Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 July 2026

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Komodo National Park Welcomes 200,000 Tourists in Six Months, Slumps in January

Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara recorded over 200,000 visitors in the first half of 2026, a significant increase from the same period last year. Foreign tourists dominated the arrivals, though numbers were severely depressed in January due to a temporary closure following a fatal boat sinking. Visitor numbers rebounded sharply from February onwards, peaking at nearly 50,000 in June.

National Samsat unveils five innovations to boost vehicle tax compliance

The Directorate General of Regional Finance has introduced five national innovations to improve vehicle tax services and encourage public compliance. These include digitalisation, drive-thru services, mobile units, e-Samsat, and door-to-door services. The initiative aims to make tax payments more accessible, with some regions already implementing unique programmes such as involving family welfare cadres for home visits and offering night-time services.

J-36 Could Become China's Most Dangerous Fighter Jet, How About the US?

China's J-36 stealth aircraft prototype, featuring a tailless, three-engine design, is undergoing iterative testing that suggests significant aerodynamic and stealth refinements. While still in early development and lacking official specifications, analysts believe the platform could offer an unprecedented combination of stealth, large internal payload capacity, and long range. If its projected capabilities are realised, the J-36 may become China's most strategically consequential air asset in the Indo-Pacific region.

Finance Minister: 2025 State Budget Runs Efficiently, Effectively, and Accountably

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the implementation of the 2025 State Budget (APBN) was efficient, effective, and accountable, securing an unqualified opinion (WTP) from the Supreme Audit Agency for the tenth consecutive year. Despite global geopolitical tensions and trade fragmentation, Indonesia's economy grew by 5.11 percent in 2025, supported by resilient household consumption and investment. The government also deployed a Rp110.7 trillion stimulus package throughout the year to maintain purchasing power and support the real sector.

OJK Builds System to Block Online Gambling Perpetrators from Accessing Banking Services

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is collaborating with the banking sector to develop a system that prevents individuals involved in online gambling from utilising banking services. As of May 2026, the initiative has already led banks to reject business relationship applications from 2.8 million prospective customers and terminate relationships with 51,200 existing customers linked to online gambling.

Bogor City Government to Aid 2,000 Underprivileged Private School Students

The Bogor City Government will provide educational assistance of Rp3 million per year to 2,000 underprivileged students attending private schools starting in 2026. The initiative, costing an estimated Rp6 billion annually, aims to ensure equitable access to quality education. The city is also integrating school facilities with public sports grounds to optimise community assets.

West Java Government Integrates 'Maung' Schools with Industry to Prepare Future Leaders

The West Java provincial government has signed a memorandum of understanding with 26 businesses to align vocational school curricula with industry needs, aiming to equip students for the upcoming demographic bonus. The initiative involves 13 'Sekolah Manusia Unggul' (Maung) vocational schools and seeks to turn industrial partners into 'living labs' for students. Separately, over 1,100 university students have been deployed to teach in rural schools under a programme addressing teacher shortages.

Minister Arifah Condemns Bomb Threat at SDN Srengseng, Says It Violates Children's Right to Safety

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has strongly condemned a bomb threat targeting SDN Srengseng in Jakarta, calling it an intolerable act that harms children's sense of security. The threat occurred during the school's orientation period for new students, which the minister said should be a time for building confidence and happiness. She praised the police for their swift action in apprehending a suspect and stressed that schools must remain safe havens for children to learn and grow.

China Rejects US and European Claims on South China Sea

Beijing has firmly rejected a joint statement by the United States, the Philippines, and several European nations marking the 10th anniversary of the South China Sea arbitration ruling. China's Foreign Ministry denounced the statement as a distortion of facts and a political manoeuvre, reiterating that the 2016 ruling is illegal and void. The ministry urged the European Union to act prudently and avoid actions that could harm EU-China relations.

Police Officer in Bone Beaten While Breaking Up Brawl, Six Suspects Arrested

A police officer in Bone Regency, South Sulawesi, was assaulted by a group of men while attempting to mediate a dispute. Six suspects have been arrested following the incident, which left the officer with multiple bruises. Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the attack.

Cooperatives Ministry: Sugar from cane farmers' cooperatives can be marketed via KDKMP

Indonesia's Cooperatives Ministry has announced that sugar produced by sugarcane farmer cooperatives can be distributed through the Village/Sub-district Merah Putih Cooperative (KDKMP) outlets. The initiative aims to strengthen the national sugar industry ecosystem and provide market certainty for farmers. The government is also targeting future self-sufficiency in all sugar needs, including for bioethanol production.

When Norway Closes the Door on ChatGPT: Learning from the Courage to Resist the Tide of Educational Digitalisation

Norway is set to impose strict restrictions on generative AI like ChatGPT in primary schools from August 2026, while older students may only use it under teacher supervision. The policy, which also reinstates physical textbooks, stems from concerns that AI dependency erodes fundamental reading, writing, and arithmetic skills. The move offers a critical counterpoint to the global rush to integrate AI into classrooms, emphasising that the process of thinking is as vital as the final academic output.

Golkar Politician Defends Bahlil Amid PLN Coal Controversy: Don't Politicise It

Golkar Party politician Ade Ginanjar Anggora has defended Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia against calls for an investigation into coal procurement for state utility PLN. He urged that the issue be addressed objectively based on facts and data, warning against politicising strategic energy matters. Ade also expressed support for the ministry's efforts to improve transparency and accountability in coal mining governance.

Central Java Deputy Governor Plants Maize with Santri in Pesantren Empowerment Drive

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen joined students from the Santri Gayeng Nusantara group to plant maize on previously unused land in Banjarnegara. The initiative, a collaboration between the provincial government and a state-owned enterprise, aims to provide economic opportunities for local communities. It also serves as an educational programme to teach Islamic boarding school students practical agricultural skills.

Badung Abandons Tapping Box, Shifts to Web Service to Prevent Regional Revenue Leakage

The Badung Regency has officially replaced its cash register monitoring system, known as the tapping box, with a fully integrated web service to curb tax data manipulation and plug leaks in locally generated revenue. The new system allows the government to directly connect with taxpayer transaction systems, and will be strengthened by planned data-sharing agreements with global platforms like Airbnb and Traveloka. Officials stated the technology aims to foster taxpayer compliance, though they emphasised that the integrity of field officers remains critical to the policy's success.

National Kebaya Day: Women urged to preserve cultural heritage

Lana T. Koentjoro, Chairwoman of Perempuan Indonesia Maju, has called on women's organisations to strengthen collective efforts in preserving the kebaya as a national identity. The appeal was made during preparations for the third National Kebaya Day, which follows the garment's UNESCO intangible cultural heritage recognition in December 2024. The annual event aims to broaden public awareness of the kebaya's historical and philosophical significance.

China Urges Respect for Rights of Nations Around Strait of Hormuz

China has called for the rights and interests of countries bordering the Strait of Hormuz to be respected to restore normal shipping. The appeal follows renewed military conflict in the region, with Iran's Revolutionary Guards announcing a closure of the strait and the United States imposing a maritime blockade. Beijing expressed deep concern and urged all parties to exercise restraint and uphold a hard-won ceasefire.

Brebes Police Educate New Students at SMAN 1 Banjarharjo to Prevent Juvenile Delinquency

The Brebes Police, through the Banjarharjo Sector Police, conducted a guidance and counselling session for new students at SMAN 1 Banjarharjo during their school orientation programme. The initiative aimed to instil legal awareness and prevent juvenile delinquency, including brawling, bullying, and drug abuse. Officers also provided education on traffic safety regulations.

Magnitude 6.1 Earthquake Shakes Tahuna, Sangihe Islands, North Sulawesi

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck northwest of Tahuna in the Sangihe Islands, North Sulawesi, on Tuesday evening. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed the tremor posed no tsunami threat. There have been no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

Palembang to Hold Two Major Events Simultaneously: Kebaya Parade and Anti-LGBT Zikir

The Palembang city government is set to host two large-scale events concurrently on Sunday, 19 July. A National Kebaya Parade aiming to break a MURI record will take place on the Ampera Bridge, while a mass Zikir Akbar focused on LGBT prevention education will be held at the Air Mancur Roundabout. Officials state the dual events represent an agreement between the local government, community leaders, and clerics to promote cultural heritage and strengthen religious outreach.

MPR RI Urges Students to Strengthen Digital Literacy to Counter Hoaxes

Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) has called on Generation Z students to enhance their digital literacy and critical thinking to combat hoaxes and AI misuse. The initiative, presented during a school orientation programme, frames digital vigilance as a modern form of national defence. Officials stressed that understanding the state ideology of Pancasila and verifying information are essential to maintaining national unity in the digital age.

Two Men Posing as Journalists Demand Money from Denpasar Police Traffic Chief

Two men have been accused of attempting to extort money from the Denpasar Police traffic chief in exchange for removing online content. The pair, who claimed to be journalists, had initially reported alleged illegal levies in driving licence services. One of the individuals has since been named a suspect in a separate assault and threat case.

Indonesia confident in Iran's commitment to peaceful resolution

Indonesian officials, acting as special envoys for President Prabowo Subianto, have expressed confidence in Iran's commitment to a peaceful resolution of its conflict with the United States following a meeting in Mashhad. The delegation, which included Foreign Minister Sugiono, also discussed the safe passage of Indonesian oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting Indonesia's diplomatic efforts to ensure regional stability and protect its economic interests.

Jakarta Council Stresses Importance of Updating Regional Tax Data

The Jakarta Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has urged the city administration to improve its tax data management, highlighting discrepancies found in advertisement tax records. Lawmakers emphasised that accurate databases are crucial for optimising local revenue and formulating sound fiscal policy.

Sumbawa's Istana Dalam Loka to be Revitalised with Rp 26 Billion from Culture Ministry

The Indonesian Ministry of Culture has allocated Rp 26 billion to revitalise the historic Istana Dalam Loka complex in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara. The project will restore three heritage buildings—Istana Kuning, Istana Putih, and Istana Dalam Loka—to their original condition while aiming to create a cultural economic ecosystem for local communities. Construction is targeted to begin by the end of July and be completed within the year.

Transportation Agency Reveals Why Tendean Footbridge Demolition Took Over 10 Hours

The demolition of a pedestrian footbridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta, which was struck by a heavy equipment truck, took nearly 11 hours to complete. Officials cited crowds of onlookers and peak-hour traffic as the main factors slowing the operation. Safety concerns forced workers to repeatedly manage bystanders who were getting too close to the heavy machinery.

Hundreds of boats accompany sea offering ritual in Muaragembong waters, Bekasi

Approximately 700 to 800 boats, mostly belonging to local fishermen, took part in the annual 'nadran' sea offering ritual in Muaragembong, Bekasi, West Java. The tradition, which involves casting a buffalo head into the sea, is an expression of gratitude for the year's catch and a prayer for future abundance. Organisers noted this year's event was the most festive in years, though they highlighted the lack of government support and ongoing struggles with affordable fuel and LPG supplies.

Regent Satria Threatens to Deport Unruly Tourists in Nusa Penida

Klungkung Regent I Made Satria has announced plans to deport unruly tourists from Nusa Penida once the island is transformed into a high-quality tourism destination. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to develop Nusa Penida as a 'green island' by 2030, supported by electric vehicles, improved infrastructure, and digital public services. The regent stated that the recent establishment of an immigration office in Klungkung will facilitate the swift deportation of visitors who cause trouble or violate regulations.

North Sumatra Governor Gives Pertamina Two Days to Resolve Fuel Distribution Crisis

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has given PT Pertamina Patra Niaga a two-day deadline to resolve fuel distribution disruptions across the province. The shortage at petrol stations is attributed to a mass walkout of tanker drivers rather than a lack of fuel supply. The provincial government has offered military and police personnel to assist with driving and security to restore normal operations.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Adjusts Bright Gas Prices Effective 14 July 2026

Pertamina Patra Niaga has announced a price reduction for its non-subsidised Bright Gas canisters, effective 14 July 2026. The 12 kg canister will drop by Rp8,000 to Rp220,000, while the 5.5 kg canister will fall by Rp4,000 to Rp103,000 in Java. The company stated the adjustment follows a periodic evaluation of market dynamics to ensure competitive pricing.

ULM Sends Students to Serve in Nusantara Capital City

Universitas Lambung Mangkurat (ULM) has dispatched two students to participate in a collaborative community service programme in Indonesia's new capital, IKN. The initiative, part of a consortium involving Kalimantan universities and the IKN Authority, aims to support the capital's development through education and innovation. The students will be placed in directorates matching their fields of study as part of a 'living lab' concept.

Study Reveals Depression and Anxiety Increase Risk of Premature Death

New research indicates that mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are linked to a significantly higher risk of premature death, primarily due to associated chronic physical illnesses. A major study in Hong Kong found that men with depression lost an average of 5.67 years of life expectancy, while women lost 4.06 years. Experts stress that early intervention through therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes is crucial to mitigating these risks.

Singapore, Indonesia launch defence alumni initiative

Singapore and Indonesia have launched a new defence alumni network to strengthen long-term ties between their armed forces. The initiative, named PERSAHAN, will connect generations of officers from both nations who have trained together, fostering personal and professional bonds beyond active service. Both defence ministers reaffirmed their commitment to exploring new areas of bilateral cooperation and maintaining regional stability through multilateral platforms like ASEAN.

Depok Government to Revitalise Unroadworthy Angkots, Monitor Cross-Regional Routes

The Depok City Government has announced a gradual revitalisation programme for dilapidated public minivans (angkot) following passenger complaints about vehicles missing bumpers, licence plates, and windows. The Transportation Agency (Dishub) will first introduce electric minivans on the Depok Terminal-Jatijajar Terminal route. For cross-border angkot routes registered in Jakarta and Bogor Regency, Depok's role is limited to supervision, and it will coordinate with neighbouring transportation agencies to enforce minimum service standards.

15 Chinese and Vietnamese Nationals Arrested for Data Theft via Fake Job Ads

Immigration authorities and police in East Java have arrested 15 foreign nationals from China and Vietnam for alleged immigration violations and personal data misuse. The suspects reportedly posted fake job advertisements to harvest applicants' personal information, which was then used to open bank accounts under the victims' identities without their knowledge. A joint investigation is ongoing to uncover the full extent of the network's activities and potential links to other criminal offences.

KPK Seizes Electronic Evidence After Searching BPK Member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi's Home

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized electronic evidence following a search of the residence of Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi. The search is part of an investigation into alleged bribery linked to a BPK audit of procurement in the Muara Enim Regency government. Five individuals have been named as suspects in the case, which involves an alleged bribe of Rp500 million intended to influence audit findings.

Responding to Public Complaints, Kuansing Police Destroy 48 Illegal Gold Rafts

Police in Kuantan Singingi have destroyed 48 illegal gold mining rafts along the Kuantan River following complaints from residents about environmental damage. The joint operation, conducted with military and sub-district officials, targeted five villages in Cerenti District. No miners were apprehended during the crackdown, but authorities set all equipment ablaze on site to prevent future use.

Archaeologists Reveal Identity of First Known Ancient Maya Astronomer from Xultun Ruins

Archaeologists have for the first time identified a named ancient Maya astronomer-mathematician, Sak Tahn Waax, from hieroglyphs found in the Xultun ruins in Guatemala. The discovery, published in the journal Antiquity, links astronomical calculations on a wall to a specific individual, humanising Maya scientific achievements. Researchers hope this breakthrough will further illuminate how the ancient civilisation understood the cosmos.

Basarnas Searches for 8-Year-Old Boy Snatched by Crocodile in Kotabaru River

A search and rescue operation is underway in South Kalimantan for an eight-year-old boy who was attacked by a crocodile while bathing in the Kupang River. The incident occurred in Kotabaru Regency on Tuesday afternoon, with the victim reportedly dragged underwater in front of witnesses. Authorities have urged the public to avoid independent search efforts due to the dangerous wildlife habitat.

Governor ASR Prepares 6 Strategic Steps to Boost Regional Revenue and APBD Governance

Southeast Sulawesi Governor Andi Sumangerukka has outlined six strategic measures to improve regional financial management and maximise locally-generated revenue. The plan responds to input from the provincial parliament and includes stricter tax enforcement, particularly targeting mining company vehicles using out-of-province plates. The administration also pledged to follow up on all recommendations from the Supreme Audit Agency and improve asset management.

XLSmart Coordinates with National Police to Uncover BTS Module Theft

Indonesian telecommunications company XLSmart is working with the National Police's Mobile Investigation Unit to investigate a series of thefts of base transceiver station (BTS) modules across the country. The perpetrators, who posed as installation technicians, caused service disruptions for thousands of customers and an estimated loss of Rp5 billion. Police have arrested four suspects, including the thieves and a collector who handled the stolen goods.

Padang Police Investigate Student Suspected of Assembling Bomb

Police in Padang, West Sumatra, are investigating a 17-year-old student suspected of assembling a bomb that exploded at MAN 3 Padang. The student, identified as R, is believed to have learned bomb-making techniques independently via the internet. No casualties were reported, but the incident caused material damage and prompted a police response involving coordination with national counter-terrorism units.

Central Lombok Police Chief AKBP Eko Yusmiarto Officially Transferred to Central Kalimantan

AKBP Eko Yusmiarto has been officially transferred from his post as Central Lombok Police Chief to lead the Lamandau Police in Central Kalimantan. The handover ceremony took place with his successor, Kombes Hariyanto, following a hearing at the Indonesian House of Representatives regarding the alleged burning of three Islamic students. During his tenure, Eko handled several high-profile cases, including a drug village raid and the investigation into a missing Islamic boarding school leader accused of sexual assault.

DP World to Build New Port in Fujairah to Bypass Strait of Hormuz

Dubai's DP World is planning a new multipurpose port and container terminal on the UAE's eastern coast to reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz amid heightened regional security concerns. The strategic move follows a sharp decline in activity at Jebel Ali port after Iran's closure of the vital waterway. The new facility on the Gulf of Oman aims to secure trade flows by enabling cargo to bypass the strait entirely.

Heatwave kills at least 14,000 in Europe

A severe heatwave across Europe in late June is estimated to have caused at least 14,000 excess deaths in six countries. Researchers attribute the spike in mortality to the extreme temperatures, with Germany and France recording the highest numbers. The event saw temperatures approach or exceed 40 degrees Celsius in several regions, setting new records.

OJK Expects Bank Credit Growth to Exceed 10% by End of 2026

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is optimistic that bank credit growth will surpass 10% by the end of 2026, supported by strong liquidity and manageable interest rates. The regulator noted that credit growth in May 2026 had already reached 11.51% year-on-year, while third-party funds grew 13.49%. OJK also expects a gradual adjustment of lending rates following Bank Indonesia's benchmark rate hike.

Tendean Road Towards Blok M Reopens After Footbridge Debris Cleared

Traffic on Jalan Kapten Tendean heading towards Blok M in South Jakarta has returned to normal after the completion of a footbridge demolition and debris clearance. The pedestrian bridge was nearly destroyed earlier in the day when a truck carrying heavy equipment struck it. Police are investigating the incident, with the driver suspected of using a mobile phone at the time of the collision.

Online gambling crackdown must target entire ecosystem: minister

Indonesia's Communications and Digital Minister has stressed that merely blocking gambling websites is insufficient, calling for the dismantling of the entire ecosystem. Measures include freezing bank accounts linked to gambling, enhancing early detection, and strengthening coordination with the Financial Services Authority and law enforcement. The government has already blocked 3.7 million gambling sites since October 2024 and is advancing data integration to disrupt financial flows and ensure comprehensive prosecution.

US Ammunition Stocks Dwindle Amid Iran Conflict, Patriot Missiles in Short Supply

The United States is facing a critical ammunition shortage after expending a significant portion of its stockpile in the conflict with Iran, with a defence analyst warning that usage has outpaced production capacity. The high demand for Patriot missile systems, which have been heavily used in the region and are also sought by Ukraine, has created a production backlog that could take years to clear. The situation has intensified political pressure on the Trump administration as it continues military operations in the Strait of Hormuz.

Reigniting the Light of Sight for Cataract Patients

Cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness in Indonesia, accounting for 81.2 per cent of cases among those aged 50 and above, severely impacting quality of life and independence. A humanitarian initiative, Bulan Bakti PERDAMI 2026, has been launched to provide free cataract surgeries and restore vision. The programme involves comprehensive screening and post-operative care, with facilities such as JEC ANWARI @ Purwokerto participating to expand access to treatment.

Government Prepares Mitigation Measures to Curb Inflation

The Indonesian government is implementing a series of mitigation measures to control inflation, with a particular focus on volatile food prices and rising production costs. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted the need to manage food commodity prices and address the impact of increased packaging costs on food products. The government is also relying on recently issued fiscal policies, including duty exemptions for LPG and spare parts, to help ease price pressures.

Residents Advised to Store Water During Hutan Kota Water Treatment Plant Maintenance

PAM JAYA has announced maintenance work at the Hutan Kota Water Treatment Plant from 17 to 22 July 2026, which may reduce pressure or temporarily cut supply to approximately 55,272 customers in West Jakarta. The company is urging affected residents in areas such as Cengkareng and Kapuk Muara to store water in advance. Free water tanker assistance will be provided for households and essential public facilities during the period.

Minister PANRB: BRIN Transformation Strengthens the Nation Through Research and Innovation

Minister of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform Rini Widyantini has emphasised that strengthening the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is key to accelerating national research and innovation. She stated that an adaptive and effective organisational structure is essential to bolster the national research ecosystem and support science-based development. The ministry supports BRIN's proposed organisational changes, including new units and nomenclature adjustments, pending further refinement.

President To Lam Invites Prabowo for Official Visit to Vietnam

Vietnamese President To Lam has extended an official invitation to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Foreign Minister Sugiono to visit Vietnam. The invitation was conveyed during a meeting in Jakarta where both nations signed a Plan of Action for their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership covering 2026-2030. The agreement outlines enhanced cooperation across trade, security, food resilience, and high-tech industries.

Tendean Footbridge Demolition Complete, South Jakarta Road Reopens in Both Directions

The demolition of a footbridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta, which was struck by a heavy equipment truck, has been completed. The road was reopened to two-way traffic at 9.45 pm local time after the DKI Jakarta administration finished clearing the debris. The bridge had been deemed unusable and was dismantled earlier in the day, causing temporary road closures and traffic diversions.

Minister assures Gayo coffee prices will be maintained for farmers' welfare

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has confirmed that the government is committed to maintaining the current favourable price of Gayo coffee, which has risen to around Rp110,000 per kilogram. The government is also working to strengthen the national export system to give Indonesia a stronger bargaining position in the global market. Support for the sector will continue next year, with an allocation of 17 million coffee seedlings for 17,000 hectares in Aceh.

AMPG Secretary-General Urges Deddy Sitorus Not to Build Misleading Opinions on Coal Issue

The Secretary-General of the Golkar Party's youth wing has called on a PDIP legislator to refrain from creating misleading public narratives regarding an alleged coal procurement case. He emphasised that any suspected violations should be proven through proper legal mechanisms rather than political statements. The official also urged all political elites to uphold democratic ethics and avoid using the issue for short-term political attacks.

HAI: National Police Chief's Meeting with TNI Commander Prioritises National Interest

The Haidar Alwi Institute has praised National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo's initiative in meeting the TNI Commander and the Attorney General, viewing it as leadership that puts national interest above institutional rivalry. The move is seen as an effort to prevent successful law enforcement from escalating into open conflict between state bodies. The institute also noted that transferring a high-profile investigation to the Attorney General's Office demonstrates institutional maturity rather than defeat.

Minister Saifullah Warns Against Bribery in 'Sekolah Rakyat' Admissions

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has issued a stern warning against any corrupt practices in the admissions process for the government's 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) programme. The initiative, backed by a Rp4 trillion budget, is strictly reserved for children from extremely poor families, with outreach conducted transparently through PKH facilitators and local governments. The minister also acknowledged challenges in filling primary school quotas, citing parental hesitation over the programme's intensive boarding-style system.

Indonesia and Vietnam Sign 2026-2030 Plan of Action to Strengthen Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and his Vietnamese counterpart Le Hoai Trung signed a Plan of Action for 2026-2030 in Jakarta, providing a framework for their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The agreement covers enhanced cooperation in food security, high-tech industry, digital economy, and maritime security. Both nations also committed to boosting bilateral trade to USD 18 billion by 2028 and discussed key regional issues including ASEAN centrality and the situation in Myanmar.

Banyumas Police Escalate Money Laundering Probe Against Former Bank Employee to Investigation

Banyumas City Police have elevated a money laundering case involving a former Bank Mandiri Taspen employee to the formal investigation stage. The move follows the discovery of suspected illicit financial flows linked to a prior fraud case, which allegedly caused losses of up to IDR 25 billion affecting over 100 victims. Authorities are now tracing assets and funds believed to be proceeds of crime.

Food Coordinating Minister: PSN Aims to Achieve Food Self-Sufficiency in Papua

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has stated that the National Strategic Project (PSN) in Merauke, South Papua, is a key effort to achieve food independence for the region. The project targets the development of one million hectares of rice fields and biodiesel energy production. If successful, Papua could not only meet its own needs for rice, fish, and fuel but also supply other regions in eastern Indonesia, such as Maluku.

Indonesia steps up chemical rules to advance OECD bid

Indonesia is strengthening its chemical management regulations to meet OECD standards, a key requirement for its accession bid. The government views this alignment as a strategic move to enhance the competitiveness of its domestic chemical industry and expand global market access. The initiative follows a fact-finding mission in Jakarta, where officials reviewed policies to ensure they match international best practices on safety, health, and environmental protection.

Pelindo and Saudi Arabia Explore Port and Logistics Cooperation

Indonesian state-owned port operator Pelindo and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are exploring strategic cooperation in port investment, terminal management, and digitalisation. The discussions took place during a visit by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistic Services to Tanjung Priok Port in Jakarta. The partnership aims to strengthen trade connectivity and supply chains between the two G20 nations.

