Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 20 July 2026

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OASA Develops Lampung Raya PSEL to Support National Waste-to-Energy Project

PT Maharaksa Biru Energi Tbk (OASA) has been selected to develop the Lampung Raya Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facility, part of the second phase of national projects designated by Danantara. The plant is designed to process approximately 1,167 tonnes of waste per day. The initiative expands OASA's growing portfolio in the national waste-to-energy ecosystem through collaboration with strategic partners.

JP Morgan Reverses Course, Upgrades BBRI Target Price

JP Morgan has upgraded its recommendation for Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI) from Underweight to Overweight, raising the target price to Rp3,400. The investment bank cited improving asset quality in the micro-segment and an attractive valuation as key drivers for the tactical upgrade.

Indonesian Democracy and the Historical Path Not Taken: Monarchy

This opinion piece reflects on Indonesia's founding choice of a republic over a monarchy, arguing it was a necessary compromise to unite a diverse archipelago. The author revisits the historical successes of Nusantara's great kingdoms, such as Sriwijaya and Majapahit, to suggest that monarchy provided leadership continuity. The article ultimately frames the discussion within the context of Indonesia's constitutional democracy and the spirit of Pancasila.

OJK Seeks to Strengthen Credit Access for MSMEs

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is working to enhance financing access for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), projecting credit growth of 7-9% for the sector in 2026. The initiative includes optimising the Financial Information Service System (SLIK) to improve debtor information quality and support inclusive financing. OJK emphasised its commitment to coordinating with other financial system stability committee members to maintain national financial sector stability.

Online Taxi Driver Hired by Defendant in Bank Manager Kidnap-Murder Case Acquitted

An online taxi driver, Eka Wahyu Hidayatullah, has been acquitted of all charges in the kidnapping and murder of bank branch manager M Ilham Pradipta. The East Jakarta District Court ruled that Eka was merely a hired driver and had no knowledge of the criminal plan, having left the scene hours before the abduction took place. The broader case involves 18 defendants, including military personnel, accused of a plot to steal Rp 455 billion from dormant accounts.

Kortastipidkor Investigates Alleged Corruption in Sepolwan Land Grant

The Indonesian National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortastipidkor) is investigating alleged corruption involving a land and building grant for the Police Women's School (Sepolwan) in Ciputat and the procurement of replacement land in Lembang. Officials stated the preliminary inquiry is to determine if a criminal act occurred, denying accusations that the process aims to criminalize a former high-ranking police official.

Prabowo Reveals Reasons for Holding Mid-Year Plenary Cabinet Session in 2026

President Prabowo Subianto has convened a mid-year Plenary Cabinet Session to conduct a comprehensive performance review ahead of his state address in August 2026. The President highlighted the resolution of over 100 strategic issues in 18 months and cautioned his ministers against complacency. The meeting focused on evaluating the government's achievements and accelerating priority programmes for the second year of the administration.

Egg Prices in Indonesia Show Stark Disparity, Papua Sees 110% Surge Above Ceiling

Indonesia's Statistics Bureau (BPS) has reported a general decline in chicken egg prices across most of the country, yet extreme price disparities persist in several eastern regions. While the national average has fallen below the government's reference price, districts in Papua such as Mappi recorded prices 110% higher, highlighting significant logistical and supply chain challenges. Meanwhile, poultry farmers' associations report that despite a recent recovery in live bird prices, egg producers continue to sell at a loss due to production costs exceeding market prices.

Piyungan Intersection Reimplements Stop-and-Go System for Concrete Road Works

The Bantul Police have reinstated a stop-and-go traffic system at the Piyungan three-way junction on the Jogja-Wonosari road as concrete rigid pavement installation resumes. The traffic management, which began on Monday afternoon, is expected to last until the end of July 2026. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes to avoid congestion during the construction period.

Diabetes Patients Urged to Undergo Regular Eye Checks to Prevent Permanent Blindness

Professor Muhammad Bayu Sasongko from Gadjah Mada University has urged people with diabetes to stop dismissing vision problems as a normal part of ageing, warning that such complacency can lead to permanent blindness. He highlighted that diabetic retinopathy is preventable with early detection and proper management, as uncontrolled diabetes damages blood vessels in the eye. The call comes as Indonesian health data projects a continued rise in diabetes cases, with an estimated one in ten citizens currently living with the condition.

Crude Oil Prices Rise, Energy Stocks Soar

Shares of Indonesian energy companies rallied on Monday, buoyed by a surge in global crude oil prices above US$90 per barrel. The gains were driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where attacks on tankers and a Kuwaiti desalination plant have heightened supply disruption fears. While most oil and gas stocks advanced, PT Perusahaan Gas Negara ended the day flat.

KPK Arrests West Lombok Regent in Sting Operation Over Project Kickbacks

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation. The case allegedly involves the receipt of bribes related to various projects within the West Lombok Regency administration. A total of 19 individuals, including civil servants and private sector representatives, were detained alongside evidence of hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash.

Police Detain Two Suspects in Coal Procurement Case, Uncover Modus Operandi

The Indonesian Police's Corruption Eradication Corps has detained two suspects in a coal procurement corruption case involving PT PLN Batubara, which caused state losses of Rp 38.9 billion. The suspects, an investment manager and a division head, allegedly manipulated documents and ignored mandatory verification procedures to disburse financing. Authorities have seized assets worth Rp 14.4 billion as part of recovery efforts.

Prabowo Targets All Schools Renovated by 2029, Funds Sent Directly

President Prabowo Subianto has set a target for all Indonesian schools to be fully renovated by 2029, with funds to be transferred directly to headteachers. The government plans to complete 77,000 school renovations this year, followed by 100,000 annually in 2027 and 2028. The direct funding mechanism will be overseen by school committees comprising parents and teachers, a system Prabowo claims has already yielded excellent results.

KPK Transfers Seven People, Including West Lombok Regent, to Jakarta Following Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transferred seven individuals, including West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini, to Jakarta for intensive questioning after a sting operation. The anti-graft agency initially detained 19 people in the operation, which marks the 17th such action by the KPK in 2026. The case highlights ongoing corruption issues within regional governance, with the KPK securing the regent's office and other strategic locations as part of the investigation.

Prabowo: I Am Attacked for Wanting to Provide Nutritious Meals

President Prabowo Subianto has claimed that he is being attacked for his flagship free nutritious meal programme, which critics have labelled wasteful. He expressed bewilderment at the criticism, highlighting that the initiative aims to combat child stunting and feed malnourished children, while questioning why past resource losses did not draw similar scrutiny.

Europe Sizzles, These Businesses Reap the Profits

Extreme heatwaves across Europe are creating new business opportunities as households and governments invest in cooling and heat-resilient infrastructure. Demand for air conditioners is surging, benefiting Asian manufacturers like Midea, while spending is shifting towards materials and technologies that can withstand higher temperatures. This trend is driving growth in sectors ranging from consumer electronics to specialised construction materials and power grid reinforcement.

Pandeglang Primary School Students Persevere in Dilapidated Classrooms

Pupils at SDN Padahayu 2 in Pandeglang, Banten, have been learning in damaged classrooms for six years due to the building's age and weather conditions. Despite the unsafe and uncomfortable environment, students and teachers continue their lessons with enthusiasm. The school is appealing for urgent repairs to provide a more suitable and secure learning space.

Java Shaken by Five Earthquakes Today, Expert Issues Reminder

The island of Java experienced five minor earthquakes on Monday, with tremors recorded in East Java, Banten, West Java, and Bali. Seismologist Daryono explained that these micro-earthquakes are not trivial events but provide vital structural information about the Earth's crust. He warned that while small quakes can release energy gradually, they may also act as foreshocks or indicate stress accumulation that could trigger a larger event.

Industry Ministry Accelerates Digital Transformation of Pharmaceuticals Through AI Adoption

Indonesia's Ministry of Industry is accelerating the digital transformation of the national pharmaceutical sector by facilitating the adoption of artificial intelligence. The initiative, part of the Making Indonesia 4.0 roadmap, aims to boost efficiency, productivity, and global competitiveness. A proof-of-concept project involving predictive maintenance AI is currently being implemented at PT Kalbe Farma.

Forestry Ministry to Deploy Drones for Early Detection of Illegal Logging

The Indonesian Minister of Forestry, Raja Juli Antoni, is pushing for the use of advanced drone technology to strengthen forest monitoring. The initiative aims to provide ground teams with faster, more accurate data to identify illegal logging, land clearing, and mining activities. The ministry will also evaluate existing equipment to determine the need for upgrades or new acquisitions.

Prabowo Vows Firm Action Against Corruption in Free Nutritious Meal Programme

President Prabowo Subianto has acknowledged instances of corruption and mismanagement within the flagship Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. He stated that while it is disheartening, the government will take decisive and impartial action against any individuals involved in misappropriation. Prabowo emphasised that there will be no favouritism in the crackdown on those exploiting the social welfare initiative.

Home Ministry urges local governments to ensure housing aid targets the poor

The Ministry of Home Affairs has called on regional governments to accelerate data collection and ensure the Bedah Rumah (Housing Renovation) programme benefits only the most impoverished citizens. The ministry highlighted that only 124,376 potential recipients have been identified so far, far short of the 400,000 target for uninhabitable homes in 2026. Local authorities are urged to prioritise extreme poor households using data from the lowest income deciles.

KPK: West Lombok Regent Arrested at Official Residence

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed the arrest of West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini during a sting operation at his official residence. A total of 18 other individuals were also detained in the operation, which marks the 17th such action by the KPK this year. The KPK has sealed several government offices in West Lombok as part of the ongoing investigation.

ID Food Targets 15,360 Warung Pangan Partners Across Indonesia

State-owned food holding company ID Food aims to expand its Warung Pangan partnership network to 15,360 outlets nationwide by December 2026. The initiative seeks to strengthen food distribution, stabilise prices, and shorten supply chains. The programme will also leverage transaction data to analyse demand patterns and identify regions requiring supply reinforcement.

Following Biodiesel Success, Energy Ministry Encourages Private Sector to Build Ethanol Plants

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is urging the private sector to invest in ethanol production facilities, drawing parallels to the successful mandatory biodiesel programme. The initiative aims to meet the target of 20 per cent bioethanol blending (E20) by January 2028. The government is also revising a presidential regulation to support the mandate, while highlighting that securing sufficient local feedstock remains a critical challenge.

Protecting MSMEs in the Digital Realm

The Indonesian government has introduced new regulations to fortify the digital trade ecosystem, where micro and small enterprises constitute over 97 per cent of e-commerce businesses. The rules mandate transparent platform fees and easier access to business identification numbers, aiming to provide a stronger foundation for small traders. These measures are designed to ensure the survival and upgrading of MSMEs, which are considered the backbone of the national digital economy.

President Becomes Victim, Minister Immediately Steps In to Do This

The Kenyan government has launched a forensic investigation after a cyberattack breached the official website of the presidency. The Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy confirmed that no unauthorised access to sensitive data or loss of information has been detected so far. Mitigation protocols were activated immediately, and access to the presidential site has been temporarily restricted while government systems remain secure and operational.

Chinese Companies Agree to Strengthen Human Resources and Safeguard Investment in Indonesia

Chinese enterprises in Indonesia, led by the China Chamber of Commerce, have committed to improving compliance with labour regulations and developing local talent. The commitment was highlighted during a forum in Jakarta, where tax and regulatory updates were also discussed to ensure administrative compliance. The Indonesian government is pushing for these measures to serve as a foundation for sustainable investment.

NTB Quarantine Agency Assesses Mangoes as Potential New Export Commodity

The Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB) Quarantine Agency has identified mangoes as a promising new export commodity that could boost the region's economy. The province currently produces a large volume of mangoes, but the harvest is primarily sold domestically. Officials emphasise that consistent quality and supply continuity are key requirements for penetrating international markets.

Peatland Firefighting Efforts Continue in Kubu Raya

Firefighting teams in Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan, are struggling to extinguish peatland fires due to the challenging terrain where flames spread underground. The operation is hampered by distant water sources and limited equipment, with officials warning that only heavy rainfall is likely to fully extinguish the blaze. Authorities have urged residents to refrain from slash-and-burn land clearing to prevent further outbreaks.

Motive Behind Shooting of Moroccan National in Bali Revealed, Suspect Was Drunk

Police in Badung, Bali, have revealed that the shooting of a Moroccan national and a security guard at a Canggu nightclub was motivated by the suspect's intoxication. The suspect, identified as HSH, opened fire after becoming emotional during a dispute, injuring both victims. Authorities have charged the suspect with illegal firearm possession and aggravated assault, underscoring a commitment to maintaining security in the island's tourism areas.

BI Riau Distributes Record Rp8 Billion in Sovereign Rupiah Expedition to Remote Islands

Bank Indonesia's Riau representative office has launched its largest-ever Sovereign Rupiah Expedition, distributing Rp8 billion to ensure currency availability in the province's frontier, outermost, and remote regions. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Indonesian Navy, targets islands such as Rupat and Bengkalis. The programme also includes financial literacy campaigns and a mangrove planting effort as part of its community outreach.

Two-Year Government Evaluation: Prabowo Claims 108 Issues Resolved, 'Not a Small Achievement'

President Prabowo Subianto opened a plenary cabinet session to evaluate the first two years of his administration, highlighting the resolution of 108 issues amidst global turmoil. He urged his ministers to remain steadfast and focus on solving national problems, stating the evaluation was not intended to find fault or compare performance with previous governments. The meeting was deliberately held mid-year ahead of the Independence Day celebrations to assess achievements and accelerate pending policies.

Drought Expands and Begins to Impact Agriculture

Agricultural regions across West Java, Central Java, and South Kalimantan are beginning to feel the effects of the intensifying dry season. Farmers are adapting by using water pumps, deep wells, and water tankers, while the government has deployed early warning systems and drought-resistant seeds. The Ministry of Agriculture reports that mitigation efforts have significantly reduced crop failure compared to the 2015 El Niño event.

Doctors urge routine eye checks for diabetics to prevent blindness

Medical experts are calling on people with diabetes to undergo regular retinal screenings to prevent diabetic retinopathy, a complication that can lead to blindness. The condition often develops without early symptoms, and many patients only seek treatment when significant damage has already occurred. Data from Indonesia's national health insurance indicates millions of diabetics are at risk, with a substantial number already requiring advanced intervention.

Dengue Cases in Klaten Drop Significantly, Public Urged to Remain Vigilant

Dengue haemorrhagic fever (DBD) cases in Klaten Regency, Central Java, have seen a significant decline in the first half of 2026, with only 112 cases and one death reported up to week 26. This marks a sharp drop from the same period last year, which health officials attribute to heightened public awareness and active participation in mosquito nest eradication programmes. Residents are nonetheless urged to maintain environmental cleanliness to prevent a resurgence.

Health Ministry's 2025 Budget Realisation Hits Five-Year Low Amid Spending Blocks

Indonesia's Ministry of Health reported its lowest budget realisation in five years for 2025, reaching only 82.9% of its allocated funds. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin attributed the shortfall primarily to a Rp12.3 trillion budget block affecting key programmes like tuberculosis control and cancer screening. Despite the low absorption, the ministry noted an increase in non-tax state revenue and maintained that unspent funds were largely due to ongoing procurement processes rather than programme cancellations.

Philippines Accuses China Coast Guard of Injuring Sailor in South China Sea Clash

The Philippine military has accused the China Coast Guard of striking a Filipino sailor with a baton during a confrontation near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal. The incident occurred as Chinese forces attempted to block a resupply mission to a grounded Philippine navy vessel that serves as a garrison. The clash adds to escalating tensions between the two nations over competing territorial claims in the South China Sea.

Ministry Highlights Crucial Role of Men in Preparing for Marriage and Fatherhood

Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga/BKKBN) has stressed the importance of men's involvement in marriage preparation, emphasising that childcare is a shared responsibility. The ministry noted that over 25 percent of Indonesian children experience 'fatherlessness', with rates slightly higher in rural areas. Through its 'Exemplary Fathers of Indonesia' movement, the government is encouraging prospective husbands to be emotionally and physically present fathers.

Ade Kuswara Claims IDR 8.5 Billion Was for Operational Costs, Not Bribery

Former Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang testified in a corruption trial that IDR 8.5 billion received from an entrepreneur was a personal loan for operational expenses, not a bribe. He detailed using the funds for community visits, spending up to IDR 20 million per day. The prosecution alleges the money was a bribe to secure government projects worth IDR 107 billion.

Komnas HAM Urges Ministries to Strengthen Human Rights Policy Implementation

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has called on seven ministries and agencies to improve the implementation of human rights-based policies following its 2025 assessment. The evaluation highlighted gaps between existing regulations and actual practice, particularly in access to services for vulnerable groups. The BKKBN received the highest score, while the Ministry of Transportation scored lowest due to concerns over the protection of ship crew members.

Police Name Three Suspects in Rp38.9 Billion Coal Financing Corruption Case

Indonesia's anti-corruption police have named three suspects in an alleged corruption case involving coal procurement financing, which resulted in state losses of Rp38.9 billion. The case centres on a loan facility provided by state-owned asset management firm PT PPA to PT BAS between 2019 and 2020. Investigators suspect irregularities in risk analysis and document verification, as well as manipulation of escrow account statements.

Prabowo Establishes State-Owned Export Monopoly for Strategic Commodities

President Prabowo Subianto has announced the formation of PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia, a new state-owned enterprise that will act as the sole exporter for key commodities including nickel, palm oil, and coal. The policy aims to eliminate under-invoicing practices that have allegedly cost the state hundreds of billions of dollars in lost revenue. While the move could significantly boost state income and strengthen Indonesia's bargaining position in global markets, it raises concerns about state capitalism deterring private investment and squeezing producer margins.

South Korea's Economic Slowdown Curbs Demand for Indonesian Migrant Workers

The Indonesian Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection reports that South Korea's economic slowdown has reduced demand for Indonesian migrant workers, particularly in the industrial region of Gyeongnam. A planned Visa Metropolitan scheme for the shipbuilding sector has also been suspended pending a review by South Korea's Ministry of Justice. Indonesia is using this period to upskill its workforce through the 'SMK Go Global' programme to ensure workers are ready when demand recovers.

KPK Detains 19 in West Lombok Regent Sting Operation, 7 Flown to Jakarta

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained 19 individuals in a sting operation targeting West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini. Seven of those detained, including the regent, have been transported to the KPK headquarters in Jakarta for further questioning. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those arrested.

Megawati Receives Visit from Moroccan Ambassador, Invited to Morocco

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri received a visit from Moroccan Ambassador Redouane Houssaini at her residence in Jakarta. The ambassador extended an invitation for Megawati to visit Morocco, while both figures reflected on the historic ties between the two nations dating back to President Sukarno's era. The discussion also covered bilateral cooperation, education, and global issues such as green energy and food security.

Finance Ministry: Indonesia Financial Centre to Attract Long-Term Foreign Investment

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance has clarified that the proposed Indonesia Financial Centre (PFII) is designed to attract long-term foreign investment, preventing the rapid capital outflows often seen in the stock market. The House of Representatives and the government have agreed to advance the PFII bill, aiming to deepen the financial sector and strengthen real sector financing.

Mataram City Government Proposes IDR 1 Billion for Repairs to Four Primary Schools

The Mataram City Education Office has identified four state primary schools requiring urgent repairs, with a proposed budget exceeding IDR 1 billion. Issues range from a shortage of classrooms to dangerous structural damage, including sinking foundations. The office hopes to secure funding through the revised regional budget or the following year's budget.

Rupiah weakens on prospect of Fed holding interest rates higher for longer

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar on Monday, influenced by expectations that the Federal Reserve will maintain higher interest rates for an extended period. Renewed inflation concerns, driven by rising oil prices amid escalating US-Iran tensions, are bolstering the dollar. Disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz are adding a risk premium to oil markets.

President Prabowo: Our Judges' Salaries Have Risen 300 Percent, Now Above Singapore's

President Prabowo Subianto announced that Indonesian judges' salaries have increased by up to 300 percent, placing the Chief Justice's remuneration above that of their Singaporean counterpart. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, he stated the pay rise, the first in 12 years, is intended to improve judges' welfare and dignity. Prabowo emphasised that the government does not want judges to be susceptible to bribery due to poor living conditions.

Indonesia's First Aircraft Carrier, Giuseppe Garibaldi, to Arrive on 20 September 2026

The Indonesian Navy is preparing to receive its first aircraft carrier, the Giuseppe Garibaldi, a grant from Italy, which is scheduled to arrive on 20 September 2026. The Navy has sent 100 personnel to Italy for training to operate the vessel and is preparing Lampung Naval Base as its home port. The arrival is targeted ahead of the Indonesian Armed Forces anniversary in October 2026.

Canggu Bar Shooter Tests Positive for Drugs After Arrest

The suspect in a brutal shooting at a Canggu nightlife venue that injured a security guard and a Moroccan tourist has tested positive for drugs. Police revealed the Indonesian national, who was under the influence of alcohol, tested positive for THC, MDMA, and amphetamines following his arrest. The perpetrator was apprehended at Soekarno-Hatta Airport while attempting to flee to Kuala Lumpur after hiding the Glock pistol used in the attack at his Jakarta residence.

West Lombok Regent Arrested in KPK Sting Operation, Hundreds of Millions in Cash Seized

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation. Authorities seized cash amounting to hundreds of millions of rupiah and several documents. The regent and six other individuals are being transported to Jakarta for further examination before their legal status is determined.

MSMEs as a Pillar of the People's Economy in the Modern Era

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) remain a crucial pillar of Indonesia's economy, absorbing significant labour and driving local growth. However, the sector faces challenges in the digital age, including limited capital, human resource quality, and competition from imports. Government support through financing, training, and digitalisation is deemed essential to enhance their competitiveness and ensure sustainable, inclusive economic development.

UGM Expert Highlights Dangers of Diabetic Retinopathy Affecting 5.2 Million Indonesians

A professor from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has warned that nearly 40 per cent of diabetes patients in Indonesia, or an estimated 5.2 million people, suffer from diabetic retinopathy. The condition, which damages the blood vessels in the retina, often goes undetected because the eye appears normal externally. Experts stress that regular eye examinations are crucial to prevent severe vision impairment and permanent blindness.

Trump Threatens More Strikes on Iran as Tensions Escalate in the Middle East

US President Donald Trump has threatened to launch further attacks on Iran, citing the need to honour fallen American soldiers, as the conflict in the Middle East intensifies. The US Central Command confirmed it had struck Iranian targets for a ninth consecutive night, focusing on military capabilities. The renewed hostilities have derailed a ceasefire agreement previously mediated by Pakistan.

Finance Ministry: 0% Tax Incentive for PFII to be Regulated via Government Regulation

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance has clarified that the proposed 0% income tax incentive for financial services in the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII) will be subject to specific criteria outlined in a forthcoming Government Regulation. Officials stressed that the incentive is designed to attract foreign investment and will still be subject to the Global Minimum Tax. The initiative aims to repatriate Indonesian investors who currently use special purpose vehicles in foreign jurisdictions.

Nakhla Tour Expands Services, Opens Bandung Branch for West Java Pilgrims

Nakhla Tour has inaugurated a new branch office in Bandung to provide closer and more accessible Umrah and Hajj services to the large Muslim community in West Java. The company, which operates under PT Anugerah Dwi Dutawisata, noted that a significant portion of its existing pilgrims already originate from the Bandung area, motivating the expansion. The new office aims to offer more personalised and transparent services, including direct guidance from scholars educated in Medina.

Yusril: Persecution of Transgender Women in Bogor Cannot Be Justified

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has condemned the persecution of a transgender community in Bogor, stating such vigilante actions have no place in a state governed by law. He clarified that Presidential Regulation No. 111 of 2025, which addresses LGBTQ propaganda as a non-military threat, must not be misinterpreted as legitimising intimidation or violence. The minister affirmed that all citizens, including LGBTQ individuals, retain constitutional rights and are entitled to legal protection.

KPK Arrests West Lombok Regent, Seizes Hundreds of Millions in Cash

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation, seizing hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash. The arrest is linked to alleged bribery involving projects within the West Lombok regency administration. A total of 19 individuals, including government officials and private sector representatives, were detained for questioning.

Prabowo Says Closure of 250 State Firms Saves Rp 50 Trillion

President Prabowo Subianto announced that the restructuring of 250 state-owned enterprises (BUMN) has saved Rp 50 trillion in routine overhead costs. The savings stem from eliminating expenses such as directors' salaries, office rent, and operational bills. The consolidation, managed by Danantara Indonesia, aims to reduce the total number of BUMN from 1,077 to a maximum of 350 by the end of 2026.

KPK Transfers Seven of 19 Detained in West Lombok Regent Sting Operation to Jakarta

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has transported seven individuals to its headquarters in Jakarta following a sting operation that netted 19 people, including West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini. The operation marks the KPK's 17th such action in 2026. The seven detainees will undergo further examination, while the regent's office and other rooms in the West Lombok administration have been sealed.

Zero ODOL Policy Success Requires More Than Sanctions, Experts Say

The success of Indonesia's Zero Over Dimension Over Loading (ODOL) policy, targeted for full implementation by January 2027, hinges on broader transport safety reforms beyond just sanctions. Stakeholders, including the Indonesian House of Representatives and public policy experts, are calling for the integration of vehicle safety ratings and improved standards for motorcycles, which account for the majority of traffic fatalities. The initiative is seen as crucial not only for road safety but also for reducing the financial burden of accident compensation on state insurers.

10 Free 2026 National Children's Day Twibbons, Suitable for Social Media

Indonesia will commemorate the 42nd National Children's Day on 23 July 2026 under the theme 'Love Children, Protect and Build the Future'. The public can participate in the celebrations by using free, specially designed twibbons available online.

