Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 6 July 2026

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Police Say No Premeditation in Case of Padel Employee False Imprisonment

South Jakarta Police have stated that the three-day confinement and assault of a new padel court employee was not premeditated. The four suspects, all employees, claimed they were merely interrogating the victim over the alleged theft of ten rackets. The victim was eventually released and reported the incident to the authorities.

Digital Transformation Committee Discusses Bureaucracy Digitalisation with Tony Blair

Indonesia's Digital Transformation Acceleration Committee (KPTDP), led by Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, met with former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair to discuss accelerating bureaucratic digitalisation. The collaboration aims to enhance public services through AI and digital public infrastructure, with pilot projects already underway for social protection systems. The initiative focuses on creating a more efficient, transparent, and integrated government, with plans to expand digital identity and data exchange frameworks nationwide.

Dasco Denies Amnesty Signal Behind Birthday Greeting for Nadiem

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has clarified that his social media birthday greeting to former minister Nadiem Makarim, a graft suspect, carried no hidden political meaning. Dasco attributed the post to a new social media admin's practice of celebrating public figures' birthdays. He also dismissed speculation about offering legal aid or a potential amnesty for the former education minister.

Dasco and Tokopedia Deny Mass Layoff Rumours

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad and Tokopedia's President Director have refuted social media rumours of mass layoffs at TikTok and Tokopedia, following a meeting with the Manpower Minister. The company described the workforce changes as 'internal restructuring and mobility', while the minister praised the firm for continuing to provide employment opportunities in Indonesia.

3 Kg CNG Canisters Enter Third Trial Phase, When Will They Be Available in Indonesia? Here's What Bahlil Says

The Indonesian government is conducting a third phase of trials for 3 kg compressed natural gas (CNG) canisters, with Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia targeting completion by July 2026. The distribution will mirror the existing LPG system, using agents and sub-agents, and the canisters will remain the property of the provider, allowing consumers to simply swap empty ones for full ones. Initial canisters are being imported from China as domestic mass production of the high-pressure technology is not yet available.

Home Affairs Ministry Urges Local Governments to Ensure Housing Aid Reaches the Truly Needy

The Ministry of Home Affairs has urged regional governments to improve the accuracy of their data on beneficiaries for the uninhabitable housing rehabilitation program. Secretary General Tomsi Tohir highlighted that many of the 1.7 million proposed houses were rejected for not meeting criteria, with only around 90,000 deemed eligible. He stressed that local authorities must ensure aid is directed to the genuinely impoverished, even in remote areas, to meet the government's target of rehabilitating 400,000 homes this year.

Indonesia's Geoeconomics after the Birth of ACCHK

The establishment of the ASEAN Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong (ACCHK) marks a new node in Asia's economic architecture, linking the Greater Bay Area with Southeast Asia. For Indonesia, this presents a strategic opportunity to channel investment and integrate into regional value chains, but it requires a clear industrial policy to avoid deepening dependency. The nation's downstreaming agenda must evolve beyond raw material processing to encompass a broader role in the connected production networks.

Deputy National Police Chief Inaugurates Social Science Lab and Thematic Classrooms at Police Academy

The Indonesian National Police has inaugurated a Social Science Laboratory and Thematic Classrooms at its academy in Semarang, marking a significant step in modernising police education. The new facilities aim to train cadets in evidence-based policing using big data and artificial intelligence to address complex security challenges. The initiative, supported by state-owned banks, positions Indonesia as the fifth Asian nation to establish such a social science laboratory for its police force.

Police: 'Bang Jago' of Jagakarsa's Motive Was Simply a Desire to Punch a Random Person

Jakarta police have revealed that Fredik Risya Samuel, the motorist dubbed 'Bang Jago' who assaulted a random rider in Jagakarsa, was driven by auditory hallucinations urging him to hit someone. The 37-year-old suspect, who tested positive for methamphetamine, has been arrested and detained. Authorities are also coordinating with traffic police regarding potential traffic violations committed during the incident.

Baznas Trains Santri to Become Fashion Entrepreneurs

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has launched a bootcamp to train 50 selected santri in fashion entrepreneurship, aiming to foster economic independence. The programme, which attracted 927 applicants, seeks to transform zakat recipients into donors by equipping them with business and digital marketing skills. The initiative highlights the growing potential of the fashion industry and the role of Islamic social finance in community empowerment.

Forestry Minister Launches Four Carbon Trading Projects, Vows 'No Empty Talk'

Indonesia's Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has officially launched four carbon trading projects, marking a concrete step in the nation's green economy push. The initiative includes three projects under business permits and one under a social forestry scheme, aiming to generate an estimated Rp5 trillion in value. The government emphasised that integrity and multi-stakeholder collaboration are key to positioning Indonesia as a global carbon trading hub.

Manpower Minister confirms task force working to mitigate potential layoff waves

Manpower Minister Yassierli has confirmed that the Layoff Task Force is actively working to mitigate potential job losses across various sectors. The task force, led by the Minister of State Secretary, provides early warnings and intervenes in cases requiring mediation. The government is also focusing on prevention and upskilling programmes, including national internships and vocational training, to enhance workforce competencies.

Prabowo sees off PM Wong from Merdeka Palace, concluding Leaders' Retreat

President Prabowo Subianto personally escorted Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong from Merdeka Palace, marking the end of their second Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta. The meeting resulted in 26 strategic cooperation agreements spanning the economy, investment, defence, and energy sectors. Prabowo noted that Wong was the first foreign leader to visit Indonesia after he assumed the presidency.

National Development Success Requires Collective Public Role and Awareness

A national meeting of the Indonesian Anti-Corruption Front (LAKI) has highlighted the critical need for collective public oversight to ensure the success of government programmes. The forum, attended by Gibran Nusantara volunteer leader Andi Azwan, aims to evaluate law enforcement processes and strengthen civil society's role in monitoring strategic national projects. The organisation plans to issue recommendations to law enforcement and deepen its collaboration with the Pro Gerakan Indonesia Bersatu (Progib) movement.

PKS President Applauds Presidential Regulation 111/2025, Calls LGBTQ Campaign a Systematic Threat to the Nation

The president of the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has praised the government's formal classification of LGBTQ advocacy as a non-military threat under Presidential Regulation 111/2025. Almuzzammil Yusuf stated the regulation aligns with the aspirations of the majority of Indonesians and the state ideology of Pancasila. He urged a proportional approach, distinguishing between the ideological campaign, which he deems a threat, and individuals who should be assisted humanely.

Coordinating Minister for Food: Carbon Market Must Benefit Forest Communities

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has stressed that Indonesia's developing carbon market must deliver direct economic benefits to communities living around forests. He stated that those who protect the forests should be the first to gain added value from their preservation. The government is accelerating carbon trading implementation through regulatory completion, cross-sectoral authority alignment, and market infrastructure strengthening.

PM Lawrence Wong Invites Garuda School Students for Exchange Programme to Singapore

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has extended an invitation to students of Indonesia's Sekolah Garuda to participate in a student exchange programme, aiming to strengthen people-to-people ties. The initiative, announced during a Leaders' Retreat with President Prabowo Subianto, seeks to foster mutual understanding between the younger generations of both nations. Wong also highlighted enhanced connectivity, including a new direct flight route to Pontianak, as part of broader bilateral cooperation.

Minister Reviews Construction of SMA Unggul Garuda in Southeast Sulawesi, Progress Reaches Nearly 62%

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto inspected the construction of SMA Unggul Garuda in South Konawe, Southeast Sulawesi, where progress has reached 61.933 percent. The school, part of a national initiative to improve educational access and quality, is targeted for completion by September 2026. The project aims to create a centre of educational excellence to develop competitive human resources in eastern Indonesia.

Geopolitics Enters the Digital Age

The arena of geopolitical competition has expanded beyond land, sea, air, and space to include the digital realm, where data, artificial intelligence, and communication networks have become strategic assets. This shift demands that nations, including Indonesia, integrate digital resilience into their national security strategies, focusing on protecting critical infrastructure like data centres and submarine cables. For a resource-conscious country like Indonesia, the priority should be on strengthening cyber security, human resources, and institutional governance rather than simply acquiring the most advanced technology.

Layered Oversight of PFII Urged to Prevent Money Laundering Risks

Legal experts are urging the Indonesian government and parliament to embed robust, multi-layered oversight into the draft law for the proposed International Financial Centre (PFII). The proposed structure would see the PFII supervised by a council and an authority, which would in turn be monitored by existing bodies like Bank Indonesia, the Financial Services Authority (OJK), and PPATK. This framework aims to mitigate risks including money laundering, regulatory overlap, and capital flow volatility from the outset.

PTPN III reveals strategy to support national food and energy self-sufficiency

State-owned plantation holding PTPN III has outlined a three-pronged strategy to support the government's food and energy self-sufficiency targets, focusing on intensification, extensification, and downstream industry development. The plan includes boosting palm oil and sugarcane yields, expanding plantation areas by hundreds of thousands of hectares, and building new sugar and bioethanol factories. The company estimates it will require Rp140 trillion in investment over the next five years to realise these ambitions.

MBG Budget to Decline Next Year, Observers Urge Programme Improvements

The government's plan to reduce the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme budget to Rp174 trillion in 2027 has prompted calls for better governance. An economist argues that the focus should shift from budget size to improving targeting, food quality, and distribution systems. The programme's implementation is under scrutiny to ensure it reaches those most in need.

Minister Iftitah Affirms Transmigration Areas Must Become Hubs for Investment, Downstreaming, and New Economic Centres

The Indonesian government is repositioning transmigration areas as new economic growth centres designed to attract investment and drive industrial downstreaming, moving beyond their traditional role as agricultural settlements. Minister of Transmigration M. Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara highlighted that these areas possess diverse strategic resources, including oil, gas, coal, and rare earth elements, which should be developed according to regional strengths. The policy shift aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to create quality employment and build industrial ecosystems across the archipelago.

IASC Secures Rp 674 Billion from Online Scams

Indonesia's Anti-Scam Centre (IASC) has frozen 557,751 bank accounts and secured Rp 674.1 billion in funds linked to online fraud between November 2024 and June 2026. Despite this effort, the total reported losses from online scams reached Rp 9.3 trillion, with the low recovery rate attributed to victims' delays in reporting incidents. Authorities are developing a faster reporting system to improve the chances of recovering stolen funds.

Under Danantara, PNM Creates Jobs for Tens of Thousands of High School Graduates

State-owned enterprise PNM is tackling youth unemployment by creating tens of thousands of jobs for high school and vocational school graduates through its ultra-micro financing and mentoring programmes. The initiative, part of the broader Danantara ecosystem, has absorbed over 70,000 workers, predominantly women, who serve as field mentors while also gaining skills and access to further education. PNM's President Director emphasised that the programme's empowerment model generates a multiplier effect, fostering both independent entrepreneurs and community-level prosperity.

What Is Particulate Pollution? Understanding Its Sources and Dangerous Impacts

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued an educational advisory on particulate matter (PM), a pervasive air pollutant. The agency highlights PM2.5 as the most hazardous type due to its ability to penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream. The advisory details how daily human activities and atmospheric conditions influence the fluctuating concentration of these particles.

Jakarta DPRD to Discuss Jaklingko Card Tapping Fraud with BUMD

The Jakarta Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) plans to hold a meeting with regional-owned enterprises (BUMD) to address fraudulent card tapping practices by some Mikrotrans or Jaklingko drivers. The discussion will also consider a proposal to introduce a fare for the currently free service, with suggestions to start at Rp1,000 to prevent 'culture shock' and encourage users to value public transport more.

Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Spends 12 Days Under Hospital Detention

Former Indonesian Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas has been receiving medical treatment in hospital for 12 days following digestive surgery, according to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). The KPK is monitoring his recovery closely as his presence is required to conclude the investigation into the alleged hajj quota corruption case. The case involves four suspects and an estimated state loss of Rp 622 billion.

El Nino Phenomenon Strengthens, WMO Urges Countries to Boost Preparedness

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has warned that the developing El Nino phenomenon is expected to strengthen into a strong category, potentially triggering extreme weather worldwide. The agency has called on nations to enhance their early warning systems to mitigate risks to agriculture and public health. Impacts are already being felt, with Peru declaring a state of emergency across 800 districts due to threats of heavy rain and landslides.

Indosat Retains CEO Vikram Sinha, Targets Doubling EBITDA

Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison has extended the tenure of President Director and CEO Vikram Sinha for another five years, tasking him with doubling the company's EBITDA and continuing its AI-driven transformation. The decision follows the company's improved financial performance, with net profit rising 12.2% year-on-year to Rp5.51 trillion in 2025. The telco is also expanding beyond connectivity into sovereign AI, cloud, and cybersecurity, while recently completing a Rp11.71 trillion divestment of its majority stake in fibre optic unit IFT.

Boni Hargens: Public Trust in the National Police Is a Priceless State Asset

Political analyst Boni Hargens has criticised a global survey that gave the Indonesian National Police a high public distrust score, citing serious methodological weaknesses. He argued that the subjective perception-based index lacks transparency in sampling and verification, making it an unreliable scientific reference. Hargens also cautioned that such data could be exploited in information warfare, urging the public and policymakers to exercise critical data literacy.

Agrinas Palma to Recruit Over 20,000 Workers to Manage Palm Oil Assets

State-owned plantation company PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara plans to hire more than 20,000 workers to manage palm oil assets transferred by the government. The recruitment drive, which includes 1,844 management staff, 9,500 foremen, and 11,000 harvesters, aims to boost productivity and is expected to be completed by August 2026. The company is prioritising local workers for operational roles as it targets a fresh fruit bunch production of 5 million tonnes by year-end.

Journalistic Code of Ethics: The Last Bastion of Press Credibility in the Information Age

A recent study highlights the critical role of the Journalistic Code of Ethics in maintaining public trust amidst the challenges of the digital era. The research identifies commercial pressures, the attention economy, and the blurring lines between professional journalists and content creators as major threats to ethical standards. It concludes that strengthening institutional oversight and public digital literacy is essential to preserving press credibility.

Polda Metro Jaya Confirms Object on Drone in Depok Was Not Explosive

Jakarta Metropolitan Police have confirmed that a suspicious object attached to a drone in Depok, West Java, was a replica grenade and not an active explosive. The drone landed at the residence of lawyer Novianus Martin Bau, who is currently handling a land dispute case. Police are continuing to investigate the incident and the origins of the drone, which carried a threatening message.

Government targets end to open dumping practices by 2028

The Indonesian government aims to completely halt open dumping of waste by 2028, with a 50 per cent reduction targeted for 2027. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan announced plans for a waste-to-energy incinerator plant in Bali and highlighted recent regulatory reforms that have spurred waste management initiatives in around 70 cities. The minister linked waste management and climate change to national food security, noting the need for innovative financing beyond the state budget.

Plantation Holding PTPN III Profit Leaps 81% to Rp6.39 Trillion in 2025

State-owned plantation holding company PT Perkebunan Nusantara III (PTPN III) reported a consolidated profit of Rp6.39 trillion for 2025, an 81.3% surge from the previous year. The strong performance was primarily driven by higher crude palm oil (CPO) prices and improved productivity across its main commodities. Total sales reached Rp59.32 trillion, with palm oil contributing over 75% of revenue.

Prabowo and Wong Agree Malacca Strait to Remain Free Passage

President Prabowo Subianto and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong have jointly committed to maintaining the Malacca Strait as a free international shipping lane. The agreement, reached during a bilateral meeting in Jakarta, underscores the strategic importance of the strait, particularly in light of recent disruptions to global maritime routes. Both nations pledged to coordinate with Malaysia and Thailand to ensure the waterway remains open, secure, and compliant with UNCLOS 1982.

RIMPAC 2026: Unmanned Systems Take Centre Stage in Maritime War Games

The Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC) 2026 is highlighting the critical role of unmanned systems in modern naval warfare, according to a senior US commander. The drills, involving 25,000 personnel from 31 nations including Indonesia, are focusing on integrating drones to create more complex challenges for adversaries. Indonesian Marines are also contributing by sharing their jungle survival expertise with international forces.

Prabowo: Every Dispute Must Be Resolved Peacefully Through Diplomacy

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that all disputes, both within and beyond the ASEAN region, should be settled peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy. Speaking after a meeting with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, he highlighted the importance of preparing the bilateral partnership for future challenges. The two leaders also discussed global and regional issues ahead of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Singapore.

DTKJ Proposes Transjakarta Fare of Rp5,000, End of Free Mikrotrans

The Jakarta Transportation Council (DTKJ) has proposed a new integrated flat fare of Rp5,000 for Transjakarta services within the city and a Rp2,000 charge for the previously free Mikrotrans feeder service. The proposal aims to simplify costs for passengers switching between BRT and non-BRT routes while ensuring more accurate passenger data and preventing potential manipulation. The council also suggested a Rp10,000 fare for the TransJabodetabek service, though it stressed the plans are still under review and require improvements in service quality.

Prabowo to PM Wong: RI-Singapore Relations Must Endure

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the need for a lasting partnership between Indonesia and Singapore as the two nations approach 60 years of diplomatic ties. Speaking alongside Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in Jakarta, Prabowo highlighted the mutual benefits of cooperation and its contribution to regional stability. The leaders also discussed global issues, reaffirming ASEAN's commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful diplomacy.

Building Villages Without Neglecting Human Dignity

The Kopdes Merah Putih programme was intended to boost rural economies, but the deaths of five prospective managers during a military-style training course have raised serious ethical questions. This article argues that while discipline is important, the state must prioritise the protection of life and intellect, as outlined in the principles of maqashid shariah. It calls for a total evaluation of the training approach, suggesting that cooperative managers require skills in negotiation and empowerment rather than military command.

IndexMundi Releases Police Corruption Index, Analyst Criticises Sample Transparency and Potential Information Warfare

A senior political analyst has criticised the methodology behind an IndexMundi Global Surveys report that gave the Indonesian National Police a high public distrust score of 7.56 on its Police Corruption Perceptions Index. Boni Hargens argued the survey lacks scientific validity due to unclear sampling and verification methods, warning such subjective data can be weaponised in the contemporary landscape of information warfare. He urged the public not to use the index as a sole reference, pointing to the positive institutional transformation under current police leadership.

Pelindo Educates 555 Children on Port Roles and Safety

State-owned port operator Pelindo Terminal Petikemas (TPK) hosted an educational event for 555 students in Surabaya, introducing them to port operations, emergency preparedness, and the dangers of narcotics. The initiative, part of the company's community engagement, involved collaboration with the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) and the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD). The programme aims to build early awareness of the strategic importance of ports and promote safety among the younger generation.

After Two Decades, Hamas Dissolves Governing Body in Gaza

Hamas has announced the dissolution of its administrative committee that has governed the Gaza Strip for nearly two decades, paving the way for a Palestinian technocratic body to assume civil administration. The move marks a significant political shift for the group, which has repeatedly expressed willingness to step back from day-to-day governance since the October ceasefire with Israel. The transition will facilitate the National Committee for Gaza Administration (NCAG), established under a US-brokered peace board, to take over administrative responsibilities.

Mimika MBG Task Force Invites BGN to Discuss Programme Implementation in 3T Regions

The Mimika Regency Free Nutritious Meal Task Force plans to invite the National Nutrition Agency to discuss rolling out the programme in disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost (3T) areas. Implementation in these remote regions has been delayed pending thorough mapping and feasibility studies. Currently, the programme is only active in 18 service units within the urban area of Timika.

Hoax! NU and Muhammadiyah Issue Fatwa to Stop Paying Taxes

A social media post falsely claims that Indonesia's two largest Islamic organisations, Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah, have issued a fatwa instructing their members to stop paying taxes. Official sources confirm no such edict exists, with NU's recent national conference explicitly stating that paying taxes under fair conditions is a form of obedience to the government. The claim has been rated as a hoax.

Police Reveal Pedal Padel Employee Was Held Captive for 3 Days in Lift and Warehouse

South Jakarta police have disclosed that an employee of Pedal Padel, accused of stealing a racket, was unlawfully confined in a lift and a warehouse for three days. The initial intention was merely to interrogate the worker, but the process dragged on as the victim was deemed to be providing convoluted statements. Authorities have since processed the crime scene and seized evidence, including blood samples and the tools used in the confinement.

8 Students Pitch Community Service Ideas Before Nicholas Saputra and Cinta Laura

Eight university teams competed in the final of the Genera-Z Berbakti programme, debating their community service proposals for Bakti BCA's tourism village partners. The head-to-head debate round saw students defending their social innovation ideas before a panel including actors Nicholas Saputra and Cinta Laura Kiehl, and social entrepreneur Tri Mumpuni. Four winning teams will implement their projects in designated tourism villages across Indonesia.

Hoax! Prabowo dismisses Bahlil and PLN CEO in June 2026

A Facebook post falsely claimed that President Prabowo Subianto dismissed Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia and the CEO of state electricity firm PLN. Official sources confirm the photograph actually depicts a limited cabinet meeting discussing energy security and tourism development. The claim has been rated as a hoax.

Staying Up Late: The Hidden Curriculum on Campus

A survey of science and technology students reveals that chronic sleep deprivation, driven by uncoordinated academic deadlines and heavy workloads, has become a normalised part of university life. The article argues that the issue is not poor individual time management but a systemic failure in how curricula and assessments are designed. It calls for a more integrated and humane approach to education that maintains high standards without compromising student health.

Analyst Projects IHSG in 7,000-8,000 Range for Second Half of 2026

Capital market analyst Elandry Pratama forecasts the Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) will trade between 7,000 and 8,000 in the second half of 2026, supported by stable global conditions and foreign capital flows. The outlook is underpinned by expectations of global interest rate cuts, domestic inflation stability, and Indonesia's economic growth, though volatility is expected to persist. The rupiah is projected to trade in a range of 16,800 to 17,500 per US dollar through the end of 2026.

Singhasari SEZ Partners with Prestigious Indian Business School

The Indonesian government has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) to collaborate on educational programmes within the Singhasari Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in East Java. The partnership aims to bolster the zone's focus on digital economy and human capital development, complementing existing ties with institutions like King's College London. Officials emphasised a non-competing environment where academic programmes are designed to complement rather than duplicate each other.

Conducive investment climate key to PFII attracting global funds, says economist

An economist has stated that the success of Indonesia's International Financial Centre (PFII) in attracting global investment hinges on creating a conducive business environment and deepening domestic financial markets. While the potential for funds is significant, experts warn that tax incentives alone are insufficient without regulatory certainty, infrastructure, and professional talent. The government is preparing various facilities, including tax and immigration ease, as the House targets passing the PFII Bill by July 2026.

KLH/BPLH Team Sharpens Video-Graphic Content Production Skills in The Classroom Batch 2

The Ministry of Environment and the Environmental Control Agency (KLH/BPLH) has partnered with detikcom to enhance its staff's digital communication capabilities through a training programme called The Classroom Batch 2. The three-day workshop in Bogor focused on equipping 34 participants with skills in video production, social media management, and content distribution strategies. The initiative aims to shift the institution's communication approach from merely conveying information to effectively capturing public attention and fostering engagement.

Hoax! Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs announces tax on influencer income

A video circulating on social media falsely claims that Minister Meutya Hafid announced new taxes on social media platforms and influencer income. The footage was actually taken from a press conference where the minister detailed the percentage breakdown of online gambling comment spam across various platforms. The claim has been rated as a hoax.

Haze blankets Lombok, NTB, reducing visibility to one kilometre

A haze phenomenon is currently covering Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, reducing visibility to as low as one kilometre during the early morning. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) attributes the condition to the dry season, where low atmospheric humidity allows dust and dry particles to remain suspended in the air. Authorities have warned of a heightened risk of forest and land fires as the region enters the peak of the dry season, exacerbated by a moderate El Niño.

Indonesia and Singapore Affirm ASEAN's Commitment to Resolving Disputes Through Dialogue

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong have jointly emphasised ASEAN's stance on resolving disputes peacefully through dialogue and diplomacy, applicable not only in the region but globally. The leaders made the statement during their annual retreat in Jakarta, where they also discussed bilateral cooperation and the importance of maintaining open access in the Strait of Malacca. The meeting resulted in 26 concrete agreements, including 18 government-to-government and eight business-to-business deals.

Thick Smoke from Jatiwaringin Landfill Persists, Dozens of Residents Remain in Evacuation Shelters

A fire at the Jatiwaringin Final Processing Site (TPA) in Tangerang Regency continues to burn into its seventh day, with thick smoke forcing 28 residents to remain in emergency shelters. The village head of Tanjakan Mekar confirmed that no cases of acute respiratory infection have been reported so far. Authorities are continuing to monitor the health of affected residents and ensure they receive necessary care.

BRIN Strengthens Scientific Support to Maximise Forestry Law Enforcement

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is bolstering scientific backing for forestry law enforcement through its participation in the Leverage 2026 project. The initiative aims to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable ecosystem management via multi-sector collaboration. BRIN emphasised that effective conservation policy must be underpinned by robust research data and scientific capacity.

Indonesia and Singapore Agree on 26 Strategic Cooperation Deals

President Prabowo Subianto hosted Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong for the annual Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta, resulting in the signing of 26 strategic agreements. The pacts span key sectors including the economy, energy, defence, security, and human resource development. The meeting underscored both nations' commitment to strengthening their mutually beneficial partnership amid regional dynamics.

Three Special Economic Zones Apply for Land Expansion

Three Indonesian Special Economic Zones (KEK) have requested to double their land area due to overwhelming investor demand. The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs reports that existing plots in KEK Kendal, Gresik, and Galang Batang are fully occupied. The government is accelerating licensing to accommodate the queue of new investments, which have already contributed Rp 353.3 trillion in realised investment across all zones.

