Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 9 July 2026

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OJK Vows No Hesitation in Taking Action Against Financial Service Providers Harming Consumers

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has affirmed its commitment to taking firm action against financial service providers that harm consumers and undermine sector integrity. The regulator is strengthening risk-based supervision and coordination with law enforcement to accelerate responses to such cases. This stance is exemplified by the ongoing prosecution of PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife, which misused customer funds for personal gain.

North Jakarta Clears Kites Snagged in 17 Trees Along Sunter River

The North Jakarta Parks and Forestry Sub-agency has cleared 17 trees along the Sunter River that were heavily littered with snagged kites. The cleanup, which involved pruning branches at heights of 10 to 12 metres, was carried out in response to a viral social media video. Officials urged the public to help maintain green spaces to keep them safe and tidy.

Islamic Boarding School Teacher in Sidoarjo Named Suspect in Rape of Underage Student

A 30-year-old Islamic boarding school teacher in Sidoarjo, East Java, has been arrested for allegedly raping an 11-year-old female student multiple times. The suspect, identified as UJF, is accused of exploiting his position to assault the victim in a warehouse on the school's premises between September and December 2025. Police have detained the man and charged him under child protection laws, which carry a maximum sentence of 12 years.

Prabowo: B50 Success a Result of Cross-Administration Policy Relay

President Prabowo Subianto has attributed the successful implementation of the B50 biodiesel mandate to a continuous policy relay spanning multiple presidencies, beginning with Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in 2008. He stressed that the achievement was a collaborative effort involving various government ministries and stakeholders in the energy and palm oil sectors. Prabowo called for an end to mutual disparagement, emphasising that policy continuity is essential for national development.

AGO Respects Police Investigation into Three Corruption Cases

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has stated it respects the ongoing police investigation involving searches related to three major corruption cases. The cases under joint investigation include alleged corruption at PLN, ASABRI, and a debt settlement case involving a subsidiary of Krakatau Steel. Police have seized evidence including gold bars and hundreds of billions of rupiah, with President Prabowo Subianto reportedly giving the investigations his direct attention.

Attorney General's Office Responds to Police Investigation into Coal-Asabri Case and Safe Seizure

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has issued a formal statement regarding the National Police's investigation into alleged corruption in coal governance and its links to Asabri. The police recently conducted raids and seized a safe containing cash and gold bars. The AGO stated it respects the ongoing police investigation and urged the public to refrain from drawing premature conclusions.

PVMBG Reveals Anak Krakatau Volcano Has Never Reached 'Awas' Status

The Centre for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) has clarified that Mount Anak Krakatau has never reached the highest alert level of 'Awas' (Level IV), remaining at 'Siaga' (Level III) even during the deadly 2018 tsunami. Officials noted that the current tsunami threat is significantly lower than in 2018 due to the volcano's reduced height. Eruptive activity remains fluctuating, with no eruptions recorded on the day of the report.

5 Facts on Alleged Santri Burning Case in Central Lombok: Pesantren Wash Their Hands of It, Cancelled Visit to Denny Sumargo

The investigation into a fire that killed one student and injured two others at a pesantren in Central Lombok has been elevated to the prosecution stage. The incident occurred in late 2025 when students were burning petrol to bend wood for a catapult, leading to a fatal blaze. The pesantren has reportedly distanced itself from the case, and a planned meeting with public figure Denny Sumargo was cancelled.

Perbanas Warns of Money Laundering Risks if PFII Is Not Properly Regulated

The Indonesian Banks Association (Perbanas) has cautioned that the planned International Financial Centre (PFII) could increase risks of money laundering and tax avoidance without a robust regulatory framework. While supporting the initiative, Perbanas stressed that the PFII must attract additive foreign capital rather than merely recycling domestic funds. The association also highlighted the need for the centre to boost national banking competitiveness, drawing parallels to the industry's growth following the entry of foreign banks in the late 1960s.

Google Introduces 'Video Remix' to Help Users Transform Videos with AI

Google has launched a new AI-powered feature called Video Remix within Google Photos, enabling users to creatively edit their video clips with ease. The tool, powered by the Gemini Omni model, allows for cinematic relighting, background replacement, and artistic style effects. The feature is rolling out to eligible Google AI Plus, Pro, and Ultra subscribers in several countries, including Indonesia.

Environmentally Friendly Buildings Can Boost Urban Resilience to Climate Crisis

The Green Building Council Indonesia (GBCI) emphasised the strategic role of green buildings in creating climate-resilient cities during its Annual Community Gathering 2026. The forum brought together government, industry, and academics to discuss integrating green building standards and international practices to reduce carbon emissions and improve urban quality of life. GBCI also introduced its 2026 agenda, including the Indonesia Green Building Festival, and implemented a carbon offset programme for the event itself.

Police to be investigated: How many SPPG units does Polri have?

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) manages 1,376 Nutritional Service Units (SPPG) supporting the free nutritious meal programme, making it one of the largest institutional networks. This has come under scrutiny following the naming of a police brigadier general as a corruption suspect in the programme. The units, which represent 4.6 per cent of the national total, are projected to serve 3.44 million beneficiaries once fully operational.

DPR Member Urges State Institutions to Operate Within Their Mandates Amid Coal Corruption Probe

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for all state institutions to adhere strictly to their legal functions, particularly regarding an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in coal procurement. The legislator emphasised that law enforcement must be left to the authorities, while other bodies, including the military, should focus on their constitutional duties to maintain national stability. The statement follows controversy over the military's role in securing a senior prosecutor's residence.

South Korea's Supreme Court Upholds Prison Sentence for Ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol

South Korea's Supreme Court has confirmed a prison sentence for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, marking the first ruling against him by the nation's highest court. Yoon was previously sentenced to seven years in prison by an appellate court for obstructing arrest following his failed martial law declaration in December 2024. The embattled former leader faces multiple charges, including a separate 30-year sentence for abuse of power and aiding the enemy by sending drones over Pyongyang.

President Prabowo Launches B50 Biodiesel Programme

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the B50 mandatory biodiesel programme, requiring a 50 percent blend of biodiesel in diesel fuel. The initiative aims to reduce Indonesia's reliance on fuel imports, enhance the value of domestic natural resources, and bolster national economic and energy security.

SIBS 2026 opens investment and cooperation opportunities between Selangor and West Java

The Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) ASEAN 2026 forum in Bandung aims to boost investment and economic ties between Selangor, Malaysia, and West Java. Selangor's Menteri Besar emphasised that the cooperation should extend beyond business to include culture, sovereignty, and security. West Java's Deputy Governor expressed interest in learning from Malaysia's success in developing the Islamic economy.

VKTR Shares Recommended as Buy, Here Are 5 Reasons Its Prospects Remain Bright

Ciptadana Sekuritas has initiated coverage of PT VKTR Teknologi Mobilitas Tbk with a 'Buy' recommendation and a target price of Rp900, reflecting an 80 per cent upside. The positive outlook is driven by the company's first-mover advantage in Indonesia's commercial electric vehicle assembly market and its stable autoparts business. Key catalysts include the planned electrification of TransJakarta's fleet and the company's existing production capacity of 3,000 units per year.

BGN says shattered glass at headquarters caused by thermal expansion

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has clarified that shattered glass at its Central Jakarta headquarters was caused by thermal expansion, not gunfire as speculated on social media. Police and building management confirmed similar incidents have occurred repeatedly since 2018 due to temperature differences between the air-conditioned interior and hot exterior. Staff continue to work as normal and no evacuation was ordered.

KPK: Former MPR Secretary-General Ma'ruf Cahyono Received Rp 30 Billion in Gratuities

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained former MPR Secretary-General Ma'ruf Cahyono for allegedly receiving gratuities totalling Rp 30 billion. The illicit funds were linked to procurement projects at the MPR Secretariat between 2016 and 2023, where Cahyono allegedly appointed himself to key budgetary roles. The KPK claims he used an intermediary to collect a 10% 'fee' from contractors and received billions more through a nominee trading account.

RI sends high-level delegation to honor Iran's late Supreme Leader

Indonesia has dispatched a high-level delegation to Tehran to attend the state funeral of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following an invitation from the Iranian government. The visit will include bilateral meetings between Foreign Minister Sugiono and his Iranian counterpart, as well as parliamentary talks, aimed at strengthening cooperation and inter-parliamentary ties. The delegation, which includes representatives from Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah, underscores the close bilateral relationship and Indonesia's consistent independent and active foreign policy.

Bahlil: Without Pertamina, B50 Fuel Programme Would Not Run

Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has stated that the newly launched B50 biodiesel programme would be impossible without state energy firm Pertamina, which refines 80 per cent of the required fatty acid methyl ester. The mandatory 50 per cent palm oil blend in diesel was officially launched by President Prabowo Subianto, marking a significant acceleration from the previous B40 standard. Bahlil noted the policy was driven by a presidential directive to achieve energy sovereignty, with testing showing the B50 blend outperforms its predecessor.

Long Before Chinese Paper Became Popular, Papyrus Dominated from the Pharaonic Era to Islamic Rule

Ancient Egypt pioneered the use of papyrus as a writing material as early as 2500 BCE, long before other civilisations. This versatile medium continued to be widely used for administrative and cultural purposes well into the Islamic period, proving more accessible and affordable than parchment. The article highlights papyrus's enduring legacy until the widespread adoption of Chinese papermaking technology in the second century Hijri.

2026 Teacher Professional Education Selection: Schedule and Registration Requirements

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has announced the opening of the 2026 Teacher Professional Education (PPG) selection for aspiring teachers. Registration will run from 27 June to 25 July 2026, with the selection process including administrative screening, a substantive test, and an interview. The programme is open to Indonesian citizens aged up to 32 with a minimum GPA of 3.00, aiming to produce professional and competent educators.

Golkar on PDIP's Stance as a Balancing Party: Let the People Judge

Golkar has responded to PDI Perjuangan's declaration of its role as a 'balancing party' to the Prabowo Subianto government, stating it respects the decision and will leave the public to judge. PDIP Chairwoman Megawati Soekarnoputri outlined the position in an internal letter, arguing that in a presidential system, the concept of a balancing party is more appropriate than formal opposition. She emphasised that the party's role is rooted in constitutional sovereignty and responsible oversight, rather than mere rejection of government policies.

Bahlil Mandates 10 Percent Ethanol-Blended Petrol by 2027

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has announced a mandatory bioethanol programme requiring petrol to be blended with 10 percent ethanol starting in 2027. The policy, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, will be implemented in stages and aims to replicate the success of the B50 biodiesel mandate. The government is also accelerating the development of integrated bioethanol plants, particularly in Lampung, to secure domestic feedstock supply.

EU climate monitor: Western Europe records hottest June

The EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service reported that June 2026 was the hottest June on record for Western Europe, with temperatures averaging 20.74°C, more than 3°C above the 1991-2020 average. The extreme heatwave, which followed an intense May heatwave, contributed to heat-related fatalities and underscored the increasing frequency and severity of such events. Globally, it was the second-warmest June on record, while average sea surface temperatures also hit a new high for the month.

Residents Fearful as Murder of 'Man Colik' in Klungkung Remains Unsolved

Residents of Pesona Lepang housing complex in Klungkung, Bali, are living in fear following the brutal murder of local food vendor I Nyoman Cita, known as Man Colik. The crime scene is the sole access road for the community, and the fact that the perpetrator remains at large has heightened anxiety, forcing residents to stay indoors after dark. Police are under pressure to solve the case after the victim was found floating in a river with stab wounds and his gold necklace missing.

Said Iqbal Says Manpower Minister Gives Positive Signal on 0 Percent JHT Tax

Presidential Special Adviser Said Iqbal has indicated that Manpower Minister Yassierli supports a zero percent tax rate on Old Age Security (JHT) payouts. The proposal suggests a 0 percent final income tax for withdrawals up to IDR 50 million, with the minister set to discuss the matter with the Finance Minister. The government is also being urged to review progressive tax mechanisms for workers making multiple JHT claims due to repeated layoffs.

Prabowo urges leaders not to fear insults and criticism

President Prabowo Subianto has called on leaders to remain undeterred by criticism, insults, or slander as long as they act with integrity for the people's benefit. Speaking at the B50 biodiesel mandate launch in Karawang, he argued that only those who do, say, and are nothing avoid criticism. He urged his administration to stay focused on solving public problems and not be swayed by efforts to undermine optimism, citing the planned 100-gigawatt solar power project as an initiative likely to face scrutiny.

South Sulawesi Exceeds LP2B Target, Secures 587,423 Hectares from Conversion

South Sulawesi has surpassed the national target for Sustainable Food Agricultural Land (LP2B), securing 587,423 hectares or 88.92% of its total rice fields. This achievement places the province ahead of the national medium-term development plan (RPJMN) target set for 2029.

Minister Bahlil Guarantees B50 Biodiesel Suitable for Asian and European Vehicle Engines

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured that the B50 biodiesel blend is compatible with engines from both Asian and European manufacturers, following successful trials. The announcement came as President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the mandatory B50 programme in Karawang, West Java. The policy aims to reduce fuel imports and strengthen national energy security.

IDX Opens Possibility of Revising IPO Target This Year

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is considering revising its target of 50 initial public offerings for 2026, as only six companies have listed by early July. Despite high market volatility, the exchange remains optimistic about attracting new listings if investor confidence is restored and geopolitical tensions ease. The IDX is also prioritising the quality of listed companies over quantity as part of its market integrity reforms.

Health Ministry's Plain Packaging Rules Overstep Industrial Authority, DPR Warns

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) and labour unions have voiced strong opposition to the Health Ministry's plan to enforce plain packaging for tobacco products, arguing it oversteps the Industry Ministry's authority. Critics warn the regulation threatens the livelihoods of millions of workers in a sector that contributes over Rp 221 trillion in state revenue. The policy, part of Government Regulation No. 28/2024, is feared to further pressure an industry already facing stringent fiscal rules.

BrahMos deal boosts Indonesia's defense industry: Lemhannas

Indonesia's acquisition of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system is expected to significantly enhance the nation's domestic defense industry through technology transfer. The deal, formalised during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit, is seen as a crucial step in upgrading local human resources and mastering advanced defense systems. The partnership also includes a separate agreement for air-to-air missile procurement, marking a deepening of bilateral defense ties.

Megawati Receives Highest Honour from Timor-Leste Government

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri was awarded the Grande Colar da Ordem de Timor-Leste, the nation's highest civilian honour, by President José Ramos-Horta. The award recognises her pivotal role in strengthening bilateral relations and her democratic statesmanship during Indonesia's reform era. Megawati described the honour as a symbol of the enduring and unbroken friendship between the two nations.

Following Bupati Eman's Directive, Department Head Abdul Ghoni Pursues Rp3.6 T Investment Target

The Majalengka Regency Investment and One-Stop Integrated Service (DPMPTSP) is accelerating efforts to meet its 2026 investment target of Rp3.6 trillion, having already secured Rp2.29 trillion in the first half of the year. This push follows a directive from Bupati H. Eman Suherman to boost economic growth through investment. Officials are urging businesses to submit their investment reports to ensure accurate data and maximise the multiplier effect on local employment and purchasing power.

Prabowo: Indonesia Leads Carbon Emission Reduction with B50 Biodiesel Launch

President Prabowo Subianto has declared Indonesia a global leader in carbon emission reduction following the launch of the B50 biodiesel mandate in Karawang, West Java. The programme is projected to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 44.9 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent in 2026 while saving the state up to Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange. The President also announced plans for a 100 gigawatt solar power plant, with construction of the first 17 GW to begin this year.

Government Launches SRUK to Strengthen Indonesia's Carbon Trading

The Indonesian government has launched the Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK) to enhance transparency and accountability in carbon trading. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan stated the system is mandated by Presidential Regulation No. 110 of 2025 and is designed to be interoperable with international carbon registries. The forestry sector has already commenced trading, with four transactions completed prior to the official launch.

Trump Calls Wave of US Strikes on Iran 'Retaliation'

President Donald Trump has described the latest wave of US strikes on Iran as retaliation for attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The escalation follows a fragile ceasefire and comes amid contradictory signals from Washington about the scope of military action. Iranian officials have warned that further US strikes will be met with severe consequences and insist the strategic waterway will only reopen under Iranian terms.

President Reveals BRIN Discovers Massive Gold and Mineral Reserves in Papua

President Prabowo Subianto has announced that a scientific expedition led by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has uncovered substantial gold and mineral deposits in the mountains of Papua. The discovery, made with support from universities and the Indonesian military, is viewed as a significant asset for the nation's future economic prospects. The President emphasised the government's commitment to optimising natural resource management for public prosperity while continuing to combat corruption and illegal resource smuggling.

Unpatti Designs Instalment Scheme for Tuition Fees to Assist Underprivileged Students

Pattimura University (Unpatti) in Ambon is developing a tuition fee instalment scheme in collaboration with banks to ease the financial burden on students from low-income families. The university is also planning to provide incentives, such as tuition subsidies, for high-achieving students from disadvantaged backgrounds. These initiatives aim to broaden access to higher education and prevent students from dropping out due to financial constraints.

Khamenei's Body Flown to Mashhad Under Fighter Jet Escort for Burial

The body of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has arrived in the holy city of Mashhad for burial, transported from Iraq under military fighter jet escort. The final funeral rites conclude days of mass processions across Iran and Iraq, with millions of mourners reported to have paid their respects. The burial takes place amid heightened military tensions, as Iran and the United States engage in renewed exchanges of fire following the collapse of a ceasefire.

Indonesia ends diesel imports with mandatory B50 biodiesel rollout

Indonesia has ceased diesel imports following the implementation of the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme, which requires a 50 percent biofuel blend. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the policy eliminates the need for 3 to 4 million kilolitres of annual diesel imports, marking a significant step towards national energy sovereignty. The government expects the mandate to enhance the value of domestic natural resources while bolstering economic resilience.

Prabowo Highlights Culture of Undervaluing National Achievements

President Prabowo Subianto has identified a cultural tendency to undervalue domestic achievements as a key obstacle to Indonesia's progress. He suggested this attitude may stem from a colonial-era inferiority complex and manifests as a 'crab mentality' where people pull others down. The President urged the public to appreciate national successes and strengthen cooperation to support strategic programmes like the B50 biodiesel mandate.

IESR: B50 Implementation Can Reduce Dependence on Diesel Imports

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) has stated that Indonesia's B50 biodiesel mandate can help improve the country's trade balance by cutting diesel imports. CEO Fabby Tumiwa noted that while beneficial, the policy should be complemented by electrification and fuel economy standards for long-term energy independence. President Prabowo Subianto launched the mandatory B50 programme in Karawang, describing it as a step towards energy sovereignty.

Constitutional Court Responds to MPR Involvement in Constitutional Interpretation

The Constitutional Court (MK) has confirmed a meeting with leaders of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) to discuss a memorandum of understanding regarding the MPR's involvement in constitutional interpretation. MK spokesperson Enny Nurbaningsih stated that the MPR can provide relevant information under Article 54 of the Constitutional Court Law. MPR Chairman Ahmad Muzani explained the agreement aims to ensure the MPR, as the body that formulated the constitution, is consulted before the court makes decisions on constitutional interpretation.

Jakarta Governor Seeks to Prioritise Orphans Yet to Receive KJP

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has called for orphans who have not yet received the Jakarta Smart Card (KJP) to be prioritised for the educational assistance programme. Speaking at a Muharram charity event, he expressed hope that all 150 orphans present would become KJP recipients. The governor envisions the KJP as a stepping stone towards higher education, potentially leading to the Jakarta Superior Student Card (KJMU) and even LPDP Jakarta scholarships.

DPR Member: IDR 67.5 Billion Seizure Shows Seriousness in Coal Corruption Case

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has praised the police for seizing IDR 67.5 billion in cash from a café and a money changer in South Jakarta, viewing it as proof of law enforcement's commitment to tackling corruption. The funds are suspected to be linked to a coal supply corruption case involving state-owned enterprises PLN, Asabri, and Krakatau Steel. The legislator urged the police to continue their investigation professionally and transparently, while calling on all parties to avoid interfering with the legal process.

Kaesang-Affiliated Shrimp Company PMMP Struggles with Debt and Layoffs

PT Panca Mitra Multiperdana (PMMP), a shrimp processing company affiliated with Kaesang Pangarep, is facing severe financial difficulties, forcing it to lay off staff and reduce operations to a single plant. The company requires US$15 million in working capital and has accumulated US$160.1 million in bank debt, while its total liabilities of US$259.8 million have exceeded its total assets.

GMS Church Complains Bantul Permit Process Stalled for a Month

The GMS Church in Bantul has complained that its permit process has stalled for a month, as the local government has yet to issue a required Keterangan Rencana Kota (KRK) document. The Bantul administration maintains the church has not completed the necessary Sertifikat Laik Fungsi (SLF) and Persetujuan Bangunan Gedung (PBG) requirements. The church insists it has fulfilled all requested requirements and is awaiting the KRK to proceed with the SLF.

1.85 Million Tax Delinquents Receive Warning Emails from DJP

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes has dispatched reminder emails to 1,853,654 taxpayers with outstanding tax debts. The initiative employs a behavioural insight approach adopted from countries including the United States and the United Kingdom. Taxpayers are urged to verify the official domain and settle their dues via the Coretax system to avoid sanctions.

Prabowo Warns Against 'Crab Mentality', Says Indonesia Must Overcome Colonial Hangover of Pulling Each Other Down

President Prabowo Subianto has criticized the persistent 'crab mentality' among Indonesians, describing it as a tendency to pull down those who are succeeding. Speaking at the B50 biodiesel launch in Karawang, he suggested this behavior stems from a colonial hangover and a sense of inferiority. Prabowo urged the nation to abandon envy and internal sabotage to face increasingly fierce global competition.

Indonesia Officially Launches Carbon Unit Registry System

The Indonesian government has officially launched the Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK) to enhance governance and accelerate carbon trading. The scheme is designed to ensure benefits reach local communities managing social and customary forests, not just large corporations. The government projects the initiative could attract up to 5.8 billion US dollars in green investment and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Indonesian diaspora's trail at the world's largest aerospace company

Two Indonesian diaspora members, Alvary Ferdian and Zee Abigail, have built successful careers at Boeing's Everett facility in Washington, USA, highlighting the value of continuous learning and adaptability. Despite their different backgrounds, both credit specialised training at the Washington Aerospace Training and Research Center for opening doors to the aerospace industry. They hope their journeys will inspire more Indonesians, particularly women, to pursue opportunities in global manufacturing.