Minister Yusril: Presidential Decree 111/2025 Does Not Justify Persecution of LGBTQ Groups

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration and Corrections, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, has clarified that Presidential Decree 111/2025 on National Defence Policy must not be used as a pretext for intimidation or vigilante violence against LGBTQ individuals. He stressed that while the decree addresses non-military threats, including the propagation of LGBTQ lifestyles, it does not authorise citizens to take the law into their own hands. The government maintains that all legal violations must be handled by authorised law enforcement, and the constitutional rights of every citizen remain protected.

Police: Coal financing corruption causes state losses of Rp38 billion

The Indonesian National Police have revealed that alleged corruption in invoice financing for a coal procurement project has resulted in state losses of Rp38 billion. The case involves PT Perusahaan Pengelola Aset (PPA) and PT Bintang Abadi Sampurna (BAS), with three suspects named. Investigators have seized assets worth approximately Rp14.4 billion as part of asset recovery efforts.

Politics for the Common Good, Not Just Power

This opinion piece argues that the true essence of politics is to serve the common good and deliver justice, rather than merely being a struggle for power. It contends that public disillusionment stems from focusing on corrupt practices and scandals, while the real purpose of politics, as envisioned by philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, is to manage societal interests and improve welfare through ethical governance and public services.

Presidential Decree on New Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Expected This Week

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has confirmed that the presidential decree appointing a new Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) will be finalised within days. The position became vacant after Febrie Adriansyah resigned following his naming as a corruption suspect. Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin has submitted several names for high-level positions within the Attorney General's Office to President Prabowo Subianto for approval.

NTT Police to Hold Case Review on Intimidation of Doctor Icha This Week

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Police are scheduled to hold a case review this week regarding the alleged intimidation of the late Doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Doctor Icha. The case involves three members of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives and a veterinarian. Authorities will determine whether to elevate the status of the four individuals from witnesses to suspects following the review.

Lawmaker Questions Age and Cost of Italian Aircraft Carrier Grant Amid Budget Concerns

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has raised concerns over the planned grant of the Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, citing its 40-year age and the substantial operational and retrofit costs. The legislator questioned whether the Ministry of Defence's budget could sustain the vessel, especially given signals that President Prabowo Subianto may reduce military spending in favour of public welfare.

UGM Expert Proposes Restructuring Official Allowances to Fund PPPK Salaries

A public policy expert from Universitas Gadjah Mada has suggested restructuring allowances for government officials as a solution to the ongoing issue of unpaid salaries for Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK). The proposal comes amid concerns that regional governments are struggling to meet payroll obligations due to central budget efficiency measures. The expert warned against imposing new taxes on the public to cover the shortfall, calling instead for a fundamental evaluation of state spending priorities.

Tax Office Assures Babinsa Involvement Not for Hunting Tax Data

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that the involvement of village supervisory non-commissioned officers (Babinsa) is solely to support field coordination, not to hunt for taxpayer data. The statement follows public concern over a new circular on tax compliance supervision. The DJP emphasised that field officers will increasingly rely on digital data analysis and technology rather than expanding mass audits.

President Prabowo Urges Ministers to Learn from Other Countries to Eradicate Hunger

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed his cabinet to study successful hunger eradication programmes in countries such as Brazil, India, China, and Vietnam. He stressed that no Indonesian citizen should suffer from hunger and defended his Free Nutritious Meals programme against critics who label it wasteful, contrasting it with decades of uninvestigated financial leakages.

Drivers Claim Income Drops Despite 8% App Fee Cap

Despite a new government regulation capping app fees at 8 per cent, some Indonesian ride-hailing drivers report a decline in income. The policy, effective 1 July 2026, was intended to benefit drivers who previously faced deductions of 20 per cent or more. However, drivers claim the number of orders has fallen sharply since the cap was introduced.

Prabowo: Cabinet meeting evaluates performance ahead of government's second year

President Prabowo Subianto convened a full cabinet meeting to assess the administration's progress as it approaches its second year, highlighting the resolution of 108 issues amidst global turmoil. He acknowledged persistent challenges including low teacher welfare, extreme poverty, and economic inequality, while warning against complacency. The evaluation, which also covered food security and social programmes, will be compiled into a public report ahead of Independence Day.

Prabowo Targets Full Implementation of Single-Door Export System by 1 September 2026

President Prabowo Subianto has announced that the single-door export policy for strategic commodities, managed by PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (DSI), will be fully implemented by 1 September 2026. The system aims to improve governance and close loopholes for practices like under-invoicing, which Prabowo claims has cost Indonesia up to 50% of its wealth on commodities like palm oil. In its first six weeks of operation, DSI has reportedly managed over USD 10.5 billion in foreign exchange, significantly narrowing the price gap between domestic and international sales.

TNI Habema Seizes OPM Transit Post Belonging to Daniel Aibon Kogoya in Intan Jaya

Indonesian military forces from Koops TNI Habema have seized a hut used as a transit base by an armed separatist group in Intan Jaya, Papua. The operation, based on intelligence indicating plans for armed action, aimed to pre-empt security threats and protect civilians. Authorities recovered firearms and military equipment, while urging remaining group members to surrender peacefully.

Kortas Tipikor Names Three Suspects in Coal Procurement Financing Case

The Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) of the Indonesian National Police has named three suspects in an alleged corruption case involving a coal procurement financing scheme. The case centres on a Rp50 billion invoice financing facility provided by state-owned PT PPA to PT BAS, which resulted in an actual disbursement of Rp67.31 billion. Investigators allege that due diligence and risk analysis procedures were deliberately ignored, leading to a state loss of approximately Rp38.8 billion.

BP Tapera: Mass mortgage contract for subsidised housing in Batang to involve MSMEs

Indonesia's Public Housing Savings Agency (BP Tapera) is planning a mass mortgage signing event for approximately 62,000 subsidised housing units in Batang, Central Java, on 30 July 2026. The event will feature 60 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to provide entertainment and refreshments for attendees. The initiative is part of the government's 3 Million Houses Programme, aiming to accelerate affordable housing delivery for low-income citizens.

Acting Riau Governor Highlights High Regional Dependence on Central Government Funds

Acting Riau Governor SF Hariyanto has stated that locally generated revenue (PAD) is often insufficient to finance development, leading to high dependence on central government transfers. He also revealed that the central government still owes Riau Province and its regencies/cities a total of IDR 4.2 trillion in underpaid revenue-sharing funds.

DPR Commission VII: Industries Must Optimise Local Employment and Social Responsibility

The Indonesian House of Representatives Commission VII has urged industrial estate managers to enhance the absorption of local workers and optimise Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes. Chairman Saleh Partaonan Daulay emphasised that while these obligations are already mandated by law, implementation often misses its target, with assistance being symbolic rather than addressing fundamental needs like education and health. The Commission is currently drafting a new Industrial Estates Bill to ensure programmes are measurable, sustainable, and aligned with green industry principles.

BCA Syariah Commences Construction of First 'Ar Rahman' Mosque in Aceh Tamiang

PT Bank BCA Syariah has initiated the construction of the Ar Rahman Mosque in Aceh Tamiang, marking the first of 99 mosques planned across Indonesia under a collaboration with the Cinta Quran Foundation. The initiative, part of the bank's 'Sahabat Berkahmu' brand proposition, aims to transform mosques into centres for economic development and social recovery, particularly in post-disaster areas. The programme also includes a '1 Donation, 2 Kindnesses' scheme to encourage customer participation and amplify social impact.

Prabowo Dismisses Collapse Predictions, Says Indonesia Is Growing Stronger

President Prabowo Subianto has refuted claims that Indonesia is on the verge of collapse, asserting that the nation is instead growing stronger. Speaking during a plenary cabinet meeting, he highlighted the government's achievements in food self-sufficiency and energy preparedness. Prabowo contrasted Indonesia's stability with global turmoil, noting that the country has managed to avoid panic over food security.

IHSG Closes Higher Amid 'Wait and See' Stance on BI Interest Rate Policy

The Indonesia Stock Exchange composite index closed higher on Monday as investors adopted a cautious stance ahead of Bank Indonesia's upcoming policy meeting. Market participants are closely watching for signals on the direction of the benchmark interest rate, which has already been raised three times this year. Analysts suggest that a clear and balanced policy outlook could support the index, while a more aggressive tightening signal may trigger short-term pressure on rate-sensitive sectors.

LPS: Decline in Unbanked Population Proves Economy is Moving

The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has stated that the decreasing number of people without bank accounts indicates sustained economic activity. The unbanked population is reportedly shrinking by 2 million people annually, leaving 15 million individuals without an account. The LPS also noted an increase in active accounts and high-value deposits, signalling positive microeconomic movement.

Tax Office assures marketplace tax will not trigger product price hikes

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has assured the public that the new marketplace tax mechanism will not lead to higher product prices. The policy merely shifts the responsibility of collecting the 0.5% income tax from sellers to the marketplace platforms themselves. The regulation, effective from August 2026, applies only to sellers with an annual turnover exceeding Rp500 million.

Tanker Explodes and Burns in Strait of Hormuz, Crew Rescued

An oil tanker caught fire and was left adrift in the Strait of Hormuz after being struck by a projectile, though its crew was safely rescued. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed the vessel was attacked while attempting to use an unsafe route under US pressure, warning that ships not using Iranian waters risk accidents. The incident highlights escalating tensions over control of the strategic waterway, which Iran has previously blockaded during its conflict with the United States and Israel.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry Repatriates 1,203 Citizens from Online Scam Centres in Myanmar

Indonesia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has successfully repatriated 1,203 citizens who were trapped in online scam operations in Myanmar between February and July 2026. The victims, lured by fraudulent high-wage job offers in Thailand, were illegally transported to Myawaddy and forced to work under exploitative conditions. The ministry has urged the public to exercise caution regarding overseas job offers and to use official placement channels to prevent human trafficking.

Prabowo Says S&P Backs Danantara Sovereign Indonesia, Maintains Stable Outlook

President Prabowo Subianto stated that global rating agency Standard & Poor's (S&P) has given a positive assessment of the newly formed PT Danantara Sovereign Indonesia (DSI), contrary to earlier fears of a downgrade. S&P reportedly views the establishment of DSI as a strategic move that could boost state revenue, while maintaining Indonesia's stable outlook and investment-grade rating. Prabowo emphasised that while international ratings are important, the nation's economic strength ultimately relies on its strong domestic fundamentals.

West Lombok Regent Caught in KPK Sting Operation Over Alleged Project Kickbacks

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested the Regent of West Lombok, Lalu Ahmad Zaini, in a sting operation. He is suspected of receiving illicit payments related to various projects within the West Lombok district government. The anti-graft agency also detained 18 other individuals and seized cash and documents as evidence.

UGM expert urges public not to normalise vision loss from ageing and diabetes

Professor Muhammad Bayu Sasongko from Universitas Gadjah Mada warns against normalising blurred vision as a typical consequence of ageing or diabetes, stressing that this misconception often prevents patients from seeking early treatment. He highlighted that vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is largely preventable with regular check-ups and proper management. The call comes amid rising diabetes prevalence in Indonesia, where an estimated one in ten people live with the condition.

Policewomen's School Opens Class 59, Enrols 709 Cadets

The Indonesian Policewomen's School (Sepolwan) has commenced the 59th class of its non-commissioned officer (Bintara) training programme, welcoming 709 female cadets. The ceremony was led by a high-ranking police official who emphasised the development of technical competence and professional ethics. The programme aims to produce policewomen capable of delivering excellent public service through the Integrated Police Service Centre (SPKT).

Garlic Prices Soar Across Indonesia, Surpassing Government Reference Price

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has reported a significant surge in garlic prices across Indonesia, with the national average reaching Rp42,561 per kilogram in the third week of July 2026, well above the government's sales reference price. The number of regions experiencing price hikes has expanded to 271 districts/cities, with the highest prices recorded in Papua. In contrast, the prices of shallots and chillies have shown a declining trend during the same period.

Manpower Ministry: 2025 Wage Subsidy Assistance Realisation Reaches 95 Percent of 15 Million Worker Target

The Indonesian Manpower Ministry reported that the distribution of the 2025 Wage Subsidy Assistance (BSU) has reached 95 percent of its target, covering 15 million workers. Minister Yassierli attributed the remaining 5 percent shortfall to data discrepancies, with total disbursements reaching IDR 9.63 trillion out of an allocated IDR 10.32 trillion. The ministry also highlighted the performance of other strategic programmes, including a national apprenticeship scheme and the Job Loss Insurance (JKP) programme.

Acting Riau Governor Views Regional Bonds as Safe, Legal Alternative Financing

Acting Riau Governor SF Hariyanto has proposed regional bonds as a viable alternative financing model amid fiscal pressures affecting many districts. The suggestion comes as several regions face delays in salary and allowance payments due to the central government's unrealised transfer of funds. Hariyanto emphasised that regional bonds are a safe, legal, and measurable financing option that does not burden the public.

Aircraft Carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi to Arrive in Indonesia on 20 September 2026

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier, the Giuseppe Garibaldi (C551), is scheduled to arrive on 20 September 2026. The Indonesian Navy has been preparing for its arrival, including sending 100 personnel to Italy for training as crew members. The announcement was made by a Defence Ministry official during a parliamentary hearing.

TNI Headquarters: No Internal Discussion Yet on Babinsa Assisting Tax Compliance Supervision

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Headquarters has stated there have been no internal discussions regarding a plan by the Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) to involve village supervisory non-commissioned officers (Babinsa) in monitoring taxpayer compliance. The DJP recently issued a circular outlining a new field-based information gathering approach that includes building networks with Babinsa and community police officers (Bhabinkamtibmas). The TNI's statement suggests a lack of coordination with the military on a policy that could significantly expand the tax office's surveillance reach down to the village level.

KPK Arrests 19 in West Lombok Sting Operation, Including Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained 19 individuals, including West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini, in a sting operation. The arrests are linked to alleged illicit payments related to projects within the West Lombok Regency administration. Seven of the detainees will be transferred to Jakarta for further questioning.

Former KPK Investigator Highlights Hotman Paris's Privileged Press Conference at Prosecutor's Office

Former Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) investigator Yudi Purnomo has criticised the Attorney General's Office for allowing lawyer Hotman Paris to hold a formal press conference on its premises, calling it a privilege that undermines public trust. Hotman Paris is representing former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, who has been named a suspect in a corruption case. Yudi urged the Attorney General to investigate who authorised the facility and to purge the office of Febrie's loyalists to restore credibility in handling cases involving coal supply to power plants, Krakatau Steel, and Asabri.

Airlangga Compares RI-Singapore Subsea Cable to Jakarta-Bogor: 'No Traffic Jams on This Digital Highway'

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, has officially launched the Nongsa-Changi subsea cable system, comparing its 50-kilometre length to the often-congested Jakarta-Bogor route. The high-speed digital link between Batam and Singapore boasts a capacity exceeding 1.6 petabytes and is hailed as the physical foundation of a new digital corridor. Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong emphasised the project would unlock greater economic opportunities and skills development for both nations and the wider ASEAN region.

Police Arrest Four More Suspects in Sampang Gang Rape Case, Two Are Minors

Police in Sampang, East Java, have arrested four additional suspects in the gang rape of a 15-year-old girl, bringing the total number of arrests to 17. Two of the newly detained suspects are minors. The assaults reportedly occurred six times between February and June 2026 across three districts.

Jambi Police Hunt Bulgarian National for Hacking 6,609 Bank Accounts

The Jambi Regional Police are hunting a Bulgarian national suspected of masterminding a cyber heist that compromised 6,609 customer accounts at Bank Jambi. The attack, which occurred in February 2026, resulted in losses of IDR 144 billion, with funds rapidly converted into cryptocurrency and transferred to overseas digital wallets. Authorities have arrested three accomplices and frozen IDR 18.94 billion in assets, while the main suspect remains at large.

Prabowo Claims Indonesia's Chief Justice Salary Now Surpasses Singapore's

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a nearly 300% salary increase for judges after a 12-year freeze, asserting that the Chief Justice of Indonesia's Supreme Court now earns more than his Singaporean counterpart. He also revealed that the most junior Indonesian judges now out-earn their Malaysian peers. The President has further instructed the Housing Minister to prioritise building residences for judges, registrars, and court officers to uphold their dignity and prevent corruption.

Kortas Tipikor Seizes Rp 14.4 Billion in Assets in Coal Project Corruption Case

The Indonesian Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has seized assets worth Rp 14.4 billion from three suspects in a corruption case involving investment financing for a coal project. The alleged financial manipulation caused state losses estimated at Rp 38.9 billion. Authorities are continuing to investigate and may implicate additional parties.

Education Ministry Opens Integrated National School Admissions from 21-24 July

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education will open the New Student Admission System for Integrated National Schools at the junior and senior high levels from 21 to 24 July 2026. Minister Abdul Mu'ti stressed that the ministry is not collaborating with any party to guarantee admission or profit from the process. The programme is exclusively for high-achieving students from the same district as the school, with only 40 students accepted per level in the inaugural year.

PFII Business Activities to Use Foreign Currency, Says Finance Minister

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa announced that business activities within the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII) will be conducted in foreign currency. The provision is part of the PFII Bill, which is scheduled for ratification and aims to enhance Indonesia's competitiveness as a global financial hub. The bill also includes special tax incentives, immigration facilities, and the establishment of a dedicated court and arbitration body.

Police Investigate Shooting of Motorcycle Taxi Driver Who Thwarted Motorcycle Theft in Matraman

A motorcycle taxi driver in East Jakarta was shot in the thigh while attempting to stop a motorcycle theft. Police are currently investigating the crime scene and have questioned two witnesses, but the masked perpetrators remain at large.

CCTV Captures Moment Armed Police Officer Robs Jewellery Shop in Aceh

An active police officer has been arrested in South Aceh for the armed robbery of a jewellery shop. The Aceh Regional Police have taken over the investigation to ensure a professional and impartial process. The suspect has confessed, with economic pressure cited as a preliminary motive.

KPK Detains 19 Individuals, Including West Lombok Regent, in Sting Operation

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained 19 people in a sting operation in West Lombok, including the region's Regent, Lalu Ahmad Zaini. The arrests took place at multiple locations, including the regent's official residence. The KPK is currently conducting initial examinations, with seven individuals being transported to Jakarta for further questioning.

MSME Ministry Targets 3.6% Entrepreneurship Ratio by 2029

Indonesia's Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises is aiming to boost the national entrepreneurship ratio to 3.6 per cent by 2029. The strategy involves strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem through collaboration with universities to cultivate more young business founders. A presidential regulation serves as the framework for this multi-stakeholder effort, which includes integrating business incubation and digital platforms to support millions of MSMEs.

North Sumatra Police: Methamphetamine Seizures Show Rising Trend Over Past Three Years

The North Sumatra Regional Police reported a consistent increase in methamphetamine seizures over the past three years, with 1.5 tonnes confiscated in 2024 and 1.7 tonnes in 2025. In the first half of 2026 alone, authorities have already seized 948 kilograms, highlighting the province's intensified crackdown on drug trafficking. The police are strengthening collaboration with customs, airport authorities, the military, and even the Malaysian consulate to stem the flow of narcotics into the region.

Woman in Official Car Delivers Clothes to NTB Police Mobile Brigade HQ Holding Graft-Suspect Regent

A woman driving a West Lombok Regency government vehicle arrived at the NTB Police Mobile Brigade headquarters, where Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini is reportedly being held after a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation. She told guards she was delivering clothes but declined to say for whom. The KPK confirmed the arrest and has sealed the offices of the Regent and a senior public works official.

House Commission I Approves Grant of Italian Aircraft Carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I has approved the acceptance of a grant of the aircraft carrier ITS Giuseppe Garibaldi from the Italian government. The vessel, valued at €54 million, is expected to strengthen Indonesia's maritime defence and humanitarian operation capabilities without burdening the state budget. The approval follows a formal request from the Ministry of Defence based on an offer from the Italian Parliament.

UI Expert: Glycaemic Control and Early Screening Key to Preventing Diabetes Complications

A professor from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Medicine has warned that uncontrolled high blood sugar can damage all organs supplied by blood vessels if not detected and treated early. Prof. Yunir highlighted that a significant number of undiagnosed diabetics in Indonesia are at risk, stressing that routine screening and glycaemic control are essential to prevent complications such as diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to blindness.

Prabowo's Housing Aid: Indonesians Can Own Homes with Rp 727,000 Monthly Instalments

President Prabowo Subianto has announced a government housing scheme offering low-income Indonesians mortgages with monthly instalments as low as Rp 727,000. The initiative includes the FLPP liquidity facility and a self-help housing stimulus programme providing Rp 20 million per home for 400,000 beneficiaries. Prabowo has also requested a review to potentially increase the number of recipients and explore providing building materials instead of cash.

BP3MI and BPPD Kepri Investigate Alleged Confinement of Woman from Tanjungpinang in Myanmar

Indonesian authorities in the Riau Islands are investigating reports that a woman from Tanjungpinang is being held captive in Myanmar. The case emerged alongside a similar report from Agam, West Sumatra, after a video allegedly showing the two victims with their hands bound circulated on social media. Officials are coordinating with the Indonesian Embassy in Myanmar to locate the individuals while urging the public to use official channels for overseas employment to avoid trafficking.

Health Coverage Exceeds Singapore and Malaysia, Prabowo: We Are Rich

President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the scale of Indonesia's social assistance programmes, noting that the National Health Insurance (JKN) covers 96.8 million people, a figure he claims is twenty times larger than Singapore's and 3.5 times larger than Malaysia's. He detailed a wide range of government aid, including cash transfers, education scholarships, and energy subsidies, asserting that the breadth of these programmes demonstrates the nation's strength and wealth. The President urged citizens not to underestimate the country, declaring that Indonesia is strong, rich, and will become richer.

Lawyer Swindles Clients, Drains Accounts of Rp 22.8 Billion

A lawyer in Portugal has been arrested for allegedly embezzling approximately €1.2 million (Rp 22.8 billion) from dozens of foreign clients applying for investor residence permits. The suspect is accused of misusing access to client bank accounts, supposedly to expedite the golden visa process, to transfer funds for personal use. Authorities have identified 33 victims so far and are investigating the suspect for aggravated fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering.

House Commission II Hopes 25 Regional Heads Absorb Innovation from Singapore Visit

Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's House Commission II, Bahtra Banong, expressed support for a programme sending 25 regional heads to Singapore to study public service innovations. The initiative, funded by corporate social responsibility from Bayan Group, aims to improve governance, anti-corruption measures, and waste management in their respective regions.

Defence Ministry: Construction of Garibaldi Port in Lampung Reaches 76 Percent

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has reported that the construction of a port facility in Teluk Ratai, Lampung, designated for the aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, is now 76 percent complete. The facility is being prepared ahead of the vessel's scheduled arrival in Indonesia on 20 September 2026. The development includes dredging, mooring facilities, and electrical power upgrades to support the ship's operations.

Chinese and Philippine Militaries Clash in South China Sea, One Injured

The Philippine military has accused the Chinese Coast Guard of attacking one of its personnel with a wooden stick near the Second Thomas Shoal in the disputed South China Sea. The incident, which left a Filipino soldier injured, occurred shortly after Manila lodged a diplomatic protest over a state media video it deemed racist. The clash marks a further escalation in tensions between the two nations over territorial claims in the strategic waterway.

Palace Guarantees Professional and Transparent Law Enforcement Under Prabowo

The Presidential Palace has assured the public that law enforcement under President Prabowo Subianto's administration will be professional and transparent. This statement comes amid scrutiny over the handling of a corruption case involving former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. Adriansyah is currently under investigation for alleged gratification and money laundering.

30 Volunteers Strengthen Education from the Village Level in Tasikmalaya

Thirty volunteers from the Alazka Care foundation have initiated a grassroots education empowerment programme in Kalimanggis Village, Tasikmalaya. The 'Binar Asa' programme focuses on improving teaching quality, renovating classrooms, and supporting child nutrition through collaborative community efforts. This initiative highlights the role of social contribution in complementing government efforts to enhance educational equity in remote areas.

MAKI Warns Hotman Paris's Defence of Febrie Adriansyah Risks Undermining President Prabowo's Anti-Corruption Stance

Anti-corruption watchdog MAKI has criticised defence lawyer Hotman Paris for allegedly attempting to pit the legal process against President Prabowo Subianto in the case of former senior prosecutor Febrie Adriansyah. Boyamin Saiman of MAKI argued that Hotman's claims, including that Febrie is a victim of criminalisation and that the president should intervene, dangerously imply Prabowo supports the suspect over the police and Attorney General's Office. Boyamin further asserted that the evidence, including seized cash and assets, strongly supports the corruption charges and that no presidential permission is required to name Febrie a suspect.

Prabowo: I Want Indonesia to Have a World-Class Digital Government

President Prabowo Subianto has called for the absolute necessity of digitalising government services, criticising the current fragmented system of dozens of incompatible applications. He highlighted the success of a pilot programme integrating social assistance data in 43 regions, which has already registered one million families and eliminated administrative costs. The President stressed that accurate, integrated data across social, education, and health sectors is crucial for achieving the target of zero extreme poverty.

Process of Appointing New Jampidsus in Final Stage, Presidential Decree to Be Signed Soon

The Indonesian government has confirmed that the selection process for a new Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) is in its final stage. Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi stated that the Attorney General has submitted a candidate to replace Febrie Adriansyah, who resigned, and a Presidential Decree formalising the appointment is expected to be signed within days.