TGB Name Mentioned in House Commission III Hearing on Santri Burning Case, NWDI Clarifies

The Executive Board of Nahdlatul Wathan Diniyah Islamiyah (PB NWDI) has clarified that the organisation led by Tuan Guru Bajang (TGB) Muhammad Zainul Majdi is not affiliated with a pesantren involved in a fatal burning case. PB NWDI emphasised it is a legally distinct entity from Nahdlatul Wathan (NW), which operates the school in question. The organisation expressed full support for a transparent and just legal process while urging the public and media to verify affiliations accurately.

Prananda Surya Paloh Encourages Youth Contribution Beyond Political Routes

Garda Pemuda NasDem Chairman Prananda Surya Paloh has urged young Indonesians to contribute to the nation through their respective professions rather than solely through practical politics. Speaking ahead of the organisation's second congress in July 2026, he outlined plans to transform the youth wing into a collaborative platform for various professional fields. The initiative aims to adopt a more open and contemporary approach to youth engagement.

House of Representatives Considers Proposal for Asset Management Body in Asset Forfeiture Bill

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is weighing public input, including a proposal to establish a dedicated asset management body, as it drafts the Asset Forfeiture Bill. DPR leaders have dismissed online claims that the bill is being rejected as false, insisting discussions are ongoing to meet meaningful public participation requirements. The bill, first proposed in 2008, is a priority for the 2026 national legislation programme.

Lebanon Condemns Houthi Retaliatory Attack on Saudi Airport

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has strongly condemned a Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia, describing it as a blatant violation of the kingdom's sovereignty. He affirmed Lebanon's full solidarity with Riyadh and its right to self-defence. The attack on Abha International Airport was reportedly in retaliation for a strike on Sanaa airport.

West Java DPRD Criticises Poor Planning Behind Frequent APBD Shifts and Revisions

The West Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has strongly criticised the provincial government's budget planning, citing eight shifts and five revisions to the 2025 APBD as evidence of poor preparation. Lawmakers warned that the resulting fiscal damage and a historic IDR 600 billion deferred payment are jeopardising the region's development targets. The council is also urging a more realistic approach to revenue targets after a significant shortfall in 2025.

Ombudsman RI Officially Commences 2026 Public Service Assessment, Expanding Scope to Include State-Owned Enterprises

The Indonesian Ombudsman (ORI) has officially launched its 2026 assessment of public service delivery, marking the first time the evaluation will expand beyond ministries and regional governments to include State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN), State Legal Entities (BHMN), and State Universities (PTN-BH). The assessment will cover 581 public service providers and aims to provide a more comprehensive picture of maladministration and compliance. Ombudsman officials emphasised that collaboration and information transparency are key to ensuring the assessment leads to tangible improvements in public services.

Gianyar Police Strengthen Synergy with TNI and Prosecutor's Office, Discuss Public Order

The Gianyar Resort Police hosted a gathering with the local military command and prosecutor's office to reinforce inter-agency solidarity. Discussions focused on the public security situation, case handling coordination, and improving public services. The meeting aimed to solidify collaboration in prevention, law enforcement, and resolving community issues.

Hungarian Parliament Abruptly Dismisses President in Sweeping Purge of Old Regime

Hungary's parliament has voted overwhelmingly to amend the constitution and remove President Tamas Sulyok, a key ally of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban. The move is part of new Prime Minister Peter Magyar's aggressive 'Operation Fire Cleanse' to dismantle the remnants of the previous nationalist government following his party's landslide election victory. Sulyok faces a five-day deadline to sign the amendment or face immediate impeachment proceedings.

Open University Promotes Inclusive Education

Universitas Terbuka (UT) has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to higher education for all societal levels, regardless of age, profession, or social status. The university emphasised that all students, including public officials and public figures, are held to the same academic standards without special treatment. The statement was made during a graduation ceremony in South Tangerang attended by approximately 1,500 graduates from diverse backgrounds.

Bandung Launches Free Rabies Vaccination Programme 'Bangsawan' to Protect Public Health

The Bandung City Government has launched a free rabies vaccination programme called 'Bangsawan' to safeguard animal and public health. The initiative, run by the Food and Agriculture Security Agency, aims to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases and targets at least 70% vaccination coverage among rabies-carrying animals. The programme also includes public education on routine annual boosters and a separate sterilisation scheme to control the feral cat population.

Recognising Signs of Anxiety in Children Starting School

A child psychologist has outlined key indicators of anxiety in children as they begin the new school term, including excessive crying and refusal to enter the classroom. Parents and teachers are urged to collaborate closely to help children adapt to their new environment. If symptoms persist for several weeks, parents are advised to seek professional consultation.

Jakarta Treaty Strengthens Security Cooperation, Not a Military Pact

Australia's Deputy Foreign Minister Matt Thislethwaite has clarified that the Indonesia-Australia Treaty on Common Security is not a military alliance akin to AUKUS, but a framework for addressing shared threats. The agreement, signed in February 2026, allows for unprecedented defence collaboration, including the posting of Indonesian officers to an Australian brigade, while preserving each nation's sovereignty. Both countries view the pact as a commitment to regional stability and a potential model for broader ASEAN engagement.

Madiun Regency Government Optimises Recruitment for 'Sekolah Rakyat' Students with Open House

The Madiun Regency Government is intensifying efforts to recruit students for the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) for the 2026/2027 academic year through an open house event. The initiative aims to familiarise parents with the boarding school concept, particularly to address hesitancy regarding primary school enrolment. Physical construction of the school is reportedly 92 percent complete and is targeted to be fully operational by the end of July 2026.

OJK Chief Details Six Major Challenges in Combating Online Gambling

The head of Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has outlined six key obstacles hindering the eradication of online gambling, including rapidly changing domains and cross-border syndicates. Friderica Widyasari Dewi highlighted the difficulty of tracing funds through digital domains and intermediary accounts, while also stressing the need for improved public financial literacy. She noted that by May 2026, authorities had blocked 32,453 accounts and rejected millions of business relationships linked to such activities.

Indonesia calls for stronger governance as risks become new normal

Indonesia's government has emphasised the need for stronger governance and deeper financial reforms as global uncertainties become a permanent feature of the economic landscape. Deputy Minister Ferry Irawan highlighted that geopolitical tensions and market volatility are now the 'new normal', but pointed to IMF and ADB forecasts of over 5 percent growth in 2026 as proof of the country's resilient fundamentals. Key strategies include expanding local currency transactions, developing a national bullion ecosystem, and leveraging international partnerships through forums like BRICS and the OECD to safeguard market integrity.

Tendean Pedestrian Bridge Demolition Targeted for Completion Tonight

The demolition of a pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta, which was severely damaged after being struck by a heavy equipment truck, is still ongoing. Authorities are targeting the clearance to be completed by tonight to restore normal traffic flow. The incident has caused significant disruption, with the road from Pancoran towards Blok M remaining closed while the opposite direction has reopened.

East Java Prosecutor's Office Reminded Not to Criminalise and to Maintain Legal Professionalism

A community group has urged the East Java High Prosecutor's Office to avoid criminalising administrative or business errors and to maintain professionalism in law enforcement. The protest was sparked by concerns over a recent high-profile seizure of cash and gold bars allegedly linked to a former senior official. The group warned that heavy-handed legal tactics could damage the investment climate and regional stability.

Pos Indonesia Launches Digital Coaching Clinic for SMEs in Bandung and Cirebon

State-owned postal service PT Pos Indonesia is accelerating digital transformation for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through a new coaching clinic programme in Bandung and Cirebon. The initiative aims to equip business owners with practical digital skills, from online store management to integrated logistics, to enhance their competitiveness. The programme is part of a broader national strategy, including collaboration with the Ministry of Communication and Digital, to strengthen the digital ecosystem and drive economic growth.

Uproar as Aung San Suu Kyi Vanishes in Myanmar, Feared Dead

Concerns are mounting over the fate of Myanmar's detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who has not been seen publicly since 2022. Her son and international diplomats are demanding proof of life from the junta, which has failed to provide convincing evidence of her well-being. Speculation is growing that the 81-year-old Nobel laureate may have died in custody.

Governor Bobby Demands Immediate Resolution of Fuel Distribution Disruptions in North Sumatra

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has confirmed that fuel stocks are sufficient, attributing shortages at petrol stations to a disruption in distribution caused by a reduced number of tanker truck drivers. The provincial government is coordinating with Pertamina, the military, and police to deploy personnel to assist with deliveries. Governor Bobby has urged Pertamina to resolve the internal management issue swiftly to prevent further impact on the public and the local economy.

Bali Journalists' Solidarity Condemns Lawyer's Lawsuit Against Four Media Outlets

A journalists' solidarity group in Bali has urged the Denpasar District Court to reject a civil lawsuit filed against four media companies by lawyer Togar Situmorang. The group argues the dispute over reporting of Situmorang's suspect status in an alleged embezzlement case should be resolved through the Press Council mechanism, not the courts. They warn that accepting the lawsuit would set a dangerous precedent threatening press freedom in Indonesia.

European Commission Launches Team Gaza Initiative, Disburses Rp 16.9 Trillion for Gaza Recovery

The European Commission has launched the Team Gaza Initiative, providing €883.6 million in coordinated funding to support early recovery efforts in the Palestinian enclave. The funds will target essential sectors including water, sanitation, health, and energy. The initiative is backed by the European Commission, the European Investment Bank, the World Bank, and several member states, with additional commitments made through the EU's PEGASE mechanism.

Democrats in Cianjur Prepare for 2029 Legislative Election, Target 10 Seats

The Democratic Party in Cianjur, West Java, has begun preparations for the 2029 legislative election, setting an ambitious target of securing 10 parliamentary seats. Party officials aim to win six seats in the district council, two in the national parliament, and two in the provincial legislature. The party is focusing on strengthening internal solidarity and cadre capacity to achieve this goal.

Indonesia blocks 3.7 million online gambling sites since Oct 2024

Indonesia's Communications and Digital Ministry has blocked 3.7 million online gambling websites and content since October 2024, with public reports aiding the effort. The crackdown involves close coordination with financial authorities, resulting in the closure of 32,500 bank accounts linked to such activities. The government is shifting towards pattern-based anomaly detection and faster data sharing to strengthen enforcement.

House Commission X Appreciates 91.59 Percent Budget Absorption by Ministry of Youth and Sports

The House of Representatives (DPR) Commission X has commended the Ministry of Youth and Sports for achieving a 91.59 percent budget realisation for the 2025 fiscal year. The commission also urged the ministry to enhance planning quality and internal controls for the upcoming year. Notable achievements highlighted include the successful hosting of MotoGP Mandalika, which generated Rp4.96 trillion in economic impact, and Indonesia's best-ever performance at an overseas SEA Games.

IPB University Successfully Breeds Indonesia's First Local Habanero Chilli Varieties

IPB University has developed four local habanero chilli varieties, marking the first of their kind to be officially registered in Indonesia. The new cultivars boast extreme heat levels, up to five times spicier than common bird's eye chillies, and are specifically adapted to thrive in tropical climates. The seeds are now commercially available to farmers, offering significant potential for both domestic industry and export markets.

Europe Suddenly Has a New Defence Alliance, a NATO Rival?

Ukraine and ten European nations have launched a new Integrated Anti-Ballistic Missile Coalition to develop a cheaper alternative to the US-made Patriot system. The alliance, announced in Paris, aims to create a unified missile defence architecture to counter intensifying Russian ballistic missile attacks. The initiative includes the 'Freyja' project and a landmark decision by France to grant Ukraine production licences for interceptor missiles and long-range SCALP cruise missiles.

Wings Air to Resume Flights from Husein Sastranegara Airport to Eight Cities Starting August

Wings Air will recommence operations from Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport in August 2026, initially serving Lampung and Palembang. The airline plans to connect passengers to eight cities across Sumatra, including Batam, Pangkalpinang, and Kualanamu, using ATR 72 aircraft. The move follows the central government's reactivation of the airport.

Menpora prepares youth 'blueprint' for the next 100 years

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir is developing a national youth blueprint to guide character building and leadership development for the next century. The initiative aims to ensure Indonesia's demographic bonus becomes a source of strength rather than a liability by fostering a competitive young generation. The ministry is also significantly increasing its youth sector budget for 2027 to support this long-term strategic investment.

Good Samaritan in Klungkung Beaten by Mob After Reprimanding Drunk Riders

A day labourer in Klungkung, Bali, was severely beaten by a group of intoxicated men after he tried to help them and reprimanded them for speeding. The victim, I Kadek Indrawan, suffered serious facial injuries including a dislodged tooth. Police have confirmed they are investigating the assault and are pursuing the suspects.

House Deputy: KUHAP Guide Needed to Ensure Legal Certainty

A senior Indonesian legislator has stressed the need for a clear guide to the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) to guarantee legal certainty for the public. The statement was made during the launch of an annotated version of the 2025 KUHAP, compiled by the House of Representatives' Commission III. The book aims to provide comprehensive explanations of the code's provisions for law enforcement and the public.

Bogor Police Precincts Visit Military Sub-District Commands to Maintain Synergy

Several police precincts under the Bogor Police Resort visited their corresponding military sub-district commands (Koramil) in Bogor Regency, West Java, to strengthen inter-agency coordination. The visits, directed by the Bogor Police Chief, aimed to solidify the relationship between the police and the military. Officials emphasised that such synergy is crucial for maintaining public security and providing optimal services to the community.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Prepares Educational Materials to Prevent Spread of 'LGBT Culture'

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing educational materials aimed at preventing the spread of what it terms 'LGBT culture' in schools. The initiative follows a presidential regulation that categorises the dissemination of LGBTQ culture as a non-military threat. The materials, which will incorporate Pancasila values and religious norms, are being designed for students across various levels, from primary to secondary education.

Ministry Issues Circular to Promote Healthy Digital Culture by Restricting Gadget Use in Schools

Indonesia's Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has issued a circular aimed at restricting gadget use within educational settings to foster a healthier digital culture. Minister Abdul Mu'ti clarified the policy is not a ban but a guide for wise and responsible use, intended to improve student concentration and social interaction. The initiative calls for collaboration between schools, families, and digital service providers to protect children from online risks.

BSI Vehicle Financing Grows 12.40 Percent in June, Reaching IDR 6.70 Trillion

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) reported a 12.40 percent year-on-year increase in vehicle financing through its BSI OTO product, reaching IDR 6.70 trillion as of June 2026. The bank attributes this growth to sustained public demand for Sharia-compliant financing and digital transformation efforts. BSI remains optimistic that vehicle financing will continue to be a key driver of its consumer lending growth throughout the year.

House Commission III Backs AGO Handling of Former Jampidsus Corruption Case

The House of Representatives' Commission III has expressed support for the Attorney General's Office (AGO) handling the corruption case of former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah, citing confidence in the institution's independence. The case, initially investigated by the police, has been transferred to the AGO, a move criticised by legal advocates and former officials who argue it should be handled by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to avoid conflicts of interest. Critics warn the transfer sets a dangerous precedent and undermines legal certainty.

P2MI and Tourism Ministries Strengthen HR Synergy for SMK Go Global Programme

Indonesia's Migrant Worker Protection Ministry (P2MI) and Tourism Ministry are collaborating to prepare skilled hospitality workers for the international job market through the SMK Go Global programme. The initiative aims to train, certify, and place 40,000 vocational graduates and citizens in overseas jobs by 2026, prioritising the tourism and cruise ship sectors. The partnership will also focus on educating prospective workers about legal and safe migration procedures.

Yakin Investor Segera Kembali, Purbaya: yang Pintar Akan Cepat Masuk ke RI

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa expressed confidence that investment flows into Indonesia will soon recover, citing S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain the country's BBB investment grade rating with a stable outlook. He argued that the reaffirmed rating dispels market doubts about Indonesia's economic fundamentals and fiscal policy implementation. Purbaya emphasised that the government conducts regular, detailed economic and fiscal discussions with the President to ensure coherent policy direction.

Deputy FM: Indonesia-Australia Security Pact Not a Military Alliance Like AUKUS

Australia's Deputy Foreign Minister Matt Thislethwaite clarified that the Indonesia-Australia Treaty on Common Security is not a military alliance akin to AUKUS, but a cooperative framework to address shared threats. The treaty, signed in February, aims to deepen defence cooperation while respecting each nation's sovereignty and domestic processes. It also includes provisions for joint training and officer exchanges, with potential to expand cooperation within the ASEAN framework.

Results of 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz Frequency Selection Officially Ratified

The Ministry of Communication and Digital has ratified the results of the radio frequency band selection for the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrums, intended for mobile cellular network operations in 2026. The ratification proceeded without any objections from participants, finalising the rankings. Telkomsel, Indosat, and XLSmart secured the top positions with combined bids worth hundreds of billions of rupiah.

Kediri Regent Values People's School Programme as Solution to Prevent Dropouts

Kediri Regent Hanindhito Himawan Pramana has endorsed the central government's 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School) programme as a key measure to prevent children from extremely poor families from dropping out of school. The integrated school in Kediri will expand to admit 248 new primary, junior high, and senior high school students in the 2026/2027 academic year. The local government is collaborating with the central government to ensure the programme's success, aiming to break the poverty cycle through education.

Indonesia pushes structural reform to prevent forest fires

Indonesia is shifting its strategy from reactive firefighting to long-term structural prevention of forest fires, according to Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni. The new approach includes auditing fire-control instruments, weather modification operations, and continuous peatland monitoring to curb outbreaks before they escalate. The policy aims to reduce the transboundary haze that regularly affects neighbouring Southeast Asian nations during extended dry seasons.

Korpri Distributes Ambulances and Aid to Disaster-Affected Areas in Aceh

The Indonesian Civil Service Corps (Korpri) has delivered humanitarian aid, including three ambulances and laptops, to disaster-stricken regions in Aceh. The assistance, part of the 'Korpri Peduli' programme, was symbolically handed over during the inauguration of the Aceh Korpri board. The organisation has mobilised approximately Rp3 billion in total aid for various disaster-affected areas across Indonesia.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Governments to Secure Supplies to Control Inflation

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed regional governments to strengthen supply chains and distribution of essential goods to keep inflation in check during the second half of 2026. While annual inflation remains within the national target at 3.34 percent, the government is wary of monthly increases driven by transport costs and food commodities. The minister emphasised the need for central and regional coordination to address distribution challenges, particularly in eastern Indonesia and Aceh.

Mampang Intersection Gridlocked in All Directions Tonight Due to Tendean Footbridge Dismantling

Severe traffic congestion has paralysed the Mampang Prapatan intersection in South Jakarta following the ongoing dismantling of a pedestrian bridge on Jalan Tendean that was struck by a truck. The resulting road closures have caused tailbacks extending to Kuningan, Jalan Gatot Subroto, and Jalan MT Haryono. TransJakarta bus services have also been disrupted, with route diversions and delays reported on Corridor 13.

West Jakarta Food Safety Agency Inspects Four Locations, All Samples Pass

The West Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Agency (Sudin KPKP) conducted food safety inspections at three traditional markets and one supermarket. A total of 36 samples of agricultural and livestock products were tested and declared free from hazardous substances. The initiative aims to ensure that food marketed to the public is safe, healthy, and fit for consumption.

Iran Plays Trump's Game to Deepen His War Dilemma

Donald Trump has accused Iran of reneging on a recent memorandum of understanding, drawing criticism given his own history of withdrawing from international accords. Tehran has responded with sarcasm, mocking Trump's proposed shipping tolls in the Strait of Hormuz and suggesting it could impose its own fairer charges. The exchange highlights Washington's struggle to dictate terms in the conflict, as Iran leverages its geographic position while both sides appear to seek limits on escalation.

Ocean Eddies, Not Just Major Currents, Now Key Determinant of Global Sea Temperatures

New research reveals that small-scale ocean eddies play a more significant role in global climate change than previously understood, challenging the long-held belief that heat distribution is dominated by major currents. The study, focusing on the Agulhas Current, found that these eddies intensify with global warming, trapping warm water at the surface and pushing cold water deeper. Scientists warn this pattern could be widespread, necessitating an urgent update to climate models and sea-level rise projections.

Indonesian Muaythai Dualism Enters Administrative Court, Plaintiff Challenges Ministerial Decree

The internal leadership dispute within the Indonesian Muaythai Governing Body (PBMI) has escalated to the Jakarta Administrative Court, where a faction led by Nadim Al Farell is challenging two ministerial decrees. The plaintiffs argue the rapid issuance of conflicting approvals for similar constitutional amendments creates legal uncertainty. They are also urging a temporary halt to sports funding disbursements pending the court's decision, citing potential corruption risks.

Ade Kuswara Kunang Case: Two Experts Assess It Was Not a Sting Operation, but Purely a Debt Matter

Two expert witnesses testified in the Bandung Corruption Court that the case against the suspended Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang does not meet the criteria for a sting operation. They argued the transaction was a civil debt agreement rather than a bribe, as the defendant allegedly lacked the authority to determine project winners. The defence maintains the payments were instalments on a loan, not gratification.

A Century Complete: It's Time for NU to Look Forward with Heads Held High

As Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) marks its first centenary, the organisation must pivot from a defensive guardian of tradition to a proactive driver of national and global civilisation. The focus for its second century must shift towards human resource development, economic independence, and modern organisational meritocracy. The article argues that NU's 'Islam Nusantara' is a vital export for a world weary of conflict and spiritual crisis.

Turkish National Goes on Rampage in Badung, Injuring Four and Damaging Property

A Turkish national was arrested in Badung, Bali, after a series of hit-and-run collisions on Monday night that left four people injured. The 49-year-old driver, identified by the initials OSA, struck multiple motorcyclists and a car before crashing into a shop and a restaurant while attempting to flee. He was eventually cornered and detained by local residents after crashing into a wall in a narrow alley.

Indonesia Meets Dubai Financial Centre Management to Gather Input for PFII

Indonesian Finance Ministry officials have met with representatives from the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) to seek advice on establishing the country's own Pusat Financial Internasional Indonesia (PFII). The discussions, which include a session with a former DIFC CEO, aim to gather detailed input on structuring the financial centre to ensure the smooth passage of the PFII Bill.

NTB Government Guarantees Monthly Rp 500,000 Compensation for Santri Burn Victims

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government has guaranteed monthly financial aid of Rp 500,000 for two santri who were victims of a burning incident at an Islamic boarding school in Central Lombok. The victims have been designated as permanent zakat recipients through the provincial Baznas during their recovery period. Officials also confirmed the government is providing psychological support and facilitating medical treatment, including travel to Jakarta.

European Commission Agrees €883.6 Million Fund for Gaza Recovery

The European Commission has launched the Team Gaza Initiative, securing €883.6 million in coordinated funding to support early recovery efforts in the Palestinian territory. The funds, backed by EU member states and international financial institutions, will target essential services including water, sanitation, health, and energy. The initiative aims to complement global efforts to rebuild Gaza's devastated infrastructure.

DPR Focuses on Governance Reform to Optimise Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The House of Representatives (DPR) Commission IX has pledged to address governance issues plaguing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme after hearing complaints from partner organisations. Partners reported significant financial losses, regulatory uncertainty, and a moratorium that left their investments in limbo, particularly in remote regions. The DPR will present these concerns to the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) in an upcoming working meeting to push for transparent and accountable management.

Towards the 3rd National Kebaya Day, Dozens of Women's Organisations Unite to Strengthen the Kebaya Movement

Dozens of Indonesian women's organisations and cultural communities are preparing for the 3rd National Kebaya Day, aiming to reinforce the kebaya as a symbol of national identity and heritage. The movement, led by Lana T. Koentjoro, celebrates the garment's historical and philosophical significance, following its UNESCO intangible cultural heritage recognition. The peak event is scheduled for 24 July 2026 in Jakarta, with participation from over 70 organisations.

Indonesian Para-Athlete Activist Receives Appreciation from IPC President

Natalia Tjahja, an Indonesian activist, has been recognised by International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Andrew Parsons for her work promoting inclusion for disabled athletes. Her '100 Celebrities Talk for Para Athletes' movement, which she co-founded with the Maria Monique Last Wish Foundation, has grown into a global campaign championing equality. Tjahja is the only non-athlete and non-sports official to be honoured among a list of international figures for their contribution to the Paralympic movement.

Tito Urges Regional Governments to Strengthen Supply and Distribution to Curb Inflation

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has called on regional governments to bolster supply chains and ensure smooth distribution of goods to keep inflation in check during the second half of 2026. While national inflation remains within the target range at 3.34 percent year-on-year, pressures from the transport sector and key food commodities persist. The government is focusing on high-inflation regions, particularly in eastern Indonesia and Aceh, to stabilise prices and protect purchasing power.

Prices of Several Staples Rise at Klaten's Gedhe Market as Free Nutritious Meal Programme Resumes

Prices of key food commodities, including beef, chicken, eggs, and chillies, have increased at Pasar Gedhe Klaten following the resumption of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme after the long school holiday. Market officials confirmed the price hikes but noted they remain within reasonable limits, while assuring that supply remains secure and smooth. The report also highlights broader national food price trends and government efforts to maintain stability through rice reserves.

Israel Denies US Congressman Ro Khanna's Claims of Confrontation in the West Bank

Israeli officials have strongly refuted claims by US Congressman Ro Khanna that he and other Americans were held at gunpoint by settlers in the West Bank. The Israeli military and police provided a conflicting account, stating no physical confrontation occurred and that the incident lasted only minutes. The dispute has become a new flashpoint in the debate over settler violence and Israeli actions in the occupied territory.

Takeda to Invest $30 Million in Indonesia's Plasma Medicine Industry

Japanese biopharmaceutical firm Takeda is committing $30 million in an initial phase to build a nationwide plasma collection network in Indonesia, supporting the development of a domestic plasma-derived medicines industry. The investment, announced by Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, is expected to facilitate technology transfer, create high-skilled jobs, and improve public access to plasma-based treatments. The government aims to have its first plasma bank operational by 2027 as part of efforts to position Indonesia as a regional healthcare manufacturing hub.

Kepri Provincial Government to Build Two New Vocational Schools in Batam to Meet Demand

The Kepulauan Riau Provincial Government will construct two new state vocational high schools (SMKN) in Batam in 2026 to expand access to vocational education. The initiative aims to accommodate the high number of applicants and align graduate competencies with the needs of the region's growing industries. The schools will offer programmes in welding, computer networking, and industrial electronics.