Terima Kunjungan Tony Blair, Danantara Tegaskan Indonesia Siap Jembatani Investor

Kunjungan mantan Perdana Menteri Inggris Tony Blair ke kantor Danantara di Jakarta menandai momentum strategis untuk memperkuat iklim investasi Indonesia. CEO Danantara Rosan P. Roeslani menyatakan bahwa minat tinggi investor global, yang disampaikan oleh Blair, menegaskan posisi Indonesia sebagai tujuan utama investasi dan Danantara sebagai pintu masuk yang kredibel. Pertemuan tersebut membahas kolaborasi untuk mempercepat transformasi BUMN dan merealisasikan proyek strategis, sejalan dengan realisasi investasi triwulan I 2026 yang tumbuh 7,2 persen menjadi Rp498,8 triliun.

Day 10 of Jatiwaringin Landfill Fire, Hotspots Reduced to 5 Percent

Firefighting efforts at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang, Banten, have contained the blaze to just 5 percent of the original 15-hectare fire zone after ten days. Authorities are deploying ground crews and water-bombing helicopters to extinguish remaining hotspots, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. The Bupati of Tangerang confirmed operations will continue until the fire is completely extinguished to prevent any recurrence.

Foreign Ministry: Visit by Foreign Minister, MPR Speaker, PBNU, and Muhammadiyah to Iran Strengthens Bilateral Ties

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the visit of the Foreign Minister, the Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), and representatives from Indonesia's largest Islamic organisations, PBNU and Muhammadiyah, to Iran is aimed at reinforcing bilateral relations. The delegation's presence is described as a representation of the Indonesian nation, reflecting the country's free and active foreign policy principles. The visit includes meetings intended to strengthen parliamentary ties and overall cooperation between the two nations.

Minister Bahlil guarantees B50 biodiesel suitable for Asian and European vehicles

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured that the B50 biodiesel blend is compatible with vehicles from both Asian and European manufacturers, citing successful tests on Toyota and Mercedes cars. The mandatory B50 programme, which requires a 50 percent biodiesel mix in diesel fuel, was officially launched by President Prabowo Subianto. The policy aims to reduce fuel imports and strengthen national energy security.

Prabowo rolls out B50 biodiesel program to boost energy sovereignty

President Prabowo Subianto has announced Indonesia's mandatory 50 percent palm oil-based biodiesel blend, making it the first country globally to implement such a policy. The B50 program aims to eliminate diesel imports, strengthen energy independence, and is projected to save up to Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange by 2026. The initiative is also expected to increase crude palm oil added value, sustain over two million jobs, and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Indonesia to expand coconut, CPO exports to Lebanon: minister

Indonesia is seeking to increase exports of coconut and crude palm oil to Lebanon following trade discussions between Agriculture Minister Amran and the Lebanese ambassador. The proposed partnership would see Indonesia supplying key tropical commodities to the import-dependent Mediterranean nation, while Lebanon offers olive oil in return. The move aligns with Indonesia's strategy to leverage its position as the world's top coconut and palm oil producer to strengthen bilateral trade surpluses.

Indonesia's Megawati receives Timor-Leste's highest state honor

Former Indonesian president Megawati Soekarnoputri was awarded the Grande Colar da Ordem de Timor-Leste by President José Ramos-Horta for her pivotal role in fostering friendship and diplomatic normalisation between the two nations. The ceremony highlighted her statesmanship during Indonesia's democratic transition and her support for Timor-Leste's UN-backed path to independence. Megawati described the honour as a mandate to ensure the bond between the countries endures across generations.

Megawati Receives Top Honour in Timor Leste, Stresses Friendship Between Nations

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri was awarded the Grande Colar da Ordem de Timor Leste, the country's highest honour, during a ceremony in Dili. The PDIP chairwoman, accompanied by senior party officials, held a bilateral meeting before the investiture at the Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace. In a message written in the official guest book, she expressed hope for the continued friendship and political ties between Indonesia and Timor Leste.

ESDM targets 225,000 homes for electricity under 2026 BPBL programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) aims to connect 225,000 households to electricity through the New Electricity Installation Assistance (BPBL) programme by the end of 2026, slightly down from an initial 250,000 target due to budget efficiency measures. The programme, funded by the state budget, has already provided connections to over 588,000 low-income households since 2022. The government plans to continue expanding access, targeting a total of 250,000 connections by 2028 and an additional 322,164 households in 2029.

Dieng Frost: Tourists Urged to Brace for Sub-Zero Temperatures

The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has advised tourists visiting the Dieng Plateau in Central Java to prepare for freezing temperatures and the phenomenon of ground frost, expected to peak in August. The frost, known locally as 'embun upas', typically occurs between July and September due to minimal cloud cover during the dry season. Visitors are urged to bring appropriate cold-weather clothing such as thick jackets, gloves, and socks.

Warning: Your Instagram Photos Could Be Used for AI Images, Here's How to Block It

Meta's new Muse Image AI model can generate images using public Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook photos without explicit consent, sparking privacy concerns. The feature is enabled by default for public accounts, allowing anyone to create AI images of users simply by mentioning their handle. Users are advised to adjust their privacy settings or switch to a private account to prevent their content from being used.

Government Rice Reserves Surpass 5.19 Million Tonnes, Exceeding First-Half 2026 Target

Indonesia's government rice reserves (CBP) reached 5.19 million tonnes as of early July 2026, significantly exceeding the semester target of 4 million tonnes. The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) reported the stockpile represents 129 percent of the goal, indicating a strong national food buffer. The achievement is attributed to the implementation of Presidential Instruction No. 4 of 2026, which governs domestic grain procurement and reserve management.

The Death of Organic Traffic: When AI Becomes the Gatekeeper of Business Decisions

The rise of large language models is fundamentally disrupting digital marketing by shifting user behaviour from clicking search links to accepting AI-curated answers. This structural change threatens traditional SEO investments, as zero-click searches surge and AI models prioritise third-party validation over owned content. Indonesian businesses, with their high AI adoption rates, are at the forefront of this shift, where brand visibility now depends on earning 'machine trust' through consistent, independent credibility signals.

Legislator Urges TNI, Police, and Prosecutors to Solidly Support Kortas Tipikor in Uncovering Coal Case

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has called for solid synergy between the police, military, and the Attorney General's Office to support the Corruption Eradication Corps in investigating a major coal corruption case. The case involves alleged manipulation of coal supply documents for power plants, causing an estimated state loss of Rp5 trillion and triggering blackouts across several regions. The legislator stressed that all citizens are equal before the law and demanded the harshest possible punishment for the perpetrators.

Indonesia Boosts Islamic Economic Cooperation for Halal Investment

Indonesia is strengthening economic ties with Muslim-majority nations to position its halal industry as a major driver of investment and trade. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa highlighted the D-8 Organisation for Economic Cooperation as a key platform for accelerating cross-border investment, while the halal value chain has contributed nearly Rp5,000 trillion to the economy in the past nine months. The government plans to host a larger international forum in September to reinforce Indonesia's role as a global halal ecosystem hub.

Criminal Law Professor Demands Thorough Investigation into Alleged Coal Supply Corruption

A prominent criminal law professor has urged the police's Corruption Eradication Corps to conduct a comprehensive and transparent investigation into alleged corruption in coal supply, which is suspected of causing widespread blackouts in Sumatra and other parts of Indonesia. He stressed that anyone involved, including state officials and law enforcement, must be held accountable and warned against obstruction of justice. The call aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's anti-corruption agenda and the police's commitment to professional law enforcement.

Prabowo Urged to Cleanse Law Enforcement Agencies

A political director has called on President Prabowo Subianto to fully support the police investigation into alleged corruption within the Attorney General's Office. The appeal follows public scrutiny over military personnel guarding the residence of a senior prosecutor after police reportedly found Rp476 billion and 74 kg of gold. The director insists Prabowo must prevent any obstruction of justice and order the withdrawal of soldiers to maintain public trust in law enforcement.

Many Civil Servants Suffer After Retirement, Here's Why

The head of Indonesia's National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has warned that many retired civil servants are experiencing financial hardship due to a drastic drop in income. The current salary structure, which relies heavily on allowances rather than a substantial basic salary, means pensions are significantly lower than active pay. This has led many civil servants to seek functional positions to delay retirement.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Heads Not to Furlough PPPK Workers

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed regional heads not to furlough government contract workers (PPPK), urging them to instead implement budget efficiencies to cover salary payments. The directive follows reports that the Tidore Islands city government was considering laying off 2,000 PPPK workers due to fiscal constraints caused by reduced central government transfers.

DPR Urges Home Affairs Ministry to Intervene as Regional Budgets Force Layoffs of Contract Civil Servants

The House of Representatives has called on the Ministry of Home Affairs to step in and resolve the growing issue of regional governments laying off Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK) due to budget constraints. Deputy Speaker Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal stressed that the central government must facilitate funding solutions and provide certainty, particularly for part-time PPPK workers awaiting clarity on their status. The appeal follows reports of thousands of PPPK in Tidore facing dismissal, highlighting concerns over fragile local fiscal capacity.

Setara Institute: TNI Must Not Become a Shield for Corruptors

The Setara Institute has urged President Prabowo Subianto to intervene following allegations that military personnel obstructed a corruption investigation. The human rights group warned that using the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to protect corrupt interests represents a dangerous abuse of power and undermines the rule of law. They called for a thorough investigation, public disclosure of findings, and strict sanctions against any members found to have interfered with law enforcement duties.

President Urged to Intervene as Military Accused of Obstructing Corruption Probe

The SETARA Institute has called on President Prabowo Subianto to take action after soldiers were allegedly involved in obstructing a police investigation into a corruption case. The military claims its personnel were providing official security for a senior prosecutor, but critics argue this represents a dangerous blurring of lines between state defence and law enforcement. The incident has sparked concerns over the expanding role of the military in civilian affairs and the potential for impunity.

MRT Jakarta Phase 2A Northbound Tunnel Fully Connected from Bundaran HI to Kota

PT MRT Jakarta has completed the 5.8-kilometre northbound tunnel for Phase 2A, linking Bundaran HI Station to Kota Station. The breakthrough occurred at Mangga Besar Station at a depth of 28 metres, marking a significant milestone in the project. The overall Phase 2A construction is now 61.8 percent complete, with the southbound tunnel and full project targeted for completion by the fourth quarter of 2026.

Megawati Emphasises Spirit of Reconciliation in Presidential Lecture in Timor-Leste

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri delivered a presidential lecture in Dili, stressing that Indonesia-Timor-Leste relations have moved beyond past conflicts towards a spirit of 'remembering without resentment and forgiving without forgetting'. She reflected on the emotional moment she witnessed the lowering of the Indonesian flag 24 years ago, framing it not as a separation but as the birth of a brotherly nation. Megawati also proposed strategic cooperation in research, women's leadership, and party politics, while urging the acceleration of border agreements and youth exchange programmes.

BAIC Bets on Indonesia, Targets 1,000 EV Sales with Local Assembly Plans

PT JIO Distribusi Indonesia is launching the BAIC T1 electric vehicle, aiming to sell 1,000 units by the end of 2026 and capture 16% of the national electric hatchback crossover market. The company is optimistic about the 78% growth in Indonesia's battery electric vehicle market and plans to begin local assembly with 60% domestic content by 2027. This move intensifies competition in the segment against rivals such as BYD, Aion, Wuling, and MG4.

Three Killed in West Bandung Mortar Explosion, Suspected of Scavenging Spent Ammunition

Three farmers in West Bandung Regency were killed when a suspected mortar round exploded while they were allegedly dismantling it for scrap. The victims were known to collect spent ammunition from a nearby military training area. Authorities have launched an investigation and warned residents against entering military zones or handling unexploded ordnance.

Sumenep expands tourism villages to support local economy

The Sumenep district government is expanding its tourism village programme from 27 to 50 villages, aiming to boost rural economies by capitalising on each village's unique natural and cultural assets. Development focuses on nature-based attractions, such as Lobuk Village's beach, and cultural heritage, exemplified by Aengtongtong Village's renowned keris craftsmanship, which is home to the world's largest concentration of traditional smiths. The initiative seeks to improve infrastructure and visitor experiences to attract more tourists and preserve local heritage.

Indonesian Delegation to Iran Pays Respects to Khamenei and Strengthens Bilateral Ties

An Indonesian delegation led by Foreign Minister Sugiono and MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani is visiting Iran to pay final respects to the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The visit also aims to bolster bilateral relations through meetings with Iran's Foreign Minister and Parliament Speaker. The delegation includes representatives from Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah, reflecting Indonesia's commitment to its free and active foreign policy.

Anak Krakatau on Alert, Officials Say Tsunami Potential is Low

Mount Anak Krakatau remains at Level III alert status with ongoing eruptions, but the Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation Centre (PVMBG) has stated the potential for a tsunami similar to the 2018 disaster is currently small. The volcano's height is now 157 metres, significantly lower than before the 2018 collapse, which reduces the risk of a large landslide-triggered wave. Authorities are maintaining a 3-kilometre exclusion zone and have prepared mitigation measures, including evacuation routes, should conditions change.

X to Send Direct Messages for Posts Corrected by Community Notes

Social media platform X is introducing a new measure to combat misinformation by sending direct messages to users whose posts receive a Community Notes correction. The notification will also be sent to users who have interacted with the flagged post, aiming to increase awareness of potentially misleading content. This move supplements existing notifications and comes as similar community-driven fact-checking models are adopted by other platforms like Meta.

Pramono Invites Orphans to Embrace New School Year with Renewed Spirit

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung launched a back-to-school programme for orphans, providing shopping vouchers and cash assistance to 150 children. The initiative, a collaboration with Baznas (Bazis) DKI Jakarta, marks the start of a wider Muharram programme targeting 3,440 orphans across the capital. Pramono also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand educational access, including a diploma reclamation programme and scholarships, to ensure all children in Jakarta have equal opportunities.

KAI Daop 7: Several Train Services Disrupted After Logawa Train Collides with Truck

A collision between the Logawa train and a truck at a guarded level crossing in Nganjuk, East Java, has disrupted multiple train services. The incident occurred on the Bagor-Saradan line, prompting PT KAI Daop 7 to coordinate with local police and deploy personnel to restore normal operations. No casualties have been confirmed yet, and KAI has apologised to passengers for the delays.

Indonesia Becomes First Country to Implement Mandatory B50 Biodiesel, Says Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto announced that Indonesia has officially become the first country in the world to implement a mandatory 50 percent biodiesel blend (B50). The launch marks a significant milestone in the nation's pursuit of energy self-sufficiency and reduced reliance on imports. The President also highlighted the country's accelerated achievement of food self-sufficiency, reaching the target in one year instead of the planned four.

Turkey Emerges as Israel's New Strategic Rival in the Middle East

Tensions between Turkey and Israel have escalated from political disagreements into a full-blown strategic rivalry, with both nations increasingly viewing each other as security threats. The competition spans multiple fronts, including influence in Syria, military alliances, and energy disputes in the Eastern Mediterranean. Despite the heightened rhetoric and conflicting interests, both countries are reportedly maintaining back-channel communications to avoid direct military confrontation.

Iran Retaliates Against US Attacks in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran and the United States have exchanged further military strikes in the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran targeting US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain in retaliation for American attacks on its coastal positions. The escalation follows US strikes on approximately 90 Iranian military targets, which President Donald Trump stated were a response to Iranian attacks on shipping. The renewed conflict has caused a spike in global oil prices and left thousands of seafarers stranded in the volatile waterway.

Islamic Boarding School Leader and Student Named Suspects in Lombok Santri Burning Case

Police in Central Lombok have named the head of an Islamic boarding school and a 15-year-old student as suspects in the burning of three fellow students, an incident that occurred in December 2025 but was only reported months later. The school leader and the juvenile are accused of negligence resulting in death and serious injury. The case only came to light in June 2026, prompting a delayed investigation involving 20 witnesses.

Prabowo Stresses Energy Independence Push Began Before Presidency

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that his drive for energy self-sufficiency, now being realised through the B50 biodiesel mandate, was a key policy direction even before he took office. He emphasised that a nation's survival depends on producing its own food, securing independent energy sources, and ensuring adequate water supplies. The B50 programme is expected to halt diesel imports, with Prabowo expressing confidence that full energy independence is achievable in the coming years.

Coordinating Ministry: Satellites a Strategic Necessity for Indonesian Telecommunications

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Political and Security Affairs has declared satellites a strategic necessity, not merely a supplement, for achieving equitable telecommunications coverage across the archipelago. The ministry highlighted the critical role of satellite technology in integrating future 6G ecosystems and bridging the digital divide in a nation of over 17,000 islands. Officials emphasised that satellites are now instruments for equitable development, national resilience, and extending the state's presence to the outermost regions.

Manpower Minister and Special Envoy Said Iqbal Discuss Outsourcing Rules and JHT Tax

Special Presidential Envoy Said Iqbal met with Manpower Minister Yassierli to discuss revisions to outsourcing regulations, proposing that only four support services be permitted and that state-owned enterprises (BUMN) use subsidiaries for outsourced workers. The meeting also covered a proposal to reduce the tax on Old Age Security (JHT) benefits to zero percent, with the Minister agreeing to coordinate with the Finance Minister on the matter.

Himbara Ready to Become Gateway for Global Capital Flows via PFII

The Association of State-Owned Banks (Himbara) has expressed its readiness to serve as a strategic gateway for global capital inflows through the planned Indonesian International Financial Centre (PFII). Himbara believes the PFII can strengthen Indonesia's position as a competitive financial hub by channelling foreign direct investment and institutional funds into the national economy. The association also stressed that the success of the PFII hinges on robust regulations, legal certainty, and integrated financial services, drawing lessons from established centres like those in Abu Dhabi and Singapore.

Western Europe Records Hottest June in History

Western Europe experienced its hottest June on record in 2026, driven by persistent warming on land and at sea, according to the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service. Global average surface air and sea temperatures reached near-record highs, with severe heatwaves breaking monthly and all-time temperature records across the region. The extreme heat, coupled with drier-than-average conditions, exacerbated drought risks and wildfire activity, particularly in the Iberian Peninsula and southern France.

Profile of Tambakberas Islamic Boarding School, Host of the 35th NU Congress

The Nahdlatul Ulama Executive Board has selected the historic Pondok Pesantren Tambakberas in Jombang, East Java, as the venue for its 35th Congress in August 2026. The decision was based on the institution's deep historical ties to NU's founding and its proven capacity to host large-scale events. The pesantren, established in 1825, is a major educational centre and the alma mater of former President Abdurrahman Wahid.

High Interest Rates and Their Impact on Consumer Banking Credit

Despite elevated interest rates, Indonesian banks continue to see resilient demand in the consumer credit segment. Hana Bank notes that customers are becoming more cautious in managing debt, prompting the bank to focus on ensuring repayment capacity and offering tailored financing solutions.

Tourism Ministry Holds Penglipuran as Model for Village Tourism Development

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry has designated Penglipuran Tourism Village in Bali as a national benchmark for developing tourism villages. The village is praised for successfully merging economic growth with cultural preservation and local wisdom. Its recognition includes winning the UN Tourism's Best Tourism Village award in 2023.

Former MPR Secretary-General Speaks Candidly to Investigators After KPK Detention: To Shed Light

Ma'ruf Cahyono, the former Secretary-General of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), has been detained by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) over alleged gratuities related to procurement. He stated that he provided extensive information to investigators to clarify the matter. The KPK is expected to hold a press conference to detail the case.

Valbury Cuts Spreads on Key Instruments, Potentially Boosting Trader Profits

PT Valbury Asia Futures has announced a significant reduction in spreads across its main trading instruments, including forex, gold, and indices. The adjustment, which applies to all account types, aims to lower transaction costs and support more efficient risk management for traders. The company emphasised that while lower costs can help, disciplined risk management remains crucial in leveraged trading.

Supported by Ministry of Villages PDT, BCF to Involve Fresh Graduates and Local Youth in Assisting Village-Owned Enterprises

The Bakrie Center Foundation (BCF) has partnered with the Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions to launch a programme aimed at strengthening village economies. The initiative will deploy fresh graduates and local youth to assist Village-Owned Enterprises (BUM Desa) in improving their competitiveness. An initial assessment is underway in South Lampung using a proprietary competitiveness index to select suitable enterprises for the programme.

Jatiwaringin Landfill Fire Still Not Extinguished, Evacuees Return Home

Residents displaced by the ongoing fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang Regency have returned home as smoke no longer drifts towards residential areas, despite the blaze not being fully extinguished. Firefighting efforts have reduced the active fire zone to approximately 5 per cent of the original 15-hectare area. Authorities remain on alert for potential wind changes and are continuing door-to-door health checks for affected residents.

Sampang Police Arrest 12 Suspects in Child Sexual Abuse Case

Police in Sampang, East Java, have arrested 12 individuals suspected of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old child, with a further 15 suspects still at large. The victim was allegedly threatened, plied with alcohol, and assaulted at three separate locations across the regency. Authorities have urged the remaining fugitives to surrender and called on parents to increase supervision of their children.

List of Officials Accompanying Prabowo at B50 Launch: Police Chief and Military Commander Present, Attorney General Absent

President Prabowo Subianto officially launched Indonesia's B50 biodiesel programme in Karawang, making the nation the first in the world to implement such a mandate. The event was attended by key cabinet ministers, the Indonesian Military Commander, and the National Police Chief, though the Attorney General was notably absent. Prabowo hailed the launch as a crucial milestone towards national energy independence and food sovereignty.

Home Affairs Secretary General Urges Regional Governments to Embrace Agricultural Extension Workers

The Secretary General of Indonesia's Ministry of Home Affairs, Tomsi Tohir, has called on regional governments to strengthen collaboration with agricultural extension workers, describing them as the spearhead of agricultural development. He stressed that synergy between policymakers and field officers is crucial to achieving national food self-sufficiency targets by 2027. Tohir also noted that a successful head of a regional agricultural office is defined not by their background but by their willingness to learn from and communicate with extension workers.

Universities Urged to Spearhead Poverty Eradication Efforts

The Indonesian government is calling on universities to become the frontline in tackling extreme poverty, in line with Presidential Instruction No. 8 of 2025. Officials argue that higher education institutions possess the human resources and research capabilities needed to provide concrete solutions for community empowerment. The initiative aims to shift state budget allocations from direct social assistance towards sustainable empowerment programmes.

MPR Chairman Denies Impeachment Draft, Says Constitutional Amendment Talks Still Preliminary

People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Chairman Ahmad Muzani has dismissed speculation linking constitutional amendment discussions to the impeachment of Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, stating that no draft articles exist. Muzani emphasised that the process is still at the stage of gathering public aspirations and that President Prabowo Subianto has urged caution and inclusivity. The MPR remains open to future amendments but insists any changes must be carefully prepared and not rushed.

Indonesia Committed to Strengthening a More Effective International System

Foreign Minister Sugiono has affirmed Indonesia's commitment to actively shaping a more effective and inclusive multilateral system. Speaking at the Jakarta Geopolitical Forum, he stressed that Indonesia intends to be at the negotiating table helping to craft the rules, rather than merely following them. He expressed optimism that the country can navigate global fragmentation by viewing change as an opportunity.

