment option, to encourage long-term investment. BSI's CEO noted that gold is viewed as a safer asset, with prices expected to rise by year-end if geopolitical tensions ease.

Haji Isam Becomes RANS Shareholder, Raffi Ahmad: He Is My Mentor

Raffi Ahmad has confirmed that prominent businessman Haji Isam has acquired a stake of over 1 per cent in PT Rans Entertainment Indonesia Tbk (RANS). Ahmad described Isam as a mentor and stated his presence at the company's IPO ceremony on the Indonesia Stock Exchange lends legitimacy and signals confidence in the creative industry. However, Isam's name was not yet listed in the official shareholder register published by the company.

POJ Partners with TOP to Expand Vehicle Access for Ride-Hailing Partners

PT Pesonna Optima Jasa (POJ), a subsidiary of Pegadaian, has entered a strategic partnership with PT Trans Optima Perkasa (TOP) to provide 250 vehicles to Gojek driver partners, including 50 electric vehicles. The collaboration aims to reduce unemployment by offering competitive rental schemes that eliminate upfront capital barriers for drivers. The pilot project targets expansion to 1,000 units within three months and includes plans for financial inclusion programmes and a potential entry into the electric two-wheeler segment.

KPK Reveals Total of 18 People Arrested in Connection with Sukoharjo Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has updated the number of individuals arrested in a sting operation targeting Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani to a total of 18. Nine of those detained have been transported to the KPK headquarters in Jakarta for intensive questioning, including the regent herself. The operation relates to alleged extortion carried out by the regent against officials within the Sukoharjo Regency administration.

Jasa Marga Supports B50 Biodiesel Implementation at Toll Road Rest Areas

State-owned toll road operator PT Jasa Marga is backing the implementation of B50 biodiesel by preparing rest areas as strategic service points for sustainable transport. The initiative aims to ensure that road users, including logistics vehicles, can access energy services aligned with the national energy transition agenda. The support was highlighted during the launch of B50 biodiesel by the President at the KM 57A rest area on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road.

Bali Selected as Site for Indonesia's International Financial Centre to Rival Dubai and Singapore, Government Regulation Ready by 16 August

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has confirmed Bali as the location for Indonesia's International Financial Centre (PFII), with the necessary Government Regulation expected to be completed before 16 August 2026. The government aims to leverage Bali's existing international-standard infrastructure, including the Sanur Special Economic Zone, to create a financial hub that can compete with Dubai and Singapore. Airlangga emphasised the need to strengthen legal enforcement and offer investor-friendly incentives to attract capital to the new centre.

Investment Reaches 70 Percent in First Quarter, Kudus Optimistic to Surpass Rp 1.15 Trillion in 2026

Kudus Regency has recorded a strong investment performance in the first quarter of 2026, achieving 70 percent of its annual target of Rp 1.15 trillion. The Head of the local Investment and One-Stop Integrated Service Office confirmed that realised investment has reached Rp 877.4 billion. The local government is currently awaiting verified reports for the second quarter, which are expected to be released by the central Investment Coordinating Board in late July or early August.

Hajj Minister Emphasises Zero Tolerance for Violations and Stricter Health Assessments

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has called for the evaluation of the 2026 Hajj season to produce concrete strategic improvements rather than just administrative reports. He highlighted a zero-tolerance policy towards fraud and corruption, while also demanding stricter health screenings to prevent unfit pilgrims from being turned away at embarkation points. The evaluation in South Kalimantan noted that over 4,000 pilgrims from the region were classified as high-risk, and the minister stressed the need for early health mapping and intervention.

Paying His Last Respects, Jokowi Remembers Rachmat Gobel as a Hard-Working Minister

Former President Joko Widodo visited the funeral home of Rachmat Gobel in South Jakarta, remembering the former Trade Minister and sitting lawmaker as a dedicated public servant. Gobel, who also served as a member of the House of Representatives, passed away in the early hours of Friday morning. Colleagues from across the political spectrum have paid tribute to his legacy as a businessman and politician.

Pertamina Oil Corruption Case: Yoki Firnandi to Appeal After Sentence Reduced but Fined

The Jakarta High Court has reduced the prison sentence of former Pertamina International Shipping CEO Yoki Firnandi from nine to seven years in a crude oil management corruption case, but imposed an additional Rp5 billion compensation payment. His legal team expressed dissatisfaction with the new financial penalty, arguing it lacks basis as he was not proven to have received illicit funds. The defence plans to file an appeal to the Supreme Court, seeking a more thorough review of the case.

World Youth Skills Day 2026: Theme and Significance

The United Nations has announced the theme for World Youth Skills Day 2026 as 'Skills for a shared future', focusing on equipping young people with a balanced set of competencies beyond technical abilities. The day highlights the persistent challenge of youth unemployment, with global data showing uneven recovery and a high number of young people not in employment, education, or training. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is emphasised as a key tool to bridge the skills gap and improve access to decent work.

Seribu Islands Residents Receive Training in Agricultural Product Diversification

The Jakarta administration is providing training to residents across six inhabited islands in the Seribu Islands regency to process agricultural goods into higher-value products. The initiative aims to boost local economies by teaching skills to create items such as chilli floss, sambal, and spiced syrups. Officials hope the programme will foster innovation and create new income streams for island communities.

Prabowo: Despite Repeated Defeats, NTB Remained Loyal to Me

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated five dams across Indonesia, including the Meninting Dam in West Lombok, expressing deep gratitude for the unwavering political support from the people of West Nusa Tenggara. He acknowledged the long-term nature of national development, noting the Meninting Dam's construction began in 2019. The President also thanked his infrastructure ministers and their predecessors for their contributions to the multi-year projects.

VP Gibran reviews revitalized Banyuwangi market with tourism concept

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka inspected the newly revitalised Banyuwangi Main Market, a Rp152 billion project designed to blend commerce with tourism. The facility, built by the Ministry of Public Works, incorporates traditional Osing architecture and a green building concept to attract visitors. The market is expected to serve as both a trading hub and a venue for future events, supporting the local economy.

Depok City Government Welcomes At-Thohir Mosque Religious Tourism Development

The Depok City Government has expressed strong support for the expansion of the At-Thohir Mosque religious tourism area, which includes plans for a Museum of Islamic Civilisation and a hotel. Officials believe the development will significantly boost the city's appeal as a tourist destination. The local administration has also pledged to coordinate improvements to transport accessibility, including potential links to the LRT network.

BRI Facilitates Investment Access with ORI030 Offering Coupons of Up to 7%

State-owned Bank BRI is distributing the government's ORI030 retail bonds from 6 to 30 July 2026, offering fixed coupons of up to 7% per annum. The bonds, available in 3-year and 6-year tenors, aim to provide a secure investment option with state-guaranteed principal and monthly interest payments. The initiative is designed to broaden public participation in the domestic financial market while supporting national development.

Saan Mustopa Leads Military Funeral for Rachmat Gobel

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Saan Mustopa officiated the military funeral of NasDem politician Rachmat Gobel at the Kalibata National Heroes' Cemetery in Jakarta. Gobel, a former Deputy Speaker and Trade Minister, passed away on Friday morning due to illness. The ceremony included a salute of gunfire and the awarding of the Bintang Mahaputera Adipradana honour.

Indonesia Could See Diesel Surplus of Up to 4 Million KL, Here's the Driver

Indonesia is projected to have a diesel surplus of up to 4 million kilolitres, driven by the successful implementation of the B50 biodiesel mandate and the optimisation of domestic refinery capacity. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated this surplus will allow the country to halt diesel imports entirely. The government now plans to convert the excess supply into aviation fuel (Avtur) to achieve self-sufficiency in the aviation sector.

Police Seize Documents and Computers in Search of Cipete Shophouse Linked to Coal Corruption Case

Indonesian police have searched a shophouse in the Cipete area of South Jakarta as part of an investigation into money laundering related to coal corruption. The three-storey property was empty at the time of the raid, which was witnessed by local residents. Officers seized a number of documents and computers during the operation.

Anti-Corruption Group Demands Dismissal of Indonesia's Jampidsus Amid Graft Probe

Youth activists have called for the removal of Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, following a major corruption investigation. The probe, led by the National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps, involves the seizure of 74 kg of gold and cash worth Rp476 billion from a property linked to Adriansyah. The case relates to alleged corruption in coal commodity governance, insurance scandals at state-owned firms Asabri and Jiwasraya, and money laundering.

Prabowo Inaugurates Five Dams Worth Rp 9.79 Trillion, Here is the List

President Prabowo Subianto has simultaneously inaugurated five dams across Indonesia, representing a total state investment of Rp 9.79 trillion. The projects are expected to significantly boost agricultural output, with the President claiming they could collectively support the production of 85 million tonnes of rice annually. The inauguration ceremony was centred at the Meninting Dam in West Lombok.

Minister Tito Urges Regional Heads to Prioritise Leprosy Control

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on all regional leaders to make leprosy control a priority to improve human resources quality. He stressed that political will and commitment from local governments are crucial for accelerating prevention, case detection, and treatment. The ministry is also considering making leprosy and tuberculosis control performance an indicator for regional government awards.

KPK Probes Amount of Money Kuansing Regent Intended for Forestry Minister

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the sum of money allegedly intended by the suspended Regent of Kuantan Singingi for Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni. The regent, Suhardiman Amby, is a suspect in a bribery case involving the sale of government positions and alleged gratuities related to forest area release permits. Minister Antoni previously reported the attempted gratuity to the KPK, stating his aide returned the envelope without knowing its contents.

Raffi Ahmad Reveals Haji Isam Holds Stake in RANS Entertainment

RANS Entertainment founder Raffi Ahmad disclosed that prominent businessman Haji Isam is a shareholder in the company, holding more than one per cent. The revelation came during the company's initial public offering ceremony on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, where its shares surged by 34 per cent. Raffi described Haji Isam's investment as a significant vote of confidence and a positive signal for the national creative industry.

Megawati Meets Timor Leste PM, Proposes Cooperation Involving BRIN-BPIP

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri held a bilateral meeting with Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão in Dili, where they discussed long-term strategic commitments for the region's youth. Megawati proposed three concrete areas of cooperation, including maritime and climate change research with BRIN, comparative nationalism studies with BPIP, and inter-party institutional collaboration. The meeting also revisited the historic significance of Megawati's attendance at Timor Leste's 2002 independence ceremony, which Xanana praised as a transformative act of reconciliation.

Prabowo Reveals Many Infiltrators in Free Nutritious Meals Programme, Asks Regional Heads to Inspect All Kitchens

President Prabowo Subianto has disclosed that numerous individuals are attempting to exploit the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme for personal gain. He has instructed governors, regents, and village heads to inspect all MBG kitchens and report any irregularities, even directly to him via social media. The president also urged law enforcement to conduct proper oversight without seeking illicit payments.

KPK confirms authority to summon Forestry Minister after receiving gratuity rejection report

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it has the authority to summon Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni for clarification following his report of a rejected gratuity. The anti-graft body has 30 working days to analyse and verify the report, which is linked to an ongoing bribery investigation involving a former district head. The minister reported that an envelope was left by the suspect during a meeting and was subsequently returned.

Tourism Ministry Welcomes Prambanan Temple Restoration Plan

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry has welcomed a joint restoration and conservation project for the Prambanan Temple complex, announced by President Prabowo Subianto and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The initiative aims to strengthen the site's historical significance while enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination. India has committed to completing the restoration before 2029, with expectations of increased visitors from India thereafter.

Trade Minister Budi Santoso Remembers Rachmat Gobel as Champion of National Exports and Industry

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has paid tribute to the late Rachmat Gobel, remembering him as a key figure in driving national exports and industrial growth. Santoso revealed their last meeting focused on strategies to boost Indonesian exports by leveraging Japanese investment in the country. He highlighted Gobel's vision for enhancing manufacturing competitiveness and expanding international market access.

Ali Khamenei Buried in Mashhad After Week-Long Procession

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was laid to rest at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, concluding a week of funeral rites attended by millions. The ceremonies drew political delegates from over 45 countries and religious figures from more than 90 nations. Khamenei was reportedly killed on 28 February 2026, coinciding with the first day of a US-Israeli military offensive against Iran.

BNI Expands Collaboration, Brings Batik-Assisted Partners to Puspa Nuswantara

State-owned lender BNI is showcasing three of its assisted small business partners at the Puspa Nuswantara 2026 exhibition in Jakarta to promote batik preservation and the creative economy. The initiative aims to broaden market access and collaboration opportunities for local artisans, including eco-batik producers from Kampoeng Laweyan and jewellery makers from Palangkaraya. The bank views the exhibition as a platform to strengthen the competitiveness of Indonesia's culture-based creative industries.

Rp 20 Trillion Injection for BPJS Kesehatan Stalled by Regulation

The Indonesian government is unable to disburse a planned Rp 20 trillion bailout to the national health insurer BPJS Kesehatan despite approval from the Ministry of Finance. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated the disbursement is held up by regulatory hurdles, specifically the need for a Government Regulation on Asset and Liability Management. BPJS Kesehatan is currently facing a monthly deficit of Rp 2 trillion, with its claim ratio exceeding 108 percent.

Government Issues Presidential Instruction to Protect Sumatran and Kalimantan Elephants

President Prabowo Subianto has issued Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2026, mandating the protection of Sumatran and Kalimantan elephant populations and their habitats. The directive requires nine ministries, along with regional governments and the police, to coordinate efforts ensuring that infrastructure development does not disrupt elephant corridors. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni described the policy as a 'gift' for a recently born elephant calf named Nona Seroja.

KPK Seizes Gold and Foreign Currency Worth Billions in Sukoharjo Regent Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized gold bullion and foreign currency worth billions of rupiah during a sting operation targeting Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani. The operation, conducted in the Solo Raya area, also resulted in the detention of several civil servants and private individuals. The case is suspected to involve extortion, though the full chronology has yet to be disclosed.

Defence Minister confirms YTP readiness to guard and develop Tuban region

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has verified the operational readiness of the Territorial Development Infantry Battalion (YTP) 932/Sunan Bonang in Tuban, East Java. The unit is tasked with bolstering regional defence and stimulating village economies through agricultural and fisheries projects on idle land. The minister also stressed the battalion's role in infrastructure repair following natural disasters, ensuring food security and community welfare.

Surge in New Wealth Drives Boom in Private Jet Sales

A wave of liquidity events in the technology sector, led by Elon Musk's record-breaking SpaceX IPO and the AI startup boom, is creating a new class of ultra-wealthy investors. This sudden accumulation of wealth is directly fuelling a sharp increase in private jet purchases and fractional ownership programmes. Industry data shows private flights and jet deliveries have surged, with brokers reporting that tech clients now dominate their business.

Prabowo Urges Bureaucrats, TNI, Polri, and Prosecutors to Introspect: All Facilities Come from the People

President Prabowo Subianto has called on all state apparatus, including bureaucrats, the military, police, and prosecutors, to engage in self-reflection regarding their service. Speaking at a dam inauguration in West Lombok, he reminded them that their ranks, authority, and facilities are funded by the people. He stressed that their primary duty must be to serve the nation's interests rather than personal or group agendas.

Trump Sacks Two Federal Election Commissioners Ahead of Midterm Elections

US President Donald Trump has dismissed the two remaining Democratic commissioners on the Federal Election Assistance Commission, effectively decapitating the bipartisan body months before the 2026 midterm elections. The move, which follows the earlier resignation of two Republican commissioners, has drawn sharp criticism from state officials and lawmakers who warn it threatens election integrity. The White House cited no specific cause for the terminations, which come after legal battles over the president's push to add citizenship proof requirements to voter registration forms.

From Pulubrayan Depot, KAI Prepares to Strengthen North Sumatra–Aceh Connectivity

PT Kereta Api Indonesia is enhancing its maintenance capabilities at the century-old Balai Yasa Pulubrayan depot in Medan to support current passenger services and prepare technical data for a proposed railway link between North Sumatra and Aceh. The state-owned operator served 1.39 million customers in the first half of 2026, a 5% increase year-on-year, demonstrating strong demand on key regional routes. KAI emphasised that any network expansion requires comprehensive government-led studies, while its immediate priority remains ensuring safe and reliable operations.