RWA Considered a New Growth Engine for the Crypto Industry, Here's the Explanation

Tokenisation of Real World Assets (RWA) is gaining traction as a key growth driver in the global crypto industry, bridging traditional finance with blockchain technology. A Citi Institute report projects the tokenised asset market could reach US$5.5 trillion by 2030, up from a current valuation of around US$17 billion. Indonesian exchange Indodax notes increasing trading activity and investor interest in tokenised stocks and other real-world assets, signalling a shift in blockchain's role beyond just cryptocurrencies.

Jasa Raharja: Integrated vehicle tax data boosts taxpayer compliance

PT Jasa Raharja is advocating for strengthened national data integration as a key strategy to improve motor vehicle tax compliance across Indonesia. The state-owned insurer has segmented data on 98 million vehicles into collectable and recovery populations to enable more targeted interventions. Analysis indicates the greatest potential for increased regional revenue lies in Central Java, East Java, and West Java.

Minister Meutya: Eradication of Online Gambling Must Be Comprehensive

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid has stressed that combating online gambling requires a holistic approach targeting the entire ecosystem, not just blocking websites. She highlighted the need to cut off financial flows by targeting 'collector accounts' in collaboration with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the banking sector. The strategy involves prevention through site blocking, mid-stream disruption of payments, and law enforcement against perpetrators.

Deputy Industry Minister Reveals Causes of Low Industrial Utilisation

Indonesia's manufacturing utilisation rate remains under pressure at 61.8%, hampered by global economic headwinds and unresolved energy supply issues. Deputy Industry Minister Faisol Riza highlighted that challenges stem from both demand-side weakness and high production costs, with gas availability being a key internal constraint. The government is pursuing new investments and cross-ministerial coordination to boost industrial capacity, though resolving upstream-downstream issues will take time.

Police Investigate Motive Behind School Bombing in Padang, Bullying Suspected as Trigger

Police in Padang, West Sumatra, are investigating a school bombing carried out by a 17-year-old student, with initial findings suggesting prolonged bullying as the motive. The suspect, identified as R, admitted to assembling the explosive device at home after learning the method online, and detonated it at school as a response to severe mental pressure. No fatalities were reported, but the incident has raised serious concerns about the impact of bullying and the accessibility of bomb-making instructions on the internet.

UNIB to Select 1,367 International Applicants from 60 Countries

The University of Bengkulu (UNIB) is set to select 1,367 international applicants from a pool of over 4,800 registrants for its 2026 intake. The selection process, scheduled for mid-July, will assess academic readiness and cultural adaptability. The high demand, particularly for medicine and science programmes, is attributed to the university's ongoing internationalisation strategy and may lead to an increase in the initially planned 50 places.

Minister urges safe, hazing-free school orientation for Sekolah Rakyat

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has urged all parties to ensure a safe and comfortable Masa Pengenalan Lingkungan Sekolah (MPLS) for Sekolah Rakyat students, strictly prohibiting hazing and violence. He stressed the importance of empathetic support from teachers to help students adapt, especially during the challenging initial months. The minister also called for the careful maintenance of school facilities, describing them as a symbol of the state's support for the most disadvantaged families under President Prabowo's initiative.

Banks Sever Ties with 51,200 Customers Over Online Gambling Indications, Says OJK

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has reported that banks have terminated business relationships with 51,200 customers due to indications of online gambling transactions. The regulator has also strengthened anti-money laundering measures and coordinated with PPATK, resulting in the blocking of 32,453 accounts. Suspicious transaction reports related to gambling predicate crimes surged by 260 percent in 2025, highlighting both the industry's commitment and the scale of the challenge.

WIKA Strengthens National Healthcare Services with Construction of CMU at Dr. Sardjito Hospital

State-owned construction firm PT Wijaya Karya is building a 13-storey Central Medical Unit at Yogyakarta's Dr. Sardjito General Hospital to enhance specialist medical capacity. The project, which commenced in December 2025 and is scheduled for completion in December 2027, will house specialist care, education, and research facilities. The initiative supports the government's priority to improve human resources through better healthcare infrastructure.

Indonesia Expands Visa-Free List to Include Turkey, Brazil, and Kazakhstan

Indonesia has expanded its visa-free entry list to include Turkey, Brazil, Peru, Kazakhstan, Macau, and Belarus, effective 9 July 2026. The policy aims to boost tourism, investment, and bilateral ties while adhering to principles of reciprocity and national security. The Indonesian Ambassador to Kazakhstan anticipates the move could help increase bilateral trade to USD 2 billion within three to five years.

NTB Provincial Government Revenue Projected at Rp 6.2 Trillion in 2027

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government projects its 2027 revenue to reach Rp 6.2 trillion, a 10.69% increase from the previous year, driven primarily by a 20.01% surge in central government transfers. The draft budget also outlines a surplus of Rp 162 billion, though a council member has raised concerns over the poor realisation of asset retribution, particularly in the Gili Islands, which is hampering locally generated revenue.

Dozens of 'Sekolah Rakyat' Ready to Expand Access to Quality Education as New School Year Begins

Dozens of newly built 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) across Indonesia are ready to welcome students as the new academic year's orientation period begins. The schools, constructed by state-owned PT Nindya Karya, are part of a government initiative to provide equitable educational infrastructure, including in underdeveloped regions. Facilities include classrooms, teacher housing, and sports complexes, marking a significant step in the government's commitment to improving human resources.

Dexa Medica Reaches 15,000 Participants, Stresses Public Health Begins with Prevention

Dexa Medica's 'Cek Kesehatan Segitiga' programme has screened over 15,000 Indonesians since 2024, revealing that 63% of participants have at least one risk factor for non-communicable diseases. The initiative, which provides blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol checks alongside medical consultations, supports the government's push for promotive and preventive healthcare. The company emphasises that collaboration is key to expanding early detection efforts across the country.

Hajj Ministry Reveals Rp4 Trillion Down Payment for 2027 Pilgrimage Services

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has requested parliamentary approval for a down payment of approximately Rp4 trillion to secure tent locations and basic services for the 2027 Hajj season. The funds are needed to meet Saudi Arabia's confirmation deadline for retaining existing tent sites used by Indonesian pilgrims. The ministry assured that the advance would be offset against future pilgrimage cost requests, not increasing the overall funding requirement.

Six Indramayu Accident Victims Still Undergoing Treatment

Six passengers from a fatal traffic collision in Indramayu, West Java, remain hospitalised with serious injuries. The accident, which involved a pick-up truck carrying a wedding party and two other trucks, claimed 12 lives. Local officials have visited the injured and bereaved families, calling for a thorough evaluation to prevent future tragedies.

US Inflation Remains a Threat as Energy Prices Surge Again

Inflation in the United States continues to pose a significant risk to the economy, with a recent rebound in energy prices threatening to undermine earlier progress. Despite expectations of a slight cooling in the headline Consumer Price Index for June, core inflation remains sticky, and depleted strategic oil reserves may fuel future price hikes. The Federal Reserve faces mounting pressure to consider further interest rate rises amid persistent price pressures and a new wave of cost increases driven by the global expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Minister Amran Recalls Meeting Bill Clinton: The Conversation Was All About Gayo Coffee

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman shared a memorable encounter with former US President Bill Clinton, who specifically discussed Gayo coffee from Aceh, highlighting its global recognition. The minister pledged government support for coffee farmers nationwide, including budget allocations for seedlings and direct export initiatives. The programme aims to significantly boost farmer incomes, with projections of up to Rp30 million per month for families cultivating two hectares.

Legal Counsel Demands Release of SMKN 1 Teluk Dalam Headmaster, Citing KUHAP Violations

The legal team for the headmaster of SMKN 1 Teluk Dalam is demanding his release, arguing that his detention violates the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP). The defence maintains that the alleged fictitious procurement of stationery did not occur, as all goods were delivered and used by the school. The case involves alleged corruption of school operational assistance funds (BOS) totalling Rp 1.4 billion.

Investment Certainty Still Hampered by RDTR, NSDIP Proposed as Solution

A leadership training group has proposed a National Spatial Data Infrastructure Platform (NSDIP) to integrate spatial planning and land data, aiming to boost investment certainty in Indonesia. Currently, only 11 per cent of required Detailed Spatial Plans (RDTR) are integrated with the national licensing system, causing potential location uncertainty and higher transaction costs. The platform is expected to connect digital RDTR, land data, and the risk-based licensing system to strengthen legal certainty for investors.

Minister urges transformation of sugarcane farmer cooperatives

Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantoro is pushing for the professionalisation of sugarcane farmer cooperatives to strengthen the national sugar industry ecosystem. The initiative involves collaboration with state-owned sugar producer PT PG Rajawali I and the LPDB Cooperative fund, aiming to improve governance, productivity, and farmer welfare. Deputy Agriculture Minister Sudaryono noted that Indonesia has achieved self-sufficiency in consumption sugar and is now targeting independence in refined sugar production.

KAI Daop 7 Madiun Prohibits Farmers from Burning Stubble Near Railway Tracks

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Daop 7 Madiun has issued a strict prohibition against farmers burning crop stubble near railway lines, citing a heightened risk of fires spreading to the tracks during the dry, windy season. The warning follows a recent incident where a stubble fire encroached upon the railway right-of-way, threatening train operations. KAI is intensifying patrols and public outreach while reminding residents that endangering railway safety is a criminal offence under Indonesian law.

Cardinal Quevedo Receives Inaugural Southeast Asian Harmony Award for Peace Efforts in Mindanao

Cardinal Orlando Beltran Quevedo of the Philippines has been awarded the first-ever Harmony in Diversity Award in Jakarta for his decades-long dedication to interfaith dialogue in the conflict-ridden Mindanao region. The award, initiated by Singapore's Temasek Foundation and the 5P Global Movement, recognises his 'Dialogue of Life' approach that fosters trust through daily social interaction. Organisers emphasised that the regional platform aims to build an ecosystem connecting change-makers across Southeast Asia to actively nurture social harmony.

Government Warns Banks to Brace for AI Cyber Risks

Canadian financial regulators have issued a formal warning to banks and insurers about the heightened cyber risks posed by advanced AI models such as Anthropic's Claude Mythos. The advisory, which follows similar moves by Japan and the UK, urges institutions to accelerate their identification, mitigation, and response strategies. The warning comes amid broader international concern, with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Fed Chair Jerome Powell also cautioning bank CEOs about the technology.

House Commission III Chair Explains Photo Op with Police Chief and Attorney General

Habiburokhman, Chair of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has clarified that a recent photograph with the National Police Chief and Attorney General was a deliberate gesture to demonstrate institutional harmony. The move comes amid public concern over potential friction between the two law enforcement bodies following a case involving a former senior prosecutor. He also expressed support for the Attorney General's Office handling the internal investigation to prevent inter-agency conflict.

Indonesian-Chinese Consortiums Appointed as Partners for Second Phase of Waste-to-Energy Projects

Several Indonesian and Chinese consortiums have been selected as partners to develop and manage the second phase of Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facilities across eight agglomeration areas in Indonesia. The appointments, announced by the Danantara Indonesia Investment Management Agency, include partnerships with major Chinese firms such as China Everbright Environment Group and Beijing GeoEnviron Engineering. Officials stated the involvement of leading global WtE companies will accelerate technology transfer and strengthen Indonesia's domestic waste management industry.

Minister Erick Prepares 100-Year Youth Blueprint at House Commission X Meeting

Youth and Sports Minister Erick Thohir has announced the development of a national youth blueprint designed to guide policy for the next century. Speaking during a working meeting with House Commission X, he stressed the need for a new strategy ahead of the 2028 centenary of the Youth Pledge. The minister also revealed a near tripling of the 2027 youth sector budget, framing the investment as crucial to harnessing Indonesia's demographic bonus.

Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs Comments on S&P Global Ratings Report

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has welcomed S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain the country's sovereign debt rating at BBB with a stable outlook. The ministry stated this investment-grade status reflects continued international confidence in the resilience of the national economy amid global uncertainty. Officials emphasised the need to strengthen governance and policy consistency to sustain this momentum.

Government to Reclaim 605 Hectares of Land with Inactive HGB Status

The Indonesian government is set to reclaim approximately 605 hectares of land with expired Right to Build (HGB) titles across various cities. The land, valued at an estimated Rp 21.5 trillion, will be repurposed to support the construction of vertical housing for low-income communities. The plots are spread across 15 provinces, including 65 hectares at 30 points in Jakarta.

Strait of Hormuz Escalation: Trump Imposes 20 Per Cent Tariff and Maritime Blockade on Iran

Tensions in the Middle East have surged after the United States launched a third consecutive night of airstrikes on Iran and President Donald Trump announced a maritime blockade coupled with a 20 per cent tariff on cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The fragile 60-day interim agreement has collapsed following a cruise missile attack on two Emirati tankers in Omani territorial waters, which killed one Indian crew member. World leaders fear the breakdown of the temporary ceasefire and the radical shift in US navigation policy could reignite a full-scale conflict and trigger severe global economic disruption.

Iran invites Indonesia's President to visit Tehran: MPR speaker

Iran has extended an official invitation to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to visit Tehran, conveyed through MPR Speaker Muzani during his attendance at the funeral of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Muzani, who served as a special envoy alongside Foreign Minister Sugiono, has relayed the invitation to the president, though no response has been confirmed. The diplomatic gesture follows the Indonesian delegation's visit to Mashhad to offer condolences over Khamenei's death.

Receiving Annotated Criminal Procedure Code, Adian Highlights Importance of Legal Certainty

House of Representatives (DPR) member Adian Napitupulu has described the launch of the Annotated Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) as a strategic step to strengthen legal certainty in Indonesia. The book, initiated by Commission III of the DPR, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of criminal procedure law implementation. Key law enforcement figures, including the National Police Chief and the Attorney General, attended the launch, underscoring its significance for the justice system.

Trump's 20% Tariff in the Strait of Hormuz Draws Ridicule and Criticism

US President Donald Trump's announcement of a 20% tariff on cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz, coinciding with a US naval blockade of Iran, has sparked international derision. Iran's Foreign Minister mocked the rate as excessive, while Brazilian President Lula da Silva likened the policy to piracy. The blockade, set to begin on 14 July, targets Iranian ports but claims to allow neutral shipping and humanitarian aid.

Issuers Indicated as HSC Will Not Enter Main Index

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has decided that issuers categorised as having high shareholding concentration (HSC) will be excluded from main indices such as LQ45 and IDX30. This follows the addition of a new price impact ratio criterion to the HSC calculation methodology. The evaluation will take place at the end of July, with 37 new issuers added to the HSC list, bringing the total to 51.

Deputy Minister Addresses Dilemma Over Village Cooperative Locations on Farmland

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono has responded to concerns about Village Cooperatives (KDKMP) being built on protected agricultural land in Central Java, stating that site selection is based on village consensus. He acknowledged the difficulty of finding suitable land, noting the dilemma of building on rice fields versus less populated non-agricultural areas. The minister emphasised that all decisions regarding cooperative locations are made through local community agreement.

Jakarta Agency Uncovers Suspected Rabies-Carrier Slaughtering Practice in Cengkareng

The West Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture Agency (Sudin KPKP) has discovered evidence of a suspected dog slaughtering operation at a food stall in Duri Kosambi, Cengkareng. Officers found decomposing canine remains wrapped in black plastic, raising strong suspicions of illegal butchering of animals that transmit rabies. The stall owner has denied involvement, claiming the carcass was deliberately dumped by unknown parties, while authorities are conducting further investigations with the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP).

Residents Welcome Concrete Reconstruction of Teluknaga-Dadap Road in Tangerang

Residents have welcomed the Banten provincial government's reconstruction of the heavily damaged Teluknaga-Dadap road in Tangerang Regency using concrete. Governor Andra Soni confirmed the project is a priority for the 2026 budget, with an initial allocation of Rp6 billion to repair 750 metres. The government aims to eventually rehabilitate the entire eight-kilometre stretch to improve traffic flow and reduce accidents.

Indonesian-Chinese Consortiums Appointed as Partners for Second Phase of Waste-to-Energy Projects

Several Indonesian and Chinese consortiums have been selected to develop and manage the second phase of Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facilities across eight agglomeration areas in Indonesia. The appointments, announced by the Danantara Indonesia Investment Management Agency, include partnerships with major Chinese firms such as China Everbright Environment Group and Beijing GeoEnviron Engineering. Officials stated the involvement of leading global waste-to-energy companies will accelerate technology transfer and strengthen Indonesia's domestic waste management ecosystem.

Why the US Will Never Truly Invade Iran

Military simulations suggest a US invasion of Iran would not result in a swift or easy victory due to the country's formidable geography, large population, and asymmetric defence strategy. Iran's 'Mosaic Defence' doctrine, combined with its network of regional allies, threatens to widen any conflict across the Middle East and disrupt global energy supplies. Experts argue the staggering economic cost and the impossibility of a stable occupation make a full-scale invasion the least likely military option.

Indonesia eyes Gayo coffee to drive exports, farmer incomes

The Indonesian government is prioritising the expansion of Gayo coffee exports from Aceh to boost farmer welfare and capitalise on its global reputation. Coffee cultivation in the region has already generated an economic value of around Rp4 trillion, with plantation expansion planned for next year. Officials aim to significantly increase overall plantation commodity exports from Rp40 trillion in 2025 to as much as Rp200 trillion.

Kediri Regency Government Commits to Ensuring Success of 'Sekolah Rakyat' Programme

The Kediri Regency Government has pledged full support for the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's School) programme, a central government initiative aimed at breaking the cycle of poverty through education. Regent Hanindhito Himawan Pramana stated the programme provides free formal education and boarding for children from extremely poor families. The integrated school in Plosoklaten has expanded to include primary and junior high levels, enrolling 248 new students this academic year.

South Sumatra Police Dismantle Illegal Mining Syndicate, Preventing Potential State Losses of Rp95.9 Billion

Police in South Sumatra have broken up an illegal coal mining syndicate operating within a PT Bukit Asam concession, arresting 11 suspects. The operation prevented potential state losses estimated at Rp95.9 billion, including Rp8.6 billion in lost royalties alone. Authorities are continuing to pursue the intellectual actors behind the illicit operation.

KPK Seizes Electronic Evidence from BPK Member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi's Home

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Jakarta residence of BPK member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi, seizing electronic evidence linked to an alleged bribery case involving the conditioning of audit results for Muara Enim Regency. The search is part of an ongoing investigation that has already seen multiple arrests, including the regent and several BPK officials. The case highlights concerns over the integrity of state financial audits and the KPK's continued crackdown on regional corruption.

Excuse of Dimas Who Murdered and Robbed Online Taxi Driver in Tangerang Over Wedding Costs

Police have revealed that Rahmat Dimas murdered an online taxi driver in Tangerang and stole his motorcycle, claiming he was under pressure to pay for his wedding. The suspect initially claimed he intended to take his own life but instead stabbed the victim when he awoke during the theft. Dimas was arrested after attempting to flee and resisting officers, who were forced to shoot him.

UI boosts village apparatus capability through 'Village Heads Enter Campus' programme

Universitas Indonesia (UI) has launched the 'Kepala Desa Masuk Kampus' (KDMK) programme to standardise the managerial and policy literacy competencies of village heads, 61 per cent of whom are high school graduates. The initiative, praised by the Home Affairs Minister, aims to bridge the urban-rural development gap and prevent rural depopulation. The programme's success will be measured by tangible community impact and social audits rather than mere certification.

Minister P2MI: UN Committee Recommendations Strengthen Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection

Minister for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (P2MI) Mukhtarudin stated that recommendations from the UN Committee on Migrant Workers (CMW) provide momentum to bolster protections for Indonesian migrant workers. The concluding observations document contains 33 substantive recommendations, including human rights-based migration governance and combating human trafficking. Indonesia is obligated to report on its follow-up actions by 1 January 2028.

Pramono Inspects LRT Construction, Waskita Karya Guarantees On-Time Completion

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has inspected the construction of the LRT Jakarta Phase 1B, a Rp 4.1 trillion project connecting Velodrome to Manggarai. State-owned construction firm Waskita Karya has assured that the project is on track, having recently completed a critical steel box girder installation over active railway lines without disrupting services. The project, which has recorded 7.5 million safe working hours, is scheduled for completion in August and aims to improve urban connectivity and support the government's net zero emission targets.

Online Gambling Cases Still Rampant, OJK Evaluates Gaps That Must Be Addressed

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has identified critical gaps in the fight against online gambling, notably the lack of real-time data exchange between government agencies. Despite blocking tens of thousands of accounts, reports of suspicious transactions linked to gambling surged by 260 percent in 2025. The OJK is calling for systemic improvements to close loopholes exploited by increasingly cunning financial criminals.

KPK to Investigate Alleged Rp100 Million Payment to Miftah Maulana from Railway Project

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) will investigate allegations that Miftah Maulana, a former presidential special envoy, received Rp100 million from a railway project corruption case. The allegation emerged during a trial in Semarang, where a convicted official confirmed Miftah's name was on a list of recipients of funds from the project. The KPK stated it will analyse the trial facts to determine if the money is linked to criminal activity and whether asset recovery is warranted.

Through the Cosmetics Industry, Callum Champions Local Workforce Empowerment

Indonesian body care brand Callum is shifting the measure of business success from mere profit to tangible community impact by prioritising the employment of local workers. The company integrates local labour across its entire production chain, from raw material selection to distribution. This approach reflects a broader philosophy that industrial growth in a region should directly enhance the welfare of the surrounding community.

Delayed Operations: The Hurdles Facing Amman's Smelter Project

PT Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara has detailed the technical setbacks that delayed its copper smelter in West Sumbawa, including a leak and a minor fire. The disruptions occurred during the ramp-up phase in early 2025, requiring extensive repairs. The facility is now fully operational, processing all concentrate from the Batu Hijau mine, though a planned shutdown is scheduled for late 2026 or early 2027 to replace outstanding equipment.

Trump Approves Saudi Military Strike Against Houthis in Yemen

President Donald Trump has reportedly given full backing to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a military strike against Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen, marking a significant shift in regional security dynamics. The Saudi airstrike on Sanaa airport and subsequent Houthi retaliation represent the most serious cross-border escalation since an unofficial truce began in 2022, threatening to unravel four years of relative calm. The renewed conflict risks exacerbating regional tensions and widening the scope of hostilities between the United States and Iran.

Maluku Police Confirm Security Readiness for President's Visit to Masela Block

Maluku Regional Police have confirmed that comprehensive security measures are in place for President Prabowo Subianto's visit to the Tanimbar Islands on 16 July 2026. The visit is for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Masela Block National Strategic Project, a development deemed crucial for strengthening national energy security and boosting investor confidence. A multi-layered security system involving the military, presidential security forces, and local stakeholders has been prepared.

Mampang Road to Santa Remains Closed After Truck Gets Stuck Under Tendean Footbridge

The South Jakarta Transportation Agency continues to close Jalan Mampang towards Pasar Santa following an incident where a truck carrying heavy equipment became lodged under the Tendean pedestrian bridge. The collision caused severe structural damage, forcing a complete dismantling of the bridge, with the Jakarta provincial government estimating losses in the billions of rupiah. Traffic diversions remain in place as authorities manage congestion, and the driver is being investigated for alleged negligence.

PDIP Legislator Affirms Asset Forfeiture Bill is on Track: We Are Pushing to Finalise It Soon

A legislator from the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has confirmed that deliberations on the Asset Forfeiture Bill are proceeding swiftly, with the House of Representatives continuing to gather input from legal experts and academics. The House Commission III has dismissed circulating rumours that the bill is being rejected, stating that the shift to a House-initiated bill is a strategy to accelerate its enactment. The bill remains a priority in the 2025-2026 National Legislation Programme.

KAEF Integrates End-to-End Services to Eliminate TB by 2030

State-owned pharmaceutical company PT Kimia Farma (KAEF) is leveraging its fully integrated ecosystem, from raw material production to clinical services, to support the government's target of eliminating tuberculosis by 2030. The firm highlighted its comprehensive portfolio, including fixed-dose combination drugs, modern production facilities, and a vast network of over 1,000 pharmacies and 350 clinics. This end-to-end value chain aims to ensure consistent drug distribution, support diagnostic infrastructure, and integrate patient data with the Ministry of Health's national TB information system.

Mampang-Santa Road Still Closed After Truck Gets Stuck Under Tendean Footbridge

A section of road in South Jakarta remains closed after a truck carrying heavy equipment struck and severely damaged the Tendean pedestrian footbridge. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning when the driver, reportedly distracted by his mobile phone, misjudged the height of his load. Authorities are managing traffic diversions in the busy area while structural assessments are carried out.

DPR Urges Police to Investigate Fatal Bullying and Burning of Three Students at Lombok Islamic Boarding School

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has urged law enforcement to thoroughly investigate a case of bullying and arson at a Lombok Islamic boarding school that left one student dead and two others injured. The vice-chairman of Commission X called for no protection for the perpetrators, one of whom is allegedly the son of the school's owner. The victims' families, accompanied by a legal team, have sought justice in a hearing with Commission III.

MBG Kitchen Association Complains to DPR: We Get Blamed When Problems Arise

The Association of National Nutrition Agency (BGN) Partners has complained to the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) about unfair treatment in the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme. They claim that while they provide all the facilities, they are solely blamed when problems occur, even if the fault lies with kitchen managers. The DPR has expressed concern and called for a comprehensive evaluation of the programme's governance.

Lawyer Challenges Police to Reveal Entrepreneur Behind Money Found in de Clan Brankas

The lawyer for a suspect in a case involving money discovered at the de Clan restaurant has challenged Indonesian police to publicly name the entrepreneur who owns the funds. Handika Honggowongso claims the money, found in a President-brand suitcase, was intended for infrastructure development in East Kalimantan in cooperation with the government. He stated he did not dare reveal the entrepreneur's identity himself.

EU Launches €883.6 Million Fund for Gaza Recovery

The European Commission has launched the Team Gaza Initiative, a coordinated funding package worth €883.6 million to support the early recovery of Gaza. The funds will target essential services including water, sanitation, rubble clearance, health, and energy. The initiative brings together the European Commission, the European Investment Bank, the World Bank, and several EU member states, with Australia and Canada also expressing interest in joining.