Indonesia expands carbon trading through social forestry

Indonesia is broadening its carbon trading ecosystem to include social forestry schemes and conservation areas, moving beyond traditional concession holders. Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni announced the initiative alongside the inauguration of the Indonesian Forestry Carbon Center, aiming to create inclusive economic opportunities for local communities. The government is also preparing to launch a Carbon Unit Registration System in July 2026 and has partnered with the International Emissions Trading Association to position Indonesia as a global carbon trading hub.

Pre-trial Motion of Hajj Corruption Suspect Asrul Azis Rejected, KPK to Proceed with Investigation

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected the pre-trial motion filed by Asrul Azis Taba, a suspect in the hajj quota corruption case. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) confirmed it will continue its investigation, stating the court's decision affirms that the legal process has followed due process. The judge also dismissed arguments regarding the suspect's advanced age as grounds to prevent his detention.

Minister of Women's Empowerment: Make Religious Values the Foundation of Parenting in the Family

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Arifah Fauzi has called for religious values and noble character to be the cornerstone of parenting, warning that family care patterns are weakening. She highlighted the launch of the 'Berlian' campaign to strengthen the National Movement for Safe and Comfortable Spaces for Children. The initiative complements existing regulations on safe school environments and online child protection.

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Affirms Government's Commitment to Stabilise Chicken and Egg Prices

Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono has affirmed the government's commitment to maintaining a balance in chicken and egg prices to ensure fair profits for farmers while keeping the commodities affordable for consumers. The statement was made during a poultry industry forum in Jayapura, where a new floor price for live birds and eggs was agreed upon, effective 15 July 2026. The government also highlighted the potential of the free nutritious meal programme to boost demand and is working to expand export markets given the nation's production surplus.

Jakarta Legislator Redeems Orphan's Diploma to Enable Job Applications

A Jakarta councillor has personally covered the costs to release a diploma withheld from an orphaned student due to unpaid school fees. The intervention allows the student to use the certificate to apply for jobs and improve their family's economic situation. The legislator has also called for systemic policy changes to prevent the withholding of academic documents from students facing financial hardship.

Komnas HAM Records 3,003 Complaints, Pushes for Human Rights-Based Policy Evaluation

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) received 3,003 complaints in 2025, with welfare, justice, and agrarian conflicts dominating the reports. The commission views these findings as a basis to advocate for stronger governance and public policies oriented towards human rights protection. Government and parliamentary officials acknowledged the report as a crucial evaluation tool for improving state accountability and legislation.

'Bang Jago' of Jagakarsa Tests Positive for Methamphetamine, Immediately Detained by Police

A man known as 'Bang Jago' who was arrested for assaulting a motorcyclist in South Jakarta has tested positive for methamphetamine use. Police have detained Fredik Risya Samuel and are investigating the source of the drugs. The suspect faces charges of assault and drug-related offences.

Defending Free Speech, Khariq Anhar Rejects Criminalisation of Criticism Through Memes

Defendant Khariq Anhar has warned that his legal case poses a serious threat to freedom of expression on social media, arguing it concerns the rights of millions of users to voice criticism through satire. During a hearing at the Jakarta District Court, content creator Ferry Irwandi testified that the student's critical content remained within the bounds of creativity and decency. The defence team maintains the case represents the criminalisation of legitimate digital expression under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law.

SPMB 2026 Evaluation: Rerie Calls for Urgent System Overhaul and Integrity Culture

The 2026 New Student Admission System (SPMB) has been marred by hundreds of fraud allegations, prompting MPR Deputy Speaker Lestari Moerdijat to demand fundamental reforms. She argues that regulatory oversight alone is insufficient and insists on building a culture of integrity to break the annual cycle of cheating. The call follows 301 public complaints, with the zoning pathway being the most vulnerable to manipulation.

Initial Capital for PFII Management Body to Come from Danantara and State Assets

The Indonesian government and parliament are drafting a bill for the International Financial Centre (PFII), which includes provisions for its managing body's initial capital. A legal expert has stated that the initial funding could be sourced from the Danantara Investment Management Agency, state-owned enterprises, or cash. The draft law specifies that the capital may also include state assets and other legal assets.

Jakarta Administrative Court Annuls Minister's Staff Transfer Decree

The Jakarta State Administrative Court (PTUN) has fully granted a lawsuit filed by a Ministry of Human Rights employee, Ernie Nurheyanti M. Toelle, against Minister Natalius Pigai. The court declared the ministerial decree that transferred her from a managerial role to a functional position null and void. The ruling also orders the minister to restore her original position and pay the court costs.

Sumedang Government Confirms People's School Ready for Use in September

The Sumedang Regency Government has confirmed that the Sekolah Rakyat (People's School) in Ujungjaya will be operational by September 2026, with construction progress currently at 87 percent. The facility, built on seven hectares with a central government budget of Rp290 billion, is designed to provide quality education and boarding for up to 1,000 students from underprivileged families. The initiative aims to ensure equitable access to education for children from poor and extremely poor households in the region.

Superbank and OVO Expand Collaboration, Offer Financing Access in OVO App

Superbank and OVO have deepened their partnership by integrating Superbank's digital loan product, Pinjaman Atur Sendiri (PAS), directly into the OVO application. This move allows OVO users to access unsecured loans with flexible terms, building on the success of their previous savings product collaboration. The integration reflects a broader strategy to embed formal financial services within daily-use digital platforms, contributing to a 59% annual growth in Superbank's credit disbursement.

Antam's Strategy to Strengthen Contribution and Boost Performance

State-owned mining company PT Antam (Persero) Tbk reported a 43% increase in its contribution to the state, reaching Rp 4.8 trillion in 2024. The company's record performance was driven by strong gold sales and a significant expansion of its nickel production. Antam is also advancing its role in the national electric vehicle battery ecosystem through a strategic partnership to develop integrated downstream nickel processing.

Fast Fashion Through an Environmental Lens

The rapid growth of fast fashion is driving deforestation and water pollution, with Indonesia's textile industry contributing significantly to national waste. A shift towards sustainable practices is urgently needed, requiring conscious consumer choices and government intervention. Institutions like Indonesia's Environmental Fund Management Agency (BPDLH) are seen as key to funding recycling projects and guiding the industry towards greener production.

Woman in Surabaya Goes Viral for Demolishing Official Residence with Excavator

A woman in Surabaya, Murnita Triwidyaning, is standing trial for using an excavator to demolish a state-owned official residence belonging to the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The defendant claimed she had purchased the property, despite it being a registered state asset under the Ministry of Finance. The incident caused an estimated state loss of Rp537.3 million.

Prabowo calls economy cornerstone of Indonesia-Singapore ties

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that economic cooperation remains the principal pillar of Indonesia-Singapore relations, highlighting joint efforts in cross-border electricity, sustainable trade, and food supply chains. The annual Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta produced 26 deliverables, including 18 intergovernmental agreements and eight business-to-business deals. Prabowo described the bilateral bond as special, grounded in shared interests in regional stability and prosperity.

OJK Chief: Forestry Minister's Swift Action Opens Global Investment Opportunities via Carbon Trading

OJK Chief Commissioner Friderica Widyasari Dewi praised Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni for the rapid implementation of forestry carbon trading. The launch of the voluntary carbon market scheme is seen as a historic moment of inter-agency synergy, opening sustainable investment opportunities. The OJK supports strengthening the green financing ecosystem to ensure the carbon market develops with credibility, transparency, and integrity.

Sahroni urges police to take firm action against 'thuggish' motorist in Jagakarsa

House of Representatives Commission III Deputy Chairman Ahmad Sahroni has called for strict legal action against a motorcyclist who assaulted another driver in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta. Sahroni warned that leniency could foster a culture of thuggery and lead to more extreme criminal acts. Police have since arrested the 37-year-old suspect, identified as FRS, following the viral incident.

Rupiah Weakens Following Fitch Report on Indonesia's Economic Governance

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated to Rp17,995 per US dollar on Monday, influenced by a Fitch Ratings report highlighting fragile macroeconomic conditions. The report warned that prolonged pressure could increase government debt and borrowing costs, while a separate trade deficit in May ended a 72-month surplus streak. Global geopolitical tensions also contributed to the currency's decline.

UI Strengthens Endowment Fund Through Collaboration with Triputra Group

Universitas Indonesia (UI) has secured a Rp 50 billion commitment from Triputra Group to bolster its Endowment Fund (Dana Abadi UI). The partnership aims to enhance the quality of education, research, innovation, and scholarship access. UI Rector Prof. Heri Hermansyah stated that this collaboration represents a significant long-term investment in advancing higher education and hopes it will encourage further private sector contributions.

Security Guard and Staff Among 14 New Suspects in Little Aresha Daycare Abuse Case, Charged with Omission

Police in Yogyakarta have named 14 additional suspects in the Little Aresha daycare abuse case, including a security guard and administrative staff. The new suspects, comprising 10 caregivers, two admin staff, a security guard, and a domestic worker, are being charged under Indonesia's Child Protection Law for allegedly allowing the abuse to occur. Authorities stated that those who knew of the criminal acts but failed to report them are equally liable under the law's provisions against omission.

Minister says TikTok-Tokopedia undertaking internal restructuring, not layoffs

Indonesia's Manpower Minister Yassierli has clarified that TikTok-Tokopedia Group is not conducting layoffs but rather an internal restructuring process described as 'talent mobility'. The company is reportedly opening around 100 new positions, while a House Deputy Speaker noted that approximately 200 employees have accepted compensation packages as part of the reorganisation.

Cirebon Declares Drought Emergency Status

The Cirebon Regency Government has declared a drought emergency from 1 July to 30 September 2026 to mitigate water crises, forest fires, and agricultural damage. The status enables faster mobilisation of resources, including water tankers and emergency command posts, across 14 identified at-risk districts. Authorities are also continuing long-term mitigation efforts such as borehole construction and public education campaigns.

Police Academy Strengthens Scientific Policing with New Laboratory

The Indonesian Police Academy (Akpol) has inaugurated a new Social Science Laboratory and Thematic Classrooms to enhance scientific policing capabilities. The facility, opened by Deputy Chief of Police Commissioner General Dedi Prasetyo, will utilise artificial intelligence, big data analysis, and simulation-based learning. The initiative aims to equip cadets with data-driven decision-making skills for evidence-based policing.

Agrinas Palma Establishes Partnership for 130,000 Hectares of Smallholder Oil Palm Plantations

State-owned enterprise PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara is developing a partnership scheme for over 130,000 hectares of smallholder oil palm plantations located within forest areas. The land was handed over to the company by the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force, and the scheme aims to allow local communities to continue benefiting economically as partners in plantation maintenance and harvesting. The company is also targeting the development of at least 250,000 hectares of plasma plantations, starting with a 1,500-hectare pilot project in North Sumatra.

Indonesia Yet to Export Electricity to Singapore, Here's Why According to Bahlil

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has stated that electricity exports to Singapore are still under negotiation, primarily due to disagreements over pricing. The Indonesian government is seeking a mutually beneficial deal, while President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Danantara to lead the cross-border trade implementation. Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong expressed confidence that the project would benefit both nations and support regional energy security.

Indonesia and Singapore Forge 26 Strategic Agreements at Leaders' Retreat

Indonesia and Singapore have solidified their bilateral partnership with 26 concrete agreements covering government-to-government and business-to-business collaborations. The deals, announced during a Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta, span critical sectors including green energy, supply chain resilience, and digital economy. President Prabowo Subianto emphasised the importance of people-to-people connectivity and youth empowerment as the foundation for long-term trust.

DPR Deputy Speaker Dasco: Around 200 Tokopedia Employees Opt for Compensation, Not Layoffs

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, clarified that approximately 200 Tokopedia employees have voluntarily accepted a compensation package amid an organisational restructuring, rather than being laid off. The clarification follows a meeting between parliament and TikTok-Tokopedia representatives to address public concerns over reported mass job cuts. Tokopedia's President Director, Stephanie Susilo, confirmed there are no layoffs, describing the process as workforce realignment and internal mobility within the TikTok Group.

Aceh Timur BPBD Deploys Personnel to Traditional Oil Well Fire

The Aceh Timur Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has stationed personnel at the site of a fire at a traditionally managed oil well in Darul Ihsan district. The blaze, which began on Sunday, remains unextinguished due to an active oil gush, with efforts focused on preventing the fire from spreading to nearby residential land. Local authorities are prioritising public safety and coordinating with security forces to manage the emergency.

Road Collapses and House Walls Crack in Pulogadung, City Government Steps In

A section of Jalan Cinta in Pulogadung, East Jakarta, has collapsed, causing significant cracks in the road and nearby houses along the Sunter River bank. East Jakarta Mayor Munjirin has coordinated with the Water Resources Agency to address the subsidence, with temporary repairs using wooden piles already underway. The cause of the land subsidence, suspected to be either soil movement or riverbank erosion, remains under investigation.

Filantra Secures UN ECOSOC Special Consultative Status, Bolstering Indonesia's Global Contribution

Indonesian foundation Yayasan Filantra has been granted Special Consultative Status by the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), effective June 2026. This recognition allows the organisation to officially participate in UN forums, submit written statements, and collaborate on sustainable development goals. The status marks a significant step in amplifying Indonesia's perspective and best practices on the global stage.

PM Wong Consults Indonesia on Singapore's ASEAN Chairmanship

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has announced plans to consult closely with Indonesia in formulating the agenda for Singapore's upcoming ASEAN chairmanship next year. The move aims to align strategic visions and reinforce ASEAN centrality ahead of the leadership transition. The leaders also discussed regional security, economic investments, and defence cooperation.

Education Minister reveals discussion with National Nutrition Agency on improving free meals programme

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has disclosed that he shared feedback with the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) regarding the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The discussion focused on improving targeting, distribution methods, and implementation in remote regions. No final decisions have been made, as any changes await the President's approval.

IAEA prioritises preventing nuclear accident amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has stated it will only assign blame for attacks on the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant if it possesses incontrovertible evidence. Director General Rafael Grossi emphasised that the agency's primary objective is to prevent a nuclear accident, acknowledging the difficulty of identifying perpetrators in modern drone warfare. Grossi noted that the IAEA's role as an independent body requires a high degree of caution and complete proof before making any attribution.

Child Protection Agency Guarantees Medical Costs for Two Santri Burn Victims in Central Lombok

The Mataram Child Protection Agency (LPA) has stepped in to cover the medical expenses of two santri injured in a boarding school fire in Central Lombok, after their BPJS health insurance coverage was suspended. The victims face outstanding hospital bills of nearly Rp 20 million, but the LPA has prioritised their recovery while urging police to expedite the legal process. Investigators currently suspect the case may involve negligence rather than a deliberate criminal act.

Government Forms 5 New Task Forces, Accelerates Coretax-Civil Servant Data Integration

The Indonesian government has established five new inter-agency task forces to accelerate digital governance, focusing on integrating the national Coretax system with civil servant, military, and police personnel data. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform, aims to enhance tax compliance and streamline public services. The Food and Drug Monitoring Agency has been selected as the pilot project for implementing the Taxpayer Status Confirmation mechanism in public licensing.

IHSG Strengthens as Investors Await Fed Minutes and Domestic Forex Reserves

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed higher on Monday, buoyed by investor anticipation of the US Federal Reserve's meeting minutes and Indonesia's upcoming foreign exchange reserves data. Market participants are seeking clues on the future direction of US interest rates while also assessing the nation's external resilience. The index rose 0.69% to 5,916.07, with the energy and technology sectors leading the gains.

Ministry of Religious Affairs to Prepare Educational Materials to Prevent Spread of LGBTQ in Religious Education

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is planning to introduce educational materials aimed at preventing the spread of LGBTQ culture within religious education. The initiative, which will be implemented across madrasas, Islamic boarding schools, and religious universities, is framed as a structured institutional response to a perceived non-military threat to national defence. The ministry also intends to utilise religious sermons and community forums to disseminate the message.

Formasi says standardised packaging rule contradicts efforts to eradicate illegal cigarettes

The Indonesian Cigarette Industry Society Forum (Formasi) has warned that proposed standardised cigarette packaging rules could fuel the illegal cigarette trade. The group argues the draft ministerial regulation goes beyond the mandate of focusing on health warnings. Meanwhile, INDEF estimates the policy could reduce state revenue by Rp27.7 trillion annually and contract economic growth.

OJK: SLIK has become vital infrastructure for national credit ecosystem

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has declared the Financial Information Service System (SLIK) a vital infrastructure for the national credit ecosystem, processing an average of 31 million debtor inquiries monthly. The newly launched optimisation focuses on accelerating data updates for settled loans and refining the scope of debtor information displayed. These enhancements aim to improve risk management for financial institutions, expand access to financing for MSMEs, and support government housing programmes.

Minister Raja Juli Antoni Appreciates KPK, Affirms Forestry Governance Reform as Priority

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has expressed strong support for the Corruption Eradication Commission's (KPK) efforts to tackle corruption in the forestry sector. He emphasised that improving governance is a top priority, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's directive for clean management. The Minister also clarified his non-involvement in a regional bribery case, stating he had returned an envelope from a local official without knowing its contents.

Deal! Prabowo and PM Lawrence Wong Seal 26 Cooperation Agreements, Here's the List

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong concluded their annual Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta with 26 concrete agreements spanning government-to-government and business-to-business partnerships. Key outcomes include a roadmap for cross-border green electricity trade involving Indonesia's Danantara and Singaporean firms, alongside expanded cooperation in digital economy, food security, and defence. Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the Strait of Malacca open and secure for all international navigation.

Pedal Padel Employee Interrogated Over Racket Theft Before False Imprisonment

South Jakarta police have revealed that the false imprisonment of a Pedal Padel employee accused of stealing rackets began as an unplanned interrogation. The victim was allegedly detained because the perpetrators felt his explanations were convoluted. Police are still investigating whether the management ordered the action, though initial findings suggest it was the initiative of the four suspects.

Iran Closes Airspace During Khamenei's Funeral Procession

Iran has completely closed Tehran's airspace on Monday as part of the funeral procession for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, temporarily halting flights at the capital's two main airports. The shutdown is part of a multi-day series of ceremonies across Iran and Iraq, culminating in his burial in Mashhad on 9 July. Khamenei died in a combined US-Israeli strike on 28 February, an event that triggered weeks of war and heightened regional tensions.

DTKJ Proposes Ending Free Mikrotrans in Jakarta, Suggests Rp2,000 Fare

The Jakarta Transportation Council (DTKJ) has proposed introducing a Rp2,000 fare for the previously free Mikrotrans feeder service to improve passenger data accuracy and prevent potential manipulation. Council chair Sugihardjo argued that the current free system may incentivise operators to falsify ridership figures to meet contractual targets. The proposal remains under review and has not yet been adopted as official policy by the Jakarta provincial government.

IDX Evaluates FCA, Revises 3 Criteria for Special Monitoring Board Stocks

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is proposing significant changes to the full periodic call auction (FCA) mechanism, including the removal of three criteria that place stocks on the Special Monitoring Board. The proposed revisions involve scrapping minimum free float requirements, low liquidity thresholds, and automatic placement due to trading suspensions. The exchange is also adjusting auto-rejection limits (ARA) into a more granular three-tier system based on share price ranges.

Not Just Restaurants, the Phenomenon of Companies Skimping on Staff Spreads to Furniture Shops

Indonesia's sluggish economy is forcing businesses beyond fast-food outlets to drastically cut staffing levels, with furniture stores now seeing single employees juggling multiple roles. Traders report sales have halved amid weak consumer demand and fierce online competition, leading to operational efficiencies that have slashed workforces from six to just two people. The trend highlights the deepening pressure on the retail sector as national economic uncertainty persists.

Ministry Launches 'Berlian' Campaign to Strengthen Child Protection

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has launched the 'Berlian' (Bersama Lindungi Anak) campaign to create safe, inclusive, and nurturing environments for children. The initiative, part of the National Movement for Child Protection (Gernas RANA), coincides with the 42nd National Children's Day. The campaign emphasises listening to children's perspectives and ensuring their protection from violence, discrimination, bullying, and child marriage.

Prabowo: Indonesia and Singapore Agree to Safeguard Malacca Strait as a Shipping Lane for All

President Prabowo Subianto has affirmed that Indonesia and Singapore are committed to maintaining the Malacca Strait as a free and open international shipping lane. Following a meeting with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Prabowo emphasised the vital interest both nations share in ensuring the strait's security, safety, and accessibility. The two countries also plan to continue coordinating with Malaysia and Thailand to uphold the strait's status under the 1982 UNCLOS.

Police say padel employee in South Jakarta was confined in warehouse and goods lift

South Jakarta Metro Police have revealed that a new employee at a padel court was allegedly assaulted and held captive for three days in a warehouse and goods lift. The victim, identified by the initials AL, was reportedly accused of stealing a padel racket before being detained by colleagues. Four suspects have been arrested following a missing person report filed by the victim's mother.

Prabowo highlights warm, heart-to-heart talks in RI-Singapore meeting

President Prabowo Subianto described his bilateral meeting with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong as open and forward-looking, emphasising the maturity of trust between the two nations. The leaders agreed to resolve any misunderstandings through dialogue and reaffirmed their commitment to jointly safeguarding the Strait of Malacca. The talks underscored the strategic value of Indonesia-Singapore relations in addressing regional security and freedom of navigation.

Judicial Commission ready to follow up report from Nadiem Makarim's legal team

Indonesia's Judicial Commission (KY) has confirmed it will process a report alleging ethical violations by four corruption court judges who sentenced former minister Nadiem Makarim to 10 years in prison. The legal team claims the presiding judge had recently received a non-binding guilty verdict from the KY in a separate case, raising concerns about judicial propriety. The Commission pledged a swift and transparent investigation into the matter, which has drawn significant public attention.

Bulog CEO reviews Jayapura rice stocks, aims to triple supply

State logistics agency Bulog is moving to triple its rice reserves in Papua to over 50,000 tonnes to ensure food security and meet high local demand. The initiative follows a direct inspection of the Argapura warehouse in Jayapura, where current stocks stand at 985 tonnes. The bolstered supply aims to prevent shortages and support government food aid programmes through the end of 2026.

Japan Begins 21st Round of Treated Fukushima Nuclear Water Discharge

Japan has commenced the 21st round of releasing treated radioactive water from the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the sea. Operator TEPCO plans to discharge approximately 7,800 tonnes of water containing tritium by 24 July. The ongoing releases, which began in August 2023, have faced persistent international concern and opposition.

Ruteng Diocese Rejects Manganese Mining in Manggarai

The Ruteng Diocese in East Nusa Tenggara has issued a formal statement rejecting a planned manganese mining operation, citing severe threats to the environment and local livelihoods. The Church argues that past mining activities have caused lasting ecological damage, economic hardship, and social conflict without delivering promised prosperity. The statement specifically opposes PT Sumber Jaya Asia's plans in the Bone Wangka area, invoking Pope Francis's teachings on protecting the earth as a common home.

Prabowo Affirms Commitment to Keeping Malacca Strait Safe and Open

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to ensuring the Malacca Strait remains a safe and open international shipping lane. During a Leaders' Retreat with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in Jakarta, both nations agreed on the strategic importance of maintaining security and environmental protection in the vital waterway. The Indonesian leader stressed that coordination with neighbouring states and adherence to UNCLOS 1982 are essential for regional stability.

Indonesia to Export Electricity to Singapore, Rosan Reveals Power Source

Indonesia is advancing plans to export renewable electricity to Singapore, with Danantara acting as the developer. The initial phase will focus on power plants in the Batam, Bintan, and Karimun region, generating between 600 MW and 1.2 GW. Negotiations on pricing are ongoing, with the government insisting on a mutually beneficial agreement before finalising the deal.

China and Russia Commence Joint Naval Exercise

China and Russia have launched the 'Joint Sea-2026' naval exercise in Qingdao, Shandong province. The drills, which follow the completion of force assembly, will involve port-based planning and at-sea operations including joint reconnaissance and air defence. The exercise underscores the deepening military cooperation between the two nations.

Part-time PPPK Can Be Appointed Without Re-selection, Says Ministry

The Ministry of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform has clarified that part-time government employees (PPPK) will not need to undergo a new selection process to become full-time civil servants. The transition is governed by a new ministerial regulation and will be based on agency needs, budget availability, and performance evaluations. This policy serves as a one-time solution for the transitional management of non-civil servant government workers.

Traffic Corps Chief Invokes Cassava Philosophy, Urges Officers to Uphold Integrity and Serve Sincerely

The newly appointed Chief of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps, Inspector General Wibowo, has called on his personnel to serve the public with sincerity and uphold the institution's dignity. During his inaugural address at a handover ceremony, he used the cassava plant as a metaphor for the humility, adaptability, and resilience required of police officers. The ceremony also formalised the rotation of several key strategic positions within the corps.

Prabowo hopes for enduring RI-Singapore ties ahead of 60th diplomatic anniversary

President Prabowo Subianto expressed hope for lasting relations between Indonesia and Singapore as the two nations approach the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2027. Speaking after a leaders' retreat in Jakarta, he emphasised that the unique bilateral relationship is built on shared interests in regional stability and prosperity. The meeting produced 26 concrete deliverables, including 18 government-to-government agreements and eight business-to-business deals.

PKS Applauds Presidential Regulation 111/2025, Calls LGBTQ Campaign Designation as Non-Military Threat a Correct Step

The Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has voiced strong support for Presidential Regulation 111/2025, which classifies the spread of LGBTQ culture as a non-military threat. PKS President Almuzzammil Yusuf stated the policy aligns with Pancasila and public aspirations, framing it as a necessary defence of the nation's social fabric. He also urged regional officials to reinforce the regulation with local bylaws banning LGBTQ campaigns.

Dasco says DPR to visit non-parliamentary parties regarding Election Bill

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) plans to conduct working visits to several non-parliamentary political parties next week to gather input on the draft Election Bill. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad stated the visits will occur during the recess period. Key issues to be discussed include the parliamentary threshold, presidential threshold, and electoral district seat allocations.