House Member Confident Pertamina Can Play Major Role in Masela Block

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XII has expressed confidence that Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) can significantly contribute to the Masela Block project. The legislator highlighted PHE's potential to boost local content and manage the technical, environmental, and commercial aspects of the long-delayed gas field. The project, recently inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto, is expected to strengthen national energy security and generate substantial state revenue.

Indonesia's first aircraft carrier to arrive on 20 September 2026

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the country's first aircraft carrier, the Giuseppe Garibaldi, is scheduled to arrive in Indonesia on 20 September 2026. The Indonesian Navy has been preparing for its arrival by sending 100 personnel to Italy for training and developing supporting infrastructure. The naval base in Lampung is being upgraded to accommodate the vessel ahead of the Indonesian Armed Forces anniversary in October 2026.

Over 73 Percent of Diabetes Sufferers in Indonesia Undiagnosed, Expert Warns

A University of Indonesia professor has warned that more than 73 percent of diabetes cases in the country remain undiagnosed, posing a serious health threat as many patients only seek treatment after developing fatal complications. The high rate of undetected diabetes accelerates organ damage and increases the risk of comorbidities such as hypertension and obesity. The expert is urging the public to undergo regular medical check-ups for early detection.

Prabowo Dismisses Collapse Predictions, Says Indonesia Growing Stronger Amid Global Crises

President Prabowo Subianto has dismissed persistent predictions of Indonesia's economic collapse, asserting that the nation is instead growing stronger. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, he credited his ministers for their initiative and highlighted achievements in food and energy self-sufficiency. He cautioned against complacency despite the positive outlook.

Hotman Paris Apologises After Outburst During Febrie Case Press Conference

High-profile lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has issued multiple apologies following widespread condemnation of his conduct during a press conference at the Attorney General's Office. His remarks, which included telling a journalist 'don't you have a brain' and invoking President Prabowo Subianto's name while defending his client, drew sharp criticism from journalist associations, government officials, and political parties. Hotman subsequently apologised to journalists and to President Prabowo, the Attorney General, and the National Police Chief, stating his emotional outburst was solely a legal tactic and had no political motivation.

APAC Broadband Summit Charts AI-Driven Digital Future

Government officials, standards bodies, and telecom operators from across the Asia-Pacific region convened in Bangkok to discuss the development of AI-ready broadband infrastructure. The summit highlighted the need for next-generation networks, computing synergy, and cross-border connectivity to support the AI era, with Indonesian operators Telkomsel and Surge contributing to the dialogue on digital inclusion and value creation. Key outcomes included a new MOU between NIDA and the WBBA to co-develop industry standards and smart city benchmarks.

JCI Continues Rally, Strengthens 0.91% to 6,231 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) closed nearly 1% higher on Monday, driven by broad-based buying across most sectors. The rally occurred as investors adopted a wait-and-see stance ahead of key central bank policy decisions due this week, including Bank Indonesia's interest rate announcement. Market attention is also focused on external factors such as Middle East tensions and upcoming rate decisions from other major central banks.

BCA Preserves Performing Arts Sustainability Through Organisational Development

PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) is bolstering the sustainability of Indonesia's performing arts ecosystem by providing organisational and governance training to art studios. The 'Sanggar Bakti BCA' programme aims to address challenges such as limited funding and weak management, helping communities achieve economic independence. The initiative includes intensive mentoring for selected studios, starting with Citra Art Studio, to enhance both artistic quality and professional management.

Police Arrest Muggers Who Fled During Car Free Day on Rasuna Said

Police have arrested two muggers who attempted to escape after snatching a victim's belongings during the Car Free Day event on HR Rasuna Said in South Jakarta. One suspect was initially caught by residents and transportation officers after falling from his motorbike, while the second was later apprehended by police. Authorities recovered a sickle and three mobile phones believed to be stolen, and have pledged to enhance security coordination for the weekly event.

IHSG Closes 0.91% Higher at 6,231, Extending Rally to Eight Consecutive Days

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index (IHSG) continued its upward trend on Monday, closing 0.91% higher at 6,231.78. The gain marks the eighth straight day of increases for the benchmark index, driven by broad-based sectoral strength. The industrial sector led the rally, while trading volume remained robust with a transaction value of IDR 16.25 trillion.

ODC Task Force Conducts Foot Patrol in Sugapa While Distributing Food Aid

Personnel from the Damai Cartenz Operation (ODC) task force conducted a foot patrol in Sugapa, Central Papua, combining security duties with the distribution of food packages to local residents. The initiative, described as routine, aims to foster a sense of safety and comfort through a humanistic approach. Residents expressed appreciation for the dual focus on security and community welfare.

BPBD Distributes 1.48 Million Litres of Clean Water to Merapi Slope Residents

The Klaten Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has distributed nearly 1.5 million litres of clean water to over 10,000 residents on the slopes of Mount Merapi since mid-June. The ongoing dry season has caused water shortages, making the aid crucial for 3,272 families across four villages. The distribution aims to sustain daily needs as local water sources dwindle.

President Prabowo Holds Plenary Cabinet Meeting on Development Programmes

President Prabowo Subianto convened a plenary cabinet session at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Monday, attended by key coordinating ministers and deputies. The meeting is expected to focus on presidential directives to accelerate flagship development programmes. This follows a previous cabinet meeting in March where Prabowo discussed austerity measures in response to potential global crises.

Growth on Paper, Squeezed at Home as Corruption Cuts the Public's Heart

Indonesia's headline economic growth masks deep structural weaknesses, with nearly half the workforce in part-time or informal employment and millions falling out of the middle class. Government programmes like free meals and village cooperatives have created some jobs but fail to address the fundamental need for industrialisation and quality employment. The gap between macroeconomic figures and household realities is widening, leaving many Indonesians struggling with stagnant incomes and rising living costs.

Constitutional Court Warns Against Blame-Shifting Over Flight Delays

The Constitutional Court (MK) has cautioned stakeholders in the aviation sector not to shift responsibility for flight delays, emphasising that passengers are the ultimate victims regardless of the cause. Chief Justice Suhartoyo highlighted the complexity of delay factors, as noted by the Indonesia National Air Carriers Association (INACA), and stressed the need for legal clarity on liability. The court has postponed further hearings to gather additional testimony from airlines including Garuda Indonesia, Pelita Air, and Lion Air.

Agriculture Minister prepares 7,000 water pumps to help Central Java farmers tackle drought

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has announced the provision of 7,000 water pumps to support farmers in Central Java facing drought this dry season. The aid, which also includes seeds and tractors, aims to maintain agricultural productivity in the province, a key national food hub. The central government is targeting a production increase to 10.5 million tonnes by 2026.

At Cabinet Meeting, Prabowo Baffled by Those Calling Free Nutritious Meals a Waste

President Prabowo Subianto expressed astonishment that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is being labelled wasteful, contrasting it with decades of uninvestigated state financial leakage. He stressed the programme's critical role in combating child stunting, which affects at least a quarter of Indonesian children. The remarks were made during a plenary cabinet session focused on accelerating government programme implementation.

438,000 Couples Divorced, Ministry Stresses Marriage Needs More Than Love

Indonesia recorded 438,000 divorces in 2025, prompting the Ministry of Population and Family Development to urge couples to prepare beyond emotional affection. The ministry highlights the necessity of physical, reproductive, mental, and economic readiness to prevent marital breakdowns. Officials also linked premarital preparation to broader national goals, including stunting prevention and optimising the demographic bonus.

Zulhas Confirms 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives Are Not Retailers, Outlines Core Tasks

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has clarified that the newly established 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives will not function as retail shops or supermarkets. Instead, they will serve as government infrastructure for distributing subsidised goods and social assistance directly to villages. The cooperatives will also act as offtakers, purchasing farmers' produce at government-set prices to stabilise the market.

International Financial Centre Bill to be Passed at DPR Plenary Session

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives (DPR) have agreed on the International Financial Centre Bill (RUU PFII), which is set to be ratified at a plenary session on 21 July 2026. The legislation, comprising 10 chapters and 73 articles, establishes the legal framework, institutional structure, and tax incentives for the new financial hub. Key provisions include the formation of an arbitration body, a special court, and facilities such as golden visas and foreign currency transactions to attract global investment.

Economic Growth Projections Slow, Rupiah Closes Weaker at Rp 17,948 per US Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar, nearing the psychological level of Rp 18,000, as second-quarter 2026 economic growth is projected to slow to around 4.9 percent year-on-year. Despite a surge in foreign direct investment, a contraction in domestic investment and sluggish household consumption are expected to drag overall growth below 5 percent. Analysts urge the government to balance its downstreaming agenda with efforts to boost labour-intensive sectors and improve the quality of investment.

DJPb: FLPP in Jambi reaches 3,287 housing units by mid-July

The Directorate General of Treasury in Jambi Province reported that the Housing Financing Liquidity Facility (FLPP) programme has financed 3,287 subsidised housing units as of mid-July 2026, with a total value of IDR 391.5 billion. The programme, supported by 420 developers and eight banks, reflects sustained public demand for affordable housing and is seen as a positive signal for the regional economy. Officials noted the scheme not only aids low-income families but also stimulates local industries, employment, and the building materials sector.

Roy Suryo Not Giving Up, Opens Possibility of Filing Fourth Pre-Trial Motion

Roy Suryo has confirmed he has filed a third pre-trial motion related to the alleged fake diploma case of Joko Widodo, following the rejection of his second motion. He is also considering a fourth motion, which would focus on a claim for compensation based on the partial success of his first pre-trial filing. The third motion is scheduled for a hearing on 28 July 2026.

General Soedirman's 'Divine Inspiration' Strengthens the Red and White Village Cooperative

The Red and White Village Cooperative (KDKMP) programme, described as a 'divine inspiration' received by President Prabowo, is rooted in Indonesia's historical economic thought rather than mysticism. A legislator argues the initiative must be formalised through a Presidential Regulation to ensure legal certainty and good governance, linking it to the economic strategies of Soedirman and Soemitro Djojohadikusumo. The programme is positioned as a constitutional instrument to empower farmers, fishermen, and small businesses in line with Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution.

Gerindra Urges Hotman Paris to Focus on Client, Not Drag President Prabowo into ASABRI Case

The Gerindra Party has urged celebrity lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea to concentrate on defending his client, former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, in the PT ASABRI corruption case. Party spokesperson Bahtra Banong stressed that President Prabowo Subianto should not be implicated in the legal proceedings. This follows Hotman's public claim that Febrie was a presidential asset who helped recover state funds, a statement that drew sharp criticism from Gerindra.

West Java Officially Enters Dry Season, BMKG Warns of El Niño Impact

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has confirmed that all zones in West Java have entered the dry season, with the peak expected between August and September. The agency warns that this year's dry season will be exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon, leading to longer drought periods and below-normal rainfall. Authorities are urging water conservation and have called on stakeholders to prepare mitigation measures against drought and forest fires.

Baznas Strengthens National Collaboration to Build Professional Zakat Fundraiser Ecosystem

Indonesia's National Alms Agency (Baznas) is intensifying national collaboration to professionalise zakat fundraising, urging a shift from pity-based appeals to transparent, knowledge-driven strategies. The initiative, launched through the Baznas Fundraising Forum, aims to unify the vision of zakat institutions and enhance public trust. Baznas leaders emphasised that professional fundraising and demonstrating the transformative impact of zakat are key to encouraging compliance and donor satisfaction.

MPR Holds National Dialogue in Riau, Discusses Regional Bonds

The People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) convened a national dialogue in Pekanbaru, Riau, to explore regional bonds as an alternative financing mechanism and public investment instrument. The forum examined policy aspects, financing opportunities, and the potential for implementation across Indonesia's regions. Senior officials emphasised the need for local governments to adopt a planned mindset and sound governance to achieve fiscal independence through such instruments.

Police Uncover Corruption in Coal Project Financing Involving State-Owned Asset Manager

The Indonesian National Police have exposed a corruption case involving the disbursement of approximately Rp67.31 billion in invoice financing for a coal project, far exceeding the initial Rp50 billion facility. Investigators found that due diligence, document verification, and cash collateral supervision were deliberately ignored or falsified by officials at PT PPA and PT BAS. Two suspects have been detained as the case file has been declared complete and is ready for transfer to the prosecution service.

Indonesian IT Worker Found Dead in Armenia, Foreign Ministry Sends Diplomatic Note

An Indonesian citizen from Maros, South Sulawesi, was found dead under suspicious circumstances in Yerevan, Armenia, with his body bound with duct tape. The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dispatched a diplomatic note and is coordinating with Armenian authorities to ensure consular access and monitor the investigation. Several other Indonesian nationals have been detained in connection with the case, which is being treated as a suspected murder.

House Commission III Chair Warns Asset Forfeiture Bill Must Not Become 'Asset Robbery' by Corrupt Officials

Habiburokhman, Chair of House Commission III, has raised three key concerns regarding the long-awaited Asset Forfeiture Bill, warning it must not be abused by corrupt law enforcement. During a hearing with experts, he questioned the bill's nomenclature, oversight mechanisms, and the management of seized assets. The House is targeting to finalise the bill, which has stalled for decades, by the end of this year.

Askrindo expands insurance protection for fishermen in Sorong

State-owned insurer Askrindo is broadening insurance access for fishermen in Sorong, Southwest Papua, to strengthen risk mitigation in the growing fisheries sector. The initiative, formalised through a memorandum of understanding with the Sorong Coastal Fishing Port Authority, aims to cover personal accident, vessel, micro-business, and housing risks. The move aligns with the region's economic growth, where the fisheries sector recorded a production value exceeding Rp86.2 billion in 2025.

Prabowo Has Closed 250 State-Owned Enterprises by July 2026, 700 More by Year-End

President Prabowo Subianto announced that the consolidation programme managed by Danantara Indonesia has reduced the number of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) by 250 entities as of the end of July 2026. The President expressed shock upon learning that the total number of SOEs had ballooned to 1,077 due to the proliferation of subsidiaries. The government targets a final reduction to a maximum of 350 entities by the end of 2026, streamlining a sector with assets now exceeding US$1 trillion.

Yusril: Presidential Regulation 111/2025 Cannot Justify Persecution of Transgender Individuals

Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra has stated that Presidential Regulation No. 111 of 2025 must not be used as a pretext for persecution. He emphasised that while the regulation identifies LGBTQ propaganda as a non-military threat, it does not authorise vigilante actions or discrimination. Yusril affirmed that all citizens retain constitutional rights and any legal violations must be handled by authorised law enforcement officials.

Strategy for Strengthening Energy Governance Amid Economic Uncertainty

Indonesia's energy sector faces challenges from global geopolitical conflicts, rising oil and gas prices, and inadequate domestic gas infrastructure. CNBC Indonesia and Bank DBS Indonesia hosted an exclusive forum for industry players to discuss managing supply costs and strengthening governance. The event aimed to foster collaboration among stakeholders to achieve resilient energy security and affordable prices.

Tax Chief Confirms PFII to Receive 0% Tax Incentive for Up to 50 Years

The Director General of Taxes has confirmed that businesses in the proposed Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII) will be eligible for a 0% tax rate for up to 50 years. He noted that not all entities, such as expert workers, will receive the full half-century exemption, with separate regulations governing their tax treatment. A senior lawmaker has welcomed the incentive, suggesting it could even be permanent to attract global capital.

HIV Cases in Kukar Rise, Predominantly Affecting Homosexual Groups

The Kutai Kartanegara (Kukar) Health Office reports a cumulative increase in HIV cases, reaching 542 by June 2026, with the majority of new cases found among men who have sex with men (MSM). Health officials are targeting high-risk groups with early screening and PrEP services, while emphasising that the rise in numbers is partly due to improved case detection. Challenges remain in ensuring patients adhere to lifelong antiretroviral treatment and combating social stigma.

Tasikmalaya Declares Emergency as 16,869 Residents Face Water Crisis

A prolonged dry season has triggered a clean water crisis across eight sub-districts in Tasikmalaya Regency, affecting 3,115 families. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has been distributing water supplies, citing dried-up wells and environmental damage as key factors. The drought has also caused agricultural failures on 1,376 hectares of farmland, with the emergency status covering both water shortages and forest fire risks.

South Sulawesi Ministry of Religious Affairs Establishes Child-Friendly Islamic Boarding School Task Force

The South Sulawesi Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs is establishing a multi-tiered Child-Friendly Islamic Boarding School Task Force (Satgas PRA) to combat violence and discrimination. The initiative aims to create a safe and inclusive learning environment for students across the province through cross-sector collaboration. The task force will focus on prevention, monitoring, and rapid response to reports of child rights violations within pesantren.

Manpower Ministry: 95 Percent of 2025 Wage Subsidy Recipients Reached

Indonesia's Manpower Ministry reported that the 2025 Wage Subsidy Assistance (BSU) programme has reached 95 percent of its 15 million target, with the remaining 5 percent unrealised due to data issues. The programme, a government economic stimulus, disbursed approximately IDR 9.63 trillion of its IDR 10.32 trillion budget between June and July 2025. The ministry also highlighted a national apprenticeship programme exceeding its target and a IDR 1.2 trillion Job Loss Insurance scheme for laid-off workers.

Pegadaian Distributes 50 Bekalista Units, Boosting Green Tourism in Yogyakarta

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian, in collaboration with the Indonesia Investment Authority (PIP), has provided 50 electric-assist pedicabs (Bekalista) worth Rp 1.4 billion to support Yogyakarta's green tourism and cultural preservation efforts. The initiative aligns with the local government's low-emission zone programme in the UNESCO-listed Malioboro area, offering a sustainable alternative to fuel-powered motorised becaks. The programme aims to strengthen the micro-enterprise sector, preserve the environment, and serve as a model for other cultural tourism cities in Indonesia.

Police Seize Rp 14.4 Billion in Assets in Rp 38.9 Billion Coal Investment Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has named three suspects in a corruption case involving a coal project financing scheme that caused state losses of Rp 38.9 billion. Investigators found that funds received by PT Bintang Abadi Sempurna were partly used for personal gain, leading to the seizure of assets worth Rp 14.4 billion across five provinces. The suspects allegedly manipulated financial reports and bypassed mandatory due diligence procedures to disburse loans without proper collateral.

Presidential Palace guarantees professional law enforcement under Prabowo

The Presidential Palace has assured the public that law enforcement under President Prabowo Subianto's administration will be professional and transparent, addressing concerns over a high-profile corruption case. Special Presidential Adviser Hasan Nasbi stated that all legal processes are being conducted prudently and without discrimination. The case involves former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah, who is under investigation for alleged gratuities and money laundering.

Forestry Ministry Launches Cloud Seeding in South Sumatra to Anticipate Surge in Forest Fires

The Ministry of Forestry has initiated Phase II of its Weather Modification Operation in South Sumatra to mitigate the heightened risk of forest and land fires during the 2026 dry season. The operation, which involves cloud seeding to induce rainfall, aims to keep peatlands moist and fill water reservoirs for firefighting, as the El Niño phenomenon is expected to intensify. This comes as the number of hotspots nationwide has already surged by over 110% compared to the same period last year.

Indonesia to launch Integrated National Schools at 17 locations

The Indonesian government will launch its Integrated National Schools program at 17 locations across the country, utilising existing facilities as temporary classrooms while permanent campuses are constructed. The initiative, backed by an additional Rp9.12 trillion in funding, aims to establish 500 schools for high-achieving students by 2029, with the first 20 expected to admit students in the 2027/2028 academic year.

House Commission XI and Government Advance PFII Bill to Plenary Session

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XI and the government have agreed to advance the deliberation of the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII) Bill to a plenary session. The decision was reached during a working meeting at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta, marking a significant step towards establishing a special financial hub. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa presented the government's final views before the agreement was formalised.

Behind the Safe Journeys on LRT Jabodebek: Crew Preparedness Through Regular Drills

LRT Jabodebek is intensifying regular emergency simulations for its staff to ensure swift and coordinated responses to any potential incidents. This commitment to safety comes as the service records a significant increase in ridership, averaging over 115,000 passengers on weekdays in the first half of 2026. The operator has also issued clear safety guidelines for passengers to follow during an emergency.

War Changes Everything: Gold Now a Symbol of National Sovereignty

Amid geopolitical tensions and the freezing of Russian reserves, gold has transformed from a mere investment asset into a critical instrument of national sovereignty. Central banks worldwide are aggressively increasing their gold holdings to reduce dependency on the US dollar and shield against economic sanctions. Indonesia's central bank holds 87 tonnes of gold, a figure analysts consider low relative to the country's estimated 3,600 tonnes of reserves, prompting discussions on increasing the national stockpile.

Prabowo Furious! Claims Hundreds of Billions of Dollars of Indonesia's Wealth Spirited Abroad

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed outrage over the massive outflow of Indonesia's wealth, alleging that hundreds of billions of dollars are lost annually through illicit practices. He cited underinvoicing, trade report falsification, smuggling, and transfer pricing as the primary methods causing decades of economic distortion. The President warned that allowing such leakage to continue would jeopardise the nation's future.

Regional issues high on agenda as ASEAN foreign ministers meet in Manila

ASEAN foreign ministers are gathering in Manila to address pressing regional challenges including energy and food security, the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, and South China Sea tensions. Analysts stress the need for accelerated renewable energy transition and regional power grid integration to ensure long-term energy security, while the bloc maintains its cautious diplomatic stance on Myanmar. The meeting also sees the participation of major powers like the US, China, and Russia, with progress on a South China Sea code of conduct expected to be a key topic.

Thalassemia Survivor Runs Half Marathon to Support a Thalassemia-Free Indonesia

Stanley Joewono, a beta thalassemia major survivor, is preparing to run a half marathon to raise awareness and funds for thalassemia prevention. He aims to encourage early screening and public education to prevent the birth of future generations with thalassemia major. His campaign highlights the importance of carrier status detection before marriage or pregnancy.

Central Java Begins Construction of Southeast Asia's Largest Dairy Farm in Brebes

Central Java has commenced construction of an integrated dairy farm and milk processing plant in Brebes Regency, valued at Rp1.2 trillion. The facility, built by PT Global Dairi Bersama, will house 30,000 dairy cows and aims to close the province's annual milk deficit of 22,000 tonnes. Officials state the project will position Central Java as a national dairy industry hub and support Indonesia's broader food self-sufficiency targets.

Minister Maman Assures Government Policies Will Favour MSMEs

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Minister Maman Abdurrahman has affirmed the government's commitment to enacting policies that support MSMEs and online motorcycle taxi drivers to sustainably improve welfare. The government is currently drafting a Presidential Regulation to legally recognise ride-hailing drivers as MSMEs, aiming to strengthen their protection and access to empowerment programmes. Minister Maman emphasised that President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the cabinet to ensure all policies deliver tangible benefits to those in the lower economic strata.

Jokowi to Attend Court Session in Diploma Defamation Case on 6 August

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo is scheduled to appear as a witness in a defamation trial against Tifauzia Tyassuma, also known as Dokter Tifa, on 6 August. The case revolves around allegations made by Tifa concerning the validity of Jokowi's academic diploma. His attendance is being hailed by supporters as a historic moment demonstrating equality before the law for a former head of state.

Indonesia and Chile Strengthen Cooperation on Critical Minerals and Health

Indonesia and Chile have agreed to bolster bilateral cooperation in strategic sectors including critical minerals, science and technology, agriculture, and health. The agreement was reached during a meeting in Jakarta between the two nations' foreign ministers, who also highlighted the importance of business-to-business collaboration under the Indonesia-Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IC-CEPA). The meeting also marked 60 years of diplomatic relations and reaffirmed both countries' commitment to Global South solidarity.

Police Anti-Corruption Unit Detains Two Suspects in PLN Coal Corruption Case, State Losses Reach Rp38.9 Billion

The Indonesian National Police's Anti-Corruption Corps (Kortastipidkor) has detained two suspects in a corruption case involving coal supply financing for PLN, which resulted in state losses of Rp38.9 billion. The suspects, an investment manager from PT PPA and an operational director from PT BAS, allegedly manipulated documents to disburse invoice financing without proper due diligence. Authorities have seized assets worth Rp14.4 billion as part of efforts to recover the state losses.

House Commission III Gathers Public Input to Refine Asset Forfeiture Bill

The House of Representatives Commission III is actively seeking public and expert input to finalise the Asset Forfeiture Bill, which has been designated a top priority in the 2026 National Legislation Programme. Lawmakers are particularly focused on the controversial issue of reverse burden of proof and proposals for an independent supervisory body to manage seized assets. The bill is considered urgent to address widespread financial crimes and governance issues.

Prabowo Warns Inpex Boss Over 28-Year Stalled Project in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has revealed he directly pressed Japan's Inpex Corporation to commit to the long-delayed Abadi Masela gas project, which had stalled for 28 years. The president issued a firm but polite warning during a visit to Tokyo, stating that the nation urgently needs the energy and foreign exchange. The project's groundbreaking finally took place last week, marking the start of a US$20.9 billion investment expected to significantly boost Indonesia's industrial transformation.

The Plight of Fishing Vessel Crew in Benoa: Employment Insurance a 'Luxury'

Fishing vessel crew (AKP) at Bali's Benoa Port, a hub for Indonesia's tuna industry, report being denied basic rights and social security. Workers describe being forced to labour while seriously ill and being refused BPJS Ketenagakerjaan (employment insurance) coverage, with one crew member calling it a 'luxury'. The testimonies highlight systemic issues of long working hours, lack of medical care, and the absence of social safety nets for those working in the fishing sector.

Tourism Ministry Redesigns 4B Travel Routes to Promote Equitable Distribution

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is overhauling travel patterns for the 4B region—Banyuwangi, North Bali, West Bali, and East Bali—to disperse tourist concentrations away from urban centres. Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana noted that 70 per cent of visitors are currently concentrated in the Sarbagita area, necessitating new route mapping to spread economic benefits. The initiative will direct tourists from entry points to diverse attractions, including national parks, northern beach resorts, and eastern dive sites.