PLN UPK Flores Implements B50 Biodiesel at Maumere Gas Engine Power Plant

State electricity firm PLN has begun using B50 biodiesel, a blend of 50 per cent palm-based fuel and 50 per cent diesel, at its 40 MW gas engine power plant in Maumere, Flores. The move is part of the company's support for the government's energy transition programme and aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence. PLN has implemented technical adjustments and mitigation measures to ensure the new fuel does not disrupt the reliability of the Flores power system.

Nunukan Residents Threaten to Leave Indonesia Over Paralysed Road Access

Residents of Krayan District in Nunukan, North Kalimantan, have protested at the provincial parliament, threatening to secede from Indonesia if the government fails to repair a vital provincial ring road that has completely broken down. The road's paralysis has crippled the local economy, causing soaring prices and logistical nightmares, with the provincial parliament pledging to force the allocation of funds in the revised 2026 budget.

The Controversial Trail of Gus Miftah: From Claiming Kiai Lineage to Alleged Graft

Miftah Maulana Habiburrahman, a prominent Indonesian preacher, is under scrutiny after being implicated in a railway project corruption trial. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating allegations that he received Rp100 million related to a double-track railway project. This adds to previous controversies, including a disputed claim of descent from a revered Javanese cleric.

Tendean Footbridge Demolition Causes Extended Traffic Chaos in South Jakarta

The demolition of a damaged pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean continues to cause significant traffic disruption in South Jakarta, with several roads towards Blok M remaining closed. The operation has led to severe congestion stretching to Jalan Gatot Subroto and Jalan MT Haryono, while TransJakarta bus services on Corridor 13 have been delayed and rerouted.

6.8 million citizens have registered SIM cards with biometric verification

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, announced that 6.8 million people registered their SIM cards using facial recognition biometrics between January and July 2026. The initiative aims to bolster identity data security and prevent digital crimes involving personal data misuse. The system cross-checks data with the civil registry without allowing mobile operators to store customer biometric data.

OJK Responds to Constitutional Court Ruling on Pension Benefit Payments, Here Are the Latest Rules

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a new policy in response to Constitutional Court rulings regarding pension benefit payments. The policy allows for lump-sum or periodic payments of benefits derived from severance pay and service awards. Pension funds must obtain OJK approval for rule amendments before implementing the new payment options.

Surabaya Fraud Recidivist Indicted Again Over IDR 18 Billion Vehicle Registration Investment Scam

A repeat fraud offender in Surabaya has been indicted for allegedly swindling an investor out of IDR 18 billion through a fictitious vehicle registration (BBN) investment scheme. The defendant, Jeremy Gunadi, is accused of luring the victim with promises of quick returns and using falsified invoices, while claiming partnerships with 16 major companies that were later proven to be non-existent. The defence argues that IDR 8 billion has already been returned and that the case is a civil business dispute rather than a criminal matter.

NTB Police Chief Promises to Evaluate Central Lombok Investigators in Santri Burning Case

West Nusa Tenggara Police Chief Inspector General Kalingga Rendra Raharja has pledged to follow up on a recommendation from the House of Representatives to evaluate investigators handling the fatal burning of three santri. The case, initially managed by the Central Lombok Police, has been taken over by the provincial police. Two suspects, including the head of the Islamic boarding school, have been named in connection with the incident.

Tangerang Murder: Police Say Suspect Was Pressured by Wedding Costs

Police in Jakarta have revealed that a 25-year-old man arrested for the fatal stabbing of an online motorcycle taxi driver in Tangerang was motivated by financial pressure to fund his wedding. The suspect, identified as RD, reportedly intended to take his own life before spontaneously attacking the victim to steal his motorcycle. He now faces multiple charges under Indonesia's new Criminal Code.

Three Bank 9 Jambi Hackers Who Stole IDR 144 Billion Arrested, Bulgarian Hacker Network Involved

Police in Jambi have arrested three Indonesian nationals for their involvement in a major cyber heist that drained IDR 144.82 billion from customer accounts at Bank 9 Jambi. The operation, which affected 6,609 customers, was allegedly orchestrated by a network of hackers from Bulgaria. Authorities have managed to seize IDR 18.9 billion of the stolen funds, which had been converted into cryptocurrency and transferred to overseas digital wallets.

Economist: S&P Global's Retention of Indonesia's Rating is Positive News

CORE Indonesia economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet views S&P Global's decision to maintain Indonesia's BBB rating with a stable outlook as positive, preserving investor confidence. However, he cautions that the optimism partly relies on external commodity price factors rather than domestic structural reforms. Manilet highlights the need to address low tax-to-GDP ratios and ensure consistent policy implementation to strengthen the country's fiscal foundation.

NAVI-HF Innovation: AI Technology for Heart Failure Detection by Indonesian Doctor

An Indonesian cardiologist has developed NAVI-HF, an AI-powered auscultation device designed to detect residual pulmonary congestion in heart failure patients. The portable tool analyses chest sounds within a minute to identify high-risk patients before hospital discharge, potentially reducing readmission rates. The innovation aims to support telemedicine and home-based monitoring, easing the burden on Indonesia's healthcare system.

Police investigate motive behind bomb blast in Padang

Police in Padang, West Sumatra, are investigating a bomb explosion at a school, allegedly carried out by a 17-year-old student. Initial findings suggest the motive was linked to the perpetrator being a victim of bullying. The student reportedly learned bomb-making online and assembled the device using materials purchased from online shops.

Environment Minister Receives Requests for Waste Management Assistance in West Sumatra

Indonesia's Environment Minister has acknowledged urgent requests from several West Sumatran districts for help tackling waste management issues. He indicated that a revised ministry budget could allow a response within a month, stressing that waste is a national problem requiring serious, coordinated intervention. The minister also highlighted that 74 per cent of national waste remains unmanaged and most landfill sites still use hazardous open dumping methods.

Manggala Agni Personnel and Equipment Standards Evaluated for Forest Fire Preparedness

The Ministry of Forestry is reviewing the minimum personnel and equipment standards for the Manggala Agni firefighting brigade to enhance safety and effectiveness in tackling forest and land fires. The evaluation includes assessing the need for weather modification operations and groundwater level monitoring in fire-prone regions. The minister stressed that budget allocations must be calculated precisely to meet the real needs of field officers.

Bittime launches crypto futures trading service after CFX-OJK approval

Indonesian digital asset trader Bittime has launched a crypto futures service after securing a licence from PT Central Finansial X under OJK supervision. The platform initially offers 49 trading pairs with up to 25x leverage, aiming to provide a regulated and competitive alternative for the country's 22.4 million digital asset consumers. The launch aligns with OJK's expanded regulatory framework for digital asset derivatives and its broader financial sector technology roadmap.

Purbaya Welcomes S&P's Retention of Indonesia's Rating, Vows Fiscal Discipline

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has welcomed S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain Indonesia's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook. He stated that the assessment reflects international confidence in the country's economic policies and pledged to continue strengthening fiscal management. The government also reported that Indonesia's economy grew by 5.11 per cent in 2025, supported by household consumption and investment.

UGM's FK-KMK Hosts 2026 Summer Course on Health Issues in Disaster Management

The Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) is holding a Summer Course 2026 focusing on interprofessional healthcare in disaster management. The programme aims to address coordination challenges during disasters by bringing together 81 students from various disciplines and countries. It features international speakers and field visits to strengthen collaborative capacity in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

Indonesian govt targets villages to boost creative economy

The Indonesian government is advancing its Creative Village Activation Program as part of a broader 2026-2045 Creative Economy Master Plan (Rindekraf) to empower local communities, including those in disadvantaged and border areas. The initiative aims to develop local talent, increase product value, and expand market access, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to make cooperatives a pillar of economic revival. Drafted through an evidence-based, participatory process involving 35 ministries, the master plan seeks to transform the creative economy into a new engine for national growth and job creation.

Legal Counsel for Reported Parties Denies Intimidation of Late Dr Icha

Lawyers representing four individuals, including three members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives, have denied allegations of intimidating the late Dr Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni. They described the incident at RS Leona hospital as a tense discussion sparked by a family's panic over a snakebite victim's treatment. The legal team insists the matter was resolved amicably and has urged the public to allow the police investigation to proceed professionally.

DPR Approves Proposed Rp4 Trillion Down Payment for 2027 Hajj

The House of Representatives' Commission VIII has approved a proposed down payment of Rp4 trillion for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. The funds are urgently required to secure tent accommodation in Saudi Arabia ahead of a looming deadline. Failure to make the payment could result in Indonesia's quota being revoked and redistributed to other nations.

Prolonged Dry Season Threatens Cianjur's Rice Bowl, Local Government Strengthens Mitigation

The Cianjur Regency government is taking steps to mitigate the impact of the dry season on its key agricultural areas, which are vital for regional food security. Officials are focusing on normalising irrigation channels and proposing upgrades to provincial irrigation networks to optimise water distribution. The local government hopes the dry season will not be prolonged, as it could disrupt the region's production targets and the national food self-sufficiency programme.

Wonosobo Food Agency Subsidises 20 Tonnes of Maize for Micro Livestock Farmers

The Wonosobo Food, Agriculture and Fisheries Agency has distributed 20 tonnes of subsidised dry shelled maize to 40 micro-scale poultry farmers to help stabilise feed costs. The maize, priced at Rp5,500 per kilogram compared to the market rate of Rp6,500, was sourced from the Central Java provincial budget. The programme aims to reduce production costs, which are dominated by feed, and maintain the stability of the local egg and chicken meat supply.

Australia Allocates Additional Funding to Reduce Visa Processing Times

The Australian government has announced extra budget funding aimed at reducing visa decision wait times, according to a senior official. The move comes amid a surge in applications and follows Australia's recent reclassification of Indonesia to a higher risk level for student visas, which now requires stricter documentation.

Transjakarta Adjusts Corridor 13 Route After Truck Hits Pedestrian Bridge

Transjakarta has implemented temporary route adjustments and operational changes for Corridor 13 and several feeder routes following a truck collision with a pedestrian bridge (JPO) in South Jakarta. The incident caused severe traffic congestion, prompting the bus operator to terminate services early at Rawa Barat bus stop. Passengers are advised to check official channels for updates and anticipate delays.

Examining Investment Concentration Risks Behind the Danantara State-Owned MI Merger

The merger of four state-owned investment managers under Danantara is set to create a dominant entity controlling nearly 20% of Indonesia's mutual fund market, with combined assets under management exceeding Rp130 trillion. Market observers have flagged potential risks of investment concentration and unfair competition, urging the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to ensure a level playing field. Danantara's COO maintains the consolidation aims to optimise state asset productivity rather than stifle competition.

IPB Expert Stresses Discipline in Vaccinating Hunting Dogs Against Rabies

A veterinary expert from IPB University has called for stricter discipline in vaccinating hunting dogs against rabies following a tragic incident in Bogor. Dr Agus Wijaya highlighted that inconsistent vaccination and myths about performance decline are major challenges. He urged responsible pet ownership and stronger collaboration between the government and communities to prevent future zoonotic threats.

Civil Society Supports Prabowo's Call for Law Enforcement Introspection Amid Public Distrust

Civil society groups in Surabaya have rallied behind President Prabowo Subianto's recent call for government officials to self-correct, urging the East Java High Prosecutor's Office to end the criminalisation of administrative and business disputes. The demonstrators argued that aggressive prosecution tactics are disrupting the investment climate and demanded that investigators focus on proving malicious intent rather than penalising administrative errors. The protest comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the Attorney General's Office following the search and asset seizure of a former senior prosecutor.

West Java Police Identify 141 Illegal U-Turns on Pantura Route Following Fatal Indramayu Crash

Following a recent fatal accident, West Java Regional Police have identified 141 illegal U-turn points along the Pantura route in Indramayu. Authorities plan to coordinate with relevant agencies to close or regulate these hazardous, unpermitted turnarounds to improve road safety. The police are also specifically investigating the legal status of the U-turn near the site of the recent deadly collision.

Pertamina Drilling Expands Non-Rig Services in Prabumulih Field

PT Pertamina Drilling Services Indonesia has successfully completed its first matrix acidizing operation at the Prabumulih Field, marking a significant expansion of its non-rig services portfolio. The operation, conducted with PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan, aims to boost well productivity and supports the company's strategy to become an integrated energy services partner. This development aligns with national efforts to enhance oil and gas production and energy security.

OJK: Eradicating Online Gambling Requires More Than Just Blocking

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that combating online gambling must go beyond simply blocking websites and accounts, requiring a comprehensive approach that dismantles the entire illicit chain. The authority highlighted the need for stronger inter-agency integration, real-time data sharing, and the use of artificial intelligence to identify suspicious transactions and mule accounts. The OJK also warned that individuals involved in buying or selling bank accounts will face severe consequences, including being placed on a financial blacklist.

Early Detection of Non-Communicable Diseases Remains a Challenge, Screening Reaches 15,000 Residents

A nationwide health screening programme in Indonesia has found that approximately 63 per cent of over 15,000 participants have at least one risk factor for non-communicable diseases, highlighting a significant gap in early detection. The initiative, run by Dexa Medica, revealed high rates of hypertension, cholesterol, and blood sugar issues among those tested. The findings underscore the need for greater public awareness and collaborative efforts to promote preventative healthcare.

NasDem Youth Wing Commits to Becoming a Cross-Professional Creative Hub

The NasDem Party's youth wing, Garda Pemuda NasDem (GPND), has pledged to transform into an inclusive hub for young Indonesians from various professional backgrounds. Chairman Prananda Surya Paloh stated the organisation aims to facilitate contributions to the nation beyond practical politics, focusing on real-world action. The commitment was announced ahead of the GPND's second congress, scheduled for July 2026.

Indonesia weighs nationwide urban renewal, new housing areas

The Indonesian government is exploring a nationwide urban renewal initiative and the development of new residential areas, drawing on Yogyakarta's experience in urban planning. The plan, discussed with Governor Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, aims to modernise cities and improve access to affordable housing. This effort is part of a broader transformational agenda that includes the Three Million Houses program and the Clean Indonesia movement.

Minister Purbaya Responds to Judicial Review of Danantara Patriot Bonds

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated the government will respect the legal process following a judicial review filed against the Patriot Bond scheme at the Constitutional Court. The challenge, brought by the Anti-Money Laundering Danantara Coalition, argues that provisions in the Financial Sector Law grant excessive legal immunity to bondholders. The government has prepared legal experts to defend the policy.

East Jakarta Mobile Veterinary Clinic Equipped with Ultrasound and Blood Testing Facilities

The East Jakarta Food Security, Marine and Agriculture (KPKP) Sub-agency has launched a mobile veterinary clinic equipped with advanced diagnostic tools including ultrasound, blood and urine testing, and a surgical suite. The service, which began operations this week, aims to bring affordable animal healthcare closer to residents by rotating through various sub-districts. A detailed tariff structure has been published, with consultation fees starting at Rp35,000 and sterilisation procedures costing up to Rp700,000 for dogs.

Trump Proposes 20% Fee for Hormuz Strait Passage: How Would the Mechanism Work?

US President Donald Trump has proposed charging commercial vessels a 20% fee on their cargo in exchange for military protection through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade route controlled by Iran. The controversial plan, announced amid heightened regional conflict, has sparked intense debate over its financial viability and legality under international maritime law. Experts suggest the exorbitant cost would cripple global trade economics, while the proposal echoes historical tolls abolished by the US itself.

Paylater Users Continue to Rise, OJK Urges Public to Choose Licensed Services

The use of digital paylater services in Indonesia is growing rapidly, with financial inclusion reaching 80.51 percent in 2025. Industry players and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) are urging the public to only use licensed and supervised platforms. Consumers are also advised to understand the terms, protect personal data, and borrow within their repayment capacity.

Carbon Project Development Requires Partnerships and Digital Infrastructure

The development of Indonesia's carbon market ecosystem hinges on collaboration between project developers and technology providers to meet international standards and attract financing. This was highlighted at a strategic forum where PT ESGIN Global Partners and PT Agraus Resources signed a Heads of Agreement to advance sustainable projects. The partnership aims to integrate AI, digital MRV, and blockchain to enhance project transparency and credibility.

Child Hero Festival Held to Strengthen Child Protection Ecosystem

Save the Children Indonesia is organising a 'Child Hero Festival' in Jakarta to mark 50 years of advocating for children's rights, amid ongoing challenges such as violence in the home and educational poverty. The event aims to foster cross-sector collaboration to build a more inclusive environment for Indonesian children. Recent incidents, including a child suicide in NTT and food poisoning cases, underscore the urgent need for stronger child protection measures.

High political costs trigger corruption among regional heads, says analyst

A political expert from Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta argues that the exorbitant cost of regional elections is a primary driver of corruption among local leaders. Ridho Al-Hamdi stated that expensive campaigns create 'political debts' that often lead to the misuse of regional budgets. He urged the government and parliament to use the momentum of electoral law revisions to reform political party funding and campaign mechanisms.

Ministry of Public Works builds dam in Buru, Maluku to boost food production

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works is constructing the Way Apu Dam in Buru Regency, Maluku, targeting completion by 2027. The dam aims to irrigate 10,000 hectares of farmland, transforming the region into a key food production centre to supply local needs and the Masela Block national strategic project. Despite technical challenges and budget constraints causing slight delays, the project is expected to significantly enhance rice harvests and provide additional benefits including flood control and hydroelectric power.

Indonesia aims to boost global Gayo coffee supply via major expansion

The Indonesian government is distributing 17 million coffee seedlings across 17,000 hectares in Aceh to revitalise the prized Gayo coffee sector. The initiative seeks to overcome limited export capacities caused by underperforming yields and aging trees. The Agriculture Minister indicated that further development funds could follow if the current phase is successfully managed, aiming to cement Aceh's status as a modern global cultivation hub.

Vietnam–Japan: Strategic Trust Without an Alliance

Vietnam and Japan have cultivated a deep strategic partnership built on economic integration and political trust, deliberately avoiding a formal military alliance. Japanese investment, now nearing €72 billion, focuses on supply-chain resilience and advanced manufacturing, complementing Vietnam's policy of strategic autonomy. The relationship is framed as a model for middle-power cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, strengthening regional stability without forcing Hanoi into bloc politics.

Oral Tradition as a Guardian of Collective Memory

This article explores the vital role of oral tradition in preserving the collective memory and cultural identity of the multi-ethnic community in Pasaman Barat. It examines how various forms of oral tradition, such as proverbs, pantun, and folklore, function not merely as entertainment but as key instruments for social education, moral guidance, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. The piece argues that these verbal arts serve as a bridge between historical experience and contemporary social life, reinforcing solidarity and local identity amidst social change.

Motorcycle Thief Who Murdered Ride-Hailing Driver in Tangerang Shot During Arrest

Police in Tangerang have shot and arrested a man suspected of murdering a ride-hailing driver and stealing his motorcycle. The suspect, Rahmat Dimas, was shot after allegedly resisting arrest at his hideout in North Jakarta. The victim was stabbed in the neck while sleeping at a driver base camp.

Gianyar DPRD Approves 2025 Budget Accountability Report, Bupati Highlights Financial Governance

The Gianyar Regency Legislative Council (DPRD) has approved the 2025 Regional Budget (APBD) accountability report during a plenary session. Bupati I Made Agus Mahayastra emphasised the government's responsibility to the public regarding financial management and pledged to implement all council feedback. The approval will be formalised into a regional regulation aimed at improving public services, development quality, and community welfare.

Safe Spaces: To Expose or to Silence?

Verbal sexual harassment in Indonesian educational institutions remains a persistent issue, often overshadowed by institutional efforts to protect their reputation. Victims frequently suffer prolonged psychological trauma and choose silence due to fear of social pressure and a lack of faith in transparent handling processes. The article questions whether 'safe spaces' in education truly serve victims or inadvertently protect perpetrators to maintain institutional image.

Is Blood Type O More Prone to High Cholesterol? IPB Expert Explains

A lecturer from IPB University has addressed public concerns regarding the link between blood type O and high cholesterol, stating that scientific evidence remains inconclusive. While some studies suggest a correlation, others find no connection, and the expert emphasises that lifestyle factors play a far more significant role in determining cholesterol levels. The public is advised to focus on healthy living and regular medical check-ups rather than worrying about their blood type.

GP Parmusi Discusses Action-Based Character Building, Prepares Collaboration with Youth and Sports Ministry

The youth wing of the Indonesian Muslim Brotherhood (GP Parmusi) held an audience with the Ministry of Youth and Sports to strengthen synergy in youth capacity development. Discussions focused on character building centred on three values: tenacity, patriotism, and empathy. GP Parmusi expressed its commitment to collaborating on concrete action-based programmes to empower young people as agents of change and future leaders.

Kapolri's Meetings with Attorney General and TNI Chief Hailed as Statesmanlike Gesture

Political analyst Boni Hargens has praised National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo's recent meetings with the Attorney General and the TNI Commander as a statesmanlike effort to maintain institutional stability. The visits are seen as a strategic move to ease potential friction between law enforcement bodies amid a high-profile money laundering investigation involving a former senior prosecutor. Hargens argued the gesture prioritises national stability over sectoral ego.

Mataram Police Arrest Five in Udayana Machete Attack, Four Are Minors

Police in Mataram have arrested five suspects, including four minors, for a violent machete and sickle attack on Jalan Udayana that left a man injured. The assault, which was captured on CCTV and went viral, was reportedly a case of mistaken identity as the perpetrators were intoxicated and looking for a different target. The incident has sparked fear among local residents, who now feel unsafe using the popular public area at night.

Instagram Profits from Heinous Content, Meta Boss's Conduct Exposed

A BBC investigation has revealed that Instagram profited from advertisements promoting child sexual abuse material in India, sparking outrage and government intervention. The findings highlight the platform's failure to detect policy violations, with a former executive stating that Meta's algorithms are designed to maximise profit rather than block harmful content. This comes as Meta was already found guilty in a US court of misleading the public about child safety on its platforms.

Home Affairs Minister: Competent Village Heads Key to Independent Villages and Curbing Urbanisation

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has stated that competent village leadership is essential for creating self-sufficient villages and stemming the flow of urbanisation. Speaking at the opening of the second batch of the Village Heads Enter Campus programme at the University of Indonesia, he highlighted that 56 percent of Indonesia's population currently resides in urban areas. The programme aims to standardise the skills of village heads from diverse backgrounds to improve village management and contribute to national development.

IDX Revises HSC Method, 37 New Issuers Added to List

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has revised its methodology for identifying shares with high shareholding concentration (HSC) by introducing a price impact ratio criterion. This change has resulted in 37 additional issuers being flagged, bringing the total to 51. The IDX confirmed that shares identified under the new HSC criteria will be excluded from major indices such as LQ45, IDX30, and IDX80 during the next quarterly evaluation.

Hundreds of High-Achieving Students Receive Roberto Rocca Scholarships

Tenaris has awarded Roberto Rocca scholarships to 360 high-achieving students in Cilegon and Batam, reinforcing its commitment to education and local talent development in Indonesia. The initiative, running since 2014, has now supported over 2,000 students and includes additional donations such as computers for schools. Officials from the Italian Embassy and local government praised the programme's role in creating long-term value and preparing a globally competitive workforce.

Central Jakarta Police Chief Visits District Prosecutor's Office to Strengthen Synergy for More Transparent Law Enforcement

The Central Jakarta Metro Police Chief visited the Central Jakarta District Prosecutor's Office to reinforce inter-agency coordination. Both institutions committed to enhancing a professional, transparent, and accountable criminal justice system. The meeting aimed to improve public trust and ensure legal certainty for the community.

Children need support to adapt to new school environments

A child psychologist has emphasised the crucial role of parents and teachers in helping children adapt to new school settings, advocating for a gradual preparation process rather than last-minute adjustments. The advice aligns with the Education Ministry's plans for a welcoming and safe school orientation programme for the 2026/2027 academic year.

Bekasi Metro Police Arrest Stepmother Suspected of Abusing Toddler Until Comatose

Police in Bekasi, West Java, have arrested a 19-year-old woman, DM, on suspicion of repeatedly physically abusing her four-year-old stepdaughter, QSH, leaving the toddler in a coma. The abuse is alleged to have occurred from May to early July 2026 while the child's biological father was working overseas. Authorities are pursuing charges under Indonesia's Child Protection Law, with penalties enhanced because the suspect is the victim's stepmother.

Padang Student Brought Homemade Bomb to School After Being Bullied, Inspired by Jakarta Case

A 17-year-old student in Padang, West Sumatra, brought a homemade bomb to his school, MAN 3 Padang, after allegedly suffering from psychological distress due to bullying. Police revealed the teenager learned to assemble the device online and was inspired by a similar incident at a Jakarta high school in 2025. No casualties were reported, and authorities are focusing on the student's psychological recovery while investigating his involvement in online groups discussing explosives.

Hoax! Minister Bahlil Did Not Mandate TV Tax Starting 2027

A Facebook post falsely claimed that Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia mandated a tax on television ownership starting in 2027. The accompanying photo was taken from an old context regarding Freeport divestment negotiations. The government confirms there is no new regulation imposing such a levy, which was abolished decades ago.

Undip targets five international students per study programme to boost world ranking

Diponegoro University (Undip) is aiming to enrol at least five international students in each of its study programmes as part of a strategy to break into the world's top 500 universities. The university currently hosts around 200 international students and plans to double its intake next year, including establishing a dedicated international undergraduate medical class. A visiting Malaysian academic stressed that building a strong academic culture should take precedence over merely chasing ranking metrics.

TransJakarta Reroutes Corridor 13 Following Tendean Footbridge Demolition

TransJakarta has temporarily adjusted the route for Corridor 13 due to severe traffic congestion caused by a lorry striking a pedestrian footbridge on Jalan Tendean, South Jakarta. The service is being truncated at Halte Rawa Barat, with several feeder routes also affected. The operator is coordinating with authorities to restore normal operations as soon as the damaged bridge is cleared.