Bankers' Strategies for Maintaining Liquidity and Profitability in a High Interest Rate Era

Amidst global geopolitical and economic turmoil, Indonesian banks are urged to carefully manage liquidity and profitability. Bank Mandiri Taspen's CEO, Panji Irawan, highlights the need for prudent management of funding sources, including third-party funds and bank loans, to navigate the high interest rate environment. The discussion focuses on strategies to maintain financial stability and performance.

MIND ID Distributes 5,322 Scholarships Throughout 2025 to Build a Golden Generation

Indonesia's state-owned mining holding company MIND ID has awarded 5,322 scholarships in 2025 as part of its social investment in education. The initiative, which includes a flagship programme for coastal students in collaboration with PT Timah, also provided learning assistance to over 13,000 pupils and vocational training to nearly 2,000 individuals. The group aims to support the nation's sustainable development goals by expanding educational access and fostering human capital in remote and underprivileged areas.

IHSG Closes Higher Amid Flurry of IPOs in the Capital Market

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) Composite Index (IHSG) ended Thursday's trading session in positive territory, buoyed by a wave of initial public offerings (IPOs) that raised approximately Rp1.79 trillion this week. The market's resilience was further supported by the Asian Development Bank's (ADB) projection of stable 5.2 percent economic growth for Indonesia in 2026 and 2027. The gains came despite varied movements across Asian markets, which were weighed down by escalating geopolitical tensions following confirmed US military strikes on Iran.

Sumedang Agriculture Office Distributes 16 Tractors to Boost Food Production

The Sumedang Regency Agriculture and Food Security Office (DPKP) has distributed 16 hand tractors to farmer groups as part of a 2025 regional budget programme to enhance agricultural mechanisation. The assistance is prioritised for rice production centres and food barn areas across the regency's 26 districts. Officials stated the programme aims to accelerate land cultivation, improve efficiency, and ultimately increase farmer welfare and regional food security.

Prabowo: Those Daring to Drive Lamborghinis Must Pay for Expensive Fuel

President Prabowo Subianto has asserted that wealthy Indonesians should not object to paying higher prices for non-subsidised fuel. Speaking at the launch of the national B50 biodiesel mandate, he emphasised that fuel subsidies must be protected for the poor. The President also highlighted that Indonesia is the first country in the world to implement a mandatory 50 percent biodiesel blend nationally.

KPK Visits Finance Ministry to Discuss Additional Budget for 2026-2027

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) leadership met with Finance Ministry officials in Jakarta to request additional funding for the 2026 and 2027 fiscal years. The proposed budget increase is primarily intended to cover operational expenses and the potential procurement of new equipment. The Finance Ministry confirmed the request is under review but stated the amount is not in the trillions of rupiah.

BMKG Urges Tourists to Brace for Freezing Temperatures in Dieng During Dry Season

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has warned tourists visiting the Dieng Plateau in Central Java to prepare for sub-zero temperatures and frost phenomena between July and September. The agency attributes the extreme cold to the dry season's minimal cloud cover and the active Australian monsoon, which causes significant nighttime heat loss. The frost, known locally as 'embun upas', is expected to peak in August.

Official Theme and Logo for 2026 National Children's Day: Meaning and Philosophy

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection has unveiled the official theme and logo for the 42nd National Children's Day, to be commemorated on 23 July 2026. The theme, 'Sayang Anak, Lindungi dan Bangun Masa Depan' (Cherish Children, Protect and Build the Future), carries three core messages of affection, protection, and future development. The accompanying logo and nationwide campaign aim to reinforce the commitment to fulfilling children's rights and safeguarding them from violence and exploitation.

Indonesia-Canada CEPA Gains Importance as Global Protectionism Rises: Ambassador Dutton

Canada's ambassador to Indonesia has stressed the heightened strategic importance of the Indonesia-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (ICA-CEPA) amid rising global protectionism. The deal, signed in September 2025, will see Indonesia eliminate tariffs on 85.9% of Canadian goods while Canada removes duties on 90.5% of Indonesian products, providing the predictability businesses need for long-term investment. The ambassador highlighted Indonesia's central role in Canada's Indo-Pacific diversification strategy, noting the agreement could be expanded in five years to cover emerging sectors like artificial intelligence and clean technology.

Threatening 5,000 Tobacco Farmers, APTI Bondowoso Rejects Standardised Cigarette Packaging Plan

The Bondowoso branch of the Indonesian Tobacco Farmers Association (APTI) has voiced strong opposition to a government plan to standardise cigarette packaging, arguing it threatens the livelihoods of over 5,000 local farmers. The association warns that the proposed Health Ministry regulation could drastically reduce factory demand for their harvests, crippling the region's economy. They are urging the central government to evaluate the policy and prioritise the protection of grassroots tobacco growers.

Damar resin becomes a source of livelihood for the people of Negeri Neniari, Maluku

The community of Negeri Neniari in Maluku relies on harvesting damar resin as a sustainable, year-round source of income, likening the trees to 'ATMs'. This non-timber forest product provides stable earnings for families, funding household needs and children's education without the need to fell trees. The practice is highlighted as a model of sustainable forest management, with similar potential identified in Papua.

Young Chinese Ditch Designer Goods for 'Lucky' Crystals

Amid economic uncertainty and high youth unemployment, China's Gen Z is shifting spending from traditional luxury brands to items offering emotional and spiritual value. This 'Xuanxue' trend sees surging demand for crystals, temple visits, and fortune-enhancing jewellery, even as the broader personal luxury market contracts.

Elnusa Subsidiary ETSA Partners with PMTC to Strengthen Investment in Maritime Human Resources

PT Elnusa Trans Samudera (ETSA), a subsidiary of PT Elnusa Tbk, has entered into a strategic partnership with Pertamina Maritime Training Center (PMTC) to enhance the competence of its maritime officers. The collaboration focuses on providing training programmes and certificate revalidation to ensure high standards of safety and reliability. This initiative is viewed as a strategic investment in human capital to support sustainable maritime services and national energy resilience.

mGanik Clinches Top Innovation Choice Award, Reinforces Commitment to Diabetes Care Ecosystem

mGanik has received the Top Innovation Choice Award 2026 for its integrated diabetes management ecosystem, which combines medication, nutrition, and monitoring. The company's '3R' method—Rescue, Reverse, Remission—has reached over a million consumers through its nutrition arm and provided clinical care to more than 1,500 patients. Founder Dr Kelvin Candiago stated the award validates the holistic approach and announced plans to expand clinic branches and develop new nutritional formulations.

Six Groups Proposed for Free Public Transport in Jakarta, Including Job Seekers

The Jakarta provincial government is considering adding six new categories of residents eligible for free public transport as part of a broader review of Transjakarta and Transjabodetabek fares. Governor Pramono Anung stated that the final decision on expanding the list of beneficiaries, which currently includes 15 groups, will be announced shortly. The proposed new groups include companions of persons with severe disabilities and active job seekers.

Bappenas: Government Rice Reserves Exceed Target in First Semester

Indonesia's government rice reserves reached 5.19 million tonnes by the first semester of 2026, surpassing the 4 million tonne target. The Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) reported the stockpile is part of a presidential instruction aimed at stabilising prices and boosting farmer incomes. Bappenas recommends optimising the reserves for targeted food aid and developing a more dynamic food stock management strategy.

Prabowo Mourns Three Police Officers Killed in Drug Raid

President Prabowo Subianto expressed his condolences for three police officers killed during a drug enforcement operation in Central Kalimantan. The officers died while conducting a raid against a drug lord in Tumbang Kalemei village. Prabowo reiterated his administration's commitment to combating narcotics and corruption, noting progress in the fight against illegal activities.

Former MPR Secretary-General Ma'ruf Cahyono Officially Detained by KPK, Suspected of Receiving Rp17 Billion in Gratuities

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has formally detained Ma'ruf Cahyono, the former Secretary-General of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), as a suspect in a gratuity case. The alleged offence involves procurement activities within the MPR during his tenure from 2019 to 2021. The anti-graft body suspects Cahyono received approximately Rp17 billion, though the full details of the case are still under investigation.

Indonesia releases 21 rescued green sea turtles into Bali waters

Indonesian authorities have released 21 rehabilitated green sea turtles back into the wild in Bali after foiling a smuggling attempt. The turtles were rescued during a police operation in Buleleng in June, which led to the arrest of a caretaker and the identification of two other suspects involved in the illegal wildlife trade. The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries emphasised that the release demonstrates the government's commitment to integrated conservation and its crackdown on the trafficking of protected species.

Hajj Funds and the New Architecture of Indonesian Sharia Investment

The article discusses the strategic role of Indonesia's Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH), which manages over Rp181.7 trillion in assets, in deepening the national sharia financial ecosystem. It argues that beyond ensuring the security and benefits for pilgrims, these long-term 'patient capital' funds should be managed with strong governance and a multi-generational perspective, akin to a sovereign wealth fund, to support national development, sukuk markets, and strategic sectors like energy transition and infrastructure.

Tanjungpinang Immigration Detention Centre Deports 67 Chinese Nationals

Indonesian immigration authorities have deported 67 Chinese nationals from the Tanjungpinang Immigration Detention Centre. The individuals were implicated in an investment fraud and online gambling syndicate operating in Batam. The deportation was carried out in coordination with Chinese authorities as part of broader immigration law enforcement efforts.

Venezuela Seeks Release of Gold Reserves in UK for Earthquake Victims

Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, has announced plans to request King Charles III to release approximately 30 tonnes of frozen gold reserves held at the Bank of England. The funds are intended to provide aid for victims of the devastating twin earthquakes that struck the country on 24 June. Rodriguez emphasised the gold belongs to the Venezuelan people and must be used to address the tragic consequences of the natural disaster.

Godrej Consumer Products' Business Strategy for Household and Baby Care in the Digital Era

Godrej Consumer Products is expanding its manufacturing footprint in Indonesia with a new factory in Kendal, Central Java, to strengthen its home care, personal care, and baby care segments. The Indian manufacturer, which entered the Indonesian market in 2010 through an acquisition, views the country as a key market due to its large consumer base and economic growth potential. The company is also leveraging digital transformation to drive its consumer goods business forward.

Google Employees Resign for AI Startups Despite High Salaries, Citing Better Equity and Job Security

Despite earning millions, a former Google executive left the company to start his own AI venture, citing the 'life-changing' equity opportunities offered by emerging AI startups. The move highlights a growing trend of top talent departing major tech firms like Google for the potentially greater financial upside and renewed sense of purpose found in the AI sector. This exodus is compounded by recent cost-cutting measures at Google, including layoffs and reduced employee perks, which have diminished its appeal as a premier employer.

Revealed: The Trail of Cafe de'CLAN Before the Police Raid

Police have uncovered a large hidden safe containing foreign currency during a raid on Cafe de'CLAN in South Jakarta. The establishment, previously known as Gontran Cherrier, is under investigation for three alleged corruption cases and money laundering. The discovery has intensified public scrutiny of the venue's business operations.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Heads Not to Furlough PPPK Workers, Pushes for Efficiency

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has instructed regional heads to avoid furloughing government workers with work agreements (PPPK) due to budget constraints. He is urging local governments to conduct thorough budget reviews and implement efficiency measures to cover salary payments. The central government is also identifying fiscally distressed regions to prioritise the disbursement of revenue-sharing funds.

ICOM-CECA 2026 to strengthen Jakarta's position in international networks

The Jakarta provincial government believes hosting the ICOM-CECA Annual Conference in November 2026 will bolster the capital's global standing ahead of its 500th anniversary. The event, themed around museums fostering dialogue in divided times, aligns with Jakarta's vision as an open and sustainable global city. The conference will feature sessions at iconic museums and cultural visits, aiming to enhance museum development and cultural diplomacy.

KPK Leadership Meets Finance Minister Purbaya to Discuss Additional Budget Proposal

The leadership of Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) met with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to request additional funding for the 2026 and 2027 fiscal years. The proposed budget increase is intended to support operational expenses and potential new equipment procurement. Officials confirmed the meeting did not address case handling or the free nutritious meal programme.

3,000 Residents Displaced by Armed Conflict in Intan Jaya

Approximately 3,000 people have been displaced in Intan Jaya Regency, Central Papua, due to escalating armed conflict between security forces and the West Papua National Liberation Army (TPNPB-OPM). The displaced are currently sheltering in Sugapa District, with local authorities providing food and facilitating returns where security permits. The crisis adds to a broader humanitarian situation in Papua, where the Ministry of Human Rights reports 122,000 internally displaced persons across multiple regencies.

Prabowo Offers Condolences for Three Police Officers Killed in Central Kalimantan Drug Raid

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed his condolences following the deaths of three police officers during a drug raid in Central Kalimantan. The officers, members of the Katingan Police narcotics unit, were killed after encountering resistance while conducting an operation in Tumbang Kalemei village. The President reaffirmed the government's commitment to combating serious crimes such as drug trafficking, corruption, and gambling.

Jakarta to Host World Museum Conference in Late 2026

Jakarta is set to host the International Council of Museums Committee for Education and Cultural Action (ICOM-CECA) Annual Conference in November 2026, marking the first time Indonesia has been entrusted with the event. The conference is expected to draw over 200 museum professionals from more than 50 countries to discuss the role of museums in society. Organisers say the achievement follows three years of strategic discussions and positions Jakarta as a global hub for cultural dialogue.

Baznas Empowers Mustahik in Banyumas Through Chicken Farming Programme

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has launched a chicken farming programme in Banyumas, Central Java, aimed at economically empowering women and alleviating extreme poverty. The 'Permata' programme, valued at Rp194.8 million, targets 30 female-headed families in Cilongok District. This initiative is part of a broader government effort, supported by additional local Baznas funding, to strengthen food security and create sustainable economic models.

BPOM Surabaya Accelerates National Product Distribution Permits via One Stop Services

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) held a One Stop Services event in Surabaya to expedite the issuance of distribution permits for natural medicines, quasi-drugs, health supplements, and cosmetics. The initiative, featuring programmes like PATRIOTISME and BRIDGE, aims to provide intensive mentoring to business operators and bridge the gap between research and market-ready products. The effort underscores BPOM's commitment to fostering national innovation and ensuring products meet safety, quality, and efficacy standards.

Bappenas records government corn reserves at 190,000 tonnes as of July

Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) reports that the government's corn reserve has only reached 190,000 tonnes, or 19 per cent of the one-million-tonne target set for 6 July 2026. The figure highlights a significant gap between realisation and the target established under a presidential instruction. Bappenas has recommended accelerating procurement, optimising distribution, and incorporating additional stock targets into the 2027 Government Work Plan.

President Prabowo: Indonesia Has Great Capital to Achieve Energy Independence

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that Indonesia possesses significant capital to achieve energy self-sufficiency by optimising its natural resources. Speaking at the launch of B50 biodiesel in Karawang, he highlighted the nation's vast reserves of geothermal energy, coal, and natural gas. The President also pointed to the potential of underutilised compressed natural gas (CNG) and new technologies to extract gas from deep coal layers as key to strengthening national energy sovereignty.

Tangerang City Government Issues Circular on Fathers Accompanying Children on First Day of School

The Tangerang City Government has issued a circular encouraging fathers to accompany their children on the first day of the new school year. The policy aims to strengthen the role of fathers in parenting and child development, following a similar directive from the national government. Male civil servants are specifically urged to participate, with the initiative intended to foster positive family habits and improve synergy between families and schools.

MSME Products Can Dominate Modern Retail Market Through Collaboration

Trade Minister Budi Santoso asserts that Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) products can dominate the modern retail market by adopting partnership and collaboration models. The government has shifted from a mandatory 30% local product quota to a partnership approach, ensuring only quality products enter modern retail chains. Metro Department Store has increased its local product share to around 60% as part of this collaborative push.

Student Killed in Gang Clash in South Jakarta, Four Arrested

A student was killed during a violent clash between rival gangs in Pancoran, South Jakarta. Police have arrested four suspects, including three minors, in connection with the incident. The brawl involved dozens of youths armed with sickles and other sharp weapons.

KSP Appreciates Gianyar MPP for Cutting Bureaucracy in Public Services

The Presidential Staff Office (KSP) has praised the Public Service Mall (MPP) in Gianyar, Bali, for successfully streamlining bureaucracy by integrating various public services. During a visit, Chief of Staff Dudung Abdurachman noted the facility allows citizens to handle their affairs quickly and free of charge, aligning with the president's priority to simplify administrative processes. The MPP, which serves around 250 visitors daily, was also lauded by other deputy ministers as a model for effective and efficient public service transformation across Indonesia.

Sand-Free Hatching Innovation Saves Thousands of Turtle Hatchlings in Banyuwangi

The Banyuwangi Sea Turtle Foundation has successfully hatched thousands of olive ridley turtle eggs using a sand-free artificial incubation method. The 'Intan Ruang' technique achieved an 85 percent success rate, significantly outperforming the 50 percent rate of traditional semi-natural sand incubation. This innovation is part of a broader conservation effort that has secured over 20,000 eggs from the Banyuwangi coast since April 2026.

Expert Says Muzani's Assignment to Khamenei's Funeral Is Constitutional

A constitutional law expert has stated that the appointment of MPR Speaker Ahmad Muzani as a special envoy to attend Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's funeral is legally sound. The assessment clarifies that Muzani acted under the direct authority of President Prabowo Subianto rather than in his parliamentary capacity. The move, coordinated with the Foreign Ministry, is deemed consistent with the president's prerogative in foreign relations.

After Receiving Award, Megawati Duets with Timor-Leste Leader Singing 'Cinta Hampa'

Megawati Soekarnoputri and Timor-Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão shared a light-hearted moment at a state banquet in Dili, singing the Indonesian classic 'Cinta Hampa' together. The duet occurred after Megawati received Timor-Leste's highest honour, the Grande Colar da Ordem de Timor-Leste. The spontaneous performance underscored the deep personal rapport and fraternal ties between the two neighbouring nations' leaders.

Social Affairs Ministry Accelerates DTSEN Data Update for KIP Kuliah Scholarship

The Ministry of Social Affairs and Statistics Indonesia (BPS) are fast-tracking the update of the National Socio-Economic Single Data (DTSEN) to ensure accuracy for the Smart Indonesia Card for Higher Education (KIP-K) programme. Minister Saifullah Yusuf stated that changes in welfare status (desil) are normal due to dynamic population data, and affected students need not worry as alternative verification pathways exist. A new digital channel is being prepared to expedite data corrections, while the government reiterates that accurate data is essential to prevent mis-targeting of social assistance.

US Strikes Iran Again, 14 Killed and Dozens Injured

United States air strikes on Iran have continued into a second day, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and 78 injuries, according to Iranian health officials. The US Central Command confirmed it struck approximately 90 military targets along the Iranian coast to degrade Tehran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media reported explosions across multiple southern coastal cities and damage to a railway bridge in the north-east.

Indonesia's IPO momentum reflects robust investment climate: Airlangga

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto highlighted Indonesia's strong investment climate, noting the second IPO of 2026 and a pipeline of six more companies, despite global market volatility. The food and beverage sector's contribution to GDP rose to 7.31% in the first quarter, supported by robust domestic and foreign direct investment. The government is committed to deepening capital market reforms to sustain long-term financing and economic growth.

Youth Missing in Ciliwung River After Fleeing Unidentified Pursuers

A 26-year-old man, Ahmad Suwandi, remains missing after reportedly jumping into the Ciliwung River in West Jakarta to escape a group of unidentified individuals. The incident occurred late Wednesday night while the victim was socialising with friends on the riverbank. Search and rescue teams are continuing to sweep the river, but the victim has not yet been found.

State Secretariat Monitors Implementation of Presidential Instruction on Baai Port Channel Normalisation

The Ministry of State Secretariat is monitoring the implementation of a presidential instruction aimed at normalising the shipping channel at Pulau Baai Port and accelerating development on Enggano Island. The monitoring focuses on dredging progress, port infrastructure readiness, and logistics distribution. The findings will be reported to the President to ensure the project meets its targets.

idEA: Businesses Must Understand Income Tax Collection Mechanism on Marketplaces

The Indonesian E-Commerce Association (idEA) has clarified that the new income tax collection mechanism via marketplaces is not a new tax, but a change in procedure for eligible sellers. The policy, effective August 2026, will see platforms like Shopee and Tokopedia collect PPh on behalf of the government. idEA emphasises the need for continuous communication to ensure smooth implementation, especially for digital MSMEs.

Profile of Henry Surya, Owner of Indosurya and Prolife Insurance

Henry Surya, founder of KSP Indosurya, is facing renewed scrutiny after the Financial Services Authority (OJK) seized assets from PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife Indonesia. The OJK alleges Surya embezzled hundreds of billions of rupiah in policyholder funds and failed to comply with a written order to pay compensation. Surya was previously implicated in the collapse of KSP Indosurya, a case involving an estimated Rp 106 trillion in illegal deposits from 23,000 victims.

Rupiah Closes Weaker at Rp 18,128 per US Dollar, Analysts Point to Fiscal Factors

The Indonesian rupiah weakened past the Rp 18,000 threshold against the US dollar, closing at Rp 18,128 on Thursday. Analysts attributed the depreciation to negative domestic sentiment surrounding the accelerated implementation of the 2026 state budget and a decline in the Consumer Confidence Index. Despite the drop, Bank Indonesia maintains that consumer confidence remains in an optimistic zone.

Education Ministry Strengthens Subject-Based PMKKA Training for Teachers

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is intensifying the implementation of independent training in Deep Learning, Coding, and Artificial Intelligence (PMKKA) for teachers. The programme is shifting from a pilot phase to a subject-based approach, utilising teacher working groups and dedicated learning days. The ministry aims to ensure the philosophy of meaningful and joyful deep learning is fully integrated into classroom practice.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Urges Regional Governments to Strengthen Education Ecosystem

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Ribka Haluk has called on regional governments to bolster the education ecosystem, emphasising the need to improve teacher welfare and resolve human resource issues. Speaking at a national coordination meeting, she stressed that education is a mandatory basic service and urged leaders to demonstrate political will in protecting educators. The minister also warned that fiscal constraints should not be used as a pretext to dismiss part-time government employees in the education sector.

Suspect in Baturraden cattle breeding centre milk sales corruption detained

The Purwokerto District Attorney's Office has detained SHH, the former head of the Baturraden Centre for Superior Livestock Breeding and Forage, over alleged corruption in milk sales between 2018 and 2024. The suspect is accused of selling milk at inflated prices through a cooperative and failing to deposit the difference into state coffers, causing significant losses. The case has now been transferred to the Semarang Corruption Court for prosecution.