Rieke pushes for child protection reform following Lombok student case

House of Representatives member Rieke Diah Pitaloka has called for comprehensive reform of child protection systems in educational institutions following an alleged student burning case in Lombok. She stressed that the legal process must be accompanied by full victim recovery, including healthcare and psychosocial rehabilitation. Rieke also urged the government to draft a national regulation on eliminating violence and protecting victims within educational settings.

Sukoharjo Regent Sting: KPK Seizes Gold and Foreign Currency Worth Billions of Rupiah

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation against Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani over alleged extortion of local government officials. During the operation, investigators seized gold bullion and foreign currency, including Australian and Singaporean dollars, with a total value reaching billions of rupiah. The regent is currently undergoing intensive questioning at the KPK headquarters.

Unemployed Man in Dompu Arrested as Both Drug User and Dealer

Police in Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, have arrested a 35-year-old man suspected of being both a user and dealer of methamphetamine. The arrest followed a tip-off from residents about frequent drug transactions at his home in Cempi Jaya village. Officers seized 6.67 grams of ready-to-sell methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and Rp 8 million in suspected proceeds.

Closing Loopholes: Corruption and Money Laundering Investigations Must Be Followed by System Reform

Political and public policy observer Prof. Nyarwi Ahmad has expressed full support for the Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) of the Indonesian National Police in their investigation of corruption and money laundering cases. He emphasised that firm law enforcement must be accompanied by comprehensive system and cultural reforms to prevent future crimes. Ahmad added that professional and transparent legal action is crucial for maintaining public trust and the optimism of Indonesia's younger generation.

Finance Minister Purbaya Meets Montara Oil Spill Victims' Representatives

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa met with representatives of East Nusa Tenggara communities still suffering economic and environmental damage from the 2009 Montara oil spill. The discussion focused on the ongoing decline in fishermen's catches, disrupted aquaculture, and reduced incomes, emphasising that the issue is both an ecological and economic welfare concern. Purbaya plans to visit NTT soon to directly assess the situation and ensure the compensation process proceeds fairly.

Bahlil's Impression of Rachmat Gobel: A Role Model for Young Entrepreneurs

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of prominent entrepreneur and NasDem Party politician Rachmat Gobel. Bahlil recalled Gobel as a supportive figure who was the first cabinet member to congratulate him upon his election as HIPMI chairman in 2015. The minister described the late trade minister as a protector of junior entrepreneurs and a significant loss to the nation's business community.

Central Java Governor Says 'Fish Rots from the Head' After Regent's Corruption Arrest

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi expressed concern over the arrest of Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), stating he had repeatedly warned regional heads about clean governance. Luthfi emphasised that leaders must set an example in transparency and accountability, and voiced his support for the KPK's enforcement action.

State-Owned Mining Firm's Education Investment to Forge a Golden Generation

Indonesia's state-owned mining holding company, MIND ID, is channelling significant social investment into education to support the nation's 'Golden Generation' vision. Key initiatives include the MINDucation programme, which provides boarding school facilities and tutoring for underprivileged students in mining operational areas. The programme has already helped 75% of its recent participants gain admission to state universities.

NTB Police Clarify Cancellation of Burn Victim Santri's Trip to Denny Sumargo Podcast

The NTB Regional Police have clarified that they did not prevent two santri, victims of an alleged arson attack in Central Lombok, from travelling to Jakarta for a podcast, but rather intervened because the victims were still undergoing hospital treatment and lacked official permission. The police emphasised that their action was to protect the victims' rights and ensure the ongoing investigation, which included a scheduled additional examination, was not disrupted. The case involves a fatal fire at an Islamic boarding school that killed one student and left two others with severe, permanent burns.

Jampidsus: MBG corruption case in filing process, 47 names under investigation

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, has confirmed that the investigation into alleged corruption within the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) is now at the filing stage. The number of individuals suspected of involvement in the scheme has risen from 41 to 47, including figures from political circles. Seven suspects have already been named, including former officials of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN).

Manggarai Rail Workshop Completes Periodic Maintenance on 246 Carriages in First Half of 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's historic Manggarai Rail Workshop completed periodic maintenance on 246 passenger carriages during the first half of 2026, surpassing its target by 2 per cent. The state-owned railway operator also carried out generator overhauls, wheel repairs, and modifications to create affordable 'People's Economy Class' carriages. The workshop, which began operations in 1920, remains central to ensuring the safety and reliability of Indonesia's rolling stock.

ParagonCorp and Jakarta Government Collaborate to Revitalise RPTRA Bhinneka

ParagonCorp has partnered with the Jakarta Provincial Government to revitalise the RPTRA Bhinneka Swadarma public space in a phased development project. The initiative, which includes renovating a library and sports facilities, was inaugurated by Governor Pramono Anung as part of the city's anniversary celebrations. The collaboration aims to create an inclusive, green, and productive community hub that fosters learning and empowerment.

Three Men in Serang Named Suspects for Alleged Extortion of Company

Police in Banten have named three men as suspects for allegedly extorting a company by threatening violence and disrupting operations. The case stems from a dispute over unpaid compensation and CSR funds related to a halted reclamation project. The suspects are accused of orchestrating a demonstration and attempting to occupy a company vessel to pressure the firm into payment.

South Jakarta PKK Encourages Use of Social Media to Promote Child-Friendly Public Spaces

The South Jakarta Family Empowerment and Welfare (PKK) team is urging managers of child-friendly integrated public spaces (RPTRA) to utilise social media as a platform for information and community engagement. The initiative aims to transform these spaces into hubs for family development and public education, extending beyond their traditional role as playgrounds. Officials emphasised the need for continuous innovation and strong coordination to ensure the facilities remain safe, clean, and responsive to diverse community needs.

Addressing 2027 Hajj Costs, Minister Prioritises Pilgrim Welfare

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has stated that the 2027 Hajj travel costs (BPIH) must be carefully calculated due to rising external pressures, including currency fluctuations and increased service tariffs in Saudi Arabia. Despite these challenges, the government is committed to ensuring that any adjustments do not overly burden pilgrims, seeking a balance between financial sustainability and affordability. A new scheme is being projected with a 60% subsidy from the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) to ease direct costs for pilgrims.

AGO Investigates 47 Names in Alleged Corruption at National Nutrition Agency

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has expanded its investigation into alleged corruption at the National Nutrition Agency, with the number of individuals under scrutiny rising from 41 to 47. The Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes emphasised that the inclusion of these names does not automatically imply guilt, and the process of investigation and evidence gathering is ongoing. Authorities are also coordinating to ensure the probe does not disrupt the agency's priority programme of providing free nutritious meals.

Health Minister: Numerous Bullying Complaints Against Specialist Doctors in Manado

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has revealed his ministry received a significant number of reports alleging bullying against participants of the Specialist Doctor Education Programme (PPDS) at Sam Ratulangi University and Prof. Dr. R.D. Kandou Central General Hospital in Manado. The ministry plans a special review of the institution, which previously had its internal medicine programme suspended in 2024 due to similar findings of senior doctors bullying juniors and demanding unofficial fees. The review follows the recent death of an anaesthesiology resident, Adrian Rantung, amid suspicions of suicide linked to educational pressures and alleged bullying.

Airlangga says B50 programme could save Rp177 trillion in foreign exchange

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that the B50 biodiesel programme could save Indonesia up to Rp177 trillion in foreign exchange by eliminating diesel imports. The initiative is also projected to cut carbon emissions by 44 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent. The government views the programme as a key strategy to bolster energy sovereignty amidst global uncertainty.

Minister Bahlil: Rachmat Gobel Instrumental in Mentoring Young Entrepreneurs and Business World

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has paid tribute to the late Rachmat Gobel, remembering him as a business figure who played a key role in mentoring young entrepreneurs and strengthening the national economy. Bahlil recalled Gobel's support for the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (Hipmi) during his tenure as Trade Minister in 2015. Trade Minister Budi Santoso also highlighted Gobel's dedication to boosting national exports and manufacturing investment.

KAI Handles 12,656 Lost Items Worth an Estimated IDR 8.86 Billion in First Half of 2026

State-owned railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) managed 12,656 lost and found items across its stations and trains during the first semester of 2026, with an estimated total value of IDR 8.86 billion. The items ranged from everyday belongings like bags and clothing to valuable electronics, jewellery, and cash. KAI emphasised that its Lost and Found service is a key part of customer experience, ensuring items are securely recorded, stored, and verified before being returned to their owners free of charge.

Indonesia's Alumina Exports to China Surge Over 1,000%, Singapore Sees 14 Million Percent Jump

Indonesia's alumina exports to China skyrocketed by 1,012.59% year-on-year in the first five months of 2026, reaching US$127.1 million, driven by surging demand from China's electric vehicle and solar energy sectors. While Malaysia remains the largest market, shipments there and to India have declined sharply, positioning China as a crucial growth driver. The surge aligns with Beijing's strategic shift to retain more aluminium domestically for high-value manufacturing after scrapping export tax rebates.

Bali begins discussions on Nusa Penida ocean current power plant potential

The Bali Provincial Government has initiated talks on developing an Ocean Current Power Plant (PLTAL) in the Nusa Penida Strait, following a study by the Bandung Institute of Technology and the University of Maryland. Governor Wayan Koster emphasised the need for Bali to achieve energy independence by harnessing its significant marine renewable energy potential, reducing reliance on supplies from outside the province. The initiative aligns with the province's vision for clean and renewable energy self-sufficiency amid rising consumption driven by industrial and tourism growth.

Japan Registers 'Japanese Tea' Under GI System to Combat Imitations

Japan's agriculture ministry has registered 'Japanese tea' under its geographical indication (GI) protection system in a broad move to distinguish domestically produced green tea from foreign imitations. The registration, which unusually does not specify a particular production region, aims to enhance the brand's value and boost exports amid rising global popularity. The government will crack down on false labelling and other violations.

Rupiah Strengthens Ahead of Weekend, US Dollar Falls to Rp18,045

The Indonesian rupiah closed stronger against the US dollar on Friday, appreciating 0.14% to Rp18,045, reversing a recent slide to a one-month low. The currency's gains were supported by a weakening US dollar index amid renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and shifting market expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate policy. Analysts cautioned that Indonesia still requires significant foreign capital inflows in the second half of 2026 to maintain balance of payments stability and support the rupiah.

Police Tighten Security at Metro Jaya HQ to Secure Evidence and Witnesses

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have tightened security at their headquarters following a series of raids. The increased measures aim to protect evidence and witnesses related to high-profile corruption and money laundering cases, including those involving coal, Asabri, Jiwasraya, and Krakatau Steel.

DPR calls for stronger regional regulatory harmonisation to prevent overlaps

A member of the House of Representatives has urged the government to strengthen the harmonisation of regional regulations to prevent overlapping rules and ensure alignment with the national legal system. The lawmaker stressed that regional legal products must offer substantive quality, legal certainty, and tangible benefits to the public. The proposal highlights the strategic role of the Ministry of Law's regional offices in improving coordination and utilising digital technology to accelerate the harmonisation process.

BRI Offers ORI030 with Up to 7% Coupon, Expanding Public Investment Access

State-owned Bank BRI is facilitating public investment in the government's latest retail bond series, ORI030, which offers fixed coupons of up to 7% per annum. The bonds, available in 3-year and 6-year tenors, are fully guaranteed by the state and can be purchased digitally through platforms like BRImo. BRI aims to broaden access to secure investment instruments while encouraging retail participation in national development.

National Mental Health Centre RS Marzoeki Mahdi Strengthens Mental Health Services for Workers

The National Mental Health Centre at RS Marzoeki Mahdi has partnered with PT Otsuka Indonesia to launch the 'Mental Ease at Workplaces' programme, aiming to improve access to mental health services for employees. The initiative, which includes assessments and wellbeing follow-ups, addresses the significant economic impact of poor workplace mental health, estimated to cost the global economy US$1 trillion annually. The collaboration aligns with the World Mental Health Report 2022's call for mental health support beyond the health sector.

Sukoharjo Regent Arrested by KPK, Governor Luthfi Assures Public Services Uninterrupted

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has guaranteed that governance and public services in Sukoharjo will continue as normal following the arrest of Regent Etik Suryani by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). Luthfi expressed concern over the incident and stressed that leaders must set an example of integrity. He announced that a team would be deployed to assist the Sukoharjo administration and that an acting regent would be appointed once a final legal decision is reached.

Three Hamlets in Bogor's Rancabungur Hit by Drought, Residents Forced to Buy Clean Water

A prolonged dry season has triggered a severe water shortage in three hamlets within Bantarsari Village, Bogor Regency, affecting over 1,600 residents. The drought has depleted local springs, forcing villagers to seek out alternative water sources or purchase clean water in bulk for their daily needs. Local authorities have begun distributing emergency water supplies, delivering 10,000 litres to the affected communities.

KPK: Yaqut Cholil Qoumas Returned to Detention Following Surgery

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been transferred back to a KPK detention centre after recovering from surgery. He had been hospitalised at the Kramat Jati Police Hospital for intensive treatment related to a digestive tract issue. The case involves alleged corruption in the management of Indonesia's 2023-2024 Hajj quota, with state losses estimated at Rp622 billion.

Digital Transformation and AI to Become New Engines of Economic Growth

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has identified digital transformation and artificial intelligence as the next engines for Indonesia's economic growth. He noted that a new source of growth is needed as the national economy has remained at around 5 per cent for the past seven years. The government is pursuing international collaborations, including with the UK on semiconductor chips and with the US on AI, to build a supporting ecosystem.

Cooperatives Minister Reveals Rachmat Gobel's Kindness: Donated Rp1 Billion for Sarekat Islam

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has shared a personal memory of the late Rachmat Gobel, highlighting a Rp1 billion donation Gobel made to help Sarekat Islam purchase a building. Juliantono described the contribution as the fulfilment of a promise and a source of ongoing charitable reward for the deceased. The minister also noted Gobel's deep family ties to the Sarekat Islam organisation.

Health Ministry and Partners Launch SPEED to Transform Midwifery Education

Indonesia's Ministry of Health, alongside KOICA and UNFPA, has launched the SPEED programme to overhaul midwifery education and reduce maternal mortality. The initiative aims to reform pre-service training at 12 polytechnics to meet international standards and build a national digital platform for continuous professional development. The project targets direct benefits for over 8,000 students and instructors, with the broader goal of cutting the maternal mortality rate to below 77 per 100,000 live births by 2029.

Passed Away at 63, Here is the Fortune of Rachmat Gobel Reaching IDR 500 Billion

Rachmat Gobel, a prominent Indonesian businessman, former Minister of Trade, and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has passed away at the age of 63. His official state wealth report reveals a net worth of IDR 489.7 billion, largely derived from long-term investments and property. The portfolio includes significant land and building assets in strategic locations and securities, reflecting decades of building his business empire.

Police Name Two Suspects in Case of Three Students Burned at Lombok Islamic Boarding School

Police in Central Lombok have named two suspects, including a minor and a senior figure, following a fire at the Rosyidatusshaulatiyah Al Ibrahimy NW Islamic boarding school that resulted in severe injuries and one death. The incident occurred in December 2025 but was only reported to authorities in June 2026, prompting a criminal investigation. Investigators allege the fire started when one of the suspects poured petrol onto an open flame while students were making slingshots, causing an uncontrollable blaze.

Judge: Customs Officials Rented Safe House for Fear of Wives Discovering Bribe Money

A Jakarta Corruption Court judge has revealed that two senior Directorate General of Customs and Excise officials rented an apartment as a safe house to conceal bribe money from a cargo company. The officials, Rizal and Sisprian Subiaksono, allegedly feared their wives would discover the illicit funds. The apartment was reportedly paid for using money from the same bribery scheme involving Blueray Cargo.

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Vows to Account for Rp476 Billion Found at His Home

Febrie Ardiansyah, the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus), has stated he will take responsibility for evidence and cash totalling Rp476 billion discovered at his residence. The assets were found during a search by a joint police team in Sentul, Bogor. The Attorney General's Office has stated it respects the ongoing legal process conducted by the police.