Amid US Attacks, Iran Asserts War Will End Through Victory or Negotiation

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the ongoing conflict with the United States will conclude either through a decisive military victory or diplomatic negotiations. He emphasised that any talks must be preceded by Iran securing a strong strategic position on the battlefield. The remarks come as tensions escalate following US strikes on Iranian targets in response to attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

Prabowo: I'm Attacked Over Free Nutritious Meals, But Trillions Vanish Without Protest

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed bewilderment that his flagship Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is criticised as wasteful, while the loss of thousands of trillions of rupiah in state wealth over decades draws little scrutiny. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, he stressed that a nation's primary measure of success is its ability to feed its people. He contrasted the attacks on the programme, which targets children, pregnant women, and the elderly, with the silence surrounding long-term financial leakages.

Government Speaks Out on 0 Percent to 50 Year Tax on PFII

The Indonesian government is preparing a 0 percent income tax incentive for business activities in the planned International Financial Centre (PFII) in Bali, though it will not apply to all professions such as experts. The incentive scheme, which could last up to 50 years, aims to attract foreign investment from offshore financial centres and will be aligned with Global Minimum Tax commitments. The PFII will also offer legal certainty through a common law system and a special business court.

Prabowo: If Clever People Say There Is Something More Important Than Food, Be My Guest!

President Prabowo Subianto has robustly defended his administration's focus on food security, stating that no civilisation can survive without the ability to feed its people. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, he dismissed critics who suggest other priorities outweigh the fundamental need for sustenance. He also hit back at detractors of his free nutritious meal programme, contrasting the criticism with the silence over what he described as trillions of rupiah in resource losses over three decades.

Students and teacher cross steel rope bridge to reach school in West Aceh

Students and a teacher in West Aceh are forced to cross a precarious steel rope bridge as their daily route to school, highlighting severe infrastructure challenges in remote parts of Indonesia. The dangerous crossing underscores the urgent need for government investment in basic connectivity to ensure safe access to education. This situation reflects broader issues of rural development and public welfare in the archipelago.

Indonesia's CPO Export Proceeds Manipulated, Prabowo: 'This Stabs at Our Hearts'

President Prabowo Subianto has revealed that Indonesia's crude palm oil (CPO) export revenues are frequently manipulated to benefit certain parties, with prices sold significantly below international market rates. In response, the government will centralise exports of key commodities through a single state-owned enterprise, PT Danantara Sumber Daya Indonesia (PT DSI), starting 1 September 2026. The move aims to capture the full value of national resources, with PT DSI already managing over US$10.5 billion in foreign exchange within its first six weeks of operation.

Building Added Value Through an Advanced Materials Ecosystem

Indonesia is accelerating its push beyond raw mineral exports by developing an advanced materials ecosystem. The government aims to process critical minerals like nickel, copper, tin, and bauxite into high-technology materials to capture greater value. This shift comes amid intensifying global competition for these resources.

119.44 Million Litres of Subsidised Fuel Support Rail Services, KAI Strengthens GCG-Based Governance

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has reported that the realisation of subsidised fuel consumption reached 55.73 percent of its annual quota by mid-July 2026, with the majority allocated to passenger services. The state-owned railway operator emphasised that the management of subsidised fuel is governed by strict Good Corporate Governance (GCG) principles, including detailed monitoring by service type and operational region. KAI is also transitioning to B50 biodiesel for its diesel fleet, reinforcing its commitment to transparent and accountable energy governance.

Not Just Finance, Purbaya Confirms PFII Will Also Strengthen Real Sector Financing

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the Indonesia International Financial Centre (PFII) will not only consolidate financial sector activities but also bolster financing for the real sector. The initiative aims to drive productive investment, create jobs, and strengthen national economic growth. The government and parliament are focusing the PFII bill on establishing a competitive international financial hub to attract investment and reinforce the national economy.

Through This Programme, Pegadaian Promotes Green Tourism in Yogyakarta

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian, in collaboration with the Government Investment Centre (PIP), has donated 50 electric-assist pedicabs (Bekalista) worth IDR 1.4 billion to support green tourism and the livelihoods of micro-enterprises in Yogyakarta. The initiative aligns with local regulations to reduce emissions in the Malioboro heritage zone and supports the transition from fossil-fuel-powered pedicabs. The programme underscores the company's commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles while preserving the region's cultural heritage.

BKKBN: Building a Family Requires More Than Just Love as Divorce Cases Soar

Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development (BKKBN) has stressed the importance of comprehensive premarital preparation after data revealed 438,000 divorce cases in 2025. The ministry highlighted that persistent disputes and a lack of conflict resolution are the primary causes, urging couples to ensure physical, mental, and economic readiness. It also promoted the 'Elsimil' digital tool to help prospective couples assess their health and readiness to prevent stunting.

Garlic Prices Soar, Home Affairs Ministry Scrutinises Import Realisation

The Ministry of Home Affairs has linked the persistent rise in garlic prices to the low realisation of imports by quota holders. Secretary General Tomsi Tohir urged the Ministry of Trade to investigate whether importers have fulfilled at least 50 percent of their allocated quotas. The government is also exploring the opening of additional entry ports in eastern Indonesia to curb prices, which have surged over 60 percent above the reference price in regions like Maluku and Papua.

PalmCo Urges Institutional Strengthening of Smallholders to Boost Sustainable Palm Oil Cultivation

PT Perkebunan Nusantara IV (PalmCo) has emphasised that strengthening the institutional capacity of oil palm smallholders is crucial for accelerating sustainable cultivation practices. President Director Jatmiko Krisna Santosa highlighted that robust farmer organisations would streamline long-term processes like replanting and help meet international traceability demands. He called for harmonised policies across the upstream sector to improve productivity, ensure legal certainty, and support fairer pricing for smallholders.

Prabowo Claims PT DSI Has Managed US$10.5 Billion in Foreign Exchange in Two Weeks of Operation

President Prabowo Subianto announced that the newly formed state-owned enterprise PT Danantara Sumberdaya Indonesia (PT DSI) has managed US$10.5 billion in foreign exchange within its first two weeks of full operation. The company was established to curb capital outflow and prevent export revenue leakage from strategic natural resources. Prabowo stated the initiative was based on a comprehensive study by the Financial System Stability Committee and the National Economic Council.

UMY Commits to Becoming an Inclusive, Disability-Friendly Campus

Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY) is reinforcing its commitment to inclusivity by enhancing infrastructure and services for students and staff with disabilities. The university plans to improve physical access, including installing a lift at its mosque, and has been actively admitting disabled students across all study programmes for the past five years. UMY also aims to provide sign language assistants and open employment quotas for people with disabilities.

Prabowo Decides Indonesia to Build 30 Bioethanol Plants for E20 Petrol

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans to construct at least 30 new bioethanol plants in Indonesia to support the transition to E20 blended petrol. The initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of bioethanol fuel, with the country currently only having one production facility and limited E5 distribution. The government is targeting a 20% ethanol blend, citing successful implementations in countries like India and Brazil.

Cianjur TPHP Office Mitigates Drought, Anticipates and Controls Impact

The Cianjur Regency Food Crops, Horticulture and Plantation Office (TPHP) is implementing mitigation measures to address the severe drought affecting the region, particularly during the current planting season. Water debit in the Cisuru Dam has drastically fallen, impacting irrigation for rice fields in several districts, with some areas already reporting crop damage. Authorities are coordinating water distribution schedules and deploying pumps to ensure supply reaches the most affected downstream areas.

Prabowo Reveals Government Achievements: Over 108 Issues Resolved

President Prabowo Subianto announced that his administration has successfully resolved more than 108 fundamental issues within the first 18 months of his term. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, he expressed pride in the achievements but urged his ministers to remain humble and avoid arrogance. He stressed that acknowledging national accomplishments is essential for self-respect and gaining international recognition.

Prabowo Confident Indonesia Will Become World's Food Barn

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed strong confidence that Indonesia will become a global food barn. He highlighted the country's sufficient land and abundant water resources, citing the successful conversion of swamps into productive rice fields as evidence of this potential.

Garut Police Arrest 20 Suspects in Major Drug Bust, Including Tofu Vendor Using Cart as Cover

The Garut Resort Police have apprehended 20 individuals for drug trafficking and illegal pharmaceutical distribution during June and July 2026. Among the notable cases, a suspect used a fried tofu cart as a front to sell synthetic tobacco. Authorities estimate the operation saved approximately 1,134 residents from potential substance abuse, with suspects facing maximum penalties of life imprisonment.

Coordinating Minister Airlangga: Batam Data Centre Industry Grows 22 Percent Annually

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that the data centre industry in Batam is expanding by 22 percent per year, outpacing the national average. He highlighted that this growth, driven by international investments including a new undersea cable to Singapore, positions Batam as a key digital gateway for Indonesia. The minister noted the sector is crucial for propelling national economic growth towards the eight percent target.

KKP and China Conduct Joint Inspection to Safeguard Fish Export Access

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) and China's General Administration of Customs (GACC) are conducting a joint inspection of three fish processing units. The inspection is a routine bilateral requirement under a Mutual Recognition Arrangement to maintain and enhance market access for Indonesian fishery products. The three units under review exported over 5,000 tonnes of products worth approximately USD 18 million to China in 2025.

Summarecon Bogor Launches The Sherwood Residence, Offering Homes with Views of Four Mountains

Summarecon Bogor has launched The Sherwood Residence, a premium housing cluster within its integrated township, featuring panoramic views of Mount Gede, Pangrango, Salak, and Pancar. Developed in collaboration with Hadiprana Design, the project offers two architectural concepts with prices starting from IDR 3.6 billion. The launch reinforces the developer's commitment to expanding its 500-hectare township with quality residential and investment options.

Kortas Tipikor Investigates Land Case Involving Former Deputy Police Chief Oegroseno

The Indonesian Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has confirmed an investigation into alleged corruption related to land procurement for a policewomen's school, a case that reportedly involves former Deputy Police Chief Komjen (Purn) Oegroseno. The investigation, which began in early July 2026, concerns land acquisitions in Lembang and Ciputat dating back over 15 years. Oegroseno has denied any wrongdoing, questioning the legal basis of the probe and claiming he is being criminalised.

MPR Deputy Speaker Calls for Evaluation of Protection System After Sexual Assault of Elderly Woman in Grobogan

Lestari Moerdijat, Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), has urged a thorough evaluation of Indonesia's protection systems following the sexual assault of a 90-year-old woman in Grobogan, Central Java. She described the incident as a crime against humanity and evidence of a systemic failure to protect vulnerable groups. Moerdijat called for maximum legal enforcement and consistent implementation of Government Regulation No. 30/2025 on the prevention and handling of sexual violence.

Trump's Truth Social to Charge $1.7 Billion for Premium Access, Sparking Ethics Outcry

Trump Media & Technology Group is reportedly planning to charge up to US$100,000 per month for high-speed access to Donald Trump's Truth Social posts, a move critics say exploits the presidency for personal gain. The premium data feed, aimed at high-frequency traders, has drawn sharp condemnation from Democratic lawmakers who label it a corrupt scheme to enrich the president and Wall Street insiders.

Hotman Paris Reveals Chronology of Remarks to Journalist That Drew Criticism

Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris has publicly apologised after an emotional outburst towards a journalist during a press conference at the Attorney General's Office. He explained that he was provoked after repeatedly being asked questions about an institution's alleged hidden agenda, which he felt he lacked the capacity to answer. Hotman stressed that his reaction was unjustified and extended his apologies to the journalist and all journalistic organisations in Indonesia.

Unhas Inaugurates 122 New Officials to Boost QS WUR Ranking

Hasanuddin University (Unhas) has inaugurated 122 new structural officials as part of a strategic consolidation to improve its global standing. Rector Prof Dr Jamaluddin Jompa urged the new appointees not to become complacent with the university's current position in the 851-900 band of the QS World University Rankings. He stressed that achieving the ambition of breaking into the world's top 500 will require a collective leap of 100 places per year.

DKI Jakarta Government Closes Two Active Disposal Zones at Bantargebang TPST

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has closed two active waste disposal zones at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Treatment Plant (TPST) as part of a transition to a controlled landfill system. The initiative involves covering used areas with protective media and geomembrane to reduce odour, control gas emissions, and minimise leachate production. The project is being accelerated through a creative financing collaboration with the private sector, including Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments.

Bekasi City to Build Stadium, Aiming to Attract Sports Tourists

The Mayor of Bekasi, Tri Adhianto Tjahyono, has outlined plans to construct the Patriot Chandrabhaga Stadium as part of a broader city development strategy to boost the local economy through sports tourism. In addition to the stadium, the city government is supporting the national strategic Waste-to-Energy project in Bantar Gebang, which is expected to begin operations in 2028 following a groundbreaking in August 2026. The initiatives are part of Bekasi's efforts to transform into a sustainable satellite city with improved infrastructure.

Prabowo to Close 700 State-Owned Enterprises, State Could Save Rp 80 Trillion by End of 2026

President Prabowo Subianto has announced that the government has closed or merged up to 250 state-owned enterprises (BUMN) as of the end of July 2026. The total number of BUMN is expected to be reduced from 1,077 to just 350 by the end of 2026, resulting in the closure or consolidation of around 700 entities. The President estimates that this streamlining could yield routine budget savings of up to Rp 80 trillion, covering costs such as executive salaries, office rent, and operational expenses.

Prabowo Still Baffled MBG Programme Considered a Waste of State Funds

President Prabowo Subianto expressed bewilderment at critics who label the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme as a waste of state funds. He contrasted the criticism of his initiative to feed children, pregnant women, and the elderly with the lack of scrutiny over trillions of rupiah in state losses over the past three decades. The remarks were made during a plenary cabinet meeting focused on accelerating government programmes.

TASPEN Launches Green Miles Programme to Promote Low-Emission Mobility Culture

Indonesian state-owned enterprise PT TASPEN has launched the Green Miles Programme, an initiative encouraging employees to adopt sustainable commuting habits such as walking, cycling, and using public transport. The programme, which runs from July to October 2026, is part of the company's broader commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and supports President Prabowo Subianto's vision for sustainable development.

Smog Blankets Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan, Disrupting Six Flights

Thick smog enveloped Banjarbaru in South Kalimantan, causing delays to six domestic flights on Monday morning. The flights, scheduled for departure between 06:00 and 07:00 WITA, were held back for one to two hours. Airport authorities confirmed all affected services have since departed safely after visibility improved.

BI Survey: New Loan Disbursement Rises in Q2 2026

Bank Indonesia's Banking Survey indicates a rise in new loan disbursement in the second quarter of 2026, with the weighted net balance reaching 93.08 per cent. Growth was recorded across working capital, investment, and consumer loans, while credit card demand slowed. The central bank forecasts continued lending growth in the third quarter, supported by positive economic prospects and more accommodative lending standards.

Dealer Car Stockpiles Under Threat, What Is Really Happening?

Indonesia's automotive industry faces potential vehicle stockpile at dealerships as rising Bank Indonesia interest rates may cause consumers to delay purchases due to higher loan costs. GAIKINDO notes that while conditions vary by brand, manufacturers are expected to deploy promotional programmes and financing schemes to maintain distribution flow and prevent a costly build-up of unsold inventory.

Prabowo Issues Ultimatum to Japan on Masela Block: Proceed or We Will Find Another Partner

President Prabowo Subianto has issued a firm ultimatum to a Japanese company regarding the stalled Masela gas block project, demanding certainty after 28 years of delays. He stated that if the current partner is unwilling to proceed, the government will offer the project to other investors. Prabowo has also instructed the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources to revoke the permit if no real activity is seen within six months.

Collective Solution Sought as National Library Budget Cuts Threaten Literacy Programmes

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has called for collective action to sustain the national literacy movement following significant budget cuts to the National Library (Perpusnas). The 2026 budget reduction has forced the termination of programmes, including free book distribution to villages. Moerdijat stressed that low literacy levels, evidenced by a national index score of 40.6, require urgent cross-sector synergy to ensure access to quality reading materials.

Superstition Makes Stigmatised Homes a Tough Sell in Japan, But Solutions Emerge

In Japan, properties known as 'jiko bukken' where a tragic death occurred are notoriously difficult to sell or rent due to cultural superstitions surrounding death, often forcing owners to slash prices or leave them abandoned. Companies like Kachimode are offering unique services, including overnight 'ghost investigations' to scientifically prove a property is clean, aiming to reassure tenants and address the growing issue of vacant homes. With an estimated 9 million empty houses across the country, these superstitions are contributing to a significant economic and social problem.

Roy Suryo on rejected pretrial motion: It's common, sometimes you win, sometimes you lose

Roy Suryo has responded to the South Jakarta District Court's rejection of his second pretrial motion challenging his suspect status in the alleged Joko Widodo fake diploma defamation case. He stated that differing judicial considerations are normal and expressed gratitude for a previous partial victory regarding search and seizure procedures. The judge ruled that the suspect designation was valid and noted that filing separate motions could delay case handling.

State Secretary: Appointment of New Jampidsus in Final Stage

The process to appoint a successor to Febrie Adriansyah as the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) is in its final stage, according to State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi. The Attorney General has formally submitted a proposed name to President Prabowo Subianto, and the matter has been processed by the Final Assessment Team. A presidential decree formalising the appointment is expected to be signed shortly.

ESDM Targets B50 Distribution at All Fuel Stations by 1 October 2026

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources aims to complete the nationwide rollout of B50 biodiesel at all fuel stations by 1 October 2026. The mandatory programme, which began in July, is currently in a transition phase to allow companies to deplete existing B40 stocks. The policy is projected to significantly cut carbon emissions, save billions in foreign exchange, and boost the palm oil industry.

Prabowo: I Was Attacked for Wanting to Provide Free Nutritious Meals for Indonesian Children

President Prabowo Subianto has claimed he faced criticism for his flagship free nutritious meals (MBG) programme, which critics labelled wasteful. He contrasted this with the lack of scrutiny over trillions of rupiah lost from Indonesia's economy over 34 years. The President stressed the programme is essential to combat stunting affecting a quarter of the nation's children.

Prabowo: Over 108 Issues Resolved in 18 Months, a Significant Achievement

President Prabowo Subianto claims his administration has resolved more than 108 issues within its first 18 months, calling it a significant achievement. He highlighted the discovery of massive state revenue leakages, including hundreds of billions of dollars lost annually through practices like under-invoicing and smuggling. Prabowo urged his cabinet to remain resolute in tackling the nation's challenges, including poverty and wage issues.

House Commission I, Defence Ministry Discuss Grant of Italian Aircraft Carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I is deliberating the acceptance of a grant for the Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, valued at over EUR 54 million. The Defence Ministry formally requested parliamentary approval for the foreign defence equipment grant in early July 2026. A decision on whether to accept the vessel is expected following consultations with the Ministry of Finance and military leadership.

Dasco Leads Meeting on Pioneer Ferry Crossing Budget Constraints

A coordination meeting led by Deputy Speaker Dasco addressed funding shortfalls for Indonesia's pioneer ferry services. The government and parliament agreed to allocate additional funds to state-owned operators ASDP and Pelni. Further discussions will finalise the administrative mechanisms for disbursing the supplementary budget from the Ministry of Transportation.

Drought and Clean Water Crisis Spreads to 10 Districts in West Java

The drought and clean water crisis in West Java has expanded to affect 10 districts and over 130,000 residents, according to the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD). Authorities have distributed nearly 1.8 million litres of water as numerous villages report dried-up wells. The agency is urging residents to conserve water as the dry season continues.

Palace asserts no intervention in ex-Jampidsus corruption case

The Presidential Palace has stated it will not interfere in the corruption investigation involving former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. The case concerns alleged corruption and money laundering linked to the handling of cases at PT Asabri, Krakatau Steel, and PLN coal procurement. Officials emphasised that the legal process must proceed according to the prevailing mechanisms without requiring presidential approval.

Unsoed Lecturer Alleges Dean's Academic Fraud, Including Paper Fabrication

A lecturer at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed) has publicly accused a dean of serious academic integrity violations, including plagiarism and the fabrication of research papers. Despite an initial investigation by the Inspectorate General of the Ministry of Higher Education reportedly finding evidence to support the claims, the ministry later declared the dean innocent. The case has sparked concerns about the commitment to upholding integrity within Indonesia's higher education system.

Motion Rejected, Roy Suryo Floats Idea of Fourth Pre-Trial Hearing

Roy Suryo is considering a fourth pre-trial motion after a South Jakarta District Court judge rejected his latest challenge against his suspect status in a case involving allegations of a fake diploma for President Jokowi. The former minister stated he respects the decision but noted a previous pre-trial ruling had declared his arrest and detention unlawful. His legal team is now preparing for a third pre-trial hearing scheduled for 28 July, which seeks compensation based on that earlier ruling.

TASPEN Launches 'Green Miles' Programme to Encourage Low-Emission Commuting

Indonesian state-owned insurer PT TASPEN has introduced the Green Miles Programme to promote low-emission commuting among its employees. The initiative, running from July to October 2026, encourages staff to walk, cycle, use public transport, or carpool as part of the company's broader ESG strategy. TASPEN is also advancing other sustainability efforts, including solar panel installations and electric vehicle adoption.

Prabowo Dismisses Collapse Predictions, Says Indonesia 'Getting Stronger Every Day'

President Prabowo Subianto has rejected claims that Indonesia is on the verge of collapse, asserting that the nation is instead growing stronger. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, he highlighted achievements in food self-sufficiency and energy resilience while cautioning against complacency. The president acknowledged ongoing global challenges but maintained that Indonesia is better prepared than many other nations.

President Prabowo Says Thousands of Trillions in State Wealth Lost Annually Due to Forgery and Smuggling

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that Indonesia loses state wealth worth thousands of trillions of rupiah annually due to trade report forgery and smuggling. Citing data from international bodies including the United Nations, he described the situation as a significant distortion of the national economy. The President called the loss of cooking oil in the world's largest palm oil producer for weeks an illogical example of the problem.

West Lombok Regent Arrested by KPK Ahead of Three Scheduled Events

West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini was arrested in a sting operation by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) on Monday morning, forcing the cancellation of his three official engagements. The regent was scheduled to attend a university event, open a sports competition, and receive a visit from the regional logistics agency. The KPK has confirmed the operation and sealed the regent's office, but has yet to disclose the full details of the case or other parties involved.

West Lombok Regent's Office Sealed by KPK, Regional Secretary Says Administration Continues

The office of West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini was sealed by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in a dawn operation. Regional Secretary Akhmad Saikhu stated the local government remains operational, with the Deputy Regent handling administrative duties, while confirming the Head of Public Works is currently undergoing training in Bali.

MUI Urges Government to Draft New Mining Permit Rules for Mass Organisations After Constitutional Court Ruling

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called on the government to formulate new regulations for granting mining permits to mass organisations, following a Constitutional Court ruling that bans direct appointments. The MUI stated that the ruling strengthens good governance and prevents social jealousy, while emphasising that any involvement in natural resource management must be transparent, professional, and prioritise public welfare.

Zulhas Finally Explains the Difference Between Village Cooperatives and Alfamart-Indomaret

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan clarified that the newly established 'Red and White' Village Cooperatives (Kopdes) are not designed to compete with retail chains like Alfamart and Indomaret. Instead, they will function as government infrastructure for distributing social aid and subsidised goods, as well as acting as an offtaker for farmers' harvests to stabilise prices.

Foreign Ministry: Over 1,200 Indonesians Repatriated from Myanmar Online Scam Centres

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has facilitated the return of more than 1,200 citizens from online scam operations in Myanmar since February 2026. The complex repatriation effort, coordinated through embassies in Yangon and Bangkok, highlights the severe risks of non-procedural overseas employment. Officials warn that victims were lured by fake job offers in Thailand before being trafficked to Myanmar, where they faced passport confiscation, confinement, and violence.

Finance Minister: PFII to Focus Not Only on Financial Sector but Also Real Sector

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII) aims to strengthen the real sector and attract investment, not just financial activities. The PFII bill includes provisions for tax incentives, special facilities, and the adoption of international legal principles. The government and the House of Representatives have agreed on the bill's key points to boost national economic sovereignty.

Bank Credit Grows 11.5%, MSME Financing Remains Key Challenge

Indonesia's banking sector saw credit growth reach 11.5%, totalling IDR 8,600 trillion, according to the Financial Services Authority (OJK). While the overall financial system remains sound with controlled non-performing loans, members of the House of Representatives have raised concerns about the accessibility of this credit growth for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The OJK acknowledged that boosting MSME lending is a primary task and pledged to pursue strategic programmes to deepen the financial market and expand credit reach for small businesses.

China proposes six priority sectors for cooperation with Indonesia

China has outlined six priority sectors for enhanced bilateral cooperation with Indonesia, including infrastructure, industrial downstreaming, and the digital economy. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi highlighted opportunities to align China's manufacturing and technological capabilities with Indonesia's development goals, such as the Global Maritime Axis and Golden Indonesia 2045 Vision. The proposed areas also encompass green development, maritime collaboration, and agricultural modernization.