Prabowo Reiterates 'Crab Nation' Analogy, Reveals He Learned It from Mahathir Mohamad

President Prabowo Subianto has once again used the 'crab nation' analogy to describe a perceived tendency among Indonesians to pull each other down, speaking at a B50 biodiesel launch event. He revealed that he originally learned this philosophy from former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad. Prabowo lamented that this envious behaviour manifests in negative social media campaigns and a desire to see fellow citizens fail, despite the country's progress.

Trump Claims Spain 'Finally Back' After Threats

US President Donald Trump claimed Spain has reversed its stance and agreed to substantial payments after he threatened to sever all trade relations. The remarks were made following a NATO summit in Ankara, where Trump had previously labelled Spain a poor alliance partner. Details of the alleged financial commitments from Madrid were not disclosed.

Russian National Held Captive for 30 Hours in Bali, Forced to Surrender Crypto Assets

A Russian national was allegedly abducted and tortured in Bali, Indonesia, in a targeted robbery aimed at his cryptocurrency holdings. The victim, Artem Ivanov, was reportedly held for 30 hours and forced to hand over access to his digital asset accounts. Bali police are currently investigating the violent crime, which involved the theft of mobile phones and the ransacking of the victim's villa.

B50 Launched, Prabowo Proud Indonesia is First Country to Mandate B50

President Prabowo officially launched the use of B50 biodiesel on 9 July 2025, making Indonesia the first nation in the world to mandate the fuel blend. The initiative is part of a national strategy to strengthen energy security. The programme is projected to save foreign exchange, create jobs, and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Australia Gets Serious About Coffee Industry, Aims to Develop Home-Grown Beans

Australia, a nation of major coffee consumers, is intensifying efforts to expand its domestic coffee production, which currently accounts for less than one per cent of consumption. Researchers have identified promising coffee varieties suited to local conditions, spurring commercial planting and interest from farmers seeking diversification. The push is driven by shifting consumer preferences, improved production methods, and a growing market for locally grown Australian coffee.

Santri Burn Victims in Lombok Prevented from Flying to Densu Podcast

Two Islamic boarding school students who were victims of an alleged arson attack in Central Lombok were prevented from flying to Jakarta to appear on Denny Sumargo's podcast. Police intervened at the airport, citing the victims' ongoing medical recovery and the active criminal investigation. The Child Protection Agency confirmed the decision prioritised the children's health, with all treatment costs being covered by the NTB Police Chief.

Indonesia Stops Diesel Imports After B50 Implementation, Says Bahlil

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced that Indonesia has ceased diesel imports following the implementation of the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme. The policy, inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto, mandates a 50 percent blend of biodiesel in diesel fuel. The government views this as a strategic step towards national energy sovereignty and reducing reliance on imported fuel.

TikTok Partners with Health Ministry and Foodbank Indonesia to Promote Local Food Consumption

TikTok has launched the 'Makan Dengan Makna' campaign in Indonesia, supported by the Ministry of Health, to encourage healthy eating and appreciation for local food. The initiative includes a USD 200,000 donation to the Foodbank of Indonesia to distribute over 80,000 nutritious meals to vulnerable communities. The programme aims to leverage the platform's popularity for culinary content to boost local food consumption and support farmers.

KPK Detains Former MPR Secretary General Ma'ruf Cahyono

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained former MPR Secretary General Ma'ruf Cahyono. He is a suspect in a graft case related to procurement at the People's Consultative Assembly, with the KPK alleging he received IDR 17 billion. The anti-graft body has not yet detailed the full construction of the case.

Kuta Police Officer Allegedly Ordered 40 Ecstasy Pills for Party

A police officer in Bali is under internal investigation after allegedly ordering 40 ecstasy pills for a party at a nightclub in Canggu. The head of the Kuta Police Criminal Investigation Unit tested positive for drugs, though officials have denied the specific quantity of pills reportedly involved. The officer is currently undergoing a 30-day period of special confinement while the investigation continues.

How Drone Technology is Liberating Iran's Axis of Resistance

A new report reveals that Iran's network of allied militias, including Hezbollah and the Houthis, has achieved significant operational autonomy by mastering the indigenous production of drones. This technological independence has allowed them to sustain attacks against Israel and US assets despite direct military strikes on Iran. The shift challenges the traditional proxy model, forcing Tehran to coordinate increasingly powerful and independent actors.

Australia to export uranium to India

Australia and India have signed a new agreement enabling the export of Australian uranium to India for peaceful nuclear energy purposes. The deal was inked during a meeting between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Melbourne. The leaders also agreed to strengthen cooperation in security and cultural fields.

Agriculture Minister expands export potential of coconut and CPO to Lebanon

Indonesia's Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman is seeking to boost exports of coconut and crude palm oil (CPO) to Lebanon as part of a strategy to strengthen trade and gain wider access to the Middle Eastern market. The initiative follows a meeting with the Lebanese Ambassador, where both sides acknowledged the complementary nature of their agricultural sectors. Indonesia, as the world's largest producer of coconut and palm oil, aims to leverage Lebanon's heavy reliance on food imports to increase its market share.

YLBHI Condemns TNI Deployment to Guard Jampidsus' Residence

The Indonesian Legal Aid Foundation (YLBHI) has strongly criticised the deployment of military personnel to guard the home of the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, calling it a potential obstruction of justice. The guard was mounted after police searched a café linked to corruption investigations involving state-owned enterprises. YLBHI argues the presidential regulation allowing such military involvement is unconstitutional and threatens the foundation of the rule of law.

Prabowo to Award State Honours to Bahlil, Rosan, and Others for B50 Biodiesel Success

President Prabowo Subianto has announced he will confer state honours on several key ministers and officials for their role in realising Indonesia's mandatory B50 biodiesel programme. The President hailed the launch as a major achievement for the nation, marking Indonesia as the first country in the world to implement the B50 mandate. The programme is a strategic move to reduce fuel imports, enhance energy sovereignty, and add value to domestic natural resources.

IHSG Closes Higher, Returning to 5,900 Level

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) strengthened on Thursday, closing at 5,912.44, buoyed by gains in the basic materials and energy sectors. The rebound occurred despite heightened global uncertainty driven by escalating military conflict between the United States and Iran, which has disrupted key shipping lanes and pushed oil prices higher. The IMF has also revised its global economic growth forecast downwards to 3% for 2026, citing the prolonged geopolitical tensions.

Rupiah Weakens on Increased Demand for US Dollar

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated by 0.63 percent to Rp18,128 per US dollar on Thursday, driven by heightened demand for the safe-haven currency amid renewed US-Iran tensions. Rising global oil prices and expectations that the US Federal Reserve will maintain higher interest rates also contributed to the pressure. Indonesia's strong foreign exchange reserves and controlled inflation are expected to help limit further depreciation.

Prabowo Proud as Indonesia Becomes World's First Country to Implement B50 Biodiesel

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed pride in Indonesia becoming the first nation globally to mandate the use of B50 biodiesel. The launch marks a significant milestone in the country's pursuit of energy self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on fuel imports. The government confirmed that the implementation of the 50 percent biodiesel blend will halt diesel imports for the first time.

BGN Building Manager Says Glass Breakage Not the First Incident

The manager of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) building in Central Jakarta has stated that the recent glass breakage is not an isolated incident, with similar occurrences reported since 2018. The manager attributed the breakage to thermal expansion and denied any link to terrorism or gunfire. Police also confirmed the incident was likely caused by hot weather, and no casualties were reported.

JCI Closes Higher at 5,912 Despite Early Pressure, 327 Stocks End in Positive Territory

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) staged a late-session recovery to close 0.67 percent higher at 5,912.442 on Thursday, overcoming early losses. Trading activity was robust with a transaction value exceeding Rp12 trillion, as 327 stocks advanced against 275 decliners. Analysts had previously cautioned that the index might test support levels around 5,800 due to lingering global and domestic sentiment.

Police Rule Out Shooting in BGN Office Glass Breakage, Cite Extreme Heat

Jakarta police have dismissed reports of a shooting at the Badan Gizi Nasional (BGN) office, stating that a shattered glass panel was likely caused by recent extreme hot weather. Inafis officers examined the scene and documented the damage, which occurred on the building's upper floor near the car park.

Mother of Burnt Santri Speaks Out After Being Prevented from Attending Denny Sumargo Podcast

Nuraini, the mother of a 14-year-old santri who was a victim of a fatal fire at an Islamic boarding school in Lombok, has detailed the events leading to her cancelled trip to Jakarta for a podcast interview. She was stopped at the airport by police, who stated that permission had not been granted by the regional police chief. The family had been invited by a content creator who suggested the appearance might lead to better medical treatment or donations for the victim.

Glass at National Nutrition Agency Office Shatters, Police Cite Hot Weather

A glass panel at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) office in Central Jakarta shattered on Thursday, initially sparking speculation of an attack. Police have dismissed foul play, attributing the incident to thermal expansion caused by extreme outdoor heat and indoor air conditioning. The building manager noted such occurrences are common during the dry season, happening once or twice a year.

Economist: Marketplace Tax Requires Data Integration to Prevent Double Taxation

An economist from Celios has urged the government to integrate data systems for the new marketplace income tax to prevent double taxation for business owners. Nailul Huda highlighted the need to cross-reference online and offline business tax IDs and aggregate data across different platforms. He argued that platform-based validation is stronger than self-declarations, which could be exploited for tax avoidance.

KPK Detains Former MPR Secretary General Ma'ruf Cahyono for Alleged Gratification

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Ma'ruf Cahyono, the former Secretary General of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), on suspicion of receiving gratuities. Cahyono was taken into custody after undergoing questioning at the KPK building and is being held for an initial 20-day period. The anti-graft agency is scheduled to hold a press conference to provide further details on the case.

Singapore Disburses GST Voucher Cash Payments to 1.5 Million Citizens

The Singaporean government is distributing cash payouts of up to SG$850 (approximately Rp11.89 million) to around 1.5 million eligible citizens as part of its permanent GST Voucher scheme. The programme, which also includes Medisave top-ups for seniors, is designed to help lower- and middle-income households offset the cost of the Goods and Services Tax.

Land fires in Muaro Jambi spread to five locations

The Muaro Jambi disaster mitigation agency reports that land fires in the region have expanded to five separate points after two new hotspots were detected. The fires have scorched nearly eight hectares of mineral soil, and authorities are coordinating with police to investigate the cause.

France Accuses Iran of Provoking US by Violating Ceasefire Amid Middle East Tensions

France has accused Iran of provoking the latest US military strikes by violating a ceasefire agreement, specifically citing Iranian attacks on ships in the Gulf of Oman. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called for calm and urged an end to such manoeuvres to allow crucial negotiations to proceed. The accusations come amid escalating clashes between Washington and Tehran over control of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

ADB's Indonesia Growth Forecast Stays 5.2%, Beats Some ASEAN Nations

The Asian Development Bank has maintained its 5.2% growth forecast for Indonesia in 2026 and 2027, outpacing several ASEAN peers. The Manila-based lender also raised its inflation projection for Indonesia to 3% this year, while warning that energy shocks from Middle East conflicts pose significant downside risks to the broader region. ADB urged policymakers to strike a careful balance between supporting growth and containing inflation.

The Link Between Parents' Psychological Condition and Children's First Language Acquisition

A study highlights that a parent's psychological health is a critical factor in a child's first language acquisition, not merely a supplementary one. Stable and healthy emotional conditions enable parents to provide effective child-directed speech (CDS) and responsive interactions essential for linguistic development. The case of Kenneth, a toddler known as 'Kenkulus' on social media, serves as empirical evidence of how optimal psychological environments at home can lead to advanced vocabulary and communication skills in young children.

Death Toll in Gaza Continues to Rise, Reaching 73,110 Amid Ongoing Israeli Attacks

The death toll from Israeli aggression in Gaza has climbed to 73,110, with medical sources reporting that the majority of victims are women and children. Despite a ceasefire agreement that took effect on 11 October, Israeli forces continue to violate the truce, and many bodies remain trapped under rubble, inaccessible to rescue teams.

House Budget Committee Confirms Free Nutritious Meal Programme Budget to Fall to IDR 174 Trillion in 2027

The House of Representatives' Budget Committee has confirmed that the budget for the Free Nutritious Meal programme will be reduced to IDR 174 trillion in 2027, down from IDR 268 trillion in 2026. Committee Chair Said Abdullah attributed the decrease to a revised assessment of required service points, which dropped from 27,000 to 21,000. He assured that the budget cut would not compromise the quality of the programme or its benefits for 84 million students and other recipients.

6G Internet Era Approaches, Indonesia's Komdigi Assesses National Readiness

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) has stated that the paradigm regarding satellite technology must shift as the world prepares for the 6G era. The future 6G network will integrate non-terrestrial networks, including satellites, with terrestrial systems, making satellite connectivity a strategic necessity for archipelagic nations like Indonesia. GSMA projects that while 6G will begin rolling out in leading markets by 2030, its adoption in Indonesia may take slightly longer.

16 Uzbek Nationals Stranded in Alor, East Nusa Tenggara, Evacuated to Kupang

Sixteen Uzbek men found stranded on a beach in Alor Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, have been evacuated to Kupang for further immigration processing. Preliminary investigations suggest their boat suffered engine failure, and most are suspected of overstaying their visas. Authorities are also searching for an Indonesian national believed to have been operating the vessel.

IDX Reveals Regional Governments' Enthusiasm for Exploring Regional Bond Issuance

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has noted significant interest from several regional governments in issuing regional bonds to overcome limited local budgets. However, the IDX's Director of Corporate Assessment, Saidu Solihin, emphasised that while many are exploring the option, the ultimate success depends on political will. Jakarta's acting governor has specifically targeted a bond issuance this year to raise up to Rp3.5 trillion, aiming to ease fiscal pressure following central government budget cuts.

Can AI Help MSMEs Become More Environmentally Friendly?

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) face growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices but are often hindered by limited resources. Artificial intelligence offers a practical pathway to green business by improving operational efficiency and reducing waste. The technology can help these businesses forecast demand, manage inventory, and optimise energy use, though challenges in digital literacy and data quality remain.

Lahadalia said B50 to save US$9.35 billion in forex

Indonesia's B50 biodiesel mandate is projected to save Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange by eliminating diesel imports, according to Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia. The programme, launched by President Prabowo, is also expected to increase the added value of crude palm oil and create over 2 million jobs. The policy forms part of a strategic push to strengthen national energy security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Bahlil: B50 Biodiesel Can Stop Diesel Imports, Save Rp 170 Trillion in Foreign Exchange

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced that the mandatory implementation of B50 biodiesel will halt diesel imports and save Indonesia up to Rp 170 trillion in foreign exchange. The programme, officially launched by President Prabowo, is also projected to absorb 2.1 million workers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 44.4 million tonnes of CO2.

UNM Students Partner with KAI to Develop Disability-Friendly Transport Innovation

Students from Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) are collaborating with PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) to develop a disability-friendly public transport concept called Disability Smart Accessibility. The initiative, part of a student creativity programme, involves field observation and video production at Cikini Station to explore integrating digital technology for more inclusive services. The university emphasises this collaboration builds professional ethics and regulatory understanding among students.

UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta Dispatches 3,725 Students for Community Service, 20 Selected to Serve in Four Countries

UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta has dispatched 3,725 students for its 120th Community Service Programme (KKN), with 20 selected participants heading to Malaysia, Thailand, Japan, and South Korea. The programme, themed around utilising knowledge and innovation for sustainable development, is supported by partners including Bank Indonesia. The university emphasised its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and its recent ranking in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Rankings.

Put on the Spot, Bahlil and Rosan Given New Heavy Task by Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto has challenged his ministers to achieve an ambitious target of 100 GW of solar power capacity within two years. The project, estimated to cost US$100 billion, aims to reduce diesel use in eastern Indonesia and will rely heavily on private sector investment.

After B50 Success, Prabowo Tasks Ministers with 100 GW Solar Power Target

President Prabowo Subianto has assigned key ministers the ambitious task of installing 100 gigawatts of solar power capacity within two years, following the successful implementation of the B50 biodiesel mandate. The project, estimated to cost over US$100 billion, aims to reduce reliance on diesel power plants in eastern Indonesia and strengthen national energy security. The government expects the private sector to fund approximately 70% of the investment through Independent Power Producer schemes.

Non-Active Riau Governor Abdul Wahid Sentenced to 8.5 Years in Prison for Alleged Extortion

Prosecutors from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have demanded an 8.5-year prison sentence for non-active Riau Governor Abdul Wahid. He is accused of extorting subordinates at the Public Works and Spatial Planning Agency, with illicit funds totalling Rp3.55 billion. The sentence also includes a fine of Rp500 million and a restitution payment of Rp1.45 billion.

Debtors Can Now Check Loan History on SLIK via Bank Jago

Bank Jago has introduced a 'Credit Report' feature in its app, enabling prospective borrowers to review their full credit history sourced from the OJK's Financial Information Service System (SLIK). The feature aims to reduce loan application failures by increasing awareness of outstanding debts across all financial institutions. It complements the bank's existing responsible lending products and addresses gaps in financial literacy highlighted by recent OJK data.

Bank Jago Launches Credit Report Feature Without Requiring SLIK Access

Bank Jago has introduced a 'Rapor Kredit' feature on its app, enabling prospective borrowers to review their credit history before applying for loans. The tool aims to address the issue of loan application rejections caused by unrecognised outstanding debts. It provides data sourced from the OJK's Financial Information Service System (SLIK) and offers recommendations to improve credit health.

Bahlil: Indonesia No Longer Imports Diesel After B50 Programme Implementation

Indonesia has ceased diesel imports following the implementation of the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme, according to Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia. The policy, launched by President Prabowo Subianto, mandates a 50 percent blend of palm oil-based biodiesel in diesel fuel. The government hails the move as a major step towards energy sovereignty and self-sufficiency, aligning with President Prabowo's Astacita vision.

Indonesia eyes 100 pct TB contact tracing to eliminate disease by 2030

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has mandated comprehensive contact tracing for tuberculosis patients as part of a drive to eliminate the disease by 2030. The strategy shifts focus from solely treating the ill to actively preventing transmission through nationwide health screenings and rapid diagnostics. With Indonesia accounting for roughly 10 percent of global TB cases, the government has secured funding for the 2026 programme and is also investing in domestic diagnostic kit production and vaccine research.

Global Jitters Ahead of Winter: Asia Stockpiles LNG, Europe Panics

The global LNG market faces a precarious period as Asian demand surges and European gas storage levels remain critically low ahead of winter. Supply disruptions from Qatar, combined with extreme weather and infrastructure risks, are keeping prices elevated. Analysts warn that further geopolitical tensions or technical failures could trigger a new price spike.

Bappenas: 6 GHz Spectrum to Accelerate National Economic Growth

Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas) has identified the 6 GHz spectrum as a strategic asset for accelerating national economic growth and supporting the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision. The spectrum is expected to enhance digital infrastructure, drive Industry 4.0 adoption, and improve public services like telemedicine. Bappenas emphasised that policy must be based on mature techno-economic studies to maximise social and economic benefits beyond state revenue.

Pertamina opens chain economic impact for MSMEs through Jakarta Fair

State-owned energy company Pertamina is leveraging the Jakarta Fair to create a ripple effect of economic benefits for its fostered micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative, centred around the Bright Store booth, aims to boost product visibility and competitiveness, exemplified by the viral success of a Bright Gas canister-shaped bag. The high demand has not only increased production for the local manufacturer but also integrated other MSMEs into the supply chain, such as a Bandung-based pastry producer.

KPK Detains Former MPR Secretary-General Ma'ruf Cahyono

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Ma'ruf Cahyono, the former Secretary-General of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), as a suspect in a gratuity case. He was taken into custody following an examination at the KPK building in South Jakarta. The case relates to alleged gratuities in procurement within the MPR, with the KPK suspecting Ma'ruf received Rp 17 billion.

House Deputy Speaker Responds to Proposal to Rename West Java to Tatar Sunda

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Cucun Ahmad Syamsurizal, has urged the West Java provincial government and legislature to focus on development rather than the controversial proposal to rename the province. The discourse has sparked public debate, with the West Java Governor dismissing the name change as a fabrication.

Lemhannas Seeks to Foster World Peace Through JGF 2026 Forum

Indonesia's National Resilience Institute (Lemhannas) is hosting the Jakarta Geopolitical Forum (JGF) X/2026 to discuss geopolitical, economic, and technological rivalries among nations. The forum aims to generate strategic policy ideas that strengthen multilateralism and contribute to world peace. Governor Ace Hasan Syadzily stated the discussions will serve as a reference for Indonesia's Foreign Ministry in formulating strategic policies.

Japanese Police Delegation Visits Posyandu in Kemayoran

A delegation of Japanese police officers visited the integrated health post (Posyandu) at RW 02 in Kemayoran, Central Jakarta, to observe community-based public services. The visit, facilitated by JICA, aimed to showcase integrated services involving local government and residents. Officials hope the exchange will strengthen bilateral cooperation on community-level service management.

ESDM pushes solar power access for remote regions

Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is promoting solar energy to electrify remote areas, citing a vast potential of 3,294 gigawatts. Despite this, current utilisation stands at only 1.6 gigawatts, with individual solar home systems playing a key role in achieving a 99.79 per cent off-grid electrification ratio. The government aims to provide reliable 24-hour electricity to over 10,000 unelectrified villages and hamlets by 2029 through communal solar plants and battery storage.

Prabowo: Indonesia First Country to Implement B50 Biodiesel

President Prabowo Subianto has declared Indonesia the first nation globally to implement a mandatory 50 per cent palm oil-based biodiesel blend, known as B50, nationwide. The programme, launched in West Java, mandates mixing biodiesel with diesel fuel and is framed as a strategic move towards energy self-sufficiency. The policy aims to reduce reliance on imported fuel, enhance the value of domestic natural resources, and bolster national economic and energy resilience.

Prabowo launches B50 as milestone for energy self-sufficiency

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the B50 biodiesel mandate in Karawang, West Java, positioning Indonesia as the first country to implement a 50 percent palm oil blend in diesel. The policy aims to eliminate diesel imports, strengthen national energy sovereignty, and is projected to save up to Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange in 2026. The programme is also expected to increase crude palm oil value addition, absorb 2.1 million workers, and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 44.46 million tonnes of CO2.

DPR: Coal Corruption Law Enforcement Must Not Consider Rank

The House of Representatives' Commission III has urged law enforcement to pursue accountability in the coal corruption and money laundering case without regard to the suspect's position. The call follows the police search of a café linked to the case and the heavy military guard placed at the home of a senior Attorney General's Office official. Police have warned that obstructing the investigation could lead to charges under the Anti-Corruption Law.

Digitalisation of Services Key to Jasa Raharja's Faster Response for Accident Victims

State-owned insurer PT Jasa Raharja has disbursed Rp1.22 trillion in compensation to 55,617 traffic accident victims up to May 2026, underscoring its commitment to rapid, digital-based public protection. The company's digital transformation, including the integration of 2,841 hospitals via the JRCare app, has significantly reduced administrative delays for medical guarantees. Jasa Raharja is also intensifying data-driven road safety programmes in collaboration with police and local governments to prevent accidents.