Prabowo Subianto: Peace and Stability Key to Indonesia-Singapore Prosperity

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that peace and stability are the essential foundations for the shared prosperity of Indonesia and Singapore. Speaking after a Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta, he noted the two nations' special relationship and common interest in maintaining a conducive regional environment. The meeting resulted in 26 concrete agreements, spanning government-to-government and business-to-business cooperation.

West Java DPRD Denies Proposing Name Change to Tatar Sunda

The West Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has clarified that a proposal to rename the province 'Tatar Sunda' did not originate from the legislature. Officials stated that the council only agreed to conduct a comprehensive study of a community group's suggestion, not to approve the name change itself. Both the DPRD and the Governor emphasised that no official proposal exists and that the province's economic challenges require cautious decision-making.

Indonesian Manufacturing Contracts, Business Leaders Urge Government to Accelerate Special Economic Zone Permits

Indonesia's manufacturing sector contracted in June 2026, with the S&P Global PMI falling to 46.9, prompting calls from industry leaders for the government to fast-track investment. The head of the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association urged the acceleration of Special Economic Zone (KEK) licensing to create new growth centres. Despite the slowdown, investor interest remains high, evidenced by numerous pending KEK proposals across the country.

Hamas Says Israel Uses Military Claims as Pretext for Violations in Gaza

Hamas has rejected Israeli accusations that it is rebuilding its military capabilities in the Gaza Strip, calling them a pretext to justify continued aggression and breaches of the ceasefire agreement. The group insists it remains committed to the truce and has urged mediators to ensure Israel complies with its obligations. The dispute follows Israeli media reports suggesting military officials view Hamas's rebuilding efforts as a growing security challenge.

Legislator calls for review of Transjakarta subscription fare scheme

A Jakarta councillor has urged a review of the proposed Transjakarta fare hike and a monthly subscription scheme of Rp200,000, arguing it disadvantages irregular users and informal workers. M. Taufik Zoelkifli also warned that raising the Transjabodetabek fare to Rp10,000 could push commuters back to private vehicles, undermining efforts to reduce congestion.

Police Officer Allegedly Throws Acid at Victim, Causing 47 Percent Burns

A police officer with the rank of Aiptu is accused of dousing his unofficial wife with a chemical liquid, resulting in burns covering 47 percent of her body. The victim's legal team alleges the attack occurred after she made a mistake while being forced to mix methamphetamine. The officer reportedly cleaned the crime scene and fabricated a story about a gas explosion before taking her to hospital.

KNIU Moves Under Culture Ministry from Education Ministry

The Indonesian National Commission for UNESCO (KNIU) has officially been transferred from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to the Ministry of Culture. The shift, mandated by Presidential Regulation No. 31 of 2026, aims to strengthen Indonesia's tangible role within UNESCO. Culture Minister Fadli Zon welcomed the move, which coincides with Indonesia's election to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee for the 2026–2030 period.

US Cries Thief, China Retaliates with Total Block

Tensions in the US-China tech war have escalated after Alibaba reportedly banned its employees from using Anthropic's Claude Code. The move follows accusations from the US firm that Alibaba illicitly 'distilled' its AI model's capabilities. The dispute highlights the growing battle over AI intellectual property and access between the two nations.

DPR Hearing Heats Up as West Java FK KBIHU Reprimanded for Calling Elderly Hajj Pilgrims 'Troublesome'

A hearing at the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) grew tense after a West Java official described elderly Hajj pilgrims as 'troublesome' and proposed an age limit for the journey. The official argued that frail pilgrims require extensive assistance, which burdens both fellow pilgrims and the guidance groups. Lawmakers immediately rebuked the statement, deeming it inappropriate for a public forum.

JCI Closes Second Session Up 0.69% at 5,916

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) ended Monday's trading session higher, buoyed by varied movements in Asian markets and anticipation of the Federal Reserve's meeting minutes. The index gained 40.23 points, with the infrastructure and financial sectors leading the advance. Meanwhile, global oil markets face fresh dynamics as OPEC+ agreed to another production increase, adding supply amid recovering Hormuz Strait traffic and weakened Chinese demand.

Extreme Weather: Padang Residents Urged to Be Vigilant Against Hydrometeorological Disasters

The Padang city government has heightened its alertness in response to forecasts of extreme weather, including heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds. Residents are being urged to avoid high-risk areas such as beaches and locations prone to flooding or landslides. The warning coincides with the school holiday period, prompting officials to deploy disaster response teams to monitor tourist sites and ensure public safety.

Police Process Crime Scene of Employee Confinement at South Jakarta Padel Venue, Seize Evidence

South Jakarta police have conducted a crime scene investigation at Pedal Padel following the alleged confinement of an employee accused of stealing a racket. Investigators seized evidence including tools used to detain the victim and blood samples, while confirming four suspects have been identified. The venue's management has apologised, stating the alleged actions were neither known nor authorised by the company, and have handed the matter over to the authorities.

Australia and Fiji Sign Defence Alliance Pact to Counter China's Influence

Australia and Fiji have signed a new defence and economic agreement, the 'Ocean of Peace Alliance', which includes a mutual defence obligation. The pact, signed in Suva, marks Fiji's first defence alliance and aims to bolster regional stability amid Canberra's efforts to limit China's growing influence in the Pacific. The signing coincided with China conducting an intercontinental ballistic missile test in the South Pacific, which Beijing described as routine.

Andi Widjajanto Denies Involvement in Protest: I Was Eating at Bundaran HI

Senior PDIP cadre Andi Widjajanto has refuted claims he participated in a student demonstration near Jakarta's Bundaran HI, stating his presence was coincidental as he was having lunch. His appearance at the protest drew criticism from coalition partners PKB and Golkar, who questioned PDIP's stance within the government. PDIP officials have since reiterated the party's clear political position and denied organising any protests.

Police Top List of Institutions Reported to Komnas HAM in 2025

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) received the highest number of human rights complaints in 2025, according to the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM). The commission recorded a significant rise in overall complaints to 3,003, with post-verification data highlighting police conduct, socio-economic grievances, and agrarian conflicts linked to National Strategic Projects as key concerns. Komnas HAM noted a growing structural nature of rights issues, pointing to a gap between state accountability and the exercise of power.

Viral Video of Blackened Opak River in Bantul Investigated, DLH Finds No Pollution

A viral video showing the Opak River in Bantul turning black prompted an immediate investigation by the local Environmental Agency (DLH). Officials confirmed the location was in Banguntapan, not Piyungan as initially reported, and found the water clear and unpolluted upon inspection. The agency is continuing to investigate the possibility of contamination despite the initial findings.

Europe Wants a Strong Military, but Many Countries Aren't Ready to Pay

European nations are pushing to rapidly expand their military spending in response to the war in Ukraine, with NATO targets set at 3.5% of GDP by 2035. While defence industries in countries like Sweden are booming, many major powers, including the UK and France, face severe fiscal constraints and public opposition to funding the increase through higher taxes or cuts to social welfare. The financial shortfall is likely to spark intense debate at the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara.

Prabowo Affirms ASEAN Chooses Diplomacy and Dialogue to Resolve Disputes

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised ASEAN's collective commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful dialogue and diplomacy. The statement was made following a Leaders' Retreat with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in Jakarta. The meeting also served to strengthen bilateral strategic partnerships ahead of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Singapore.

Eco-Friendly Products Propel SCG's Sales in Indonesia

SCG's sales in Indonesia grew 16% year-on-year to IDR 5.05 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, driven by green and high-value-added products. Indonesia now accounts for 28% of the Thai conglomerate's total ASEAN sales. The company is expanding its sustainable construction offerings, including launching a new waterproof concrete and building a new batching plant in North Jakarta.

The Role of Ustadz in the AI Era

The article explores the evolving role of Islamic teachers (ustadz) in the age of artificial intelligence, arguing that AI serves as a tool for rapid information gathering rather than a replacement for human spiritual guidance. It posits that while AI can provide data, the ustadz remains essential for verifying knowledge, providing context, and guiding the practical application of religious teachings. The relationship is likened to a body and soul, where AI is the efficient 'body' and the ustadz is the animating 'spirit'.

Batam Port Transformation: A Strategy to Seize Logistics Sovereignty in the Malacca Strait

Indonesia is being urged to leverage its strategic position along the Malacca Strait to build national logistics sovereignty. An expert argues that tariff adjustments and operational reforms at Batam's port are a long-term strategic investment, not just a short-term cost issue. The goal is to capture more economic value from global trade that currently bypasses the country.

Master Plan Finalised and Budget Approved, Time to Execute Sumatra Recovery Programme

The Indonesian government has completed the master plan for Sumatra's post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction, with the majority of additional budgets for key ministries now approved. Officials are urging an immediate shift from planning to implementation, emphasising that procurement must be accelerated to deliver tangible benefits to survivors. Strict accountability and adherence to the master plan are being mandated to prevent legal issues and ensure effective aid distribution.

Recovery of Funds from Financial Scams Depends on Reporting Time

Indonesia's Anti-Illegal Financial Activities Task Force received 1,300 fraud reports in a single day, but most were filed too late for effective action. The Indonesia Anti-Scam Centre (IASC) has returned Rp196 billion to victims, though the rapid movement of stolen funds into digital wallets and cryptocurrency, along with the trade in bank accounts, remains a major obstacle. Officials are pushing for automated blocking systems to speed up the tracing of illicit money flows.

P2SK Law Assessed as Able to Strengthen Competitiveness and Sovereignty of Indonesia's Crypto Ecosystem, Here's Why

Indonesia's recently passed Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law (UU P2SK) is seen as a pivotal moment to bolster the competitiveness and sovereignty of the national crypto ecosystem. Industry leaders argue the law provides legal certainty and should ensure that the economic value generated by the sector delivers greater benefits domestically. The focus is on creating a level playing field for all exchanges serving Indonesian users while maintaining global connectivity.

House Member Rebukes West Java KBIHU Official for Calling Elderly Hajj Pilgrims a 'Bother'

A West Java hajj guidance group official's suggestion to impose age limits on elderly pilgrims, whom he described as 'bothersome', drew a sharp rebuke from a member of House Commission VIII during a public hearing. The official later clarified his remarks, calling for dedicated government services for elderly and disabled pilgrims. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between pilgrimage organisers and lawmakers over the management of vulnerable pilgrims.

Prabowo Secures 26 Strategic Agreements with Singapore

Indonesia and Singapore have concluded 26 concrete agreements spanning government-to-government and business-to-business cooperation during a Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta. President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the deepening strategic partnership, with economic collaboration remaining a central pillar. The deals cover areas including cross-border electricity trading, digital economy, defence, and environmental cooperation.

What Is a Sharia Bank? Understanding Its Operational System

Sharia banks in Indonesia operate on Islamic principles, avoiding interest (riba), uncertainty (gharar), and speculation (maysir). They utilise profit-and-loss sharing agreements such as murabahah, mudharabah, and ijarah to conduct ethical financial transactions. The sector is experiencing growth, reflecting broader public acceptance beyond just Muslim customers.

The Fate of the JCI and Rupiah Amid Rising Inflation and Trade Deficit

Indonesian financial market investors are closely monitoring the impact of rising inflation, a trade deficit, and a contraction in manufacturing PMI on domestic assets. Despite these pressures, an investment director suggests the market is not overly concerned due to deep corrections and attractive valuations. Improving global oil prices are expected to help restore the nation's trade balance.

KKP Certifies 25 Local Residents to Manage Rote Ndao National Salt Industry Centre

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has provided technical training and certification to 25 local residents for the management of the National Salt Industry Centre (K-SIGN) in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara. The programme, held in Kupang, aims to build a professional workforce to operate the modern salt production facility. Officials stated that human resource development is crucial to ensuring the integrated salt industrial ecosystem improves national production and coastal community welfare.

China's Missile Test in the Pacific Draws Sharp Criticism from Australia, Japan, and New Zealand

China has conducted a long-range missile test in the South Pacific, prompting strong reactions from regional powers. Australia labelled the test as destabilising, while Japan and New Zealand also expressed deep concern, despite Beijing providing prior notification. The test occurred shortly after Australia and Fiji signed a significant defence pact.

RI-Singapore Leaders' Retreat yields 26 concrete agreements

President Prabowo Subianto announced that the bilateral Leaders' Retreat with Singapore produced 26 concrete cooperation agreements, spanning government-to-government and business-to-business sectors. The economic sector remains the primary pillar, with Indonesia appointing the Danantara Investment Management Agency to oversee the implementation of cross-border electricity trading. The leaders also agreed to strengthen people-to-people connectivity through tourism, education, and youth collaboration.

Coordinating Ministry Pushes for Immediate Groundwork on Priority Projects

The Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture has urged ministries and agencies to accelerate the implementation of priority projects, particularly in housing and basic infrastructure, to ensure the benefits are quickly felt by the public. The directive was issued during a coordination meeting for the 2026 Additional Budget, focusing on post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction in Sumatra. The government emphasised the need for synchronised execution to prevent delays and announced strict monitoring to ensure budget efficiency and prevent leakage.

Turkey Bans LGBTQ+ Cruise Ship, Citing 'Moral Values'

Turkish authorities have revoked docking permission for a cruise ship chartered by LGBTQ+ travel company Atlantis Events, claiming the group's behaviour does not align with the country's moral values. The decision forced the vessel, carrying around 1,900 passengers, to reroute to Egypt and Greece, with the company's CEO calling the move discriminatory. The incident reflects the increasingly hardline stance against the LGBTQ+ community under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's government, which has banned Pride parades in Istanbul since 2015.

Ministry of Defence Explains PT Pindad's Reasons for Building Ammunition Factory in Batulicin

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has endorsed PT Pindad's construction of a new ammunition factory in Batulicin, South Kalimantan, as a strategic move to secure munitions supply for the Indonesian Armed Forces. The project aims to reduce reliance on foreign imports and accelerate domestic logistics distribution. The location was chosen based on technical, geographical, and infrastructure considerations.

Police: 'Bang Jago' Who Assaulted Motorcyclist in South Jakarta Tests Positive for Methamphetamine

A motorcyclist who violently assaulted another rider in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, has tested positive for methamphetamine. Police are currently investigating the source of the drugs and will question the suspect's family and associates. The suspect attacked the victim with his fists after a minor collision, causing bruising to the victim's jaw.

PNM opens employment pathways for tens of thousands of high school graduates from underprivileged families

State-owned enterprise PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) has created over 70,000 jobs across Indonesia, with more than 43,000 positions filled by high school and vocational school graduates from underprivileged backgrounds. The expansion of its ultra-micro financing and mentoring services has driven demand for field officers, aligning with the government's Danantara initiative to strengthen MSMEs. PNM's model demonstrates how empowering micro-entrepreneurs generates a multiplier effect, fostering economic growth and community-level prosperity.

Indonesia and Singapore Agree to Keep Malacca Strait Safe and Free for All

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed a joint commitment with Singapore to maintain the Malacca Strait as a secure and open international shipping lane. Following a Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta, both nations emphasised their strategic interest in ensuring the waterway remains free from threats such as piracy, pollution, and accidents. Indonesia will also continue coordinating with Malaysia and Thailand to uphold the strait's status in accordance with the 1982 UNCLOS.

Police confirm suspicious object on drone was a replica grenade

Jakarta police have confirmed that a suspicious object attached to a drone in Depok was a replica grenade, not an active explosive. The discovery followed a report by lawyer Novianus Martin Bau, who found the drone in his yard with a message reading 'This is just the beginning'. Authorities are continuing to investigate the motive and origin of the incident, which the lawyer suspects is linked to a land dispute case he is handling.

Under Danantara, PNM Opens Employment Path for Tens of Thousands of High School Graduates from Underprivileged Families

State-owned enterprise PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) is addressing Indonesia's high youth unemployment by creating tens of thousands of jobs for senior high school and vocational school graduates, predominantly from underprivileged backgrounds. The initiative, operating under the Danantara ecosystem, has absorbed over 70,000 workers nationwide, with 88 per cent being women, to support its microfinance and empowerment programmes. PNM's director emphasised that expanding access to financing for ultra-micro businesses simultaneously generates employment and fosters community welfare.

Ferry Irwandi Testifies in Khariq Anhar Trial, Explains Internet Meme Culture

Content creator Ferry Irwandi testified as a witness in the trial of Khariq Anhar, who is accused of manipulating a screenshot of a statement by KSPI President Said Iqbal. Irwandi explained that superimposed text and satirical posters are a long-standing part of internet culture used for criticism and humour. He argued that the visual changes in the disputed post were obvious and did not constitute an attempt to deceive.

KPK Searches Multiple Locations in Kuansing Regent Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted searches at several locations as part of an investigation into alleged bribery and gratuities involving Kuansing Regent Suhardiman Amby. The case relates to the release of a limited production forest area. Suhardiman, along with a regional secretary and a company director, has been named a suspect and detained.

Indonesia's 100 Mbps Internet Race: Hitting the 2028 Target

The Indonesian government is pursuing an ambitious target to achieve an average national internet speed of 100 Mbps by 2028, focusing on fibre-optic expansion and satellite connectivity to bridge the digital divide. This initiative is deemed crucial for governance efficiency, MSME growth, and regional equity, though significant hurdles remain, including the high cost of infrastructure across the archipelago and the financial strain on internet service providers. With Java dominating current connectivity, the challenge lies in delivering stable, high-speed access to remote and underserved islands to ensure equitable socio-economic development.

Free Nutritious Meals Require Anti-Corruption Governance

Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is a strategic social investment, but its success hinges on robust governance. Analysis identifies five critical stages—from budget planning to reporting—that require transparency and accountability to prevent mismanagement. Strengthening institutional systems, digitalisation, and public oversight is essential to ensure the programme's integrity and long-term impact.

Gunungkidul Agriculture Agency to Promote 'Gallon Rice' Cultivation Method

The Agriculture and Food Agency of Gunungkidul Regency is promoting rice cultivation using plastic gallon containers as an efficient alternative for residents with unproductive or limited land. The method, already successfully trialled by a farmer group in Ponjong and a village head in Wonosari, requires no tilling and minimal watering. Officials stress it remains a supplementary option, as the central government prioritises expanding traditional paddy field planting areas.

Prabowo: RI-Singapore Meeting Was Heart-to-Heart

President Prabowo Subianto described his bilateral meeting with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong as an intensive, heart-to-heart discussion focused on future challenges. The leaders agreed to resolve any misunderstandings openly as friends, reflecting the maturity of diplomatic relations built on high mutual trust. They also committed to maintaining the safety of the Malacca Strait from pollution, accidents, and piracy in coordination with Malaysia and Thailand.

Did TikTok Lay Off Over 1,200 Tokopedia Employees?

A presidential advisor is investigating claims that TikTok laid off 90% of Tokopedia's workforce after acquiring the Indonesian e-commerce platform, threatening legal action under ILO conventions. Tokopedia's president director denied any terminations, stating the company is undergoing internal mobility and recruitment, while GoTo confirmed the restructuring has limited impact on its finances due to its diluted ownership.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah calls for PPIHU compliance to protect pilgrims

Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged all Hajj and Umrah travel organisers to strictly adhere to regulations, warning that violations will be met with legal action. The ministry emphasised that compliance is essential to safeguard prospective pilgrims from fraudulent practices such as the illegal trading of user accounts. Effective oversight and cooperation among stakeholders were highlighted as critical to ensuring safe and high-quality services for worshippers travelling to the Holy Land.

Kakorlantas Leads Swearing-In of Key Traffic Corps Officials, Stresses Unity and Resilience

The Head of the Indonesian National Police's Traffic Corps (Kakorlantas), Inspector General Wibowo, presided over the inauguration and handover of several key officials in Jakarta. He urged the newly appointed officers to prioritise collaboration and uphold the institution's integrity. Wibowo also used the philosophy of the cassava plant to symbolise the values of simplicity, adaptability, and resilience required for their duties.

Business Expansion via Share IPO, BACH Aims to Add 50 MW of Gensets

PT Bach Multi Global Tbk (BACH) is planning an initial public offering to raise between IDR 271 billion and IDR 307.5 billion. The company intends to use the fresh funds to repay part of its debt and as working capital to purchase 50 megawatts of new gensets for rental or sale. This move is part of a strategy to strengthen its capital structure and boost business performance by the end of 2026.

South Korean Won Trades 24 Hours as Government Fights Dollar Strength

South Korea has launched 24-hour trading for the won against the US dollar in a bid to attract foreign investors and achieve developed market status. The extended trading hours come as the won faces continued depreciation pressure due to foreign equity sell-offs and a broadly stronger dollar. Analysts suggest the currency's weakness is driven more by portfolio outflows than trade fundamentals.

Telkom Completes Streamlining of 10 Entities to Accelerate Transformation into Strategic Holding

PT Telkom Indonesia has completed the streamlining of 10 subsidiaries by the first half of 2026 as part of its commitment to state-owned enterprise reform. The initiative, a key pillar of the TLKM 30 strategy, involves divestments, mergers, and liquidations to create a leaner structure. The restructuring aims to sharpen Telkom's focus on its core telecommunications and digital businesses as it transitions from an operating holding to a strategic holding company.

Dasco Clarifies Birthday Greeting Post for Nadiem Amid Corruption Case

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has clarified that his Instagram birthday greeting for former minister Nadiem Makarim was merely a new social media protocol and not a political signal. The post sparked speculation about potential presidential intervention in Nadiem's ongoing appeal against a 10-year prison sentence for corruption. Dasco dismissed any hidden meaning, stating the gesture was simply to share in the joy of Nadiem's birthday.

MORAZEN Yogyakarta Holds Run For Fun 2026 to Strengthen Kulon Progo Sports Tourism

MORAZEN Yogyakarta successfully hosted the Run For Fun 2026 event, attracting 300 participants from across Central Java and Yogyakarta. The non-competitive 5-kilometre run aimed to promote a healthy lifestyle while showcasing the natural beauty and sports tourism potential of Kulon Progo. The initiative received strong support from the local government, with the Deputy Regent highlighting its positive impact on public health and the local economy.

Ebola death toll in DR Congo surpasses 500 as risk of wider spread increases

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has claimed more than 500 lives, with the case fatality rate estimated at 32.4 per cent. The World Health Organisation previously declared the epidemic a public health emergency of international concern, citing a high risk of further regional spread. Congolese authorities have imposed crowd restrictions in the capital Kinshasa and three provinces to curb transmission.

Magnitude 5.9 Earthquake Strikes Off Mindanao, Tremors Felt in Sangihe Islands

A tectonic earthquake of magnitude 5.9 struck the sea near Mindanao, Philippines, on Monday evening, with strong tremors felt across Indonesia's Sangihe Islands. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) confirmed there was no tsunami threat to Indonesia. The quake registered an intensity of IV to V on the MMI scale in several areas of North Sulawesi, with aftershock activity also recorded.

Trans-Jakarta Monthly Subscription Fare of Rp200,000 Considered a Solution

A transport analyst has endorsed a proposal for a monthly Trans-Jakarta subscription fare of Rp200,000, arguing it would ease the burden on daily commuters if regular fares rise to Rp5,000 per trip. The Jakarta Transport Council also proposed introducing paid fares for Mikrotrans services to improve service quality awareness. A phased implementation is recommended to avoid public backlash.

How to Verify Official 2026 Economic Census Officers from BPS

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) is urging the public to verify the identity of census officers before participating in the 2026 Economic Census. All official enumerators will be equipped with branded vests, name tags featuring scannable barcodes, and letters of assignment to prevent fraud. The agency is also coordinating with local authorities and community leaders to ensure a smooth and trustworthy data collection process.

Dasco Claims No Motive Behind Birthday Greeting to Nadiem

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has clarified that his social media birthday greeting to former minister Nadiem Makarim, now a corruption suspect, carried no hidden agenda. Dasco attributed the post to a new social media administrator who routinely sends birthday wishes to public figures. He also declined to confirm or deny speculation regarding a potential amnesty for Nadiem.

Three Arrested After Machete Attack on Police During Drug Raid in Central Kalimantan

Three suspects have been arrested in connection with a violent attack on anti-narcotics officers during a drug raid in Katingan, Central Kalimantan, which resulted in the deaths of two policemen. The suspects, identified by their initials, allegedly attacked the officers with machetes, and police are still pursuing the primary drug dealer. A third officer remains missing as search efforts continue.

IHSG Closes 0.77% Higher at 5,920 on 6 July 2026, Two Stocks Most Actively Traded

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index (IHSG) strengthened by 0.77% to close at 5,920.931 on Monday, 6 July 2026, extending gains from the previous week. PT Bakrie & Brothers Tbk (BNBR) and PT Bumi Resources Tbk (BUMI) were the most actively traded stocks by volume during the session.

Prabowo Affirms Regional Stability as Shared Interest for Indonesia and Singapore

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that regional stability and prosperity are mutual interests requiring sustained cooperation between Indonesia and Singapore. Speaking alongside Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in Jakarta, he highlighted that peace is the essential foundation for shared prosperity. The leaders are preparing to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2027.

Indonesia to Export Electricity to Singapore, but Bahlil Says Price Is 'Not Yet Win-Win'

Indonesia is moving forward with plans to export electricity to Singapore, but Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia insists the current pricing is not yet mutually beneficial. The government has appointed BPI Danantara to implement the cross-border electricity trade, which is part of a broader energy cooperation agreement. Negotiations are ongoing to reach a pricing structure that is advantageous for both nations.

KSP-PB urges new Manpower Bill to protect non-conventional workers

The Coalition of Labour Unions and the Labour Party (KSP-PB) is pushing for the new Manpower Bill to extend protections to freelancers and workers in non-conventional sectors. Union leaders highlighted the growing number of project-based workers in media, creative industries, and healthcare who lack adequate social security and job certainty. The bill, mandated by a Constitutional Court ruling, must be completed by October 2026.