US Accuses Iran of Using Strait of Hormuz as Bargaining Chip

The United States has accused Iran of attempting to use the strategic Strait of Hormuz as leverage in ongoing regional tensions. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that while Washington remains open to diplomacy, it will take necessary measures to protect global shipping and urged other nations to contribute. The comments came amid reports of a US soldier's accidental death in Iraq and an Iranian missile penetrating Jordanian air defences.

eFishery Scandal Tarnishes Indonesia's Image as a Digital Investment Destination, Says Expert

Digital expert Heru Sutadi warns that the eFishery scandal has evolved beyond a corporate legal issue, damaging Indonesia's reputation among global investors. He argues the case, which involves significant losses for Malaysian public funds, highlights systemic weaknesses in startup governance and investor oversight. Sutadi calls for a comprehensive evaluation of the ecosystem and stronger regulations to restore trust and ensure the scandal does not deter future investment in Indonesian tech companies.

Singapore Rocked as Muslim Minister Resigns Amid Scandal Involving a Woman

Singapore's political landscape was shaken after Acting Minister for Muslim Affairs, Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, resigned following an inappropriate interaction with a female member of the public. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong stated that while no criminal offence was committed, Faishal acknowledged his conduct fell short of the standards expected of a public office holder. Senior Minister of State Zaqy Mohamad has been appointed as his replacement.

National Internship Programme 2026 Registration Uses Biometric Verification to Block Scalpers

The Ministry of Manpower has introduced biometric verification for the 2026 National Internship Programme to eliminate brokers and ensure fair access. Minister Yassierli stated that companies and vacancies have been rigorously vetted to confirm legitimacy and suitability for graduates. Registration is open from 15 to 28 July 2026 and now includes opportunities for persons with disabilities and professional degree holders.

Prabowo Stresses Indonesia's Economy Must Be Based on Family Principle, No Party May Intimidate or Dominate National Wealth

President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed that Indonesia's economic development must adhere to the family-based principle mandated by Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution. He warned that no party should be allowed to intimidate others or monopolise the nation's wealth for the benefit of a select few. The President also addressed criticism of the government's free nutritious meal programme during the cabinet meeting.

West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini Arrested in KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation. The regent is being transported to Jakarta for further investigation. This arrest follows a similar operation earlier in the month targeting the Sukoharjo regent for alleged extortion.

Golkar Withdraws from Bali TRAP Special Committee, Council Speaker Responds

The Speaker of the Bali Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), Dewa Made Mahayadnya, has responded diplomatically to the Golkar Party's withdrawal of its members from the Special Committee on Spatial Planning, Assets, and Permitting (Pansus TRAP). Golkar argues the committee's work concluded after its report was submitted to a plenary session. Dewa Jack stated that differing interpretations of the rules are normal and assured the public that the committee remains active until its official term expires in October 2026.

Pegadaian Promotes Green Tourism in Yogyakarta with Electric Pedicab Programme

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian, in collaboration with the Government Investment Centre, has donated 50 electric-assist pedicabs (Bekalista) worth IDR 1.4 billion to support Yogyakarta's low-emission zone. The initiative aligns with the provincial government's efforts to phase out fuel-powered tricycles in the Malioboro heritage area, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The programme aims to preserve traditional transport while promoting environmental sustainability and safeguarding micro-enterprise livelihoods.

Legislative Body Approves Harmonisation of Forestry Bill Strengthening Indigenous Communities

The House of Representatives' Legislation Body (Baleg) has approved the harmonised draft of the fourth amendment to the Forestry Law, which includes provisions to reinforce the status of indigenous communities. All eight political party factions agreed to the draft, which will now be submitted to the bill's proponents for further processing. Key changes include the recognition of indigenous peoples' rights in forest management and mandatory community involvement in the designation of forest areas.

Rano Karno Instructs Bank Jakarta to Install ATMs in All Public Housing Blocks

Jakarta's Deputy Governor has directed Bank Jakarta to install cash machines in every municipally owned flat, prioritising financial inclusion over pure investment returns. The initiative aims to improve access to banking services for residents and aligns with the city's ambition to become a global, inclusive metropolis. The announcement coincided with the launch of a new 'future branch' prototype designed to offer more open and digitalised services.

Hajj 2027 Waiting List Announced, Deputy Minister Urges Civil Servants to Build Early Communication with Pilgrims

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the waiting list for the 1448 H/2027 M Hajj season. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak has instructed all civil servants and Hajj officers to establish strong engagement and heartfelt communication with prospective pilgrims from the outset, emphasizing the ministry's role in fostering a transformation of moral and civilisational values through the 'Tri Sukses' programme.

Indonesia and Chile Strengthen Cooperation on Critical Minerals and Healthcare

Indonesia and Chile have agreed to bolster bilateral cooperation in strategic sectors including critical mineral processing, agriculture, and healthcare. The agreement was reached during a meeting in Jakarta marking 60 years of diplomatic relations. Both nations also reaffirmed their commitment to Global South solidarity and optimising the Indonesia-Chile Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IC-CEPA).

Citizen Praises Propam Polri's Yanduan App: Problem Resolved in Two Days

A resident of East Java has praised the National Police's Professional and Security Division (Propam) for its new public complaints application, Yanduan Propam, after it helped retrieve his child's mobile phone from police custody within two days. The app, designed to report alleged violations by police officers, is seen as cutting through bureaucracy and providing a direct channel for public grievances. The citizen expressed hope that the police will consistently maintain the application to continue meeting public expectations.

Drought in Purbalingga Spreads to 10 Villages, BPBD Distributes Clean Water

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Purbalingga reports that drought has now affected 10 villages across six sub-districts, with the number expected to rise as the dry season continues. Decreased spring water discharge and unrecovered infrastructure damage from previous floods are the main causes. BPBD, in cooperation with the local water company, has distributed over 1.7 million litres of clean water to affected residents.

Prabowo Opens Cabinet Meeting to Evaluate Government Performance

President Prabowo Subianto convened a plenary cabinet meeting to review the administration's performance ahead of the second year's end. He noted that the intense pace of work often obscures the achievements made over the past two years. The President stressed that the evaluation is not intended to assign blame or compare his administration with previous ones.

172 Priority Crossings to Close in First Half of 2026, KAI Strengthens Safety Education for Students

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is intensifying railway safety education for students, coinciding with the new school year and a UN high-level meeting on road safety. The initiative focuses on teaching young people about the dangers of level crossings and the physics of train braking distances. This effort comes as the government plans to close 172 priority level crossings in the first half of 2026 to improve safety.

Indonesia targets one-month completion of village cooperative regulation

The Indonesian government aims to finalise a presidential regulation on village cooperatives within one month to accelerate the rollout of the national programme. Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan said the regulation will enable cooperatives to serve as distribution hubs for subsidised goods and food aid, while also acting as off-takers for local farmers’ produce. The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve rural access to essential commodities and public services through a network of village-level cooperative centres.

US Strikes on Iran Enter Ninth Day as Hormuz Tensions Threaten Global Energy

The United States military has continued its strikes against Iran for a ninth consecutive day, escalating fears over the safety of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Revolutionary Guard claims to have disabled two oil tankers and launched retaliatory attacks on US assets in Kuwait, while Washington reports additional troop casualties. The intensifying conflict has driven up global oil prices and raised concerns about a prolonged disruption to energy supplies.

Indonesia to Follow India and Brazil's Lead in Developing Sugarcane-Based Biofuel

President Prabowo Subianto has announced plans for Indonesia to accelerate its bioethanol development, targeting a 10% ethanol blend (E10) in petrol and eventually reaching 20% (E20). He noted that India has already implemented E20 and Brazil uses pure ethanol (E100), asserting that Indonesia has the necessary resources to achieve energy self-sufficiency. The government aims to build at least 30 new bioethanol plants to support this initiative.

Pegadaian and PIP Distribute 50 Electric Pedicabs to Boost Green Tourism in Yogyakarta

State-owned pawnbroker PT Pegadaian, in collaboration with the Government Investment Centre (PIP), has provided 50 electric-assist pedicabs (Bekalista) to support Yogyakarta's green tourism and low-emission zone initiatives. The IDR 1.4 billion programme aims to preserve the city's UNESCO cultural heritage while ensuring sustainable livelihoods for traditional transport operators. The initiative aligns with ESG principles and is intended to serve as a model for other cultural tourism destinations in Indonesia.

Govt assures B50 mandate not affect CPO exports

The Indonesian government has assured that the B50 biodiesel mandate will not disrupt crude palm oil exports, citing a successful transition from B35 to B40 where both domestic demand and exports increased. Officials are balancing domestic energy security and cooking oil availability with the need to maintain robust export incentives. The B50 programme, launched in July 2023, is projected to save Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange by 2026 and create over two million jobs.

Indonesia invites private firms to build ethanol plants for E20 push

The Indonesian government is encouraging private companies to construct bioethanol plants to support the national E20 fuel blending programme. A director general at the Energy Ministry stated that the revision of Presidential Regulation 40/2023 will regulate blending capacity, while President Prabowo Subianto has set a target of building up to 50 new ethanol factories to replicate the success of countries like India and Brazil in reducing fuel imports.

Indonesia projects July crude price at US$67-US$71 per barrel

The Indonesian government has projected its crude oil price for July at between US$67 and US$71 per barrel, with the final figure dependent on market developments and geopolitical conditions. The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources highlighted that potential supply disruptions and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could influence the trajectory, following a June average price of US$83.45 per barrel. Officials emphasised that continuous monitoring and a transparent pricing formula are essential for maintaining national energy security and fiscal accountability.

Prabowo Reveals Unexpected Economic Leakages Costing Indonesia Billions

President Prabowo Subianto has disclosed that Indonesia faces significant economic leakages far beyond initial government estimates, with hundreds of billions of dollars flowing out of the country annually. He attributed these losses to practices such as under-invoicing, trade misreporting, transfer pricing, and smuggling. The President stressed that resolving these issues, alongside tackling extreme poverty and teacher salaries, is a key mandate of his administration.

Finance Minister: PFII to Focus on Real Sector, Not Just Finance

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the proposed Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII) aims to boost real sector financing and productive investment, not just consolidate financial activities. The initiative is designed to enhance Indonesia's competitiveness as an international financial hub and strengthen national economic sovereignty. The government and the House of Representatives have agreed to advance the PFII Bill to a plenary session for final approval.

Karangasem BPBD Launches Disaster Service Unit for Persons with Disabilities

The Karangasem Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has established a Disaster Service Unit for Persons with Disabilities (ULD-PB) to ensure inclusive disaster preparedness. The initiative aims to equip people with disabilities with the knowledge and capacity to respond to the high number of potential natural disasters in the area. Officials emphasised that the programme is designed to guarantee equal rights and protection for vulnerable groups during emergencies.

Bama-Pagelaran Road Damaged Less Than a Year After Construction, Provincial Government Says It Has Been Repaired

The Banten provincial government has confirmed that the Bama-Pagelaran road in Pandeglang Regency, built under the Bang Andra village road programme, suffered damage less than a year after completion. Officials stated the contractor has already carried out repairs, but responsibility for long-term maintenance will be handed over to the district government once the warranty period expires on 15 August. The province has urged local authorities to prevent damage from overloaded trucks and to maintain drainage systems to protect the road.

Factory Workers Strike Over Total Automation of Jobs

Hyundai workers in South Korea have initiated a three-day strike amid stalled wage negotiations, driven by fears that humanoid robots will eventually replace their jobs. The union is demanding formal negotiations before automation is introduced, income protections, and a higher retirement age. The strike highlights growing global tensions in the automotive industry as manufacturers invest heavily in AI and robotics.

Village Official's Wife in Gunungkidul Apologises After Explicit Video Call Goes Viral

The wife of a village official in Tanjungsari, Gunungkidul, has issued a public apology after screenshots of an explicit video call with another man circulated on social media. The incident was resolved through a community mediation led by local leaders, without formal police involvement. The sub-district head noted that any official sanctions would require a formal procedure, as the woman is a private citizen despite her husband's position.

ESDM says electric stove programme still in trial phase

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has confirmed its electric stove conversion programme remains in the testing phase, with trials underway involving state utility PLN and leading universities. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on imported LPG by evaluating the efficiency and monthly costs of various electric stoves for households with power connections below 900 kVA. A proposed budget of Rp 815.56 billion has been submitted for the 2027 state budget, reviving a policy previously shelved in 2022 to avoid burdening the public during post-pandemic economic recovery.

Prabowo: Approaching Two Years in Government, We Have Worked Very Hard

President Prabowo Subianto chaired a full cabinet meeting to evaluate his administration's performance as it nears the two-year mark. He asserted that the government has worked at an intense and rapid pace, achieving significant progress despite global turmoil. The President emphasised the collective mandate to deliver the best for the people and address the nation's substantial challenges.

Government Will Not Intervene in Legal Process of Former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah, Says Hasan Nasbi

Hasan Nasbi, President Prabowo Subianto's special communications adviser, has stated that the government will not interfere in the legal proceedings against former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) Febrie Adriansyah. The Attorney General's Office has confirmed that Adriansyah's suspect status remains intact despite the issuance of three new investigation warrants related to separate corruption cases. The cases involve alleged corruption in coal governance, PT Asabri, and debt settlement at a subsidiary of PT Krakatau Steel.

Elnusa Petrofin Boosts Fleet and Personnel to Accelerate Fuel Distribution Recovery in Medan

PT Elnusa Petrofin is intensifying its support for Pertamina Patra Niaga by deploying additional tanker trucks and personnel to normalise fuel distribution in Medan. The company has added 18 spot charter tanker trucks and 42 support crew, including 20 drivers from the Indonesian Army, while tightening monitoring of round-trip hours. The measures aim to ensure a safe, timely, and optimal supply of fuel to local filling stations.

Prabowo Reminds Cabinet That Every Government Has Its Time

President Prabowo Subianto convened his first full cabinet meeting in over four months, emphasising the transient nature of power and the mandate to solve pressing national issues. He highlighted ongoing challenges including low teacher salaries, unemployment, and extreme poverty, vowing to address them during his administration.

UII Rector Urges Strengthening Ethics and Basic Sciences in Educating Gen Z

The Rector of Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) has called on higher education institutions to refocus on student outcomes rather than lecturer activities, warning that many graduates lack competencies despite earning cum laude honours. He highlighted that Generation Z students, while innovative, often lack resilience, proper ethics, and a strong work ethic. The rector also expressed concern over declining interest in basic sciences and mathematics, which he said could have serious implications for Indonesia's future engineering workforce.

South Sumatra Police Commence Training for 131 New Recruits

The South Sumatra Regional Police have officially launched a five-month training programme for 131 prospective non-commissioned officers (Bintara) at the Betung State Police School. The curriculum, based on Outcome-Based Education, focuses on building professional character, technological literacy, and public service skills. The programme is part of a national effort to produce a new generation of police personnel capable of supporting public security and national development priorities.

Prabowo Complains of Being Attacked Over Free Nutritious Meals Programme

President Prabowo Subianto has hit back at critics of his flagship Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, dismissing claims it is wasteful. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, he contrasted the criticism with the lack of scrutiny over trillions of rupiah lost from Indonesia annually over the past 34 years. The president stressed the programme is essential to tackle child stunting, which affects at least a quarter of Indonesian children.

Paspi: Indonesia needs to strengthen palm oil diplomacy

Indonesia is urged to adopt a proactive palm oil diplomacy strategy to safeguard its competitiveness amid rising global trade barriers. The Palm Oil Agribusiness Strategic Policy Institute (Paspi) argues that diplomacy should function as market intelligence to anticipate and prevent discriminatory policies. While export diversification has reduced reliance on the European Union, experts stress that international advocacy must be paired with domestic governance reforms to enhance sustainability and market confidence.

Home Affairs Ministry Urges Local Governments to Optimise Data Collection for Housing Aid Recipients

The Home Affairs Ministry has called on regional administrations to accelerate and improve the accuracy of data collection for the Self-Help Housing Stimulant Assistance (BSPS) programme. Secretary General Tomsi Tohir stressed that local governments must ensure the home renovation scheme reaches impoverished families living in uninhabitable conditions. The ministry noted that only 124,376 potential recipients have been identified so far, out of a 2026 target of 400,000 substandard homes.

"Punished" by the World, Israel Becomes the Country Most Abandoned by Tourists

A new OECD report reveals a dramatic shift in global tourism patterns five years after the Covid-19 pandemic, with Israel suffering the steepest decline in international visitors. The country saw a 71 per cent drop in tourist arrivals compared to 2019, largely due to the outbreak of war in October 2023. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia led the growth charts with a 67 per cent surge, as the centre of tourism growth pivots towards the Middle East, North Africa, and South America.

Bank Jakarta Inaugurates New Look Branch at KCP Kebayoran Park, Presenting a More Modern Face

Bank Jakarta has officially launched its 'New Look Branch' concept at the Kebayoran Park Sub-Branch Office, marking a step in its corporate transformation towards modern and customer-centric services. The inauguration was attended by Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno, who praised the move as a commitment to supporting Jakarta's evolution into a global city. The bank aims to enhance its role as a regional development bank by expanding financial access and supporting economic growth in the capital.

Depok Man Detained After Forcing Children to Eat Chillies and Locking One in Freezer

A man in Cimanggis, Depok, has been arrested for allegedly abusing two seven-year-old children by challenging them to eat chillies and then locking one of them inside a freezer for over five minutes. The suspect, known as David, reportedly threatened the children to prevent them from telling their parents. Police have confirmed the suspect is in custody and will be transferred to the prosecutor's office, while both victims are suffering from psychological trauma and minor physical injuries.

West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini Caught in KPK Sting, Wealth Tops IDR 24 Billion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation. The anti-graft agency also sealed the regent's office and several related government departments. Public attention has turned to Zaini's official wealth report, which recorded total assets of IDR 24.04 billion in 2024, a significant increase from his previous declaration.

In-Depth Analysis of Indonesia's Industry and Investment Strengthening Strategy

Indonesia's strategic investment arm, Danantara, is spearheading national economic transformation by focusing on priority sectors such as food security, energy transition, and downstream mining. The initiative includes the launch of downstream projects worth Rp 116 trillion to bolster industrial resilience and add value to natural resources. CNBC Indonesia is hosting a strategic dialogue forum to examine Danantara's investment direction and its contribution to sustainable economic growth.

Police Detain Two Suspects in Rp 38.9 Billion Coal Procurement Corruption Case

Indonesia's National Police have detained two suspects in a corruption case involving invoice financing for coal procurement intended for PT PLN Batu Bara. The alleged irregularities, involving an Investment Manager from state-owned PT PPA and an executive from PT Bintang Abadi Sampurna, caused an estimated state loss of Rp 38.9 billion. Authorities have seized assets worth Rp 14.4 billion as part of recovery efforts.

Education Ministry to Launch Integrated National Schools to Tackle Quality Disparity

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing to establish Integrated National Schools (SNT) to address the uneven quality of education at junior and senior high school levels. Minister Abdul Mu'ti stated that the programme follows a direct directive from President Prabowo Subianto to gradually build SNT in 500 districts and cities by 2029. The initiative aims to bridge the gap in access to quality education and holistically develop students' interests, talents, and character.

Jakarta's 'Pick-Up' Service for Organic Waste Aims to Reduce Household Rubbish

Jakarta is tackling its waste problem at the source with a door-to-door organic waste collection service in East Jakarta. The initiative, which collects up to 1.5 tonnes of kitchen scraps twice a week, supports a gubernatorial instruction on waste segregation. The collected material is processed into maggot feed, reducing the burden on final disposal sites.

China's Moonshot pauses Kimi subscriptions amid hot demand, IPO push

Chinese AI startup Moonshot AI has temporarily halted new subscriptions for its Kimi K3 model due to overwhelming demand that strained its computing capacity. The company is also preparing for a potential Hong Kong initial public offering, having engaged Goldman Sachs and CICC, while seeking up to US$2 billion in fresh capital. The capacity crunch highlights the intense infrastructure demands of China's AI race, as firms like Moonshot and DeepSeek compete with US rivals despite chip export constraints.

Trimegah Economist Assesses BI Rate Needs to Rise by 25 Basis Points

Trimegah Sekuritas Indonesia's Chief Economist, Fakhrul Fulvian, has urged Bank Indonesia to raise its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points at the July 2026 Board of Governors meeting. He argues that despite recent positive market sentiment, the country still requires significant foreign capital inflows this year. Fulvian believes a rate hike is necessary to maintain the central bank's credibility following its pre-emptive policy stance and to attract the estimated US$11 billion in additional capital needed to stabilise the balance of payments and the rupiah.

Health Minister Calls for Improved Budget Blocking Governance

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has urged the Ministry of Finance to reform the mechanism for blocking state budgets, after revealing that a freeze of Rp 12.3 trillion caused the Health Ministry's 2025 budget realisation to plummet to a historic low of 42.9 per cent. He argued that blocked funds should not be counted as allocated budget and requested that any planned withdrawals be decided by June or September to allow for proper planning and parliamentary oversight.

Bank BSN Targets Rp87 Trillion in Assets by End of 2026 After Spin-Off

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) is targeting total assets of Rp87 trillion by the end of 2026 following its spin-off from PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk. The bank's assets reached Rp78.8 trillion in the first half of 2026, a 20.1% year-on-year increase, driven by strong growth in Sharia-compliant mortgage lending. Bank BSN's net profit rose 10.7% to Rp444 billion in the same period, with management focusing on maintaining asset quality for the remainder of the year.

Ministry Strengthens Collaboration to Fulfil Children's Rights on National Children's Day

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has reinforced cross-sector collaboration to ensure the fulfilment of children's rights and protection in Indonesia. Minister Arifah Fauzi emphasised the importance of the initiative during a National Children's Day event in Bogor, highlighting the need to support children's growth and aspirations. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries also contributed by donating 100 kilograms of mackerel to promote nutritional intake for children's development.

Hasto Demands BGN Reply on Alleged PDIP Cadre Involvement in Free Meals Programme

PDI Perjuangan Secretary-General Hasto Kristiyanto is pressing the National Nutrition Body (BGN) for a response to a letter requesting data on party cadres allegedly involved in the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The party sent the letter after a BGN official claimed all political parties were involved in managing the programme's service units. Hasto reiterated the party's ban on cadres profiting from the scheme and criticised its top-down implementation approach.

Indonesia Sends Full Squad to China Open 2026

Indonesia is fielding three singles players and nine doubles pairs across all categories at the China Open 2026, a Super 1000 tournament in Changzhou. Defending men's doubles champions Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri enter the competition fresh from their Japan Open victory. The tournament, offering a total prize of two million US dollars, runs from 21 to 26 July.

Judge Rejects Roy Suryo's Pretrial Motion, Calls It an Attempt to Delay Main Case

The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed a pretrial motion filed by Roy Suryo challenging his suspect status in a defamation case involving former President Joko Widodo's academic credentials. The judge ruled the motion was an abuse of legal procedure, as it was submitted after the case file had already been transferred to the court. The decision confirms that Suryo's suspect status remains legally valid.

Minister Warns Lecturers: Guide Students, Don't Take Over Community Work

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto has instructed lecturers to act as mentors rather than taking over students' roles during community empowerment programmes. He emphasised that students must be the main actors in driving change, while universities provide institutional support and ensure their fieldwork is converted into academic credits. The ministry reported high enthusiasm for the initiative, having funded 263 out of 957 proposals with a total budget of Rp30.1 billion last year.

Judge: Roy Suryo's Pretrial Motion Cannot Be Used to Delay Main Trial

A South Jakarta District Court judge has rejected Roy Suryo's second pretrial motion, ruling it was an abuse of process intended to delay the main trial over alleged defamation regarding President Joko Widodo's diploma. The judge emphasised that filing a pretrial motion after the main case has been transferred to court constitutes a misuse of legal procedure. Roy Suryo's legal team has indicated they will pursue a third pretrial motion despite the ruling.

UMY Expert: AI Mastery Now a Determinant of World Geopolitics

Arie Kusuma Paksi, an international political economy expert from Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, argues that artificial intelligence has evolved from a productivity tool into a strategic asset shaping global geopolitical power balances. He notes the US-China rivalry has shifted from trade wars to a competition for technological dominance, particularly over high-tech semiconductor chips. Paksi warns that Indonesia, which currently lacks a competitive semiconductor industry, must implement concrete strategies including strengthening data governance, boosting research incentives, and fostering local AI talent to avoid being left behind.

Purbaya Reveals Purpose of PFII Formation, Not Just Chasing Investment

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives have agreed to advance the bill on the Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII) to a plenary session vote. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated that the PFII is a strategic instrument to deepen domestic financial markets and strengthen Indonesia's position in the global financial ecosystem. The centre is expected to catalyse national financial sector development, support strategic projects, and attract productive investment.

PFII Bill to be Ratified Tomorrow, Completed in 3 Months as Mandated by P2SK Law

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) and the government have agreed to pass the International Financial Centre (PFII) Bill into law during a plenary session tomorrow. The legislation, consisting of 10 chapters and 73 articles, was completed within the three-month deadline stipulated by the Financial Sector Development and Strengthening (P2SK) Law. All eight factions in Commission XI approved the bill after intensive deliberations that began on 2 July 2026.

House Commission XI Agrees to Bring PFII Bill to Plenary Session

The House of Representatives' Commission XI and the government have agreed to advance the International Financial Centre Indonesia (PFII) Bill to a plenary session for final approval. The bill, which has expanded from 53 to 73 articles, aims to establish a special financial zone with incentives including tax breaks, golden visas, and the use of English and foreign currencies. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated the initiative is a strategic move to deepen Indonesia's financial markets and attract global investment.

INFID: Indonesia Has Strategic Opportunity to Promote Inclusive Development in BRICS

The International NGO Forum on Indonesian Development (INFID) has stated that Indonesia's BRICS membership offers a strategic opportunity to champion a more inclusive development agenda. The organisation emphasised that the bloc must prioritise workers' rights, inequality reduction, and social justice alongside economic growth. INFID highlighted key areas for Indonesia to advocate, including decent work standards, universal social protection, and a just green transition.