Marketplace tax collection helps regulate digital economy: Economist

An economist from CORE Indonesia has stated that the new 0.5 percent income tax collection on marketplace transactions will help formalise the rapidly growing digital economy. The policy aims to create a fairer treatment between online and offline businesses by automating tax collection through major platforms. The government is focusing on building a culture of tax compliance, with micro-enterprises earning below Rp500 million exempted from automatic deductions.

Education Ministry trains teachers to strengthen coding and AI competencies

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has launched a self-directed training programme to enhance teachers' capabilities in deep learning, coding, and artificial intelligence. Minister Abdul Mu'ti highlighted that improving teacher quality is crucial to addressing educational disparities across Indonesia. The initiative adopts a Teacher Experimental Training method, enabling schools to function as learning laboratories where educators can directly apply new skills in their subjects.

BPS: Unsurveyed Businesses Can Submit Data Online

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) in Tangerang City is providing an online data submission method via Computer Assisted Web Interviewing (CAWI) for business operators who could not be met during the ongoing economic census. The census, which targets various businesses including those in shopping centres, aims to provide a comprehensive overview of economic development. Officials have assured respondents that all submitted data will be kept confidential and used solely for statistical and policy-making purposes.

Megawati says Indonesia and Timor-Leste have found a path of civilisation

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri declared that Indonesia and Timor-Leste have moved beyond past conflicts, forging a strong fraternal bond based on remembering without resentment and forgiving without forgetting. Speaking at a presidential lecture in Dili, she reflected on the emotional moment of Timor-Leste's independence restoration 24 years ago, framing it not as a separation but as the birth of a sibling nation. Megawati also proposed strategic cooperation in economic development, research, and political party cadre training between the two countries.

PDIP's Dede Supports Kortas Tipikor in Investigating Coal Corruption, Calls for Inter-Agency Synergy

Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III, Dede Indra Permana Soediro, has voiced strong support for the police anti-corruption unit's investigation into alleged coal supply corruption linked to blackouts in Sumatra. He urged all law enforcement agencies to work synergistically and professionally, emphasising that the case involves critical public interests. The investigation, which has drawn the attention of President Prabowo Subianto, also encompasses alleged corruption at ASABRI and a debt settlement case involving a subsidiary of state-owned Krakatau Steel.

Prabowo Launches B50 Biodiesel, Bahlil: No More Need for Diesel Imports

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the B50 biodiesel programme, mandating a 50 percent palm oil blend in diesel fuel sold across Indonesia. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated the policy will eliminate the need for diesel imports, which currently stand at 3-4 million kilolitres annually. The government conducted six months of trials across various sectors and has set a transition period until September 2026 for fuel companies to exhaust existing B40 stocks.

Gowa DPRD Summons Regent for 14 July Inquiry Hearing

The Gowa Regency DPRD's special committee has scheduled a hearing for 14 July to summon Regent Sitti Husniah Talenrang for questioning. The inquiry is examining allegations of abuse of authority, irregularities in free school uniform procurement, and other governance issues. The Regent has stated she is ready to attend and hopes the process will resolve the ongoing disputes.

Pramono Anung Prepares 11 New Flats in Jakarta with Ministry of Public Housing

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans to build 11 new low-cost apartment blocks (rusun) to address housing needs in the capital. Two of the projects will commence soon using the regional budget, while the remaining nine will be developed in collaboration with the central government's Ministry of Public Housing. The initiative aims to support President Prabowo Subianto's national programme to build three million homes.

House Commission III Backs Police to Investigate Corruption: 'No Matter if They're Officials or Businessmen'

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has expressed full support for the National Police's efforts to investigate a major coal corruption and money laundering case. The legislator stressed that all individuals, regardless of their status as officials or businesspeople, must be treated equally under the law. Police have expanded their investigation, conducting searches at 12 locations across Jakarta, South Tangerang, and Bogor.

ISESS Urges Corruption Probe by Police's Kortas Tipikor to Be Free from Intervention

A police observer has called for the investigation into a coal supply corruption scandal linked to blackouts in Sumatra to be swift, transparent, and free from military or political interference. The analyst specifically criticised the recent presence of military personnel at the Metro Jaya Police headquarters, arguing it oversteps professional military doctrine and undermines law enforcement. He also warned that a presidential regulation on prosecutor protection must not be used to shield allegedly corrupt behaviour.

INNOPROM as a Golden Gateway for Indonesian Industry Expansion into Eurasia

Indonesia's participation as the Official Partner Country at INNOPROM 2026 in Russia marks a strategic push to penetrate non-traditional markets in Eurasia. The event showcases the nation's advanced manufacturing capabilities, from AI and maritime components to creative industries, aiming to attract investment and technology transfer. This move signals Indonesia's growing confidence in elevating its industrial sector onto the global stage.

Mayapada inaugurates first hospital in East Jakarta, strengthening international-standard healthcare services

Mayapada Healthcare has officially opened its eighth hospital, Mayapada Hospital Jakarta Timur, marking its first facility in East Jakarta. The inauguration was attended by Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung, who praised the group's contribution to the capital's healthcare ecosystem. The hospital aims to provide high-quality domestic care, reducing the need for Indonesians to seek treatment abroad.

OJK Seizes IDR 113.97 Billion in Assets from Indosurya Insurance

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has seized assets worth IDR 113.97 billion from PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife, formerly known as PT Asuransi Jiwa Indosurya Sukses. The seizure follows an investigation revealing the company used customer funds for personal gain and failed to comply with an OJK order to pay IDR 566.24 billion in compensation. The action underscores the regulator's commitment to consumer protection and legal certainty in the financial sector.

Risks of Plain Cigarette Packaging Rules: Farmers and the State Could Both Lose

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XI has warned that implementing plain packaging for tobacco products could trigger significant economic risks. The policy threatens to undermine state revenue from excise taxes, which reached Rp 221 trillion, and could jeopardise the livelihoods of millions in the tobacco supply chain. Lawmakers also caution that standardised packaging may lead to intellectual property disputes and a surge in illicit cigarette trade.

To Strengthen Rupiah, Economist Calculates Indonesia Needs US$11 Billion in Foreign Investment

Indonesia requires an additional US$8-11 billion in foreign capital inflows during the second half of 2026 to stabilise the rupiah, according to Trimegah Sekuritas. The chief economist emphasised that investor confidence hinges on fiscal consolidation, bond yield normalisation, and credible monetary policy. A property sector CEO warned that prolonged currency volatility deters long-term industrial investment, as foreign investors may opt for short-term commitments rather than purchasing land or building factories.

Iran Insists Strait of Hormuz Will Only Reopen Under Its 'Arrangement'

Iran's chief negotiator has declared the Strait of Hormuz will only be reopened under Tehran's terms, following a sharp escalation of military strikes with the United States. The warning came as both sides exchanged attacks on military targets, with Iran accusing the US of violating a ceasefire and reimposing oil sanctions. The renewed tensions threaten the security of the vital shipping lane after several commercial vessels were attacked.

Lahadalia said B50 to save US$9.35 billion in forex

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced that the B50 biodiesel programme could save approximately Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange by eliminating diesel imports. The mandate, launched by President Prabowo Subianto, is also expected to increase the use of crude palm oil and create over two million jobs. The policy forms part of the government's strategy to bolster energy security and reduce reliance on imported fuel.

House Commission III Urges TNI, Police, and AGO to Remain United

A senior Indonesian lawmaker has called for solidarity between the military, police, and the Attorney General's Office in combating corruption, warning that graft could disrupt President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes. The appeal follows heightened tensions after armed soldiers guarded a senior prosecutor's home in response to a police raid on a café linked to a major coal corruption investigation. The case involves alleged corruption and money laundering in coal supply, which previously caused a total blackout in Sumatra.

Bank BSN Reinforces Position as Sharia Mortgage Bank, Targets 73,700 FLPP Mortgages in 2026

PT Bank Syariah Nasional (Bank BSN) is strengthening its role as a sharia mortgage bank, with 96 per cent of its portfolio now in the housing sector. The bank aims to distribute 73,700 subsidised mortgages through the FLPP scheme in 2026, having already reached 28,000 units by mid-year. Bank BSN is also expanding into non-subsidised mortgages while maintaining prudent risk management.

Indonesia foils nearly 3 kg gold smuggling bid to Malaysia

Indonesian customs officials at Banda Aceh’s Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport have thwarted an attempt to smuggle nearly three kilogrammes of gold bars worth an estimated Rp7.2 billion to Malaysia. The foreign national suspect was arrested after failing to declare the items, marking the second such seizure at the airport. Authorities are now investigating the gold’s origin to determine if it came from illegal mining, while customs reaffirmed its commitment to protecting state revenue and strengthening export surveillance.

Habiburokhman Responds to Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah's Name Emerging in Coal Corruption Case

House of Representatives Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has responded to the emergence of Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes Febrie Adriansyah's name in a coal corruption investigation. He stated that law enforcement must be impartial and that anyone with strong evidence against them should be held accountable. The case involves a police investigation into alleged corruption in coal commodity governance, which reportedly contributed to mass power outages.

Jakarta MRT North-South Tunnel Breakthrough Connects Bundaran HI to Kota

PT MRT Jakarta has completed the 5.8-kilometre northbound tunnel connecting Bundaran HI Station to Kota Station, marking a significant milestone for the project's Phase 2A. The breakthrough occurred at Mangga Besar Station, with the tunnel reaching a depth of 28 metres, making it the deepest railway tunnel in Indonesia. The overall Phase 2A construction progress has reached 61.3 per cent, with the first segment to Monas targeted for operation by the end of 2027.

President Prabowo Reports Discovery of Massive Gold and Mineral Reserves in Papua

President Prabowo Subianto has announced the discovery of significant gold and mineral deposits in the Papuan highlands following a scientific expedition. The joint mission, involving BRIN, universities, and the Indonesian military, reported the findings after just two to three weeks of exploration. Prabowo also highlighted recent discoveries of large natural gas reserves in regions including the Andaman Sea, Masela, Natuna, and Kalimantan, asserting a bright economic future for Indonesia.

Sultan HB X Visits Sentono and Sendang Sumberan Historical Sites in Sragen

The Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, visited historical sites in Sragen, Central Java, as part of the Yogyakarta 2026 cultural goodwill tour. The visit aimed to strengthen cultural ties between Yogyakarta and the Mataraman region. The Sultan emphasised the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the area for the community.

Ciangir Prison Develops Layer Chicken Farming, Producing 860 kg of Eggs Daily

Ciangir Class II B Prison in Banten has developed a layer chicken farming programme involving inmates, now producing 860 kilogrammes of eggs per day. The initiative supplies prison food needs and external markets, including hotels in Tangerang and Jakarta, while providing inmates with vocational skills and monthly premiums. The programme is part of a broader food security drive that also includes sheep, cattle, and vegetable cultivation.

Gejayan Road from Condongcatur to Selokan Mataram to Be Repaired in One Month

A 1.4-kilometre stretch of Jalan Affandi (Gejayan) in Sleman will undergo maintenance for one month starting 13 July 2026. The work will be carried out at night to minimise daytime congestion, with the east lane closed entirely and traffic diverted to a contraflow system on the west lane. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution and consider alternative routes during the project.

West Java to be Renamed Tatar Sunda: What Are the Stages of the Process?

The proposal to rename West Java province to Tatar Sunda is progressing, with the regional parliament submitting its recommendations to the provincial government. A legal expert outlines the complex legislative process required, including inclusion in the national legislation programme and revision of the relevant law. The initiative has gained political momentum following formal engagement with the West Java Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD).

Jakarta High Court Reduces Sentences for Four Defendants in Crude Oil Corruption Case to 7 and 8 Years

The Jakarta High Court has reduced the prison sentences of four defendants in a major crude oil governance corruption case. Yoki Firnandi, Gading Ramadhan Joedo, and Maya Kusmaya had their sentences cut to seven years, while Dimas Werhaspati's was reduced to eight years. The case involves state losses estimated at Rp 285 trillion linked to fuel imports and non-subsidised diesel sales.

Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat Forms Task Force to Monitor Landfills Amid Fire Season

Environment Minister Jumhur Hidayat announced the formation of a new task force to monitor landfills across Indonesia as the country enters the dry season, following a major fire at the Jatiwaringin landfill in Tangerang. The fire, which started on 30 June 2026, has been reduced from three hectares to 1.5 hectares after ten days of firefighting efforts. The ministry has also urged all regional governments to increase vigilance at waste disposal sites.

Superbank partners with OVO to launch integrated digital financing service

Superbank and OVO have launched 'Pinjaman Atur Sendiri' (PAS), a flexible, unsecured digital loan product accessible via the OVO app. The collaboration builds on the success of their savings product and aims to make formal financing more inclusive for millions of Indonesians. Superbank's credit disbursement grew over 59% year-on-year as of May 2026, driven by deeper integration with the Grab and OVO ecosystems.

Far Surpassing B40, Bahlil Reveals B50 Advantages After 6-Month Trial

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia announced that the B50 biodiesel programme has demonstrated superior performance and mechanical benefits compared to its predecessor, B40, following a six-month trial. The higher blend fuel is reported to offer cleaner combustion, extended filter life, and reduced maintenance costs. The government officially launched the B50 mandate, aiming to strengthen national energy sovereignty and reduce import dependency.

Banten Manpower Office Ready to Follow Up Complaints via 'Lapor Menaker'

The Banten Provincial Manpower and Transmigration Office (Disnakertrans) has pledged to follow up on labour complaints submitted through the central government's 'Lapor Menaker' channel. The initiative aims to enhance the resolution of employment disputes and strengthen the enforcement of labour norms. Coordination with the Ministry of Manpower will ensure complaints are directed to the appropriate authority, whether at the provincial, regency, or national level.

Mandiri Taspen Targets Silver Economy to Drive Growth

PT Bank Mandiri Taspen is optimistic about maintaining healthy and sustainable growth in the second half of 2026 by capitalising on the 'Silver Economy' trend. The bank plans to expand financing beyond its core pensioner segment to include senior entrepreneurs and productive MSMEs managed by retirees. It is also strengthening risk mitigation through digitalised underwriting and enhancing its digital banking platform, Movin.

President Officially Launches B50 Biodiesel Mandate Programme

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the B50 biodiesel mandate, requiring a 50 percent blend of biodiesel in diesel fuel, marking a significant step towards national energy independence. The programme, supported by Ministerial regulations, aims to reduce fuel imports, increase the value of crude palm oil, and cut greenhouse gas emissions. Businesses failing to comply with the blending mandate face sanctions ranging from written warnings to licence revocation, with a transition period allowed until September 2026.

Police Deny Shooting at National Nutrition Agency Office, Blame Heat for Shattered Glass

Jakarta police have dismissed reports of a shooting at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) office, clarifying that a shattered glass panel was caused by thermal expansion due to extreme temperature differences. The building manager confirmed that such incidents occur once or twice a year during the dry season.

Dukcapil Stresses Blood Type Not a Mandatory Requirement for e-KTP Issuance

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) has reminded regional offices that blood type data must not be used as a barrier to issuing electronic identity cards (e-KTP). While including blood type is beneficial for health services, citizens who do not know their blood type are still entitled to receive their e-KTP without delay. The ministry emphasised that administrative services must remain simple, fast, and non-discriminatory, with data updates permitted at a later date.

House Commission III Urges Police to Investigate Coal Corruption Without Fear or Favour

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has called on the police's Corruption Eradication Corps to thoroughly investigate alleged coal corruption, insisting all perpetrators be held accountable regardless of their status. The case involves suspected graft in coal supply linked to state-owned enterprises PLN, Asabri, and Krakatau Steel, which has reportedly caused significant state losses and contributed to regional power outages. Police have recently raided multiple locations, seizing 74 kilograms of gold bullion and foreign currency.

Indonesia Becomes Global Talking Point with B50 Biodiesel Launch, Says Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto declared that Indonesia is now a global focal point following the launch of the B50 biodiesel mandate, a 50% palm oil blend. The government claims the programme will eliminate diesel imports for the first time and cut carbon emissions by 44 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent. The policy is expected to save Rp 170 trillion in foreign exchange and absorb 2.1 million workers.

Overloaded Trucks Still Rampant, Causing 'Horror' Effects on Toll Roads

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works has raised the alarm over the high number of overloaded trucks causing significant damage to the nation's toll roads. Data reveals that over 20% of non-passenger vehicles on the Trans-Sumatra toll road are in violation, leading to premature road deterioration and increased safety risks. The government is calling for urgent enforcement to protect infrastructure and reduce accident fatality rates.

Ciangir Prison Chief Credits Imipas Food Security Programme for Boosting Facility's Productivity

The head of Ciangir Prison in Tangerang has reported a significant increase in productivity following the implementation of the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections' food self-sufficiency programme. The facility now produces 860 kilogrammes of eggs daily, some of which are supplied to hotels in Jakarta, alongside rice, vegetables, and livestock. The initiative is part of a broader 15-point action plan by the ministry to utilise idle land and support the government's national food security goals.

Bahlil Jokingly Threatens to Review Mining Work Plans for Firms Rejecting B50

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has jokingly threatened to review the work plans and budgets of mining companies that refuse to use B50 biodiesel. The remark was made during the launch of the mandatory B50 programme, which requires a 50 percent blend of biodiesel in diesel fuel. The initiative aims to cut fuel imports, boost domestic palm oil absorption, and is projected to save the country up to Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange.

IDX considers revising IPO target amid market volatility in 2026

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) is considering revising its target of 50 initial public offerings for 2026 due to high market volatility driven by domestic and global factors. Only six companies have listed so far this year, raising a combined Rp1.73 trillion, with another six in the pipeline. The exchange remains optimistic about overall market performance despite the uncertain conditions.

Locksmith Testifies Police Asked Him to Crack Safe in Sentul House Raid

A locksmith has testified that he was called by police to open a sophisticated, hidden safe in a Sentul residence, revealing 74 kg of gold bars and hundreds of billions of rupiah in cash. The discovery was part of a major investigation into alleged corruption and money laundering linked to coal procurement, Asabri, and PT Krakatau Steel. The case has drawn the direct attention of President Prabowo Subianto, according to police officials.

Central Java High Prosecutor's Office Denies Summoning Police Over Free Nutritious Meal Programme

The Central Java High Prosecutor's Office has clarified that it is not summoning police personnel for questioning but is instead conducting on-site data collection at all Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) service units. This follows a directive from the Central Java Police instructing its members not to comply with prosecutor summonses related to the programme. The data gathering is part of a nationwide initiative following an alleged corruption case at the National Nutrition Agency.

Jogja Last Friday Ride Speaks Out After Being Restricted from Entering Malioboro Area

The Jogja Last Friday Ride (JLFR) cycling community has responded to police restrictions barring them from entering the Malioboro area, calling for a fairer dialogue on public space usage. The group argues that while motor vehicle congestion is often normalised, community cycling activities are unfairly perceived as a disturbance. They expressed openness to evaluation but urged authorities to adopt a more proportional and humanist approach.

OJK Revises Carbon Exchange Rules, Mandates SRUK Registration

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a new regulation refining the governance of carbon trading through the carbon exchange. The updated rule mandates that all tradeable carbon units must be registered in the new Carbon Unit Registry System (SRUK), replacing the previous national registry. The regulation also expands the scope of carbon units and introduces provisions for trading foreign carbon units not listed on the SRUK.

Land ready, West Papua Provincial Government awaits realisation of Garuda School

The West Papua Provincial Government has completed the handover of 20 hectares of land in Susweni, Manokwari, for the construction of the national Sekolah Unggulan Garuda. Governor Dominggus Mandacan confirmed the land was granted to the central government in September 2025 and is now urging coordination to secure a construction schedule. The site is also planned to host a sports centre to support young athletes in the region.

Facts Behind the Emergency Bridge in Sumatra's Disaster Zone, Revealed in an Open Letter from Simalungun Residents

An open letter from residents of Simalungun, North Sumatra, highlighted the dire state of a makeshift bridge repeatedly destroyed by floods, disrupting access for schoolchildren and local farmers. The government has clarified that construction of a permanent bridge has been underway since January 2026 but has faced delays due to subsequent landslides, design adjustments, and logistical challenges. The project, valued at approximately Rp 4 billion, is now expected to be completed by August 2026, with a national task force scheduled to visit the site to facilitate its resolution.

TNI Confirms Security at Jampidsus Official's Home Follows Official Request and Regulations

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has clarified that the security provided at the home of the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes (Jampidsus) was carried out at the official request of the Attorney General's Office and in accordance with existing mechanisms. The TNI emphasised that the protection is solely for the execution of prosecutorial duties and is unrelated to other developing public issues. The statement comes amid reports of police searches in separate corruption investigations.

"Garuda" empowers youth eradicate poverty

Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment has launched the Garuda programme, which mobilises youth organisations to convert waste from Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units into marketable products like soap and maggots. The initiative, backed by state budget funding, is part of a broader government target to eliminate extreme poverty by 2026 under Presidential Instruction Number 8 of 2025. Nusa Cendana University has pledged its support, highlighting the collaborative effort required to uplift disadvantaged regions such as East Nusa Tenggara.

Prabowo Launches B50 Biodiesel, Eyes B100 Despite Ministerial Advice

President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme in Karawang, making Indonesia the first country in the world to implement such a blend. He revealed that he had initially pushed for a full B100 mandate but was convinced by his ministers that the B50 blend was sufficient to eliminate the need for diesel imports. The President urged Pertamina and researchers to continue innovation towards B60 and announced plans to award state honours to key figures behind the programme's success.

Deputy Minister Corrects Disinformation on 60,000 University Candidates Dropping Out Due to Tuition Fees

Deputy Minister for Higher Education Stella Christie has clarified that a viral claim about 60,000 prospective students withdrawing from state universities is based on misinterpreted data from the previous year. She explained that the figure largely represents unfilled seats rather than students who declined offers, and that financial aid mechanisms exist for those from low-income families. The government is urging students facing economic difficulties to appeal rather than abandon their places.

Bahlil Announces Indonesia No Longer Imports Diesel Due to B50 Policy

Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia has declared that Indonesia has ceased diesel imports following the implementation of the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme. The policy, which mandates a 50 percent blend of biodiesel in diesel fuel, aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's vision for national energy sovereignty. The government aims to strengthen energy independence and reduce reliance on imported fuel through this strategic initiative.

Prabowo: Our Future Is Very Bright!

President Prabowo Subianto expressed optimism about Indonesia's future during the launch of the B50 biodiesel programme. He highlighted that the palm oil-blended fuel policy could save the country Rp 170 trillion in foreign exchange by reducing diesel imports. The President also cited successful law enforcement against tin smuggling and the discovery of new gold and mineral reserves in Papua as further reasons for a positive outlook.