DPR facilitates meeting between TikTok-Tokopedia and Manpower Ministry over layoffs

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has stepped in to mediate discussions between TikTok-Tokopedia and the Manpower Ministry regarding a wave of employee layoffs. The meeting, held at the parliament complex in Jakarta, addressed the job cuts which the company described as part of an internal restructuring. The talks aimed to ensure the process complies with Indonesian labour regulations.

The Sound of Water Tankers Becomes a Sound of Hope for Banyumas Residents

Residents in drought-stricken areas of Banyumas Regency, Central Java, are relying on emergency water supplies as the dry season intensifies. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has identified 81 villages across 19 sub-districts as vulnerable to water shortages and is distributing tens of thousands of litres of water. Officials stress that while the aid is crucial, a permanent solution requires long-term infrastructure investment from technical departments.

Nadiem Makarim's Legal Counsel Suspects Judges in Chromebook Case Were Not Impartial

Nadiem Makarim's legal team has reported four judges to the Judicial Commission over alleged ethical violations, claiming the trial was not impartial. The lawyers argue that the proceedings attracted international media attention and that ignoring the Commission's previous recommendations undermines judicial reform. They have urged the Supreme Court to respect and implement the Judicial Commission's recommendations to restore public trust.

Why MSME Lending Growth Remains Sluggish

Credit disbursement to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia grew by a mere 0.6% year-on-year as of May 2026, reaching Rp1,509.5 trillion. Analysts attribute the sluggish growth to high producer inflation, weakened consumer purchasing power, competition from cheap imports via e-commerce, and global economic uncertainty, which collectively erode MSME cash flows and creditworthiness.

UMJ Agribusiness Students Sweep Awards at National UAD Fair 2026

Agribusiness students from Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta (UMJ) secured multiple awards at the 2026 UAD Fair national entrepreneurship exhibition in Yogyakarta. Their winning innovations included a circular-economy organic fertiliser made from household waste and a kombucha-based probiotic drink. The achievements highlight UMJ's commitment to fostering student entrepreneurship and sustainable agricultural innovation.

Momentum to Strengthen Legal Protection for Healthcare Workers

The death of a doctor in East Nusa Tenggara, allegedly following workplace intimidation, has highlighted the inadequate legal protections for Indonesian healthcare workers. The government is drafting a new presidential regulation to bolster their security and safety. This case underscores the urgent need to evaluate existing rules and ensure the state can guarantee a safe working environment for medical professionals.

Reasons Behind the 2027 Free Nutritious Meal Budget Cut, It Turns Out Because...

The House of Representatives' Budget Committee has indicated that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme will be lower in 2027, estimated not to exceed Rp174 trillion. The adjustment is based on actual operational needs, including the projected number of service units and 84 million student beneficiaries, rather than a reduction in programme quality. Officials stressed that maintaining nutritional standards and effective governance remains the top priority.

PTPN III reports consolidated profit of Rp6.39 trillion in 2025

State-owned plantation holding company PTPN III posted a consolidated net profit of Rp6.39 trillion in 2025, an 81.3 per cent increase from the previous year, driven by higher palm oil prices. The company aims to boost total revenue by 40 per cent to Rp73.6 trillion in 2026, supported by increased production targets for key commodities. PTPN III's leadership presented the results to the House of Representatives' Commission VI, seeking guidance to achieve next year's operational goals.

Indonesia Returns to Enliven International Vocational Competition in Timor Leste

Indonesia is once again participating in the second Timor-Leste International Friendly Skills Competition, joining around 60 international delegates in Dili and Liquiça. The event, which runs from 6 to 9 July, features contestants from eight countries, including Southeast Asian and Pacific Island nations, competing in electrical installation, cooking, restaurant service, and welding. Organisers hope the competition and its side events will foster regional cooperation, promote youth skills, and enhance workforce mobility.

SDN 1 Semarapura Klod Kangin in Klungkung Receives Only 5 New Students

SDN 1 Semarapura Klod Kangin in Klungkung, Bali, has enrolled only five new students for the 2026/2027 academic year, prompting the headmaster to seek intervention from the local education authority. The low intake is attributed to a small zonal population and the proximity of more popular schools. The Klungkung Education, Youth and Sports Office has acknowledged the enrolment disparity and plans to hold discussions to address the issue.

President seeks better facilities for madrasas: Deputy Minister

The Indonesian government is advancing a nationwide programme to upgrade madrasa infrastructure, aiming to improve learning environments and boost the Human Development Index. Deputy Minister Syafi’i confirmed that 548 madrasas across 26 provinces have already been revitalised with Rp1.3 trillion in funding, with a total target of 1,397 schools. The initiative also emphasises accountable budget management and long-term maintenance of the upgraded facilities.

Bobby Nasution on Langkat Regent's KPK Arrest: The People Are the Victims

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution expressed regret over the corruption arrest of Langkat Regent Syah Afandin by the KPK, emphasising that the public bears the ultimate cost of misused development funds. The regent was caught in a sting operation for allegedly accepting Rp800 million in bribes related to education and housing projects.

AI Enters Healthcare Business, Aiding Research and Business Innovation

PT Kalbe Farma Tbk (KLBF) Director Mulia Lie has expressed optimism about the national healthcare industry's potential in the digitalisation era. The company is implementing artificial intelligence to support research and development, improve service quality, and enhance public education. Innovation is described as the backbone of KLBF's business development, aimed at strengthening its overall ecosystem.

Minister Amran boosts Merauke farm productivity with PM AAS modern agriculture system

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman is accelerating agricultural transformation in Merauke, South Papua, through the Advanced Agriculture System (PM AAS) to achieve sustainable food self-sufficiency. The method, which combines American, Indonesian, and Chinese farming techniques, is claimed to double rice production to up to 12 tonnes per hectare. The government aims to expand the system to one million hectares nationwide this year, integrating it with land optimisation programmes to bolster national food security.

Dasco Clarifies Birthday Greeting for Nadiem Makarim

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has clarified that his social media post wishing former minister Nadiem Makarim a happy birthday was a routine gesture by a new staff member and carried no political or legal implications. The clarification comes amid speculation linking the greeting to potential presidential clemency for Nadiem, who is currently serving a 10-year prison sentence for corruption. Dasco expressed bewilderment that a simple birthday message had sparked such conjecture.

Iran After Ayatollah Khamenei: Millions of Mourners, Yet the Future Remains Uncertain

The funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is being orchestrated as a massive show of strength for the Islamic Republic, with the government mobilising millions of mourners across a six-day procession. However, the spectacle masks deep internal divisions, as many Iranians view his legacy as one of repression, while the designated successor, his son Mojtaba, remains conspicuously absent from public view. The event highlights a potential power shift where the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) may eclipse traditional clerical authority in determining the nation's future.

TikTok Opens Over 100 Job Vacancies Amid Tokopedia Mass Layoff Issue

TikTok Indonesia's President Director has announced the opening of more than 100 new positions, countering reports of mass layoffs at Tokopedia. The announcement followed a meeting with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Minister of Manpower. The company insists it is undergoing internal restructuring and mobility rather than terminating employment.

Education Ministry shares best practices for early childhood enrolment to support 13-year compulsory education

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is promoting best practices in early childhood education enrolment as part of the new 13-year compulsory education programme. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasised the foundational importance of early childhood development, while a pilot school in Kudus demonstrated a transparent registration process focused on character building. The initiative also expands the Indonesia Pintar scholarship programme to kindergarten students.

Police Say Victims in Little Aresha Jogja Daycare Case Could Reach 200 Children

The investigation into abuse at the Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta has expanded, with police now identifying 144 victims and expecting the total to reach around 200. A total of 27 suspects have been named, including 14 newly designated individuals, while 13 earlier suspects have been handed over to the prosecutor's office. Authorities indicated that victim examinations were temporarily delayed due to legal deadlines concerning the initial suspects' detention but are set to resume shortly.

Prabowo Tells Singapore PM: Any Misunderstandings Will Be Resolved Openly

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto hosted Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong for a bilateral Leaders' Retreat in Jakarta, emphasising the special relationship between the two neighbours. Prabowo stated that both nations share a common interest in regional stability and prosperity, which cannot exist without peace. The leaders agreed that any future misunderstandings would be resolved openly and as friends.

Indonesia and Singapore Agree to Keep Malacca Strait Free for All Passage

Indonesia and Singapore have committed to maintaining the Malacca Strait as a free and secure passage for all vessels. The agreement, announced during a leaders' retreat in Jakarta, focuses on preventing accidents, piracy, and pollution in the vital shipping lane. Both nations also pledged to coordinate with Malaysia and Thailand in line with UNCLOS 1982.

Immigration uncovers transnational 'love scamming' network in Medan

Indonesian immigration authorities and North Sumatra Police have dismantled a transnational online fraud syndicate operating in Medan, arresting seven foreign nationals and 31 Indonesian citizens. The network allegedly used romance scams to deceive victims, with the foreign suspects believed to be the ringleaders. Authorities seized numerous electronic devices and are coordinating with Chinese and Vietnamese embassies for deportation and a 10-year entry ban.

Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo: 500 Dead as Community Transmission Rises

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has claimed over 500 lives, with health authorities reporting a worrying escalation in community-level transmission. The World Health Organisation has launched a clinical trial in Ituri Province to evaluate potential treatments for the Bundibugyo strain of the virus. The outbreak has spread across 36 health zones in three provinces, with weekly confirmed cases reaching record highs.

Agrinas Palma to Manage 4.1 Million Hectares of Plantation Land in Forest Areas

State-owned plantation company PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara has been tasked with managing 4.1 million hectares of land within forest zones, with plans to convert a portion to non-forestry use. The company is seeking to secure land rights for approximately 210,000 hectares this year, primarily for oil palm cultivation, pending approval from the Ministry of Forestry. The initiative involves land originating from former problematic assets and forest reclamation efforts, with the government planning to inject the land as state capital into the firm.

Indonesia Forest Carbon Hub Launched to Position Nation as Global Carbon Trading Centre

The Ministry of Forestry has inaugurated the Indonesia Forest Carbon Hub, aiming to establish the country as a global centre for carbon trading. The initiative involves partnerships with international bodies such as IETA and the ICVCM to ensure high-integrity carbon credits and adherence to global standards. The government is also collaborating with the Coalition to Grow Carbon Markets and Emergent to develop jurisdictional carbon schemes, extending economic benefits to regional governments.

Nadiem Makarim's Legal Team Reports Four Judges to Judicial Commission

The legal team of former minister Nadiem Makarim has filed a report with the Judicial Commission against four judges handling his corruption case. The report alleges ethical violations including manipulation of trial facts, lack of impartiality, and a judge falling asleep during proceedings. The complaint follows Nadiem's 10-year prison sentence in a case related to Chromebook procurement.

E-commerce Merchants Now Required to Have NIB, Here's How to Obtain It

The Indonesian government has tightened regulations for online sellers through Trade Minister Regulation No. 19/2026, mandating that all e-commerce merchants must possess a Business Identification Number (NIB). Marketplaces are now required to reject unlicensed sellers, though a six-month grace period is granted for those still processing their permits. Failure to comply will result in restricted or terminated transaction access on the platform.

Jakarta Councillor Redeems Orphan's Withheld Certificate, Calls for End to Education Barriers

A Jakarta DPRD member has personally funded the release of a diploma withheld from an orphaned student due to unpaid school fees. Hardiyanto Kenneth stressed that education is a fundamental right and urged the Jakarta Provincial Government to implement systemic policies to prevent schools from holding certificates over financial difficulties. He called for early detection mechanisms to ensure no student's future is jeopardised by economic hardship.

Children Under 3 Can Ride Whoosh for Free: Here Are the Terms

The Whoosh high-speed train service is offering free tickets for infants under three years old, provided they sit on an adult's lap. Parents must still obtain a zero-cost infant ticket to ensure every passenger is recorded in the manifest. Additionally, the service has outlined its free and paid rescheduling policies, including deadlines and administrative fees for multiple changes.

Identity of Body Found in Jatiluwih Forest, Tabanan, Revealed as South African Photographer

Police in Tabanan, Bali, have identified a body discovered in the Sanghyang Forest as Adriaan Campbell Louw, a 53-year-old South African photographer. The identification was confirmed through a Medical ID on his iPhone and coordination with immigration authorities. Authorities are still awaiting autopsy and toxicology results to determine the cause of death.

Prabowo: Economic cooperation main pillar of Indonesia-Singapore relations

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised that economic cooperation remains the cornerstone of Indonesia-Singapore relations, highlighting expanded collaboration across trade, energy, digital economy, and food security. The Leaders' Retreat produced 26 concrete outcomes, including 18 government-to-government and eight business-to-business agreements. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to resolving any misunderstandings openly, underpinned by a shared interest in regional stability and prosperity.

Consumers Urged to Check Four Critical Points Before Buying Ex-Fleet Used Cars

Vehicle inspection company Garasi.id has identified four critical areas that buyers frequently scrutinise when purchasing ex-fleet used cars, particularly those aged four to five years. These points—body structure, automatic transmission condition, undercarriage components, and engine leaks—are often used to negotiate significant price reductions. The firm advises that companies can protect their asset resale value by providing transparent, professional inspection reports covering up to 170 checkpoints.

14 New Suspects in Little Aresha Daycare Case Not Yet Detained, Here's Why

Police in Yogyakarta have named 14 additional suspects in the Little Aresha daycare abuse case but have deferred their detention pending a case review. The new suspects include ten caregivers, two administrative staff, a security guard, and a household staff member. Authorities are preparing charges of abuse for the caregivers and charges of criminal negligence for the remaining staff.

Mediation Between Bank NTT Lembata and Customer Over Alleged Fictitious Loan Ends in Deadlock

A second mediation session between Bank NTT's Lembata branch and customer Lasarus Teka Udek over an alleged fictitious loan of Rp230 million has failed to reach a resolution. Bank employees testified that procedures were followed, while the customer vehemently denies ever applying for or receiving the funds. The bank has left the door open for the customer to pursue legal action.

PPN DTP Ends, Domestic Flight Ticket Prices Rise by Up to Rp300,000

The end of the government's Value Added Tax (PPN) incentive on 5 July 2026 has led to an immediate increase in domestic economy-class flight ticket prices. Popular routes such as Jakarta-Bali and Jakarta-Yogyakarta have seen fares rise by approximately Rp300,000 as the tax is once again passed on to passengers. The incentive was part of a broader economic stimulus package aimed at boosting purchasing power during the school holiday period.

Government deploys two additional helicopters to combat TPA Jatiwaringin fire

The Indonesian government has intensified efforts to extinguish a landfill fire at TPA Jatiwaringin in Tangerang Regency by deploying two additional water-bombing helicopters, bringing the total to four. Ground crews are simultaneously using heavy equipment and an injection method to tackle subsurface fires. The active fire zone has been reduced to approximately 1.68 hectares from an initial 18 hectares.

KPK Searches Multiple Locations in Kuansing Related to Case of Regent Suhardiman Amby

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has conducted searches in Kuantan Singingi Regency, Riau, as part of an investigation into a bribery case involving the inactive regent. Suhardiman Amby is suspected of accepting a Toyota Land Cruiser worth Rp 2 billion in exchange for appointing Zulkarnain as regional secretary. Three individuals have been named as suspects in the case, which began in April 2025.

West Kalimantan Governor Confirms People's School Construction in Singkawang on Track

West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan has inspected the construction progress of a People's School in Singkawang, expressing confidence that the project will meet its August 2026 completion target. The school, part of a central government initiative to expand access to quality education, will serve primary, junior, and senior high students from underprivileged families. The provincial government is coordinating closely with central authorities to ensure the facility is operational by early September 2026.

West Java KBIH Official Calls Elderly Pilgrims a Burden, MP Furious

A representative of the West Java Haji and Umrah Guidance Group (KBIHU) sparked outrage in Indonesia's parliament after suggesting age limits for pilgrims, claiming elderly hajj participants are a burden. The proposal was met with a sharp rebuke from a member of House Commission VIII, who demanded the statement be retracted and emphasised that special services for elderly and disabled pilgrims are mandated by law.

Nadiem Reports Four Central Jakarta Corruption Court Judges to Judicial Commission

Former Education and Culture Minister Nadiem Makarim has filed a complaint with the Judicial Commission against four judges who convicted him in a corruption case, alleging manipulation of trial facts. The Judicial Commission confirmed receipt of the report and will analyse it, while the Central Jakarta District Court stated that filing such a report is the right of every citizen.

Central Kalimantan's Early Childhood Education Head Stresses PAUD as Key Foundation for 13-Year Compulsory Education

Aisyah Thisia Agustiar Sabran, the head of Early Childhood Education (PAUD) in Central Kalimantan, has emphasised the critical role of preschool education as the foundation for the government's 13-year compulsory education policy. She stated that the policy aims to ensure all children receive quality education from an early age, focusing on building character, independence, and a love for lifelong learning. The initiative seeks to guarantee that every child aged five to six in the province has access to preschool as preparation for primary school.

Indonesian National Police to Implement Curriculum Based on Human Rights, AI, and Big Data in 2027

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) is redesigning its entire educational curriculum to align with the new Police Law and reform recommendations, with implementation set for 2027. The overhaul will integrate human rights principles, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics across all training levels, from recruitment to senior leadership development. The initiative includes launching thematic classes and a modern Social Science Laboratory to foster evidence-based policing and prepare future leaders from Generation Z and Alpha.

Tabanan Police Uncover Dozens of Theft and Drug Cases in Two Months

The Tabanan Resort Police have revealed 22 criminal cases over May and June 2026, including nine thefts and 11 drug offences. The majority of thefts were economically motivated, while drug enforcement operations netted over 43 grammes of methamphetamine. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.

Manpower Minister Appreciates DPR's Swift Response to TikTok-Tokopedia Layoff Issue

Manpower Minister Yassierli has praised the House of Representatives (DPR) for its rapid response in addressing public concerns regarding mass layoffs at TikTok and Tokopedia. Following a meeting with company representatives, DPR Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad clarified that reports of 1,200 layoffs were inaccurate, stating only around 200 employees had accepted compensation packages. The government and parliament are seeking clarification on the restructuring within the digital platform's business units.

Luhut Meets Tony Blair, Showcases Indonesia's Digital Social Aid

National Economic Council Chair Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan presented Indonesia's digital governance transformation to former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, highlighting a new system that slashes social aid verification from months to minutes. The initiative, currently piloted in 43 districts, is a key strategy to escape the middle-income trap and achieve the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. Luhut also invited the Tony Blair Institute to collaborate on accelerating the country's digital public infrastructure.

Manpower Minister Appreciates DPR Leadership's Move to Clarify Tokopedia Layoff Issue

Manpower Minister Yassierli has praised the House of Representatives (DPR) for swiftly facilitating a meeting to address viral concerns about layoffs at Tokopedia. TikTok and Tokopedia executives clarified that no terminations occurred, describing the changes as a workforce restructuring with internal mobility options. The company also announced it is currently recruiting for over 100 positions in Indonesia.

Weather Modification Operations Not Yet Viable for Jatiwaringin Landfill Fire

Efforts to extinguish the week-long fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang Regency have been hampered by a lack of suitable cloud cover, preventing weather modification operations (OMC) from being deployed. While three helicopters are currently water bombing the site, authorities have a Cessna Caravan on standby to conduct cloud seeding as soon as conditions improve. The blaze, which has affected 15 hectares, is now largely under control with only 3.6 percent of the area still burning.

14 New Suspects Named in Little Aresha Daycare Abuse Case, Including Carers and Security Guard

Police in Yogyakarta have named 14 additional suspects in the Little Aresha daycare abuse investigation, bringing the total number of accused carers to 21. The new suspects include ten carers, two administrative staff, a security guard, and a household staff member. Authorities determined there was sufficient evidence of criminal conduct following a case review, while three other individuals initially under scrutiny were not charged.

Prabowo Appoints Danantara to Export Electricity to Singapore

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed BPI Danantara to manage the cross-border electricity trade with Singapore, encompassing broader energy and digital economy cooperation. The government has indicated that the 3 GW export plan will not commence this year, as it requires up to 1.5 years to build the necessary infrastructure. The total investment for the project is estimated at US$10 billion, excluding industrial zones.

PNG Repatriates Seven Merauke Fishermen via Skouw Border Post

Papua New Guinea has repatriated seven fishermen from Merauke, South Papua, after they were rescued at sea. The fishermen were handed over to Indonesian authorities at the Skouw border post. They had been adrift after their boat suffered damage and were initially taken to Daru and Port Moresby before being returned without legal charges.

Video: Examining the Allure of BACH's IPO Shares for Retail Investors

PT Bach Multi Global, a telecommunications infrastructure company, is set to launch its initial public offering on the Indonesia Stock Exchange on 7 July 2026. The lead underwriter, PT Erdikha Elit Sekuritas, views the IPO as a positive market sentiment amid ongoing volatility, noting strong interest from new Gen Z investors. The company aims to raise IDR 307.5 billion from the offering.

Agrinas Denies Layoff Rumours, Plans to Hire 20,000 Workers Instead

PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara has refuted rumours of impending layoffs, announcing plans to recruit over 20,000 new employees to boost productivity. The recruitment drive, running until August 2026, will prioritise local residents for roles ranging from management to harvesters. The announcement was made during a hearing with the House of Representatives' Commission VI.

Academic Highlights Importance of Mental Health Amidst Social Media Pressures

An academic from Gadjah Mada University (UGM) has stressed the importance of maintaining mental health alongside physical well-being, particularly given the pressures of academic life and social media. The university is providing dedicated counsellor services to support students. A psychologist also highlighted the role of Psychological First Aid (PFA) and active listening in helping individuals cope with psychological stress before it escalates.

House Budget Committee Rejects Proposal to Raise Regional Heads' Salaries via PAD

The House of Representatives' Budget Committee (Banggar) has rejected a proposal to increase the salaries of regional heads and their deputies by up to 20 percent sourced from locally generated revenue (PAD). The committee chairman urged a halt to the discussion until the country's fiscal condition improves, prioritising financial stability. The proposal was initially floated as a potential measure to curb corruption among regional leaders.

Indonesia and Singapore Agree on 26 Cooperation Deals, Prabowo: Concrete Achievements

President Prabowo Subianto and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong concluded a productive bilateral meeting in Jakarta, resulting in 26 cooperation agreements. The deals span government-to-government and business-to-business partnerships, covering key sectors such as cross-border electricity trade, the digital economy, and defence. The leaders emphasised that the agreements reflect the deepening economic and people-to-people ties between the two nations.

Reddit ban lifted as Indonesia’s social media rules enter a new phase

Indonesia has lifted its 11-year ban on Reddit after the platform agreed to geoblock illegal content and comply with local regulations, signalling a shift towards conditional internet access rather than outright censorship. The move coincides with a broader enforcement drive that has seen TikTok and YouTube deactivate millions of under-16 accounts under new child safety rules, while the government also intensifies its fight against online gambling through a joint team with Meta. The developments underscore Jakarta’s strategy of demanding platform accountability, though they raise significant questions about the balance between user safety and digital privacy.

South Jakarta Court Rejects Pretrial Motion of Hajj Quota Corruption Suspect

The South Jakarta District Court has rejected a pretrial motion filed by Asrul Azis Taba, chairman of the Kesthuri hajj and umrah travel association, challenging his detention in a corruption case. The judge ruled the arrest and detention were lawful and dismissed the argument that the 76-year-old suspect's age made his detention excessive. Taba is accused of corruption related to the management of additional hajj quotas for 2023-2024, with investigators alleging illicit profits of Rp40.8 billion were obtained by affiliated travel operators.

23 TNI Soldiers Receive Exceptional Promotions for Dedication in Papua

Twenty-three Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel have been awarded exceptional promotions for their dedicated service in maintaining state sovereignty in Papua. The ceremony took place at the Yonif 754/ENK headquarters in Timika, Central Papua. The Panglima TNI expressed hope that the recognition would boost morale and inspire other soldiers to excel in their duties.

Iran to Impose Tariffs on Strait of Hormuz, Friendly Nations to Receive Special Treatment

Iran's ambassador to China has confirmed plans to levy service charges on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a move strongly opposed by Washington. Under a preliminary US-Iran agreement, commercial ships will pass freely for 60 days, but the long-term arrangement remains unclear. The ambassador indicated that 'friendly' nations supporting Iran during difficult times would receive special consideration.

OJK: Carbon trading opens green investment opportunities for Indonesia

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has stated that the implementation of forestry carbon trading opens significant green investment opportunities for the country. The launch of the voluntary carbon market, utilizing a Non-GHG Emission Reduction Certificate scheme, is seen as a historic moment to attract sustainable global investment. The OJK emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration to build a credible, transparent, and high-integrity carbon market ecosystem.

Trump Dismisses Mourners' Tears at Khamenei's Funeral as 'Crocodile Tears'

US President Donald Trump expressed surprise at the massive turnout for the funeral of Iran's former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, claiming the mourners' tears were insincere. He also alleged that Iran is eager to resume negotiations and that both sides agreed to postpone talks until after the burial. The funeral drew an estimated 15 million people, with crowds chanting anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans.

DPR Budget Committee Estimates Free Nutritious Meal Programme Budget to Drop to Rp174 Trillion in 2027

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Budget Committee estimates the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme will decrease to Rp174 trillion in 2027, down from the 2026 allocation. Committee Chair Said Abdullah stated the reduction is based on service unit calculations and a post-evaluation adjustment of beneficiaries, not a quality cut. The final figure will be determined in September during the state budget approval, with the Finance Minister and State Secretary confirming the plan follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive to improve governance.

Vietnam Launches Crackdown on Counterfeit Industry Under US Pressure

Vietnam has intensified its crackdown on the counterfeit goods industry following pressure from the United States, which labelled the country a 'priority foreign country' for intellectual property violations. The government has launched a national operation targeting fake goods and digital piracy, resulting in over 1,400 cases handled in just three weeks. While local fashion designers welcome the move, some consumers and experts argue that high demand for cheaper alternatives will sustain the illicit trade.