After Police Search, Jampidsus Advises Investigators to Audit 'Blackout' Case First

Following a police search of his residence, Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has questioned his alleged connection to a corruption case involving a recent nationwide blackout. Febrie stated he did not understand the link between himself and the coal procurement issues at power plants. He advised police investigators to conduct a comprehensive audit of the procurement process before pursuing criminal charges.

Moment of Departure for the Late Rachmat Gobel's Remains to Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

The remains of the late Rachmat Gobel were transported from the funeral home to the Kalibata National Main Heroes Cemetery on Friday. A military ceremony combined with traditional Gorontalo customs marked the final tribute before departure. Family, officials, and mourners gathered to pay their last respects.

Gold Remains the Main Growth Engine for ANTM

PT ANTAM (Persero) Tbk (ANTM) continues to rely on its gold business as its primary growth driver, buoyed by high global gold prices driven by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. The company reported a 58% year-on-year increase in net profit for the first quarter of 2026, reaching Rp3.66 trillion. ANTM is also advancing national gold sovereignty through strategic supply agreements with domestic miners to secure raw material for its LBMA-certified refinery.

RANS Denies Money Laundering Rumours as It Officially Lists on IDX Today

PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia has dismissed rumours of money laundering coinciding with its initial public offering on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The company's lead commissioner emphasised that the IPO process strictly adhered to all regulations set by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the IDX. Shares of the Raffi Ahmad-backed firm surged 34% on their trading debut, hitting the upper auto-rejection limit.

Ahead of Jakarta's 500th Anniversary, Academics Highlight the 'Imperialism' of Foreign Languages in Public Spaces

As Jakarta approaches its 500th anniversary, linguist Miftahulkhairah Anwar warns that the dominance of foreign languages on signage and business names represents a form of linguistic imperialism that erodes national identity. She argues that the city's linguistic landscape is a reflection of its cultural direction, with Indonesian and Betawi languages losing prestige and representation. The proposed solution is 'Linguistic Entrepreneurship', a strategy to develop commercially attractive and aesthetically appealing Indonesian terminology to compete with foreign terms without resorting to outright rejection of international languages.

Baznas Bazis DKI Distributes Rp3.44 Billion to Orphans in Muharram Programme

The Jakarta Provincial Government, in partnership with Baznas Bazis DKI, has distributed Rp3.44 billion in aid to 3,440 orphans across the capital. The initiative, part of the Muharram 1448 H programme, includes nutritional packages, shopping vouchers, and school supplies. Governor Pramono Anung praised the collaboration and highlighted the institution's role in broader social programmes, including a certificate amnesty scheme for underprivileged students.

Jampidsus Febrie on Blackout Case Link: I Don't Understand

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has denied any knowledge of his alleged connection to a police investigation into coal corruption linked to a power blackout. He stated he does not understand the link between the special crimes unit and the blackout, while suggesting investigators conduct a comprehensive audit of coal procurement for power plants. Febrie advised that the audit should cover quantities, quality, transactions, and procedures to determine if any unlawful acts occurred.

Raffi-Nagita's RANS Entertainment Dismisses Money Laundering Allegations

PT Rans Entertainment Tbk (RANS), the company owned by celebrity couple Raffi Ahmad and Nagita Slavina, has firmly denied rumours that it was used as a vehicle for money laundering. The company's management asserted that its entire business process and initial public offering (IPO) underwent rigorous regulatory scrutiny. RANS's President Commissioner emphasised that the allegations are baseless, citing the company's strong fundamentals and compliance with all legal, accounting, and public disclosure requirements.

POJ and TOP Synergy Opens New Job Opportunities for Drivers, Adds Ride-Hailing Fleet

PT Pesonna Optima Jasa (POJ) and PT Trans Optima Perkasa (TOP) have formed a strategic partnership to expand vehicle access for ride-hailing driver partners, initially handing over 250 units to Gojek drivers. The fleet includes 50 electric vehicles, supporting carbon reduction goals, with plans to expand to 1,000 units after a three-month evaluation. The collaboration also aims to promote financial inclusion by introducing gold investment products to the ride-hailing ecosystem.

ADB Maintains Indonesia's 2026 Economic Growth Projection at 5.2 Percent

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has kept its 2026 economic growth forecast for Indonesia unchanged at 5.2 percent, positioning the country as the second-fastest growing economy in Southeast Asia after Vietnam. The projection remains steady despite the bank cutting its overall outlook for developing Asia and the Pacific to 4.9 percent, citing prolonged disruptions in global energy markets due to Middle East conflicts. Indonesia's growth is expected to outpace regional peers including Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand.

KPK Seizes Precious Metals and Billions of Rupiah in Sukoharjo Regent Sting Operation

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confiscated precious metals and billions of rupiah in cash, including foreign currency, during a sting operation targeting Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani. The operation relates to alleged extortion of local government officials in Central Java. A total of 18 individuals were initially detained, with nine brought to Jakarta for intensive questioning.

Southwest Papua Provincial Government Grants Rp1.9 Billion Budget to Support Political Party Development

The Southwest Papua Provincial Government has allocated a grant of Rp1.9 billion for the 2026 fiscal year to support political party development and political education. The funds will be distributed to 11 political parties with seats in the regional parliament, with amounts calculated based on their vote share in the 2024 general election. The provincial government emphasised that the use of these funds must be accountable and transparent, subject to audit by the Supreme Audit Agency.

KPK Updates: 18 Arrested in Sting Operation Involving Sukoharjo Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has updated its report, confirming the arrest of 18 individuals in a sting operation targeting Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani. Nine of those detained, including the regent and several civil servants, have been transported to Jakarta for intensive questioning. The operation is linked to alleged extortion of local government officials in Central Java.

Investigation into Alleged Coal Corruption Worth IDR 500 Billion Expected to Strengthen Public Trust

The investigation into alleged corruption in coal supply and money laundering, involving assets estimated at IDR 500 billion, is seen as a crucial test for law enforcement's commitment to professionalism and transparency. An academic from Universitas Airlangga has urged investigators to apply the principle of equality before the law without intervention. The case involves alleged irregularities in procurement by PT UBP and PT BRA, which reportedly risked disrupting coal supplies to power plants and causing blackouts.

Anies Prays for Exposure of Those Committing Crimes Against the People

Former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan, while performing umrah in Madinah, offered prayers for the exposure of individuals secretly conspiring to commit crimes against the Indonesian people. He also prayed for strength for those upholding justice and for leaders to choose the righteous path. The message, shared via social media, comes as he continues to monitor political developments back home.

Hotman Paris Criticises Handling of Santri Burning Case, Claims Victim Isolated Instead of Treated

Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has publicly criticised the handling of a case involving three santri who were burned at an Islamic boarding school in Central Lombok. He alleges that one of the surviving victims is being isolated at Bhayangkara Hospital rather than receiving necessary surgery, and that his legal team has been denied access to visit the victim.

Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh Assists 1,100 Nationals Held in Detention Facilities

The Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh is providing consular assistance to approximately 1,100 Indonesian citizens detained in Cambodian facilities following a public order crackdown. Many were caught in operations targeting scam centres, with the embassy issuing emergency travel documents and urging repatriation. Since January, over 12,000 Indonesians have sought help to return home, with nearly 6,000 already facilitated.

Indonesia Ranks Third Globally in Leprosy Cases, Survivors Face Stigma

Indonesia remains the country with the third-highest number of leprosy cases worldwide, recording 14,000 to 16,000 new cases annually. The government aims to significantly increase case detection to curb transmission, while survivors continue to battle pervasive social stigma and discrimination. A multi-sectoral approach involving regional governments and the WHO is being mobilised to eliminate the disease and its associated prejudice.

KLH to continue Jatiwaringin landfill investigation after fire extinguished

The Ministry of Environment will proceed with an investigation into the fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang Regency once the extinguishing process is complete. The main 15-hectare area of the landfill has been fully extinguished and is now in an intensive cooling phase. Meanwhile, the Tangerang Regency government has prepared two hectares of new land for temporary waste disposal to ensure services remain uninterrupted.

BNI Showcases Three Assisted SMEs at Puspa Nuswantara 2026

State-owned bank BNI is sponsoring three of its mentored small and medium enterprises at the Puspa Nuswantara 2026 exhibition in Jakarta. The initiative aims to promote traditional batik and local crafts, expand market access, and foster collaboration. The event highlights BNI's commitment to cultural preservation and strengthening the creative economy under the coordination of Danantara Indonesia.

Airlangga optimistic of economic rebound in second half of 2026

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto expressed confidence that Indonesia's economy will recover in the third and fourth quarters of 2026, despite recent dips in consumer confidence and manufacturing activity. He attributed the post-holiday decline in the Consumer Confidence Index to a normal correction after the Eid al-Fitr period, while an economist warned that the prolonged contraction in the manufacturing PMI signals deep structural challenges requiring urgent policy intervention.

Viral Video of Tourists 'Expelled' from Blue Lagoon Beach: Stall Owner Clarifies

A stall owner at Bali's Blue Lagoon Beach has refuted claims that she expelled local tourists to make room for foreign visitors, after a video of the incident went viral. Luh Putu Susiani explained she merely asked the group not to play cards for an extended period after they had finished eating, due to limited table capacity. She maintains she has never discriminated against any visitors at the public beach.

Israeli Intelligence Passes on 'Specific' Iranian Plot to Assassinate Trump

Israel has reportedly shared fresh intelligence with Washington detailing a new and specific Iranian plot to assassinate US President Donald Trump. The warning comes amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with Tehran having long vowed revenge for the 2020 killing of General Qassem Soleimani. Trump has acknowledged the threats, stating he is aware his name appears on Iranian target lists.

Blueray Boss Sentenced to Two Years in Customs Bribery Case

The Jakarta Corruption Court has sentenced John Field, a senior figure at Blueray Cargo, to two years in prison for bribing customs officials. Two of his subordinates also received prison sentences for their roles in the scheme. The bribes, totalling billions of rupiah, were paid to expedite the clearance of the company's imported goods.

Palestinian Officials Condemn Israel's New Move to Freeze Tax Revenues

Palestinian officials have strongly condemned an initial Knesset vote on a bill to freeze additional customs revenues, branding it 'organised crime' and 'financial piracy'. The legislation, which passed its first reading, is seen as a dangerous legal shift aimed at dismantling the Palestinian Authority. Israel currently withholds approximately 4.6 billion US dollars in clearance revenues, which constitute the majority of the PA's income.

Prabowo Says He Still Owes a Debt to the People of NTB

President Prabowo Subianto acknowledged a debt of gratitude to the people of West Nusa Tenggara for their unwavering political support despite his previous electoral defeats. He made the remarks while inaugurating the Meninting Dam in West Lombok. The president also simultaneously inaugurated four other dams across Aceh, Central Java, and Bali.

From 'Baju Bekas' to 'Thrifting': How Prestige is Reshaping Our Vocabulary

The shift in Indonesian vocabulary from terms like 'baju bekas' (used clothes) to 'preloved' or 'thrifting' reflects a broader sociological phenomenon of social distinction. This linguistic rebranding, influenced by globalisation and social media, strips away stigma and reframes consumption as an aesthetic, environmentally conscious lifestyle choice. The trend extends to psychological terms like 'tantrum' and 'burnout', which provide clinical legitimacy to everyday experiences, signalling a desire to connect with global narratives and elevate social status through language.

Ministry targets 361,000 teachers for coding, AI training in 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education plans to train over 361,000 teachers and school staff in deep learning, coding, and artificial intelligence during 2026. The initiative aims to embed conscious, meaningful, and joyful learning philosophies directly into classroom practice. This follows a 2025 programme that nearly reached its targets, with coding and AI training covering 97 percent of the intended 55,000 schools.

Foreign Data Centres Flood Indonesia with Billions of Dollars in Investment and Engineer Recruitment

Indonesia is experiencing a surge in foreign investment for artificial intelligence data centres, with installed capacity projected to rise from 580 MW to 1.3 GW. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that total investment could reach tens of billions of US dollars, with firms like Arm Ltd and Nvidia committing to train and recruit 15,000 Indonesian engineers. The government is also expanding supporting infrastructure, including renewable energy and submarine fibre optic cable landing points.

Folklore: A Cultural Heritage Rich in Values, Not Historical Fact

An editorial argues that Indonesian folklore should be appreciated for its moral and cultural value rather than interpreted as literal historical truth. The piece emphasises that these stories, passed down through generations, contain valuable lessons on honesty, humility, and responsibility. Readers are encouraged to adopt a critical yet appreciative approach to extract the embedded wisdom without accepting fantastical elements as fact.

Tourism Ministry Seeks to Boost Quality Tourist Arrivals from India

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry is intensifying efforts to attract high-quality tourists from India, capitalising on the momentum from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent state visit. The ministry aims to leverage increased confidence in safety and promote diverse destinations beyond Bali, such as Yogyakarta and Labuan Bajo. Indian tourist arrivals have shown a steady increase, with a target of up to 820,000 visits set for 2026.

MPR Deputy Speaker: Carbon Registry Needs Regulatory Support to Strengthen Carbon Market

MPR Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno has called for stronger regulations to support the newly launched Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK), ensuring legal certainty for businesses and investors. He revealed that parliament is discussing revisions to the Environmental Protection Law and a new Climate Change Control Bill to provide a legal foundation for carbon trading. Soeparno emphasised that Indonesia's vast natural resources position it as a potential major player in the global carbon market, provided governance improvements align with environmental protection and community empowerment.

Central Java Governor on Sukoharjo Regent's Arrest: A Rotten Fish Starts from the Head

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has expressed concern following the corruption arrest of Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani by the KPK, emphasising that all are equal before the law. He stressed that regional leaders must set an example of clean governance, warning that corruption starts from the top. The governor assured that public services in Sukoharjo will continue uninterrupted while awaiting the legal process to appoint an acting regent.

Waste Shipments to Bantargebang Restricted, Pasar Jaya Launches Clean-Up Movement in 146 Markets

Perumda Pasar Jaya has launched the 'GEBER' joint clean market movement across 146 markets in Jakarta to strengthen waste management at the source. The initiative supports the Jakarta provincial government's policy to tighten waste governance ahead of restrictions on shipments to the Bantargebang landfill starting August 2026. The programme includes the provision of segregated waste bins, a pilot project with ITB and PT FDR, and the formation of a 58-member task force to ensure compliance.

Basic Facilities Incomplete, Residents Hesitate to Occupy New Permanent Housing

Residents of Dolok Nauli in North Tapanuli, North Sumatra, are unable to move into 103 newly built permanent houses (Huntap) due to the lack of basic infrastructure. The relocation site, intended for disaster victims, lacks a proper access road, electricity, and clean water, forcing families to remain in temporary shelters or extend rental contracts. Local authorities report that electrical and water networks are currently being installed, while road construction awaits the completion of a retaining wall.

Prabowo Inaugurates Five Dams Across Five Provinces, Costing IDR 9.79 Trillion

President Prabowo Subianto has officially inaugurated five dams across five Indonesian provinces, representing a combined investment of IDR 9.79 trillion. The projects, constructed between 2015 and 2025, are designed to bolster food security, provide clean water, mitigate flooding, and support green energy self-sufficiency. The dams collectively supply raw water, irrigate nearly 40,000 hectares of farmland, and generate significant hydro and floating solar power capacity.

Jampidsus Respects Police Investigation into Corruption and Money Laundering Cases

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has affirmed his office's respect for the ongoing police investigation into alleged corruption and money laundering. He urged the public to respond to legal developments wisely and based on facts. The Attorney General's Office remains committed to handling its own high-profile cases, including transfer pricing and alleged corruption in the free nutritious meal programme.

KPK Still Analysing Kuansing Regent's Envelope, Opens Possibility of Summoning Raja Juli

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is continuing its analysis of a gratification report filed by Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni concerning an envelope left by Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby. The anti-graft body has 30 working days to verify the report and determine if it is linked to the ongoing bribery investigation involving the regent. The KPK has also indicated it may summon the minister for clarification as part of the verification process.