Welcoming New Students with Strengthened Literacy

As the new academic year begins in Indonesia, schools are urged to transform student orientation programmes into meaningful platforms for character building and literacy development. The article argues that the MPLS and MATAMUDA programmes should move beyond ceremonial formalities to embed essential 21st-century skills, including digital, financial, and cultural literacy. This approach is presented as a strategic investment to prepare students for the challenges of the digital age and foster lifelong learning.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Sales Break Records Amid Global Smartphone Slump

Despite a global downturn in the smartphone market driven by rising component costs, Samsung's flagship Galaxy S26 series has achieved record-breaking sales. The premium model sold 3 million units in South Korea within 117 days, significantly outpacing its predecessor. Analysts attribute the success to advanced AI features and competitive pricing, though they remain cautious about the momentum's longevity.

Examining the Dark Side of AI Dependency in the Workplace and Academia

A growing reliance on artificial intelligence is fostering a culture of intellectual laziness and plagiarism, with users often copying AI-generated content without verification. Experts warn that this trend, combined with careless sharing of sensitive data with chatbots, threatens to erode critical thinking skills and trigger serious data breaches.

Transjakarta Fare Hike Proposed, Jakarta Administration to Expand Free Ride Eligibility

The Jakarta provincial government is considering a Transjakarta fare increase alongside an expansion of the free travel scheme. Governor Pramono Anung stated that discussions are ongoing, with plans to add six new categories of residents to the existing 15 groups eligible for the Kartu Layanan Gratis (KLG). The move is intended as a compensatory measure to protect vulnerable populations from the financial impact of the proposed tariff adjustment.

Locksmith Reveals Details of High-Security Safe in Bogor Corruption Probe

A locksmith involved in a police raid in Sentul, Bogor, has detailed the sophisticated security features of a safe containing hundreds of billions of rupiah. The safe, valued at over Rp20 million, featured a dual-locking system and double-layered steel construction. It was ultimately opened using a grinder during an investigation into alleged corruption at PLN, ASABRI, and Krakatau Steel.

House Leadership Denies Delaying Election Bill Deliberations

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Cucun Ahmad Syamsurizal, has refuted claims that the deliberation of the Election Bill is being postponed. He stated that the process will proceed once the necessary preparations are complete, despite Commission II having already drafted a list of issues. The formal discussion awaits the establishment of a working committee by the House leadership.

Special Autonomy Fund Ceiling for Six Central Papua Administrations Increases by IDR 447 Billion

The special autonomy (Otsus) fund ceiling for six regional governments in Central Papua Province has been increased by IDR 447 billion, bringing the total allocation for 2026 to IDR 1.688 trillion. The largest increase was allocated to the Central Papua Provincial Government, which saw its ceiling rise from IDR 305.2 billion to IDR 661.2 billion. While the funds have been transferred to regional accounts, disbursement is pending the finalisation of the Regional Budget Plan for the Special Autonomy Programme as required by the central government.

Eight BPRs Merge into PT BPR Pusaka Dana to Strengthen Capital and Competitiveness

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved the merger of eight rural banks (BPR) into PT BPR Pusaka Dana, a move aimed at bolstering capital structure and competitiveness. The consolidation, effective 1 July 2026, transfers all assets, liabilities, and operations of the eight banks to the surviving entity based in South Tangerang. This strategic step aligns with OJK regulations and the industry roadmap to create healthier, more efficient, and resilient rural banks.

Prabowo Speaks Candidly About People Hoping for Indonesia's Collapse

President Prabowo Subianto has claimed that certain parties within Indonesia are hoping for the nation's collapse, spreading narratives of chaos and gloom. He made the remarks during the launch of the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme in Karawang, West Java. Prabowo contrasted this negativity with national pride, highlighting that Indonesia is the first country in the world to implement the B50 mandate.

Inmates Earn Rp 800,000 Monthly from Livestock Farming at Ciangir Prison

Inmates at Ciangir Prison in Tangerang, Banten, are earning up to Rp 800,000 per month through a livestock and agriculture empowerment programme. The initiative provides prisoners with practical skills in animal husbandry, including disease identification and treatment. Participants hope to apply their new knowledge to earn a living upon release.

Indonesia Becomes First Country to Launch B50 Biodiesel Fuel

President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the mandatory use of B50 biodiesel, a fuel blend containing 50% palm oil, marking Indonesia as the first nation globally to implement such a policy. The initiative aims to eliminate diesel imports, saving an estimated Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange, while strengthening national energy sovereignty. The government has confirmed technical readiness and will provide a three-month transition period before the fuel is available at public stations.

Israel Responds to New US Strikes on Iran, Says It Is Ready to Join

Israel has declared its military is on high alert and prepared to join US operations against Iran, following the latest American strikes. The escalation comes after former President Trump declared a previous memorandum of understanding with Tehran void and threatened further attacks. Reports indicate explosions in several Iranian cities, while Iran's Revolutionary Guard claims to have retaliated against US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain.

10 Indonesian Issuers That Once Reigned Supreme, Now Faltering: Some Have Gone Bankrupt

A number of once-dominant Indonesian companies, including Bata, Ramayana, and Sritex, have seen their fortunes fade due to shifting consumer habits, digital competition, and mounting debt. While some still manage to post profits, others are grappling with deep losses or have entered bankruptcy and liquidation. The analysis highlights how even the most established corporate giants can fall when they fail to adapt to market changes.

Ministry pushes for talent, infrastructure boost to build sovereign AI

Indonesia's Communication and Digital Ministry is advocating for a comprehensive ecosystem encompassing digital talent, computing infrastructure, and semiconductor supply chains to develop sovereign artificial intelligence. A ministry official stressed that microchips are now strategic instruments of national security, and the country must move beyond exporting raw minerals to foster domestic processing and manufacturing through international technology transfer. The government is also preparing regulatory frameworks for future technologies like quantum computing to ensure secure and economically beneficial digital transformation.

Banjarnegara Tourism Office: 'Embun Upas' frost becomes Dieng tourist magnet

The Banjarnegara Tourism and Culture Office reports that the seasonal 'embun upas' frost phenomenon in the Dieng Plateau has significantly boosted tourist numbers during the school holidays. The frost, which forms when early morning temperatures drop below freezing, has appeared multiple times this dry season, with a record low of minus 6 degrees Celsius recorded on 9 July. Officials hope the cold weather persists to enhance the upcoming Dieng Culture Festival in August.

Malaysia and Thailand Discuss Trade Cooperation and Regional Connectivity

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met in Putrajaya to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on trade, investment, and border development. The leaders emphasised accelerating regional connectivity projects, including the ASEAN Power Grid and cross-border links, to boost economic activity. Both nations also exchanged views on regional issues such as the situation in Myanmar and the peace process in Southern Thailand.

Health Ministry Highlights New Leprosy Cases with Grade 2 Disability

Indonesia's Ministry of Health has raised concerns over the continued detection of new leprosy cases already presenting with grade 2 disability, including among children, signalling gaps in early detection. The government is accelerating efforts to meet the WHO's 2030 'Towards Zero Leprosy' targets, focusing on active case finding and surveillance. Indonesia currently ranks third globally for leprosy burden, prompting calls for a strategic review and stronger local implementation of national policies.

President Prabowo Launches Nationwide B50 Biodiesel Implementation

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme, requiring a 50 percent palm oil blend in diesel fuel. The initiative aims to reduce Indonesia's reliance on imported fuel, enhance the value of national resources, and bolster economic and energy security. The launch took place at a rest area on the Cikampek Toll Road in West Java.

Travel Vlogger Scammer Arrested After Being Detected by Manggarai Station CCTV

A man suspected of defrauding a travel vlogger was arrested at Manggarai Station in South Jakarta after KAI Commuter's CCTV Analytic system identified his face. The suspect had allegedly posed as a civil servant named Sadam Husein to deceive the victim at Duri Station in early May 2026. KAI Commuter has urged passengers to remain vigilant and not to trust strangers easily.

BNPB: Cause of forest and land fires in North Padang Lawas under investigation

The cause of a forest and land fire that scorched approximately five hectares in North Padang Lawas Regency, North Sumatra, is currently under investigation by authorities. The blaze, which began on Wednesday afternoon in Portibi District, was tackled by a joint team of local disaster response personnel and residents. Efforts focused on containing the fire adjacent to oil palm plantations.

House Commission III Urges TNI-Polri Solidarity in Supporting Government's Anti-Corruption Drive

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has called for the military and police to remain united in backing the government's anti-corruption efforts. The appeal follows police searches related to an alleged money laundering and coal corruption case. The legislator emphasised that energy security is a national priority and urged all law enforcement agencies to work transparently to punish those involved.

South Sumatra Police Foil Smuggling of 21 Tonnes of Illegal Diesel in Gandus Waters

The South Sumatra Regional Police's Water and Air Directorate intercepted the smuggling of 21 tonnes of illegally processed diesel at a pier in Palembang, arresting five suspects. The operation, part of intensified patrols along the Musi River, also seized modified trucks, tugboats, and pumping equipment. Authorities stated the crackdown aims to protect state revenue, safeguard energy distribution, and maintain a healthy investment climate.

Government Targets Initial Investment of Up to Rp 500 Trillion in Financial Centre

The Indonesian government projects that the initial phase of the International Financial Centre (PFII) could attract global investments ranging from Rp 300 trillion to Rp 500 trillion. These figures remain estimates and will depend heavily on Indonesia's ability to compete with established hubs like Singapore and Dubai. The government is considering more competitive regulations, including foreign ownership adjustments and the adoption of common law principles, to enhance the centre's appeal.

Adara Invites Public to Create Art for Al-Aqsa and Palestine

Adara Relief International has launched 'Art & Craft for Palestine', a programme encouraging Indonesians to express solidarity through creative works. Over 400 pieces, including macramé keychains and brooches, have been collected ahead of a celebration event in Jakarta. The initiative aims to foster empathy and raise support for Palestinians through peaceful, inclusive artistic expression.

Strait of Hormuz Shipping Nearly Halted After Latest Attacks

Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has almost ground to a halt following a second day of US strikes on Iran, raising fears over the security of a critical global trade artery. Vessel tracking data shows activity is largely confined to Iranian-approved northern lanes, while the US-backed route along the Omani coast is virtually deserted. The disruption threatens to severely impact oil and goods shipments, with electronic interference also detected in the Gulf of Oman.

Lampung Governor: Five road sections in West Lampung to be completed by year-end

Lampung Governor Rahmat Mirzani Djausal has announced that the construction of five road sections in West Lampung Regency, spanning 112.9 kilometres and costing approximately Rp45 billion, is targeted for completion by December 2026. The project aims to unlock the agricultural potential of the Bandar Negeri Suoh and Suoh districts, which are key producers of rice, coffee, cocoa, and coconuts. Improved infrastructure is expected to facilitate the distribution of agricultural products and support the national food self-sufficiency programme.

NTB Provincial Government Partners with University of Mataram to Strengthen Empowered Villages

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government has signed a memorandum of understanding with the University of Mataram to accelerate village development through the 'Desa Berdaya' (Empowered Village) programme. The collaboration will see 22 professors deployed to provide scientific mentorship aimed at fostering economic independence and institutional capacity in villages. The initiative marks a strategic shift from relying solely on social assistance to delivering innovation and direct academic support to rural communities.

Biosolar B50 Officially Launched, Prabowo: Indonesia the First Country to Implement

Indonesia has officially launched the B50 biodiesel programme, becoming the first nation globally to mandate a 50 per cent blend of biodiesel in diesel fuel. President Prabowo Subianto hailed the move as a strategic milestone towards energy self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on fossil fuel imports. The policy is backed by ministerial regulations and includes a transition period for fuel providers until September 2026.

Russian National Kidnapped for 30 Hours in Bali, Assailants Demanded Crypto Account

A Russian national was abducted and held captive for 30 hours in South Kuta, Bali, by two unknown assailants who demanded access to his cryptocurrency account. The victim was physically assaulted, robbed of his mobile phones, and his villa was burgled before he was dumped near a hospital. Bali police are conducting a manhunt and digital forensic analysis to identify the perpetrators, emphasising their commitment to protecting foreign nationals and Bali's tourism image.

DJP Sends Warning Letters to Tax Delinquents, Late Payment Penalties Apply

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has begun issuing warning emails to taxpayers with outstanding liabilities. The tax authority confirmed the official sender domain is @pajak.go.id and provided instructions for settling payments via the Coretax system. Taxpayers are reminded that delaying payment will result in sanctions in accordance with applicable regulations.

Prabowo Announces Discovery of Major Gas Reserves in Andaman Block

President Prabowo Subianto has announced the discovery of significant new gas reserves in the Andaman Block off the coast of Aceh, adding to Indonesia's substantial natural resource wealth. The upstream regulator SKK Migas is targeting the project to begin operations by 2028, ahead of the Masela Block schedule, with initial gas allocated to PLN for power generation.

Trump Claims US Has Many Ways to Win Conflict with Iran

President Donald Trump has stated he is uncertain whether tensions with Iran will escalate into a full-scale military conflict, but asserted the United States possesses numerous strategies to secure victory. His remarks followed a series of devastating US strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks by Iranian forces on American bases in Bahrain and Kuwait. The exchange of fire marks a significant intensification in hostilities between the two nations.

Police: BGN Office Window Shattered Due to Hot Weather

Police have concluded that a shattered glass panel at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) office in Central Jakarta was caused by thermal stress from hot weather combined with indoor air conditioning. The building manager reported that such incidents occur once or twice a year during the dry season. Officers from the Indonesia Automatic Fingerprint Identification System (Inafis) were deployed to the scene to investigate.

Setara Institute Urges President Prabowo to Act Against TNI Members Obstructing Justice

The Setara Institute has called on President Prabowo Subianto to intervene after dozens of armed military personnel allegedly obstructed a corruption investigation by the Jakarta Metropolitan Police. The organisation warns that using the military to shield suspects represents a dangerous abuse of power and a betrayal of civil supremacy. The incident reportedly occurred after investigators raided locations linked to corruption cases involving state-owned enterprises and a senior prosecutor's office official.

Bahlil Confirms B50 Launch Will End Indonesia's Diesel Imports

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has confirmed that Indonesia will cease diesel imports following the official launch of the B50 biodiesel mandate. The minister stated that the achievement, realised under President Prabowo's directive, marks a significant step towards national energy sovereignty. The implementation was accelerated, bypassing the typical decade-long transition period.

All DPR Commission III Factions Back Police Anti-Corruption Corps in Coal Corruption Probe

All factions within the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission III have unanimously expressed support for the National Police's Anti-Corruption Corps (Kortas Tipikor) investigation into alleged corruption in coal supply fulfilment. The case, which is under the direct attention of President Prabowo Subianto, is suspected of causing significant state losses and triggering power blackouts in Sumatra. The investigation is being conducted jointly with the Metro Jaya Police's Special Criminal Investigation Directorate and also encompasses related probes into PT ASABRI and a debt settlement case involving a subsidiary of Krakatau Steel.

Three PAM Jaya Workers Die After Suspected Gas Poisoning in Culvert

Three workers from the Jakarta-owned water utility PAM Jaya died after allegedly being poisoned by gas while working in a culvert in East Jakarta. The incident occurred on Thursday morning, with rescue teams from the East Jakarta Fire and Rescue Service evacuating the victims over a two-hour period. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the incident, which took place during infrastructure maintenance work.

Bahlil Reveals B50 Programme Could Save Rp170 Trillion in Foreign Exchange and Absorb 2.1 Million Workers

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced that the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme could save the country approximately Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange by eliminating diesel imports. The policy, launched by President Prabowo Subianto, is also projected to absorb 2.1 million workers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 44.46 million tonnes of CO2 in 2026. The initiative marks the first time Indonesia will cease importing diesel fuel.

President Prabowo Launches B50 Biodiesel Programme

President Prabowo Subianto officially launched the B50 biodiesel programme in Karawang, West Java, marking a significant step in Indonesia's national energy transition. The policy mandates a 50 percent blend of palm oil-based biofuel in diesel, aiming to eliminate the need for diesel imports. The launch was attended by key ministers and officials, reinforcing the government's commitment to renewable energy and energy self-sufficiency.

Prabowo Launches B50 Biodiesel, Indonesia Aims to Halt Diesel Imports for Vehicles

President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the B50 biodiesel programme, a fuel blended with 50 per cent biofuel, marking a significant step in Indonesia's energy transition. The government expects the policy to fully meet national diesel demand, eliminating the need for imports. The mandate applies to all diesel-powered vehicles and is enforced through new ministerial regulations.

B50 Biodiesel Officially Launched, Claimed Superior to B40

The Indonesian government has officially launched the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme, with Minister Bahlil Lahadalia claiming it outperforms B40 in engine filter longevity. The policy mandates a 50 percent palm oil blend in diesel fuel and is projected to significantly cut fuel imports while boosting the domestic palm oil industry. The government estimates the programme will save Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 44.46 million tonnes of CO₂.

Central Java Police Instruct Personnel to Defy Prosecutor Summons Amid MBG Corruption Probe

The Central Java Regional Police have ordered their personnel not to comply with summonses from the District Prosecutor's Office regarding the management of the Free Nutritious Meals programme. The directive, which requires any questioning to occur at police stations with legal accompaniment, comes as the Attorney General's Office investigates alleged corruption within the national programme.

idEA: Marketplaces Continue to Adjust Systems to Support Income Tax Collection

The Indonesian E-Commerce Association (idEA) reports that the initial implementation of income tax collection via marketplaces is proceeding well, with platforms making necessary system adjustments. The policy, effective 1 August 2026, involves Shopee, Tokopedia, Lazada, and Blibli collecting PPh Article 22 on domestic merchant transactions. Despite smooth early progress, many sellers still have questions about the new collection mechanism and regulations.

Police: Shattered Glass at National Nutrition Agency Office Caused by Heat, Not Shooting

Jakarta police have dismissed rumours of a shooting at the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) office in Central Jakarta, clarifying that a shattered glass panel was caused by thermal expansion due to extreme heat. The building's management confirmed that such incidents have occurred previously during the dry season.

Employees No Longer Automatically Qualify as Tax Agents, Here Are the Complete Rules

Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati has issued a new regulation removing the automatic right of company employees to act as tax agents, even if they hold tax certifications. The updated rules, effective from 6 July 2026, restrict the role to certified tax consultants and registered third parties. A transitional provision allows existing employee agents to continue serving until 31 December 2026.

56 Percent of Diesel Already Using B50, Says Minister Bahlil

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced that 56 percent of Indonesia's diesel consumption already uses the B50 biodiesel blend, with a full transition expected within two months. The mandatory B50 programme, launched by President Prabowo Subianto, aims to reduce fuel imports and strengthen energy security. The policy is projected to save foreign exchange, increase palm oil value, and cut greenhouse gas emissions.

South Kalimantan BRIDA Selects 88 Regional Innovations for National Competition

The South Kalimantan Regional Research and Innovation Agency (BRIDA) has received 88 proposals for the 2026 Kalsel Innovation Award, spanning government agencies and the general public. The initiative aims to strengthen the local innovation ecosystem and prepare the best entries for national-level competitions. A jury will assess the submissions based on novelty, benefit, sustainability, and their potential to enhance public services and regional development.

Prabowo: Many So-Called Intellectuals Accuse Government of Lying About Food Self-Sufficiency

President Prabowo Subianto has hit back at critics who accuse his administration of fabricating claims of food self-sufficiency, asserting that Indonesia achieved the milestone within a single year instead of the targeted four. Speaking at the launch of the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme in Karawang, he stressed that food, energy, and water sovereignty are existential necessities for national survival. He condemned leaders who lie to the public as sinful and treacherous to the national interest.

BAIC Unveils New Weapon, a Potential 'Killer' of the Ioniq 5 and BYD Dolphin

PT JIO Distribusi Indonesia has officially launched the BAIC T1, the brand's first battery electric vehicle in the country, marking its entry into Indonesia's competitive EV market. The crossover hatchback is priced around Rp300 million and boasts a range of up to 425 kilometres with fast-charging capability. The launch intensifies competition against established models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and BYD Dolphin ahead of the GIIAS 2026 motor show.

Coordinating Minister Muhaimin Visits Workplace Accident Victim, Ensures Maximum BPJS Employment Protection

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar visited a worker recovering from a severe workplace accident in Bali to affirm the government's commitment to social security. The worker's treatment, costing IDR 1.7 billion since 2024, has been fully covered by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan. Muhaimin urged all workers and companies to maintain active participation in the national insurance schemes to ensure comprehensive protection against occupational risks.

Artificial Intelligence in the Intellectual Whirlpool of Students

The integration of Artificial Intelligence into education is fundamentally reshaping how students learn and process knowledge, creating a complex dynamic of opportunity and risk. While AI offers personalised and efficient learning, it also raises concerns about critical thinking skills and academic ethics. This transformation is not a decline in intellect but a shift in cognitive processes, positioning AI as a catalyst for a new form of intellectual evolution.

TNI Headquarters Denies Deployment of Troops to Metro Jaya Police HQ

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Headquarters has refuted claims circulating on social media that soldiers armed with long-barrelled weapons were deployed to the Metro Jaya Police headquarters. The denial addresses a viral video that linked the alleged presence of troops to a witness being held in a coal corruption investigation. Officials described the reports as untrue and provocative.

Garut BPBD Maps Drought and Forest Fire Prone Areas Ahead of Dry Season

The Garut Regency Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) has mapped areas vulnerable to drought and forest fires in preparation for the 2026 dry season. All 42 districts in the region are classified as having a moderate drought risk, with ten districts identified as top priorities for preparedness. The agency is also urging water conservation and fire prevention measures among residents.

Tourism Ministry reveals five main attractions for foreign tourists holidaying in Indonesia

Indonesia's Tourism Ministry has identified culture, cuisine, and quality events as the top draws for international visitors, based on a survey of 15.6 million foreign tourists. The findings will underpin a national promotional strategy that emphasises cultural preservation and local culinary excellence. The ministry also highlighted the importance of attractive travel packages and stakeholder collaboration to boost competitiveness during low seasons.

East Java Police Officer Uses Personal Funds for Rp20 Million Bounty on Suspect in Bangkalan Official's Murder

Aipda Sigit Dwi Susanto, a police investigator in East Java, has clarified that a Rp20 million bounty for information leading to the arrest of a murder suspect was funded entirely from his own pocket and donations, not from the police budget. The suspect, identified as Erlan, is wanted in connection with the killing of a housing official whose body was found in a car at Juanda Airport. Authorities believe the bounty will help narrow the suspect's movements as he continues to evade capture.

House Commission III backs police probe into alleged PLTU coal supply corruption

The House of Representatives' Commission III has endorsed a police investigation into alleged corruption in coal procurement and supply for several steam power plants (PLTUs) between 2018 and 2026. The alleged irregularities are suspected of contributing to mass blackouts in Sumatra and other regions. The Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortastipidkor) has identified potential manipulation of documents and coal supply quantities.