Police investigate car fire at South Tangerang petrol station

A Toyota Kijang minibus caught fire shortly after refuelling at a petrol station in Ciputat Timur, South Tangerang, on Monday morning. The driver suffered burns over most of his body and was evacuated for medical treatment. Police have secured the scene and are investigating the cause of the blaze.

50 Principal Positions in Mataram Remain Vacant, Here's Why

More than 50 primary and junior secondary schools in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, are without permanent head teachers due to complications with a centralised appointment system. The local education agency is delaying nominations over concerns that current acting principals would lose their professional certification and income if moved to supervisory roles. Despite the leadership vacuum, officials have assured that teaching and learning activities continue as normal.

Defence Minister Ensures Kogabwilhan III is Ready to Safeguard Eastern Indonesia

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has inspected the facilities of the Joint Regional Defence Command III (Kogabwilhan III) in Timika, Papua, to confirm its operational readiness. The command plays a strategic role in integrating the army, navy, and air force to respond to threats in the region. The visit underscores the government's focus on maintaining sovereignty and security in eastern Indonesia.

Langkat Regent Arrested by KPK, Bobby Appoints Deputy Regent as Acting Regent

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has appointed Deputy Regent Tiorita Br Surbakti as acting head of Langkat Regency following the arrest of Regent Syah Afandin in a corruption sting. The move, coordinated with the Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to prevent a leadership vacuum and ensure public services continue uninterrupted. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) detained Syah Afandin for allegedly accepting Rp800 million in bribes related to education and housing projects.

KB Bank Issues Right of Reply on Report of Hundreds of Layoffs

PT Bank KB Indonesia (KB Bank) has issued a right of reply regarding a news report about mass layoffs, clarifying that the workforce optimisation is part of a planned, long-term transformation strategy. The bank stated the process complies with prevailing laws and regulations and has been coordinated with regulators and the Manpower Office. KB Bank emphasised that its operations and customer services remain normal as it continues to strengthen its digital capabilities.

Indonesia's $1.8 Billion Bond Auction Seen Drawing Strong Demand as Yields Rise

Indonesia's upcoming Rp 32 trillion bond auction is expected to attract robust demand, buoyed by higher yields and a strengthening rupiah. However, sustained foreign interest hinges on currency stability and fiscal credibility, with investors likely favouring short- and medium-term tenors amid global uncertainty.

Govt supports Pindad expands ammunition plants nationwide

The Indonesian government is backing state-owned arms manufacturer PT Pindad's plan to build ammunition factories across major islands to decentralise defence logistics and speed up distribution to military units. The expansion, including a new 30-hectare facility in South Kalimantan, aims to bolster domestic production capacity and reduce reliance on foreign supplies. This strategic move is expected to strengthen both PT Pindad's self-reliance and the nation's overall defence capabilities.

Misery in Tasikmalaya: A Single Tanker Fleet Forced to Quench the Thirst of Thousands

A prolonged drought in Tasikmalaya Regency, West Java, has triggered a severe clean water crisis, leaving thousands of families dependent on a single water tanker truck from the local disaster mitigation agency. The agency has been requesting five additional tankers from the provincial and central government since January 2026, but bureaucratic approval has yet to materialise. With the dry season predicted to continue, the lone fleet is operating around the clock, struggling to reach remote, hilly areas and leaving many residents waiting desperately for relief.

Eastern Indonesia's Sago and Tuber Consumption Declines as Rice Expands

Traditional staple foods like sago and tubers are gradually being abandoned in Eastern Indonesia, with per capita tuber consumption falling to 11.602 kg in 2025. This dietary shift coincides with the government's push to develop large-scale rice farming in regions like Merauke, Papua, which is being positioned as a new national food hub.

Transjakarta Subscription Scheme at Rp200,000 per Month Considered a Cost-Saving Solution

A proposed monthly subscription scheme for Transjakarta services at Rp200,000 is being touted as an economical alternative for daily commuters. The plan, suggested by the Jakarta Transportation Council, would offer a 20 per cent discount compared to paying the proposed new regular fare of Rp5,000 per trip. It is designed to ease the financial burden on workers who rely on the bus rapid transit system for their daily commute.

Draft Submitted to DPR, Said Iqbal Urges Acceleration of New Manpower Bill Deliberation

Labour coalition KSP-PB has urged the government and the House of Representatives to expedite the deliberation of a new Manpower Bill, following the submission of a draft concept. The bill is mandated by a Constitutional Court ruling and must be enacted by October 2026. The coalition's proposal seeks to broaden the legal definition of workers to include digital platform, media, and creative sector employees.

Unair Research Reveals Safety Aspects of Gallon Use in the Bottled Water Industry

Research from Universitas Airlangga has found no significant link between consuming water from polycarbonate (PC) gallons and hormone disruption, reproductive issues, or cancer. The study analysed Bisphenol A (BPA) levels across 10 popular bottled water brands, concluding that all samples were well within safety limits set by Indonesia's Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) and the European Food Safety Authority. Researchers advised consumers to remain calm but to store and handle PC gallons properly to further minimise any potential migration.

Geological Agency Debunks Viral Video of Anak Krakatau Eruption as Hoax

Indonesia's Geological Agency has confirmed that a viral video claiming to show a recent eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau is a hoax. The agency clarified that while the volcano remains active with low-energy magmatic activity, the footage does not depict current conditions. Officials urged the public to rely solely on official channels for information and reiterated that the current exclusion zone remains a 3-kilometre radius from the crater.

UIN Jakarta Opens Batch 2 Registration for Islamic Banking Doctoral Programme, Now an LPDP Scholarship Destination

UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has opened the second batch of registrations for its Doctoral Programme in Islamic Banking for the 2026/2027 academic year. The programme has been designated as a destination for the LPDP Batch 2 scholarship, broadening access for academics and professionals with government funding support. This recognition follows the programme's attainment of an 'Unggul' (Excellent) accreditation from LAMEMBA.

House Budget Committee: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Budget to Be Reduced to Rp 174 Trillion in 2027

The House of Representatives' Budget Committee has indicated that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme will be cut to Rp 174 trillion in 2027, down from Rp 268 trillion. The reduction is linked to a planned decrease in the number of service fulfilment units from 27,000 to 21,000 locations. Officials stress that maintaining food quality for beneficiaries remains the priority despite the budget efficiency measures.

KPK Searches Home of Kuansing Plantation Agency Head in Forest Area Release Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has searched the residence of the Head of the Kuantan Singingi Plantation Agency as part of an expanding investigation into bribery related to forest area release permits. The probe stems from a previous case involving the district head and regional secretary, with investigators now tracing funds allegedly collected from oil palm cooperative members. The Forestry Minister has denied involvement and pledged cooperation with the investigation.

Police Receive Award from Hajj Ministry for Securing 2026 Pilgrimage

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has been honoured by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for its pivotal role in safeguarding the 2026 Hajj season. The award recognises the force's contributions to inter-agency coordination, maintaining public order, and enforcing laws against illegal pilgrimage operators. Police officials described the accolade as a mandate to further enhance public service and cross-sector collaboration for future Hajj operations.

Court Rejects Asrul Azis's Pretrial Motion, Corruption Suspect Status in Hajj Quota Case Upheld

The South Jakarta District Court has dismissed a pretrial motion filed by Asrul Azis Taba, chairman of the Kesthuri hajj and umrah travel association, challenging his designation as a suspect. The judge ruled that the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) possessed sufficient valid evidence, including documents and electronic data, to formally name him a suspect in the alleged corruption of hajj quotas. The court also rejected arguments that his advanced age should preclude his detention, stating that special provisions for elderly suspects must still be applied.

ASITA: Lamaholot Festival Strengthens Sustainable Tourism in NTT

The Lamaholot Festival in Lembata, East Nusa Tenggara, is being positioned as a key driver for community-based sustainable tourism, aligning with global travel trends. The event, part of the national Karisma Event Nusantara 2026 programme, will showcase cultural attractions and environmental initiatives like mangrove planting to provide authentic experiences. ASITA NTT is committed to collaborating with stakeholders to market these sustainable tourism products and attract travel agents with matching market segments.

West Java DPRD Gives Green Light to Explore Renaming Province to Tatar Sunda

The West Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) has agreed to advance a proposal to rename the province 'Tatar Sunda' to the formal legislative process. Lawmakers argue the change is urgent to preserve the fading cultural identity of the Sundanese people. The decision initiates a comprehensive academic study and further legislative stages before any final approval is granted.

KAI Apologises for Discomfort at Level Crossing in Padang

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has apologised for the hazardous conditions at a level crossing in Lubuk Buaya, Padang, which becomes slippery during rain. The company is coordinating with stakeholders to accelerate improvements and enhance safety. Road users, particularly motorcyclists, are urged to exercise extreme caution when crossing the railway line.

National Police Traffic Corps Chief Leads Handover, Stresses Cohesion and Resilience

The Chief of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps, Inspector General Wibowo, presided over the installation and handover of several key officials in Jakarta. He urged the newly appointed officers to carry out their duties with sincerity and to prioritise collaboration. Wibowo also invoked the cassava plant as a metaphor for the simplicity, adaptability, and toughness required of the corps.

PFII Bill Proposes 0% Income Tax for Investors: How Does It Compare to Other Countries?

Indonesia's draft International Financial Centre (PFII) Bill proposes a 0% income tax rate for investors and experts to boost competitiveness against hubs like Dubai. The bill outlines extensive tax facilities, including a 100% corporate income tax reduction and VAT exemptions for financial sector activities. Academics argue such incentives are crucial to attract investment to the proposed centre.

Ferry Irwandi Testifies as Mitigating Witness in Text Overlay Case Linked to Protest

Social media activist Ferry Irwandi testified as a mitigating witness for defendant Khariq Anhar, stating his participation in the August 2025 demonstrations was a personal choice and not influenced by Anhar's edited posts. Irwandi argued that text overlay memes are a common form of cultural expression on the internet and not inherently illegal or defamatory. Anhar is facing charges for editing a screenshot of a statement by labour leader Said Iqbal, which prosecutors claim turned a positive message into a provocative one.

KP2MI Strengthens Competency of Indonesian Migrant Worker Candidates for South Korean Job Market

Indonesia's Ministry for the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) is enhancing the technical skills, language proficiency, and mental readiness of prospective migrant workers to compete in South Korea's labour market. A skill test for the fisheries sector under the G-to-G programme was held in Semarang, attracting 1,063 participants from 20 provinces. Officials stressed that continuous learning is vital as candidates will face competition from workers of 16 other nations.

TikTok-Tokopedia Denies Mass Layoffs

TikTok and Tokopedia Group have denied reports of mass layoffs in Indonesia, stating they are instead undertaking internal restructuring and mobility. The company also announced it is currently recruiting for over 100 positions in the country. The government is seeking a complete picture of the situation before taking further action.

92 Chinese Nationals in Online Fraud Syndicate Deported, Permanently Banned from Indonesia

Indonesian immigration authorities have deported 92 Chinese nationals involved in an online fraud and gambling syndicate in Batam. The individuals were flown out via Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and have been placed on a permanent entry blacklist. The Directorate General of Immigration stated the action aims to deter transnational crime and uphold security without exception.

Cyber Scam Losses in East and Southeast Asia Reach USD 37 Billion

A UNODC study reveals financial losses from cyber scams in East and Southeast Asia have hit USD 37 billion, with Southeast Asia emerging as an industrial-scale operations hub. The impact is now being felt in Indonesia, where one in four consumers report losing money to fraud. Authorities are urged to prioritise prevention and cross-border collaboration to protect the financial system.

Transport observer supports DTKJ proposal for Jaklingko fare

A transport observer has backed a proposal by the Jakarta City Transport Council to end free fares on the Mikrotrans or Jaklingko service, suggesting a Rp2,000 charge. The move is seen as a way to educate the public on valuing public transport and to ensure more accurate passenger data by preventing manipulation. The council's chairman argued that a paid system would eliminate the practice of operators falsifying ridership figures to meet contractual targets.

Komnas HAM urges humanitarian dialogue to end Papua conflict

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has called for humanitarian dialogue involving all stakeholders to halt the armed conflict in Papua, following a series of deadly incidents in Intan Jaya and Yahukimo. The commission stressed the need for professional and impartial law enforcement to ensure justice for civilian victims. The government has granted Komnas HAM access to conduct independent investigations into the recent violence.

Prabowo to Singapore PM: If There Are Misunderstandings, We Will Resolve Them

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Singapore, emphasising shared interests in regional stability and prosperity. Speaking alongside Singaporean PM Lawrence Wong, Prabowo stressed that peace and stability are prerequisites for prosperity and require continuous effort. Both leaders agreed to resolve any future misunderstandings openly and amicably.

Slowly Rebounding, Has the JCI Touched Bottom?

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) is showing signs of a technical rebound, but a sustainable recovery remains uncertain. Key headwinds include persistent foreign outflows, a recent trade deficit, and a high BI Rate, which continue to pressure market sentiment. While blue-chip valuations are now attractively cheap, analysts suggest a catalyst is needed before a definitive uptrend can be confirmed.

Ebola death toll in DR Congo surpasses 500

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has claimed more than 500 lives, with over 1,500 confirmed cases recorded. Weekly confirmed cases have reached their highest levels since the outbreak began, indicating ongoing community transmission. A clinical trial has commenced in Ituri province to evaluate treatments for the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, for which no approved vaccine currently exists.

US Heatwave Kills 25, Extreme Temperatures Grip Nation

A severe heatwave across the United States has claimed at least 25 lives, with New Jersey reporting the majority of fatalities. Over 40 million people remain under extreme heat alerts as temperatures soar past 37 degrees Celsius in major East Coast cities. The dangerous conditions are expected to persist into midweek, accompanied by severe thunderstorms and flash flood warnings for millions more.

Government Grants Komnas HAM Access to Investigate Intan Jaya Civilian Deaths

The Indonesian government has pledged to grant the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) full access to independently investigate the deaths of civilians, including a pregnant woman, during an armed clash in Intan Jaya, Central Papua. Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated the move is part of ensuring an objective legal process alongside an internal military investigation. The incident is part of a broader escalation of violence in the Papua region, which has also seen the fatal shooting of a foreign pilot and the burning of an aircraft.

TNI awards extraordinary promotions to 23 personnel for dedication in Papua

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has granted extraordinary promotions to 23 personnel for their dedicated service in safeguarding national sovereignty in Papua. The ceremony took place at the 754/ENK Infantry Battalion headquarters in Timika, Central Papua. TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto also inspected a new modern command and administration centre intended to bolster unit readiness.

Global Chip Crisis Hits Indonesia: Affordable Chinese Phones Suddenly Become Expensive

The global memory chip shortage is driving up smartphone prices in Indonesia, with Oppo's latest Reno 16 series launching at prices up to Rp 3 million higher than its predecessors. The crisis, exacerbated by a weakening rupiah and the AI industry's prioritisation of high-performance chips, is forcing manufacturers to either raise prices or cut features, particularly impacting the low-end segment that dominates the Asia-Pacific market.

Labour Unions to Visit Tokopedia Office, Demand Clarity on Rights of 1,250 Laid-Off Employees

A coalition of labour unions and the Labour Party plans to visit Tokopedia's office in Jakarta to demand clarity on the severance rights of 1,250 employees affected by layoffs. The union president, Said Iqbal, insists that TikTok, as the acquiring entity, must ensure all outstanding salaries and severance payments are made. The action highlights growing concerns over worker protections following major corporate restructuring in Indonesia's tech sector.

Sahroni Urges NTT Police to Take Firm Action Against Intimidation Suspects in Doctor Icha's Death

Ahmad Sahroni, Deputy Chairman of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has called on the East Nusa Tenggara Police to thoroughly investigate and take firm action against individuals accused of intimidating a doctor prior to her death. The family of Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Doctor Icha, has filed a report against four people, including three regional councillors, alleging intimidation occurred while she was on duty. Sahroni stressed that the case sets a dangerous precedent and that medical professionals must be allowed to work based on standard procedures without pressure.

Indonesia's carbon trade economic value could reach Rp5 trillion, says minister

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has stated that Indonesia's carbon trade could generate an economic value of up to Rp5 trillion if managed properly. The initial phase involves four projects with the potential to save 30 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent. The minister emphasised that good forest governance is crucial for making the green economy a new engine of national growth.

Singapore and Indonesia to collaborate on carbon credits, cross-border trade for SMEs

Singapore and Indonesia have agreed to deepen economic cooperation through a new carbon credits memorandum of understanding and initiatives to help Indonesian SMEs trade across borders. The agreement, signed during a leaders' retreat in Jakarta, also includes a roadmap for cross-border electricity trade involving Indonesia's Danantara fund and Singaporean energy firms. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasised Singapore's confidence in Indonesia's future, highlighting the partnership's potential to boost regional competitiveness and resilience.

DIY High Prosecutor's Office Reveals Identity of Village Land Lessee in Sleman Ex-Village Chief Corruption Case

The Yogyakarta High Prosecutor's Office has identified the lessee of a misused village treasury land plot in Sleman as the now-defunct company PT Gunung Samudra Tirtomas. The former Condongcatur village chief and another official allegedly rented the 1,221-square-metre plot without the governor's permission, causing state losses of over Rp 4.2 billion. The land, which contains an abandoned boarding house built by the lessee, was leased in violation of regional regulations governing the use of Sultanate and village lands.

UIN Jakarta Assures Triguna Teachers of Job Security as School Governance Shifts to BLU System

UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta has confirmed that the integration of SMA and SMK Triguna Utama into its Public Service Agency (BLU) framework will not affect the employment status of teachers and staff. The transition is aimed solely at enhancing the professionalism, transparency, and accountability of school management. The university's rector emphasised that the change involves governance and oversight mechanisms, not the teaching profession itself.

House Budget Committee Chair Says Regional Transfer Funds Won't Fall in 2027

The chairman of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Budget Committee, Said Abdullah, has dismissed claims that regional transfer funds (TKD) will decrease in 2027, projecting the allocation to be between 2.55 and 2.79 percent of GDP. His statement counters earlier remarks by a House deputy chair who warned that a potential drop to Rp600 trillion could disrupt civil service salaries and public services. The final figure will be announced by the president in August 2026.

40-Year Mortgage Tenor Could Smooth Path for 3 Million Homes Programme, With Caveats

Extending mortgage tenors to 40 years is seen as a key enabler for Indonesia's ambitious three million homes programme by making monthly instalments more affordable for low-income earners. The Real Estate Indonesia (REI) chapter in Jambi has welcomed the policy but stressed that its success hinges on faster bank approvals, simpler administration, and recognition of pension income. The Jambi Governor also called for flexible interest rates to accommodate borrowers facing economic hardship.

Encouraging state-owned banks to become the locomotive of national investment

President Prabowo Subianto has directed state-owned banks to act as strategic instruments for accelerating economic growth, not merely profit-driven entities. The directive signals a paradigm shift, urging the banks to measure success by their contribution to expanding business opportunities, promoting equity, and driving productive economic activity. This approach positions the banking sector as a key driver in national transformation, including industrialisation, resource downstreaming, and the energy transition.

Summoned by Dasco, TikTok Denies Mass Layoffs at Tokopedia: Only Workforce Restructuring

TikTok has denied reports of mass layoffs at Tokopedia following a summons from Indonesia's Deputy House Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad. The company described the changes as workforce restructuring and internal mobility, though some employees have opted for compensation packages. The meeting with the Manpower Minister aimed to clarify the situation at the e-commerce firm acquired by TikTok.

Academic reveals challenges in publishing and documenting Balinese culture

A leading academic has highlighted the crucial role of the media in archiving Bali's cultural evolution, warning that without journalistic records, key events like the Bali Arts Festival would be lost to history. He urged art groups to seek corporate sponsorship and government support to strengthen cultural documentation. The call was echoed by press officials, who stressed the need for deeper intellectual documentation beyond mere event coverage.

House Budget Committee Chair Rejects Proposal to Raise Regional Heads' Salaries

Said Abdullah, Chair of the House Budget Committee, has rejected a proposal to increase the financial entitlements of regional heads, arguing it would strain the state budget. The proposal, put forward by the Chair of House Commission II, aimed to curb corruption by raising salaries, which are currently considered low relative to political costs. Said urged the government to prioritise maintaining fiscal stability and inclusive economic growth instead.

Dasco Clarifies Intent Behind Birthday Greeting Post for Nadiem

House Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad has clarified that his Instagram birthday greeting to former minister Nadiem Makarim was a routine practice by his new social media admin, not a political signal. The post drew scrutiny as it came shortly after Nadiem was sentenced to 10 years in prison for corruption. Dasco denied any connection between the greeting and potential amnesty or abolition for the convicted former official.

Despite Social Media Backlash, BPS Says Majority of Citizens Accept Census Officers

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has stated that the majority of the public are welcoming officers conducting the 2026 Economic Census, despite a wave of rejection posts on social media. The agency noted that those who refuse are more vocal online, creating a false perception of widespread opposition. BPS is intensifying public education and collaborating with local officials to ensure the smooth running of the data collection, which is crucial for development policy.

MMIX's New Factory Secures OEM Orders Immediately After Soft Opening

PT Multi Medika Internasional Tbk (MMIX) has received its first original equipment manufacturer (OEM) orders just a day after the soft opening of its new hygiene products facility in Tangerang. The early demand signals strong industry need for high-standard manufacturing in Indonesia, supporting the company's strategic shift from a distributor to an integrated FMCG manufacturer. The plant, operated by a joint venture with Fujian Nice Paper Co., is projected to significantly boost MMIX's production capacity and long-term profitability.

US Urges European NATO Members to Increase Defence Budgets for Burden Sharing

The United States is pressuring European NATO members to raise their defence spending as part of a more proportional burden-sharing arrangement. The demand, described as a continuation of policies under previous administrations, is driven by domestic economic pressures and a strategic pivot to the Asia-Pacific. European governments face significant domestic challenges in implementing these increases due to public debt and austerity measures.

Rupiah Closes Weaker, US Dollar Parks at Rp17,985

The Indonesian rupiah weakened by 0.22% to close at Rp17,985 per US dollar on Monday, pressured by a strengthening greenback. The depreciation comes amid concerns over Indonesia's trade balance, which recorded a US$1.61 billion deficit in May, ending a 72-month surplus streak.

Police to implement situational traffic management during Indian PM's visit

Jakarta police will enforce temporary traffic controls and escorts on major thoroughfares from 6 to 8 July 2026 during the state visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The measures are situational and will not involve total road closures, only applying when the official convoy passes. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes to avoid congestion.

Police Design New 2027 Education Curriculum: AI, Big Data, and Human Rights-Based

The Indonesian National Police are undertaking a major overhaul of their education system, with a redesigned curriculum set for implementation in 2027. The new syllabus will incorporate human rights principles, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics to modernise training. The initiative aims to produce a more professional, adaptive, and integrity-driven police force in line with recent legal mandates.

MBG Programme Budget for 2027 Slashed to Rp174 Trillion

The Indonesian House of Representatives has indicated that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme will be significantly reduced to approximately Rp174 trillion in 2027. The revision accounts for an estimated 21,000 service points and a target of 84 million student beneficiaries. Officials have assured that the budget cut will not compromise the quality or governance of the nutritional programme.

World Population Day 11 July 2026: History, Meaning, and How to Celebrate

World Population Day is observed annually on 11 July to raise awareness of population issues linked to sustainable development, health, and human rights. The observance traces its origins to the 'Five Billion Day' on 11 July 1987, when the global population was estimated to have reached five billion. The United Nations encourages public participation through educational events, social media campaigns, and support for reproductive health and gender equality initiatives.

Expert Highlights Indonesia's Absence of Special Delegation at Khamenei's Funeral

An international law expert has criticised Indonesia's decision not to send a special delegation to the funeral of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, arguing it could undermine the country's long-standing 'free and active' foreign policy. Professor Hikmahanto Juwana suggested that the absence might be perceived as Indonesia taking sides in the Middle East conflict, despite Iran being the aggrieved party. Indonesia was represented at the funeral by its Ambassador to Tehran, while dozens of other nations sent special delegations.

DPD's Papua committee sets focus on Papuan safety, well-being

The Regional Representative Council's (DPD) newly formed Papua committee has outlined its priorities, concentrating on security issues, alleged human rights violations, and controversies surrounding National Strategic Projects. The committee aims to draft comprehensive policy recommendations by engaging stakeholders and conducting field advocacy, following a series of violent incidents including the fatal shooting of an American pilot. It also intends to address the plight of displaced persons and the broader anxieties of the Papuan people regarding neglected rights.

BPS Assures 2026 Economic Census Data Will Not Be Used for Tax or Audit Purposes

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) has guaranteed that data collected during the 2026 Economic Census will be strictly used for statistical purposes and not for tax assessment, business audits, or law enforcement. The agency emphasised that individual respondent data is protected by law and secured with layered systems meeting ISO 27001 standards. BPS is intensifying public education efforts to counter misinformation and encourage honest participation to ensure accurate policy formulation.

Central Lombok DPRD Urges Local Government to Find Solutions for Idle Assets

The Central Lombok Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) has called on the local government to creatively manage three idle buildings near the Zainuddin Abdul Majid International Airport, built with billions of rupiah in public funds. The abandoned assets include a swiftlet nest processing centre, an Integrated Business Service Centre (PLUT), and the Indonesian Pearl House (RMI), which have fallen into disuse due to poor promotion and minimal public engagement. Legislators are urging the regional asset management agency to repurpose the facilities for training or other public services to prevent further waste of taxpayer money.

Police to Implement Traffic Diversions During Indian PM's Visit to Jakarta, 6-8 July

Jakarta police have announced traffic management measures for the state visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi from 6 to 8 July. Motorists are advised to anticipate delays and use alternative routes as twelve major thoroughfares will be subject to temporary closures. The closures will only be enforced when the official convoy passes through the affected roads.