Coordinating Minister AHY Maps Out Institutional Roles in Supporting Bali's Development

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has detailed the specific responsibilities of various ministries and agencies in an integrated push for Bali's future development. The plan focuses on a unified ecosystem of infrastructure, connectivity, and spatial planning, with key tasks ranging from waste-to-energy projects and tourism dispersal to land legality and water taxi networks. AHY stressed that adequate funding and synchronisation between national and regional plans are critical to the programme's success.

Belitung Police Foil Smuggling of 600 Kilogrammes of Illegal Tin

Police in Belitung have thwarted an attempt to smuggle 600 kilogrammes of illegal tin sand to Jakarta, concealed within boxes of salted fish. The shipment, valued at approximately Rp90 million, was intercepted at Tanjungpandan port. A lorry driver has been detained, and authorities have issued a wanted notice for another suspect.

President Prabowo chairs plenary cabinet meeting at State Palace

President Prabowo Subianto convened a plenary cabinet session at the State Palace in Jakarta on Monday to review government programmes and accelerate priority initiatives. The meeting was attended by ministers, deputy ministers, agency heads, and special presidential advisers from the Merah Putih Cabinet.

TASPEN Strengthens ESG Implementation with Green Miles Programme

Indonesian state-owned pension fund PT TASPEN has launched the Green Miles Programme to encourage low-emission commuting among its employees. The initiative, running from July to October 2026, is part of the company's broader sustainability strategy to become a Center of Excellence in ESG implementation. TASPEN's efforts align with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita vision for sustainable development and environmental preservation.

Tax Office to Scrutinise Delinquent Accounts Before Full Asset Freeze

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has issued new guidelines allowing tax officials to request detailed financial information from banks and crypto exchanges before freezing the assets of tax delinquents. The procedure, outlined in Circular Letter SE-9/PJ/2026, empowers local tax office heads to obtain account numbers and balances to support debt collection. The rules also permit follow-up requests for transaction details if discrepancies arise regarding the timing or amounts involved in an asset freeze.

After Lawsuit Dismissed, Roy Suryo Pursues Third Pre-Trial Hearing to Claim Compensation

Roy Suryo is proceeding with a third pre-trial motion at the South Jakarta District Court, this time seeking compensation after his previous challenges to his suspect status were rejected. The new filing, registered under case number 118/Pid.Pra/2026/PN JKT.SEL, specifically demands damages related to his earlier pre-trial rulings. His legal team estimates the compensation claim at around Rp200 million, which they intend to donate entirely to orphanages and charities.

Minister of Women's Empowerment Receives 2026 Indonesian Children's Voice Document, Pushes for Child Aspirations to Form Policy Basis

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has formally received the 2026 Suara Anak Indonesia (Indonesian Children's Voice) document, compiled by child representatives from across the country. The document aggregates the aspirations of Indonesian children, gathered from the village to the national level, to serve as a foundation for child-friendly policymaking. The minister emphasised that listening to children's voices is a constitutional mandate and a state obligation, not merely an option.

KPK Arrests West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in Sting Operation, Legal Status Pending

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has apprehended West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini during a sting operation (OTT). The anti-graft agency confirmed the arrest but has not yet disclosed the specific corruption case involved. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those detained before officially naming any suspects.

Denza Partners with Daniel Craig to Strengthen Premium Image in Global Market

BYD's premium brand Denza has appointed British actor Daniel Craig as its global brand ambassador to bolster its image ahead of a major international expansion in 2026. The collaboration aims to position Denza as a leader in premium new energy vehicles, blending advanced technology with elegant European design. The partnership precedes the European launch of the Denza Z9GT flagship model in Paris on 8 April.

Tencent Launches WorkBuddy AI Assistant for Office Workers, Expands Indonesian Partnerships

Chinese tech giant Tencent has launched WorkBuddy, an AI-powered personal assistant application aimed at office workers, in Indonesia. The app, available on iOS, Android, and HarmonyOS, helps automate complex tasks such as cloud migration planning. Tencent is also deploying its Agent Development Platform (ADP) in Indonesia, assisting a major hospital group with AI-driven patient guidance and helping telecommunications clients streamline SIM card purchasing operations.

Rupiah Closes Weaker, US Dollar Rises to Rp17,930

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar on Monday, closing at Rp17,930 per dollar, reversing gains from the previous trading session. Escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East boosted demand for the safe-haven dollar, while markets also await the upcoming Bank Indonesia policy meeting.

Polda Metro Jaya Responds After South Jakarta Court Rejects Roy Suryo's Pretrial Motion

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected a pretrial motion filed by telematics expert Roy Suryo challenging his suspect status. Polda Metro Jaya welcomed the ruling, stating it confirms the pretrial motion was an attempt to delay the main case and that the primary investigation will now proceed.

Bank bjb Offers Easy Entry to Tangerang 10K Through Savings Programme with Complimentary Race Tickets

Bank bjb is providing a streamlined way for the public to join the Tangerang 10K race by offering complimentary tickets through a special savings programme. The initiative, running from 8 to 31 July 2026, allows customers to secure race entry by opening or upgrading specific savings products. The bank aims to promote both financial planning and a healthy lifestyle, reinforcing its support for the sport tourism ecosystem.

Indonesian Army Builds Public Facilities in Villages to Improve Residents' Lives

The Indonesian Army (TNI AD) is constructing public facilities, including five communal sanitation units (MCK), in rural Cianjur, West Java, to improve residents' quality of life. The initiative, part of the TNI Manunggal Membangun Desa (TMMD) programme, also includes road paving, repairs to uninhabitable houses, and the development of water sources and food security land. The projects commenced on 16 July 2026 and are scheduled for completion by 13 August 2026.

The Intersection of National Education Goals and Pesantren Values

The article explores the alignment between Indonesia's national education objectives, as mandated by the 1945 Constitution and the National Education System Law, and the values cultivated in Islamic boarding schools (pesantren). It argues that pesantren inherently fulfil the constitutional mandate to develop students' faith, piety, noble character, and intellectual capacity. The piece highlights how pesantren education holistically integrates spiritual, moral, and intellectual development to contribute to the nation's progress and the welfare of humanity.

Ministers and Agency Heads Gather at Palace Ahead of Cabinet Meeting

Ministers, deputy ministers, and heads of state agencies convened at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta ahead of a plenary cabinet session. President Prabowo Subianto is expected to deliver directives on accelerating flagship development programmes. The meeting saw the attendance of key coordinating ministers and special presidential advisors.

Want to Renounce Indonesian Citizenship? Prepare Rp 5 Million

The Indonesian government has raised the administrative fee for renouncing Indonesian citizenship from Rp 1 million to Rp 5 million. The new tariff is stipulated in Government Regulation No. 30 of 2026, signed by President Prabowo Subianto. The fee increase is attributed to a nomenclatural change in the ministry and the digitalisation of services.

KPK Arrests West Lombok Regent in Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation, marking the 17th such operation this year. The regent's office was sealed by KPK investigators following the operation. The KPK has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those detained.

BPI Danantara: Digital Sovereignty to Catalyse Industrial Growth

Indonesia's Investment Management Agency (BPI Danantara) asserts that strategic investment in digital infrastructure, such as the Nongsa Changi Cable, is crucial for strengthening national digital sovereignty. The agency views this connectivity as a foundation for driving innovation and competitiveness across various sectors. The initiative is expected to act as a catalyst for growth in industries including artificial intelligence, data centres, and manufacturing.

Aksara Mahasiswa 2026 Programme Opens, Focusing on Food Security and Waste

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has launched the 2026 Aksara Mahasiswa programme to fund student-led technological solutions for societal issues. The initiative features two schemes: Aksara Peduli, targeting food security, energy transition, health, and the creative economy, and Aksara Sirkular, specifically addressing national waste management. Successful proposals can receive funding between Rp80 million and Rp120 million, with implementation scheduled from August to December 2026.

Gerindra Affirms Febrie Adriansyah's Suspect Designation Does Not Require President Prabowo's Approval

The Gerindra Party has stated that the naming of former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah as a suspect in a corruption case does not require President Prabowo Subianto's consent. The party's spokesperson, Bahtra Banong, emphasised that the legal process is entirely within the domain of law enforcement agencies. The statement was made in response to claims by Adriansyah's lawyer, Hotman Paris Hutapea, who argued that presidential approval was necessary.

APPNIA Supports Jelajah SAPA, Emphasises Nutrition as Key to Children's Rights

The Association of Nutritious Product Companies for Mothers and Children (APPNIA) has reaffirmed that nutritional fulfilment is integral to children's rights during the Jelajah SAPA event in East Jakarta. The initiative, part of the 2026 National Children's Day celebrations, saw the handover of 200 aid packages and a dialogue with 90 children about their needs. The government highlighted that providing safe spaces for children to play and express themselves is crucial for their development.

Red and White Cabinet Ministers Arrive at Palace for Plenary Session

Ministers of the Red and White Cabinet convened at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta for a plenary session on Monday, the first such meeting in approximately four months. The session is expected to focus on President Prabowo's directives for accelerating government development programmes and flagship initiatives.

South Jakarta Court Rejects Roy Suryo's Second Pre-Trial Motion in Jokowi Diploma Case

The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed a second pre-trial motion filed by Roy Suryo challenging his suspect status in a defamation case linked to allegations of a fake diploma belonging to former President Joko Widodo. The judge ruled the motion was an attempt to delay proceedings, as the case had already been transferred to the East Jakarta District Court for trial. Roy Suryo's legal team has already filed a third pre-trial motion despite the rejection.

UK to Have New Prime Minister Today, Here's His Profile

Andy Burnham is set to become the United Kingdom's new prime minister today after being elected unopposed as Labour Party leader, replacing Keir Starmer. The former Mayor of Greater Manchester, known as the 'King of the North', will meet King Charles III to formally receive the mandate before announcing his cabinet. Burnham inherits significant challenges including sluggish economic growth and a high cost of living, and has pledged to focus on reducing living costs and rebalancing regional development.

BRI Insurance Pays Out Rp322 Million Heavy Equipment Claim in Pangkal Pinang

BRI Insurance has demonstrated its commitment to customer protection by settling a heavy equipment insurance claim worth Rp322 million for a loyal BRI customer in Pangkal Pinang. The swift and straightforward claims process highlights the importance of asset insurance in mitigating financial losses. The payout underscores the synergy between BRI and its insurance arm in providing comprehensive financial solutions.

The Anatomy of a Coal Project Corruption Case Costing the State Rp 38.9 Billion

The Indonesian National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) is investigating a corruption case involving coal project financing that resulted in state losses of Rp 38.9 billion. The case implicates three state-owned enterprises and involves the alleged manipulation of invoice financing procedures. Three suspects have been named, including an investment manager and a company director already serving a prison sentence for another crime.

Agriculture Minister Praises Central Java Governor, Promises 7,000 Water Pumps for Farmers

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has lauded Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi for his efforts in maintaining the province's status as a national food barn. During a visit to Brebes, the minister pledged an additional 5,000 water pumps, bringing the total to 7,000, to help farmers combat a prolonged dry season. The central government will also provide seeds and tractors to support Central Java's target of producing 10.5 million tonnes of rice in 2026.

KPK Arrests West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in 17th Sting Operation of 2026

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation, marking the agency's 17th such operation in 2026. The arrest adds to a growing list of regional heads and officials caught in corruption sweeps this year, including tax officers, a customs official, and several other regents. The KPK now has 24 hours to determine the legal status of those detained.

DPR and Government Agree on Indonesian International Financial Center Bill

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives have reached an agreement on the Indonesian International Financial Center (PFII) Bill, paving the way for its approval in an upcoming plenary session. The legislation aims to establish a special economic zone with independent institutions, tax incentives, and regulatory flexibilities to attract global investment and deepen the financial sector. The PFII is designed to boost national competitiveness by offering fiscal benefits, immigration facilities, and the use of foreign currencies and international legal standards within the designated area.

Cooking Oil DMO Realisation Sees Decline

Indonesia's Ministry of Trade has reported a slight month-on-month and significant year-on-year drop in the domestic market obligation (DMO) fulfilment for cooking oil in early July 2026. Officials deem the situation relatively under control, expecting a historical uptick in August or September. The data also showed that while the average price of the subsidised 'Minyakita' brand fell slightly, it remains above the official retail price ceiling.

Corrections Directorate Transfers 115 High-Risk Prisoners from East Java and South Sulawesi to Nusakambangan

The Directorate General of Corrections has relocated 115 high-risk prisoners from East Java and South Sulawesi to the maximum-security prison complex on Nusakambangan Island. The transfer, which involved a tightly guarded land and sea journey, is part of a national strategy to enhance security and order within the correctional system. This operation brings the total number of high-risk inmates moved to Nusakambangan under the current administration to 115.

Before Praperadilan Rejection, Roy Suryo Receives Birthday Surprise from Supporters at South Jakarta District Court, First Cake Slice for Former Deputy Police Chief

Roy Suryo, a suspect in a defamation case linked to alleged fake diplomas of Joko Widodo, received a 58th birthday surprise from supporters at the South Jakarta District Court. The celebration occurred moments before the court rejected his second pretrial motion challenging his suspect status. Suryo gave the first slice of cake to former Deputy Police Chief Komjen (Ret.) Oegroseno, who was attending the hearing.

Government taps 27,000 Warung Pangan partners to stabilize prices

The Indonesian government is leveraging the Warung Pangan digital platform, which already partners with over 27,000 micro and small enterprises across 108 cities, to stabilize food prices. Deputy Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq stated that optimizing this existing network is more effective than conducting temporary market operations. The initiative aims to streamline supply chains from large distributors to traditional markets, ensuring competitive prices for both subsidized and non-subsidized food commodities.

KPK Arrests West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini in a sting operation. The arrest was confirmed by a KPK deputy chair, though details of the case have not yet been disclosed. This action is part of a recent series of operations targeting regional heads across Indonesia.

Jardine Matheson Focuses on Developing Business in Developed Countries

Jardine Matheson is pivoting its investment strategy towards developed markets in the Asia-Pacific to balance its heavy exposure to Southeast Asia, particularly its reliance on Indonesian conglomerate Astra International. CEO Lincoln Pan stated the group aims to recycle at least US$4 billion in capital by 2030, targeting acquisitions in capital-light sectors like the recent A$2.4 billion purchase of Australian radiology provider I-MED. While investors welcome the increased transparency, some warn the shift into expensive developed-market assets risks creating an odd business mix and losing the company's traditional focus on emerging markets.

Astra Controller Jardine Matheson to Shift Focus Towards Developed Markets

Jardine Matheson, the controlling shareholder of Indonesian conglomerate Astra International, plans to rebalance its portfolio by increasing investments in developed Asia-Pacific markets. CEO Lincoln Pan cited a difficult operating environment in Indonesia, including recent permit issues, as a reason for seeking lower-risk opportunities. The company aims to fund new acquisitions, such as its recent purchase of Australian radiology provider I-MED, by recycling capital from underperforming assets.

Astra Controller Jardine Matheson to Shift Focus to Developed Markets, Rebalance Portfolio

Jardine Matheson, the controlling shareholder of PT Astra International, plans to increase its investments in developed Asia-Pacific markets to rebalance a portfolio heavily weighted towards Southeast Asia. CEO Lincoln Pan stated the company aims to recycle capital into higher-return assets in countries like Australia, while reaffirming its commitment to Astra despite acknowledging the difficult operating environment in Indonesia. The strategic pivot follows recent asset sales and a major acquisition in Australian healthcare, though some investors question the logic of mixing Indonesian automotive assets with developed-market businesses.

Nongsa Changi Cable Strengthens Batam-Singapore Digital Connectivity

The Nongsa Changi Cable (NCC), a 50-kilometre submarine cable, has officially commenced operations to bolster digital connectivity between Batam, Indonesia, and Singapore. The infrastructure aims to support the development of data centre ecosystems, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence in both nations. The launch was attended by Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, and Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister, Gan Kim Yong.

Habiburokhman Calls for Special Oversight Body in Asset Forfeiture Bill Implementation

House Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has stressed the need for a special supervisory body to prevent abuse of power in the implementation of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. He warned that without strict oversight, corrupt law enforcement officials could misuse the law for extortion rather than recovering state assets. The discussion took place during a hearing with academics and advocates at the parliament complex in Jakarta.

Nvidia's Reign Crumbles as Apple Reclaims Title of World's Most Valuable Company

Apple has overtaken Nvidia as the world's most valuable company, signalling a shift in investor sentiment away from pure-play AI chipmakers towards firms with clearer monetisation strategies. The change reflects growing scepticism about the immediate returns on massive AI infrastructure spending. Apple's resurgence is attributed to its potential to leverage user data for AI services, despite previous perceptions of it lagging in the AI race.

Ministers and Deputies Arrive at Palace for Plenary Cabinet Meeting

Members of the Indonesian cabinet have begun arriving at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta for a plenary cabinet meeting chaired by President Prabowo Subianto. The session is expected to focus on directives to accelerate development programmes and the President's flagship initiatives. A presidential adviser indicated that all government programmes will be reviewed during the meeting.

Sigi Literacy Advocate Calls on Local Writers to Document Regional Culture

The Bunda Literasi of Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, has urged aspiring writers and literacy groups to actively document the region's cultural wealth and local wisdom. She emphasised that writing is a strategic tool to preserve cultural identity and prevent it from being forgotten. The initiative aims to foster a sustainable writing ecosystem through collaboration between government, educational institutions, and the community.

Lovina Festival 2026 Set for 24-29 July with Array of Events

The Buleleng Regency Government has finalised preparations for the Lovina Festival 2026, scheduled from 24 to 29 July. The event, part of the national Kharisma Event Nusantara programme, will feature sports, cultural performances, and entertainment aimed at boosting tourism and the local economy in North Bali.

West Lombok Regent's Office Sealed After KPK Sting Operation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted a sting operation in West Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, resulting in the arrest of Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini. The anti-graft body has yet to disclose the full list of suspects or the specific case details. The apprehended individuals are currently being held for questioning, with the KPK having 24 hours to determine their legal status.

Kortas Tipikor: Coal-Related Corruption Allegedly Causes State Losses of Rp 38.9 Billion

The Indonesian Police's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has named three suspects in a corruption case involving invoice financing for a coal procurement project at PT PLN Batubara. The alleged irregularities between 2019 and 2020 are estimated to have caused state losses of Rp 38.9 billion. Authorities have seized assets worth Rp 14.4 billion and detained two suspects ahead of transferring the case to prosecutors.

Sales of Avanza, Brio and Similar Models Vulnerable to BI Rate Hike, Here's Why

The increase in Bank Indonesia's benchmark interest rate is expected to disproportionately affect sales of popular, affordable cars priced below Rp300 million, such as the Toyota Avanza and Honda Brio. As around 70 per cent of purchases in this price-sensitive segment are made on credit, higher financing costs could dampen consumer demand. Industry players anticipate that manufacturers and finance companies will need to introduce attractive promotional programmes to sustain purchasing power.

Pangdam XXI/RI Applauds 100% Completion of Red and White Village Cooperatives in Lampung

Lampung has become the first province outside Java to achieve 100 percent formation of the Red and White Village/Sub-district Cooperatives (KDKMP), with 1,124 units established. The achievement, lauded by Pangdam XXI/Radin Inten Major General Kristomei Sianturi, places Lampung fourth nationally. The military command supported the programme by accelerating infrastructure development, while the cooperatives themselves are managed through community consultation to boost local economic potential.

Jokowi Holds Reunion with UGM Classmates Ahead of Fake Diploma Trial

Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo hosted a small reunion with university friends from Gadjah Mada University at his Solo residence. The gathering took place as they prepare to attend an upcoming court session at the East Jakarta District Court regarding allegations of a fake diploma.

Chasing E20 Mandate, Energy Ministry Opens Door for Private Sector to Build Ethanol Plants

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is encouraging private companies to build bioethanol plants to meet the mandatory 20 percent ethanol blend in petrol by 2028. The initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to construct up to 50 new ethanol factories, supported by a revision of regulations to adjust blending capacities. Ensuring the availability of local raw materials remains a key challenge alongside the rapid construction of these facilities.

Iran Warns US: 'You Cannot Threaten Us, This Is Not Venezuela'

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed American claims that Tehran can be coerced through military pressure, drawing a sharp distinction between Iran's distributed power structure and Venezuela's. He recounted tense moments during nuclear negotiations, including asking US envoy Steve Witkoff if he had ever feared a meeting might be bombed. Araghchi insisted Iran cannot be threatened or bribed, revealing Washington offered infrastructure projects in exchange for concessions.

Roy Suryo's Pretrial Motion Deemed an Abuse of Process to Delay Main Hearing

A South Jakarta District Court judge has rejected a second pretrial motion filed by Roy Suryo, ruling that it was an attempt to delay the main trial regarding alleged defamation against former President Joko Widodo. The judge stated that the motion was filed after the case had already been transferred to the court, constituting an abuse of the pretrial procedure. The court emphasised that pretrial hearings can only postpone the main trial if the case is transferred while the pretrial is already in progress.

Hotman Paris Apologises to Journalists: I Was Emotional

Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has apologised for telling journalists 'do you even have a brain?' during a heated press conference last Friday. He explained his outburst was triggered by repeated questions about the corruption case involving his client, former Deputy Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah. The apology comes amid political warnings from Gerindra not to involve President Prabowo Subianto's name in the defence strategy.

Government Supports Growth of Music Performance Business

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is backing the development of the music performance industry to build a robust music tourism ecosystem. The ministry acknowledges challenges such as limited supporting infrastructure, licensing issues, and suboptimal packaging, and is promoting an integrated strategy to address them. Efforts include encouraging investment in venues, improving accessibility, and tackling ticket scalping.

Regrouping of Four Primary Schools in Tabanan Awaits Regent's Decree

The merger of four state primary schools in Tabanan Regency, Bali, is pending the issuance of a formal decree from the regent. The schools, located in Kerambitan and West Selemadeg districts, will continue normal teaching activities until the official decision is published. The regrouping is driven by low student numbers and the poor physical condition of some school buildings.

AWG Says Police Deportation of Palestinian Activist Contradicts Constitution

The Aqsa Working Group (AWG) has condemned the Indonesian police's arrest and deportation of a Palestinian citizen, arguing the action contradicts the 1945 Constitution and damages the country's image as a defender of Palestine. The group stated that the deportation, reportedly based on an Interpol red notice, legitimises Zionist crimes and lacks transparency. AWG demanded the government provide legal clarity and prove its commitment to Palestine through concrete protection policies rather than just diplomatic statements.

Metal Industry Leads Investment Realization in Indonesia by Mid 2026

Indonesia's basic metals industry attracted the highest investment in the first half of 2026, reaching Rp150.4 trillion, as the government's downstreaming push continues to reshape the economy. Downstream processing, particularly in bauxite and nickel, now accounts for nearly 30% of total investment, with projects concentrated outside Java. The government is preparing a comprehensive bauxite ecosystem, mirroring its successful nickel strategy.

Economist: Danantara's IFSWF membership boosts investor confidence

An economist has stated that Danantara Indonesia's acceptance as an associate member of the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds will enhance global investor confidence. The membership signifies international recognition of Danantara's commitment to global governance standards. Consistent application of the Santiago Principles is seen as key to securing long-term investor trust.

Government and DPR approve additional budget for ASDP and Pelni pioneer ferry services

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives (DPR) have agreed to allocate additional funds to state-owned ferry operators ASDP and Pelni to support pioneer sea transport services. ASDP will receive approximately Rp139 billion and Pelni around Rp70 billion to ensure smooth transportation in remote regions. The meeting also approved an alternative funding scheme for state bus operator Perum DAMRI, while a larger budget request from the Ministry of Transportation is still under review.

Purbaya: Transactions in Indonesia's Financial Centre to Use Foreign Currencies

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that business transactions within Indonesia's planned International Financial Centre will be conducted in foreign currencies. The bill, which includes tax incentives, golden visa provisions, and the adoption of English and international commercial law, has been agreed with the DPR for parliamentary approval.

Two Tankers Explode in Hormuz, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Speaks Out

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that two oil tankers suffered explosions and were disabled after attempting to transit a southern route in the Strait of Hormuz, which it deems unsafe. The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions, with Kuwait also reporting a second consecutive attack on a desalination plant. The escalating conflict has contributed to a surge in global oil prices above US$90 per barrel and a decline in shipping traffic through the strategic waterway.

Foreign Ministry Continues Efforts to Rescue Two Indonesian Nationals Held Captive in Myanmar

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry is intensifying efforts to secure the release of two female Indonesian nationals reportedly held captive in Myanmar. The Indonesian Embassy in Yangon has issued a diplomatic note and is coordinating with local authorities after receiving a ransom demand. The ministry reiterated warnings about the dangers of non-procedural overseas employment, particularly in online gambling and fraud sectors.

House Commission XI and Government Agree to Bring PFII Bill to Plenary Session Tomorrow

The House of Representatives' Commission XI and the Indonesian Government have agreed to advance the Bill on the Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII) to a plenary session for ratification on Tuesday. The decision follows a series of working meetings held by the working committee since early July. The bill, which consists of seven chapters and 53 articles, aims to establish a legal framework for the country's new financial hub.

BRIN discovers new species of shrimpgoby in Banyuwangi

Researchers from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have identified a new species of shrimpgoby, named Tomiyamichthys oriens, in the coastal waters of Banyuwangi, East Java. The discovery was confirmed through integrative taxonomy, combining morphological characteristics and DNA analysis. The finding highlights the vast, undocumented marine biodiversity still present in Indonesian waters.