Minister Bahlil Launches B50 Biodiesel Programme, Assures 'Coalition is Safe'

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia launched the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme in West Java, attended by President Prabowo Subianto and the governors of East Java, Central Java, and West Java. Bahlil lightheartedly remarked that the presence of the three governors, representing a majority of Indonesia's population, signified that the political coalition remained secure. The B50 mandate, which requires a 50 percent biodiesel blend in diesel fuel, is a strategic government initiative aimed at reducing fuel imports and strengthening national energy sovereignty.

Buleleng DPRD Plenary Delayed by Two Hours Amid Low Attendance

A plenary session of the Buleleng Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) was delayed by two hours on Thursday, with 13 of the 45 members absent. The council's speaker attributed the absences to official leave, illness, and a traditional Balinese cremation ceremony, while insisting the delay was due to internal leadership discussions and not political friction. The meeting proceeded after achieving a quorum with 32 members present.

US Strikes in Five Iranian Provinces Kill 14, Wound 78

The United States launched attacks across five Iranian provinces over two days, resulting in 14 deaths and 78 injuries, according to Iran's health ministry. The strikes targeted military infrastructure and mark a sharp escalation following the collapse of a fragile ceasefire. Iran retaliated with drone and missile attacks on US military facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait.

Peatland Fire Engulfs One Hectare in Pekanbaru's Air Hitam

A wildfire has consumed approximately one hectare of peatland in the Air Hitam subdistrict of Pekanbaru, Riau, over the past two days. Firefighting teams are struggling to extinguish both surface and sub-surface fires, with the operation complicated by the peatland terrain. Authorities have deployed a joint task force and continue efforts to fully extinguish the blaze.

Minister Bahlil: B50 to save state foreign exchange up to Rp170 trillion

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia announced that the mandatory B50 biodiesel programme will save approximately Rp170 trillion in foreign exchange by eliminating Indonesia's need to import diesel. The policy, launched by President Prabowo Subianto, marks the first time the country will cease diesel imports. The programme is also expected to increase crude palm oil added value, absorb 2.1 million workers, and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Ciangir Prison Inmates in Banten Farm Livestock, Supply Eggs to Jakarta Hotels

Inmates at the Ciangir Open Prison in Tangerang, Banten, are being trained in livestock farming and agriculture as part of a rehabilitation programme. The prison's operations have become commercially viable, with daily egg production reaching 860 kilograms and supplying hotels in Jakarta. Officials state that only rigorously assessed inmates nearing release are selected for the programme, which also provides them with wages.

Three Villages in Bogor's Babakan Madang Hit by Drought, 2,319 Residents Affected

A prolonged dry spell has caused water shortages in three villages within Bogor Regency's Babakan Madang district, impacting 2,319 residents. The local disaster mitigation agency (BPBD) has responded by distributing 20,000 litres of clean water to the affected communities.

Husein Sastranegara Airport Targets August-September 2026 Reopening with 11 Routes

Bandung's Husein Sastranegara Airport is slated to resume operations between August and September 2026, with plans to serve eight domestic and three international routes. The city government is accelerating infrastructure improvements and exploring shuttle services to support the revival, while acknowledging that higher ticket prices may accompany the reopening.

DPR Assures Public Participation in Drafting of National Education System Bill

The House of Representatives (DPR) has affirmed that the revision of the National Education System Law (RUU Sisdiknas) will involve meaningful public participation. The bill, which has been in development since January 2025, has now been forwarded to the Legislation Body (Baleg) for harmonisation. Lawmakers stress that public input remains open throughout the subsequent stages of deliberation.

Ombudsman proposes improving regional public service quality through National Public Service Day

The Indonesian Ombudsman has proposed using the upcoming National Public Service Day (HPPN) to boost the quality of public services in regions with a mix of urban and rural characteristics. The initiative aims to demonstrate the state's presence across all areas and encourage local governments to deliver maximum service. The Ministry of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform emphasised that the day should strengthen a culture of service and be evaluated annually.

TII: Political party reform needed to prevent regional head corruption

The Indonesian Institute (TII) argues that raising regional heads' salaries is not enough to combat corruption, calling instead for fundamental political party reform. The think tank highlights that the root causes lie in expensive political campaigns, weak party governance, and flawed recruitment systems. TII recommends merit-based, transparent recruitment and stricter campaign finance regulations to break the cycle of political corruption.

Rupiah Under Pressure as US Dollar Breaches Rp18,070

The Indonesian rupiah has slumped to its weakest level in a month, closing at Rp18,070 against the US dollar amid global safe-haven demand driven by geopolitical tensions. The depreciation is creating a 'wait and see' approach among foreign investors, who are delaying long-term industrial investments due to currency volatility. Analysts warn that the unstable exchange rate undermines return on investment calculations, potentially stalling capital inflows into the manufacturing sector.

President attends launch of mandatory B50 programme in Karawang

President Prabowo Subianto has launched the Mandatory B50 biodiesel programme in West Java, marking a significant step in Indonesia's push for energy self-sufficiency. The initiative aims to cut fuel imports, boost the value of domestic crude palm oil, and is projected to absorb 2.1 million workers while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. A transition period until September 2026 has been granted for businesses to exhaust existing B40 stocks.

Glass Panel at National Nutrition Agency Office Shattered, Police Forensic Team Deployed

The front glass panel of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) office in Jakarta was found shattered. Police forensic units, including an Inafis mobile laboratory, have been deployed to the scene to conduct a crime scene investigation.

Constitutional Court to Rule on Judicial Review of State Budget Law Regarding Free Nutritious Meals Funding in July

The Constitutional Court is set to deliver its verdict in July on a judicial review challenging the allocation of education budget funds for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The Coalition for Saving Indonesian Education (KOSPI) argues that the programme's financing should not come from the education budget, regardless of the amount. Lawmakers and the government are currently drafting the 2027 State Budget, with the plaintiffs urging a delay in MBG budget allocations until the court's ruling is issued.

B50 Biodiesel Officially Launched, Indonesia Saves Rp 170 Trillion in Foreign Exchange

Indonesia has officially launched B50 biodiesel, a fuel blend containing 50 per cent palm oil, marking a significant escalation from the previous B40 mandate. The government estimates the move will save Rp 170 trillion in foreign exchange by eliminating the need for diesel imports. The policy is also projected to increase employment to 2.1 million workers and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 44.46 million tonnes.

Daop 6 Reports 218,000 Passengers Utilised School Holiday Fare Subsidy

PT KAI's Operational Area 6 in Yogyakarta recorded over 218,000 passengers taking advantage of a government-subsidised 30 percent fare reduction during the school holiday period. The high uptake demonstrates the effectiveness of transport stimulus measures in encouraging the use of mass transit. The peak travel day saw 17,664 passengers, with the operator highlighting its commitment to sustainable practices and safety.

House Leadership Urges Government to Rationalise Proposed 2027 Hajj Cost Increase

Indonesian House of Representatives leaders have pushed back against a proposed increase in 2027 Hajj pilgrimage costs, calling for a rationalisation of the fee components. House Deputy Speaker Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal stated the proposal is still under discussion and the legislature will demand some cost components be reduced. Meanwhile, Budget Committee Chair Said Abdullah warned that using state budget subsidies for pilgrims deemed financially capable could create issues under Islamic law, urging the Hajj Financial Management Agency to optimise returns on pilgrim funds instead.

Former IPB Professor Seeks Legal Certainty from Bareskrim in Land Dispute Case

Former IPB professor Ing Mokoginta has approached the Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) seeking justice in a land dispute that has been ongoing since 2017. Accompanied by PDIP legal advocates, he is demanding clarity on the case and plans to report parties who continue to occupy his land despite a legally binding State Administrative Court ruling that revoked their land certificates. The professor expressed frustration over the nine-year wait for a resolution, stating all evidence and court decisions are in his favour.

Semaglutide Poisoning Cases Surge, Thousands Affected After Weight-Loss Approval

Reports of semaglutide poisoning in the United States have surged dramatically since the FDA approved the drug for weight management in 2021, with poison control centres logging 8,000 calls in 2023. Researchers from the University of Texas found that the spike is largely driven by dosing errors, such as patients injecting the medication daily instead of weekly. The study underscores the urgent need for better patient education on the correct use of these GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Ulama and Academics Urged to Revive Kitab Writing Tradition to Bridge Generations of Knowledge

Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Vice Chairman Zulfa Mustofa has called on Islamic scholars and academics to revive the tradition of writing kitab (Islamic scholarly texts) to ensure the continuity of knowledge. He emphasised that the intellectual heritage of past ulama, preserved through their writings, remains vital for addressing contemporary challenges. Mustofa argued that pesantren (Islamic boarding schools) must not only study classical texts but also produce new scholarly works relevant to modern society.

Iran Responds to Trump's 'Trash' Insult: We Will Retaliate with Action

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed insults from US President Donald Trump, who called Iran's leadership 'trash' and 'insane'. Araghchi stated that Iran would not respond with words but with actions, as tensions escalate following the collapse of a ceasefire and renewed military strikes in the Strait of Hormuz.

BRIN Researcher Highlights Technology Approach to Prevent Landfill Fires

A researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has stressed that there is no universal technology for waste management, advocating for a tailored approach based on local conditions to mitigate landfill fire risks. Wahyu Purwanta emphasised that successful implementation depends on matching technology to waste characteristics, operational quality, and long-term financing. He also called for improved monitoring systems and a policy shift towards reducing the volume of mixed waste sent to final disposal sites.

Aceh Customs Foils Smuggling of 2,989 Grams of Gold to Malaysia

Customs officials in Aceh have thwarted an attempt to smuggle nearly three kilogrammes of gold bars worth over Rp 7.2 billion to Malaysia via Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport. The foreign national suspect was detained after failing to declare the goods, in a joint operation involving the military, police, and immigration. Authorities emphasised the seizure underscores their commitment to protecting state revenue and economic stability.

Sarolangun Police Arrest Drug Dealer Armed with Homemade Firearm

Police in Sarolangun, Jambi, have apprehended a 28-year-old drug dealer found in possession of a homemade handgun and live ammunition. The suspect, identified as HS, was caught during a methamphetamine transaction in Lubuk Napal village following a tip-off from the public. Authorities are now investigating the origins of the firearm and the broader drug supply network.

Anak Krakatau Erupts, Officials Assure Anyer-Carita Beaches Remain Safe

Tourist beaches in Anyer and Carita remain open and busy despite the recent eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, with local managers confirming the area is safe. The Banten Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) stated that the primary concern is the potential for a tsunami, not the volcanic ash, and that an evacuation order would only be issued if the alert status is raised to Level IV.

Consumer Rights in Digital Transactions: Have Sharia Principles Been Applied?

The rapid growth of digital commerce in Indonesia has raised concerns about whether consumer protections align with Sharia economic law. Issues such as misleading product descriptions, delivery failures, and difficult dispute resolution highlight a gap between technological convenience and ethical business practices. The article argues that principles of honesty, transparency, and the right to rescind a sale (khiyar) must be upheld to ensure justice and mutual consent in online transactions.

The Root of Suluk and the Moral Compass of Culture

Amidst rapid social change, the quiet, unseen work of community care and cultural transmission is often overlooked in favour of elite discourse. This editorial argues that the true resilience of society lies not in the prominence of its institutions, but in the depth of their moral roots and the everyday practice of values. The greatest challenge is ensuring that institutional influence remains guided by its founding spirit, rather than being eroded by political and personal interests.

Russia Imposes Total Ban on Diesel Exports Amid Ukrainian Attacks

Russia has announced a full ban on diesel exports to shore up domestic supplies following Ukrainian drone strikes on its oil refineries. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated the country will also begin importing petroleum products in July, a rare move for a major energy exporter. The Kremlin acknowledged fuel shortages but insisted the situation remains under control.

Last Day Today! Customs Opens Job Vacancies for High School Graduates

The Juanda Customs and Excise Office is concluding its recruitment drive today for security and cleaning staff. The vacancies, open to male Indonesian citizens with a minimum high school education, are part of a structured selection process. Successful candidates will begin training later this month before signing employment contracts in August.

Penglipuran Festival 2026 Commences, Showcasing 'Harmony of the Earth' Theme

The 13th Penglipuran Village Festival has officially begun in Bali, running for three days with the theme 'Harmoni Bumi' (Harmony of the Earth). The event features traditional cultural performances, local art, and MSME products, with organisers targeting up to 5,000 visitors daily. This year's festival has been relocated to the Tugu Pahlawan field, a site of historical significance where a local war hero, Captain Anak Agung Gede Anom Mudita, was killed.

Governor: Student Selection for East Java's 'Sekolah Rakyat' Not Yet Finalised

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has stated that the selection process for students of the 'Sekolah Rakyat' (People's Schools) for the 2026/2027 academic year is still ongoing. The provincial government, alongside PKH personnel and district social services, is intensifying outreach to ensure families understand the boarding school concept. The Ministry of Social Affairs has initiated open house events to build public trust and help meet the student quota before the orientation period begins in July 2026.

B50 Officially Launched, Bahlil Says Indonesia Will No Longer Import Diesel

Indonesia has officially launched its mandatory B50 biodiesel programme, blending 50% palm oil-based fuel with diesel. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia stated this move will eliminate the need for diesel imports for the first time, saving billions in foreign exchange. The policy is expected to boost the palm oil industry, create millions of jobs, and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Koperasi Merah Putih: Strategic Partner or New Competitor for Small Businesses?

The Indonesian government's Koperasi Merah Putih programme aims to strengthen village economies by acting as a hub for distribution, financing, and marketing. While it promises to improve bargaining power for farmers and micro-enterprises, concerns have emerged regarding potential overlap with existing cooperatives and village-owned enterprises. Small retailers and local distributors are also questioning whether the initiative will serve as a supportive partner or become a state-backed competitor.

UM Bandung's Biotechnology Programme Equips Students with Practice, Research, and Innovation

The Biotechnology programme at Universitas Muhammadiyah Bandung emphasises a balance of theory and hands-on laboratory practice to prepare students for real-world problem-solving. The curriculum fosters discipline, research involvement, and innovation, supported by lecturers who encourage participation in student creativity programmes and scientific competitions. Graduates are equipped for diverse careers in pharmaceuticals, food technology, health, and environmental sectors, with the programme holding an 'Unggul' (Excellent) accreditation.

Panglipuran Festival Focuses on Promoting Regenerative Tourism

The 13th Panglipuran Festival in 2026 is championing regenerative tourism, placing the preservation of tradition, culture, and the environment at the core of destination development. The event aims to reinforce the village's status as a model for community-based tourism, a concept it has practised since 2012. Panglipuran has received international recognition for its approach, including being named one of the world's best tourism villages by UN Tourism in 2023.

Banks Adjust Dollar Rates as Rupiah Weakens Past 18,000; HSBC Sells at 18,385

Indonesian banks have adjusted their US dollar exchange rates following the rupiah's depreciation past the 18,000 per dollar threshold. While most banks offer selling rates around 18,100, HSBC Indonesia's banknote selling rate has reached 18,385 rupiah per dollar. The widening spread between buying and selling rates across various banks highlights the volatility in the foreign exchange market.

Bank Mandiri Secures Multiple Honours at FinanceAsia Awards 2026

Bank Mandiri has received several accolades at the FinanceAsia Awards 2026, including Best Sustainable Bank, underscoring its commitment to ESG principles and digital financial inclusion. The awards recognise the state-owned bank's strong business performance, digital innovation, and efforts to expand access to financial services. The lender highlighted that these achievements reflect its strategy to deliver sustainable growth while supporting Indonesia's transition to a low-carbon economy.

House Commission III Flags Potential Power Abuse in Asset Forfeiture Bill, Calls for Meticulous Drafting

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has raised concerns about potential abuse of power in the drafting of the Asset Forfeiture Bill. While supporting the anti-corruption objectives, lawmakers insist the legislation must not be rushed to prevent loopholes that could lead to misuse of authority. The commission is gathering extensive public input to ensure the bill is comprehensive and protects citizens' rights.

House Commission X Ensures National Education System Bill Involves Meaningful Public Participation

The House of Representatives' Commission X has affirmed that the drafting of the National Education System Bill (RUU Sisdiknas) has been a participatory process involving diverse stakeholders since January 2025. The bill, which has now entered the harmonisation stage at the Legislation Body, aims to integrate various education regulations into a single comprehensive framework. Key provisions include extending compulsory education to 13 years and mandating a minimum 20 per cent allocation of the state budget for education.

KAI Permanently Closes Illegal Railway Crossing in Bogor to Prevent Accidents

State railway operator KAI Daop 1 Jakarta has permanently closed an illegal level crossing in Sukaresmi, Bogor, as part of ongoing safety measures. The closure, executed by installing concrete barriers, aims to protect both motorists and train passengers from the high risk of accidents at unauthorised crossing points. This action brings the total number of illegal crossings closed in the Bogor area to 28 out of a targeted 31 locations.

Home Affairs Minister Calls for Strengthened One Data Indonesia System to Prevent Hacking

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has urged the strengthening of the One Data Indonesia system's security infrastructure to prevent cyber attacks. Speaking during a House of Representatives meeting on the One Data Indonesia Bill, he stressed that data managers must protect citizens' data to avoid legal consequences under the Personal Data Protection Law. The bill aims to create an integrated, accurate, and valid data governance framework for national development planning.

Megawati receives Timor-Leste's highest honour

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri has been awarded the Grande Colar da Ordem de Timor-Leste, the nation's highest honour, for her pivotal role in strengthening bilateral ties. President José Ramos-Horta praised her statesmanship during Indonesia's democratic transition and her acceptance of Timor-Leste's independence. Megawati described the award as a symbol of the enduring friendship between the two nations, to be preserved for future generations.

Supported by Spare Parts and Accessories, BI Confident June 2026 Retail Sales Remain Stable

Bank Indonesia projects that retail sales performance in June 2026 will remain steady, with the Real Sales Index forecast at 221.6, despite an annual contraction. Growth in spare parts and household equipment groups is expected to offset declines in cultural goods and vehicle fuel. On a monthly basis, the sales decline is predicted to ease, partly due to the start of the school holiday period.

Bogor Customs Seizes 6 Million Illegal Cigarettes Worth IDR 9 Billion During May-June

The Bogor Customs and Excise Office confiscated over six million illegal cigarettes valued at IDR 9 billion during operations in May and June 2026. The seizures, conducted across Bogor, Depok, Cianjur, and Sukabumi, prevented an estimated IDR 4.5 billion in potential state revenue losses. The illicit goods were discovered in various locations including small shops, agents, and expedition companies.

OJK Pursues Remaining Assets After Henry Surya Embezzles Hundreds of Billions in Insurance Funds

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is working with law enforcement to recover remaining assets from Henry Surya, a suspect in a major insurance fraud case involving PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife Indonesia. Surya allegedly embezzled hundreds of billions of rupiah in policyholder funds, with approximately Rp 300 billion used for personal gain. Authorities have so far seized assets worth Rp 113.9 billion and are continuing their pursuit of the outstanding amount.

OJK Pursues Remaining Assets of Henry Surya After Embezzling Hundreds of Billions in Insurance Funds

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is working with law enforcement to recover the remaining assets of Henry Surya, a suspect in the embezzlement of policyholder funds from PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife. Despite a written order to compensate for failed claims totalling Rp 566.24 billion, Surya has not complied, and authorities have so far seized Rp 113.97 billion in assets. The suspect faces up to 12 years in prison and fines potentially reaching Rp 1 trillion for violating financial sector laws.

Three Workers Die in East Jakarta Culvert During Water Well Cleaning

Three workers were found dead inside a culvert in Cipayung, East Jakarta, on Thursday while attempting to clean a water well. The victims were discovered by their colleagues and have been transported to the Police Hospital for further identification. The cause of death remains unconfirmed.

Brian Yuliarto Quips: 'Don't Aspire to Be a Minister'

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto has candidly admitted the relentless pressure of his role, joking that young people should not aspire to become ministers. He contrasted the daily crises of government with the more enjoyable life of a researcher. Yuliarto shared these reflections while advising Garuda Scholarship recipients, urging them to build perseverance and grit for their studies abroad.

Qalibaf: Strait of Hormuz Only Open Under Iran's Rules

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf has asserted that the Strait of Hormuz will only be opened according to Iran's regulations, dismissing US threats. The statement follows a new wave of American strikes, which US Central Command says aim to protect freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway.

Police Uncover Billions in Coal Corruption Proceeds Hidden in Cipete Cafe and Bogor Safe

Indonesian police have seized cash and gold worth an estimated Rp 60 billion from a cafe in Cipete, South Jakarta, linked to a major coal corruption investigation. A subsequent search of a residence in Sentul, Bogor, uncovered a further Rp 476 billion in a hidden safe, including 74 kilograms of gold bullion and foreign currency. The Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas Tipikor) confirmed the assets are connected to graft cases involving state electricity company PLN, insurer ASABRI, and steelmaker Krakatau Steel.

Prabowo Launches B50 Biodiesel at Km 57 Rest Area in Karawang

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated the B50 biodiesel programme at a rest area in Karawang, West Java, marking a significant step in the nation's energy diversification strategy. The mandatory 50% biodiesel blend aims to reduce Indonesia's reliance on fossil fuel imports and strengthen national energy sovereignty. The launch was attended by key cabinet ministers and regional governors.

House Deputy Speaker Appreciates Police and AGO's Steps Regarding Searches

Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal, has expressed appreciation for the law enforcement measures taken by the National Police and the Attorney General's Office in handling alleged corruption cases. His remarks follow a series of searches by a joint team investigating graft related to coal procurement, PT Asabri, and PT Krakatau Steel. The searches across 12 locations resulted in the seizure of cash, foreign currency, gold bars, and documents.

Modernising Tax Administration in the E-Marketplace Era

Starting 1 July 2026, Indonesia will appoint four major e-marketplaces as withholding agents for income tax on qualifying merchant transactions. The 0.5 percent levy is not a new tax but a modernisation of administration aimed at ensuring fiscal fairness between conventional and digital businesses. This policy reflects the government's effort to adapt its tax system to the rapid growth of Southeast Asia's largest digital economy.

US Strikes Iran for Second Consecutive Day Amid Hormuz Closure Threats

The United States military has launched strikes against Iran for a second consecutive day, targeting capabilities that Washington claims threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The escalation follows a warning from President Donald Trump at a NATO summit and comes as Iran reportedly threatens to close the strategic waterway. The exchange marks a significant new phase in tensions between the two nations.