Hoax! Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi announces pension fund assistance

A Facebook post claiming Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi announced a pension fund assistance programme is false. The video used in the post was manipulated using artificial intelligence to fabricate his voice. The original footage was from a press conference where he discussed government programmes, not pension aid.

Sorong Deputy Mayor Pushes for Acceleration of National Food Programme Through Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih

Sorong's Deputy Mayor, Anshar Karim, is urging the acceleration of the national food priority programme by strengthening the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) initiative. Progress was reported across nine sub-districts, though the Saoka location faces community resistance being addressed through dialogue. The local government is also seeking central support for cooperative infrastructure to bolster food distribution and stabilise prices in the region.

Industry Ministry Strengthens Chemical Governance to Support Indonesia's OECD Accession

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is intensifying efforts to align its chemical management regulations with OECD standards through a fact-finding mission in Jakarta. The initiative aims to not only facilitate the country's accession to the organisation but also to build a safer, more competitive, and sustainable national chemical industry. Discussions covered policy harmonisation, illegal pesticide trade, and laboratory practices, with the sector showing strong export growth of 16.83 percent in the first quarter of 2026.

Forest and Land Fires Scorch 7.5 Hectares of Peatland in Rokan Hilir

Firefighting teams in Rokan Hilir, Riau, are working to extinguish a forest and land fire that has burned 7.5 hectares of peatland. While open flames have been subdued, smoke continues to billow from several points, requiring ongoing cooling operations. Authorities have also detected a new fire spot in the Bangko sub-district, prompting the deployment of additional response teams.

Defence Minister Sjafrie Hosts Finnish and South Korean Envoys for Strategic Talks

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin held separate meetings with the ambassadors of Finland and South Korea in Jakarta to discuss strengthening bilateral defence cooperation. The talks focused on cybersecurity, maritime domain awareness, and the acceleration of joint military projects.

Harmony in Diversity Award aims to strengthen Southeast Asian leadership

The Harmony in Diversity Award, launched by Temasek Foundation and 5P Global Movement, seeks to honour individuals fostering social cohesion in Southeast Asia. Organisers emphasise that harmony requires active dialogue and leadership, not just passive coexistence. Filipino Cardinal Orlando Beltran Quevedo will be the first recipient for his decades-long peacebuilding and interfaith work in Mindanao.

Generator Fire on Pinisi Ship in Labuan Bajo, No Casualties Reported

A fire broke out on a portable generator aboard the tourist vessel Somerdive while it was anchored off Labuan Bajo's Kampung Ujung seafood area. The head of the local port authority confirmed the ship itself was not damaged and there were no casualties. A full inspection of the vessel will be conducted by a marine inspector.

Probolinggo City Government Continues Cheap Food Markets Until Prices Stabilise

The Probolinggo City Government in East Java is continuing its Gerakan Pangan Murah (Cheap Food Movement) programme to stabilise staple food prices. The initiative offers essential commodities like rice, sugar, and cooking oil below traditional market rates. Officials stated the programme will persist until market prices return to normal, balancing consumer relief with the interests of local traders.

NasDem Youth Wing Transformation: Prananda Surya Paloh Prepares Inclusive Hub for Cross-Professional Youths

Prananda Surya Paloh, Chairman of Garda Pemuda NasDem, has announced a strategic transformation ahead of the organisation's second congress in July 2026. The youth wing aims to become an inclusive 'big house' for young Indonesians from various professional backgrounds, moving beyond practical politics. The initiative seeks to foster national contribution through creativity and professional development, crystallising under the congress theme 'Independent Youth, Sovereign Nation'.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mocks Trump's Proposed 20% Tariff on Hormuz Shipping

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has derided President Donald Trump's plan to impose a 20% tariff on cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz, asserting Iran's role as the waterway's traditional guardian. Trump announced the levy alongside a renewed blockade of Iranian ports, claiming the US would act as the strait's protector. The exchange heightens tensions over the strategic chokepoint, through which a fifth of the world's oil passes.

Tendean Traffic Partially Reopens After Truck Collision, Blok M Route Still Closed

Traffic on Jalan Kapten Tendean heading towards Pancoran has been reopened after a temporary closure due to the dismantling of a pedestrian bridge struck by a truck. The route towards Blok M remains closed, causing significant congestion during rush hour. The bridge was severely damaged early Tuesday morning when a truck carrying a crane, whose driver was reportedly distracted by a mobile phone, collided with the structure.

Transjakarta 'Skyline' Corridor Disrupted by Footbridge Demolition, Causing Gridlock

Transjakarta's Corridor 13 services, including the 'Jalur Langit' (Skyline) route, faced significant disruption and passenger backlogs on Tuesday due to severe traffic congestion. The gridlock was caused by the demolition of a pedestrian footbridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta. Services were temporarily halted and routes truncated before normal operations resumed.

Sahroni Urges Police to Investigate Alleged Patient Abuse at Martapura Hospital in South Sumatra

House of Representatives Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni has called on the police to thoroughly investigate an alleged sexual assault of a female patient by a healthcare worker at a hospital in Martapura, East Ogan Komering Ulu, South Sumatra. The local police have confirmed receiving an official report and are currently gathering evidence. Sahroni stressed that such abuse, particularly against a vulnerable patient, is unacceptable and must be prosecuted to the full extent of the law to ensure justice and restore public trust.

Aurra Markets Strengthens MENA Presence Following Appearance at Money Expo Abu Dhabi 2026

Aurra Markets, a global multi-asset CFD brokerage, has reinforced its footprint in the Middle East and North Africa region after participating as a diamond sponsor at the Money Expo Abu Dhabi 2026. The firm showcased its institutional-grade liquidity and low-latency trading infrastructure while expanding its partnership programmes. The event also featured a demonstration of its integrated Aurra Wallet, designed to streamline fiat and digital asset transactions for clients.

PTBA Supports Police in Uncovering Illegal Coal Mining Operation in Muara Enim

State-owned coal miner PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) has expressed its full support for the police following the arrest of 11 suspects involved in illegal coal mining within its concession area in Muara Enim, South Sumatra. The operation, conducted in two phases, uncovered that the illicit activity had caused potential state losses of approximately Rp 95.9 billion. PTBA reiterated its commitment to collaborating with law enforcement to protect state assets and ensure mining activities adhere to good mining practices.

Prabowo Holds Meeting with Luhut and Others in Hambalang to Discuss GovTech Refinement

President Prabowo Subianto convened with the National Economic Council, led by Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, at his private residence in Hambalang to discuss the nation's economic resilience and the advancement of digital government transformation. The meeting focused on refining the GovTech system to improve data accuracy for social assistance programmes. The initiative aims to minimise targeting errors and foster a more modern, efficient, and transparent governance framework.

Indonesia to use trade to build peace amid global fragmentation

Indonesia has pledged to leverage trade as a tool for fostering peace and prosperity in response to rising geopolitical tensions and protectionism. Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti outlined a strategy centred on open economic diplomacy, export diversification, and supply chain resilience, while advocating for reforms at the WTO and IMF. The government is also employing a 'pentahelix' collaborative model to strengthen its global economic diplomacy.

Lawyer Seeks to Join Judicial Review of Police Law, Citing Reform Safeguards

An Indonesian lawyer has filed a request to become a related party in the Constitutional Court's formal review of the revised Police Law. The applicant argues that the new legislation, rather than being procedurally flawed, actually strengthens police reform by enhancing accountability and oversight. The move comes amid broader public debate and legal challenges concerning the 2026 revision of the Police Law.

Government says global uncertainty has become the 'new normal'

Indonesia's government asserts that global uncertainty is now a 'new normal', necessitating stronger governance to safeguard the national economy. Ferry Irawan from the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs highlighted ongoing geopolitical tensions and market volatility as key risks. He noted that Indonesia is reinforcing market integrity and expanding international cooperation to maintain economic resilience amid these persistent challenges.

WALHI: Don't Just Extinguish Fires, Fix the Root Causes of Forest and Land Fires

The Indonesian Forum for the Environment (WALHI) has urged the government to address the root causes of recurring forest and land fires, rather than just focusing on firefighting efforts. The NGO argues that weak law enforcement against companies and poor peatland governance are the main drivers, evidenced by repeated fires in the same concession areas. WALHI warns that the strengthening El Niño phenomenon could trigger more extensive fires if systemic issues are not resolved.

Cabinet Secretary advises military cadets to continuously improve skills

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya urged over 1,600 cadets at the Indonesian Military Academy in Magelang to continuously enhance their capabilities, emphasising that a free nation requires a strong military. He encouraged the cadets to build a solid career foundation by mastering diverse skills, including technology, languages, and the arts. The briefing took place on Monday as part of the academy's educational programme for cadets.

Japanese Firm Invests Rp539 Billion to Build Plasma Industry

Japanese biopharmaceutical company Takeda is investing USD30 million, or approximately Rp539 billion, to establish a plasma bank network in Indonesia. The investment aims to foster technology transfer, human resource development, and strengthen the national biopharmaceutical industry. The government is targeting the first plasma bank to be operational by 2027, adhering to international standards.

Is the Fake CIA Agent Fraud Against Prabowo a Hoax?

Tempo's investigation reveals a coordinated social media campaign aimed at discrediting its report on a fraudster who posed as a CIA agent to infiltrate President Prabowo Subianto's circle. The operation, involving dozens of accounts on X and Instagram, pushed the narrative that Prabowo was never deceived by Gaurav Srivastava. Tempo's findings, however, detail a years-long relationship between Srivastava and Prabowo, including access to high-level defence meetings.

Japanese Biopharma Firm Takeda Injects IDR 539 Billion into Indonesia, Building Plasma Bank

Japanese biopharmaceutical company Takeda is investing USD 30 million to establish a national plasma bank network in Indonesia, laying the groundwork for a plasma-derived medicinal products industry. The investment, welcomed by the Ministry of Investment, is seen as a strategic move to boost technology transfer and strengthen the domestic healthcare manufacturing ecosystem. The government aims for the first plasma bank to be operational by 2027, reducing reliance on imports.

Amman Mineral Targets 16 Tonnes of Gold Production in 2026

PT Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara (AMNT) is targeting gold production of 16 tonnes in 2026, supported by the operation of its new precious metal refinery. The company also plans to produce 162,000 tonnes of copper cathode, 45 tonnes of silver, and 91 tonnes of selenium this year. Production is expected to increase further over the next three years as mining advances to Phase 8.

Sarmuji: Pancasila Must Be Re-cultivated Through Cultural Strategy in the Digital and AI Era

Golkar Party politician M Sarmuji has called for a shift from merely memorising Pancasila to revitalising its values through Indonesia's local wisdom. Speaking at a seminar, he argued that the state ideology was unearthed from the nation's own traditions and must be nurtured using modern channels like social media and artificial intelligence. He stressed that digital platforms should be seen as tools for cultivation rather than threats.

Widespread Traffic Chaos After Crane Truck Collapses Tendean Footbridge

A pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta collapsed after being struck by a crane truck early Tuesday morning, causing severe traffic congestion across the city throughout the day. The driver was reportedly distracted by his mobile phone and failed to account for the vehicle's height. The subsequent demolition and road closures triggered gridlock extending from Kuningan to Senopati and Gatot Subroto, with disruptions persisting into the evening rush hour.

Gus Ipul Opens First Permanent School Orientation for 'Sekolah Rakyat' in Sragen

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf inaugurated the first student orientation at the permanent Sekolah Rakyat campus in Sragen, Central Java, marking a new academic year for 28,000 students. The minister emphasised that the programme relies on outreach rather than open registration to enrol children from underprivileged families. The event featured various student performances, including multilingual speeches and martial arts demonstrations.

Ministry Blocks 3.7 Million Online Gambling Contents Since October 2024

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has blocked 3.7 million online gambling sites and content items since October 2024. The effort, announced at an OJK forum, relies on public reports and collaboration with the financial services authority and banking sector. The ministry has also reported 38,000 suspect bank accounts to the OJK for closure.

From Dedication to Worship: PNM Sends Hundreds of Employees to the Holy Land

State-owned enterprise PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has rewarded its top-performing employees with an umrah pilgrimage to Mecca. The programme is designed to honour dedication and foster a strong workplace culture, with one recipient expressing gratitude after 17 years of service. The initiative underscores PNM's commitment to employee welfare alongside its mission to empower millions of underprivileged women across Indonesia.

New Facts Emerge in Padang School Explosion: Police Say Perpetrator Was Victim of Bullying

Police in West Sumatra have revealed that a 17-year-old student who allegedly detonated a homemade bomb at MAN 3 Padang was a victim of prolonged bullying. The suspect, identified as R, reportedly suffered deep psychological distress due to constant mockery from peers. Authorities are now prioritising psychological recovery alongside the criminal investigation.

Bogor Regent Allows Street Vendors to Trade at Tegar Beriman Square with Conditions

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto has permitted street vendors to operate at Tegar Beriman Square in Cibinong during evening hours, provided they maintain cleanliness and order. The policy includes mandatory vendor registration, designated operating times, and a future requirement for traders to wear traditional Sundanese attire. The initiative aims to balance economic opportunity for residents with the upkeep of public facilities.

Police Chief's Safari to TNI and AGO Headquarters Seen as Move to Ease Inter-Agency Tensions

Analysts view National Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo's visits to the TNI and Attorney General's Office as a strategic effort to reduce friction between law enforcement agencies. The visits follow the naming of a former senior prosecutor as a corruption suspect, which had raised inter-institutional tensions. The move is seen as implementing President Prabowo's directive for solidity among the nation's legal and security pillars.

Nusa Penida Set to Become Green Island as Electric Vehicles Arrive

The Klungkung Regency government has partnered with PT RVE and Bank Mandiri to transform Nusa Penida into a green island through an integrated electric vehicle ecosystem. The initiative, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to balance economic growth with environmental preservation by targeting 100 per cent renewable energy use by 2030. The collaboration includes the provision of electric vehicle fleets, charging infrastructure, and digital platforms to pioneer green mobility tourism in Indonesia.

BNPB: Clean Water Supply Reaches Six Sub-districts in Banyumas

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that clean water distribution is now reaching six sub-districts in Banyumas, Central Java, to combat the effects of widespread drought. The operation targets over 5,600 residents affected by reduced rainfall during the dry season. Local disaster agencies are deploying water trucks and installing storage tanks to mitigate the risk of ongoing water scarcity.

Drought Hits Six Villages in Bekasi, BPBD and PMI Distribute Hundreds of Thousands of Litres of Clean Water

Prolonged dry weather has triggered a water crisis across six villages in three sub-districts of Bekasi Regency, West Java, affecting over 2,400 families. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) and the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) have responded by distributing 575,000 litres of clean water to 20 priority locations. Authorities warn the dry season is expected to peak in September and have urged residents to conserve water while maintaining emergency stocks for further distribution.

OJK: Banks Close 51,200 Accounts Linked to Online Gambling

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revealed that banks have terminated business relationships with 51,200 customers due to transactions linked to online gambling activities up to May 2026. The regulator also reported that banks rejected 2.8 million prospective customers during the same period as part of intensified anti-money laundering measures. The crackdown, which includes blocking 32,453 accounts, reflects a significant increase in suspicious transaction reports related to gambling, which now account for over a third of all such reports.

Gridlock Spreads to Gatot Subroto as Tendean Footbridge Demolition Continues

The demolition of a damaged footbridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta has triggered severe traffic congestion across the city's main thoroughfares. The knock-on effects have gridlocked Jalan Gatot Subroto heading towards Kuningan and disrupted TransJakarta bus services, with routes being shortened and diverted. Police are managing traffic flows as the removal operation, caused by an earlier collision with a truck, extends into the evening rush hour.

Construction Begins on 1,133 Permanent Homes for Padangsidimpuan Disaster Survivors

The Task Force for the Acceleration of Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) has commenced the construction of 1,133 permanent homes for flood survivors in Padangsidimpuan, North Sumatra. The project, built on 27 hectares of land, is a cross-ministerial effort to provide safe and sustainable relocation. The first phase targets the completion of 200 units by December 2026.

Indonesia to use trade as a bridge for peace amid global fragmentation

Indonesia is positioning trade as a tool for peace and cooperation rather than confrontation, according to Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri. Speaking at the Jakarta Geopolitical Forum, she outlined Indonesia's strategy of open economic diplomacy, market diversification, and advocating for reforms in global institutions like the WTO and IMF. The country is leveraging its middle-power status and a 'pentahelix' collaborative approach to navigate geopolitical tensions and build resilient supply chains.

Police question student suspected of assembling bomb in Padang

Police in Padang, West Sumatra, are investigating a 17-year-old student suspected of assembling an explosive device that detonated at a state Islamic senior high school. The suspect is being questioned with parental accompaniment as authorities probe his motives and methods. No fatalities were reported, though the blast caused property damage and alarmed the school community.

Southeast Sulawesi holds People's Market to help residents obtain cheap staples

The Southeast Sulawesi provincial government has organised a two-day People's Market in Kendari to provide affordable basic foodstuffs and free health checks. The event, marking the 79th National Cooperative Day, involves cooperatives, MSMEs, and the state logistics agency Bulog. It aims to deliver direct economic benefits and strengthen the role of cooperatives in supporting regional welfare.

Jakarta Fair Becomes an Educational Platform for Paylater Usage

The Jakarta Fair Kemayoran 2026 is being used by financial industry players to educate the public on the responsible use of digital financing services like paylater. This initiative comes as Indonesia's financial inclusion index reaches 80.51 percent, highlighting the growing need for consumer protection and literacy. SPayLater's participation aims to teach visitors about understanding fees, terms, and the importance of using only OJK-licensed services.

Land Fire at KM 9 Penajam Successfully Contained, No Casualties

A land fire at KM 9, Nipah-Nipah Village in Penajam Paser Utara, East Kalimantan, was swiftly brought under control on Tuesday. The rapid response by the local police and the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) prevented the blaze from spreading. No casualties or material losses were reported in the incident.

OJK Chief Confident Indonesia's Economic Fundamentals Remain Strong After S&P Affirms Rating

The head of Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed S&P Global Ratings' decision to maintain the country's sovereign credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook. The rating agency cited strong domestic demand, prudent fiscal policy, and a credible policy framework as key supports. The OJK pledged to continue strengthening the financial sector through integrated supervision and market deepening.

PT KCN Strengthens Role as Supporting Port Amid Rising Logistics Activity

PT Karya Citra Nusantara (KCN) has stepped in to alleviate container service congestion in Marunda, North Jakarta, by providing its operational area as a temporary unloading site. The move follows a mediation involving stakeholders, including drivers and authorities, to address bottlenecks caused by a surge in logistics activity at Tanjung Priok Port. The incident highlights the critical need for collaboration between logistics nodes and the role of supporting ports in maintaining supply chain fluidity.

ATR/BPN Tightens Oversight of Strategic Programmes to Ensure Public Benefit

Indonesia's Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning (ATR/BPN) is intensifying thematic supervision of key national programmes like PTSL and RDTR in the second half of the year. The move aims to ensure the large budgets allocated deliver tangible outcomes for the public and avoid scrutiny from law enforcement. Officials have urged regional heads to conduct weekly evaluations and prepare technical strategies to meet a 98 percent target by 2026.

Indonesia expands forest carbon market to boost green growth

Indonesia is expanding its forest carbon market by allowing international institutions to issue forestry carbon units, a move designed to support the nation's carbon pricing framework. The strategy includes rehabilitating 12.3 million hectares of degraded land and sustainably managing 48.9 million hectares of production and protected forests, which could generate 13.4 billion tons of carbon credits by 2050. The policy also opens carbon market participation to social forestry and Indigenous communities, aiming to create new income streams while strengthening the country's position in global carbon trading.

Expert Calls for Accelerated Integration of Halal Industry to Boost Competitiveness

An economist has urged the Indonesian government to speed up the integration of the halal industry's production, financing, and logistics to enhance global competitiveness. Despite high domestic consumption, Indonesia's halal exports remain dominated by palm oil, with processed, high-value products lagging behind. The key challenge is shifting from merely expanding halal certification to building an integrated value chain that drives value-added exports.

LPDB Koperasi Strengthens Sharia Financing Governance

Indonesia's Revolving Fund Management Agency for Cooperatives (LPDB) is enhancing its sharia financing governance by appointing supervisory consultants to ensure compliance with Islamic principles. The move aims to build partner trust and improve the quality of revolving fund distribution, which reached Rp1.74 trillion in 2025. LPDB targets Rp2.1 trillion in disbursements for 2026, with a focus on the real sector.

Chinese Tourist Bitten by Suspected Rabid Dog in Bangli

A Chinese tourist was bitten by a dog suspected of having rabies in Bangli, Bali. The victim received initial wound treatment at a local hospital before being directed to a clinic for a rabies vaccine. Authorities have since eliminated the dog and sent brain samples for laboratory testing to confirm the infection.

Is the Palace Meddling in the NU Congress? Here's What Gus Yahya Says

PBNU Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf has firmly denied any political interference from President Prabowo Subianto or the State Palace ahead of the Nahdlatul Ulama congress. He urged NU members to dismiss claims of presidential endorsement as falsehoods. The 35th NU Congress is scheduled to take place in Jombang, East Java, from 27 to 31 August 2026.

MUI Fatwa Chief Says Vulgar-Shaped Croissant Cannot Receive Halal Certification

The Indonesian Ulema Council's (MUI) Fatwa Commission has declared that a croissant resembling female pubic hair cannot be halal-certified. The decision is based on Fatwa MUI Number 44 of 2020, which regulates product names, shapes, and packaging. Officials emphasised that halal certification requires not only permissible ingredients but also ethical visual presentation that does not violate religious norms.

UGM highlights root causes of ancient manuscript trade in Lombok

A Gadjah Mada University historian argues that banning the sale of ancient manuscripts in Lombok is insufficient, as economic pressures drive communities to view them as commodities. The practice stems from a perception of these artefacts as economic assets rather than cultural heritage, with some residents selling manuscripts to meet basic needs. Experts call for a holistic preservation approach that includes safeguarding the traditional skills required to produce them.

Bank Danamon's Foreign Currency Savings Surge 52%, Driven by New Services

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk reported a 52% year-on-year increase in foreign currency savings, reaching up to IDR 9 trillion. The growth was fuelled by innovative services like the multi-currency Global Currency Card and competitive exchange rates. Transaction volumes also rose by 25-35%, boosting fee-based income from the foreign exchange business by 35%.

UN: Over 10 Million Afghan Women and Girls to Require Humanitarian Aid in 2026

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported that more than 10.7 million women and girls in Afghanistan will need humanitarian assistance in 2026. The agency highlighted that women and girls continue to bear the brunt of the humanitarian crisis, facing growing needs in healthcare and protection. OCHA warned that a shortage of female health workers, declining funding, and limited access to services are placing increasing strain on maternal healthcare, raising concerns about a potential rise in maternal and newborn mortality.

Klaten Residents Survive on 1.18 Million Litres of Government Water Aid

Over 10,000 residents across four villages in Klaten, Central Java, have been relying on government-distributed clean water for the past month due to the ongoing dry season. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has deployed 236 water tankers to deliver 1.18 million litres of water since mid-June. The emergency mitigation effort will continue as the peak of the dry season is expected between September and October.

86 Companies Offer 2,079 Job Vacancies at Balikpapan Job Market Fair 2026

The Balikpapan City Government has organised the 2026 Job Market Fair, bringing together 86 companies offering 2,079 positions across 69 job types. The event aims to address local unemployment, which stood at 2,827 registered job seekers as of June 2026, and to capitalise on Balikpapan's role as a buffer city for the new capital, Nusantara. Officials highlighted the strong demand for vocational graduates and the need for collaboration between government, industry, and educational institutions to boost workforce competitiveness.

Government to Distribute Free Land Certificates, Here Are the Requirements

The Indonesian government has announced a free land certification programme targeting low-income communities (MBR) to provide legal housing ownership. The initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Housing and the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs, will cover recipients of home renovation aid, participants in the FLPP mortgage scheme, and self-built homeowners classified as MBR. The programme aims to certify an estimated 1.1 million homes that currently lack legal title.

Bapanas Confident Rising GKP Prices Will Boost Farmer Productivity

Indonesia's National Food Agency (Bapanas) believes the increase in the price of unhusked rice (GKP) to above Rp7,000 per kilogramme will improve farmer welfare and spur agricultural productivity. The government is balancing this by providing food aid and market interventions to maintain affordable consumer rice prices. Officials expressed optimism that these combined measures will support both upstream production and downstream affordability.

PKB Urges West Java Governor to Pay Attention to Pesantren

The National Awakening Party (PKB) faction in the West Java Regional House of Representatives has called on the provincial government to take the needs of Islamic boarding schools more seriously. Legislators highlighted that many pesantren, particularly smaller ones in remote areas, still lack basic facilities such as proper classrooms, internet access, and libraries. They also noted that despite the existence of a regional regulation on pesantren facilitation, the 2026 provincial budget currently allocates no financial assistance for these institutions.

Expert: Sharia economic development must be oriented towards value creation

An expert from INDEF's Center for Sharia Economic Development has urged Indonesia to shift its sharia economic development focus from mere growth to value creation in order to achieve global competitiveness. Nur Hidayah highlighted that despite Indonesia's large Muslim population and growing sharia financial assets, the sector's vast potential remains underutilised. She emphasised that success should be measured by contributions to public welfare, environmental sustainability, and the real sector, not just asset size or profit.

KPK Searches Home of BPK Member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi in Muara Enim Audit Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Jakarta residence of Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi. The search is part of an ongoing investigation into an alleged bribery case linked to a BPK audit of the Muara Enim Regency administration. Investigators seized electronic evidence, which will be extracted to gather further information related to the case involving the inactive Muara Enim Regent, Edison.

Ministry Reports 38,000 Accounts Linked to Online Gambling to OJK

The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has reported approximately 38,000 bank accounts suspected of involvement in online gambling to the Financial Services Authority (OJK). Of these, around 32,500 accounts have been closed, achieving a success rate of 88.5 percent. The government is urging banks to enhance their Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures to combat the rapidly shifting transaction methods used by gambling operators.