Dasco Speaks Out on Birthday Greeting Post for Nadiem on Instagram

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has clarified that a birthday greeting for former minister Nadiem Makarim on his Instagram account was simply a routine post by his new social media administrator. He dismissed speculation that the message carried any hidden political meaning. Dasco indicated that similar birthday greetings for public figures would become a regular feature on his account.

DPR Holds Meeting with TikTok to Address Employee Layoff Issue

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) facilitated a meeting between TikTok representatives and the Ministry of Manpower to clarify reports of mass layoffs. TikTok, which acquired Tokopedia, stated that the layoffs are part of an internal restructuring, not a complete termination of employment. The company denied reports of 1,250 employees being laid off, claiming only around 200 employees opted for a compensation package.

East Jakarta City Government Ensures Traditional Market Food is Free from Hazardous Substances

The East Jakarta City Government has confirmed that food products in five traditional markets are safe for consumption after testing found no hazardous chemicals. The inspection, carried out by the Food Security, Marine, and Agriculture Sub-agency, involved testing 48 samples from both agricultural and livestock products. The initiative aims to boost public confidence in the safety of goods sold by local traders.

LPEM FEB UI Questions Effectiveness of Government's Rp381 Trillion Liquidity Injection for MSMEs

The University of Indonesia's Institute for Economic and Social Research (LPEM FEB UI) has cast doubt on the effectiveness of the government's plan to inject Rp381 trillion in liquidity into state-owned banks to boost lending. The institute argues that the funds will not automatically flow to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) due to persistent risks and structural barriers. The government maintains the placement is necessary to sustain high credit growth amid strong loan demand.

Nadiem Makarim's Legal Team Reports Four Corruption Court Judges to Judicial Commission Over Alleged Ethics Violations

The legal team representing former Indonesian minister Nadiem Makarim has filed a report with the Judicial Commission against four Jakarta Corruption Court judges. The report alleges ethical violations, including the manipulation of trial facts, in the ruling on a Chromebook procurement corruption case. The team also questioned the appointment of the presiding judge, who had reportedly received a prior sanction barring him from handling court cases.

Said Iqbal to Confront TikTok Over Alleged Mass Layoffs at Tokopedia

Presidential adviser Said Iqbal plans to visit TikTok's Jakarta office to demand answers over the alleged dismissal of 90% of Tokopedia's workforce. He warned of potential legal action under ILO Convention 193 if the layoffs are confirmed. Meanwhile, GoTo stated that any restructuring at Tokopedia would have a limited financial impact on the company due to its reduced stake.

South Kalimantan Declares 2026 Forest and Land Fire Emergency Status Due to El Niño

South Kalimantan Governor Muhidin has officially declared a provincial-level emergency alert status for forest and land fires in 2026. The decision responds to dry conditions caused by El Niño and a significant rise in hotspots, with 1,777 recorded across the region. Authorities are mobilising personnel, activating community fire prevention groups, and intensifying patrols to prevent the fires from spreading further.

Unair Research: Reusable Gallon Water Does Not Trigger Hormonal Disorders or Cancer

A study by Universitas Airlangga has found no link between consuming water from reusable polycarbonate gallons and hormonal disorders, reproductive issues, or cancer risk. The research detected Bisphenol A (BPA) in all tested brands, but at levels far below safety thresholds set by Indonesia's BPOM and the European Food Safety Authority. Experts also confirmed that the human body naturally detoxifies and excretes any ingested BPA.

Ships Banned from Sailing Near Mount Anak Krakatau

Indonesian authorities have prohibited vessels from approaching within a five-kilometre radius of Mount Anak Krakatau following an increase in volcanic activity. The alert status for the volcano, located in the Sunda Strait, has been raised to Level III (Siaga). Officials confirmed that while the restriction is in place, the main Bakauheni-Merak ferry crossing remains unaffected and is operating normally.

SPK Alleges Pressure on Unair Lecturer After Testifying at Constitutional Court

The Campus Workers Union (SPK) claims a lecturer at Airlangga University has faced doxing and psychological pressure after testifying about lecturer salaries at the Constitutional Court. The union also alleges the academic has been sidelined, with her research and teaching contributions excluded from performance assessments. The university has previously disputed claims of low lecturer pay, stating total remuneration is higher when all components are included.

Bioethanol Price Officially Raised to Rp10,933/Litre, Effective July 2026

The Indonesian government has set the new Market Index Price for bioethanol at Rp10,933 per litre for July 2026, a significant increase from the previous month. This price adjustment comes as the country prepares to implement a mandatory 20% bioethanol blend in petrol by 2028, aiming to reduce fuel imports and bolster national energy security. The policy is inspired by the success of the biodiesel programme and international models like Brazil's extensive use of ethanol.

Three Police Officers Killed in Drug Raid in Katingan, Central Kalimantan: Kompolnas Responds

Three Indonesian police officers were killed during a drug raid in Katingan Regency, Central Kalimantan. The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has called for a thorough investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators. Local government officials have pledged support for the police's ongoing anti-narcotics operations.

National Police Chief Calls for Unity and National Cohesion at Persis Brigade Training Event

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has urged the Islamic Union (Persis) Brigade to help maintain national unity and support government programmes. Speaking at the closing of a national basic training event in Bogor, he highlighted the importance of synergy between the police, community organisations, and the public to ensure security and achieve the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Netanyahu Denies Rumours Trump Limited Israeli Strikes in Lebanon

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed reports that US President Donald Trump restricted Israeli military operations in Lebanon as 'fake news'. The denial contradicts an earlier Israeli public broadcaster report suggesting Israel sought Washington's approval for action against alleged Hezbollah tunnels. The development comes amid a US-mediated framework agreement signed in June aimed at ending Israel's occupation of Lebanese territory.

Government Allocates Rp26.3 Trillion for Construction of 100 'Sekolah Rakyat' Next Year

The Indonesian government has earmarked Rp26.3 trillion from the 2027 budget to build 100 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) as part of a push to improve access to education. The funding, managed by the Directorate General of Strategic Infrastructure, represents the largest portion of its indicative budget ceiling, which also includes allocations for religious school revitalisation and post-disaster rehabilitation. Officials noted that the total budget requirement for the directorate is Rp50.876 trillion, meaning the current indicative ceiling of Rp31.533 trillion covers only 62% of its needs.

KAI Posts Rp2.28 Trillion Profit in 2025, Operating Cash Flow Reaches Rp7.15 Trillion

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reported a consolidated net profit of Rp2.28 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year, a 2.77% increase from the previous year. The state-owned railway operator's performance was bolstered by a 10.35% rise in operating profit and a 36.43% surge in operating cash flow to Rp7.15 trillion. KAI emphasised that the healthy financial results strengthen its capacity to maintain safety, service quality, and operational readiness for the 503.5 million passengers and 69.8 million tonnes of freight it served during the year.

92 Chinese Nationals Deported for Online Gambling and Investment Fraud Syndicate

Indonesian immigration authorities have deported 92 Chinese nationals involved in an online gambling and investment fraud syndicate operating in Batam. The mass deportation, carried out at the request of Chinese authorities, also resulted in lifetime entry bans for the individuals. The operation underscores Indonesia's commitment to combating transnational crime and enforcing immigration laws without exception.

2025 Profit Only Rp 2.7 Billion, Agrinas Boss Explains

PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara reported a modest profit of Rp 2.7 billion for 2025, with its president director attributing the figure to the company's origins as a 'karya' enterprise. Management is currently focused on restructuring the organisation and filling key management positions by July. Despite performance lagging behind targets in the first half, the company is optimistic it will exceed its annual goals by August.

Telkom Completes Streamlining of 10 Entities to Accelerate Transformation

PT Telkom Indonesia has completed the streamlining of 10 subsidiaries by the first half of 2026, aligning with a state-owned enterprise mandate from Danantara Asset Management. The restructuring, involving divestments, mergers, and liquidations, aims to create a leaner structure and sharpen the company's focus on core telecommunications and digital businesses. This move is part of Telkom's broader strategy to transition from an operating holding to a strategic holding company model.

Gowa Regent on Inquiry into Alleged Abuse of Authority: Civil Servants Are Uncomfortable

Gowa Regent Husniah Talenrang has stated that civil servants in her region are feeling uneasy due to the uproar surrounding a DPRD inquiry. The investigation concerns allegations of authority misuse in revoking doctoral scholarships, irregularities in free school uniform procurement, and other misconduct. The regent urged the public to await the special committee's findings and not be provoked by parties seeking to create unrest.

PUI Backs Presidential Regulation on National Defence Policy, Highlights LGBTQ Issue

The Indonesian Islamic Union (PUI) has endorsed Presidential Regulation No. 111 of 2025, which classifies the spread of LGBTQ culture as a non-military threat. The organisation argues that national resilience depends on moral fortitude, family values, and education. Meanwhile, the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) is preparing an academic paper and a draft bill to criminalise LGBTQ behaviour, with the House of Representatives indicating openness to the proposal.

BPBD prioritises forest fire handling near Sampit Airport

The Regional Disaster Management Agency in East Kotawaringin, Central Kalimantan, is prioritising the rapid containment of forest and land fires in areas near Sampit's Haji Asan Airport. The Baamang Hulu area is considered high-risk due to its proximity to the vital aviation facility. Authorities have confirmed that flight operations remain unaffected despite approximately 11 hectares of land fires across three sub-districts.

The Secret of Turkey's Strength

Turkey's Ambassador to Indonesia, Prof. Dr. Talip Küçükcan, discusses Ankara's perspective on Middle Eastern conflicts and its active role as a global mediator. He also addresses the perceived risks of the 'Greater Israel' concept for the region. The interview covers a wide range of topics including the war in Gaza, UN reform, and the historical ties between the Ottoman Empire and the Indonesian archipelago.

Dasco Brings Together TikTok Representatives and Manpower Minister to Clarify Layoff Issue

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, facilitated a meeting between TikTok representatives and the Manpower Minister to address viral social media reports of layoffs within the TikTok-Tokopedia business group. The company's executive director clarified that no terminations had occurred, describing the changes as a workforce restructuring and internal mobility programme. The group is simultaneously recruiting for over 100 positions in Indonesia.

Ministry of Defence supports munitions factory construction on Indonesia's major islands

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence is backing PT Pindad's plan to build munitions factories on every major island to decentralise defence logistics. The initiative aims to enable rapid production and distribution of munitions to military units nationwide while bolstering the state-owned enterprise's self-sufficiency. The latest facility is being developed on 30 hectares in Batulicin, South Kalimantan, following strategic and technical assessments.

TikTok Shop-Tokopedia Boss Denies Layoffs, Claims 100 New Hires

The executive director of Tokopedia and TikTok Shop Indonesia has refuted reports of mass layoffs, stating the company is instead undergoing a workforce restructuring and internal mobility programme. Stephanie Susilo told lawmakers that no employment terminations had occurred, while confirming that over 100 new positions are currently being recruited. The denial follows earlier reports suggesting up to 90 percent of Tokopedia's pre-acquisition workforce had been let go.

Police Prepare Traffic Diversions on 12 Jakarta Roads for Indian PM's Visit

Jakarta police have announced temporary traffic diversions across 12 major thoroughfares to facilitate the state visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The traffic management measures, effective from 6 to 8 July 2026, will be implemented situationally as the official convoy passes. Motorists are advised to plan alternative routes and follow directions from officers on the ground.

Activists Burn Israeli Flag, Urge Distance from Israel During US 250th Independence Anniversary

Activists and political figures in the United States used the 250th Independence Day celebrations to protest American ties with Israel. Demonstrators burned Israeli flags and called for a 'declaration of independence' from Israeli influence over Washington's policies. The protests highlighted growing criticism of the pro-Israel lobby's role in US domestic politics.

The Future of Our Local Shops Amidst the Onslaught of Algorithms and the Shadow of Online Loans

A student group from Universitas Muhammadiyah Palopo warns that small traders, who dominate the local market share, are increasingly threatened not just by modern retail chains but by illegal online loans and gambling. They argue that limited access to ethical financing is pushing these traders into the arms of digital loan sharks, and propose leveraging fintech for fair microfinancing solutions rooted in Islamic economic principles.

IDX Launches SBSN Repo Trading via SPPA to Boost Sharia Market Liquidity

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has introduced a repo transaction feature for government sharia securities (SBSN) through its Alternative Market Organiser System (SPPA). The initiative, developed with the Ministry of Finance, aims to catalyse secondary market liquidity, as interdealer SBSN repo transactions remain below IDR 1 trillion compared to over IDR 2,500 trillion for conventional government bonds. The move is part of broader efforts to deepen Indonesia's financial market infrastructure and strengthen the national sharia financial ecosystem.

ANTM Becomes Key Player in Nickel Downstreaming, Business Prospects Brighten

State-owned mining company PT ANTAM is advancing Indonesia's energy transition through significant nickel downstreaming projects. The company's integrated electric vehicle battery ecosystem in Karawang is 90% complete and set for commercial operation by July 2026, while its 2025 nickel ore production surged 62% to a decade-high.

28 Residents Remain in Shelters as Toxic Smoke from Jatiwaringin Landfill Fire Persists

Twenty-eight residents of Tanjakan Mekar village in Tangerang Regency, mostly women, children, and the elderly, have been living in a temporary shelter for a week due to toxic smoke from the Jatiwaringin landfill fire. Authorities report that the blaze, which has scorched 18 hectares, is nearly extinguished, with only 3.6 percent of the affected area still burning. Medical teams continue to monitor evacuees for respiratory illnesses while logistical support flows from local and national agencies.

Fulan Fehan Festival: Cultural Harmony on the Border Savannah

The Fulan Fehan Festival in Belu Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, transforms the vast savannah at the foot of Mount Lakaan into a natural stage celebrating local heritage. The annual event, held since 2017, showcases traditional dances like the Likurai and fosters cross-border camaraderie with neighbouring Timor Leste and Australia. Under the 2026 theme 'Dance for Friendship', the festival serves as a diplomatic bridge, using art and culture to strengthen identity and peace at Indonesia's eastern frontier.

What We Consider Good May Not Be Best in the Sight of Allah

Many believers struggle with feelings of disappointment when their piety does not translate into material success, comparing their lives unfavourably to those who are less devout. Islamic teachings remind the faithful that human perception of good and bad is limited, and that divine wisdom may withhold worldly gains for a greater purpose. The Qur'an and Hadith repeatedly emphasise patience as the proper response to trials, promising paradise as the ultimate reward for those who endure with faith.

Yusril Invites Komnas HAM to Investigate Shooting of Pregnant Woman in Papua

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has invited the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) to investigate civilian casualties in the armed conflict in Papua, including the death of a pregnant woman. He stressed that the government is not turning a blind eye and that investigations must be conducted fairly, while Komnas HAM urged a ceasefire to protect vulnerable civilians. The escalation follows the shooting of an American pilot and clashes between security forces and the TPNPB-OPM.

Lyrics and Meaning of 'Hari Baru', the Jingle for the 2026 Friendly School Orientation Programme

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has reintroduced the jingle 'Hari Baru' for the 2026/2027 academic year's Masa Pengenalan Lingkungan Sekolah (MPLS). Composed by Minister Abdul Mu'ti, the cheerful song promotes a safe, inclusive, and bullying-free school environment. The initiative is part of the 'MPLS Ramah' concept, which aims to help new students adapt positively to their school surroundings.

Nadiem Reports Four Central Jakarta Corruption Court Judges to Judicial Commission

Former Education Minister Nadiem Anwar Makarim has filed a complaint with the Judicial Commission against four judges who convicted him in a corruption case. His legal team alleges the judges manipulated trial facts during the proceedings. The family expressed hope the commission will investigate the alleged ethical violations to ensure justice is served.

Three Police Officers Killed in Central Kalimantan Drug Raid, Third Victim Found on Riverbank

The body of Aiptu Sumaryanto, a narcotics officer from the Katingan Police, was discovered on a riverbank in Central Kalimantan, bringing the death toll from a drug raid operation to three. He was found approximately four kilometres from the initial raid site in Tumbang Kalemei village. The three officers lost their lives during the law enforcement operation conducted by the Katingan Police Narcotics Unit.

HRTA strengthens business fundamentals amid gold price correction

PT Hartadinata Abadi Tbk (HRTA) is focusing on reinforcing its business fundamentals to sustain growth as global gold prices undergo a correction. The company views the price dip as a normal commodity market dynamic, citing strong underlying demand driven by geopolitical uncertainty and growing public awareness of gold savings. HRTA reported a 196.96 percent year-on-year revenue increase in the first quarter of 2026.

Three Suspects Arrested for Attacking Officers in Katingan, Central Kalimantan

Police in Katingan, Central Kalimantan, have arrested three individuals suspected of involvement in a deadly attack on narcotics officers during a drug raid. The assault, which occurred during an early morning operation in Tumbang Kalemei village, resulted in the deaths of three police personnel. Authorities are still pursuing a suspected methamphetamine dealer identified by the initial B.

Komnas HAM Receives 3,003 Human Rights Violation Complaints in 2025

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) recorded a significant increase in complaints, receiving 3,003 reports of alleged human rights violations in 2025. The police force (Polri) was the most reported entity, while the commission highlighted a growing crisis of social-political trust and a gap between national development and rights implementation under the new government.

DPD RI Pushes for Comprehensive Solutions to Achieve Peace in Papua

The Indonesian Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) has called for a holistic approach to end the recurring violence in Papua, following recent deadly incidents. A special committee has been formed to gather aspirations and formulate recommendations, emphasising that security measures alone are insufficient. The council stresses the need for dialogue, justice, and equitable development to restore safety and dignity for all Papuans.

DPR Intervenes Amid Uproar Over Tokopedia Layoff Reports

Indonesia's House of Representatives has stepped in following viral reports of mass layoffs at Tokopedia. A meeting was facilitated between company representatives and the Manpower Minister, where Tokopedia denied the layoffs, describing the changes as workforce restructuring and internal mobility. The company stated that some employees opted for compensation packages while it simultaneously opened over 100 new positions.

On 80th Bhayangkara Day, Police PR Division Invites Public to Create Works About the Force

The Indonesian National Police's Public Relations Division is organising a series of creative competitions to mark the 80th Bhayangkara Day. The initiative invites the public, including children and people with disabilities, to submit works expressing their hopes, constructive criticism, and personal stories about the police force. The programme aims to strengthen the positive relationship between the police and the community under the theme 'Polri Untuk Masyarakat' (Police for the Community).

House Budget Committee Responds to Proposal on Increasing Regional Heads' Financial Rights

The House Budget Committee (Banggar) has responded to a proposal to increase the financial rights of regional heads, suggesting it is not an urgent priority. The committee chairman emphasised that maintaining fiscal credibility and inclusive economic growth should take precedence, while the proposing legislator argued that a rational compensation scheme could help curb corruption.

Fraud Losses Far Exceed Recovered Funds, OJK Reveals Causes

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports that the Indonesia Anti-Scam Centre (IASC) secured Rp674.1 billion in fraud victims' funds between November 2024 and June 2025, yet total losses reached Rp9.3 trillion. The recovery rate stands at just 7.24 per cent, a gap officials attribute primarily to victims' delays in reporting incidents. The OJK is now developing a system to enable faster reporting, as the speed of notification critically determines the success of blocking and recovering stolen funds.

Profile of Raja Juli Antoni: Educational Background and Total Wealth of IDR 13.5 Billion Based on Latest LHKPN

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni is under public scrutiny after the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) indicated he may be summoned regarding an alleged bribery case involving a district head. His profile, including his extensive international education and a reported wealth of IDR 13.5 billion, has drawn renewed interest. The KPK has stressed that any decision to summon him will be based solely on evidentiary requirements.

US wants Europe to bear greater defence burden for NATO

Washington's push for European NATO members to increase defence spending is driven by a desire to shift more financial and military responsibility, not a full withdrawal from the alliance. The US faces domestic economic pressures and a strategic need to focus on countering China in the Asia-Pacific. However, European governments find ambitious military budget increases difficult to justify amid their own economic woes, high public debt, and weakening middle classes.

Regional Languages in the Midst of Advancing Times

The rapid advance of globalisation and digitalisation is increasingly marginalising Indonesia's more than 700 regional languages, threatening a vital part of the nation's cultural identity. The article argues that preserving these languages requires a creative, technology-driven approach rather than outdated rote learning, integrating them into digital content and artificial intelligence to engage younger generations. It calls for a balance between embracing global modernity and maintaining the linguistic heritage that embodies local wisdom and identity.

UMS Strengthens Global Network, Explores Strategic Collaboration with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) has conducted a benchmarking visit to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) to study best practices in global reputation management and strategic data handling. The visit resulted in plans for concrete collaborative programmes, including joint research funding, student and staff exchanges, and international conferences. Both institutions aim to move beyond administrative agreements to implement impactful initiatives in research, health, and academic publishing.

DPR: Free Nutritious Meal Programme Budget to Drop to IDR 174 Trillion Next Year

The House of Representatives' Budget Committee has confirmed that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal programme will be reduced from IDR 268 trillion to approximately IDR 174 trillion next year. The adjustment aligns with the number of service units and beneficiary students, following President Prabowo's directive for more efficient fund management. Realisation of the programme's budget had reached IDR 75 trillion by the end of April, covering nearly 62 million beneficiaries.

US Dollar Breaches Rp18,000 Again, Foreign Banks Already Selling at Rp18,285

The Indonesian rupiah weakened past the psychological level of Rp18,000 per US dollar on Monday, depreciating 0.31% in early trade. While major local banks offered the greenback at rates just above this threshold, foreign banks such as HSBC, MUFG, and UOB posted significantly higher selling rates, with HSBC's banknote rate reaching Rp18,285. The depreciation marks the rupiah's weakest point since early June 2026.

Understanding Advertising and Commercials in Broadcasting Law and Ethics

The article examines the legal and ethical frameworks governing advertising in Indonesian broadcasting. It highlights key regulations such as the Broadcasting Law and the P3SPS guidelines, which prohibit misleading, violent, or discriminatory content. The piece argues that these principles remain crucial in the digital age to protect the public, particularly children, from harmful promotional content.

Responding to Complaints, Road Repairs in North Penajam Paser, East Kalimantan Accelerated This Month

The East Kalimantan National Road Implementation Centre (BBPJN) has initiated emergency patching on a damaged state road corridor in Penajam Paser Utara following public complaints. Permanent resurfacing is scheduled for next year due to existing budget allocations, while the local government has proposed a widening study to the Ministry of Public Works. The temporary works target 12 damaged points to ensure traffic safety and flow.

Cipta Karya Prepares Community-Based Infrastructure in 3,246 Locations

The Directorate General of Cipta Karya at the Ministry of Public Works is planning community-based infrastructure activities across 3,246 locations in 2027. With a budget allocation of Rp1.7 trillion, the programme aims to absorb approximately 48,000 workers. The initiative includes projects for water supply, sanitation, waste management, and regional socio-economic development.

Lawyer's Home in Depok Terrorised with Object Suspected to be Grenade

The residence of lawyer Novianus Martin Bau in Depok was targeted in a suspected terror incident involving a drone carrying a replica grenade. Police confirmed the object was not a live explosive, but the drone also carried a threatening message reading 'This is just the beginning'. The lawyer believes the intimidation is linked to a land dispute case his team is handling in West Jakarta.

The Gulf Does Not Trust Washington: The Most Honest Signal from Khamenei's Funeral

The physical presence of Gulf leaders at Ayatollah Khamenei's funeral in Tehran, despite prior US assurances, signals a profound erosion of trust in Washington's security guarantees. The event, strategically held on 4 July, created a powerful counter-narrative to American claims of victory, highlighting the Gulf states' need to hedge against an unreliable protector. The tears and defiant stance of Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, further signalled that the new Iranian leadership will not be easily controlled.

GoPay's 'Pintar Bareng GoPay' Financial Literacy Programme Returns to Target Academics and Students in Bandung

GoPay has relaunched its 'Pintar Bareng GoPay' financial literacy programme at Telkom University in Bandung, aiming to improve digital financial literacy among students. The initiative addresses the impact of social media and mental health on financial decision-making, featuring a certified financial planner and a psychologist. The programme seeks to equip students with skills to build healthy financial habits and avoid impulsive spending driven by social pressures like FOMO.

Universitas Brawijaya deploys students to develop dozens of villages in East Java

Universitas Brawijaya (UB) has dispatched over a thousand students to 76 villages across eight regencies in East Java as part of its 2026 'Mahasiswa Membangun Desa' (MMD) programme. The initiative employs a 'living laboratory' concept to ensure sustainable community development through continuous mentoring, focusing on appropriate technology, literacy, and economic empowerment. The programme targets the creation of over 100 appropriate technology products and aims to strengthen village economies, particularly through the growth of MSMEs.

Indonesia's Biggest M&A Deals of 2026: Which One Shook the Market Most?

Indonesia's stock exchange witnessed a flurry of major acquisition activity in the first half of 2026, spanning the energy, telecommunications, and healthcare sectors. The largest confirmed deal saw a consortium led by Arsari Group acquire Indosat's fibre optic assets for IDR 11.7 trillion, while Chandra Asri Pacific's estimated US$1 billion purchase of Esso petrol stations in Singapore topped the list in value. Other significant transactions involved Siloam Hospitals, United Tractors, and Dian Swastatika Sentosa, highlighting a robust appetite for corporate consolidation.

The Importance of Parental Interaction in Children's Language Acquisition in the Digitalisation Era

A study highlights the critical role of parental interaction in early childhood language development, warning that passive consumption of digital media cannot replace two-way communication. While technology offers educational benefits, experts caution that without active parental engagement, children risk speech delays and miss out on crucial social and emotional learning cues. The findings stress that digital tools should serve as a supplement, not a substitute, for human interaction in the home.