Central Jakarta City Government Holds Fun Walk to Build Synergy Among Employees

The Central Jakarta City Government organised a fun walk to strengthen solidarity and coordination among its civil servants. Mayor Arifin stated the event was designed to foster communication and support the realisation of Jakarta as a competitive, inclusive global city. The administration will evaluate the activity before considering making it a regular agenda.

PKB Plants 2,000 Trees to Mark 28th Anniversary, Targets One Million Nationwide

The National Awakening Party (PKB) launched a nationwide tree-planting movement in Jakarta, starting with 2,000 saplings. Secretary-General Hasanuddin Wahid stated the 'Pesta Pohon' initiative is a reflection of the party's commitment to environmental conservation, not just a ceremonial event. The party aims to plant one million trees across Indonesia, particularly in critical watersheds and forest areas.

Environment Minister: Regional Governments Must Close Open Dumping Landfills by 2027

Environment Minister Moh. Jumhur Hidayat has set a firm 2027 deadline for regional governments to cease all open dumping practices at waste disposal sites. The ministry is intensifying monitoring efforts, particularly ahead of the predicted El Niño, to prevent landfill fires caused by methane gas. Only controlled and sanitary landfills will be permitted to operate beyond the deadline, with hundreds of sites currently under administrative sanctions.

Regional Mediators Strive to Defuse Latest US-Iran Tensions

Regional mediators are actively working to de-escalate the recent flare-up in hostilities between the United States and Iran, which included mutual attacks. Officials from Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia have engaged in diplomatic calls with both sides, aiming to halt the violence and schedule further technical negotiations. The mediation efforts come amid reports that the Iranian assault on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz may have been orchestrated by hardliners seeking to sabotage a nascent understanding between Washington and Tehran.

Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo Spreads to New Regions

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains 'very active' and has not yet peaked, according to health authorities. Health Minister Samuel Roger Kamba stated that the rising case numbers partly reflect expanded community surveillance, while the virus has now spread to new provinces including Tshopo. A clinical trial evaluating monoclonal antibodies and an antiviral drug has commenced, with a separate prophylactic trial set to begin next week.

Jampidsus Confirms He Is Still Receiving Orders to Handle Cases

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, has dismissed speculation about his resignation, stating he remains active and is under orders to expedite high-profile corruption cases. He also confirmed that a house raided by police in Sentul belongs to him and indicated he would provide clarification on the seized cash and 74 kg of gold through proper legal channels.

KKP Builds 10 New Patrol Vessels to Strengthen Natuna Surveillance

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is constructing 10 new patrol vessels and expanding the Batam surveillance base to combat illegal fishing in the North Natuna Sea. The initiative aims to bolster the existing fleet of 34 vessels and enhance monitoring in the resource-rich but vulnerable WPPNRI 711 zone. The expansion is supported by the Attorney General's Office to ensure transparent and accountable procurement.

Rupiah at 18,000 per Dollar, Airlangga Asserts Indonesia's Economic Fundamentals Remain Strong

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has affirmed that Indonesia's economic fundamentals remain robust despite the rupiah weakening to the 18,000 level against the US dollar. He cited strong economic growth of 5.61% and a positive year-to-date trade balance as evidence of resilience. The government is also implementing incentives, including zero import duties on certain raw materials, to maintain stability.

BNI Showcases SME Partners at Puspa Nuswantara 2026 to Promote National Batik

State-owned bank BNI is featuring three of its fostered SME partners at the Puspa Nuswantara 2026 exhibition in Jakarta. The initiative aims to promote authentic Indonesian batik and local crafts while expanding market access for small businesses. The showcased partners include eco-batik producer Kampoeng Laweyan, Wonogiri's Batik Kalimasada, and Kalimantan-based jewellery maker Borneo Queen.

OpenAI's Product Chief Fidji Simo Resigns, Citing Severe Health Battle

Fidji Simo, OpenAI's head of product and business, has resigned to focus on recovering from a severe exacerbation of a chronic illness. Simo, who was diagnosed with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) in 2019, admitted she had previously failed to prioritise her health despite warnings. She will remain with the company as a part-time advisor.

Khofifah optimistic Banyuwangi Central Market will become national benchmark

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has expressed confidence that the revitalised Banyuwangi Central Market will serve as a national model for clean, organised, and sustainable traditional markets. The governor highlighted the market's modern zoning and heritage-sensitive design following a review of the completed project. The facility, which can accommodate 798 traders, is expected to become a hub for economic growth in the region.

Tangerang Coast Strengthened with Mangrove Planting

A total of 1,000 mangrove seedlings have been planted on the coast of Tangerang Regency, Banten, as part of a corporate social responsibility programme. The initiative by PT Patra Jasa aims to protect the shoreline from abrasion, restore ecological functions, and support climate change mitigation. The company emphasised that ongoing maintenance will be crucial to ensure the long-term survival of the mangroves and the benefits they provide to local communities.

Fahri Hamzah Urges Public to Channel Zakat, Infaq, and Sadaqah Through Baznas

Deputy Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Fahri Hamzah has called on the Indonesian public to distribute their zakat, infaq, and sadaqah (ZIS) through the National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas). He emphasised that Baznas should be increasingly trusted as the primary institution for managing these Islamic charitable funds. Hamzah also proposed strengthening collaboration between Baznas and the housing sector, including the establishment of a research fund to help the institution deepen its roots in society.

Jakarta Government Targets Sterilisation of 23,000 Animals in 2026

The Jakarta provincial government aims to sterilise 23,000 animals in 2026, an increase of 2,000 from the previous year. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo acknowledged the target is still insufficient given the rapid breeding rate of cats in the capital and has requested a further increase next year. The administration is also promoting its fleet of mobile veterinary clinics to provide accessible and affordable animal healthcare services across the city.

Pramono Targets Ciliwung River Normalisation Completion by Next Year

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has set a target to complete the normalisation of the Ciliwung River by next year, ahead of the city's 500th anniversary in 2027. The project involves land acquisition across 14 urban villages, with four already having location determination documents signed. A budget of Rp300 billion has been allocated for 2026 to expedite the process and mitigate flooding.

Anomalies in the Ministry of Defence's Hoax Labelling

Fact-checking by Tempo has revealed inconsistencies in the Indonesian Ministry of Defence's labelling of two military training videos as hoaxes. While one video was correctly identified as showing a Civil Service Reserve Component exercise, the other was verified as depicting participants of the controversial SPPI programme. Press freedom groups have criticised the ministry's direct labelling of media content as misinformation, arguing it undermines legitimate media and should be handled through established right-of-reply mechanisms.

RANS Management Denies Money Laundering Rumours

The management of PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia Tbk has firmly denied circulating rumours linking the Raffi Ahmad-owned media and entertainment company to money laundering. The company's President Commissioner stated that RANS had complied with strict regulations during its initial public offering process. The denial comes as the newly listed company seeks to raise Rp 429.25 billion for expansion, including concerts and acquisitions.

Law Ministry in Riau Islands Monitors Robotic System Patent Potential in Batam

The Riau Islands Regional Office of the Ministry of Law is actively monitoring potential patents for robotic systems at a major electronics manufacturer in Batam. The initiative aims to strengthen the intellectual property ecosystem within the manufacturing sector and accelerate the registration of local technology patents. The ministry has pledged comprehensive support, including bringing patent examiners directly to Batam to provide technical assistance.

B50 Biodiesel Rollout Leads to Diesel Surplus in Indonesia

Indonesia is projected to experience a diesel fuel surplus of 3 to 4 million kilolitres following the implementation of the B50 biodiesel mandate. The Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, stated that increased domestic refinery capacity and the high biodiesel blend are key drivers. The government plans to convert the excess diesel into aviation fuel, with construction of a production facility expected to begin by the end of 2026.

Malang Student Bodies Fully Support Police Anti-Corruption Unit in Investigating Three Major Cases

Student executive bodies in Malang Raya have declared their full support for the police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) to thoroughly investigate three high-profile corruption cases. The cases involve alleged corruption in coal procurement at PLN, financial mismanagement at ASABRI, and debt settlement issues at a subsidiary of Krakatau Steel. The investigations, which have included raids uncovering billions of rupiah in gold and foreign currency, are reportedly under the direct attention of President Prabowo Subianto.

Police Officer Bitten by Snake While Pursuing Escaped Prisoner, Hospitalised

A police officer in Southeast Sulawesi was hospitalised after being bitten by a snake during a manhunt for escaped detainees in a mountainous forest area. The officer has since been discharged following a one-day inpatient stay. Authorities have so far recaptured seven of the eleven prisoners who escaped from the North Konawe Police holding cells.

Binus Bandung Opens Scholarships for Prospective Students, Boosting Creative Young Talent

Binus University is offering scholarships of up to 100 per cent for the 2027/2028 academic year at its Bandung campus, which focuses on creative technology and entrepreneurship. The programme aims to widen access to higher education for young Indonesians in fields such as artificial intelligence, digital business, and design. The initiative seeks to nurture a generation of innovators and entrepreneurs capable of delivering positive societal impact.

President Prabowo Suddenly Calls for Self-Reflection Among TNI, Police, and Prosecution Officials

President Prabowo Subianto has urged Indonesian bureaucrats, including military, police, and prosecution officials, to engage in self-reflection. Speaking at the simultaneous inauguration of five dams in West Lombok, he reminded them that their authority and equipment are derived from the people. The call underscores his administration's emphasis on public service accountability within state institutions.

Ombudsman: Universities must drive bureaucratic reform

The Indonesian Ombudsman has called on universities to become key drivers of bureaucratic reform by embedding digital ethics, public policy audits, and participatory oversight into their curricula. The institution highlighted new challenges such as cyber maladministration and data leaks in the digital era. A collaboration agreement was signed with Unisda University to foster research, internships, and legal literacy in public services.

Prabowo Tells Military, Police, Prosecutors to Introspect: Your Stars Are from the People's Money

President Prabowo Subianto has called on all state officials, including the military, police, and prosecutors, to introspect, reminding them that their ranks and facilities are funded by the people. Speaking at a dam inauguration in West Lombok, he stressed that they are public servants and must not forget the source of their authority. Prabowo also expressed gratitude for his administration's early achievements, which he claimed were made despite resistance from corrupt groups.

Democrat Party launches 'Blue Sky Indonesia Asri' movement in Pacitan

The Democrat Party has initiated the 'Gerakan Langit Biru Indonesia Asri' (Blue Sky Beautiful Indonesia Movement) in Pacitan, East Java, as part of its 25th anniversary celebrations. The nationwide campaign, which includes beach clean-ups and turtle hatchling releases, aims to promote environmental cleanliness and public health through community collaboration. The party plans to hold 666 activities across Indonesia until the end of August, involving local governments, communities, and students.

Residents Hysterically Welcome Prabowo for Meninting Dam Inauguration

Thousands of residents in West Lombok enthusiastically greeted President Prabowo Subianto as he arrived to inaugurate the Meninting Dam. The President was accompanied by several senior ministers and officials. Locals expressed hope that the dam, considered vital for the region, would attract further government attention to their area.

West Java Launches Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Highlights Sharia Economy Achievements

The West Java Provincial Government has launched a Muslim-friendly tourism programme aimed at boosting the regional economy by improving worship facilities at tourist sites. The initiative includes plans to provide incentives for MSMEs to obtain halal certification. The province was also named the overall champion of the Adinata Syariah awards for the second consecutive year.

Hundreds of Mataram Schools Change Names, New Signage Can Use BOS Funds

Hundreds of primary schools in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, are changing their names in accordance with a new mayoral regulation, effective from 24 July. The policy aims to standardise school nomenclature across the city, moving away from names based on the three old sub-districts. Schools are permitted to use BOS (School Operational Assistance) funds to cover the cost of replacing their signage.

Boy Thohir and Anindya Bakrie Optimistic IHSG Can Return to 9,000, If...

Prominent Indonesian businessmen Garibaldi 'Boy' Thohir and Anindya Bakrie have expressed confidence that the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) can recover to the 9,000 level, citing strong corporate fundamentals and resilient national economic growth. They emphasised the need for improved communication with retail investors and continued government support for publicly listed companies to counter negative market perceptions. Despite the IHSG's significant year-to-date decline, both figures pointed to Indonesia's stable growth, low inflation, and manageable debt ratio as reasons for long-term optimism.

Government Denies Presidential Regulation 111 Legalises LGBT Discrimination

The Indonesian government has defended Presidential Regulation 111/2025, asserting it targets the 'spread of LGBT culture' as a non-military threat to social values, not the persecution of individuals. Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated the policy aims to protect national resilience and religious norms, while insisting all citizens, including LGBT individuals, are entitled to legal protection. Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have condemned the regulation, arguing it dehumanises the LGBT community and legitimises discrimination by grouping them with serious threats like terrorism.

WWF Indonesia Welcomes Forestry Ministry's Plan to Add 70,000 Forest Rangers

WWF Indonesia has endorsed the Ministry of Forestry's plan to recruit 70,000 additional forest rangers, a move initiated by President Prabowo Subianto and Minister Raja Juli Antoni. The conservation group described the policy as a crucial step to protect Indonesia's 125 million hectares of forest and its endemic wildlife, noting that some areas like Aceh are severely understaffed. However, WWF stressed that the increase in personnel must be accompanied by improvements in training, operational resources, welfare, and occupational safety to ensure effective forest management.

Trade Minister Remembers Rachmat Gobel as a Driver of National Exports and Industry

Trade Minister Budi Santoso has paid tribute to the late Rachmat Gobel, remembering him as a key figure in advancing Indonesia's exports and industrial sector. Santoso recalled their recent meeting discussing strategies to boost exports through Japanese investment. Gobel, a former trade minister and DPR member, passed away on Friday and will be buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

Indonesia Positions Creative Economy as Global Investment Asset

The Indonesian government is promoting its creative economy as a new global investment asset class, with Deputy Minister Irene Umar highlighting efforts to help banks assess intellectual property for financing. Realised investment in the sector reached IDR 132.04 trillion by the third quarter of 2025, contributing 9 per cent of total national investment. The government is also expanding QRIS overseas and leveraging technologies like AI and blockchain to protect copyrights and boost global market access for local creators.

Rachmat Gobel Laid to Rest with Military Funeral Honours

Rachmat Gobel, the prominent entrepreneur and NasDem Party politician, was laid to rest with a military funeral ceremony at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in South Jakarta. The former trade minister and deputy speaker of the House of Representatives passed away suddenly at the age of 63. Party chairman Surya Paloh remembered him as a hardworking figure and a beloved younger brother who dedicated his life to public service and entrepreneurship.

Eddy Soeparno: SRUK Launch Strengthens Carbon Market Governance

Deputy Speaker Eddy Soeparno has welcomed the launch of Indonesia's Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK), calling it a strategic step towards building a credible and transparent national carbon market. He emphasised that the new system must be supported by robust legislation, revealing that parliament is discussing revisions to environmental laws and a new climate change bill. Soeparno stressed that effective carbon trading should also deliver economic value and tangible benefits to communities near forests and conservation areas.

Expert says China's development offers valuable inspiration for developing countries

A Saudi researcher has highlighted China's integrated development approach as a significant inspiration for developing nations, arguing it broadens perspectives beyond Western-centric economic models. Mohammed Al-Sadiq emphasised that China's success stems from long-term planning, practical implementation, and continuous adaptation rather than mere historical coincidence. He noted that the Belt and Road Initiative exemplifies a partnership model based on mutual benefit, investing in infrastructure that fosters sustainable growth in the Global South.

Former Toyota Boss Reveals Rachmat Gobel Was Highly Respected in Japan

The late Rachmat Gobel, a prominent Indonesian businessman and former minister, was remembered for his exceptional network and deep respect in Japan. Former Toyota Astra Motor president director Johnny Darmawan recounted how Gobel's connections spanned business, parliament, and government circles. Anecdotes included securing a meeting with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during a security lockdown and gaining entry to an exclusive restaurant through his personal contacts.