South Jakarta Police Engage Communities, Distribute Aid in 'Jaga Jakarta On The Spot'

The South Jakarta Metropolitan Police conducted community outreach through its 'Jaga Jakarta On The Spot' programme, engaging residents in dialogue and distributing social assistance. The initiative, led by local police precinct chiefs, aims to strengthen partnerships and maintain public order. Officers also gathered feedback on security concerns and urged the public to report any potential disturbances.

Police Anti-Corruption Unit Names Three Suspects in Coal Investment Corruption Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) has named three suspects in an alleged corruption case involving investment financing for coal procurement intended for PLN Batu Bara. The suspects include an investment manager from state-owned PT PPA and two executives from PT Bintang Abadi Sempurna, who are accused of irregularities that caused state losses of Rp 38.9 billion. Two suspects have been detained ahead of their transfer to prosecutors, while the third is already serving a prison sentence for a separate offence.

South Kalimantan Bakesbangpol Urges Youth to Be Wise on Social Media to Prevent Radicalism

The National Unity and Political Agency (Bakesbangpol) of South Kalimantan is educating students to become smart, critical, and responsible digital citizens. The initiative aims to equip young people with the skills to verify information and recognise extremist propaganda in online spaces. The programme involves collaboration with the police counter-terrorism unit and local terrorism prevention forums.

Widodo Makmur Perkasa Targets Revenue of Rp 8 Trillion by Boosting Factory Utilisation

PT Widodo Makmur Perkasa Tbk (WMPP) is aiming to significantly increase revenue by raising the utilisation rate of its factories from the current 25-30%. The integrated livestock company plans a rights issue to fund this strategy, projecting revenue could reach up to Rp 8 trillion if operating hours are extended. The firm also calls for government support in strengthening regulations, easing bank financing, and addressing logistics and feed import costs to boost domestic meat production.

Time for Indonesia to Adopt Legally Binding Advance Rulings

The article argues that Indonesia's current tax ruling system lacks legal certainty compared to advance ruling mechanisms in countries like Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia. It highlights how business innovation often outpaces tax regulation, creating grey areas that increase compliance costs and investment risk, as illustrated by the recent bullion banking tax confusion. The piece calls for Indonesia to adopt a legally binding advance ruling regime to provide pre-transaction clarity and prevent disputes.

Hotman Paris Apologises After Remarks to Journalist Spark Criticism

Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has issued a public apology after his harsh remarks to a journalist during a press conference drew widespread condemnation from Indonesian press organisations. He explained the context of the incident, stating he was frustrated by repeated questions he could not answer, but acknowledged his reaction was unjustified.

Land Bank Urged to Strengthen Agrarian Conflict Resolution

Civil society groups and academics are urging Indonesia's Land Bank to play a stronger role in resolving agrarian conflicts. They have submitted five key recommendations, including the establishment of a special agrarian court and better data integration on abandoned lands. The Land Bank welcomed the input, stating it would serve as evaluation material for institutional strengthening.

Pegadaian offers gold custody service to secure assets during long trips

Pegadaian has introduced a physical gold custody service allowing customers to safely store bullion and jewellery while travelling for extended periods. The service provides professionally managed storage with layered security systems and insurance protection against loss or damage. This initiative offers an alternative to keeping valuables at home, reducing the risk of theft during absences such as the mudik exodus or holidays.

Government Assures B50 Mandate Will Not Reduce CPO Exports

The Indonesian government has assured that the mandatory implementation of 50 percent biodiesel (B50) will not negatively impact the export volume of crude palm oil (CPO). Officials cited the successful transition from B35 to B40 as evidence, noting that CPO export volumes actually increased alongside higher domestic biodiesel consumption. The B50 mandate is scheduled to take effect in July 2026 as part of efforts to reduce carbon emissions and achieve national energy security.

Bandung City Government Intensifies Patrols Amid Surge in Street Robberies

The Bandung municipal government is bolstering security measures in response to a recent spate of street robberies that have heightened public anxiety. Mayor Muhammad Farhan announced plans for a special meeting with the city police chief to address operational needs and reaffirmed the importance of community solidarity through the 'Warga Jaga Warga' (Neighbourhood Watch) initiative. The administration is also reworking its budget to expedite the installation of street lighting in dark areas, with the project expected to commence in the third quarter of 2026.

New Citizenship Service Tariffs to Take Effect Next Month

The Indonesian government has announced new tariffs for various citizenship services, including naturalisation and renunciation of Indonesian nationality, set to take effect in August 2026. The fees, outlined in Government Regulation No. 30 of 2026, include a significant increase for voluntary loss of citizenship, rising from Rp500,000 to Rp3.5 million. The regulation also details the conditions under which an Indonesian citizen may lose their nationality, such as acquiring foreign citizenship or prolonged residence abroad.

Polda Metro Jaya Respects Court's Rejection of Roy Suryo's Second Pretrial Motion

Polda Metro Jaya has stated it respects the South Jakarta District Court's decision to dismiss Roy Suryo's second pretrial motion regarding an alleged violation of the Electronic Information and Transactions Law. The court deemed the motion irrelevant as the main case has already proceeded to trial. Police confirmed the primary case will continue according to schedule and they are prepared to face any further legal challenges professionally.

Home Affairs Ministry reinforces Golden Indonesia vision in Papua Highlands

The Ministry of Home Affairs is strengthening the 'Golden Indonesia 2045' vision in the Papua Highlands province. Deputy Minister Ribka Haluk stressed the need for synchronisation between central and regional government programmes to achieve national development goals. The initiative was highlighted during a regional development planning forum in Wamena.

Full Text of Indonesia's International Financial Centre Bill Revealed: DPR Discusses 10 Chapters and 73 Articles

The House of Representatives (DPR) has finalised the draft of the International Financial Centre (PFII) Bill, which comprises 10 chapters and 73 articles. The legislation outlines the establishment of a special financial zone, including its institutional structure, permitted business activities, and a dedicated judicial system. The bill aims to create a robust legal framework to position Indonesia as a global financial hub.

Trump Urges UK to Begin North Sea Oil Production

US President Donald Trump has called on the British government to immediately commence oil production in the North Sea, claiming it would transform the UK's economy. His statement follows reports that incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham plans to approve new oil exploitation projects in the region. Trump asserted the North Sea holds enough high-quality oil reserves to sustain production for hundreds of years.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Releases 2027 Hajj Pilgrim List Early, Here's Why

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced the waiting list for the 2027 Hajj season far in advance to allow ample preparation time for both pilgrims and officials. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak stressed the need for strong engagement between civil servants and pilgrims, framing the ministry's role as a state institution focused on value transformation rather than merely a travel agent. The early verification process is underway at the regional level to ensure a more orderly and high-quality pilgrimage.

Palace Urges Public Not to Link President to Legal Process of Former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes

The Presidential Palace has urged the public not to associate President Prabowo Subianto with the ongoing legal proceedings against former Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah. Spokesperson Prasetyo Hadi stated that the legal process should be fully respected and that there is no requirement for presidential approval during the examination stage of an official. The statement comes in response to claims by Febrie's lawyer, Hotman Paris Hutapea, who suggested the case should be reviewed because his client was a key figure in the President's flagship food estate programme.

Hotman Paris Denies Embezzling Donations for Yuvita, Rp700 Million Handed Over and Remainder After Hospital Discharge

Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has refuted public speculation regarding the mismanagement of donations for Yuvita, a victim of false imprisonment and assault in Bandung. He confirmed that Rp700 million has been disbursed to the victim's family in two stages, with the remaining balance of approximately Rp1.8 billion to be transferred upon her discharge from hospital. The clarification follows social media concerns and a separate family dispute involving his children.

DPR Urges Police to Consistently Take Firm Action Against Resisting Criminals

A senior Indonesian legislator has called on the national police to consistently apply firm and measured action against criminal suspects who resist arrest. Ahmad Sahroni, Deputy Chairman of House Commission III, stated that such measures are necessary when officers face genuine threats, particularly from armed offenders. His comments follow a recent operation in which police shot two repeat vehicle theft suspects who fought back during their capture in Lampung.

115 High-Risk Prisoners from South Sulawesi and East Java Transferred to Nusakambangan

Indonesian authorities have relocated 115 high-risk prisoners from South Sulawesi and East Java to the maximum-security prison island of Nusakambangan. The transfer, conducted with heavy police escort, aims to improve security at the original facilities and provide more effective rehabilitation. Officials stated the operation reflects a commitment to reforming the correctional system and ensuring public safety.

Sorong Mayor Orders Civil Servants to Accelerate Development Programmes and Maintain Service Quality

Sorong Mayor Septinus Lobat has instructed all regional apparatus organisations to expedite the implementation of development programmes in the second semester of the 2026 budget, despite facing financial constraints. The mayor highlighted several innovative achievements, including a digital school enrolment system and the waiver of building permit fees, while urging faster budget absorption which currently stands at 38 percent. He also called for preparations for the 81st Indonesian Independence Day celebrations.

Bengkulu City Government Allocates Rp5.2 Billion for Three Flood-Prone Bridges

The Bengkulu City Government has earmarked Rp5.2 billion from the 2026 regional budget to construct three bridges in flood-prone areas. The project, a collaboration with the local police, aims to improve mobility and safety for residents frequently isolated by high rainfall. Construction is expected to be completed within three months.

Nagita Slavina Brings RANS Entertainment to the Stock Exchange, Attractive for Investors?

PT Rans Entertainment Indonesia Tbk, the company owned by celebrities Raffi Ahmad and Nagita Slavina, has officially launched its initial public offering (IPO) on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. The company is offering up to 2.52 billion new shares, aiming to raise IDR 429.25 billion in fresh capital. The move marks a significant step for the entertainment firm as it seeks to fund its post-IPO business expansion plans.

Indonesia Strengthens Music Tourism Ecosystem to Boost Economy

The Indonesian government is enhancing the music tourism ecosystem to drive economic growth and global competitiveness. The Ministry of Tourism views international concerts as key economic drivers, leveraging the country's large population and rising tourist numbers. Coordinated efforts are underway to ensure legal compliance, develop integrated concert travel packages, and streamline licensing for major events.

Video: As AI Era Looms, Indonesia's Internet Infrastructure Faces Disparity

Indonesia's internet infrastructure is strengthening but remains unevenly distributed, raising questions about its readiness for the AI-driven surge in data traffic. The Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association (APJII) notes that while internet penetration has reached 81.7%, a significant urban-rural connectivity gap persists due to high infrastructure costs in the archipelago. APJII's Jakarta chairman, Hendry, discussed these challenges in a CNBC Indonesia interview.

Airlangga Showcases Major Investments Entering Indonesia in Front of Singapore

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto highlighted significant foreign investments flowing through Batam, including a 120 MW facility by BW Digital and Oracle's new cloud computing region. Speaking at a ceremony attended by Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, he emphasised the Nongsa-Changi digital corridor's role in driving economic growth. Airlangga expressed hope that the expanding data centre ecosystem would help Indonesia achieve its 8% growth target.

Not Just GPA: 7 Criteria HR Departments Seek in Fresh Graduates

Indonesian companies are shifting their recruitment focus away from Grade Point Average (GPA) towards practical skills and digital adaptability. A university head highlights the need for industry-linked curricula and internships to bridge the gap between academia and modern workforce demands. The article outlines seven key attributes, including AI adaptability and a growth mindset, that recruiters now prioritise in fresh graduates.

Canada Implements New Border Measures in Response to Ebola Outbreak

Canada has announced new border restrictions targeting foreign nationals who have recently been in the Democratic Republic of Congo to mitigate the risk of Ebola importation. While Canadian citizens and permanent residents returning from affected regions will be allowed entry, they must undergo health screenings and a mandatory 21-day quarantine.

Initiative on Joint Promotion of World Cultural Heritage Launched in Chongzuo, China

China and ASEAN member states have launched a joint initiative to promote world cultural heritage, formalised during a forum in Chongzuo, Guangxi. The agreement establishes a shared information mechanism and integrated platform to enhance cross-border heritage promotion and conservation. The initiative, coinciding with the 35th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue relations, aims to use culture and technology to strengthen regional ties and build a closer shared future.

Energy Ministry Targets All Petrol Stations to Sell B50 Biodiesel by 1 October 2026

Indonesia's Energy Ministry aims to have all petrol stations nationwide dispensing B50 biodiesel by 1 October 2026, following its mandatory launch in July. The transition period allows companies to deplete existing B40 stocks and adjust blending processes. The programme is projected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 44.46 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent and save up to Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange.

Propan Affirms Commitment to Supporting Arts and Culture Development at Artjog 2026

PT Propan Raya ICC has reinforced its dedication to Indonesia's arts and culture by serving as the Official Paint Partner for Artjog 2026. The company supplied high-quality paints to enhance the Jogja National Museum venue for the contemporary art exhibition, which runs from 19 June to 30 August 2026. The partnership underscores Propan's ongoing support for the artistic ecosystem and aims to enrich the visual experience for visitors.

Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Encourages Tech Solutions Through Gemastik 2026

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is urging university students to develop impactful, technology-based innovations to address societal challenges through the 2026 Gemastik competition. The event aims to foster lifelong learning and collaborative problem-solving, moving beyond mere technical mastery. Registration for the 19th edition, themed 'Impactful, Inclusive, and Sustainable Towards a Smart Society', opens in July 2026.

House Special Committee Discusses Special Island Region Fund

The Indonesian House of Representatives' special committee is formulating a mechanism for a special island region fund to accelerate development in archipelagic areas. The committee is gathering input in Maluku to ensure the fund harmonises with existing laws and addresses regional disparities. The bill also aims to protect the rights of coastal and indigenous communities.

2,585 Families Across Six Villages in Karawang Affected by Drought

A total of 2,585 families, comprising 7,704 individuals, across six villages in Karawang, West Java, are currently experiencing a clean water crisis due to the prolonged dry season. The affected areas span three sub-districts, with the number of impacted residents increasing compared to three days prior. Local authorities have distributed 152,000 litres of clean water and urged residents to use water wisely and report shortages promptly.

Unesa Chat Group Scandal: AI-Generated Content Used in Sexual Harassment

An investigation at Surabaya State University (Unesa) has uncovered that a student WhatsApp group used for sexual harassment also generated unethical AI content targeting a victim. The case, which initially involved six students, has expanded to 26 victims, including four lecturers. The university has suspended the reported students pending a full investigation under the Ministry of Education's regulations.

Indonesia Prepares International Financial Centre with English as Official Language

The Indonesian government has announced that its planned International Financial Centre (PFII) will operate in English and use foreign currencies. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa outlined a special regulatory framework for the centre, which will adopt common law principles and offer incentives such as golden visas and tax breaks. The initiative aims to align the centre with international commercial law and global financial standards.

West Lombok Regent's Office Sealed by KPK, Regional Secretary: 'We Were Shocked and Blank'

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has sealed the offices of West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini and a senior public works official in a dawn raid. Regional Secretary Akhmad Saikhu stated the local government was caught completely off guard, having received no prior notification. The regent is reportedly being held at the NTB Police Mobile Brigade headquarters for further proceedings.

West Papua Immigration Expands Educational Programme to Prevent Transnational Crime

The West Papua Regional Office of the Directorate General of Immigration is expanding its 'Imigrasi Menyapa Pelajar dan Mahasiswa' (Impresi) programme through a new partnership with IHTP Papua and the Manokwari Education Office. The collaboration aims to enhance public education and involve academic institutions in monitoring foreign nationals to prevent transnational crimes, including human trafficking. Officials noted that the vast territory of Papua requires optimal joint oversight, making this the first such partnership for the newly upgraded institute.

Qatar and Iraq Discuss US-Iran Peace MoU and Hormuz Shipping

Qatar's Emir and Iraq's Prime Minister have urged all parties to commit to dialogue and implement a US-Iran memorandum of understanding aimed at de-escalation. The leaders also stressed the importance of guaranteeing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and maintaining regional stability. The discussions come amid renewed tensions in the Middle East following reciprocal attacks.

Askrindo Expands Insurance Access to Protect Sorong's Growing Fisheries Sector

State-owned insurer Askrindo has signed an agreement with the Sorong Fisheries Port Authority to broaden risk management coverage for local fishers. The initiative aims to safeguard the livelihoods of coastal communities in Southwest Papua, where the fisheries sector is a key economic driver. The programme includes insurance products for personal accident, vessels, micro-enterprises, and homes, alongside financial literacy education.

What's Happening with BNBR Shares, the Oldest Bakrie Group Conglomerate?

Shares of PT Bakrie & Brothers Tbk. (BNBR), one of the Bakrie Group's oldest entities, are drawing market attention due to a planned rights issue and recent share price movements. Despite a year-to-date decline, the stock has shown consistent strengthening over the past month. The company's corporate actions and price trajectory are under close scrutiny.

Presidential Palace Urges Hotman Not to Drag Prabowo's Name into Febrie Case

The Presidential Palace has requested lawyer Hotman Paris not to involve President Prabowo Subianto in the defence of his client, former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah. State Secretary Minister Prasetyo Hadi emphasised that the legal process against Febrie should proceed according to the applicable mechanisms without presidential interference. The statement follows Hotman's public questioning of why the police did not seek the President's permission before naming Febrie a suspect in multiple corruption and money laundering cases.

Two Oil Tankers Explode While Transiting the Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed two oil tankers exploded in the southern Strait of Hormuz after entering what it described as an unsafe shipping lane under US military pressure. The IRGC warned the strategic waterway would remain dangerous for oil, gas, and fertiliser vessels as long as 'American aggression' persists. The incident marks a sharp escalation in tensions, with both Iran and the US exchanging attacks in recent weeks, derailing a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire.

Land Fire in East Luwu Burns One Hectare, South Sulawesi Faces Deforestation Emergency

A land fire in East Luwu, South Sulawesi, has destroyed one hectare of vegetation, highlighting the region's severe deforestation crisis. The blaze was extinguished by a joint task force within three hours, with no casualties reported. Authorities have reiterated warnings against open burning as the dry season is expected to persist until September 2026.

Hotman Paris Apologises to Journalists After Losing Temper During Questioning

Prominent lawyer Hotman Paris Hutapea has issued a public apology to Indonesian journalists and press organisations after telling a reporter 'do you have a brain or not?' during a press conference. The incident occurred after he was repeatedly questioned about a case involving his client, former Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah, which he felt he lacked the capacity to answer. The apology follows strong condemnation from the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) and the Legal Journalists Association (Iwakum), who described the remark as an insult to the profession.

North Sumatra Police Handle 3,865 Drug Cases Involving 4,628 Suspects

The North Sumatra Regional Police handled 3,865 narcotics cases involving 4,628 suspects in the first half of 2026. Authorities seized over 5.3 tonnes of drugs and 93,990 millilitres of liquid narcotics, including nearly a tonne of crystal methamphetamine. The force also destroyed a significant haul of seized evidence and urged the public to report any suspected drug trafficking activities.

KPK Issues New Investigation Order in Banjarmasin Tax Restitution Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has issued a new investigation order (sprindik) to expand its probe into a bribery case involving a tax restitution payment at the Banjarmasin Madya Tax Office. The case originated from a Rp 48.3 billion restitution claim by PT Buana Karya Bhakti, which led to a sting operation earlier this year. Former tax office head Mulyono, who is already a suspect, was re-examined as part of the development of the case.

Dengue Fever Cases in Garut Surge Significantly, 869 Test Positive and 3 Fatalities Reported

Dengue fever cases in Garut Regency, West Java, have risen sharply from January to July 2026, with 869 confirmed infections and three deaths. Health officials attribute the surge to unpredictable weather patterns and a lack of public attention to environmental cleanliness. Authorities are intensifying prevention efforts, including fogging and public education on mosquito nest eradication.

Five Men Sentenced for Fatal Assault on Man Sleeping in Sibolga Mosque

A court in Sibolga, North Sumatra, has sentenced five men to prison terms ranging from 15 months to 12 years for the fatal beating of a man who was sleeping in a mosque. The victim, Arjuna Tamaraya, was attacked at the Agung Mosque in Sibolga in a case that has drawn attention to vigilante violence. The harshest sentence was handed to Syazwan Situmorang, who received 12 years for his role in the killing.

Searching for the ideal design for eradicating corruption

The recent case involving a senior prosecutor has reignited fundamental questions about Indonesia's institutional design for combating corruption. Overlapping authority among the police, the Attorney General's Office, and the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has led to conflicts of interest and inefficiency. Experts argue that a clear distribution of functions and genuine independence for anti-corruption bodies are essential for effective law enforcement.

On Children's Day, Minister Arifah Reaffirms Government's Commitment to Fulfilling Children's Rights

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has reiterated the government's dedication to ensuring Indonesian children's rights to care, education, and health. Speaking ahead of the 42nd National Children's Day, she highlighted flagship programmes such as the Free Nutritious Meals initiative and free health check-ups. The government is also coordinating with state-owned enterprise PNM to provide economic empowerment training for women to support family welfare.

Minister AHY focuses Bali's development on four key priority clusters

Agrarian and Spatial Planning Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has outlined four priority clusters for Bali's development, with tourism as the main driver after it generated Rp176 trillion in foreign exchange. The minister highlighted the urgent need to manage traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overconcentration of development in the south of the island. Bali's acting governor confirmed that detailed infrastructure needs have been identified to improve inter-regional connectivity and support the tourism sector.

West Papua records IDR 1.2 billion in MSME transactions during Pesparawi

The West Papua provincial government reported that micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) product sales during the National Ecclesiastical Choir Festival (Pesparawi) XIV in Manokwari reached IDR 1.2 billion, doubling the initial target. Handicrafts such as noken bags and Papuan batik were the top-selling items. The success is being used as a benchmark for integrating MSME promotion into future tourism and cultural events.

Ngurah Rai Immigration Serves 32 Passport Applications During Weekend 'Pasporia' Programme

The Ngurah Rai Immigration Office processed 32 passport applications during its 'Pasporia' weekend service at Discovery Mall Bali, doubling the number from the previous week. The initiative aims to provide flexible access to immigration services for residents who are occupied during regular working hours. Officials noted the growing public enthusiasm reflects the success of the programme in meeting community needs for more accessible public administration.

Adhi Karya Integrates ESG Principles Across All Projects

State-owned construction firm PT Adhi Karya has embedded Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles throughout its business lines and project execution. The company asserts this commitment ensures infrastructure development delivers long-term benefits for society, the environment, and the economy. Its efforts were recently recognised with the Best Contractor Sector award at the IndoBuildTech Awards 2026.

Ministry sends relief supplies after deadly clash in East Flores

The Indonesian Social Affairs Ministry has dispatched emergency aid, including food and bedding, to East Flores following a deadly clash between residents of two villages. Minister Saifullah Yusuf confirmed that three people were killed and 20 homes damaged, while urging restraint and supporting local authorities in restoring public order. The ministry is coordinating with the East Flores district government to verify victim data and provide further assistance.

Corruption Eradication Requires Collective Support, Not Just Presidential Commitment

A senior academic has stated that President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to eradicating corruption must be supported by all sectors of society. Moestar Putrajaya, Chairman of the Jayabaya University Foundation, described corruption as a betrayal of public trust that robs the nation of its future. He emphasised that the fight against graft requires a united front from the government, law enforcement, educational institutions, and the public.

Minister cites World Cup screenings as boost for local economies

Indonesia's Minister of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises has highlighted the positive economic impact of public World Cup screenings, noting they stimulated local businesses and empowered MSMEs through increased sales of food and beverages. The ministry hosted a final screening event for online taxi drivers to strengthen community ties and reaffirm President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to supporting gig workers. The initiative aligns with broader government efforts to enhance the ride-hailing ecosystem and promote unity among small business actors.

Minister backs Indonesian children's right to voice policy aspirations

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifatul Choiri Fauzi has affirmed that listening to children's voices is a national obligation, not an option, after receiving the 2026 Suara Anak Indonesia (SAI) document. The SAI compiles aspirations from children across all administrative levels, advocating for safer, healthier, and more inclusive environments. The ministry has committed to facilitating direct dialogue between children and key stakeholders through its Kemudi programme, ensuring their input shapes concrete policies.

Judge Rules Roy Suryo Misused Pretrial Motion to Delay Main Trial

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected a pretrial motion filed by Roy Suryo, ruling that the application was an abuse of legal procedure intended to stall his trial over the alleged defamation of former President Joko Widodo's academic credentials. The judge determined that filing a pretrial motion after the case file had already been transferred to the trial court constituted an attempt to disrupt proceedings. Roy Suryo and Tifauzia Tyassuma, also known as dr Tifa, were named suspects in the diploma slander case, with the latter's trial already underway.

BSI Explore 2026 Launches in 38 Villages with Three Pillars of Community Empowerment

Universitas Bina Sarana Informatika (UBSI) is deploying its BSI Explore 2026 programme across 38 partner villages, focusing on education, socio-economic empowerment, and village potential development. The month-long initiative aims to create sustainable benefits by aligning student-led projects with the specific needs of each rural community. The programme underscores the university's commitment to contributing to national development through direct community engagement.

Minister Yusril: Pesantren Vision Aligns with President Prabowo's Astacita

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has stated that the vision of Islamic boarding schools, particularly in developing quality human resources and strengthening science and technology, aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Astacita programme. He made the remarks during the 10th anniversary of the Dea Malela Modern International Pesantren in Sumbawa, praising its role in producing globally minded and spiritually grounded graduates. The government views the institution as a visionary centre of Islamic education in eastern Indonesia, attracting students from various countries.