Takeda Invests IDR 539 Billion to Develop Plasma Ecosystem in Indonesia

Japanese biopharmaceutical company Takeda is investing USD 30 million (IDR 539 billion) to establish a plasma-derived medicinal products ecosystem in Indonesia. The initial two-year investment will fund the creation of a plasma bank network, laying the foundation for a domestic industry. The government views this as a strategic move that will facilitate technology transfer and strengthen the national healthcare manufacturing sector.

Online Gambling Mafia Modus Operandi: Farmers Paid IDR 100,000 to Open Illegal Accounts

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs has revealed that online gambling syndicates are paying vulnerable citizens between IDR 100,000 and IDR 500,000 to open bank accounts used for illicit transactions. The minister highlighted that farmers and housewives are being exploited, often without understanding the legal implications. She urged the banking sector to strengthen Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, particularly in regional branches, to detect accounts with numerous transactions but minimal balances early on.

Online Gambling Accounts Keep Growing, OJK Chief to Deploy New 'Tactic'

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revealed that the number of online gambling accounts continues to rise, with around 32,000 accounts already blocked. The regulator plans to build an integrated inter-agency system to share information on gambling accounts across the entire banking sector. A new blacklist system is also being developed, which would permanently bar identified individuals from accessing any banking or payment services.

Social Affairs Minister Calls for Safe, Hazing-Free School Orientation

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has instructed all parties to ensure a safe and comfortable environment during the School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) for the 2026/2027 academic year at Sekolah Rakyat. He emphasised that there must be no hazing, violence, or actions that undermine the orientation process, urging teachers to provide empathetic support to help students adapt. The programme will be rolled out in four waves across 101 schools, with the minister reminding staff that the facilities were built with public funds as a dedication from President Prabowo to underprivileged families.

Maybank Marathon Strengthens Commitment Towards 2030 Carbon Neutral Target

Maybank Indonesia is advancing its sustainability agenda by targeting a carbon-neutral status for the Maybank Marathon by 2030, beginning with a comprehensive carbon footprint measurement of the 2025 event. The assessment, conducted with climate tech firm Jejakin, identifies participant accommodation and air travel as the largest emission sources. Initiatives to reduce this impact include promoting electric vehicles, optimising shuttle services, and partnering with eco-friendly hotels, alongside broader environmental and social programmes such as mangrove planting and community empowerment.

2,663 Civil Servants and PPPK in West Java Addicted to Online Gambling

The West Java Provincial Government has identified 2,663 civil servants (ASN), predominantly part-time Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK), as being involved in online gambling throughout 2025. The Regional Civil Service Agency (BKD) is conducting in-depth investigations, with 279 employees already facing imminent disciplinary sanctions. Sanctions range from delayed salary increments to termination of contract, particularly for repeat offenders among PPPK.

Basarnas Evacuates Body of MV Shandong De Yu Crew Member in Badung Strait

The Bali Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has evacuated the body of a Chinese crew member from the MV Shandong De Yu in the Badung Strait. The deceased, 47-year-old Zhang Wenli, was reported to have suffered respiratory distress and died on board while the vessel was en route from China to Australia. A joint SAR team retrieved the body and transported it to Prof. Ngoerah Sanglah Hospital in Denpasar.

Coordinating Minister for Food: Papua's Needs to Form Basis of Food Development Policy

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has stated that the central government will base its food sector development policies on the specific needs of the Papuan people. During a regional meeting in Jayapura, he gathered local proposals including the acceleration of rice field printing and provision of agricultural machinery. The collected input will be presented to President Prabowo to optimise the establishment of food production centres in the region.

Overtreatment Risks Triggering Antibiotic Resistance, Healthcare Services Must Align with Clinical Needs

Indonesian healthtech firm DokterIN has introduced a 'Connected Care 360°' approach to combat overtreatment, which is driving up medical costs and threatening patient safety. The initiative comes as Indonesia faces a projected 17.8% medical inflation rate by 2026, with industry data showing overuse care is a top concern for Asian insurers. Stakeholders, including the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Health, are being urged to adopt integrated telemedicine and cost-sharing schemes to curb unnecessary procedures and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.

Densus 88 Investigates Motive of Padang Student Who Assembled and Detonated Homemade Bomb

Indonesia's counter-terrorism unit, Densus 88, is investigating a student from MAN 3 Padang who allegedly assembled and detonated a homemade bomb at his school. The 17-year-old suspect, identified as RGJ, reportedly learned bomb-making online and was inspired by a similar incident at a Jakarta high school in 2025. Authorities are currently verifying his claims and working to identify the intended target of the attack.

Takeda Invests Rp539 Billion in Indonesia's Plasma Ecosystem

Japanese biopharmaceutical company Takeda has committed US$30 million, or approximately Rp539 billion, to establish a plasma bank network in Indonesia. The investment aims to lay the foundation for a national plasma-derived medicinal products industry. The government views this as a strategic move to boost technology transfer, develop skilled human resources, and strengthen Indonesia's position as a regional health manufacturing hub.

IDX Adds 'Price Impact Ratio' Criterion for High Shareholding Concentration Stocks

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has introduced a new 'Price Impact Ratio' criterion to identify stocks with a market capitalisation above Rp10 trillion that may have a high concentration of shareholding. The ratio measures price changes against trading velocity, flagging stocks with low transaction volumes but significant price swings for further screening. This reform has increased the number of stocks in the High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) category from 14 to 37.

Kepri Government Refuses Legal Aid for Civil Servant Suspected of Pesparawi Ticket Fraud

The Riau Islands Provincial Government has declined to provide legal assistance to a civil servant accused of embezzling Rp1.01 billion in flight ticket funds for a church choir contingent. Officials stated the alleged fraud was a personal matter unrelated to his official duties. The suspect remains active in his role pending receipt of formal notification from the police, after which his employment rights will be temporarily suspended.

Three Consecutive Days of Drug Smuggling Attempts Foiled at Juanda Airport

Authorities at Juanda International Airport in Sidoarjo successfully thwarted three separate smuggling attempts over three consecutive days, intercepting millions of rupiah worth of illegal pharmaceuticals and methamphetamine. The contraband, including over 45,000 pills of Tramadol and other hard drugs as well as 27 grammes of crystal methamphetamine, was destined for Makassar and Jayapura. The Indonesian Navy, which holds security responsibility for the enclave civil airport, has reaffirmed its commitment to securing vital national objects and enforcing the law.

US Democracy Criticised as Excessive, Citizens Forced to Vote on Everything

The United States is facing a growing debate over the complexity of its democratic system, which requires citizens to vote on a vast array of issues and officials, from county coroners to complex tax referendums. This system, born from Progressive Era reforms, is increasingly criticised for overwhelming voters and blurring political accountability. Furthermore, the modern referendum process is often dominated by wealthy individuals and corporations rather than grassroots movements, raising questions about the true nature of public influence.

PNM Sends Hundreds of Employees to Holy Land, Framing Service as Spiritual Value

Indonesian state-owned enterprise PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has dispatched hundreds of its top-performing employees on an umrah pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia as a reward for their dedication. The programme is designed to appreciate staff loyalty and motivate the workforce, with one long-serving employee noting the company also enabled her to purchase a family home. PNM, which has served over 23 million underprivileged women across Indonesia, views the initiative as part of building both professional excellence and spiritual strength among its human resources.

DPR Proposes National Standards for Islamic Boarding School Care Following Santri Burning Case

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has proposed the creation of a National Standard for Pesantren Care focused on child protection, following the death of a student in a violence case at a Lombok boarding school. The legislator argued that student safety must become a primary indicator of institutional quality, not just administrative or curricular compliance. The proposal includes mandatory safe reporting mechanisms, regular supervision, and strict sanctions up to the revocation of operational permits for institutions that systematically allow violence.

Danamon Relies on Business Ecosystem to Boost Third-Party Funds

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk is leveraging its business ecosystems, including automotive and fast-moving consumer goods, to drive sustainable growth in third-party funds. The bank remains confident in meeting its 2026 targets despite intense competition, with first-quarter deposits already up 16 percent year-on-year. Danamon is also selectively adjusting interest rates and enhancing digital services to increase low-cost funding and maintain a competitive cost of funds.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Adopts 'LGBTQ Culture' Prevention Terminology Following Presidential Regulation 111

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is developing educational materials aimed at preventing the spread of 'LGBTQ culture' in schools, following Presidential Regulation 111/2025 which classifies it as a non-military threat. The ministry distinguishes between individuals and the 'movement' or 'culture', and plans to collaborate with academics to create age-appropriate content for all religious education units. Civil society groups have criticised the regulation, arguing it violates fundamental human rights and international commitments.

Indonesia increasingly trusted to host global music events

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana stated that Indonesia is gaining greater international trust as a host for global events, such as music concerts, which can attract global tourists. The government views these events as opportunities to showcase Indonesia as a friendly, creative, and safe destination while boosting the tourism and creative economy sectors. The planned BTS concert in Jakarta in December 2026 is expected to draw young international visitors and generate widespread economic benefits for local businesses.

Transjakarta 'Skyline' Corridor Diverted Due to Footbridge Demolition

Transjakarta's 'Jalur Langit' (Skyline) corridor services have been rerouted due to severe traffic congestion caused by the demolition of a damaged footbridge in South Jakarta. The footbridge was struck by a crane truck, leading to gridlock on several major thoroughfares including Jalan Sudirman and Jalan HR Rasuna Said. Authorities are managing the traffic impact while the demolition work continues.

Haj Minister Reveals Prabowo's Reaction to Potential 2027 Haj Cost Increase

Minister of Haj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has informed President Prabowo Subianto about a potential rise in 2027 Haj costs, driven by global economic pressures. The President reportedly instructed that any increase should not burden pilgrims. The ministry has proposed a total cost of Rp 107 million per pilgrim but is devising a payment scheme to keep the direct cost to pilgrims stable.

Police Confirm Six Victims of Indramayu Accident Receiving Intensive Care

Authorities have confirmed that six individuals injured in a fatal multi-vehicle collision on the Pantura route in Indramayu, West Java, are still receiving intensive medical treatment. The police are coordinating with Jasa Raharja to expedite compensation claims for the victims and their families. Investigators are using the results of the crime scene investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident and establish liability.

Indonesia urges US, Iran to respect Islamabad Memorandum

Indonesia has called on the United States and Iran to uphold the Islamabad Memorandum, warning that continued instability in the Gulf region will have direct economic consequences for the Indonesian public. Foreign Minister Sugiono stressed that Indonesia's position remains unchanged in seeking an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to stability. The appeal follows renewed attacks between the two nations after a dispute over merchant shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Hikmahanto Juwana: Neither the US nor Iran Has the Right to Impose Tariffs in the Strait of Hormuz

International law expert Hikmahanto Juwana argues that neither the United States nor Iran has the legal right under international law to impose tariffs on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that while both nations are vying for control of the strategic waterway, the ongoing armed conflict makes a resolution difficult to foresee. The US has separately claimed that China agrees no country should impose such transit fees.

Police Investigate Crime Scene at MAN 3 Padang After Student's Homemade Bomb Explodes

Indonesian police are investigating the scene at MAN 3 Padang in West Sumatra after a 17-year-old student detonated a homemade bomb on school grounds. The student, identified as R, reportedly learned bomb-making online and was inspired by a similar incident at a Jakarta high school in 2025. No casualties were reported, and the suspect is currently in custody as authorities probe his motives and online activities.

IDX Adds New Criteria, 37 'Jumbo' Stocks to Enter High Shareholding Concentration List

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has revised its High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) list methodology by adding a price impact ratio criterion, resulting in 37 new stocks being flagged. The new metric targets large-cap stocks above IDR 10 trillion, screening for significant price changes relative to low trading velocity to detect potential ownership concentration. The total number of stocks on the HSC list will rise to 51, as part of the bourse's ongoing efforts to ensure orderly and fair trading.

Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Oversees Sampang Rape Case, Highlights Urgency of Chemical Castration Review

The Indonesian Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (Kemen PPPA) is closely monitoring the case of a 15-year-old girl raped by 27 perpetrators in Sampang, Madura, with 13 suspects arrested so far. The ministry has highlighted the legal dilemma as most of the arrested perpetrators are minors entitled to rehabilitation under the Juvenile Justice System Law, while also questioning the effectiveness of chemical castration for adult offenders. Comprehensive support, including psychological counselling and medical care, is being provided to the victim.

Sequis Launches Health Insurance with 'One Care, All In' Concept

PT Asuransi Jiwa Sequis Life has introduced Sequis CareIn, a new health insurance product designed to provide comprehensive coverage from diagnosis through recovery. The launch addresses rising medical inflation in Indonesia, which reached 16.9% in 2025, and aims to mitigate the financial risks associated with high out-of-pocket health spending. The policy includes features such as telemedicine, wellness benefits, and guaranteed renewability up to age 100.

West Java Property Industry Declines by Up to 40% Amid Global Economic Pressures

The property industry in West Java has experienced a significant downturn, with sales dropping by up to 40% due to global economic pressures. The weakening of the rupiah and a moratorium on local mining have driven up material costs, while consumer purchasing power is further eroded by debt issues. Despite a substantial housing backlog of around 2 million units in the region, developers face challenges from stagnant subsidised house prices and regulatory uncertainty over land use.

S&P Maintains Indonesia's Credit Rating, Purbaya: Get Ready to Buy Stocks and Sell Dollars!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has urged investors to buy Indonesian stocks and sell US dollars following S&P's decision to maintain the country's sovereign credit rating. He stated the affirmation of the BBB long-term and A-2 short-term ratings with a stable outlook signals that negative market sentiment was unfounded. The minister believes this will restore confidence and prompt savvy investors to capitalise on the momentum.

Thousands of Bank Accounts Used for Online Gambling, Minister Reveals Data

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, has disclosed the number of bank accounts and e-wallets flagged for suspected links to online gambling. The data, presented to financial authorities, shows major banks like BCA and BRI dominate the list, though the minister cautioned that perpetrators rapidly shift their methods. The move aims to foster transparency and strengthen collaborative efforts to combat illegal online gambling.

Wings Air to open new Bandung-Palembang route on 7 August 2026

Wings Air will launch a new direct service between Bandung and Palembang starting 7 August 2026, operating six times weekly. The route aims to strengthen connectivity between West Java and South Sumatra, supporting tourism, trade, and economic growth. The Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport welcomed the expansion as part of its strategy to become a regional aviation hub.

TikTok Invests Over US$4 Million to Boost AI Education and Tighten Oversight

TikTok has committed more than US$4 million to expand educational programmes and strengthen oversight of AI-generated content on its platform. The social media giant is introducing new in-app resources, enhancing detection systems for AI spam, and joining the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA) to promote transparency. The initiative aims to help users understand, identify, and responsibly engage with AI-created content.

Bali Deputy Governor and Karangasem Council Push for Regrouping of Under-Enrolled Schools

Bali's Deputy Governor and the Karangasem Regency Council are jointly advocating for the regrouping of schools with critically low student numbers. The policy aims to address inefficiencies caused by some schools having more teachers than pupils, while others face shortages, by merging institutions and repurposing vacant buildings. The initiative is also intended to tackle the broader issue of teacher distribution and the lack of new student intakes in certain areas.

KPK Chair Claims Coordination with Attorney General on Febrie Case

Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Chair Setyo Budiyanto has confirmed preliminary discussions with Attorney General ST Burhanuddin regarding the supervision of a bribery and money laundering case involving former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The coordination is intended to demonstrate the seriousness of both institutions in handling the case transparently and professionally. The Attorney General's Office has also stated it will involve the KPK to ensure independence in the investigation.

Drought Hits South Tangerang: Murky Well Water and 19,000 Litres of Aid Dispatched

Residents of Keranggan in South Tangerang are grappling with a severe drought that has rendered well water murky and insufficient for daily needs. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has distributed 19,000 litres of clean water to 55 affected families, but residents say the supply is still inadequate and requires them to make repeated trips to collection points.

IESR Maps Out Opportunities for Integrated Solar Energy Development

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) has released a roadmap highlighting Indonesia's potential to build an integrated solar power industry, driven by a national target of 100 GW. The study identifies four key areas requiring attention: market creation, industrial capacity, human resources, and research and development. IESR also stressed the need for consistent local content rules and streamlined licensing to attract investment and support the phased development of the domestic solar supply chain.

Anti-Corruption Team Probes Village Cooperatives Built on Protected Farmland in Central Java

Indonesia's National Strategy for Corruption Prevention (Stranas PK) team is investigating village cooperatives (KDKMP) in Central Java that were established on protected agricultural land (LP2B). The investigation follows reports of high land conversion rates in the province, with over 17,000 hectares of farmland, mostly rice paddies, converted to buildings in 2024-2025. Officials stated that converting LP2B is generally prohibited unless for public interest and requires strict replacement conditions.

Indonesian Jamu Expands to Sabah, Malaysia, Strengthening Cultural and Economic Diplomacy

The traditional Indonesian herbal drink, jamu, has expanded its international presence with the opening of a new outlet in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. The launch, attended by local officials and the Indonesian Consul General, aims to promote Indonesian culture and strengthen economic ties between the two regions. The expansion follows UNESCO's recognition of jamu wellness culture as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023.

KPK Deems It 'Too Early' to Take Over Febrie Adriansyah Case from Attorney General's Office

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it is too early to take over the corruption and money laundering case involving former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah, as the Attorney General's Office is still in the early stages of investigation. The response follows a suggestion by legal expert Mahfud MD for the KPK to assume control of the case. The KPK has confirmed it will supervise the process after receiving a verbal request from the police.

Bulog East Java Achieves 100% Target, Absorbs 884,000 Tonnes of Unhusked Rice

Perum Bulog's East Java regional office has successfully met its grain absorption target, securing 884,559 tonnes of unhusked rice equivalent. The achievement, which surpasses the previous year's performance, is attributed to strong coordination with local government, security forces, and agricultural extension workers. Bulog East Java has committed to continuing its purchasing efforts beyond the target to maintain price stability for farmers and is also actively absorbing corn.

China-Europe Express Rail Eastern Corridor Boosts Efficiency

The eastern corridor of the China-Europe Railway Express has surpassed 40,000 total journeys, significantly enhancing trade connectivity. Digital port systems and express rail services have improved efficiency along routes linking over 60 Chinese cities with 14 European countries. The corridor, utilising the Manzhouli, Suifenhe, and Tongjiang rail ports, exemplifies high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.

Takeda Invests IDR 539 Billion to Develop Plasma-Derived Medicine Ecosystem in Indonesia

Japanese biopharmaceutical company Takeda is investing USD 30 million over two years to build a plasma bank network in Indonesia. The investment aims to establish a foundation for a national plasma-derived products industry, with the first facility targeted to be operational by 2027. The government views this as a strategic move to boost technology transfer and high-skilled employment in the health sector.

Roy Suryo's Pretrial: Expert Questions Application of ITE Law Articles

A criminal law expert testified in Roy Suryo's pretrial hearing at the South Jakarta District Court, arguing that the electronic information law articles used against him require an electronic document as the object of the crime, not a physical one. The expert also suggested the police report's substance more closely resembles defamation than the alleged ITE Law violation. The hearing will continue with the respondent's evidence presentation.

President Aware of Abnormalities in Priority Programme Governance

President Prabowo Subianto has been informed of governance irregularities in the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and Village Cooperative (KDMP) programmes, according to his special envoy and finance minister. The revelations confirm public criticism, with the MBG programme already facing legal action over corruption and mass food poisoning, while the KDMP programme is under scrutiny for controversial vehicle imports and illogical outlet placements. Officials have signalled that the president is monitoring the situation closely before taking decisive action.

Hundreds of AI Experts Urge Global Policy to Address Economic Impact

Over 200 economists and AI researchers, including 16 Nobel laureates, have signed an open letter calling for urgent government and industry action to manage the economic disruption caused by artificial intelligence. The experts warn that AI's transformation will surpass the Industrial Revolution in scale but occur over a much shorter timeframe, necessitating immediate institutional preparation. The letter highlights both the risk of mass job displacement and the potential for significantly improved living standards.

Traffic Gridlock as Tendean Footbridge Demolition Delays TransJakarta Corridor 13

The demolition of a damaged footbridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta caused severe traffic congestion during the evening rush hour, disrupting TransJakarta bus services. The resulting gridlock spread to major thoroughfares including Jalan Sudirman, Jalan Rasuna Said, and the SCBD area. Police are managing traffic flow as the removal of the bridge, which was struck by a truck earlier in the day, continues.

Agus Andrianto Says Febrie Adriansyah's Travel Ban Is Temporary

Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto has clarified that the 20-day travel ban imposed on former junior attorney general for special crimes Febrie Adriansyah is temporary. The ban was initially requested by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, but the case has since been transferred to the Attorney General's Office, which is expected to request an extension. The travel restriction relates to an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption and money laundering.

Makassar City Government Involves Students in Community-Based Disaster Mitigation

The Makassar city government is partnering with 23 universities to train 23,000 students as disaster mitigation agents, shifting from a reactive to a preparedness culture. The initiative aims to embed disaster readiness at the community level, focusing on mapping risks and performing independent rescues. This move comes as the city faces increasing threats from floods, drought, and extreme weather exacerbated by climate change.

Singaporean Investor Partners with China to Explore Investment in Central Java

Singapore-based Impact of Asia (IOA) Global is facilitating long-term investment in Central Java, bringing potential investors from China and Europe. The initiative includes plans for high-tech manufacturing and vocational education partnerships, with a Chinese footwear manufacturer considering a new production facility. Governor Ahmad Luthfi has pledged legal certainty and accelerated licensing to support the investment, which aims to boost local employment.

Amman Mineral's Copper Smelter Fully Operational Since June 2026

PT Amman Mineral Nusa Tenggara has confirmed its copper smelter in Sumbawa has been fully operational since June 2026, processing the company's entire mining output. The facility, which uses double flash technology, has an input capacity of 900,000 tonnes of concentrate per year and is projected to produce 220,000 tonnes of copper cathode annually. The company is prioritising domestic sales but anticipates the need to export cathode once production reaches maximum capacity.

DEN Reports on Economic Conditions and GovTech Development to Prabowo

The National Economic Council (DEN) presented strategic recommendations to President Prabowo Subianto on strengthening Indonesia's economy amid global dynamics. The council also reported on the progress of GovTech refinement, aimed at accelerating digital government transformation. The initiative seeks to improve the accuracy of social assistance distribution and promote modern, efficient, and transparent governance.

Prabowo Holds Limited Meeting with Luhut, Discusses Economic Conditions and GovTech

President Prabowo Subianto convened a limited meeting with the National Economic Council (DEN) at his private residence in Hambalang to discuss the latest national economic developments. The council, chaired by Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, also reported on the refinement of the government technology (GovTech) system aimed at accelerating digital transformation. The digital upgrades are intended to improve data accuracy and ensure social assistance programmes reach the intended beneficiaries.

KPK Deems It Too Early to Take Over Case of Former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it is premature to take over the investigation into former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, as the case is still in its early stages at the Attorney General's Office. KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto noted that the AGO is still gathering evidence and documents, while the commission has been asked to supervise the process. The House of Representatives' Commission III has confirmed the KPK's authority to take over the case but currently supports the supervisory role.

MBG Kitchen Partners Complain to DPR: We Are Blamed for Poisoning Incidents

Associations managing the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme kitchens have voiced grievances to the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) over an unequal partnership with the National Nutrition Agency (BGN). They claim that kitchen operators are unfairly blamed and sanctioned when food poisoning incidents occur, despite only providing the facilities. The group has threatened a nationwide operational shutdown if the partnership terms are not revised.

Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah Only Barred from Travel for 20 Days, Here's the Minister's Explanation

Immigration and Corrections Minister Agus Andrianto has clarified that the 20-day travel ban imposed on former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah is temporary. The initial request was made by the Metro Jaya Police, but the case has since been transferred to the Attorney General's Office. The Minister stated that the Attorney General's Office is expected to request an extension of the travel ban once the initial period expires.

UI Expert: Trump's 20% Tariff in Strait of Hormuz Could Spark International Rejection

A University of Indonesia expert warns that US President Donald Trump's plan to impose a 20% tariff on cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz is a political instrument likely to face widespread international opposition. Suzie Sudarman argues the move lacks a basis in international law and reflects a foreign policy driven by power and economic gain, potentially disrupting global trade. She also notes that the internal dynamics in Iran, including the IRGC's hardened stance, and the US's transactional approach make a diplomatic resolution increasingly difficult.

Prabowo Summons Luhut and Chatib Basri to Hambalang: Here's What Was Discussed

President Prabowo Subianto convened the National Economic Council (DEN) at his Hambalang residence to discuss the nation's economic outlook and the refinement of digital government services. The meeting, led by DEN Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, focused on strategic measures to strengthen Indonesia's economy amid global dynamics. Discussions also covered the acceleration of GovTech to improve data accuracy and ensure social programmes reach their intended recipients.

Kadin Encourages Partnerships to Create Demand for MSMEs

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) is promoting a closed-loop supply chain partnership model between large companies and MSMEs to ensure demand certainty. Kadin argues that government incentives are needed to attract corporate participation, suggesting a reallocation of subsidised credit interest budgets. The initiative aims to address sluggish MSME credit growth, which is attributed to weak demand rather than high interest rates.

Tanjung Priok Immigration Office Launches 'Jangkar Priok' to Bring Services Closer to the Public

The Tanjung Priok Class I Immigration Office has introduced 'Jangkar Priok', an integrated public complaints and aspirations service, to enhance transparency and accountability. The initiative aims to strengthen two-way communication, allowing passport applicants and stakeholders to easily submit feedback, which will be used to drive continuous service improvements. The office emphasised its commitment to accessible, professional, and public-oriented immigration services.

Former Qatari Emir Passes Away, JK Pays Condolences and Joins Funeral Prayer

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla has expressed his condolences on the death of former Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away at the age of 74. Kalla visited the Qatari Embassy in Jakarta and participated in a funeral prayer in absentia at Istiqlal Mosque alongside Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and other dignitaries. Sheikh Hamad ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013, overseeing the introduction of the country's first permanent constitution and municipal elections that allowed women to vote and run for office.