PKB Faction in MPR Delivers Scholarships to Arus Kualan Nature School

The National Awakening Party (PKB) faction in the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has awarded scholarships to students of the Arus Kualan Nature School in Kalimantan. The initiative, part of the party's 28th anniversary, aims to support human resource development through education rooted in indigenous values, culture, and environmental conservation. Party leaders emphasised that the programme reflects a commitment to providing equal opportunities for children across Indonesia.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Encourages Public to Utilise Mobile Veterinary Clinic Services

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has urged residents to take advantage of the city's new Mobile Veterinary Clinics, which offer affordable healthcare services for animals. The five units, operating across Jakarta's administrative areas, provide consultations, vaccinations, sterilisation, and minor surgery with fees regulated by a local bylaw. The initiative aims to maintain Jakarta's rabies-free status and support its vision as a global, animal-friendly city.

Lapindo Mud Embankment at Point 10 D Breaches, Water Flow Approaches Railway Line

A retaining embankment at the Lapindo mudflow disaster site in Sidoarjo, East Java, has suffered a breach, causing a mixture of water and mud to flow dangerously close to an active railway line. The incident at Point 10 D in Porong district was detected early on Friday morning, prompting an emergency response from the Sidoarjo Mud Mitigation Agency (BPLS). Authorities are working to seal the breach using heavy machinery to prevent further disruption to vital public infrastructure.

Israeli Intelligence Claims Iran Is Plotting to Assassinate Trump

Israeli intelligence has reportedly shared a new warning with the United States about a specific Iranian plot to assassinate President Donald Trump, escalating tensions as a ceasefire deal teeters on the brink of collapse. While US intelligence had previously detected threats, the Israeli report is considered more detailed, though some American officials are sceptical of its timing. Trump responded by calling Iran's leadership a 'cancer' that must be eliminated, as diplomatic efforts for a nuclear deal continue behind the scenes.

Tanjung Redeb Prison Officers Foil Methamphetamine Smuggling Attempt

Officers at the Class IIB Tanjung Redeb Detention Centre in Berau, East Kalimantan, successfully intercepted an attempt to smuggle methamphetamine into the facility. The vigilance of the guards during a routine inspection led to the arrest of a 42-year-old visitor and the seizure of the illicit drug. The suspect has been handed over to the Berau Police Narcotics Unit, where further investigation uncovered additional drug paraphernalia at his residence.

Court Finds Dedi Congor Received Rp 30 Billion from Blueray Boss, Total Bribes Hit Rp 91.7 Billion

A Jakarta Corruption Court has declared that Ahmad Dedi, also known as Dedi Congor, received Rp 30 billion from the director of Blueray Cargo. The court detailed that the payments, made in monthly instalments of Rp 5 billion, were intended to resolve customs issues but had no effect. The three Blueray executives were sentenced to prison terms ranging from 1.5 to 2 years for bribing customs officials and the alleged intelligence agency figure, with total illicit payments reaching Rp 91.7 billion.

Jampidsus Declines to Answer Resignation Rumours, Vows to Continue MBG Corruption Probe

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, has refused to comment on speculation regarding his resignation amidst a police investigation into his alleged involvement in corruption. He affirmed his commitment to leading ongoing probes into major cases, including alleged graft in the free nutritious meal programme (MBG) and the mining sector. Adriansyah stated his office respects the legal process conducted by the police while continuing to focus on cases of national interest.

Boy Thohir Confident IHSG Will Rebound to 9,000, Citing Strong Issuer Fundamentals

Garibaldi 'Boy' Thohir expressed optimism that the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index (IHSG) will recover to the 9,000 level, underpinned by the robust fundamentals of listed companies. He noted that the current weakness, with the index down year-to-date, is temporary and that Indonesian equities remain attractive compared to regional peers. Thohir made the remarks while attending the stock market debut of RANS Entertainment Indonesia, a company whose underwriter he partly owns.

128 Civil Servants Dismissed for Absenteeism, Majority Are Permanent PNS

Indonesia's National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has reported that 128 civil servants (ASN) have been dismissed for absenteeism, with the majority being permanent civil servants (PNS). The dismissals, which occurred across 2025 and 2026, are a key factor driving the government's plan to open new civil service recruitment in 2026. Reasons cited for the absenteeism ranged from illness without a doctor's note to remote postings and family issues.

Sukoharjo Deputy Regent Assures Government Continues After KPK Sting Operation

Deputy Regent of Sukoharjo, Eko Sapto Purnomo, has guaranteed that local governance and public services remain unaffected following a sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) that ensnared Regent Etik Suryani. Sapto expressed optimism that the bureaucracy would remain solid despite the legal issues facing the regent. He stated he is awaiting official details from the anti-graft body regarding the case.

MIND ID Group Distributes 5,322 Scholarships to Build a Golden Generation

Indonesia's state-owned mining holding company, MIND ID Group, has distributed 5,322 scholarships in 2025 as part of its social investment in education. The initiative, which includes a flagship programme for coastal students in remote islands, aims to support the government's 12-year compulsory education target and break the poverty cycle. The group reports that 75% of participating students from its Pemali Boarding School programme gained admission to state universities.

Tegal Station Safeguards and Returns Lost Passenger Items Worth Over Rp160 Million

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Operational Area 4 Semarang successfully recovered and returned 71 lost items to passengers at Tegal Station during the first half of 2026. The recovered belongings, predominantly mobile phones, wallets, and electronic devices, had an estimated total value of Rp160.77 million. The company attributes this success to staff integrity, passenger cooperation, and an integrated lost and found system.

IDX Records 327 Issuers Yet to Meet Free Float Rule, Exchange Tightens Supervision

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has reported that 327 listed companies, representing 35.82 per cent of total issuers, have yet to comply with the minimum 15 per cent public shareholding requirement. The bourse is intensifying efforts to enforce the regulation through dedicated task forces, regular consultations, and capacity-building programmes. The exchange will conduct its next compliance review based on reports due by 10 July 2026.

Ali Khamenei laid to rest at Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad

Iran's late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been interred at the Imam Reza Shrine complex in Mashhad, concluding a week-long funeral procession attended by millions. The burial follows his death on 28 February 2026, which Iranian sources attribute to the first day of a US-Israeli military offensive. Dignitaries from over 45 countries and scholars from more than 90 nations participated in the mourning ceremonies.

146 Jakarta Markets to Implement Waste Segregation Movement Starting August

Perumda Pasar Jaya will launch a waste segregation initiative across all 146 of its markets in August 2026, following a gubernatorial instruction. The programme includes providing segregated bins, forming a 58-member task force for supervision and education, and aims to shift away from reliance on the Bantargebang landfill. Officials emphasised the need to transform the initiative from a ceremonial event into a collective culture to create cleaner, modern markets.

Febrie Questions Link Between Jampidsus and Blackout Case, Suggests Coal Procurement Audit

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has questioned the alleged connection between his office and a blackout case, suggesting a comprehensive audit of coal procurement for power plants would be more appropriate. He stated that if the issue concerns coal supply to steam-powered plants (PLTU), the entire procurement process should be evaluated. Febrie also confirmed that all enforcement activities at Jampidsus continue to operate normally despite the circulating reports.

Mentally Disturbed Individual Suspected of Burning Straw, Widow's House in Dompu Destroyed by Fire

A widow's stilt house in Dompu, West Nusa Tenggara, was completely destroyed by fire after her son, suspected of having a mental disorder, allegedly set fire to dry straw stored above the dwelling. The incident occurred in the early hours, with the blaze taking two hours to extinguish. No fatalities were reported, but the family suffered material losses estimated at Rp 50 million.

Japan Pays Final Tribute to Rachmat Gobel, Hails His Role in Bilateral Ties

Japan's chargé d'affaires ad interim, Mitsuru Myochin, expressed deep condolences over the passing of Indonesian business tycoon and parliamentarian Rachmat Gobel. The Japanese Embassy lauded Gobel's tireless dedication to strengthening economic diplomacy and strategic partnerships between the two nations. Gobel, a former trade minister, passed away on 10 July 2026 and will be laid to rest in his hometown of Gorontalo.

Malaysia and Thailand Inaugurate New Border Link to Boost ASEAN Connectivity

Malaysia and Thailand have officially opened a new cross-border route connecting Kedah and Sadao, aiming to enhance regional connectivity. The link is expected to streamline trade, logistics, and supply chains along the ASEAN North-South Economic Corridor while strengthening border security with modern infrastructure.

Minister Yassierli remembers Rachmat Gobel as a paragon of Pancasila industrial relations

Manpower Minister Yassierli has paid tribute to the late legislator and former trade minister Rachmat Gobel, describing him as an inspirational figure in Indonesian industrial relations. Yassierli noted that Gobel's company, Panasonic Gobel, served as a national reference for harmonious workplace practices based on Pancasila principles. The minister offered his condolences following Gobel's passing on Friday morning in Jakarta.

KAI Daop 4 Semarang Records 183 Passenger Tumblers Left Behind in First Half of 2026

PT KAI Daop 4 Semarang reported that 183 tumblers were left behind by passengers on trains and at stations during the first semester of 2026, making them one of the most frequently forgotten items. The trend reflects the growing public habit of carrying personal water bottles, though the railway operator urges travellers to be more vigilant. Overall, 1,289 items with an estimated value of Rp820 million were recorded in the lost and found system during the period.

Australia Bans Moringa Leaf Imports and Sales, Citing Reproductive Safety Concerns

Australian food authorities have banned Moringa oleifera leaves, seeds, and oil from being sold as food due to unresolved safety concerns, particularly regarding reproductive health. The decision by Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has shocked local growers who invested in the crop, while the regulator insists it requires more human studies to establish safe consumption levels. The plant is widely consumed across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, where it is traditionally regarded as a superfood.

Gapura: A 'Village Office' for the Indonesian Diaspora in Philadelphia

Gapura, a community organisation in Philadelphia, has become a vital support hub for the city's 5,000-strong Indonesian diaspora, offering free assistance with everything from consular matters to household issues. Founded in 2022 by Aditya Setyawan, Irza Noer Hajati, and Sinta Penyami Storms, the group operates on a voluntary basis to help fellow citizens navigate life in the United States. The founders describe their work as akin to a local village office, driven by their own experiences of hardship and confusion as new migrants.

Three Drug Lords Killed After Killing Police with Mandau in Katingan

Police have neutralised three members of a drug syndicate in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, who were wanted for the murder of three anti-narcotics officers in Central Kalimantan. The suspects, led by a major drug lord named Bio, violently resisted arrest using traditional mandau machetes, forcing officers to take lethal action. The operation was a direct follow-up to the deadly ambush that claimed the lives of three Katingan Police officers during a raid on 1 July.

Xizang inaugurates first brain-computer interface clinical application centre

The first high-altitude clinical application centre for brain-computer interface (BCI) technology has been inaugurated at Lhasa People's Hospital in the Xizang Autonomous Region. The facility represents a significant advancement in deploying cutting-edge technology to treat complex neurological diseases in the region. The initiative was supported by a medical aid team from Beijing Tiantan Hospital.

Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Admits Sentul House Is Private Property

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has confirmed that a house in Sentul, Bogor, searched by police investigators, is his long-held private property. He asserted the ownership process is legally sound and urged the public to await official explanations regarding evidence found at the site. Febrie also denied any involvement in businesses in Cipete, South Jakarta, which had circulated on social media.

Prabowo: NTB Residents Remain Loyal Despite Repeated Election Defeats

President Prabowo Subianto expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) residents during his previous presidential campaigns. Speaking at a dam inauguration in West Lombok, he acknowledged a debt to the people and asked for calm, noting his presidency still has several years remaining. The visit included the simultaneous inauguration of five dams across the country.

Six New Issuers Debut on the IDX This Week, Who Is the Most Miraculous?

The Indonesia Stock Exchange welcomed six new listings this week, with all shares remaining above their initial public offering prices despite some sharp corrections. PT Prodia Diagnostic Line led gains with an 81.67% surge, while PT Niramas Utama experienced the most dramatic swing, reversing sharply after touching its highest level. A theoretical basket of one lot from each IPO would have yielded a nearly 30% return for investors.

Roy Suryo's Second Pre-trial Verdict Scheduled for 20 July 2026

The South Jakarta District Court has scheduled the verdict for Roy Suryo's second pre-trial motion regarding his defamation case linked to President Joko Widodo's diploma for 20 July 2026. The case follows a previous ruling that declared his search, arrest, and detention unlawful. The court has outlined a tight schedule for hearings and submissions leading up to the decision.

East Java Education Office Ensures 2026 MPLS Free from Bullying

The East Java Education Office (Dindik Jatim) has confirmed that the 2026/2027 School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) will be free from bullying, hazing, and violence. The policy adheres to a new ministerial regulation and will apply to over 618,000 new students across state and private senior high schools, vocational schools, and special needs schools. The office also acknowledged a shortfall in student enrolment in several regions and plans to redirect unplaced pupils to schools with remaining capacity.

ParagonCorp Revitalises Swadarma Bus Stop with Lifts and Disability-Friendly Pedestrian Bridge

Indonesian cosmetics giant ParagonCorp has officially reopened the revitalised Swadarma Transjakarta bus stop in South Jakarta, a project undertaken in collaboration with the Jakarta provincial government. The upgrade introduces lifts, a disability-friendly pedestrian bridge (JPO), and accessible toilets to improve public transport inclusivity. The initiative, located where the company was founded over four decades ago, aligns with Jakarta's policy of providing free Transjakarta fares for 15 vulnerable groups, including the elderly and people with disabilities.

Indonesian Navy Invites Students Aboard Warship for Maritime Education

The Indonesian Navy took hundreds of high school students on a voyage aboard a warship around the Madura Strait to foster maritime awareness. The initiative aimed to inspire the younger generation to appreciate and preserve Indonesia's maritime heritage. The programme also included a visit to the Nanggala submarine monument to honour fallen heroes.

Creative Economy Ministry Initiates IN-APPS 2026 to Strengthen National App Ecosystem

Indonesia's Ministry of Creative Economy has launched the Indonesia Application Summit (IN-APPS) 2026 to position the application sub-sector as a primary engine of creative economic growth. The forum aims to foster collaboration between government, industry, developers, and investors, building on the sub-sector's record investment of Rp54.18 trillion. The initiative serves as a precursor to the World Conference on Creative Economy 2026 and seeks to cement Indonesia's role in the global digital economy.

Education Ministry to Implement Deep Learning Across All Subjects

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing to apply a deep learning pedagogical approach across all school subjects, tailored to the unique characteristics of each discipline. Minister Abdul Mu'ti clarified that deep learning is not a new subject but a method to make learning more meaningful and active. The initiative will be supported by subject-specific teacher training and the proportional use of digital technology, including coding and artificial intelligence.

Mahathir Mohamad Celebrates 101st Birthday, PM Anwar Wishes Him Good Health

Malaysia's former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad celebrated his 101st birthday on 10 July 2026. Current Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim extended his well-wishes for Mahathir's health and blessings via social media, sharing a nostalgic photograph of the two together in their younger days. Mahathir, who served two non-consecutive terms as premier, remains a prominent figure in Malaysian and international politics, including maintaining close ties with Indonesian political figures.

Indonesia to Transfer Rp4 Trillion Down Payment for 2027 Hajj Services to Saudi Arabia

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is preparing to transfer a mandatory down payment of approximately Rp4 trillion (858 million Saudi Riyals) to the Saudi government before the 15 July 2026 deadline. The funds, required for booking services for the 1448 Hijri/2027 Hajj season, are part of a government-to-government transaction mechanism. The Indonesian government is also seeking to maintain the use of two service providers (syarikah) to ensure competition and quality comparison, while the House of Representatives' Commission VIII has approved the transfer to proceed through the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH).

Police Hint at More Raids in Three Corruption Cases After Searching 13 Locations

Investigators from the Indonesian National Police and Metro Jaya Regional Police have indicated that raids may expand beyond the 13 locations already searched in connection with three corruption and money laundering cases. The latest operation targeted a shop house in South Jakarta, with police stating the investigation continues to develop based on witness examinations. Authorities have pledged to provide transparent updates as the probe progresses.