Central Jakarta Government Emphasises Importance of Character Building for Civil Servants

The Central Jakarta administration has highlighted the strategic importance of character building for government officials through an internship programme for IPDN students. The programme aims to provide practical experience in public administration and service delivery within the complex and dynamic environment of the capital. A total of 57 students from various civil service backgrounds are participating in the programme to enhance their physical, psychomotor, and objective capacities.

Rupiah Under Pressure, Singapore Dollar Approaches Rp14,000 Level

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the Singapore dollar on Monday, approaching the psychological level of Rp14,000 per SGD. The depreciation mirrors the rupiah's decline against the US dollar, which returned to the Rp18,000 mark. Domestic pressure mounted after Indonesia recorded a trade deficit in May, ending a 72-month surplus streak.

Prabowo to Officiate Groundbreaking of Giant Masela Block Gas Project

President Prabowo Subianto is scheduled to officiate the groundbreaking of the massive Masela Block gas project in mid-July 2026. The project, located in the Arafura Sea, holds Indonesia's largest deepwater gas reserves and is expected to significantly boost national LNG and pipeline gas production. Preparations are underway, with 93 tonnes of logistics being shipped to the site in Maluku for the presidential ceremony.

East Jakarta City Government Intensifies Monitoring of Rabies-Transmitting Animal Meat in Local Eateries

The East Jakarta City Government has deployed a joint task force to inspect regional eateries in Ciracas and Kramat Jati for the sale of meat from rabies-transmitting animals. The operation, which involves food security, health, and public order agencies, aims to enforce a gubernatorial regulation and eliminate the circulation of such meat. Officials are also collecting food samples for laboratory testing while prioritising education for business owners on the health risks involved.

Ministry of Public Works Allocates Rp26.30 Trillion for Phase 3 Construction of 'Sekolah Rakyat'

The Ministry of Public Works has earmarked Rp26.30 trillion to build 100 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) units in Phase 3 next year, as part of a government push to expand access to quality education. The funding will also cover a down payment for Phase 4, which involves a multi-year contract for an additional 100 units from 2027 to 2028. Minister Dody Hanggodo noted that while Phase 2 construction is nearly 81 per cent complete, global geopolitical tensions have caused building material and fuel price hikes, slightly slowing progress.

Earning a Living in a Foreign Land: The Dilemma of Female Workers Amid a Wave of Layoffs

As layoffs surge across Indonesia's industrial regions, many women are forced to become migrant workers as a last resort to support their families. These women face profound dilemmas, leaving behind children and struggling husbands for higher wages abroad, often enduring social sacrifice and personal hardship. Their stories highlight the hidden human cost behind the statistics of migrant labour and national remittance income.

Ministry: New Student Admission System Builds Trust in Quality Education Services

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has highlighted the implementation of the new Student Admission System (SPMB) in Padang, West Sumatra, as a model of accountable, transparent, and inclusive practice. A senior ministry official stressed that the admission process serves as the gateway to education and must be conducted openly to foster public trust. A teacher involved in the process noted that while administration ran smoothly, guiding undecided students in choosing their specialisation remains a key challenge.

DPR Urges Focus on Water and Basic Infrastructure as Public Works Budget Faces Steep Cuts

The House of Representatives (DPR) has urged the Ministry of Public Works to prioritise essential services such as clean water access and community infrastructure after the 2027 indicative budget was slashed. The Directorate General of Human Settlements faces a significant shortfall, with its budget ceiling set at Rp11.07 trillion against a requirement of Rp30.42 trillion, forcing it to halt new projects.

OJK Confident in SE Data Security, Urges Public to Beware of Fraud

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has expressed confidence in the Central Statistics Agency's (BPS) ability to maintain the confidentiality of the 2026 Economic Census data. However, the OJK is urging the public to verify the identities of field officers to prevent potential data misuse by irresponsible parties.

Minister Ensures Transparency in Sumedang Housing Aid Programme Through Open Tender Scheme

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait has guaranteed the transparent implementation of the Self-Help Housing Stimulant Assistance (BSPS) programme in Sumedang Regency for 2026. The programme will utilise an Open Shop Selection (PTT) scheme, allowing beneficiaries to compare material prices and negotiate directly with suppliers. The initiative, which has been significantly expanded to 2,060 units, also aims to stimulate the local economy by involving builders, small businesses, and material shops.

IAEA Aware of Pressure to Name Perpetrators of Zaporizhia Nuclear Plant Attacks

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) acknowledges growing pressure, particularly from Moscow, to publicly identify those responsible for artillery attacks on the Zaporizhia Nuclear Power Plant. Director General Rafael Grossi stated that while he understands the expectation for the agency to assign blame, the IAEA must be able to independently verify all circumstances before making such a determination. He emphasised that, in the absence of such verification, his focus remains on clearly stating that any attacks on the facility are unacceptable.

Learning Law in the Darkness of a Cave to Protect the Light of Coban Perawan

Law students from Widya Gama University Malang are studying environmental law deep inside Coban Perawan cave to understand how legal instruments can protect Indonesia's fragile karst ecosystems. The experiential learning class focuses on the threats posed by mining expansion to the region's vital underground water reserves and ancient speleothem formations. The initiative also involves certifying local villagers as professional eco-tourism guides to promote sustainable management of the area.

Badung Regency Posts IDR 806 Billion Budget Surplus for 2025

Badung Regency in Bali has reported a budget surplus of IDR 806.5 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, a significant turnaround from an initially projected deficit. The surplus was driven by local revenue realisation of IDR 9.1 trillion, while total expenditure reached IDR 8.3 trillion. The regency also secured its 14th consecutive unqualified opinion (WTP) from the national audit board for its financial reporting.

Kuwait Launches Emergency Fund to Repair War-Damaged Infrastructure

Kuwait has announced a USD 100 million emergency response fund to repair facilities damaged during the conflict with Iran. The fund, managed by the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), aims to establish an emergency financing framework and strengthen national crisis response. Officials urged government bodies and the private sector to contribute to the initiative, which will assess funding requests and prioritise projects.

APL Introduces Tirzepatide to Strengthen Metabolic Disease Management in Indonesia

PT Anugerah Pharmindo Lestari (APL) has announced the launch of tirzepatide in Indonesia, a first-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. The drug's approval was expedited by Indonesia's Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM), which granted marketing authorisation in 98 working days. With diabetes affecting an estimated 20.4 million adults and obesity prevalence reaching 23.4%, this new therapy aims to provide a more comprehensive approach to managing the country's growing metabolic disease burden.

Budget Committee Head Estimates Free Nutritious Meals Budget to Drop to Rp 174 Trillion

The head of Indonesia's House Budget Committee, Said Abdullah, has projected that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme will decrease to Rp 174 trillion in 2027, down from Rp 268 trillion in 2026. He emphasised that the reduction should not compromise the quality of nutrition provided to students and other beneficiaries. The final budget decision is expected to be finalised in September in coordination with the government.

Governor Koster Denies Rejecting Free Nutritious Meals, Prepares 7.1 Hectares for SPPG Bali

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has refuted claims that his administration is rejecting the central government's free nutritious meal programme, affirming full support for President Prabowo Subianto's strategic policies. As a demonstration of commitment, the provincial government has allocated 7.1 hectares of land for the construction of Nutritional Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) across the island. The administration has also provided land for the Sekolah Rakyat programme and the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives initiative.

BMKG Sultra Issues Warning for Potential 2.5-Metre High Waves Until 9 July

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has urged fishermen and vessel operators in Southeast Sulawesi to remain vigilant for high waves forecast to reach up to 2.5 metres. The early warning, effective from 6 to 9 July 2026, is driven by easterly to southerly wind patterns with speeds potentially hitting 20 knots. Specific high-risk zones include the waters off Baubau, Wakatobi, and the eastern Banda Sea.

Civil Servants Caught Faking Attendance: How They Manipulated the System and How to Prevent It

Police in Brebes have uncovered a scheme where civil servants used fake GPS coordinates to manipulate the electronic attendance system. Cybersecurity expert Alfons Tanujaya outlined three possible methods, including exploiting mock location apps and directly sending forged requests to the backend server. He recommends implementing biometric liveness detection and stricter server-side validation to prevent future fraud.

Pantoloan Customs Destroys 275 Bales and 4.6 Million Illegal Cigarettes from Enforcement Actions

The Pantoloan Customs and Excise Office in Central Sulawesi has destroyed 275 bales of illegally imported goods and 4.6 million illicit cigarettes, with a combined value exceeding IDR 7.8 billion. The destruction, carried out after receiving official approval, represents the agency's commitment to enforcing customs and excise laws. Officials highlighted that the successful seizures were the result of strong collaboration with the military, police, prosecutors, and courier companies.

Jakarta Creative Festival 2026 Records IDR 55 Billion in Transactions, IDR 575 Billion in Financing Commitments

The Jakarta Kreatif Festival (JKF) 2026 generated IDR 55 billion in transactions and secured IDR 575 billion in bank financing commitments for corporations over two days. The event, which featured 377 tenants and attracted 15,000 visitors, served as a collaboration hub for MSMEs, banks, and the government. Jakarta Regional Secretary Uus Kuswanto emphasised that creativity and collaboration are key to strengthening the city's economic competitiveness ahead of its transformation into a global city.

Puncak Jaya Glacier Now Only 2 Percent Remaining, No Longer Eternal

The glacier atop Puncak Jaya in Papua has shrunk to just 2 percent of its 1988 size, with Indonesia's meteorological agency warning it could vanish entirely by the end of 2026. The rapid melting, driven by global climate change and El Niño, threatens local ecosystems, water balance, and the cultural heritage of indigenous Papuan communities. Experts note that while the local impact is gradual, the loss contributes to global sea-level rise.

Government Injects Rp 400 Trillion Liquidity into State Banks to Boost Lending

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced a Rp 400 trillion liquidity injection into state-owned banks (Himbara) to strengthen their lending capacity. The government aims to boost credit growth to 14-15% this year, significantly higher than Bank Indonesia's forecast of 8-12%. This move is intended to lower market interest rates and accelerate economic growth by ensuring banks have sufficient funds for business expansion.

If Disbelievers, Jinn, and Even Trees Are Moved by the Qur'an, Why Aren't We Muslims? Here Are 8 Reasons

The waning influence of the Qur'an on many Muslims today is a pressing concern, especially when contrasted with historical accounts of non-Muslims, jinn, and even inanimate objects being profoundly moved by its recitation. This article explores the spiritual disconnect, suggesting that a lack of understanding, a hardened heart, and the absence of sincere contemplation are among the key reasons why believers fail to be affected by the divine scripture. It calls for introspection to restore the Qur'an's transformative power in the lives of Muslims.

OJK Warns Influencers Not to Mislead Public on Economic Census Data Collection

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has cautioned content creators and financial influencers against spreading misleading information about the 2026 Economic Census, following reports of public refusal to participate due to social media content linking the census to taxation issues. The regulator highlighted its newly enacted POJK Number 6 of 2026, which governs the conduct of financial influencers and aims to protect consumers from incompetent or misleading advice. The OJK also urged the public to verify the identity of census officials through local neighbourhood leaders to avoid potential scams during the national data collection exercise.

Museum as a bastion of history preservation amid globalisation

The South Kalimantan Education and Culture Office has emphasised the strategic role of museums as innovative and inclusive learning spaces to preserve history and culture against the tide of globalisation. The 'Sepekan Cinta Museum' (Museum Love Week) programme aims to foster a love for cultural heritage, particularly among the younger generation. Organisers plan to expand participation in future events by introducing age-based competition categories to further engage children and adults in cultural preservation.

Indonesia daycare abuse case grows to 27 suspects, police say

Indonesian police have named an additional 14 suspects in a shocking child abuse case at an unlicensed daycare centre in Yogyakarta, bringing the total to 27. The new suspects include caregivers, a security officer, and administrative staff who allegedly participated in or allowed the abuse, which involved tying up children as young as two. The case has sparked public outrage and highlights serious lapses in child protection and facility oversight.

Central Jakarta Administration to Make Subdistrict and District Offices Waste Management Models

The Central Jakarta city administration plans to turn subdistrict and district offices into pilot sites for independent waste management. The initiative involves sorting and processing both organic and inorganic waste on-site to set an example for the wider community. The move is part of efforts to reduce the volume of waste sent to the Bantar Gebang integrated waste treatment facility.

House Commission IV Schedules Meeting with Forestry Minister to Probe Kuansing Land Conversion

The House of Representatives' Commission IV will summon Forestry Minister Raja Juli to discuss the land conversion process in Kuantan Singingi, following the arrest of the local regent for bribery. The meeting, scheduled for next week, aims to scrutinise the administrative mechanisms of the land conversion, not the legal case itself. The Minister previously reported that the arrested regent left an envelope in his office, which was promptly returned.

Telkom Completes Streamlining of 10 Entities, Accelerates Transformation Towards Strategic Holding

PT Telkom Indonesia has completed the streamlining of 10 subsidiaries by the first half of 2026, fulfilling a mandate from Danantara Asset Management and the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises. The restructuring, involving divestments, mergers, and liquidations, is a key pillar of the company's strategy to shift from an operating holding to a strategic holding model. The move aims to create a leaner group structure, sharpen operational focus, and strengthen Telkom's position as a globally competitive national digital ecosystem enabler.

New Phenomenon: Cook, Cashier, and Waitress Duties Handled by One Person

A new trend in Indonesia's fast-food sector sees employees taking on multiple roles, including cooking, cashiering, and serving, as outlets grapple with declining consumer demand. The shift reflects broader economic pressures forcing businesses to streamline operations, with some restaurants reducing shift staff from six to just one or two workers. Despite the increased workload, affected employees report no change in their wages.

PDIP's Said Responds to PSI's Ambition to Turn Central Java into a 'Gajah' Stronghold

PDI Perjuangan senior politician Said Abdullah has dismissed as a 'hoax' claims by the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI) that it can turn Central Java into its stronghold. The province has historically been a bastion for PDIP, known as the 'bull's pen'. PSI's ambition was voiced by its Central Java chairman and reinforced by party chairman Kaesang Pangarep, who stressed the need for a solid party structure ahead of the 2029 general election.

Defence Ministry Supports Pindad Munitions Plant Construction in South Kalimantan

The Indonesian Defence Ministry has endorsed the construction of a new munitions factory by state-owned arms manufacturer PT Pindad in Batulicin, South Kalimantan. The facility aims to bolster domestic ammunition production, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and improve distribution efficiency for the Indonesian Armed Forces. The strategic location was chosen based on land availability, infrastructure support, and its role in strengthening the national defence industry.

BNI Synergises with BI to Boost Creative Economy and National Digital Payments

State-owned bank BNI is reinforcing its commitment to Indonesia's digital economic transformation through participation in the Jakarta Kreatif Festival 2026. The initiative, organised with Bank Indonesia, aims to expand digital payment adoption and strengthen the national payment ecosystem. BNI views the collaboration as a strategic step to support the creative industry and accelerate financial inclusion.

KLH to Rehabilitate Jatiwaringin Landfill Management After Fire Extinguished

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment plans to rehabilitate the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang, Banten, once firefighting operations are complete. The initiative will prioritise closing the site's open dumping system to mitigate methane emissions and prevent future fires. Legal evaluations regarding the landfill's poor management will be coordinated with the ministry's law enforcement directorate.

BNI Presents O-Branch and Digital Payment Ecosystem at Jakarta Kreatif Festival 2026

State-owned bank BNI is showcasing its integrated digital transaction ecosystem, including the mobile O-Branch service and QRIS payments, at the Jakarta Kreatif Festival 2026. The initiative aims to bring banking services closer to the public, offering account opening, currency exchange, and digital literacy programmes for the creative economy. The activation coincides with BNI's 80th anniversary, reinforcing its commitment to accelerating Indonesia's digital economy through inclusive financial solutions.

Iraq Signs Deal with US Firm Halliburton to Develop Two Oil Fields

Iraq has signed an agreement with American oil services giant Halliburton to develop the Bin Omar and Sinbad oil fields in Basra province. The deal aims to boost Iraq's production capacity as the new government seeks increased OPEC quotas and greater US investment to revive an economy heavily damaged by recent conflicts.

Philippine Vice President's Impeachment Trial Begins, Deepening Political Divide

The impeachment trial of Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte commenced on Monday, a process that could determine her political future and shape the 2028 presidential election. The trial intensifies the rift between the powerful Duterte and Marcos political dynasties, with analysts stressing that public perception of the trial's fairness will be crucial. Duterte faces charges including misuse of public funds and threatening the president, which she denies as politically motivated.

Hamzah Ladema: 15 Years of Service for Residents of Central Sulawesi's Outermost Island

Bripka Hamzah Ladema has dedicated 15 years to serving the community on the remote island of Sonit in Central Sulawesi. As a community police officer, he overcomes logistical challenges and extreme weather to support local fishermen, seaweed farmers, and schoolchildren. His work exemplifies the state's presence in Indonesia's frontier regions.

Disabled Female Ride-Hailing Driver in Medan Hit by Minibus, Motorcycle Stolen

A deaf female online motorcycle taxi driver in Medan was struck by a public minibus whose driver fled the scene. While the victim was being treated at hospital, a man impersonating a family member retrieved her motorcycle from a nearby shop and stole it.

Rupiah Weakens, US Dollar Breaches Rp18,000 Again

The Indonesian rupiah has come under renewed pressure, weakening past the psychological level of Rp18,000 against the US dollar. The depreciation was driven by a strengthening greenback and domestic concerns following Indonesia's first trade deficit in 72 months. The trade balance recorded a US$1.61 billion deficit in May 2026, ending a long-running surplus streak.

TaniHub Entities Face Billions in Fines After Corruption Verdict

Three corporate entities within the TaniHub group have been found guilty of corruption related to investment funds from PT BVI and PT MDI Ventures. Prosecutors have demanded each company pay a fine of Rp1 billion, alongside a combined restitution payment of Rp359.9 billion. The court heard the actions caused state losses of approximately Rp364.22 billion and undermined government anti-corruption efforts.

Labour Coalition Urges Acceleration of New Manpower Law Deliberations

The Labour Party and Workers' Coalition (KSP-PB) has called on the government and the House of Representatives to expedite the drafting of a new Manpower Law before the October 2026 deadline set by the Constitutional Court. The coalition has submitted a 250-page draft concept proposing 59 improvements and 17 new issues, including expanded worker definitions to cover digital platform and creative sector employees. President Prabowo Subianto has also instructed relevant ministers to finalise the bill this year, with parliamentary discussions scheduled to begin in May 2026.

National Police Chief Attends Persis Brigade Basic Training Closing, Calls for Unity

National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo attended the closing ceremony of the Persis Brigade's national basic training in Bogor, urging the organisation to safeguard national unity. He emphasised the importance of synergy between the police and community groups to support government programmes and maintain public order. Sigit also called on the brigade to enhance human resources and digital literacy in preparation for Indonesia's demographic bonus and the 2045 Golden Indonesia vision.

DPR Reveals Potential Increase in Hajj Costs Next Year

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has indicated that the cost of the Hajj pilgrimage for 2027 is likely to rise compared to this year. Marwan Dasopang, Chair of House Commission VIII, cited the weak rupiah exchange rate and rising prices in Saudi Arabia as key contributing factors. He noted that any reduction in costs would be difficult without compromising the quality of services for pilgrims.

Babel Police Name Inmate as Suspect in Prison-Controlled Drug Ring

Police in the Bangka Belitung Islands have named a prison inmate as a suspect for orchestrating a drug trafficking operation from his cell. The investigation revealed that only a portion of the 1.6 kilograms of seized substance was actual methamphetamine, with the rest being rock sugar used as a cutting agent. Authorities are continuing to trace the larger supply network linked to the case.

Prabowo and PM Wong Meet: The Two Faces of Indonesia-Singapore Economic Relations

A meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the dual nature of economic ties between the two nations. While Indonesia recorded a trade deficit of US$3.83 billion in the first half of 2026, largely due to fuel imports, Singapore remains the largest source of foreign direct investment. The visit underscores Singapore's role as both a key supplier of goods and a crucial financial hub channelling global capital into Indonesia.

Johns Hopkins Nasal Spray Vaccine Effective in Preventing TB Relapse

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed an experimental intranasal DNA vaccine that shows promise in preventing tuberculosis (TB) relapse. The vaccine targets drug-tolerant 'persister' bacteria, which are responsible for the disease recurring after standard antibiotic treatment. In preclinical trials on mice and rhesus macaques, the spray accelerated bacterial clearance, reduced lung inflammation, and boosted the efficacy of drugs against multidrug-resistant TB.

Central Jakarta Administration Targets Zero Waste Through Source-Based Management

The Central Jakarta municipal government is intensifying efforts to achieve zero waste by strengthening waste sorting and processing at the source. The initiative responds to the limited capacity of the Bantar Gebang Integrated Waste Treatment Plant and follows a gubernatorial instruction. Authorities are targeting a 50 per cent reduction in waste volume by August through household-level sorting and expanded processing of organic and inorganic materials.

Ustaz Abdul Somad Blocked by Dozens While Attempting to Deliver Sermon in East Kalimantan

Dozens of residents blocked the vehicle of prominent preacher Ustaz Abdul Somad as he arrived to deliver a sermon in West Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan. The group, claiming to represent the Dayak Youth Movement, stated they rejected his presence to prevent potential communal divisions. Police had anticipated the protest and had already moved the cleric to another vehicle, allowing him to pass through the airport gate undetected.

Prices Rise, Here's the State of Indonesian Purchasing Power in the First Half of 2026

Indonesian consumer purchasing power showed signs of strain in the first half of 2026, with inflation rising and consumer confidence declining, though vehicle and cement sales remained robust. The government has pledged to focus on controlling inflation and maintaining purchasing power amid global economic uncertainty, ruling out electricity tariff hikes for the third quarter. Despite the pessimism reflected in the Consumer Confidence Index, key sectors like automotive and construction recorded positive growth.

28 Residents Affected by Jatiwaringin Landfill Fire Remain in Shelters

Twenty-eight residents of Tanjakan Mekar village in Tangerang Regency, Banten, remain in temporary shelters a week after a major fire broke out at the Jatiwaringin landfill. The evacuees, mostly children and the elderly, are receiving adequate food and medical support from the government and volunteers. Firefighting efforts involving ground crews and water-bombing helicopters have contained the blaze to 3.6 per cent of the 18-hectare affected area.

Road Rage Assailant in South Jakarta Arrested Without Resistance

A motorcyclist in Jagakarsa, South Jakarta, who went viral for punching another rider, has been arrested by police. The suspect, identified by his initials FRS, was apprehended without a fight while riding his motorbike and is now facing charges of minor assault. The incident reportedly began after the victim's motorcycle was bumped from behind, and the suspect attacked him following a verbal reprimand.

Gowa Regent Claims She Has Not Received Summons for DPRD Inquiry Hearing

Gowa Regent Husniah Talenrang stated she has not yet received an invitation to a clarification hearing for the inquiry rights session initiated by the Gowa Regency DPRD. She affirmed her readiness to attend whenever the special committee schedules the session, while emphasising the need for continued coordination between the executive and legislative branches. The DPRD's inquiry is scrutinising allegations of authority misuse in revoking doctoral scholarships, irregularities in free school uniform procurement, and disgraceful conduct related to local governance.

Indonesian Ambassador Attends Final Respects for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran

Indonesia's Ambassador to Iran, Rolliansyah Soemirat, joined Indonesian citizens in Tehran to pay respects to the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The ceremony at the Grand Mosalla marks the beginning of a six-day funeral procession following a ceasefire agreement. The event carries significant diplomatic and symbolic weight amid the region's volatile security situation.

Government Lowers Industrial LNG Price to US$13 per MMBTU

The Indonesian government has reduced the price of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) for industries in West Java, Banten, and DKI Jakarta from US$20-US$23 to US$13 per MMBTU. Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the intervention was necessary to maintain industrial competitiveness and protect jobs following a spike in global energy prices. The government now operates three distinct gas pricing categories, with the specific HGBT price for seven industrial sectors remaining fixed at US$6.5-US$7 per MMBTU.

East Jakarta Relies on Urban Farming to Strengthen Food Security

The East Jakarta city administration is promoting urban farming as a key strategy to bolster food security and community welfare. The initiative involves coaching farmer groups, providing assistance, and developing activities aimed at economic empowerment. The commitment was recently recognised with top honours at the DKI Jakarta Provincial Urban Farming Festival.

Customs Combs Jombang Region, Seizes 46,860 Illegal Cigarettes

A joint operation in Jombang Regency, East Java, led by the Kediri Customs and Excise Office, has seized 46,860 illegal cigarettes worth an estimated Rp 70.5 million. The crackdown, conducted with Satpol PP and the TNI, prevented potential state losses of over Rp 46 million. Officials emphasised that inter-agency collaboration is crucial for protecting state revenue and ensuring a fair business environment.

Viral Video Claims 'Red and White' Village Cooperative Built Haphazardly on Mountain, Here Are the Facts

A video claiming a Kopdes Merah Putih (Red and White Village Cooperative) building in West Bandung was constructed haphazardly on a remote mountain has gone viral. Local officials have clarified that the structure is actually located in a parking area of the Stone Garden tourist site, near residential areas, and was built on village-owned land following community deliberation. The building is nearly complete and is intended to display and sell local products.

Taufik Hidayat Faces 36 Years in Prison Under Multiple Charges Including Sexual Assault

West Java Police have charged Taufik Hidayat with three criminal offences, including sexual violence, following an investigation into the abuse and confinement of his girlfriend. The charges carry a cumulative maximum sentence of 36 years in prison. Authorities applied layered articles covering hostage-taking, premeditated grievous bodily harm, and sexual violence under the specific law on such crimes.

Jakarta Police Chief: Collaboration is Key to Maintaining Security in the Capital

Jakarta Police Chief Komjen Asep Edi Suheri emphasised that maintaining security and public order in the capital requires synergy between the police, the military, local government, and the community. He stated that the Nugraha Sakanti award received by Polda Metro Jaya is the result of collective dedication and cross-sectoral cooperation. Asep also reminded his personnel to uphold integrity, respond quickly to public reports, and act professionally to maintain public trust.