Corruption Scandal Rocks China's Elite Circle as Former Xinjiang Party Chief Sacked

Ma Xingrui, the former Communist Party chief of Xinjiang and a prominent figure in China's space programme, has been expelled from the party over corruption allegations. The charges include abuse of power, accepting illegal gifts, and engaging in 'power-for-sex' transactions. His downfall is the latest in President Xi Jinping's sweeping anti-corruption campaign, which is increasingly targeting senior officials within the ruling elite.

Not AI, But a Historic Labour Shortage Threatens the US Economy

While graduates blame AI for a tough job market, experts warn the United States faces a far greater threat: a historic labour shortage driven by demographic shifts and a skills mismatch. Sectors like semiconductor manufacturing and skilled trades are struggling to fill positions, with projections showing millions more workers retiring than entering the workforce. This deficit, compounded by declining birth rates, risks crippling the economy and poses a national security risk.

Bengkulu City Residents Required to Stand for 'Indonesia Raya' to Foster Religiosity

The Bengkulu City Government has issued a policy mandating the playing of the national anthem 'Indonesia Raya' and the city's march twice a week in public spaces. Mayor Dedy Wahyudi stated the initiative aims to create a new culture that strengthens nationalism and contributes to a more religious, happy, and sustainable society. The regulation includes specific instructions for traffic management and public venues to ensure compliance.

Sugarcane plantation fire in Sragen started from grass burning, says BNPB

A fire that destroyed an estimated 4.5 hectares of sugarcane plantation in Sragen, Central Java, was triggered by a resident burning grass, according to the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB). The incident, which occurred during an unusually dry season linked to the El Niño phenomenon, caused no casualties. Authorities have urged the public to exercise extreme caution with fire during the current drought conditions.

Minister of Agriculture pushes for Gayo coffee to boost exports and farmer welfare

Minister of Agriculture Andi Amran Sulaiman has urged the development of Gayo coffee as a national flagship commodity to increase exports and improve the livelihoods of farmers in Aceh. He highlighted that the coffee sector has already generated approximately Rp4 trillion for local farmers, with national plantation exports reaching Rp40 trillion in 2025. The government aims to significantly expand this figure, targeting up to Rp200 trillion through sustainable cultivation and strengthened collaboration.

America Gears Up to 'Invade' Hiroshima, Willing to Spend Rp 167 Trillion

US semiconductor giant Micron Technology is embarking on a massive expansion of its factory in Hiroshima, Japan, with an investment of 1.5 trillion yen (Rp 167 trillion). The move aims to boost production of advanced memory chips, including high-bandwidth memory (HBM), which are critical components for AI processors. The Japanese government is heavily backing the project with substantial subsidies as part of its national strategy to revitalise its semiconductor industry.

KPK Transfers Hajj Quota Corruption Case Files, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to Stand Trial Soon

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred the case files and suspects in the alleged 2023–2024 additional hajj quota corruption scandal to public prosecutors. Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas is among those whose cases have been handed over, signalling the imminent start of their trials. The move marks the conclusion of the investigation phase for several former officials and business figures implicated in the graft case.

Amid Ultra-Processed Food Polemic, PATPI Urges Science-Based National Food Policy

The Indonesian Association of Food Technologists (PATPI) has called for national food policies to be firmly grounded in scientific evidence, moving beyond global trends and stigma surrounding processed foods. The appeal was made during a national seminar in Jakarta that brought together government, regulators, academics, and industry to address the country's complex nutritional challenges. The forum produced a declaration and a policy brief aimed at guiding science-based regulations and fostering innovation to achieve food security and public health ahead of the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Minister Says Prabowo Only Nodded on Potential 2027 Hajj Cost Hike

Religious Affairs Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf stated that President Prabowo Subianto gave no formal response, merely nodding, when informed of a potential increase in 2027 Hajj costs. The government has proposed a new BPIH of Rp 107.3 million per pilgrim, citing the weak rupiah and rising operational expenses. A 60:40 financing scheme has been suggested to ease the burden on pilgrims.

PLN Boosts Power Supply for Grand Hotel De Djokja to Support Hospitality Industry

State electricity company PLN has completed a power upgrade for the heritage Grand Hotel De Djokja in Yogyakarta, increasing its capacity from 1,110,000 VA to 2,770,000 VA. The enhancement aims to support the hotel's operational needs and bolster the tourism sector in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. PLN officials emphasised the upgrade reflects the company's commitment to providing reliable electricity to drive regional economic growth and business competitiveness.

Prabowo Summons Luhut, Chatib Basri, and Mari Elka to Hambalang

President Prabowo Subianto convened the National Economic Council (DEN) at his private residence in Hambalang, West Java, to discuss the latest economic developments and strategic inputs for strengthening Indonesia's economy amid global dynamics. The meeting, led by DEN Chairman Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, also covered the refinement of digital government services (GovTech) to improve data accuracy and the targeting of social assistance programmes. Attendees included prominent economic figures such as Mari Elka Pangestu and Chatib Basri, alongside several cabinet ministers.

Main Problem for Indonesian Industry: Heavy Reliance on Imported Raw Materials, Up to 90% for Pharmaceuticals

Indonesia's industrial sector remains heavily dependent on imported raw materials, with the pharmaceutical industry particularly vulnerable as 90% of its inputs are sourced from abroad. Deputy Minister of Industry Faisol Riza highlighted this as a major challenge, stressing the need to strengthen upstream industries to build a more self-sufficient supply chain. The government is prioritising import substitution programmes to bolster domestic competitiveness against aggressively expanding regional rivals like Vietnam and the Philippines.

UI Partners with BRIN to Develop Zero Waste Processing

The University of Indonesia (UI) is collaborating with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and industry partner Viro to create a pilot model for zero waste management in educational settings. The 'Merdeka Sampah' programme aims to drive transformation through systematic, educational, and sustainable approaches. The initiative emphasises that successful waste management requires strong leadership, structured governance, and behavioural change alongside technology and facilities.

West Jakarta Immigration Educates Students on Preventing Human Trafficking

The West Jakarta Immigration Office has launched an educational initiative at SMKN 11 Jakarta to warn students about the dangers of human trafficking and people smuggling. The programme, part of the 'PIMPASA Goes To School' campaign, aims to equip young people with knowledge of illegal recruitment tactics and the risks of non-procedural overseas work. Officials stressed that immigration's role extends beyond passport services to crucial law enforcement and prevention functions.

Denpasar Police Investigate Traffic Unit Officer Over Alleged SIM Extortion

The Denpasar Police are conducting an internal investigation into a traffic unit officer suspected of involvement in irregular driving licence issuance after a video of the alleged extortion went viral. The police chief has pledged zero tolerance for such violations, promising strict sanctions if the officer is found guilty. Authorities are also probing a separate attempt by two individuals posing as journalists to extort money in exchange for removing the incriminating video.

Central Java Environment Chief Urges Citizens to Process Free Meal Waste Instead of Sending It to Landfills

The Head of Central Java's Environment and Forestry Service has called for organic waste from the Free Nutritious Meals programme to be processed locally rather than dumped in landfills. He noted that the waste, mostly food scraps, can easily be converted into liquid fertiliser, eco-enzymes, or maggot feed for poultry. The appeal comes as the province struggles with 23 sanctioned open dumping sites that must be upgraded to controlled landfills.

Vladimir Putin, Once Xi Jinping's Role Model, Now a Junior Partner

The strategic relationship between China's Xi Jinping and Russia's Vladimir Putin has shifted dramatically, with Putin now occupying a subordinate role due to Russia's prolonged war in Ukraine and Western isolation. Beijing is leveraging Moscow's economic weakness, demanding heavily subsidised energy deals and expanding the yuan's influence in regional finance. Analysts suggest China is pursuing a long-term strategy to turn Russia into a deeply dependent client state.

HRD of Blueray Cargo Admits to Preparing 13 Monthly Bribe Envelopes

A human resources manager at PT Blueray Cargo has testified to preparing 13 envelopes of cash monthly for officials at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The testimony was given during a corruption trial at the Central Jakarta Corruption Court, where the witness detailed a systematic bribery scheme. The case involves three senior customs officials accused of receiving a total of Rp78.8 billion in bribes and gratuities.

BPOM Flags 14 Hazardous Cosmetics Linked to Cancer and Brain Damage

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has taken action against 14 cosmetic products found to contain banned substances such as mercury and hydroquinone. The products, which include locally manufactured, imported, and unlicensed items, were identified during routine surveillance between April and June 2026. BPOM has revoked marketing authorisations and ordered the cessation of production and distribution, warning that the ingredients can cause severe health issues including skin damage, kidney failure, and cancer.

NTB Police Chief Visits High Prosecutor's Office, Discusses Inter-Agency Collaboration

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Police Chief, Inspector General Kalingga Rendra Raharja, paid a visit to the NTB High Prosecutor's Office to strengthen institutional synergy. Both officials emphasised the importance of collaboration within the criminal justice system, from investigation to prosecution. The meeting also served as a reunion for the two leaders, who previously served together in West Java.

President Prabowo Holds Limited Meeting with DEN at Hambalang to Discuss National Economy and GovTech

President Prabowo Subianto convened a limited meeting with the National Economic Council (DEN) at his residence in Hambalang, Bogor, to discuss the latest developments in the national economy amid global dynamics. The council also reported on the progress of GovTech, aimed at refining digital government services. The meeting was attended by key ministers and presidential aides.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Denies Covering Up Santri Burning Case

The Ministry of Religious Affairs in Central Lombok has refuted accusations from the Hotman 911 legal team that it conspired to cover up the burning of three students at a local Islamic boarding school. A ministry official stated they only suggested a family-based resolution and were not involved in any peace agreement. The case is now under police investigation.

KPK Searches Home of BPK Member Bobby Rizaldi

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Jakarta residence of Audit Board (BPK) member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi. The search is linked to an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery concerning BPK audit findings on procurement in the Muara Enim Regency government. Investigators seized electronic evidence to support the case.

Joint Team Simulates Forest Fire Handling in Core Area of Nusantara Capital

A joint task force conducted a forest and land fire simulation in the core government area of Nusantara Capital (IKN) to test early warning systems and inter-agency coordination. The drill, observed by IKN Authority Head Basuki Hadimuljono, involved scenarios using the IKNOW panic button app and thermal drones for detection. The exercise comes as authorities anticipate increased fire risk due to the El Niño phenomenon, with dozens of hotspots already recorded in the region.

BPDP backs new Indonesia-Russia palm oil partnership to expand market access

Indonesia's Palm Oil Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) has endorsed a new memorandum of understanding between Gapki and Russian industry bodies, aiming to strengthen trade ties and open greater market opportunities for Indonesian palm oil products. The agreement, signed at the Indonesian Embassy in Moscow, focuses on information exchange, promotion, and cooperation across Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union. BPDP views the initiative as a strategic move to bolster economic diplomacy and expand the global reach of sustainable Indonesian palm oil.

Why Iran Chooses to Strike Gulf States Instead of US Warships: Military Expert Explains

A retired brigadier general has outlined Iran's strategic calculus in avoiding direct confrontation with American naval assets in the Strait of Hormuz. The analysis suggests Tehran's deterrence strategy relies on targeting neighbouring Gulf states due to the prohibitive cost and low effectiveness of striking heavily defended US warships. The assessment comes amid a significant escalation of US airstrikes aimed at degrading Iranian military infrastructure in the region.

US-Iran Tensions Escalate: Trump Reimposes Naval Blockade, Iran Strikes Tankers and Allied Bases

The United States has reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and launched a third night of airstrikes, targeting military sites in Bushehr and Chabahar. Iran retaliated by attacking two supertankers in the Strait of Hormuz and launching missiles at US bases in Bahrain, while Houthi rebels struck a Saudi airport. The escalating conflict has sent oil prices surging and raised global concerns over the security of the vital Strait of Hormuz shipping lane.

Severe Traffic Congestion Hits Jakarta Following Tendean Footbridge Demolition

Major traffic congestion has paralysed several key roads in South Jakarta following the emergency demolition of a pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean. The footbridge was critically damaged after being struck by a heavy equipment truck early Tuesday morning. Police are managing severe knock-on delays along Jalan Sudirman-Thamrin, the SCBD area, and Jalan HR Rasuna Said, while the truck driver is under investigation for suspected mobile phone use.

Dedi Mulyadi Uncovers Wage and Safety Violations During Limestone Company Raid

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi conducted a surprise inspection of two limestone processing companies in West Bandung Regency, uncovering alleged labour violations. Workers were reportedly paid on a piece-rate basis despite being permanent employees and were denied basic rights such as health insurance and holiday bonuses. The governor also highlighted serious occupational safety failures, including the lack of protective masks for workers exposed to hazardous dust.

Yafqahu Qauli

A retired central banker in Sleman explains to his grandson that a single monetary policy statement, such as a rate hike, is never heard the same way by everyone. He illustrates how the same sentence carries eight different meanings depending on whether the listener is a pensioner, a mortgage holder, an entrepreneur, or a fund manager, revealing the heavy burden of words carried by policymakers.

Traffic on Jalan Kapten Tendean towards Pancoran Reopened After Bridge Demolition

Authorities have reopened Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta following the demolition of a pedestrian bridge that was severely damaged by a truck. The bridge was struck in the early hours of Tuesday morning by a vehicle transporting heavy equipment, whose driver was reportedly distracted by a mobile phone. The incident caused significant structural damage but resulted in no fatalities.

2,663 West Java civil servants flagged for online gambling addiction, dominated by contract workers

The West Java provincial government has identified 2,663 civil servants suspected of online gambling addiction in 2025, with part-time contract workers (PPPK) making up the largest group. The Regional Civil Service Agency is conducting intensive investigations, focusing on repeat offenders and those whose gambling transactions exceed their official income. Administrative sanctions are being prepared, with 279 employees already facing potential disciplinary action, including delayed promotions, demotion, or termination of contract.

KPK Searches Home of BPK Member Bobby Rizaldi in Muara Enim Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the residence of Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi in connection with a bribery case involving the suspended Regent of Muara Enim. The search was conducted to gather additional evidence related to alleged bribery during a BPK audit of the Muara Enim Regency government. The case previously saw the arrest of Regent Edison and several others for allegedly paying Rp 1.6 billion to alter audit findings.

Golkar Says Deddy Sitorus' Coal Corruption Allegations Are Misdirected, Here's Why

Golkar politician Jamaludin Malik has dismissed calls by fellow lawmaker Deddy Sitorus for Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to be investigated over alleged coal corruption, calling the accusations misdirected. Malik argued that coal procurement is a business-to-business transaction and should not be automatically attributed to the minister's regulatory responsibilities. He urged all parties to focus on uncovering the actual procurement chain and any irregularities based on facts rather than political assumptions.

Two Women Named Suspects in Case of Nias Civil Servant Found Dead After Fall from 12th Floor

Medan police have named two women as suspects in the death of Apriaman Lase, a 27-year-old civil servant from the Nias Land Agency, who was found dead after falling from a Medan apartment building. The suspects were arrested in separate locations after CCTV footage showed them leaving the victim's room around the time of the incident. Authorities have yet to disclose the specific roles of the suspects or confirm whether the case is being treated as murder.

Blueray Cargo Witness Reveals Company Credit Cards Used for Customs Officials' Entertainment

A witness from PT BlueRay Cargo testified in a Jakarta corruption court that company credit cards were used to fund entertainment for Directorate General of Customs and Excise officials. Yohanes, the witness, detailed paying for karaoke sessions for a senior customs intelligence officer using the card. The testimony is part of a larger case in which three customs officials are accused of receiving bribes and gratuities totalling Rp78.8 billion from the logistics firm.

Rupiah Breaches 18,000, Public Purchasing Power on the Brink

The Indonesian rupiah has weakened past the psychological level of 18,000 per US dollar, intensifying pressure on the cost of imported goods and eroding public purchasing power. Economists warn that the sustained depreciation, driven by global geopolitical tensions and domestic fiscal concerns, could push prices of electronics, foodstuffs, and raw materials up by 4 to 8 per cent by the end of 2026. The impact is expected to ripple across all economic strata, from urban middle-class households to rural communities dependent on subsidised LPG and agricultural inputs.

High Interest Rates: Automotive Boss Reveals Effect on Car Sales

The Indonesian automotive industry faces headwinds from high interest rates, weakening purchasing power, and a depreciating rupiah amid global uncertainty in 2026. Gaikindo Secretary General Kukuh Kumara notes that commercial vehicles and cars priced below Rp 300 million are particularly sensitive to price increases and rising borrowing costs. The industry remains cautiously optimistic, targeting 850,000 units in domestic sales and leveraging export markets to offset domestic pressures.

India Lodges Strong Protest with Iran After Sailor Killed in Strait of Hormuz Attack

India has summoned a senior Iranian diplomat to issue a strong protest following a missile attack on two commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz that killed an Indian national. The attack, which occurred amid escalating US-Iran tensions, injured several others among the 46 crew members, 30 of whom were Indian citizens. New Delhi has called for an immediate cessation of violence and a return to dialogue in accordance with international law.

Supreme Court saves 23 tonnes of paper since adopting electronic system

Indonesia's Supreme Court has saved 23 tonnes of paper by transitioning to an electronic case management system. The move has also accelerated legal proceedings and reduced the risk of case files being lost or mishandled. Chief Justice Sunarto highlighted the reform as a key breakthrough in tackling case backlogs and improving legal certainty.

KPK Searches Home of BPK Member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the Jakarta home of Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) member Bobby Adhityo Rizaldi. The search is part of an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery related to the conditioning of BPK audit results in Muara Enim Regency. Investigators seized electronic evidence to deepen their inquiry into the case.

Bekasi Metro Police Hunt Suspect in Kidnapping and Assault of Woman in Cikarang

Police in Bekasi are pursuing a man suspected of holding his girlfriend captive and physically assaulting her for a week in a rented house in Cikarang Selatan. The victim, a 25-year-old woman, managed to escape through a window and has filed a formal complaint. Officers from the Women and Children Protection Unit and the Mobile Investigation Unit are gathering evidence and have questioned several witnesses.

Freeport Boss Says Mining Permit Extension Beyond 2041 Has Been Submitted

PT Freeport Indonesia has submitted its application for a Special Mining Business Permit (IUPK) extension beyond 2041 to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The move follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed in Washington D.C. in February 2026, which outlines terms including increased support for Papuan communities and a future share transfer to the Indonesian government. President Director Tony Wenas confirmed the application is currently under government evaluation.

Police Confirm Viral Video of Tiger Attack in Garut is a Hoax

Police in Garut, West Java, have confirmed that a viral video claiming a tiger descended a mountain and attacked residents is a hoax. The footage actually depicts victims of a mortar explosion in Cipatat, Bandung Barat. Authorities are urging the public not to share unverified information that could cause panic.

Building a Superior Generation Through Quality Education

Quality education is the cornerstone of developing superior human resources, yet Indonesia faces persistent challenges including urban-rural access gaps and technological disparities. The article argues that character building, digital literacy, and enhanced teacher competence are essential to modernising the nation's education system. It calls for a collaborative effort between government, schools, families, and the private sector to invest in education as the key to national progress.

2,663 West Java Civil Servants Suspected of Online Gambling, Majority Part-Time PPPK

The West Java Provincial Government has identified 2,663 civil servants suspected of engaging in online gambling, with the majority being part-time government contract workers (PPPK). The data, sourced from the PPATK, has led to 279 employees undergoing further investigation and facing disciplinary sanctions ranging from delayed promotions to termination of contract.

KPK Chief Responds to Mahfud's Suggestion to Take Over Febrie Case: Too Early

KPK Chairman Setyo Budiyanto has responded to former minister Mahfud MD's suggestion that the anti-graft body take over the corruption case of former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah, deeming the proposal premature. Setyo stated that the case is still in its early stages at the Attorney General's Office, which is currently gathering evidence and documents. Febrie Adriansyah was recently named a suspect by the National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit in connection with alleged corruption and money laundering related to the PT Asabri case.

Tangerang Police Chief Visits Prosecutor and Military Command to Strengthen Institutional Synergy

Tangerang Police Chief Indra Waspada conducted official visits to the District Prosecutor's Office and the 0510/Tigaraksa Military District Command to enhance inter-agency cooperation. The meetings focused on solidifying collaboration in law enforcement and maintaining regional stability. The Police Chief emphasised that successful legal enforcement and safeguarding development require strong synergy between the police, prosecutors, and the military.

East Jakarta City Government Ensures Mobile Veterinary Clinic Supports Animal Health

The East Jakarta City Government has launched a mobile veterinary clinic service to bring affordable and accessible animal healthcare closer to residents. The initiative, managed by the Food Security, Maritime, and Agriculture Agency, will operate across 29 proposed locations. A detailed tariff structure has been published, covering routine check-ups, surgery, sterilisation, and diagnostic laboratory services.

Lima Beans Upgraded: Are They Safe as a Functional Food?

Researchers at Universitas Andalas have conducted a 28-day toxicity study on processed lima bean flour using animal test subjects to evaluate its safety for repeated consumption. The study, funded by the Indonesian Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, found no signs of severe organ damage, though minor changes were observed. The findings suggest that with proper processing and further research, lima beans have the potential to be developed into a safe, nutritious, and economically valuable plant-based protein source.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Governments to Strengthen Supply and Distribution to Control Inflation

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed regional governments to bolster supply chains and distribution networks to keep inflation in check during the second half of 2026. While annual inflation remains within the national target at 3.34 per cent, pressures from the transportation sector and key food commodities like garlic, cooking oil, and rice persist. The government aims to enhance coordination between central and regional inflation control teams to protect public purchasing power.

Industry Ministry Drafts New Electric Vehicle Roadmap to Guide Gradual Transition

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is developing a more comprehensive and mature roadmap for the national electric vehicle industry, involving automotive players to ensure a gradual transition. The government aims to maintain the competitiveness of the conventional automotive sector, which has been established for decades, while aligning with market demand. The new roadmap is intended to provide investment certainty and serve as a practical guide for the industry's transformation.

BRI Chief Responds to Purbaya's Refusal to Extend SAL Fund Tenor

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) President Director Hery Gunardi stated the banking sector will comply with the government's decision not to extend the placement tenor of excess budget funds (SAL). Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa rejected the state-owned banks' request for a one-year extension, citing sufficient existing flexibility and the need for government liquidity. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) emphasised that any changes to fund placements should be planned with adequate notice to maintain financial system stability.

Indonesian Police Exchange Three Chinese Fugitives for Mining Fraud Suspect

The Indonesian National Police's International Relations Division has conducted a prisoner swap, exchanging three Chinese nationals wanted for online scams for an Indonesian fugitive implicated in a mining investment fraud case. The exchange, carried out in coordination with Chinese authorities, underscores bilateral cooperation in tackling transnational crime. The Indonesian suspect, Kariatun Tan, is accused of embezzlement related to a smelter development project in Southeast Sulawesi.

KAI Opens 2026 Railway Sports and Arts Week in Yogyakarta, Uniting 1,632 Participants in Spirit of Service and Sustainability

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) has inaugurated the 2026 Railway Sports and Arts Week (Porseni) in Yogyakarta, bringing together 1,632 employees from 17 contingents across the KAI Group. The event, themed 'Spirit Competition, Power of Sustainability', features nine sports and two arts categories alongside environmental initiatives such as tree planting and waste reduction. President Director Bobby Rasyidin highlighted the event's role in fostering collaboration and well-being among the company's 36,053 workers, who served nearly 259 million passengers in the first half of 2026.

Forestry Minister Absent from House Hearing, Deputy Reports Surge in Forest Fires and Tapir Killing

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni missed a working meeting with the House of Representatives' Commission IV, with the Deputy Minister citing his absence was due to performing the Umrah pilgrimage. During the session, the ministry reported a significant increase in forest and land fire hotspots, with 1,007 detected as of mid-July 2026, largely attributed to the El Niño phenomenon. The meeting also addressed the recent killing of a tapir in a fragmented forest area in Lampung, where four suspects have been arrested.

Dialect as a Pillar of Identity and Social Life in West Pasaman's Multicultural Society

In West Pasaman, the diversity of dialects is not merely a linguistic variation but a profound symbol of identity, history, and social solidarity. The region's multilingual environment, shaped by long-standing interactions between Minangkabau, Mandailing, and other ethnic groups, has fostered a dynamic communication culture where code-switching is a vital social tool. Dialects serve as a marker of collective identity and a means of honouring ancestral values, particularly during traditional ceremonies and community deliberations.

Tambora Police Thwart Smuggling of 12 Stolen Motorcycles to Sumatra

Police in Tambora, West Jakarta, intercepted a truck at the Cikupa toll exit in Tangerang, preventing the smuggling of 12 stolen motorcycles to Sumatra. The vehicles were concealed beneath household items and children's toys in an attempt to evade detection. Two of the motorcycles have been linked to existing police reports, while investigations continue into a potential larger theft syndicate.

Insect Trap Technology as a Brown Planthopper Pest Control Effort in Lasem Village's Agricultural Sector

Students from Universitas 17 Agustus 1945 Surabaya have introduced an environmentally friendly insect trap technology to combat brown planthopper infestations in Lasem Village. The solar-powered UV light trap offers a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides, aiming to reduce crop damage and long-term environmental harm. The initiative, part of a community service programme, included educational sessions and direct demonstrations to local farmer groups.

Chip Giants Flock to Open Factories Near Indonesia, What's the Reason?

Taiwanese semiconductor firms, including UMC, are increasingly establishing manufacturing facilities in Singapore to meet soaring demand from AI and hyperscale data centres. This investment wave coincides with ongoing, unresolved negotiations between Indonesia and Singapore over the export price of electricity, a critical resource for the power-hungry chip industry. Indonesian officials, including Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, have indicated that state-owned enterprise Danantara will lead the electricity export initiative, aiming for a mutually beneficial agreement.

NTB Regional Police Take Over Case of Three Santri Burned, One Dead, in Central Lombok

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Regional Police have assumed control of the investigation into the burning of three students at a pesantren in Central Lombok, which resulted in one fatality. The case was previously handled by the Central Lombok Police, who had named the pesantren leader and a 15-year-old fellow student as suspects. The regional police chief stated that all recommendations from the House of Representatives' Commission III will be followed up, though he declined to comment on why the suspects are not currently detained.