Dieng frost damages 30 hectares of potato crops

Frost in the Dieng Plateau on 9-10 July 2026 has damaged an estimated 25 to 30 hectares of potato crops, according to the Banjarnegara Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Security Agency. Farmers report that younger plants, around 40 days old or less, could not be saved, with estimated losses reaching Rp70 million per hectare. The meteorological agency noted the phenomenon, known locally as 'embun upas', is a common dry season occurrence that also attracts tourists.

Police Anti-Corruption Unit Urged to Thoroughly Investigate Major Graft Case

Anti-corruption activists have rallied outside Jakarta's Metro Jaya Police headquarters, demanding a comprehensive investigation into a major graft case involving the discovery of 74 kg of gold and nearly half a trillion rupiah. The protesters urged the Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortastipidkor) to show courage in exposing the perpetrators and called for the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to assist in the probe. They also warned against any military intervention in the legal process and threatened larger demonstrations if their demands are not met.

KPK Gives Green Light for Mandala Krida Stadium Use After Legal Hurdles Cleared

The KPK has confirmed that the legal status of Yogyakarta's Mandala Krida Stadium is no longer an obstacle, allowing the regional government to fully utilise the facility. The decision resolves a deadlock that previously prevented PSIM Yogyakarta from renovating the venue to meet Liga 1 standards. The stadium was the subject of a graft investigation into its 2016-2017 construction, which led to the imprisonment of four officials and business executives in 2023.

PLN Watch: Coal corruption probe should be momentum for reform

PLN Watch has urged that the investigation into alleged coal supply corruption be used as a catalyst to strengthen primary energy security and prevent electricity disruptions. The organisation warned that supply chain failures could cascade from power plants to cripple economic activity, public services, and daily life. It called for a forensic audit of the entire procurement chain, including quality, volume, and financial flows.

Rachmat Gobel and his legacy of development in Gorontalo

Rachmat Gobel, a prominent Gorontalo-born entrepreneur and member of Indonesia's House of Representatives, passed away in Jakarta on 10 July 2026. He is remembered for his extensive contributions to Gorontalo's development, including pioneering a tourism village concept for disaster-affected communities and revitalising landmarks like the Pakaya Tower. Gobel, a recipient of the Bintang Maha Putera Adi Pradana, was laid to rest at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta.

Profile: Arif Gobel, Rachmat Gobel's Son, Tipped to Inherit Family Business Empire

Following the death of prominent Indonesian industrialist Rachmat Gobel, attention has turned to his son, Mohammad Arif Rachmat Gobel, as the potential successor to lead the family's vast business conglomerate. Arif, a third-generation member of the Gobel family, already holds key directorships within the Gobel Group and its joint venture, Panasonic Gobel Indonesia. With an international education in Australia and Japan, he is currently focused on spearheading digital transformation and business development across the group's diverse portfolio.

Govt targets 37,000 leprosy case detections to speed up elimination

The Indonesian government aims to more than double leprosy case detection to 37,000 this year to break the chain of transmission, with Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin warning that undetected cases remain infectious. Community health centres will be incentivised with cash prizes for the most identifications, while regional leaders have signed a commitment to prioritise elimination and combat stigma. The initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto’s broader focus on health and education as foundations for national development.

Massive Earthquake Struck Southern Java 150 Years Ago, Destroying Temples and Killing Thousands

A historical report reveals that a devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake struck Yogyakarta on 10 June 1867, causing widespread destruction and thousands of fatalities. The tremor, which was felt as far as Semarang and Banyuwangi, destroyed iconic structures including Candi Sewu and the Tugu Golong Gilig monument. The disaster, caused by intra-plate deformation in the Indian Ocean, remains a stark reminder of Indonesia's seismic vulnerability, predating the deadly 2006 Yogyakarta quake.

The Legacy of Gobel and Panasonic in Building Indonesia's Electronics Industry, From Radio to TV

Rachmat Gobel, former Indonesian Trade Minister and successor of the Gobel Group, has passed away, leaving a profound legacy in national economic independence. The Gobel Group's journey began in 1954 with the pioneering manufacture of transistor radios and evolved through a historic joint venture with Panasonic. This partnership catalysed Indonesia's electronics industry, from producing televisions for the 1962 Asian Games to becoming a household name in home appliances and digital solutions.

Judge Reads Witness Testimony: Blueray Boss Gave Rp 21 Billion to Customs Director General

A Jakarta Corruption Court judge has read out witness testimony detailing how the head of Blueray Cargo allegedly paid Rp 21 billion to the Director General of Customs and Excise, Djaka Budhi Utama. The payments, made in Singapore dollars between July 2025 and January 2026, were part of a broader scheme involving several customs officials. The court also heard that unofficial meetings took place between customs officials and high-risk importers, funded by irregular external collections.

Judge Reveals Customs DG Djaka Budhi Utama Received Rp 21 Billion from Blueray Boss

A Jakarta Corruption Court judge has detailed how the Director General of Customs and Excise, Djaka Budhi Utama, allegedly received a total of Rp 21 billion in Singapore dollars from Blueray Cargo boss John Field between July 2025 and January 2026. The payments were made in monthly instalments of Rp 3 billion, using a code system to distribute funds to various customs officials. The court also heard that unofficial meetings between customs officials and high-risk importers, funded by illicit external collections, violated the ministry's code of ethics and created potential conflicts of interest.

PM Modi's Prambanan Visit a Momentum to Inherit Nusantara's Noble Values

The visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Prambanan Temple is being hailed as a historic moment to reflect on and inherit the noble values of the Nusantara civilisation. Anak Agung Gde Ngurah Ari Dwipayana, Chairman of the Puri Kauhan Ubud Foundation, stated that the visit strengthens centuries-old cultural and spiritual ties between Indonesia and India. He emphasised that the temple complex serves not only as an architectural masterpiece but also as a medium for character education and leadership, urging a collective revival of moral and cultural development alongside economic progress.

Hyundai Secures Three CSR Awards for Circular Economy and Vocational Support

PT Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (HMMI) has received three awards at the Bekasi Regency CSR Appreciation event, recognising its contributions to the environment, education, and the economy. The awards highlight the company's initiatives in plastic waste recycling, vocational training partnerships, and community economic empowerment. HMMI stated the recognition reinforces its commitment to creating shared value through its global 'Hyundai Continue' initiative.

Kremlin Says Putin Ready to Continue Dialogue with Trump

The Kremlin has indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin remains open to dialogue with US President Donald Trump, despite a scheduled phone call not yet taking place. Spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted Trump's busy schedule at the NATO summit in Ankara, while reiterating Moscow's view that Washington remains committed to facilitating peace. However, Peskov warned that further escalation, including potential US security guarantees for Ukraine, could prolong the conflict.

MBG Corruption Case: Jampidsus Says 47 Names Implicated

Investigators from the Attorney General's Office have expanded their probe into alleged corruption within the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, with the number of implicated parties rising to 47. Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah stated that the figure has grown from an initial 41 names mentioned by a former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency. He cautioned that being named in the investigation does not automatically lead to being named a suspect, as the actions may only constitute legal acts without criminal elements.

Febrie confirms special crimes case handling continues amid controversy

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah has assured the public that investigations and prosecutions are proceeding normally despite allegations linking him to a corruption case handled by the National Police. He emphasised that his office remains focused on high-priority cases involving natural resources, transfer pricing, and the free nutritious meal programme. The statement follows public speculation after police raids on a café and money changer in South Jakarta.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Returns to KPK Detention After Hospital Recovery

Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been returned to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detention centre after recovering from digestive surgery at the National Police Hospital. The KPK had temporarily suspended his detention on medical grounds. Prosecutors are now preparing to transfer his case file for trial over alleged corruption in the hajj quota allocation.

The Selangor International Business Summit Opens New Investment Opportunities in Bandung

The Selangor International Business Summit is creating new avenues for investment in Bandung, signalling strengthened economic ties between Malaysia and Indonesia. The event aims to facilitate business matching and explore collaborative ventures across key sectors. This initiative is expected to boost regional trade and attract foreign direct investment into West Java.

Meta Reportedly to Begin AI Chip Production in September 2026

Meta is reportedly preparing to commence production of its latest custom artificial intelligence chip in September 2026, aiming to reduce reliance on scarce graphics processing units. The chip, developed in partnership with Broadcom and manufactured by TSMC, has successfully passed initial testing. The move is part of Meta's broader strategy to bolster its AI infrastructure, with capital expenditure forecast to reach up to $145 billion in 2026.

Hotman Paris Highlights Alleged Santri Burning Case in NTB, Urges House Commission III to Summon Regional Police

Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has demanded the House of Representatives' Commission III summon the West Nusa Tenggara police over an alleged arson case involving three santri at an Islamic boarding school in Central Lombok. The incident, which reportedly occurred in late 2025, only gained widespread attention after going viral on social media, with allegations that certain officers obstructed the victims' families from seeking justice. One of the three victims has since died, while the other two continue to receive medical treatment.

PBNU Chair Quotes Quranic Verse in Response to Attorney General's Office-Polri Polemic

The chairman of Indonesia's largest Islamic organisation, Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), has urged the police and the Attorney General's Office to resolve their public dispute through proper legal channels, warning that institutional rivalry erodes public trust and state authority. Citing a Quranic verse against internal discord, he stressed that the two pillars of the criminal justice system must work in synergy rather than compete. He also called on the president to ensure all law enforcement agencies operate in harmony to prevent the perception of the state being defeated by institutional ego.

Mount Semeru erupts six times, ash column reaches 1.3 km

Mount Semeru in East Java experienced six eruptions on Friday, with the highest ash column observed reaching 1.3 kilometres above the summit. The volcano remains at Level III (Siaga) alert status, prompting authorities to warn residents against activities within a five-kilometre radius of the crater. Officials have also cautioned about potential lava flows and hot clouds along the Besuk Kobokan and other river valleys originating from the peak.

Polda Metro Jaya arrests suspect in Sunter car vandalism that went viral

Jakarta police have arrested a man identified as GV for allegedly vandalising a car in Sunter, North Jakarta, after footage of the incident spread widely on social media. The suspect was apprehended at a petrol station in Central Jakarta following an investigation that included CCTV analysis. He faces charges of property damage under the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of two years and six months.

Vice President Gibran Reviews Revitalisation Progress of Banyuwangi Market

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka inspected the completed revitalisation of Banyuwangi's main market, a project costing approximately Rp152 billion. The market has been redesigned as a green, semi-open tourist market featuring local Osing architecture. It is currently undergoing final maintenance before being handed over from the central government to the regional administration.

BNI Showcases Batik and Craft Partners at Puspa Nuswantara 2026

State-owned bank BNI is presenting three fostered small business partners at the Puspa Nuswantara 2026 exhibition in Jakarta to promote Indonesian batik and creative economy. The initiative features eco-friendly batik from Kampoeng Laweyan and aims to expand market access for local artisans. The bank views the exhibition as a platform for collaboration and strengthening the competitiveness of Indonesia's cultural heritage products.

Foreign Investors Net Sell IDR 290 Billion in First Session, These Shares Were Offloaded

Foreign investors recorded a net sell of IDR 290.36 billion in the first trading session on Friday, primarily targeting major banking stocks such as Bank Central Asia and Bank Rakyat Indonesia. The selling pressure occurred despite the Jakarta Composite Index closing the morning session slightly higher, supported by gains in commodity-related shares. Market participants are weighing global geopolitical tensions and IMF warnings against domestic policy developments, including the launch of the B50 biodiesel mandate.

Nine People Transported to Jakarta Following KPK Sting Operation on Sukoharjo Regent

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transported nine individuals to Jakarta following a sting operation in Sukoharjo Regency. The group, which includes Regent Etik Suryani, is being investigated for alleged extortion of local government officials. The suspects arrived in two batches and are undergoing intensive questioning at the KPK headquarters.

Cargo Boss Who Bribed Customs Officials with Rp 91.7 Billion Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison

An Indonesian court has sentenced three executives from Blueray Cargo to prison terms of up to two years for bribing customs officials with a total of Rp 91.7 billion. The panel of judges found the defendants guilty of corruption for making payments intended to expedite the clearance of imported goods, though the bribes paradoxically led to increased inspections. The sentences were lighter than prosecutors had demanded, with the judge noting the defendants' remorse and the role of customs officers in creating conditions that pressured the company.

Criminal Law Expert Praises Police for Investigating Three Corruption Cases, Supporting Prabowo's 'Asta Cita'

A prominent criminal law professor has commended the Indonesian National Police's anti-corruption unit for uncovering three major graft cases, describing the move as a direct implementation of President Prabowo Subianto's 'Asta Cita' mission. The investigations involve alleged corruption at state-owned enterprises PLN, ASABRI, and Krakatau Steel, with police recently seizing gold bars and billions of rupiah in foreign currency during raids. The police have confirmed the probes, which include money laundering charges, are receiving direct attention from the President.

Summoned by Prabowo, BP Batam Prepares Batam as a Global Maritime-Investment Gateway

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the Batam Free Trade Zone Authority (BP Batam) to accelerate the island's transformation into a new engine of national economic growth. Key directives include modernising ports and building an international port to serve as a national logistics hub integrated with high-tech manufacturing and data centres. The initiative aims to slash logistics costs, boost export competitiveness, and position Batam as a pilot project for national investment reform.

Jampidsus claims no understanding of link to PLN blackout corruption case

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, has stated he does not understand the alleged connection between himself and a police investigation into coal supply corruption. The case is linked to blackouts affecting several regions and involves procurement for state electricity firm PLN's coal-fired power plants. Febrie suggested police investigators should first conduct a comprehensive audit to determine if any unlawful acts occurred.

Indonesian Air Force Commits to Sugar Self-Sufficiency Through Sugarcane Programme

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is expanding its role in national food security by developing sugarcane cultivation to boost domestic sugar production. Air Chief Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono has been appointed Chairman of the Advisory Board for the Indonesian Sugarcane Farmers Association (APTRI), signalling a deeper military commitment to the sector. The initiative involves utilising idle airbase land across the country and partnering with local communities to strengthen both upstream cultivation and downstream processing.

Pramono confirms deaths of three clean water project workers

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has confirmed the deaths of three workers on a clean water piping project, clarifying the incident involved a subcontractor rather than the city-owned water company PAM Jaya. The victims included one Chinese national and two Indonesian citizens, who are suspected of having been poisoned by gas inside a culvert. The governor stated that all necessary measures to handle the victims have been carried out.

From Cascades to Yarra Code: A Series of Indonesia-Australia Collaborative Concerts

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Indonesian composer Vishnu Satyagraha presented 'Two Nations in Harmony', a concert celebrating a decade of cultural collaboration between Australia and Indonesia. The event featured a blend of classical and contemporary works, symbolising the strengthening bilateral relationship. Australian Ambassador Rod Brazier highlighted the role of such creative partnerships in uniting the two nations and supporting the creative industry.

Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah Addresses Resignation Rumours

Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has publicly responded to speculation about his potential resignation. He stated that he is still actively receiving instructions to complete case files, particularly those with impending detention deadlines. Febrie also addressed the legal proceedings of several corruption cases being handled by the National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) and the Metro Jaya Regional Police, which have been widely linked to his name.

Roy Suryo Files Pretrial Motion Challenging Article 32 of the ITE Law at South Jakarta District Court

Former minister Roy Suryo has filed a pretrial motion at the South Jakarta District Court contesting the validity of his criminal suspect designation under Article 32 of the Electronic Information and Transactions Law. His legal team argues that investigators lacked sufficient preliminary evidence to name him a suspect. The presiding judge has scheduled the next hearing for Monday to hear the response from the Metro Jaya Police.

Bahlil Threatens to Review Mining RKABs for Non-Compliance with B50

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has warned coal mining companies that their Work Plan and Budget (RKAB) will be reviewed if they refuse to use B50 biodiesel. The government has officially launched the mandatory B50 programme, which requires a 50 percent blend of biodiesel in diesel fuel, aiming to end Indonesia's reliance on diesel imports. President Prabowo Subianto stated the policy is a crucial step towards national energy independence.