Companies Reluctant to Recruit New Staff as AI Replaces Humans

A new report indicates that recruitment for AI roles in India has surged by 16%, while overall IT hiring has declined by 3%, signalling a shift in corporate investment. The data suggests companies are prioritising specialised AI talent over traditional technology staff, with predictions that the number of human employees and AI agents will soon reach parity.

OJK: 557,751 Accounts Blocked as of June Amid Financial Scam Crackdown

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has blocked over 557,000 bank accounts linked to financial scams as of June 2025, securing Rp674.1 billion in funds. The regulator believes the reported figures represent only the 'tip of the iceberg' due to underreporting by victims. The OJK is strengthening anti-money laundering measures and cross-sector coordination to combat increasingly sophisticated fraud networks.

Jakarta's Waste Management Ambitions Clash with Public Apathy and Inadequate Infrastructure

The Jakarta provincial government's new instruction mandating waste separation at source faces significant hurdles, including a lack of public motivation and insufficient infrastructure. Despite the urgency following the Bantargebang landfill landslide, many residents view participation as an opportunity cost with no direct material benefit. The policy's success is further threatened by the inconsistent availability of segregated bins and deeply ingrained public habits, with official data showing only 13.61 percent of households currently sort their waste.

Salemba Prison Holds Security and Order Socialisation

Salemba Class IIA Prison has conducted a door-to-door socialisation campaign to reinforce security and order among inmates. The initiative emphasises strict adherence to standard operating procedures, including mandatory checks and a ban on illegal items under the Zero Halinar programme. Officials stressed that any violations will result in sanctions to maintain a safe and conducive correctional environment.

TTU Council Speaker Also Questioned by Police in Dr Icha Death Case

Police have questioned the Speaker of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives, Kristoforus Efi, in connection with the death of doctor Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni. The examination is part of an investigation into alleged intimidation against the deceased. Following the questioning, Efi was reportedly removed from his position as head of the Golkar Party branch in TTU.

Expanding Tax Objects and the Willingness to Understand the People's Socio-Economic Facts

The government's progressive tax expansion policies are facing scrutiny as they risk increasing poverty if implemented without considering the current weak socio-economic conditions. Recent measures, including taxes on BPJS old-age benefits and small-scale food stalls, have sparked public outcry and are seen as counterproductive to recovery efforts. Analysts argue that instead of aggressively broadening the tax base, the government should provide more incentives to help struggling businesses and citizens regain financial independence.

Supporting Jakarta's Creative Economy, Bank Jakarta Receives OJK Appreciation

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has commended Bank Jakarta for its strategic role in advancing the capital's creative economy. The bank's involvement is considered crucial for the success of the Regional Economic Development Programme, a flagship initiative of the DKI Jakarta TPAKD. This collaboration aims to strengthen the creative sector as a key driver in realising Jakarta's vision of becoming a top 20 global city.

Taufik Hidayat Faces 36 Years in Prison Under Three Layered Charges

Taufik Hidayat, a suspect in a case involving hostage-taking and premeditated grievous bodily harm, is now facing a potential 36-year prison sentence. The West Java Police have added a third charge related to sexual violence under the 2002 Criminal Act. The combined maximum penalties for the three articles could result in decades of imprisonment.

Brigpol Kamaludin Transforms 'Couch Potatoes' in NTB into Earners

A police officer in West Sumbawa has successfully transformed unemployed residents, previously dubbed 'kaum rebahan' (couch potatoes), into productive farmers and livestock breeders. Brigpol Kamaludin initiated the empowerment programme in 2021, providing seeds, livestock, and business mentoring to boost the local economy. The initiative has reportedly reduced unemployment in Sermong Village by 75 per cent.

Video: As the World's Arms Export King, the US Sees Indonesia Join the Ammunition Shopping Spree

The global arms trade remains a crucial component of international economics and strategic relations amid rising military modernisation demands. The United States' influence extends beyond its vast military and global base network to its position as the world's largest arms supplier. Indonesia is reportedly participating in this market by purchasing ammunition.

Deputy for Investment Cooperation Andre Omer Passes Away

Andre Omer Siregar, Deputy for Investment Cooperation at the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), died on Sunday, 5 July 2026. He had only recently been appointed to the role in March 2026, where he focused on advancing investment cooperation in global forums. Prior to this, he had a long diplomatic career at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

OJK Urges Financial Sector to Provide Honest Responses in Support of Economic Census

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has voiced its support for the national Economic Census conducted by Statistics Indonesia (BPS), calling it a crucial tool for understanding the country's economic landscape. OJK Chairperson Friderica Widyasari Dewi urged all financial service businesses to cooperate fully and provide truthful data to census officers. She also reminded the public to verify the identity of visiting officials to avoid potential fraud, while dismissing misconceptions that the data would be used for tax collection purposes.

Trump 'Shocked' by Massive Turnout at Khamenei's Funeral

US President Donald Trump expressed surprise at the enormous crowds attending the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, admitting he thought the leader was deeply unpopular. Trump also claimed Iran is eager to resume negotiations, but both sides agreed to delay talks until after the funeral proceedings. The funeral drew millions of mourners in Tehran, with crowds chanting anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans.

Ministry of Forestry Expands Carbon Trading to Social Forestry Schemes

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry is broadening carbon trading beyond corporate concessions to include social forestry and conservation areas like Way Kambas National Park. The initiative aims to create an inclusive and sustainable carbon trading ecosystem that improves community welfare. A new Carbon Unit Registration System (SRUK) is set to launch on 9 July 2026, supported by collaboration with the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

Transforming Merauke into a Rice Bowl: Thousands of Hectares Converted to Paddy Fields

The government is intensifying its focus on Merauke Regency as the epicentre of agricultural expansion in Papua, with over half of the region's new paddy fields located there. Officials revealed that 48,000 of the 84,000 hectares of newly created rice paddies across Papua are in Merauke, alongside nearly all of the land optimisation programmes. The initiative aims to boost national food security and transform the region into a major rice exporter for eastern Indonesia.

NTT Police to Question Family of Doctor Icha Next Week

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Police have scheduled the questioning of the family of the late Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Dr. Icha, for next week. The investigation concerns alleged intimidation involving three members of the Timor Tengah Utara Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) and a civil servant. A joint investigation team has been formed to ensure a professional and transparent inquiry into the case, which has drawn significant public attention.

Bogor City Government Scraps Over 100 Old Public Minivans Exceeding 20 Years of Age

The Bogor City Government has successfully removed 107 aging public minivans (angkot) from service within ten days of implementing a new mayoral regulation. The policy, which targets vehicles over 20 years old, saw operators voluntarily surrender their route permits, reducing the old fleet from 1,780 to 1,673 units. The city aims to phase out 500 old minivans by August 2026 as part of a broader effort to modernise its public transport system.

Indonesia prepares qualified teachers for Garuda Top Schools

The Indonesian government is investing in teacher training for its new Garuda Top Schools programme, which aims to produce graduates capable of entering top global universities. Deputy ministers emphasised that the programme's success depends on developing educators with professional integrity, intellectual intelligence, and character, alongside adequate facilities and curriculum. A recent training session for 54 teachers focused on international education standards, school governance, and character development.

Indonesian Tycoon Ong Hok Liong's Pilgrimage to Mount Kawi and the Birth of a Cigarette Empire

A historian recounts how a pilgrimage to a sacred Javanese grave site in the 1950s inspired Ong Hok Liong to rebrand his struggling cigarette factory. Following a dream interpreted by the tomb's custodian, he changed the name to Bentoel, which subsequently grew into one of Indonesia's largest tobacco companies and made him a multi-millionaire.

Jatiwaringin Landfill Fire Rages for a Week, Dozens Remain Displaced

A fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang Regency has been burning for seven days, forcing dozens of residents to remain in evacuation shelters due to toxic smoke. Authorities are deploying ground crews and water-bombing helicopters to extinguish the blaze, which is suspected to have been ignited by extreme heat igniting methane gas. The majority of the displaced are children and the elderly, with health workers monitoring evacuees for respiratory issues.

OJK: Bali Banks Increase Lending to MSMEs

Banks in Bali channelled 51.26% of their total credit to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) up to April 2026, according to the Financial Services Authority (OJK). Total bank lending in the province rose 9.14% year-on-year to Rp147.64 trillion, driven by investment loans and the strengthening tourism sector. The regulator noted that credit quality remained sound, with the non-performing loan ratio improving to 2.60%.

Indonesia, Singapore to sign 26 bilateral agreements

Indonesia and Singapore are set to sign 26 bilateral agreements during Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's visit to Jakarta, covering environmental cooperation and carbon trading. The two nations have already strengthened their environmental partnership with a framework MoU focusing on the circular economy, waste management, and climate change mitigation. The agreements will also facilitate technology transfer and joint research to support Indonesia's transition to a low-carbon economy.

NTT Governor Bans Tax-Delinquent and Out-of-Province Vehicles from Buying Subsidised Fuel

The Governor of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) has enforced a regulation barring vehicles with outstanding road tax or out-of-province plates from purchasing subsidised fuel. The policy aims to ensure that subsidised fuel quotas are reserved for local taxpayers who have fulfilled their obligations. The governor emphasised the move is about fiscal justice and building a culture of compliance, not merely increasing local revenue.

Why Mojtaba Khamenei Did Not Attend His Father's Funeral

Mojtaba Khamenei, the newly appointed Supreme Leader of Iran, was notably absent from the public funeral of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, reportedly due to security concerns. Analysts suggest his non-appearance is driven by threats from Israel and a desire to avoid showing vulnerability during a fragile transition of power. The funeral itself saw crowds chanting for revenge against US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Police Add Charges Against Taufik Hidayat, Total Prison Threat Reaches 36 Years

Indonesian police have added sexual violence charges to the case against Taufik Hidayat, who is accused of torturing and confining a woman. The accumulation of three charges, including hostage-taking and premeditated grievous bodily harm, could result in a maximum sentence of 36 years. Authorities are still completing the case file before handing it over to prosecutors.

DKI Council Urges Provincial Government to Prioritise Sanitation and Safety in Dense Settlements

A Jakarta councillor has called on the provincial government to prioritise basic services in densely populated areas, highlighting urgent needs for sanitation and road safety. During a recess visit to Taman Sari, West Jakarta, residents reported that 120 homes lack septic tanks, discharging waste directly into waterways. The councillor stressed that fulfilling these basic needs is a government responsibility that should not rely solely on corporate social responsibility programmes.

Danantara's new fund risks reopening old infrastructure funding pitfalls

Indonesia's state asset fund Danantara has quietly established a new investment vehicle, PT Danantara Development Management Fund, which could channel state budget money into major infrastructure projects like the Giant Sea Wall and the three-million-home programme. Experts warn that layering this development fund onto Danantara's commercial mandate may expose the state budget to significant risks without robust governance, an area where Indonesia's infrastructure projects have historically fallen short. The move follows a regulatory amendment that allows Danantara to create investment holding companies dedicated to national development, marking a shift from its original mandate to maximise returns without relying on state budget funding.

Komnas HAM Urges Ceasefire in Papua Amid Escalating Violence

Indonesia's National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) has called for an immediate ceasefire between security forces and armed groups in Papua following a series of deadly incidents. The commission highlighted the vulnerability of civilians caught in the crossfire, including the recent killing of a pregnant woman. Komnas HAM is also demanding full access to conduct independent investigations into the shootings.

Tax Revenue Accelerates, but Hundreds of Trillions in Restitution Pose a Burden

Indonesia's tax revenue grew 23% in the first half of 2026, reaching an estimated Rp1,061 trillion, driven by robust economic activity and improved tax administration. However, the government is alarmed by a surge in tax restitution claims, which reached Rp160 trillion in just four months and could hit Rp500 trillion for the full year. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa suspects foul play involving tax officials and has issued a new regulation tightening the rules for accelerated restitution to prevent potential state losses.

Resident Complaints Prompt Kampung Bali Clearance in Central Jakarta

The Kampung Bali sub-district office in Central Jakarta has stated that the planned eviction of seven semi-permanent structures was triggered by repeated public complaints via the Cepat Respon Masyarakat (CRM) system. The buildings were found to be illegally occupying public facilities and waterways, causing blocked drains and unsanitary conditions. Authorities aim to restore the function of the public space and create a more orderly environment.

Govt oversees preparation for UGGp renewal assessment in Belitong

The Indonesian government is intensifying efforts to address UNESCO's recommendations for the Belitong Geopark after it received a yellow card status during its first renewal assessment. Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana stressed the need for concrete action, including strengthening management, finalising regulations, and enhancing community readiness. The geopark, designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2021, must implement improvements within two years to secure its long-term sustainability and green status.

Three Corporations Face Sentencing Hearing in TaniHub Corruption Case

Three corporate entities are facing a sentencing hearing at the Jakarta Corruption Court over alleged corruption in the management of investment funds at PT Tani Group Indonesia (TaniHub) between 2019 and 2023. The companies are accused of causing state losses amounting to USD 25 million, or approximately Rp364.22 billion, by enriching several individuals and affiliated entities. Six individual defendants in the same case have already been convicted and sentenced to prison terms ranging from two to nine years.

Viral Video Shows Unknown Assailants Burning Resident's Fence in Depok, Police Investigate

A video showing two unidentified individuals setting fire to a residential fence in Bojongsari, Depok, has gone viral on social media. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning and was discovered by the homeowner's grandchild. Local police have confirmed they are investigating the arson, having processed the crime scene and interviewed witnesses.

BMKG Warns of Waves up to 2.5 Metres in Southeast Sulawesi Waters Until 9 July

The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has issued a warning for fishermen and marine transport operators in Southeast Sulawesi regarding high waves reaching up to 2.5 metres. The alert is in effect from 6 to 9 July 2026, with wind speeds potentially reaching 20 knots. The agency has highlighted specific high-risk areas, including the waters off Baubau and Wakatobi, and urged the public to monitor official weather updates.

DPD Papua Special Committee Focuses on Security and Public Safety

The Regional Representative Council's (DPD) Papua Special Committee is prioritising the security and comfort of Papuan communities following recent violent incidents. The committee aims to bridge community anxieties and formulate comprehensive policy recommendations to address the root causes of conflict, including the rights of displaced vulnerable groups.

House Commission VIII Open to Proposed LGBT Criminalisation Bill

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission VIII has indicated it is open to discussing a proposed bill that would criminalise LGBT activities, following a push by the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI). The commission's chairman stated that while no internal discussions have taken place, the proposal could be considered if accompanied by a proper academic study. This comes as the government has already classified the spread of LGBT culture as a non-military threat in a recent presidential regulation.

Nutritionist explains effect of eating fruit before bed on blood sugar

Consuming fruit at night generally does not cause significant blood sugar spikes in healthy individuals, according to nutritionists. However, people with diabetes or insulin resistance may experience different responses, and experts recommend pairing fruit with protein or healthy fats to help stabilise glucose levels.

DPD Forms Special Committee to Address Conflict and Humanitarian Issues in Papua

Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD) has established a Special Committee (Pansus) to tackle ongoing conflict and humanitarian concerns in Papua. The committee, chaired by DPD Deputy Speaker Yorrys Raweyai, will focus on civilian casualties and security disturbances caused by various parties. The Pansus aims to bridge community anxieties and address perceived injustices in the region.

Philippines Openly Counters China with Major Military Base Expansion Plan

The Philippine Air Force has announced a significant upgrade of military facilities on disputed islands in the South China Sea, alongside the acquisition of new patrol aircraft and helicopters. The move is a direct response to escalating tensions with Beijing and aims to enhance Manila's monitoring and response capabilities. Analysts suggest the build-up, supported by the US, is a strategic posture to contain China rather than a direct preparation for war.

IHSG Weakens 0.18% in First Session to 5,864 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 0.18% to 5,864.97 in the first trading session on Monday, influenced by mixed Asian markets and anticipation of the Federal Reserve's meeting minutes. The decline was led by the energy sector, while the market also weighed OPEC+ production dynamics and fluctuating global oil prices.

OJK Receives Over 608,000 Financial Sector Fraud Reports in 20 Months

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has recorded more than 608,000 reports of fraud in the financial sector over a 20-month period, a figure it believes represents only the tip of the iceberg. Through the Indonesia Anti-Scam Centre, authorities have blocked over 557,000 bank accounts and secured approximately Rp 674 billion in funds, returning nearly Rp 200 billion to victims. The OJK stressed that robust anti-money laundering measures are crucial to disrupt illicit financial flows and maintain public trust in the financial system.

UMS and UKM Malaysia Focus on Strengthening International Collaboration to Boost Global Competitiveness

Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) is deepening its strategic partnership with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) through a benchmarking visit aimed at enhancing research, publication, and internationalisation. The collaboration, ongoing since 2018, has already yielded 67 joint Scopus-indexed publications. Both institutions have agreed to expand cooperation through lecturer exchange programmes and shared editorial roles in academic journals.

Timika Diocese Urges Government to Evaluate Security Approach in Intan Jaya

The Justice and Peace Secretariat of the Timika Diocese has called on the Indonesian government to reassess its security strategy in Intan Jaya, Papua, following a recent escalation in armed conflict. The organisation has documented at least nine violent incidents since mid-June, including the death of a pregnant woman, and is demanding the formation of an independent investigation team. The secretariat insists that civilian protection and human rights must be the priority in any security policy.

KPK Investigates Origin of 55 kg Platinum Found During Langkat Regent's Arrest

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the origin of 55 kilograms of platinum discovered in the vehicle of Langkat Regent Syah Afandin during a sting operation. The anti-graft body will use expert analysis to verify the authenticity of the metal, which is an unusual find in corruption cases. Afandin was previously named a suspect for allegedly accepting Rp 800 million in bribes and Rp 3.5 billion in gratuities related to project fees.

Two Santri Burn Victims in Lombok Rack Up Rp19 Million in Medical Debt

Two students injured in a boarding school arson attack in Central Lombok have accumulated Rp19 million in hospital debt. Their BPJS health insurance cannot be used because the case is under criminal investigation, though the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has stepped in as a guarantor. The local government is coordinating with the National Alms Agency (Baznas) and BPJS to ensure their treatment continues.

Marines sharpen amphibious vehicle driving skills

The Indonesian Marine Corps conducted amphibious driving exercises for its personnel using LVT 7 A1 vehicles in South Jakarta. The training aimed to ensure soldiers can operate the weapon systems according to standard procedures while prioritising personnel and material safety. The drills are part of efforts to maintain readiness for national security missions.

House Opens Door to Drafting LGBT Bill: If Academic Paper Allows, It Can Be Proposed

The Indonesian House of Representatives has signalled it is open to drafting a bill on LGBT issues, provided a supporting academic study justifies the need for such regulation. Commission VIII Chairman Marwan Dasopang stated that any legislative proposal must follow established mechanisms, including a thorough academic review and public consultation. The remarks come amid renewed public debate following a presidential regulation that classifies the spread of LGBT culture as a non-military threat.

Official School Uniform Regulations for Primary, Secondary, and High Schools from Kemendikdasmen

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has formalised national uniform regulations for students across all levels ahead of the new academic year. The rules, detailed in Permendikbudristek Number 50 of 2022, specify colours, cuts, and accessories for primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary school uniforms. The guidelines also include provisions for Muslim students to wear hijabs and long-sleeved shirts in matching colours.

Cyber Security and Resilience Bill Deemed Necessary for Public Data Protection

Indonesia's parliament and government have initiated a Cyber Security and Resilience Bill to bolster national digital sovereignty, with a working committee now formed to deliberate the draft. A leading cyber security researcher has stressed that the bill must clearly delineate institutional authority to prevent overlap and harmonise with existing laws. The urgency is underscored by 5.5 billion cyber attacks recorded in 2025, highlighting the vulnerability of public services and the absence of a mandated personal data protection agency.

DPR and Government to Discuss 2027 Hajj Cost Increase

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah are scheduled to meet to discuss the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage costs, which are predicted to rise. Officials cite factors such as increased prices in Saudi Arabia, a weakening rupiah, and changes to service categories as reasons for the potential hike. The government is exploring ways to mitigate the increase, including negotiating with Saudi authorities to reduce certain operational expenses.

House Commission VIII Chair Warns of 'Major Threat' if LGBT Becomes Widespread in Indonesia

Marwan Dasopang, Chairman of House Commission VIII, has stated that the proliferation of LGBT behaviour poses a serious threat to Indonesia's future generations and national continuity. He labelled it a 'disease' and a 'deviation' that should not be tolerated or displayed publicly, suggesting legislative measures and 'healing' approaches may be necessary.

Seven illegal buildings in Central Jakarta's Kampung Bali to be dismantled

Authorities in Kampung Bali, Central Jakarta, are preparing to demolish seven semi-permanent structures built on public land. The local government has completed administrative procedures, including issuing three warning letters, and is awaiting the final execution. The action aims to restore public facilities and improve the neighbourhood environment following community complaints.

Papua Sends 124 Students to Five Provinces Under ADEM Programme

The Papua provincial government has dispatched 124 indigenous junior high school graduates to continue their education in five Indonesian provinces under the Affirmation of Secondary Education (ADEM) programme. The students will attend senior high and vocational schools in Central Java, West Java, East Java, Banten, and Bali. Officials emphasised the programme's role in expanding access to quality education and urged participants to focus on their studies and uphold their region's reputation.

NU's 35th Congress Must Elect Rais Aam Based on Religious Scholarship

Ahead of Nahdlatul Ulama's 35th Congress in August 2026, HRM Khalilur R Abdullah Sahlawy has urged the organisation to select its supreme leader, the Rais Aam, based purely on religious scholarship and integrity rather than political considerations. He emphasised that the congress marks NU's first gathering in its second century and must reaffirm the organisation's identity as a religious body rooted in Ahlussunnah wal Jamaah traditions. The call underscores a desire to maintain the spiritual authority of the role by ensuring the elected figure embodies deep mastery of Islamic jurisprudence, theology, and Sufism.

Building food self-sufficiency through three collaborative networks

Indonesia's pursuit of food self-sufficiency requires a comprehensive, integrated approach beyond just increasing production. The state logistics agency Bulog is expanding its role from distribution to supporting farmers at the upstream level by absorbing harvests at government-mandated prices. A multi-stakeholder collaboration involving farmers, government, and businesses is deemed essential to address complex challenges like climate change and farmer regeneration.

China Estimated to Have Over 500 J-20 Stealth Jets, Raising Concerns in the US and Its Allies

China's People's Liberation Army Air Force is now estimated to operate more than 500 J-20 stealth fighter jets, a production scale that is shifting the military balance in the Indo-Pacific. Analysts suggest this fleet size allows Beijing to sustain prolonged air operations, challenging the West's traditional reliance on technological superiority. The development has reignited concerns among US military officials, who have previously acknowledged the J-20's impressive command and control capabilities.

Man Repeatedly Begging with 'Out of Petrol' Ruse Sent to Social Home

A man in North Jakarta has been sent to a social rehabilitation centre after repeatedly begging from motorists by falsely claiming he had run out of petrol. The Kelapa Gading Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) acted on public complaints, noting the individual had been caught at least twice before. Officials warned that such actions disrupt public order, worsen traffic congestion, and endanger road users.

UB Students' Research on Gunung Kawi Rituals Sparks Controversy

A study by Brawijaya University students investigating the link between pesugihan rituals and mental health near Gunung Kawi has ignited a dispute with the site's official management. The preliminary findings suggested a correlation between the rituals and psychosis, but the Pesarean Gunung Kawi foundation objected, stating the research conflated their religious tourism site with a separate location and damaged their reputation. Both parties have since met to clarify the distinction between the sites and agree on revisions to the research's terminology.

Video: Unpacking the Reasons Behind the Plunge in Broiler Chicken Prices Amidst the Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The government's Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme has boosted demand for chicken and eggs by 16 per cent, yet broiler prices at the farm level have collapsed. PT Janu Putra Sejahtera (AYAM) notes that while it supplies the programme, the volumes absorbed are minimal compared to its massive production capacity, leaving the core issue of oversupply unresolved.

Ministry of Creative Economy and APPMI Partner to Boost National Fashion as Economic Driver

The Ministry of Creative Economy is collaborating with the Indonesian Fashion Designers and Entrepreneurs Association (APPMI) to accelerate the national fashion sector's role as a key economic driver. The partnership will focus on facilitating designer incubation, improving product quality, and mapping export potential ahead of Indonesia Fashion Week 2026. The event aims to strengthen the domestic supply chain and expand international market access for Indonesian creative products.

TTU DPRD Chairman Questioned by Police Over Death of Doctor Icha

The chairman of the Timor Tengah Utara (TTU) Regional House of Representatives, Kristoforus Efi, has been questioned by police regarding the death of Dr. Eliza Princila Utami Pakaenoni, known as Dr. Icha. The doctor died following depression allegedly caused by intimidation from three DPRD members and a veterinarian. The case is being investigated under the new Criminal Code, with suspects facing up to seven years in prison for torture.

Not Just Species Count: Healthy Ecosystems Desperately Need Predators

A new global study challenges the conventional focus of conservation on species quantity, revealing that the presence of predators is far more critical for ecosystem health. Researchers found that removing top-level predators causes a drastic decline in environmental function, even if the number of other species remains high. The findings urge a paradigm shift in conservation policy towards protecting complete food webs, especially apex predators.

Government Raises IDR 270 Trillion from Global Bonds in First Half of 2026

The Indonesian government successfully raised approximately IDR 270 trillion through a series of global bond issuances in the first half of 2026. The transactions included US Dollar, Euro, Chinese Renminbi, and Japanese Yen-denominated bonds, including a fourth Blue Bond issuance. The strong demand from global investors underscores confidence in Indonesia's economic fundamentals and fiscal management.