Minister Tito: Village Chiefs Must 'Level Up' to Foster Independent Villages and Curb Urbanisation

Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has launched a new phase of the 'Village Chiefs Enter Campus' programme in partnership with the University of Indonesia. The initiative aims to enhance the managerial and administrative skills of village heads to drive rural economic development and reduce urban migration. The programme is part of President Prabowo's Asta Cita vision to build the nation from the grassroots level.

Manpower Ministry intensifies development of family-friendly workplaces

Indonesia's Manpower Ministry is accelerating the adoption of family-friendly workplace policies after data revealed only 1.23 per cent of registered companies provide childcare facilities. The ministry views daycare provision as a strategic investment to boost national productivity, expand female workforce participation, and support early childhood development. The initiative aligns with the 2025–2045 National Long-Term Development Plan and recent presidential directives.

GAC to unveil updated AION UT at GIIAS 2026

GAC Indonesia will launch an updated version of its AION UT electric hatchback at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2026. The company states the refresh is tailored to Indonesian consumer characteristics while retaining the model's European styling. The event will also showcase GAC's broader electric vehicle lineup and offer promotional programmes for potential buyers.

Indonesia Ready to Host Myanmar Dialogue to Support Reconciliation

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono has stated Indonesia's readiness to host a dialogue between conflicting parties in Myanmar to support national reconciliation. The offer was made during an informal ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting, where he emphasised that an inclusive national dialogue is key to sustainable peace. Sugiono also highlighted the need for concrete progress in implementing the Five-Point Consensus despite the complex situation.

Majalengka Regent Proposes Standardised Menus for Free Nutritious Meal Programme to Ease Monitoring and Maintain Quality

The Regent of Majalengka, Eman Suherman, has proposed standardising the menus for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme to simplify quality control and oversight. The proposal follows an evaluation of the programme's resumption after the school holidays, during which the regent noted a positive response from students. He argued that uniform weekly menus would prevent service providers from concealing poor quality and foster healthy competition.

UNAND and Philippines Researcher Collaborate on West Sumatra Local Food Study

A professor from Andalas University (UNAND) is collaborating with a researcher from the University of the Philippines to study the development of local food from West Sumatra. The research focuses on optimising dadih, a traditional fermented milk product, to create functional foods. The partnership aims to strengthen the utilisation of local resources through scientific innovation and knowledge exchange.

PBNU Chief Urges Global Community to Press for End to US-Iran Violence

Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf has called on the international community to push for an immediate cessation of hostilities between the United States and Iran. Speaking in Jakarta, he stressed that the escalating conflict is causing widespread suffering and urged world leaders to intervene. Staquf also relayed a message from President Prabowo Subianto to Iran's parliamentary speaker, advocating for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.

A Decade After Arbitration Ruling, South China Sea Dispute Remains Unresolved

Ten years after the landmark 2016 arbitration ruling on the South China Sea, experts argue the decision has failed to provide a definitive solution to the territorial dispute. The security dynamics in the region have grown increasingly complex, marked by heightened maritime law enforcement and strategic competition among major powers. Indonesia, not a claimant in the case, is urged to prioritise regional stability through sustained diplomacy and crisis management.

Bappenas: Integrated Coconut Industrial Estates Strategy to Accelerate Downstreaming

Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) is promoting the development of integrated coconut industrial estates in production centres to accelerate downstream processing and reduce logistics costs. The strategy, part of the 2025–2045 Coconut Downstreaming Roadmap, aims to ensure that greater value-added benefits are retained by producing regions. By processing all parts of the coconut—from flesh and water to shell and fibre—in a single location, the government hopes to minimise waste and strengthen the global competitiveness of the national coconut industry.

LLDIKTI V Forms State-Private University Consortium to Accelerate Regional Development

The Higher Education Service Institution for Region V Yogyakarta is establishing a consortium of state and private universities to boost academia's contribution to regional development. The initiative, directed by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, will select five state and ten 'Unggul'-accredited private universities as leading sectors. The consortium will collaborate directly with regional planning bodies and local governments to formulate concrete solutions for strategic regional issues.

Not Just S&P! Purbaya Hints Other Rating Agencies Will Give Indonesia a 'Gift'

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has expressed confidence that other global rating agencies will follow Standard & Poor's lead in issuing favourable credit assessments for Indonesia. He suggested that Moody's and Fitch were premature in lowering their outlooks before first-quarter 2026 economic data was available. S&P recently affirmed Indonesia's BBB long-term rating with a stable outlook, judging current fiscal and external pressures as temporary.

BPOM Awards Ajinomoto PMR Award 2026 for Risk Management

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has awarded PT Ajinomoto Indonesia the Programme Management Risiko (PMR) Award 2026 for its proactive and consistent implementation of risk management across all production facilities. The award recognises the company's voluntary commitment to food safety and its contribution to strengthening the national food industry. BPOM emphasised that such risk-based approaches are crucial for ensuring food security and product quality for Indonesian consumers.

Despite Reaching 40.54 Percent of GDP, Purbaya Says Indonesia's Debt Ratio Remains Safe

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured that Indonesia's debt ratio of 40.54 percent of GDP in 2025 remains within safe limits, well below the 60 percent legal ceiling. He outlined a four-pillar strategy for future debt management, including gradual fiscal coordination and active portfolio management. The minister noted that Indonesia's debt management is relatively prudent compared to neighbouring countries like Singapore and Malaysia.

DKI Jakarta Provincial Government Urged to Ensure Accuracy of Tax Data in the Field

The DKI Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has called on the provincial government to ensure tax data accurately reflects field conditions, following audit findings of unreconciled receivables. The Democrat-Perindo faction highlighted discrepancies in advertisement tax records, where settled payments had not been updated in the regional revenue agency's system. The issue underscores the need for stronger tax database management to support sound fiscal policy.

LAN Head: PKN Batch XXV 2026 Strengthens Adaptive Leadership for Disasters

The National Institute of Public Administration (LAN) is enhancing its National Leadership Training (PKN) to build adaptive leadership among senior officials, using Aceh's post-disaster recovery as a strategic learning model. The programme, running from July to November 2026, will train 63 high-ranking officials from various ministries and local governments. The curriculum focuses on cross-sector coordination, risk-based governance transformation, and public service innovation to bolster national resilience against natural disasters and climate change.

West Java Provincial Employees Involved in Online Gambling Face Potential Dismissal Sanctions

The West Java Provincial Government has verified 2,663 civil servants and contract employees involved in online gambling, with total transactions reaching Rp14 billion. The provincial personnel agency warns that severe sanctions, including dismissal, await those found guilty. The findings have raised concerns over systemic impacts on employee performance and personal lives.

Emergency Response to Jatiwaringin Landfill Fire Officially Ends

The emergency response status for the fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang Regency, Banten, has officially ended after a two-week period. Although the status has been lifted, a dedicated task force will remain on standby to mitigate the risk of new hotspots during the prolonged dry season. The local government is transitioning to a mitigation phase, which includes deploying thermal drones and constructing dedicated water reserves and fire access routes.

Police Arrest Brutal Thief Who Murdered Online Motorcycle Taxi Driver While He Slept in Tangerang

Police have arrested Rahmat Dimas, a man suspected of murdering an online motorcycle taxi driver while he slept at a base camp in Tangerang. The suspect allegedly stabbed the victim in the neck before stealing his motorcycle and mobile phone. The arrest was made at a rented house in North Jakarta following a pursuit by the victim's colleague.

Three Men Assault Railway Crossing Guard After Being Reprimanded for Breaking Through Barrier

A railway crossing guard in Garut, West Java, was assaulted by three men after he reprimanded a motorcyclist for dangerously breaking through a closed barrier. The incident, which occurred at JPL 227 Leuwigoeng, left the guard with facial bruising and scratches on his hands. Local police are currently pursuing the three suspects involved in the attack.

When Ibn Abbas Was Asked to Compare His Knowledge with Ali ibn Abi Talib

Abdullah ibn Abbas, a revered companion of the Prophet Muhammad known for his vast knowledge, demonstrated profound humility when asked to compare his learning to that of Ali ibn Abi Talib. He likened his own knowledge to a mere drop of rain falling into a vast ocean, acknowledging Ali's superior wisdom. This response serves as a timeless example of modesty for scholars.

Three TTU Legislators and Veterinarian Questioned by NTT Police Over Doctor Icha Case

Three members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives and a government veterinarian have been questioned by East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Police. They are being investigated over the alleged intimidation of doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Dr Icha, which reportedly led to her death. The joint investigation team has so far examined 35 witnesses in connection with the case.

South Sumatra Police Chief Visits High Prosecutor's Office, Dismisses Friction Rumours and Affirms Brotherhood

The South Sumatra Police Chief, Inspector General Sandi Nugroho, paid a cordial visit to the High Prosecutor's Office in Palembang, aiming to dispel circulating rumours of inter-agency friction. Both leaders emphasised the harmonious and familial relationship between the two law enforcement institutions. The visit underscored their joint commitment to maintaining a healthy and secure climate for development in the region.

Gayo Coffee Seedling Inspection in Bener Meriah: Agriculture Minister Targets Coffee Exports of Rp 100 Trillion

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman conducted a surprise inspection of a Gayo coffee nursery in Bener Meriah, Aceh, expressing satisfaction with the quality of seedlings. The government has allocated aid for 17,000 hectares of coffee development, projected to boost farmers' income by Rp 4 trillion. Amran aims to increase national coffee export value from the current Rp 40 trillion to Rp 100 trillion by strengthening upstream production and bargaining power.

Pramono Orders Transportation Agency to Ease Gridlock After Truck Strikes Tendean Footbridge

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has instructed the Transportation Agency (Dishub) to urgently manage severe traffic congestion on Jalan Kapten Tendean. The gridlock was caused by a heavy equipment truck that became stuck under a pedestrian bridge (JPO) during the early hours, causing significant structural damage. Authorities are investigating the driver's negligence regarding the vehicle's height clearance.

MPR Study Body Discusses Strengthening People's Sovereignty with Academics

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Study Body held a focus group discussion with academics to address the gap between Indonesia's democratic procedures and substantive people's sovereignty. Experts highlighted issues such as elite dominance in candidate selection, money politics, and weak post-election accountability as key challenges. The forum is part of a broader effort to gather input for a future Constitutional Conference aimed at evaluating and strengthening Indonesia's state administration.

Dollar Accounts Surge 58%, Perbanas Reveals the Cause

The number of US dollar-denominated bank accounts in Indonesia soared by 58% year-on-year in May 2026, significantly outpacing the growth of rupiah accounts. The Indonesian Banks Association (Perbanas) attributes this sharp increase to the new regulation mandating the placement of natural resource export proceeds within domestic banks.

Two Decades of Sekolah Sukma Bangsa: Nurturing Hope and Character Education in Aceh

Sekolah Sukma Bangsa, founded in the wake of the 2004 Aceh tsunami, has marked its 20th anniversary as a model for character-based education, peace, and diversity. The school, established with public donations through the Media Group's 'Indonesia Menangis' programme, operates integrated primary to high school campuses in Pidie, Bireuen, and Lhokseumawe. The anniversary served as a moment to honour its founders and reaffirm its commitment to shaping future generations with strong moral and national values.

West Java Government Employee Online Gambling Transactions Hit IDR 14 Billion

The West Java Provincial Government has uncovered that thousands of its employees were involved in online gambling, with total transactions reaching approximately IDR 14 billion. Data from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) identified 2,663 verified employees, including civil servants and contract staff. The administration is conducting intensive examinations to determine disciplinary sanctions, which could range from minor penalties to dismissal.

No Tax Hikes as Indonesia Faces Revenue Shortfall: Purbaya

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has ruled out tax rate increases despite a projected Rp 46.9 trillion shortfall in 2026 tax revenue. The government will instead focus on broadening the tax base through enhanced data systems and technology to capture revenue from the digital and informal sectors. This strategy aims to narrow Indonesia's significant tax compliance gap, estimated at 3.7 percent of GDP, while maintaining a supportive climate for investment and exports.

Surabaya City Government Distributes Education Aid to 7,380 Students

The Surabaya City Government has distributed educational assistance to 7,380 high school and vocational students for the 2026/2027 academic year. The programme targets students from underprivileged families, orphans, and those in the bottom five welfare deciles, providing school supplies and a monthly cash grant of Rp350,000 for private school attendees. Mayor Eri Cahyadi emphasised that the aid is based on real community data without a fixed quota to ensure it is precisely targeted and helps alleviate the economic burden on families.

S&P Projects Stable Indonesian Credit, Market Awaits Economic Improvement

Standard & Poor's has maintained Indonesia's credit rating at BBB with a stable outlook, citing strong domestic demand and prudent fiscal policy. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) welcomed the decision and committed to strengthening the financial sector. However, asset manager Manulife has downgraded its recommendation on Indonesian assets to underweight, citing market uncertainty and concerns raised by rating agencies.

Danamon reports 52 percent rise in foreign currency savings driven by customer transactions

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk recorded a 52 percent year-on-year surge in foreign currency savings, reaching approximately Rp8.5 trillion to Rp9 trillion. The growth was fuelled by innovative service features, competitive exchange rates, and increased transaction activity among emerging affluent and priority customers. The bank also saw fee-based income from its foreign exchange business climb by around 35 percent.

142 SPPG Units to Strengthen Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Bengkulu

The Bandar Lampung Nutrition Service Office has announced that 142 Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) will support the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meal Programme in Bengkulu Province. The initiative aims to broaden service coverage and optimise community nutrition fulfilment. The office is strengthening coordination with the Bengkulu provincial government to ensure the national programme effectively reaches all target groups.

Trade Ministry optimises Minyakita distribution to secure market stocks

The Ministry of Trade is strengthening the distribution of Minyakita cooking oil to ensure stable supplies in traditional markets. Distribution through state-owned food enterprises has reached 51 percent, exceeding the mandatory 35 percent minimum. The ministry is also monitoring prices and coordinating across sectors to mitigate potential inflation, especially in disaster-affected areas facing logistical constraints.

Iran's Message to Jordan: We Are Not Hostile to Your Country

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has stated that its ballistic missile strike targeted a US airbase in Jordan, not the Jordanian people. The IRGC expressed affection for Jordanians and urged them to demand the dissolution of American military bases in the region. The attack occurred amid escalating hostilities between the US and Iran, including strikes on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz.

Minister Ara Secures List of Abandoned State Land for Flat Construction

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait has obtained a list of idle, state-owned land from the Agrarian Ministry, cleared for the construction of vertical housing. The government plans to develop flats on these sites using various funding schemes, including the national budget, the Danantara sovereign wealth fund, private developers, and corporate social responsibility programmes. Immediate projects include 1,000 units on PT KAI land in Tanah Abang, Jakarta, built with Astra's CSR support, and a similar development in Kiara Condong, Bandung.

Rector: Diversity is Indonesia's strong asset for world peace diplomacy

An Indonesian university rector has stated that the nation's extensive experience in managing a pluralistic society serves as a powerful foundation for global peace diplomacy. This concept, explored in a newly launched collaborative book on religious diplomacy, positions Indonesia's model of peaceful coexistence as a valuable offering to the world. The book develops the ideas of the Minister of Religious Affairs on the role of religion in strengthening interfaith dialogue and international cooperation.

Sri Lanka records nearly 120,000 drop in births in 2025

Sri Lanka has seen live births fall by almost 120,000 in 2025 compared to a decade earlier, with the government pledging support and incentives to reverse the trend. The decline, which accelerated after 2019, is attributed to delayed marriages, rising living costs, and increased female workforce participation. Officials warn the country needs up to 360,000 births annually to maintain long-term population stability.

Economist projects improved economic growth in Q3 2026

Bank Danamon's chief economist forecasts Indonesia's economic growth will improve in the third quarter of 2026, driven by accelerated government spending in the second half of the year. Growth in the second quarter is expected to have slowed following a seasonal boost from the Lebaran holiday period. The government has prepared a Rp26.34 trillion stimulus package to support consumption and growth amid global uncertainty.

Legislator Urges Forestry Ministry to Tighten Corporate Oversight to Prevent Forest Fires

Members of Indonesia's House of Representatives have called on the Ministry of Forestry to strengthen forest fire prevention measures following a 205 per cent surge in hotspots in the first half of 2026. Lawmakers demanded stricter law enforcement against companies with land in fire-prone areas, criticising the current reliance on administrative sanctions. They also highlighted the need to optimise firefighting resources, particularly the Manggala Agni brigade in Aceh.

Automotive Giant Volkswagen 'in Tears', Plans to Shut 4 Plants and Cut 100,000 Jobs

Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume has signalled that the German automotive giant may cut up to 100,000 jobs globally as it battles high operational costs and fierce competition. An internal memo confirmed the company is evaluating the future of four German plants—Emden, Hanover, Zwickau, and Neckarsulm—which currently lack a competitive business case for the 2030s. The proposed restructuring, which faces worker opposition, aims to address costs that are reportedly 20 per cent higher than industry peers.

Part of JPO Demolished After Truck Collision, Jl Tendean Towards Pancoran Reopens

A section of a pedestrian bridge (JPO) on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta has been fully demolished after a truck carrying heavy equipment struck it, nearly causing a collapse. The Jakarta Provincial Government completed the partial demolition, allowing one lane of traffic towards Pancoran to reopen. Demolition work continues on the side of the road heading towards Blok M.

BPK Finds IMO and WIPO 2025 Financial Reports Fairly Presented

The Audit Board of Indonesia (BPK) has issued an unqualified opinion on the 2025 financial statements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The audits, presented at the IMO Council and WIPO Assemblies, also included strategic recommendations for strengthening accounting policies, procurement practices, and human resource management. The findings underscore Indonesia's active role in promoting transparency and credible financial governance within key international organisations.

China's Top Political Adviser Wang Huning to Visit North Korea for Three Days

Wang Huning, China's top political adviser, is scheduled for a three-day visit to North Korea starting Wednesday. The trip follows a recent visit to Beijing by North Korean Premier Pak Thae Song, where both sides agreed to strengthen strategic coordination. The diplomatic exchanges coincide with the 65th anniversary of the Sino-North Korean Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance.

Examining Force Majeure Elements in the Deaths of Three Workers in a Culvert

An investigation is underway into a workplace accident in East Jakarta that claimed the lives of three subcontractor workers, suspected to have been overcome by toxic gas in a confined space. PAM JAYA has demanded a thorough investigation and accountability from its partner, PT Moya Indonesia, while a presidential advisor is monitoring potential occupational safety violations. Legal experts are examining whether the incident qualifies as force majeure or resulted from negligence and breaches of safety procedures.

Jakarta 'Besieged' by Traffic During Rush Hour Following Tendean Footbridge Dismantling

The dismantling of a pedestrian bridge on Jalan Kapten Tendean in South Jakarta, which was struck by a truck, caused severe traffic congestion during the Tuesday evening rush hour. Major thoroughfares including Jalan Sudirman, Jalan Rasuna Said, and the SCBD area were heavily affected as authorities worked to clear the damaged structure. Police reported that the evacuation process, ongoing since the early morning accident, has blocked key routes and is expected to continue disrupting traffic.

Police Hand Over Investigation Dossiers for Three Corruption Cases to the AGO

The Indonesian National Police have formally transferred the investigation dossiers for three major corruption and money laundering cases to the Attorney General's Office (AGO). The cases involve alleged corruption in coal governance, financial irregularities at PT Asabri and PT Jiwasraya, and money laundering related to PT CBS's debt settlement. This handover follows an agreement between the two institutions to synergise law enforcement efforts.

Situbondo Police Ensure SPPG Meets Standards for Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Situbondo Resort Police have confirmed that five Police Nutrition Service Units (SPPG) in the region meet all required standards for the government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Monitoring revealed all units possess the necessary hygiene sanitation certificates and wastewater treatment facilities. The police chief emphasised ongoing supervision to guarantee food safety and quality for the nation's future generations.

IOA Global and Central Java Government Explore Investment and Vocational Cooperation

Singapore-based non-profit IOA Global is exploring long-term cooperation with the Central Java provincial government, focusing on high-tech manufacturing investment and vocational education. The initiative includes plans to bring investors from China and Europe to assess the region's potential, with a specific Chinese shoe manufacturer already showing serious interest. The collaboration also aims to boost workforce competency through student and expert exchanges with institutions in Fujian and Xiamen.

Minister Agus Andrianto Explains Why Febrie Adriansyah Was Only Banned from Travel for 20 Days

Minister of Immigration and Community Affairs Agus Andrianto has clarified that the 20-day travel ban imposed on former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah was a temporary measure requested by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The case, involving alleged corruption and money laundering, has since been transferred to the Attorney General's Office, which is expected to request an extension of the ban. The transfer is described as a form of synergy between the police and the prosecution service.

Local flagship commodities strengthen food security: Minister

A senior minister has emphasised that achieving President Prabowo's food self-sufficiency directive requires developing high-value commodities like bananas alongside staple rice production. Inspecting a demonstration plot in West Java, the minister stressed that food security must be paired with farmer prosperity through added value, business ecosystems, and guaranteed market access. The government views strengthening cooperatives and post-harvest infrastructure as essential to transforming Indonesia's substantial banana output into sustainable economic benefits for growers.

Only 1.23 Percent of Indonesian Companies Provide Daycare Facilities for Workers

A mere 1.23 percent of registered companies in Indonesia currently offer childcare facilities, according to Ministry of Manpower data. The government is promoting flexible Family Friendly Workplace schemes, including shared daycare centres and childcare vouchers, rather than mandating on-site facilities. Officials argue that such support is a strategic investment to boost productivity, expand female workforce participation, and advance long-term human capital development.

KSP Ready to Cut Red Tape to Accelerate President's Priority Programmes

The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) has pledged to slash convoluted bureaucracy to speed up President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes. KSP Head Dudung Abdurachman stated the President demands rapid execution and dislikes time-wasting regulations. The initiatives, including free meals and school revitalisation, aim to improve public welfare and ensure equitable development across Indonesia's regions.

Freeport's Contribution to State Coffers Forecast to Surge Past Rp120 Trillion by 2030

PT Freeport Indonesia projects its annual contribution to the state will exceed US$7 billion (approximately Rp120 trillion) by 2030, driven by a return to full production capacity. The forecast includes a significant ramp-up in output from its underground mine and the commencement of operations at the new Kucing Liar block by 2029. The company expects state revenues to rise sharply from an estimated US$2.6 billion in 2026 to US$4.7 billion in 2027, comprising non-tax state revenue, corporate taxes, and dividends.

BPDP Supports Strengthening of Indonesia-Russia Palm Oil Partnership

The Indonesian Oil Palm Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) has endorsed a new partnership between Indonesian and Russian industry groups aimed at expanding market access. The collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding between the Indonesian Palm Oil Association (GAPKI) and Russian fat and oil unions. The agreement is expected to enhance trade promotion and information exchange for Indonesian palm oil products in Russia and the Eurasian Economic Union.

Viral Confession of Alleged Sexual Assault at Martapura Hospital Prompts Police Investigation

A video confession by a female patient alleging sexual assault during treatment at RSUD Martapura in South Sumatra has gone viral, prompting a police investigation. The victim, who was physically weak and on respiratory support, claimed a man identified as SL groped her and forced her to touch his genitals. The East OKU Police have confirmed receiving a report from the victim's family and are currently conducting a thorough inquiry.

Karangasem People's School Offers Hope to Students from Underprivileged Families

The People's School in Karangasem, Bali, has provided a vital educational lifeline for 163 students from impoverished families who had nearly abandoned their studies due to financial constraints. The fully subsidised institution, which covers all costs including clothing, meals, and accommodation, has been met with relief and enthusiasm by new pupils. Many students, whose parents work as casual labourers or are unemployed, expressed that this opportunity was their only chance to continue their education beyond primary school.

Minister Reports Need for IDR 4 Trillion Down Payment for Hajj Tents

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has requested IDR 4 trillion from the House of Representatives to secure a down payment for Hajj services in 2027. The funds are urgently needed to meet Saudi Arabian government deadlines for confirming tent locations and basic service packages. The minister assured that the advance would be offset against future Hajj financial requirements.

Bamsoet Urges Government to Strengthen Protection of Disability Education Rights

Indonesian legislator Bambang Soesatyo has called for stronger implementation of laws guaranteeing education rights for people with disabilities, highlighting a significant gap between constitutional guarantees and reality. Data shows millions of disabled Indonesians remain out of school due to accessibility barriers, lack of specialist teachers, and persistent social stigma. He stressed the need for a human rights-based approach and consistent policy enforcement to achieve inclusive education.

Indonesia, Vietnam target US$18 billion trade by 2028

Indonesia and Vietnam have committed to boosting bilateral trade to US$18 billion by 2028, with both foreign ministers signing a memorandum of understanding in Jakarta. The agreement also aims to eliminate trade barriers, increase business interactions, and expand cooperation into maritime security, agriculture, and the electric vehicle supply chain. Vietnamese officials expressed confidence the target could be exceeded, citing strong current trade performance.

Attorney General's Office to Auction 90 South Hills Apartment Units Belonging to Convict Benny Tjokrosaputro

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has announced the auction of 90 apartment units in South Hills, Jakarta, seized from convicted corruption felon Benny Tjokrosaputro. The online auction, scheduled for 29 July 2026, aims to generate approximately Rp219.78 billion in non-tax state revenue. The assets were confiscated following a final and binding court decision in a high-profile corruption case.

Home Affairs Ministry Partners with University of Indonesia to Boost Village Head Capacity

The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched a programme with the University of Indonesia to enhance village heads' skills in governance, leadership, and local economic development. Minister Tito Karnavian highlighted the need for improved integrity and managerial ability to prevent legal issues arising from poor administration. The initiative aims to foster innovation and professional management of village funds and potential.

ITS creates electric boat tractor for peatland agriculture

Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) Surabaya has developed an electric boat tractor designed to support mechanised farming on peatlands, which are typically inaccessible to conventional machinery. The innovation, which has attracted the attention of the Ministry of Agriculture, combines flotation principles with electrification to operate on waterlogged soil without sinking. The tractor is estimated to be capable of ploughing one hectare of land on a single charge, offering lower operational costs and reduced carbon emissions.