Prabowo arrives in West Lombok to inaugurate five dams simultaneously

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated five national strategic dams across Indonesia in a ceremony at Meninting Dam, West Lombok. The dams are expected to bolster food security, increase agricultural productivity, and provide raw water supply. The projects also aim to support flood control and sustainable development.

OpenAI Officially Launches GPT-5.6 AI Model Series

OpenAI has officially released its latest artificial intelligence model series, GPT-5.6, following a delay requested by the US government over cybersecurity concerns. The new series includes three models—Sol, Terra, and Luna—offering varying balances of capability, speed, and cost-efficiency. The company claims the flagship Sol model sets new standards in coding, knowledge work, and science while incorporating its most robust safety systems to date.

RANS Allocates Rp161.5 Billion from IPO Proceeds to Stage 16 Concerts, Nagita Aims to Build World-Class Events

PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia Tbk has earmarked Rp161.5 billion, or 37.61 per cent of its initial public offering proceeds, to stage up to 16 concerts between the second half of 2026 and 2028. The company plans to feature both local and international artists, with events potentially held domestically and abroad. Director Nagita Slavina expressed ambitions to develop a sustainable, recurring festival concept akin to Coachella, aiming to create long-term value for the firm.

Legislator Hails B50 Biodiesel Launch as Milestone for National Energy Sovereignty

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XII has lauded the launch of the B50 biodiesel mandate as a pivotal moment for national energy sovereignty. The legislator emphasised that the policy demonstrates Indonesia's capability to leverage its natural resources to reduce fuel imports and benefit its citizens. President Prabowo Subianto officially inaugurated the programme, asserting it proves the nation can utilise its own wealth for the people's welfare.

Governor Agustiar Sabran Holds 25,000-Hectare Harvest, Affirms Commitment to Economic Development and Food Security

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran presided over a large-scale rice harvest spanning 25,817 hectares in Kapuas Regency, reinforcing the province's dedication to national food self-sufficiency. The event was held alongside the inauguration of the Kapuas Waterfront City, a new public space intended to stimulate the local economy. Military and police leadership attended, pledging institutional support for the government's strategic food security programmes.

Roy Suryo Files Second Pre-Trial Motion Challenging Suspect Status in Fake Diploma Case

Former Youth and Sports Minister Roy Suryo has filed a second pre-trial motion at the South Jakarta District Court, contesting the legality of his naming as a suspect under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law. His legal team argues the police's determination was procedurally flawed, lacking sufficient evidence as required by a Constitutional Court ruling. The hearing will resume next week, with this motion specifically targeting the validity of the suspect designation rather than prior arrest procedures.

Head of BKN Reveals: 128 Civil Servants Dismissed for Skipping Work

The Head of the National Civil Service Agency (BKN), Zudan Arif Fakrulloh, has disclosed that 128 state civil apparatus (ASN) have been dismissed for absenteeism. The dismissals occurred across 2025 and the current year of 2026, following administrative appeal reviews. Reasons cited for the unauthorised absences ranged from illness without a doctor's note to remote postings and personal economic difficulties.

Bahlil Says Pertamina is the Main Pillar for B50 Programme Success

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has stated that state-owned PT Pertamina is the key to the successful implementation of the B50 biodiesel mandate, as it processes around 80 per cent of the required FAME. The government has conducted comprehensive testing across six diesel engine sectors, with results indicating the B50 blend is safe and meets performance standards. The programme is projected to save approximately Rp 170 trillion in foreign exchange in 2026 and absorb around 2.1 million workers.

Jampidsus Denies Resignation Rumours: I Still Receive Orders to Handle Cases

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, has dismissed speculation about his resignation, confirming he remains active and is under instruction to expedite high-profile corruption cases. He also acknowledged that a house in Sentul raided by police, where cash and 74 kilograms of gold were reportedly found, is his personal residence. Adriansyah stated he is prepared to provide clarification regarding the seized assets through proper legal procedures.

Saudi Ambassador Cannot Confirm Multi-Storey Tents in Mina, Requires Fiqh Fatwa

Saudi Arabia's ambassador to Indonesia has stated he cannot confirm the feasibility of building multi-storey facilities in Mina to address hajj capacity issues, citing the need for a specific fiqh ruling. The statement follows an Indonesian government proposal to introduce tiered tents as a solution to the area's chronic overcrowding. The Indonesian Hajj and Umrah Minister had earlier highlighted that Mina's static land area necessitates innovative approaches to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.

Little Aresha Case Suspect Who Skipped Official Summons Now Detained

A new suspect in the Little Aresha Daycare case in Yogyakarta, who previously failed to attend a police summons citing ill health, has been officially detained following a second examination. The suspect is one of 14 newly named individuals, bringing the total number of caregivers charged to 21. Police are now completing case files for the latest group of suspects, which include caregivers, administrative staff, a household staff member, and a security guard, before transferring them to the prosecutor's office.

Dony Oskaria: Rachmat Gobel Was One of My Best Friends

Dony Oskaria, Chief Operating Officer of Danantara, has expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of NasDem Party politician Rachmat Gobel. Speaking at the family home in South Jakarta, Oskaria described Gobel as a kind, helpful, and selfless individual. He offered prayers for the deceased, acknowledging the loss as a profound shock to his circle of friends.

Police Arrest Man Who Vandalised Car in Sunter Within 24 Hours After Viral Video

Jakarta police have swiftly arrested a man identified as GV for vandalising a car in Sunter, North Jakarta, after a video of the incident went viral. The suspect was apprehended without resistance at a petrol station in Central Jakarta less than 24 hours after the event. GV reportedly admitted to acting out of anger because he felt the victim had not given way to him, causing an estimated loss of Rp50 million.

Rachmat Gobel to Be Buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery, Not Gorontalo

The late Indonesian legislator and former trade minister Rachmat Gobel will be interred at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta, contrary to earlier plans for burial in Gorontalo. Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono confirmed the change, highlighting Gobel's significant contributions to social and humanitarian causes. Gobel, remembered for his philanthropy, recently donated IDR 1 billion to the Syarikat Islam organisation.

Coordinating Minister: PNM Mekaar a Best Practice for Grassroots Women's Empowerment

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar has lauded the PNM Mekaar programme as a successful model for empowering women at the grassroots level, serving 23.3 million underprivileged female clients nationwide. The programme combines access to unsecured business financing with intensive mentoring from over 61,000 facilitators, fostering discipline and mutual cooperation. The minister expressed hope that this model, which reaches the unbankable segment of society, can be replicated across other regions and institutions.

Pramono Anung Remembers Rachmat Gobel: He Was a Friend to Everyone

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has paid tribute to the late NasDem Party politician and industrialist Rachmat Gobel, describing him as a dedicated friend who never discriminated based on background. Gobel, who passed away at the age of 63, was remembered for his significant role in strengthening Indonesia-Japan relations during Pramono's tenure as Cabinet Secretary. The successor to the Gobel Group is scheduled to be buried at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery.

RANS to Utilise Rp161.5 Billion IPO Proceeds for 16 Concerts

PT RANS Entertainment Indonesia Tbk plans to allocate the largest portion of its IPO funds, approximately Rp161.5 billion, to organise up to 16 concerts featuring local and international artists from 2026 to 2028. The company also intends to use the remaining proceeds to acquire a majority stake in a cosmetics firm and develop an AI-based technology venture. RANS aims to build sustainable events that provide long-term value to shareholders.

Bahlil Pays Tribute: Rachmat Gobel Was My Senior in Business

Energy Minister and Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia has expressed his condolences following the death of NasDem Party politician Rachmat Gobel. Bahlil remembered Gobel as a senior figure in the business world and a consistent, hard-working leader who supported his juniors. He recalled Gobel being the first minister to receive him when he became chairman of the young entrepreneurs' association HIPMI in 2015.

Syngenta Indonesia and KTNA Strengthen Farmer Empowerment

Syngenta Indonesia and the Andalan Farmers and Fishermen Contact (KTNA) have formalised a partnership to enhance farmer capacity through training and technology transfer. The collaboration, signed during the National KTNA Week in Gorontalo, focuses on boosting agricultural productivity, profitability, and sustainability. It includes field mentoring, access to advanced seed technology, and responsible crop protection practices.

PDIP and Sukoharjo Regency Government Respond to KPK Sting Operation on Regent Etik Suryani

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has pledged to respect the legal process following the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) arrest of Sukoharjo Regent Etik Suryani, while urging fairness and warning against political criminalisation. The Sukoharjo Regency Government stated it is awaiting official information from the KPK and has urged civil servants to continue working calmly. This marks the fourth sting operation targeting a regional head in quick succession.

Police Investigate Fatal Mob Attack on Street Musician in East Jakarta

Police in East Jakarta are investigating the mob killing of a street musician at a public housing complex in Jatinegara. The victim and another man were allegedly attacked by residents after a dispute involving a sharp weapon. One suspect died in hospital following the incident, and police are working to identify all perpetrators.

Yuniarti Experiences Real Benefits of JKN Programme During Gerd Treatment

Yuniarti Mantuke, a participant in the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme, has shared her positive experience of receiving hospital treatment for acid reflux and gerd without financial worry. The patient, registered under the contribution assistance (PBI) segment, was referred from a community health centre to Luwuk Regional Hospital. She expressed gratitude for the professional care and financial protection provided by BPJS Kesehatan.

Surya Paloh: Rachmat Gobel's Passing Was So Sudden

NasDem Party Chairman Surya Paloh has expressed his condolences following the sudden death of prominent businessman and party politician Rachmat Gobel. Gobel, who previously served as Minister of Trade and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (DPR), passed away at the age of 63 in Jakarta. Paloh remembered him as a hardworking figure and a successful entrepreneur who was still actively performing his duties as a lawmaker.

Former PPATK Chief Backs Police Probe into Three Major Corruption Cases, Sees Clear Indications of Money Laundering

Yunus Husein, the former head of Indonesia's Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), has voiced strong support for the National Police's investigation into three high-profile corruption cases involving state-owned enterprises PLN, ASABRI, and Krakatau Steel. He stated that the discovery of vast amounts of cash and gold bullion clearly indicates money laundering activities. The investigation, which has drawn direct attention from President Prabowo Subianto, includes raids on a money changer and a cafe in South Jakarta.

Israeli Intelligence Warns US of Iranian Plot to Assassinate Donald Trump

Israeli intelligence has reportedly provided the United States with specific warnings about a new Iranian plot to assassinate President Donald Trump. The alert comes amid heightened tensions following recent US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump has acknowledged the threats, stating his name is on their target list, while security measures around him have been visibly intensified.

National Police Chief Advises 282 New Officers to Uphold Integrity and Honour

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has urged 282 newly graduated officers to maintain their integrity and protect the institution's reputation. The cadets completed their three-year training at the Police Academy in Semarang. The message was delivered by Deputy Chief Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo during the closing ceremony for the 58th cadet cohort.

Bridgestone's Airless Tyres Deployed on Autonomous Vehicles in Japan

Bridgestone's airless tyre technology has entered its first regular commercial service, being fitted to autonomous vehicles transporting elderly residents in Higashiomi, Japan. The application, while limited to low-speed vehicles, marks a significant milestone for the AirFree concept which has been in development since 2008. The company is also exploring a business model that integrates tyre production with recycling services.

Airlangga Confident Indonesian Economy Will Rebound in Second Half of 2026

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto expressed optimism that Indonesia's economy will strengthen again in the third and fourth quarters of 2026, despite recent declines in consumer confidence and a contraction in the manufacturing sector. The Consumer Confidence Index fell to 117.8 in June, while the Manufacturing PMI contracted to 46.9. Economist Didik J. Rachbini warned the PMI figure signals the industrial sector is in a 'red danger zone' and requires consistent policy to boost long-term competitiveness.

Jampidsus Ensures Corruption Case Handling at the Round Building Continues Normally

The Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus), Febrie Adriansyah, has confirmed that all special crime case handling is proceeding normally amid circulating information. He emphasised that investigations, prosecutions, and evidence executions are being carried out professionally and in accordance with standard operating procedures. The public is urged to respond to information wisely and avoid drawing premature conclusions.

Drought Hits Ciseeng, Bogor, Leaving 1,570 Residents Struggling for Clean Water

A prolonged dry spell has caused a severe water shortage in Cibeteung Muara Village, Bogor Regency, affecting 1,570 residents. The local disaster mitigation agency has distributed 5,000 litres of clean water as a temporary measure. Officials report that water sources and wells have dried up due to weeks without rain.

Megawati Rekindles Historical Ties with Indonesians in Timor-Leste

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri held a gathering with the Indonesian diaspora in Dili, sharing memories of her friendship with Timorese leaders and listening to emotional testimonies from former PDI cadres. She announced plans to establish a PDI-P branch in Timor-Leste and pledged to send an expert to explore investment potential in Atauro Island.

Career Stagnant? UNM's Master's Programme Becomes a Path to Level Up Professionally in the AI Era

Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) has launched a postgraduate programme aimed at professionals seeking to overcome career stagnation and enhance their competitiveness in the age of artificial intelligence. The digital business campus argues that a bachelor's degree and work experience are no longer sufficient for strategic roles, positioning further study as a long-term investment. The curriculum is designed to combine theory with real case studies, supported by academics and industry practitioners, to develop leadership and digital transformation skills.

Four Regional Heads Caught in KPK Sting Operations in the Past Month

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has apprehended four regional heads in a series of sting operations since early June. The arrests involve allegations ranging from bribery and gratuity to extortion, highlighting a significant crackdown on local government corruption. The cases span multiple provinces, including South Sumatra, Riau, North Sumatra, and Central Java.

Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Denies Resignation Amid Coal Corruption Probe

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has confirmed he remains in his post and is actively working, dismissing speculation about his resignation. His statement comes as the National Police investigate alleged corruption in a coal procurement case involving state electricity firm PLN. Febrie emphasised his focus on completing priority cases and supporting President Prabowo Subianto's anti-corruption directives.

New SIM Card Registration Fee Set at Rp3,000, Operators Push for Below Rp1,000

Indonesian mobile operators are urging the government to lower the newly implemented biometric registration fee for SIM cards to below Rp1,000 per transaction. The current face recognition verification fee, paid by operators to the civil registry, stands at Rp3,000, while the association claims the actual service cost is significantly lower. The new biometric system became mandatory for all new subscribers starting 1 July 2026.

Indonesian Embassy Hosts Dinner in Dili, Uniting Megawati with Hundreds of Citizens and Sympathisers

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri attended a gathering at the Indonesian Embassy in Dili, where she announced plans to establish a PDI-P overseas branch in Timor-Leste and send an expert to study economic potential on Atauro Island. The event also featured emotional testimonies from former East Timor PDI-P officials who recounted their struggles and loyalty during the turbulent 1999 referendum period. Megawati emphasised national pride and the enduring bonds between Indonesia and Timor-Leste.

Indonesia's Fintech Industry Enters Maturation Phase, Five Key Trends Identified

The Indonesian fintech industry is shifting from rapid growth to strengthening business fundamentals, according to the Indonesian Fintech Association (AFTECH). An annual survey reveals five key transitions, including a focus on regulatory certainty, digital trust, and sustainable impact. The findings highlight that low financial literacy remains a major barrier to expanding financial inclusion.

New Toll Road Construction in 2027 Targeted at Only 12.27 Km, What's Happening?

Indonesia's Directorate General of Highways has set a modest target of building just 12.27 kilometres of new toll roads in 2027 due to budget constraints. The indicative budget ceiling of Rp29.24 trillion is likely to be prioritised for preserving existing road conditions rather than initiating new projects. The House of Representatives' Commission V has specifically requested that the allocation focus on maintenance over new construction.

Typhoon Bavi Threatens China and Taiwan After Maysak Claims Lives

Typhoon Bavi, a massive storm with winds nearing 200 km/h, is bearing down on China and Taiwan, threatening to be the most destructive weather event in East Asia for years. The storm follows closely on the heels of Typhoon Maysak, which killed at least 39 people in southern China and triggered a secondary ecological crisis. Scientists link the increasing intensity of such storms to climate change and warming ocean temperatures.