Indonesia's Crude Oil Price Projected at US$71 per Barrel in July, Says Energy Ministry

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources projects the Indonesian Crude Price (ICP) will average between US$67 and US$71 per barrel in July 2026. The final price will depend on global market developments and geopolitical conditions, including potential escalations between Iran and the US. This follows a significant drop in the June ICP to US$83.45 per barrel from US$106.56 in May, driven by easing tensions in the Middle East.

Police Warn High School Students to Guard Against Juvenile Delinquency

Police in Sidoarjo have provided intensive guidance to new high school students to protect them from juvenile delinquency, including online gambling and drug abuse. Officials highlighted the increasing number of minors facing legal issues due to negative influences such as addiction and street violence. The initiative aims to steer students towards academic focus and away from activities that could jeopardise their futures.

Government Blocks 307,000 QR Codes for Subsidised Fuel Users, Here's Why

Indonesia's downstream oil and gas regulator has blocked over 307,000 QR codes and sanctioned nearly 2,700 petrol stations to curb the misuse of subsidised fuel. The crackdown, based on digital transaction data and physical inspections, uncovered schemes involving duplicate digital identities and modified vehicle tanks. The government estimates these measures have saved the state budget nearly Rp 470 billion in potential losses.

Court Rejects Roy Suryo's Pretrial Motion, Upholds Suspect Status in Jokowi Diploma Defamation Case

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected a pretrial motion filed by Roy Suryo, affirming the legality of his suspect status in the alleged defamation case concerning President Joko Widodo's academic diplomas. The judge ruled that the pretrial motion was an attempt to delay the main trial and constituted an abuse of the legal process. This decision allows the criminal proceedings against Suryo to proceed to the main trial.

22 Villages in Banjar Regency Hit by Drought

Drought conditions in South Kalimantan's Banjar Regency have left 22 villages across nine sub-districts without adequate water sources. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has distributed over 492,000 litres of clean water and provided water tanks to affected communities. Authorities are also monitoring concurrent forest and land fires in the region while considering extending weather modification operations.

Kudus holds student and teacher exchange to bridge state-private school gap

The Kudus district government in Central Java has launched a student and teacher exchange programme between state and private primary and secondary schools. The initiative aims to improve education quality and reduce disparities between favoured and non-favoured schools by allowing participants to experience different learning environments. This year's programme has been extended to two weeks and includes teachers for the first time.

Prabowo's Anti-Corruption Commitment Requires Broad Support, Says Academic

A senior academic has called for all sectors of Indonesian society to support President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to eradicating corruption, describing it as a crucial test of his leadership. Moestar Putrajaya, chairman of the Jayabaya University Foundation, argued that corruption is a betrayal of the people's trust that robs citizens of education, healthcare, and proper development. He stressed that the fight against corruption requires a united front from government, law enforcement, educational institutions, businesses, the media, and the public.

The Formation of a Healthcare Ecosystem Where Citizens No Longer Sell Their Assets

Banyumas Regency has developed an integrated healthcare ecosystem that prevents citizens from falling into poverty due to medical costs. The system combines Universal Health Coverage (UHC) with free ambulance services from the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI), ensuring patients with chronic illnesses like kidney failure can access treatment without financial ruin. This collaborative model has enabled patients to maintain their livelihoods and even save for personal goals, such as performing the umrah pilgrimage.

Customs Foils Circulation of 42,400 Illegal Cigarettes in Sigi

The Pantoloan Customs Office has seized 42,400 sticks of illegal cigarettes in Sigi Regency, Central Sulawesi, preventing an estimated state loss of Rp 94.89 million. The illicit products, which lacked excise bands, were intercepted following an intelligence tip-off about their transportation. Authorities emphasised that the circulation of illegal cigarettes undermines state revenue and creates unfair competition for compliant businesses.

West Lombok Regent Allegedly 'Entrusted' at NTB Police Mobile Brigade Headquarters

West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini has reportedly been detained by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and is being held at the NTB Police Mobile Brigade headquarters. The KPK has also sealed the regent's office, the office of the Head of the Public Works and Spatial Planning Department, and the office of the Director of PT Air Minum Giri Menang. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the regent's status.

Kak Seto Proposes Child Protection Section at Neighbourhood Level in Jakarta

Child protection advocate Seto Mulyadi has proposed establishing a Child Protection Section at the neighbourhood (RT) level across Jakarta. The initiative, already implemented in several other regions, aims to empower communities to prevent violence against children. Governor Pramono Anung stated the Jakarta provincial government will review the proposal.

Free Nutritious Meals Programme Resumes, Deputy Food Minister Reveals Impact on Chicken Egg Prices

Indonesia's Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, has attributed a recent rise in chicken egg prices to increased demand from the resumption of the school term and the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. Officials noted that prices are recovering from a recent sharp decline, with the government having previously intervened to support prices at the farm level. The National Food Agency confirmed that procurement for the MBG programme is a key factor driving the current demand.

Regulation Requiring Citizens to Pay Rp5 Million to Renounce Indonesian Citizenship Takes Effect 1 August 2026

The Indonesian government has issued a new regulation introducing a Rp5 million fee for citizens wishing to formally renounce their Indonesian nationality, effective 1 August 2026. The regulation, part of a broader non-tax state revenue tariff scheme, also sets fees for naturalisation applications, ranging from Rp25 million for those based on marriage to Rp75 million for standard foreign applicants. The policy, signed by President Prabowo Subianto, simultaneously removes certain citizenship service fees, including those for naturalisation conducted in the government's interest.

Israel Joins Jordan in Intercepting Iranian Missile Targeting Aqaba

Israeli and Jordanian forces jointly intercepted an Iranian missile aimed at the Jordanian city of Aqaba, according to military sources. The incident triggered air raid sirens in Amman and other parts of Jordan, while authorities denied reports of evacuations at Aqaba's airport and port. The interception follows recent Iranian attacks that resulted in the first US military casualties in Jordan since hostilities resumed this month.

BNPB Confirms 3-Hectare Land Fire in Gresik Housing Estate Extinguished, Cause Still Under Investigation

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that a fire which swept through three hectares of vacant land within the Sentraland housing complex in Gresik, East Java, has been fully extinguished. No casualties were reported from the incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the blaze while monitoring the site to prevent any reignition.

Man Arrested in Depok for Allegedly Forcing Children to Eat Chillies and Entering Them into a Freezer

A man identified as David has been arrested in Cimanggis, Depok, for allegedly abusing two children by forcing them to eat chillies and then locking them in a freezer. The suspect is being charged under Indonesia's child protection laws. The victims reportedly suffered psychological trauma and minor physical injuries.

Foreign Investors Net Sell Rp302 Billion in First Session, But Caught Snapping Up BBRI

Foreign investors recorded a net sell of Rp302.86 billion across all markets during the first trading session on Monday, even as the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) surged 0.86% to 6,228.92, driven by banking and telecommunication stocks. Despite the overall selling pressure, overseas funds aggressively accumulated shares of state-owned lender Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI) with a net buy of Rp116.70 billion. The market's positive movement occurred ahead of key central bank decisions this week, including Bank Indonesia's policy rate announcement on Wednesday.

Iskandar Kunaefi Appointed President Director of PT Pos Indonesia

State-owned postal service PT Pos Indonesia has appointed M. Iskandar Kunaefi as its new President Director, replacing Daud Joseph who resigned after just three months in the role. The leadership change comes as the company undergoes a broader organisational restructuring, including splitting the finance and risk management directorate. The appointment follows the identification of long-standing financial and governance issues, with the sovereign wealth fund Danantara indicating that a fundamental overhaul of the company is required.

Papua Provincial Government Appoints National Paskibraka Representatives as Ambassadors of Nationalism

The Papua Provincial Government has expressed hope that two local students selected for the 2026 National Paskibraka will become ambassadors of nationalism upon their return. The students are expected to inspire Papuan youth by upholding the values of Pancasila, unity, and discipline. They were chosen through a rigorous selection process and are currently undergoing training in Jakarta and Depok ahead of the 81st Independence Day ceremony.

Perumda Pasar Suggests Affirmative Policy for BGN to Involve MSMEs in SPPG

A director of a regional market company in Bogor has urged the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) to adopt an affirmative policy that involves local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG). He argued that traditional market traders are currently excluded from direct participation in the free nutritious meal programme, acting only as secondary suppliers. The proposal calls for clear pricing standards and the use of credible aggregators, such as regional-owned enterprises, to integrate thousands of small traders into the supply chain.

Six Airlines Apply for Jet Routes from Bandung's Husein Airport, Boosting Connectivity

Six airlines have formally applied to operate jet services from Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport as part of plans to optimise the airport's operations. The carriers, including Citilink, Super Air Jet, and Garuda Indonesia, have proposed domestic and international routes. The move is expected to strengthen regional connectivity and support economic growth, trade, and tourism in West Java.

West Java Police Complete Case File on Woman's Confinement in Bandung

West Java Regional Police have finalised the case file against Taufik Hidayat, the suspect in the severe abuse and confinement of a woman identified as YTR in Bandung. The file has been declared administratively complete, though investigators are still cross-checking witness statements to strengthen the legal construction. The case is expected to be transferred to the prosecutor's office shortly.

Education Ministry to Operate 17 New Integrated National Schools

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is preparing to launch 17 new Integrated National Schools (SNT) across Indonesia this year, with transitional classes already being arranged. The initiative, which has received Rp9.12 trillion in additional budget, is part of a presidential directive to establish 500 such schools by 2029. The new schools will be located in various regions including Bogor, Cianjur, Gowa, and the new capital Nusantara.

Accelerating Bauxite Downstreaming to Boost National Aluminium Ecosystem

Indonesia is intensifying its bauxite downstreaming efforts to maximise the value of its vast reserves, with investment realisation in the sector surging by 143.58% year-on-year to Rp 53.1 trillion in 2025. The operation of the Smelter Grade Alumina (SGA) facility in Mempawah by Borneo Alumina Indonesia is set to eliminate Inalum's reliance on imports, processing domestically mined bauxite into higher-value alumina. This strategic push is part of a broader roadmap to support the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors, with plans for a second-phase smelter already underway.

Zulhas: 'Merah Putih' Village Cooperatives Are Not Supermarkets

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has clarified that the 'Merah Putih' Village Cooperatives will function primarily as distributors of subsidised goods and agricultural produce, not as retail supermarkets. The government is finalising a presidential regulation to govern their operations, including the distribution of aid and market interventions. The programme aims to complete 35,872 outlets by August, with over 16,000 already built.

Roy Suryo Receives Birthday Surprise Ahead of Pretrial Hearing in South Jakarta Court

Roy Suryo, a suspect in a defamation case involving former President Joko Widodo, was given a surprise 58th birthday celebration by supporters at the South Jakarta District Court. The event occurred just before the second pretrial hearing regarding the legality of his suspect status. Suryo has also filed a separate lawsuit seeking compensation from the Metro Jaya Police.

US prepares larger-scale attack on Iran

The United States is reportedly planning a broader military campaign against Iran, augmenting its forces in the Middle East with additional fighter jets and refuelling aircraft. The escalation follows a brief ceasefire and a subsequent exchange of strikes, though US capabilities may be constrained by dwindling ammunition stockpiles. The renewed hostilities mark a significant intensification after a memorandum of understanding to end the conflict collapsed.

Court Rejects Roy Suryo's Pre-Trial Motion on Suspect Designation

The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed a pre-trial motion filed by telematics expert Roy Suryo challenging his designation as a suspect. The ruling comes after the same court previously found procedural flaws in his arrest and detention, though it upheld the validity of the investigation. Suryo has separately filed a new lawsuit seeking compensation from the Jakarta Metropolitan Police.

ESDM Targets Full B50 Biodiesel Distribution at Fuel Stations by 1 October 2026

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) aims to complete the nationwide distribution of B50 biodiesel at all fuel stations by 1 October 2026, following its mandatory implementation starting in July. A three-month transition period will allow companies to deplete existing B40 stocks and adjust blending processes. The programme is projected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 44.7 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent and save up to Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange.

Batang Regency Deploys Water Pumps in 50 Villages to Anticipate Drought

The Food and Agriculture Office of Batang Regency, Central Java, has prepared water pumps across 50 drought-prone villages to mitigate potential crop failures. The initiative is part of broader anticipatory measures as several sub-districts are identified as vulnerable to water shortages during the dry season. Local authorities are also coordinating with the Regional Disaster Management Agency to ensure the distribution of clean water to affected residents.

Government and Parliament Agree on Indonesia International Financial Centre Bill, Plenary Approval Set for Tuesday

The Indonesian government and the House of Representatives (DPR) have formally agreed on the draft law for the Indonesia International Financial Centre (RUU PFII) at the committee level. The bill, which outlines the establishment, institutional framework, and legal infrastructure for the financial hub, received approval from all eight factions in Commission XI. It is scheduled to be ratified during a plenary session on Tuesday, 21 July 2026.

35,872 'Merah Putih' Village Cooperatives to Sell Subsidised Goods, Completion Set for August

The Indonesian government is targeting the completion of 35,872 'Koperasi Merah Putih' village cooperatives by August 2026. These cooperatives will serve as a centralised infrastructure for distributing government aid and subsidised goods. A Presidential Regulation detailing their operational framework is being expedited and is expected to be finalised within a month.

Israel to Deploy Crocodiles for Prison Security, Minister Says

Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has secured a regulatory change allowing the use of captive crocodiles to guard prisons holding Palestinian detainees. The reclassification of Nile crocodiles from wild animals to captive-bred creatures permits their deployment for security purposes, a proposal initially met with derision by prison officials.

GoPay Introduces International Money Transfer Feature to Digital Wallets

GoPay has launched a new international money transfer feature, allowing users to send funds to bank accounts and digital wallets in seven countries. The service aims to simplify cross-border transactions for Indonesians, with plans to expand to more destinations. An initial promotion waives administrative fees for first-time transfers.

Highlighting Asset Seizure Procedures, Observer Stresses Burden of Proof Lies with Investigators

An asset recovery practitioner has cautioned that asset seizures in Indonesia must strictly adhere to procedural law, particularly given the absence of a non-conviction based forfeiture act. Chuck Suryosumpeno emphasised that the burden of proof to establish a nexus between assets and criminal activity rests entirely with investigators. He warned that the success of asset recovery is measured by the ability to defend the seizure's legality in court, not merely by the speed of confiscation.

Drought hits 10 villages across six districts in Purbalingga

The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Purbalingga, Central Java, has reported that 10 villages across six districts are experiencing drought, with residents requiring clean water assistance. The agency warns the number of affected villages may rise as the dry season continues, while also highlighting that water networks damaged by flash floods in January 2026 have yet to be fully restored. Authorities are urging water conservation and increased vigilance against forest and land fires.

Indonesian lawmakers give go-ahead to financial centers plan

Indonesian lawmakers have approved key provisions of a bill to establish international financial centres, aiming to attract up to Rp 500 trillion in foreign investment. The legislation includes significant tax incentives such as 50-year tax holidays and exemptions on foreign income, with Bali considered a potential location. The initiative seeks to develop Indonesia's wealth management sector to compete with regional hubs like Singapore.

Koster Asks AHY for Rp 5 Trillion from Bali Tourism Foreign Exchange for Infrastructure

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has requested the central government allocate approximately Rp 5 trillion for infrastructure development on the island, warning that Bali risks falling behind regional competitors. Koster made the direct appeal to Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, arguing the investment would quickly pay for itself. He highlighted that Bali contributes 55 per cent of the nation's tourism foreign exchange, amounting to Rp 176 trillion.

Judge Rejects Roy Suryo's Pretrial Motion, Suspect Status in Jokowi Diploma Defamation Case Upheld

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected a pretrial motion filed by Roy Suryo, affirming the legality of his suspect status in a defamation case involving President Jokowi's diploma. The judge ruled that the motion was an attempt to delay the main trial. Meanwhile, the case file for Suryo and his co-defendant, Tifauzia Tyassuma, has already been transferred to the East Jakarta District Court.

InJourney: Six Airlines Apply to Open Routes from Bandung's Husein Airport

Six airlines have formally applied to operate jet routes from Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport as part of plans to optimise its operations. The applicants include Citilink and Super Air Jet, proposing connections to major Indonesian cities such as Kualanamu, Denpasar, and Surabaya. Airport operator InJourney Airports expects the resumption of jet services to boost economic growth, tourism, trade, and investment in West Java.

KPK Issues Two New Investigation Warrants in Banjarmasin Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has issued two new general investigation warrants to expand probes into alleged corruption at the Banjarmasin Tax Office and within the Rejang Lebong Regency Government. The warrants, which do not yet name new suspects, relate to a tax restitution bribery case and a project bribery scheme involving a non-active regent. The investigations signal a deepening of the anti-graft body's scrutiny into these regional cases.

Personal Data Security a Growing Challenge in the Cloud Computing Era

As cloud computing adoption surges, experts warn that personal data security is a critical challenge requiring a combination of robust technology, strong regulations, and user awareness. A Cyber University official emphasised that data protection is a shared responsibility between service providers and users, not just a technical issue. The university is adapting its curriculum to equip students with the necessary skills in cybersecurity and data management to meet future demands.

Village Minister says Kopdes will complement existing BUMDes business units

Minister of Villages Yandri Susanto has stated that the new Koperasi Desa Merah Putih (KDMP) will complement, rather than compete with, existing Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes). The two entities are designed to collaborate, with BUMDes focusing on village-scale assets like tourism and public services, whilst Kopdes targets daily necessities and acts as an aggregator for local produce. The government is accelerating the establishment of tens of thousands of Kopdes units nationwide.

Police investigate shooting of man who foiled motorcycle theft in East Jakarta

Police in East Jakarta are investigating the shooting of a motorcycle taxi driver who was wounded while attempting to stop a vehicle theft. The victim was shot in the thigh by one of two suspects, who then fled the scene. Authorities have processed the crime scene and are questioning witnesses to identify the perpetrators.

Motorcycle Thief Shoots Ride-Hailing Driver in Matraman, East Jakarta

A ride-hailing driver was shot in the thigh while attempting to intercept two motorcycle thieves in Matraman, East Jakarta. The victim was taken to hospital, while the suspects, who had failed to steal a motorcycle from a nearby boarding house, fled the scene. Police are currently investigating the crime scene and gathering witness statements.

Free Electric Rickshaw Rides Around Malioboro Available Tomorrow, Here's How to Join

The Yogyakarta city government is offering free electric rickshaw rides around the Malioboro area on Tuesday, 21 July 2026. The programme, open to all residents and tourists, aims to provide a unique experience of the iconic district. Rides will operate from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., starting from the Pos Gumaton area.

Police Claim Adonara Situation Conducive After Deadly Clashes

Police have stated that the security situation in East Adonara, East Flores, has returned to normal following a bloody clash between residents of two villages. The violence, triggered by a dispute over customary land and territorial boundaries, left three people dead, seven injured, and 20 houses burned. Authorities are maintaining a joint TNI-Polri presence to ensure stability while investigating the perpetrators of the killings and arson.

Central Java Governor Inaugurates Rp1.2 Trillion Dairy Farm Development

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi and Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman have launched the construction of a large-scale integrated dairy farm in Brebes, valued at Rp1.2 trillion. The project, developed by PT Global Dairi Bersama, will house 30,000 dairy cows and aims to achieve milk self-sufficiency for the province and contribute to national supply. The farm is expected to significantly boost local milk production and create an inclusive economic ecosystem in rural Central Java.

Forest and Land Fires Spread Across Six Provinces, BNPB Urges Regional Preparedness

The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has reported forest and land fires across six Indonesian provinces, burning approximately 47.7 hectares of land between 19-20 July 2026. The most extensive fires are concentrated in Kalimantan, with East Kalimantan's Samarinda city alone accounting for 35.2 hectares of scorched land. The agency has called on regional governments to tighten their readiness as the dry season intensifies.

Central Java Attracts More Investors as Rp1.2 Trillion Dairy Farm Begins Construction

Construction has commenced on a large-scale integrated dairy farm in Brebes, Central Java, with an investment value of Rp1.2 trillion. The facility, developed by PT Global Dairi Bersama, will house 30,000 dairy cows and is expected to significantly boost national milk production. Officials project the farm will help Central Java achieve self-sufficiency in milk and position the province as a major dairy industry hub.

BI Survey Signals Slower Credit Growth in 2026

Bank Indonesia's latest banking survey projects credit growth to moderate to 7.51 percent in 2026, falling short of the government's target range. Third-party fund growth is also expected to decelerate significantly compared to 2025. However, new loan disbursements are forecast to remain robust in the third quarter, driven by working capital and investment loans.

Imam Al-Ghazali: Sin Hardens the Heart, Erases the Sweetness of Faith

Persistent sin not only obstructs the path to obedience but also blackens and hardens the heart, stripping away sincerity and the sweetness of faith. Repentance is described as the primary gateway to cleansing the soul and restoring the joy of worship. The article draws on Imam Al-Ghazali's Minhajul Abidin to explain how sin burdens a servant, making it difficult to move towards virtue and ultimately leading to misery.

Gerindra Legislator Distributes Aid for 1448 H Muharram Celebration in Banyumas

Member of the House of Representatives Novita Wijayanti from the Gerindra Party has provided support for the Gebyar Muharam 1448 H event in Purwojati, Banyumas, Central Java. The assistance, channelled through her Tim Novita Center, was given to the village government and Banser to bolster community solidarity and religious activities. She stated the initiative aligns with the party chairman's directive to remain close to the people.

KPK Seals Offices of West Lombok Regent and Public Works Head in Corruption Probe

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has sealed the offices of West Lombok Regent Lalu Ahmad Zaini and the head of the local public works and housing agency. The action, which took place on Monday morning, is linked to a suspected corruption case involving government projects. The West Lombok regional secretary confirmed the sealing but stated that no official information regarding the full scope of the investigation has been released yet.

How We Treat Children Determines the Nation's Future

The article argues that Indonesia's ambition to become a developed nation by 2045 hinges on the quality of investment in its children today. It emphasises that the 2026 National Children's Day theme, focusing on love, protection, and future-building, must translate into concrete action. The piece asserts that a nation's greatness is measured not just by its economy, but by its ability to ensure every child grows up healthy, safe, and with equal opportunities.

Baznas Healthy Home Provides Free Skin Disease Education and Treatment in Pesawaran Islamic Boarding Schools

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has conducted a free health education and treatment programme for skin diseases at two Islamic boarding schools in Pesawaran Regency. The initiative, part of a broader commitment to protect the health of students, included medical check-ups and the distribution of free medication. Baznas aims to minimise the risk of disease transmission in such communal environments through consistent hygiene awareness.

After Jumbo Crossing, PKPK Acquires Shipping Company for Rp 890 Billion

PT Paragon Karya Perkasa Tbk (PKPK) has completed the acquisition of a 49% stake in shipping firm PT Deli Pratama Angkutan Laut for Rp 890 billion. The purchase from Resources Global Development Limited is expected to boost PKPK's earnings and create operational synergies, particularly with its coal mining subsidiaries. The transaction follows a recent change in PKPK's own shareholder structure.

Pramono pledges to make Jakarta a child-friendly city

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening child protection and welfare, aiming to make the capital a fully child-friendly city. Speaking at the 42nd National Children's Day commemoration, he highlighted Jakarta's consistent recognition as a Child-Friendly Province since 2022. Pramono also received the 'Governor Friend of Children' award from the Indonesian Child Protection Agency (LPAI) for his policy efforts.

Police Shoot Armed Motorcycle Thief Who Resisted Arrest, Sahroni Says Action Was Appropriate

Police in South Jakarta shot a repeat offender who resisted arrest during a raid in Lampung. The suspect, a specialist in motorcycle theft, was allegedly armed with a 9mm firearm. Deputy Chairman of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Ahmad Sahroni, stated the police action was measured and necessary given the threat posed to officers and the public.

Indonesian Marines Hone Artillery Skills in Howitzer Live-Fire Exercise

The Indonesian Marine Corps conducted a live-fire training exercise using 105 mm Howitzer cannons in Sukabumi, West Java. The drill aimed to enhance the accuracy, professionalism, and combat readiness of artillery personnel. Officials stated the exercise is part of broader efforts to maintain preparedness and uphold national sovereignty.

Roy Suryo Receives Birthday Surprise at Court, First Cake Slice Given to Former Deputy Police Chief

Telematics expert Roy Suryo received a birthday surprise from supporters at the South Jakarta District Court ahead of a pretrial ruling. The supporters sang and presented a cake, with the first slice given to former Deputy Police Chief Komjen (Purn) Oegroseno. The pretrial hearing concerns the legality of Suryo's naming as a suspect by Polda Metro Jaya.

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Says KWAP's Investment in eFishery Underwent Due Diligence

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has defended the investment made by the civil service pension fund KWAP in the Indonesian aquaculture start-up eFishery, stating it was properly scrutinised by an investment panel. The fund lost RM163.4 million due to alleged financial manipulation by eFishery's management, who are now facing legal proceedings. Anwar noted that other international investors also suffered losses and has supported an anti-corruption investigation into the matter.

Minister Prasetyo: Do Not Link Febrie's Legal Process to President Prabowo

Minister of State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has urged that the legal proceedings against former junior attorney general Febrie Adriansyah not be associated with President Prabowo Subianto. He emphasised that the entire process should be left to the prevailing legal mechanisms. The statement follows claims by Febrie's lawyer that his client was a 'pride' of the President.

Bandung City Government Optimistic Husein Sastranegara Airport Reactivation Will Boost Tourism

The Bandung city government is optimistic that the reactivation of Husein Sastranegara International Airport will significantly increase tourist arrivals. The reopening of regional and international flights is expected to provide easier access for visitors from outside Java and neighbouring ASEAN countries. Local authorities are coordinating with tourism industry stakeholders to prepare for the anticipated surge in visitors.