Raffi Ahmad Reveals Reason for Haji Isam's Presence at RANS IPO

Raffi Ahmad has disclosed that South Kalimantan coal tycoon Haji Isam attended the initial public offering of PT Rans Entertainmen Indonesia Tbk. as a mentor and supporter. The entertainment company's shares surged from the offer price of Rp 170 to Rp 228 on its first day of trading on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The listing event was also attended by prominent business figures including Garibaldi 'Boy' Thohir and Anindya Bakrie.

Megawati Soekarnoputri Visits Seroja Heroes Cemetery in Dili

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri visited the Seroja Heroes Cemetery in Dili, Timor-Leste, to pay respects to fallen soldiers. The visit is part of a trip marking 24 years since she attended the restoration of Timor-Leste's independence. During her stay, she was awarded the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste for her role in strengthening bilateral relations.

Minister: Rachmat Gobel to Be Buried at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery After Friday Prayers

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono has confirmed that the late legislator Rachmat Gobel will be interred at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta, rather than in Gorontalo. The funeral is scheduled to take place following Friday prayers. The minister highlighted Gobel's dedication as a public representative and his significant philanthropic contributions, including a recent Rp 1 billion donation to the Syarikat Islam organisation.

Students Challenge Party Chairmen Holding Dual Public Offices at Constitutional Court

Two law students have petitioned the Constitutional Court to review the Political Party Law, arguing it fails to prohibit party chairmen from concurrently holding public office. They contend this legal gap creates potential conflicts of interest and fosters political oligarchy. The petitioners specifically cited President Prabowo Subianto and several ministers who also lead political parties.

Iran Fires 10 Ballistic Missiles at Jordan, Threatens Further Strikes on US Bases

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it launched 10 ballistic missiles at a US military command centre in West Asia and Jordan's Al-Azraq Air Base, asserting both facilities were destroyed. Jordan stated its air defences intercepted most of the projectiles, while the IRGC warned that any further US aggression would invite heavy attacks on other American bases in the region. The escalation follows recent US strikes on Iranian military targets and raises concerns over the stability of the strategic Strait of Hormuz and global energy markets.

Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie: Prosecutor's Office Supports MBG-Kopdes Merah Putih Programme

Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has affirmed the Attorney General's Office's commitment to supporting the success of key government programmes, including the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (Kopdes) initiatives. He stated that the prosecution service will ensure these national priority programmes run effectively, accountably, and deliver benefits to the public. Febrie also addressed ongoing corruption investigations being handled by the police.

Government Studies Celukan Bawang Port as New Bali-Java Ferry Route

The Indonesian government is assessing Celukan Bawang Port in Buleleng, Bali, as an alternative ferry crossing to Java to alleviate severe congestion at the Gilimanuk-Ketapang route. Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi stated the port has suitable characteristics for roll-on/roll-off operations and available land for a buffer zone. State-owned port operator Pelindo has been instructed to prepare a technical study to support the development, aiming to enhance both public transport and logistics flow during peak travel seasons.

Jakarta Governor Orders Mayors to Intensify Community Outreach to Curb Street Brawls

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed all city mayors to enhance community engagement and build more public facilities to prevent street brawls involving students. The directive follows a recent fatal brawl in South Jakarta, where police have charged multiple suspects under the new Criminal Code with offences including group assault and carrying sharp weapons. Pramono emphasized that a gradual, persuasive approach is needed to reduce the persistent violence.

Home Searched Over Three Corruption Cases, Jampidsus Febrie Assures MBG Case Proceeds

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, has confirmed that investigations into several high-profile cases, including the alleged corruption in the free nutritious meal programme (MBG), will continue unimpeded. His statement follows a search of his private residence in Sentul by police investigators in connection with three separate corruption cases. Febrie emphasised that the legal proceedings remain on track and called on the public to allow the process to unfold according to the law.

Minister Nusron Targets Certification of 14,000 Waqf Land Parcels in South Sulawesi Within a Year

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning Nusron Wahid aims to certify 14,000 waqf land parcels in South Sulawesi within one year, as only 24 percent are currently certified. The ministry has signed an MoU with 28 universities to deploy students in thematic community service programmes (KKN Tematik) to accelerate land registration. This initiative replicates a successful model from Pekalongan, with a national target to certify all waqf land by 2028.

Learning from Gobel: Embracing This Life Philosophy Can Lead to Wealth and Success

The late national entrepreneur Thayeb Mohammad Gobel's 'Banana Tree Philosophy', which views a company as a benefactor to society rather than just a profit engine, remains a guiding principle for the Panasonic brand in Indonesia. This philosophy, which emphasises that every part of a business should provide value to the community, was instrumental in building the Gobel family's electronics empire. It was a principle he shared with Panasonic founder Konosuke Matsushita and even expressed to President Sukarno, stating his goal was to ensure the president's speeches reached remote villages.

BPOM Strengthens Strategic Cooperation on Indonesia-India Food and Drug Security

Indonesia and India have deepened their strategic partnership in health sector regulation, marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on medical products regulation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit. The agreement, witnessed by BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar, aims to enhance regulatory systems, ensure product safety, and boost Indonesia's pharmaceutical self-reliance. The collaboration focuses on knowledge transfer, capacity building, and moving Indonesia from a mere market to a key player in the global health innovation ecosystem.

China Prepares Early Warning System for Hazardous Asteroids to Anticipate Cosmic Threats

China's National Space Administration has announced plans for an integrated asteroid early warning network combining ground-based and orbital telescopes. The system aims to eliminate monitoring blind spots, particularly for objects approaching from the direction of the sun, and will study deflection methods including kinetic impact and gravity tractors. The initiative marks a significant step in China's planetary defence strategy and its contribution to global space safety collaboration.

President Prabowo Inaugurates 5 Strategic Dams in NTB, Aceh, Central Java, and Bali

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated five strategic dams across Indonesia, including the Meninting Dam in West Nusa Tenggara, as part of a major push to bolster national water security. The simultaneous inauguration of dams in Aceh, Central Java, and Bali underscores the government's commitment to strengthening infrastructure for food resilience, raw water supply, and flood control. The projects are expected to significantly enhance agricultural productivity and support sustainable development.

Zulhas: Rachmat Gobel Was a Good Man with Many Works

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has paid tribute to the late Rachmat Gobel, describing him as a good man who left behind many great works. Gobel, a national entrepreneur and member of the House of Representatives, previously served as Minister of Trade under President Joko Widodo. Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti also remembered him as a humble person who always offered guidance to the younger generation.

Atmosphere at the Late Rachmat Gobel's Funeral Home Ahead of Burial

The funeral home of the late Rachmat Gobel in South Jakarta was crowded with mourners and officials on Friday ahead of his burial. Traffic in the Tebet area became congested as floral tributes and dignitaries continued to arrive before Friday prayers. The body is scheduled to be interred at the Kalibata National Main Heroes' Cemetery following the prayers.

Iranian Military Facilities in Bushehr and Konarak Attacked, Netanyahu Says War Is Not Over

Iran has reported attacks on military facilities in Bushehr and Konarak amid renewed tensions with the United States and Israel. While a US official denied American military involvement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that operations against Iran are not finished. The incidents occurred near a nuclear power plant and a strategic naval zone, with casualty figures still being assessed.

Textile Workers Turn the Tables: From Redundancy Pay to Entrepreneurship

Mass redundancies in Indonesia's textile and garment sector have unexpectedly spurred a wave of new small-scale entrepreneurs. Many former factory workers are using their severance pay to start their own convection businesses, creating jobs rather than joining the unemployment queue. This shift highlights the resilience of the domestic market and the potential for industrial restructuring to foster micro and small enterprises.

Pulau Kelapa administration encourages residents to strengthen food security

The Pulau Kelapa sub-district in the Seribu Islands is promoting local food resilience by encouraging residents to cultivate crops. A recent chilli harvest at a public space yielded 1.4 kilograms, demonstrating the economic and nutritional benefits of utilising available land. The initiative is part of a broader national effort to bolster food security starting at the household level.

Education Ministry Upskills Vocational Teachers to Prepare Superior Human Resources

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is conducting an upskilling and reskilling programme for 177 vocational arts and culture teachers in Yogyakarta. The initiative combines online learning, in-depth material, and industry internships to align teaching with workplace culture. The programme aims to strengthen project-based learning and teaching factories to generate sustainable operational income for schools.

NasDem's Sahroni Shocked by Rachmat Gobel's Sudden Passing from Heart Attack

NasDem Party Treasurer Ahmad Sahroni expressed shock at the sudden death of his colleague and friend, Rachmat Gobel, who passed away from a heart attack. Sahroni remembered Gobel as a pioneering electronics industrialist turned politician who served as Minister of Trade and Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives. He noted that Gobel was a nationalist philanthropist whose contributions to politics and the economy, particularly in Gorontalo, were immense and deeply inspiring to the party's young cadres.

Amid Resignation Rumours, Jampidsus Claims Still Receiving Work Orders

Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah has denied rumours of his resignation, stating he is still receiving directives to expedite case files. His name has been linked to several corruption and money laundering investigations being handled by the police. Febrie emphasised his current focus is on prioritising cases of public interest for immediate trial.

Sukoharjo Regent Caught in Sting, KPK Seizes Precious Metals and Billions in Cash

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Regent of Sukoharjo, Etik Suryani, in a sting operation, seizing precious metals and billions of rupiah in cash and foreign currency. The anti-graft body suspects the assets are linked to an extortion scheme carried out by the regent. This arrest marks the latest in a series of recent sting operations targeting regional heads across the country.

Airlangga optimistic economy will strengthen again in second half of 2026

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto expressed confidence that Indonesia's economy will rebound in the third and fourth quarters of 2026, despite recent dips in consumer confidence and a contraction in the manufacturing PMI. He noted that the consumer confidence index remains in a safe zone above 100, attributing the slight decline to a post-Lebaran normalisation. Meanwhile, an economist warned that the manufacturing PMI's fall to 46.9 signals a sector in distress, requiring consistent policies to boost long-term competitiveness.

Wilmar Boosts Fire Prevention Readiness Ahead of Dry Season

PT Mustika Sembuluh, part of the Wilmar Group, is ramping up forest and land fire prevention measures as the dry season approaches. The company is conducting training and alert drills involving local government, police, military, and community fire-awareness groups. The initiative underscores a commitment to collaborative, proactive strategies to protect communities and the environment.

Coordinating Minister: PNM's Empowerment Model Deserves Nationwide Expansion

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar has praised PT Permodalan Nasional Madani's (PNM) 27-year track record in fostering economic self-reliance, advocating for its empowerment model to be replicated across Indonesia. He stressed the government's shift from charitable aid to sustainable empowerment, aiming to create productive economic actors. The minister also highlighted the need for Indonesia to build domestic economic resilience amid global market uncertainties.

Freeport Donates 11 Km of Pipes to Expand Clean Water Access in Mimika

PT Freeport Indonesia has donated 11 kilometres of HDPE pipes to the Mimika Regency Government to accelerate the expansion of the local clean water distribution network. The collaboration aims to increase the number of household connections to 50,000 by the end of 2027, building upon an existing water treatment facility built with a Rp150 billion investment. The initiative is part of a long-standing partnership to improve public health and quality of life in the region.

Bali Police probe Russian national's kidnapping, crypto theft

Bali Police are investigating the kidnapping and assault of a Russian national who was held captive for nearly 30 hours and forced to surrender access to a cryptocurrency account. The victim was abducted by masked perpetrators in Pecatu, beaten, and had mobile phones stolen before being released near a hospital. Authorities are pursuing the suspects and assessing the financial losses from the stolen digital assets.

Why the Copyright Law Revision Is Urged to Go Beyond Royalty Arrangements

Indonesian press organisations have welcomed the government's plan to revise the Copyright Law but stress it must build a sustainable and independent media ecosystem, not just regulate royalties. They argue that digital disruption and the uncompensated use of journalistic work by global platforms and AI developers require a comprehensive regulatory framework. Proposals include a journalism trust fund, tax incentives, and a transparent collective management body for royalty distribution.

Shocking Facts! 74 kg of Gold Seized in Sentul Weighs More Than the Gold Atop Monas

Investigators from the Indonesian National Police's Corruption Eradication Task Force seized 74 kilograms of gold bullion from a house in Sentul, Bogor, along with large sums of foreign currency. The total weight of the seized gold surpasses the 72 kilograms of gold that adorns the National Monument (Monas) flame. The discovery was made during a search related to an alleged corruption case, and authorities also secured documents and mobile phones as evidence.

Roy Suryo Asks Judge to Declare Polda Metro Investigation Unlawful

KMRT Roy Suryo Notodiprojo, a suspect in a case involving allegations of a fake diploma against Indonesia's 7th President Joko Widodo, has filed a pretrial motion challenging the legality of the police investigation. His legal team argues the investigation violated a Constitutional Court ruling and the Criminal Procedure Code, rendering it invalid. This follows a recent partial victory where the court deemed his prior arrest and detention procedurally flawed.

House Deputy Speaker Saan Mustopa Remembers Rachmat Gobel as a Dedicated Figure

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), Saan Mustopa, has paid tribute to the late Rachmat Gobel, describing him as a highly dedicated individual. Gobel, a NasDem Party politician and former Deputy Speaker, passed away in Jakarta in the early hours of Friday. The House leadership expressed deep condolences and prayed for strength for the bereaved family.

UNM Master's Student Creates Blockchain-Based Website to Boost Transparency in Waqf Management

A master's student at Universitas Nusa Mandiri has developed a blockchain-based website aimed at enhancing transparency, security, and accountability in Indonesia's waqf management. The innovation addresses challenges in recording and public trust, with potential for integration into the Ministry of Religious Affairs' digital systems. The university highlights the project as a successful application of advanced technology to solve real-world social problems.

Former Minister Yaqut Returns to KPK Detention After Medical Leave Ends

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been returned to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detention centre after being declared fit by doctors. He had been receiving treatment at a police hospital for digestive issues, including surgery. Yaqut is a suspect in an alleged corruption case involving the hajj quota, alongside three other individuals.

Sahroni Remembers Rachmat Gobel: A Conglomerate Who Fought for the People

House of Representatives member Ahmad Sahroni has paid tribute to the late Rachmat Gobel, who passed away on Friday at the age of 63. Sahroni remembered Gobel as a pioneering electronics industrialist and a dedicated politician who used his position to advance his home region of Gorontalo. He highlighted Gobel's humility, his service as Trade Minister and Deputy Speaker, and his philanthropic efforts to create jobs and drive development.

Rachmat Gobel's Political Journey: Building a Cadre Through Education and Hard Work

This article reflects on Rachmat Gobel's transition from a prominent businessman to a dedicated politician, emphasising his belief in structured political education. It details his initiative in Gorontalo to strengthen the NasDem Party's structure through a project-based learning programme for cadres. The piece frames his political work as a spiritual journey, driven by the values of hard work and continuous learning instilled by his father.

Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Clarifies Coal Corruption Allegations and Sentul Money Find

Indonesia's Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, has publicly denied any connection to alleged corruption in coal procurement at state electricity firm PLN, which has been linked to power outages in Sumatra. He also addressed rumours regarding a business in Cipete and the discovery of money at a property in Sentul, asserting the funds have a legitimate owner. Febrie called for a comprehensive audit of the coal supply chain to determine if any unlawful acts occurred.

Why Gulf Nations Stand to Lose the Most in a US-Iran War

Gulf nations face significant economic and security risks as tensions between the United States and Iran escalate into direct military strikes. The presence of US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar makes them potential targets for Iranian retaliation, threatening their civilian populations and economic hubs. The conflict also jeopardises vital oil export routes and the region's carefully balanced diplomatic efforts to avoid being drawn into a wider war.

Preparations Underway for Rachmat Gobel's Funeral at Kalibata Heroes Cemetery

Preparations are underway at the Kalibata Heroes Cemetery in Jakarta for the burial of senior politician and businessman Rachmat Gobel, who passed away on Friday at the age of 63. The NasDem Party politician, a former trade minister and deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, will be laid to rest following midday prayers. Gobel is remembered by colleagues as a dedicated economist and a senior figure who contributed significantly to both business and politics.