Prambanan as India-Indonesia tourism bridge: Minister

Indonesia's Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has highlighted Prambanan Temple's role as a cultural and spiritual bridge to strengthen tourism ties with India. She noted the temple symbolises centuries of shared civilisation, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit seen as a milestone for deepening people-to-people connections. The government aims to leverage this heritage to boost both visitor numbers and the quality of travel experiences between the two nations.

Govt consider to raise lecturers' salary

The Indonesian government is reviewing measures to improve lecturers' welfare, including the potential for salary increases, according to Higher Education Minister Brian Yuliarto. The move follows proposals from academic associations for a standard monthly income of Rp20-50 million and a union request for the Constitutional Court to align lecturers' basic salaries with regional minimum wages. The government has already resumed performance bonus payments as part of its ongoing evaluation of academic welfare.

Figures Spotted Accompanying Buzz-Cut Men at Jakarta Police Headquarters

Several individuals were seen alongside a group of men with buzz cuts who visited the Metro Jaya Police headquarters amid a high-profile corruption probe. The visit follows a major raid by the Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortas) on a café, a money changer, and a luxury home, where 74 kg of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah were seized. The military has denied any official involvement, stating that the men were not deployed personnel.

New Toll Road Minimum Service Standards Regulation in the Pipeline, Here's a Preview

The Ministry of Public Works is targeting October 2026 for the enactment of a new ministerial regulation on Toll Road Minimum Service Standards. The regulation, which includes administrative fines, is currently awaiting approval from the Ministry of Finance regarding the non-tax state revenue scheme. Lawmakers have urged the government to expedite the regulation to strengthen oversight of toll road services.

OJK Reveals Henry Surya's Scheme to Embezzle Prolife Policyholder Funds

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has detailed how Henry Surya allegedly embezzled hundreds of billions of rupiah from policyholders of PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife. The scheme involved directing improper investments and converting medium-term notes into shares between 2016 and 2019. Surya faces up to 12 years in prison and fines potentially reaching Rp 1 trillion for violating financial sector laws and ignoring OJK directives.

Three Workers Die in Cipayung Culvert Accident, East Jakarta

Three workers died after entering a culvert in Bambu Apus, Cipayung, East Jakarta, in what is suspected to be a workplace accident. The victims lost consciousness one after another while attempting to rescue each other inside the confined space. Authorities suspect oxygen deprivation or exposure to hazardous gas as the cause of death.

Ombudsman to oversee TPKS Law implementation to ensure justice for sexual violence victims

The Indonesian Ombudsman has pledged to rigorously monitor the implementation of the Sexual Violence Crime Law (UU TPKS) after identifying five key obstacles, including victim fear and slow law enforcement response. A cross-sector forum highlighted the need for stronger coordination and a unified system to provide accessible, high-quality services for victims. Officials from the Judicial Commission, the Presidential Staff Office, and the Attorney General's Office all emphasised the necessity of inter-agency synergy to ensure the law's effective enforcement and comprehensive victim protection.

Indonesia Updates Business Rules to Bolster Tourism Investment

Indonesia has introduced an updated business classification system, KBLI 2025, to enhance investment certainty and streamline licensing for the tourism sector. Vice Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa stated the reform strengthens legal certainty and accommodates new digital business models, supporting the government's 8 percent economic growth target by 2029. The new classification, aligned with international standards, has been integrated into the Online Single Submission platform to simplify business registration.

Airlangga: Continued IPO Activity a Positive Indicator of Investment Climate

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has stated that the ongoing initial public offering (IPO) activity on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) signals a positive investment climate. He highlighted that the latest IPO, the second in Indonesia for 2026, reflects business optimism despite volatile market dynamics. The government is continuing capital market reforms to deepen long-term financing sources and sustain economic momentum.

Study: Children's Suffering from Parents' Frequent Phone Use Can Last into Adulthood

New research indicates that parents who are frequently distracted by their smartphones risk causing long-term emotional damage to their children. The study, involving 600 adolescents, found that perceived parental 'phubbing' can lead to anxiety, fear of abandonment, and insecure attachment styles that persist into adulthood. Psychologists recommend establishing gadget-free zones and prioritising quality, undivided attention to mitigate these effects.

Prambanan Temple Becomes New Diplomatic 'Weapon' to Attract Indian Tourists

Indonesia is leveraging the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Prambanan Temple to boost cultural diplomacy and attract a surge of Indian tourists. The government plans to use the temple's spiritual and historical significance, alongside promotional incentives, to establish Yogyakarta and Central Java as premier global tourism destinations.

China Targets Accelerated Innovative Development of Retail Industry

The Chinese government has issued new guidelines aimed at accelerating the innovative development of its retail industry. The plan outlines a modern retail system and seeks to cultivate globally competitive retail enterprises by 2030. Key tasks include planning the industrial layout and stimulating new consumer demand.

Iran Accuses Europe of Lacking Neutrality in US-Israel Conflict

Iran has accused European nations of abandoning neutrality following NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte's endorsement of US and Israeli military operations against Tehran. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson claimed Rutte's statements confirm Europe's complicity in what it describes as an illegal war of aggression. The accusations follow reported US strikes on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliatory attacks on American bases in the region.

South Korea's Supreme Court Upholds Seven-Year Sentence for Ex-President Yoon

South Korea's Supreme Court has upheld a seven-year prison sentence for former President Yoon Suk Yeol, solidifying his legal downfall. The charges relate to obstructing cabinet procedures and using a forged prime ministerial signature during his brief martial law declaration. This final ruling adds to the political chaos surrounding Yoon, who is already serving a life sentence in a separate insurrection case.

Tidore City Government Needs Rp 114 Billion to Pay PPPK Salaries

The Tidore Islands city government is struggling to pay the salaries of Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK) and non-civil servants for the 2026 fiscal year due to a regional budget deficit. The city requires approximately Rp 114 billion from central government transfer funds to cover these wage bills, as local revenue is insufficient. Thousands of PPPK workers have protested against a potential policy to furlough them, warning it would disrupt public services.

Babel Provincial Government Leverages Durian Contest to Promote Tourism Village

The Bangka Belitung Islands Provincial Government is using a durian contest to promote Pelangas Tourism Village in West Bangka Regency. The initiative aims to boost tourism by highlighting the region's diverse local durian varieties and traditional 'nganggung' feasts. Officials hope to replicate Malaysia's success in attracting tourists through its renowned Musang King durian.

House Commission III Warns Against Potential Abuse of Power in Asset Forfeiture Bill

The House of Representatives' Commission III has acknowledged public concerns regarding potential abuse of power in the newly proposed Asset Forfeiture Bill. Chairman Habiburokhman stressed that the legislation must be carefully drafted to prevent it from becoming a political tool or a means for law enforcement misconduct. The commission is actively gathering input from various stakeholders, including advocates and academics, to ensure the bill's integrity.

Iran Condemns Repeated US Acts of Aggression

Iran has formally condemned the United States at the United Nations for what it describes as repeated acts of aggression and violations of international law. In a letter to the UN Secretary-General, Tehran accused Washington of launching a large-scale military attack on installations in southern Iran. The Iranian envoy warned that such actions pose a serious threat to international peace and security.

TNI Denies Deploying Troops to Metro Jaya Police Headquarters

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has refuted claims circulating on social media that it deployed soldiers to the Metro Jaya Police Headquarters. The video, which allegedly showed the incident occurring early Thursday morning, has not been officially explained by either the military or the police. The denial comes amid heightened public attention to civil-military relations.

Don't Underestimate! IMF Reveals 4 Major Threats to the World and Indonesia

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has identified four significant risks to the global and Indonesian economies in its latest World Economic Outlook update. These threats include persistently high energy and food prices, prolonged high interest rates, poorly targeted fiscal support, and geopolitical instability. While Indonesia's growth projection remains stable at 5.0% for 2026, the IMF warns that these external pressures could strain the state budget and impact domestic inflation.

Marine Le Pen Leads in 2027 French Presidential Election Survey

Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally party, has taken a commanding lead in an early poll for the 2027 presidential election, securing up to 36 per cent of first-round voting intentions. The survey suggests she would maintain her advantage over rivals in a second-round run-off. Her candidacy prospects have been bolstered by a Paris appeals court decision reducing a ban on her running for public office.

KOSPI Submits Conclusion in MBG Budget Lawsuit to Constitutional Court

The Coalition to Save Indonesian Education (KOSPI) has submitted its final conclusions to the Constitutional Court in a judicial review case challenging the allocation of education budget funds for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. The petitioners argue that the Rp 223 trillion allocation for MBG within the 2026 state budget violates the constitution by diverting funds from essential educational needs, such as teacher welfare and school infrastructure. They contend the programme does not meet the national education standards mandated by law and has exacerbated issues like low PISA scores and functional illiteracy.

Three Workers Die in East Jakarta Culvert, Two Initially Attempted Rescue

Three workers have died after entering a culvert during a cleaning operation in Cipayung, East Jakarta. The incident began when one worker lost consciousness, prompting two colleagues to attempt a rescue, only to succumb themselves. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fatalities.

Police General Probes Sentul House Linked to Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah

The Indonesian National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps is investigating the circulation of a photo allegedly showing the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, at a house in Sentul. The probe follows a raid where investigators seized 74 kilograms of gold bullion, foreign currency, and cash totalling Rp 476 billion. Authorities are working to verify the authenticity of the photo and its connection to the seized assets.

IMF Says AI Is Saving the Global Financial System from the Effects of War

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has stated that artificial intelligence and strong corporate earnings are shielding the global financial system from the worst impacts of the Iran conflict. The IMF's July 2026 World Economic Outlook projects global growth will slow to 3% this year, partly cushioned by a technology cycle driven by AI demand. However, the IMF also warned that the AI boom could fuel inflation through a wealth effect that boosts consumer spending.

KH Zulfa Mustofa Launches 'Ithafu Ummati Al Muqtafa' to Preserve Indonesia's Islamic Scholarly Tradition

KH Zulfa Mustofa, Vice Chairman of PBNU, is launching his new book 'Ithafu Ummati Al Muqtafa' in Jakarta, calling for a revival of the scholarly writing tradition among Indonesian ulama. He argues that producing written works is essential for preserving and transmitting Islamic knowledge across generations, complementing the oral teaching traditions of pesantren. The launch, held ahead of the NU Congress, aims to inspire a new wave of intellectual production within the nation's largest Islamic organisation.

Indonesia Invites Russia to Invest in Downstream Processing

Indonesia is urging Russia to shift their economic relationship from trade to investment partnerships, focusing on downstream mineral processing and manufacturing. The government is offering opportunities in sectors such as battery supply chains, automotive, and energy, aiming to boost industrial competitiveness. This push includes facilitating joint ventures and strengthening financial mechanisms to support bilateral investment.

Indonesia warns 22 platform operators to immediately register

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has issued written warnings to 22 private-sector electronic system operators, including hospitality companies like Accor and Archipelago International, for failing to register with the government. The operators have until July 13, 2026, to comply with the mandatory registration requirement designed to protect users, or face enforcement actions such as access blocking. The move is part of ongoing efforts to ensure orderly and responsible digital governance in the country.

Indonesia Invites Russia to Invest in Downstream Industries

Indonesia is seeking to transform its economic relationship with Russia from trade to joint investment in downstream mineral processing, manufacturing, and energy. The government is offering partnership opportunities in building smelters and electric vehicle battery supply chains, leveraging Indonesia's vast nickel reserves. This strategy aims to integrate Indonesia into global production chains and support its ambition to become a top-five world economy by 2045.

Greater Bandung LRT Assessed as Capable of Reducing Congestion and Shifting Travel Patterns

A doctoral study suggests the proposed Light Rail Transit (LRT) in Greater Bandung could significantly alter commuting habits and alleviate chronic traffic congestion. The research highlights that minimal waiting times and seamless integration with feeder systems are the most critical factors for encouraging residents to switch from private vehicles. The findings recommend integrated ticketing and government subsidies to ensure the mass transit system's success.

Kelingking Glass Lift Trial: Part of Construction Found in Marine Space

A court hearing in Denpasar has revealed that a portion of the controversial glass lift project at Kelingking Beach, Nusa Penida, was built on marine space without the required permits. Two Bali provincial government witnesses testified that the developer, PT Indonesia Kaishi Tourism Property Investment Development Group, was advised to obtain a marine space utilisation permit after surveys found the foundation extended into coastal waters. The case continues as the developer challenges the provincial government's decision to halt construction over alleged licensing violations.

Exciting Activities from Kampung Dolanan to Roro Jonggrang at Prambanan Temple

InJourney Destination Management (IDM) is leveraging the school holiday period to offer a range of educational and cultural activities at Prambanan Temple in Sleman. The 'Meaningful and Comfortable Holiday' programme aims to transform the historic site into an interactive cultural learning space for families. Highlights include the Prambanan Jazz Festival 2026, a contemporary art installation, and wellness activities set against the temple backdrop.

Police Investigate Family Photos Seized Alongside 74 kg of Gold and Nearly Half a Trillion Rupiah in Sentul Raid

Indonesian police are examining family photographs discovered during a raid on a house in Sentul, Bogor, where they also seized 74 kilograms of gold bars and cash worth an estimated Rp476 billion. The search is part of a joint investigation by the Corruption Eradication Corps and Metro Jaya Police into multiple corruption cases, including those related to coal and PT Asabri. Authorities have yet to disclose the identity of the homeowner or the significance of the photographs as they continue to probe the connection between the seized assets and the ongoing cases.

Police Still Investigating Owner of Sentul Luxury Home Raided in Corruption Probe

Indonesian police are continuing to investigate the ownership of a luxury home in Sentul, Bogor, raided in connection with a major corruption and money laundering case. The raid uncovered 74 kilograms of gold bullion, foreign currency, and cash, with the total value of seized assets reaching approximately Rp 476 billion. The investigation is linked to a PLN blackout case involving coal governance, the Asabri scandal, and a corporate debt settlement.

Denny Sumargo Urges Public to Monitor Case of Alleged Santri Burning in Lombok

Celebrity podcaster Denny Sumargo has called for public oversight of a case involving three Islamic boarding school students allegedly set on fire by a senior in Central Lombok, resulting in one death and two permanent disabilities. The incident reportedly occurred in December 2025, but the victims' families claim the case has stalled for months without resolution. Sumargo alleges the families faced intimidation and were prevented from travelling to Jakarta to share their story on his podcast.

Kemdiktisaintek Holds Orientation for 42 Garuda Transformation High Schools and 390 Garuda Scholarship Recipients

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) has conducted an orientation for 42 Garuda Transformation High Schools and 390 recipients of the 2026 Garuda Scholarship. The programme, part of President Prabowo Subianto's initiative, aims to enhance Indonesia's human resources through targeted secondary school interventions and funding for top global university degrees. Officials emphasised the scholars' responsibility to contribute to national progress and the government's commitment to building a superior education ecosystem.

Legal Group Petisi Ahli Backs Police Probe into Coal Corruption, Demands Thorough Investigation

The Indonesian Legal Practitioners and Experts Association (Petisi Ahli) has voiced strong support for the National Police's Corruption Eradication Corps investigation into alleged corruption in coal supply that triggered mass blackouts in Sumatra. The group urged investigators to examine all parties without exception, including senior law enforcement officials if evidence warrants. They described the case as a crucial test of the objectivity and independence of Indonesia's anti-corruption efforts.

Megawati Receives Highest Honour from President of Timor-Leste

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri was awarded the Grande Colar da Ordem de Timor-Leste, the nation's highest honour, by President José Ramos-Horta in Dili. The award recognises her significant contribution to strengthening bilateral relations and her role in supporting Timor-Leste's post-independence normalisation. The ceremony was marked by warm exchanges, including a light-hearted duet between Megawati and Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão.

TASPEN accelerates claim services through digital transformation

Indonesian state-owned pension fund PT TASPEN has achieved a 99.97 per cent rate of settling claims within one working day after document completion, driven by its digital transformation strategy. The company reported that 81 per cent of claims were submitted via digital channels between January and May 2026, supported by innovations like the TASPEN One Hour Online Services (TOOS) and the Andal by Taspen authentication app. The progress, which has boosted customer satisfaction to a 'Very Satisfied' index of 98.7, was presented to the House of Representatives' Commission VI.

Three Workers Die After Entering Culvert in Cipayung, East Jakarta

Three construction workers lost their lives in a workplace accident after entering a culvert in Bambu Apus, Cipayung, East Jakarta. The victims are believed to have succumbed to a lack of oxygen or poisoning from hazardous gas, with each man collapsing while attempting to rescue his colleague. Authorities successfully evacuated the bodies and are investigating the cause of the incident.

Hundreds of BYD Ti7 Owners Report Leaking Panoramic Roofs

Approximately 300 owners of the BYD Ti7 electric SUV in China have filed complaints regarding leaking panoramic glass roofs and water ingress into the charging port. The issue, which appears confined to the fully electric variant, has prompted a 99.2% response rate from BYD, though some customers claim they were offered repairs only on condition of deleting their complaints.

South Jakarta Administration Warns Companies Against Vigilante Action on Workers

The South Jakarta city government has cautioned companies against taking the law into their own hands when dealing with employees suspected of criminal offences. The warning follows a case involving a sports facility company where an employee was allegedly assaulted and falsely imprisoned by colleagues over a suspected theft. Authorities have confirmed that labour and criminal investigations are ongoing.

Airlangga: Continued IPOs a Positive Indicator of Investment Climate

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that ongoing initial public offerings (IPOs) on the Indonesia Stock Exchange signal a positive investment climate. He highlighted the government's efforts to deepen the capital market as a source of long-term financing to strengthen businesses and sustain national economic momentum. The latest IPO is the second in Indonesia in 2026, occurring amid high stock market dynamics and following first-quarter economic growth of 5.61 percent.

OJK Approves Merger of Eight BPRs in Banten

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved the merger of eight rural banks (BPR) in Banten into PT BPR Pusaka Dana. The consolidation, effective 1 July 2026, aims to strengthen capital, expand service networks, and enhance competitiveness in the micro and small business segment. The move aligns with the OJK's 2024-2027 roadmap to build a more resilient and efficient BPR industry.

Brimob Tactical Vehicles Guard Polda Metro Jaya Amid Major Corruption Raids

Security has been heightened at Polda Metro Jaya and National Police headquarters with the deployment of Brimob tactical vehicles and armed personnel. The increased measures follow a series of raids in a major corruption and money laundering investigation linked to coal and the Asabri case. Police seized significant assets, including 74 kg of gold bars and cash totalling an estimated Rp476 billion from a single residence in Sentul.

Police Corruption Eradication Unit Probes Photo of Jampidsus at Sentul House Raid

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Corps (Kortastipidkor) is investigating the circulation of a photo allegedly showing the Junior Attorney General for Special Crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, at a house in Sentul that was recently raided. The raid resulted in the seizure of gold bars, foreign currency, and cash worth approximately Rp476 billion. The investigation is part of a joint probe into alleged corruption in coal governance and financial mismanagement at state insurers PT Asabri and PT Jiwasraya.

Series of IPOs Demonstrates Investor Confidence in IDX: Govt

Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto has highlighted a series of initial public offerings on the Indonesia Stock Exchange as evidence of strong business optimism and investor confidence in the domestic economy. The listing of PT Niramas Utama Tbk marks the second IPO of 2026, supported by economic growth of 5.61 percent in the first quarter and robust performance in the food and beverage sector. The government is continuing capital market reforms in collaboration with the OJK and IDX to enhance transparency and investor protection, with six more issuers expected to list soon.

Indonesia and China Develop World's First mRNA Dengue Vaccine

Indonesia, through a collaboration between the University of Indonesia, Tsinghua University, and PT Etana Biotechnologies, is developing the world's first mRNA vaccine for dengue fever. The initiative aims to bolster national vaccine independence, a strategic priority following pandemic-era supply chain vulnerabilities. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin highlighted the project as a milestone, targeting full domestic production of 16 essential antigens by 2030.

Leaving a Trail of Service: USU Medical Faculty in Tano Niha, Cutting Through Old Perceptions

Medical residents from the University of Sumatera Utara (USU) have completed a three-month placement in the remote Nias Islands, providing specialist care while confronting significant logistical challenges. The programme, based in North Nias and Gunungsitoli, revealed critical gaps in healthcare infrastructure, including limited blood bank services and language barriers with elderly patients. The initiative highlights the urgent need for more specialist doctors and improved medical support systems in Indonesia's isolated archipelagos.

Bulog Chief to Launch 'Beras Kita' Brand, Awaits Government Price Approval

Indonesia's state logistics agency Bulog is preparing to launch a new rice brand called 'Beras Kita' in premium and medium variants, with a production target of 2 million tonnes. The final pricing is pending approval from a coordinating ministerial meeting, though the branding follows the government's pattern of using the 'Kita' suffix for staple goods like Minyakita cooking oil. Bulog plans to process existing medium-grade government rice reserves to achieve the premium quality standard.

Ministry of Religious Affairs to Crack Down on Illegal Pesantren

The Ministry of Religious Affairs will conduct a sweep of illegal Islamic boarding schools following recent cases of sexual violence and deviance. Minister Nasaruddin Umar stated the ministry will tighten the operational definition of religious institutions to distinguish legitimate pesantren from unregistered ones. The initiative will involve the Majelis Masyayikh to establish standardised regulations, with threats of administrative sanctions and closure for violators.

OJK Seizes IDR 113.97 Billion in Assets from Jiwa Prolife Insurance

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has seized assets worth IDR 113.97 billion from PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife, formerly known as PT Asuransi Jiwa Indosurya Sukses. The seizure, comprising cash and property, follows an investigation that found the company had used customer funds for personal gain and failed to comply with a written order to pay IDR 566.24 billion in compensation. The action underscores the regulator's commitment to protecting consumers in the financial sector.

Excessive screen time in toddlers may affect academic performance

A new study by French and Singaporean researchers links excessive screen time in early childhood to reduced academic achievement and working memory later in life. The research highlights that the infant brain is particularly vulnerable during rapid development, though the negative association reappears around age six when formal schooling begins. Experts recommend avoiding routine screen exposure for children under two, with exceptions for supervised video calls or educational activities.

EACON Officially Lists on Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Accelerating Growth in Autonomous Mining Sector

EACON Group Co., Ltd. has officially listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising approximately HK$2.3 billion and achieving a market capitalisation of around HK$13 billion. The IPO attracted strong institutional backing, including Zijin Mining and Fidelity International, marking a significant step in the company's global expansion. The listing will fund further R&D and international growth for its autonomous mining haulage systems.

Minister Amran: Drones can transport grain in areas without farm access roads

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has proposed using drones to transport harvested grain in regions lacking farm access roads, as part of a broader push to modernise Indonesian agriculture. The minister highlighted that drones, already used for planting, could carry up to 100 kilogrammes of grain, making distribution faster and more efficient. He also cautioned that drone operations must prioritise safety, following reports of a farmer in Tuban using a drone for personal transport.

DPR Member Demands Thorough Probe into Coal Corruption Without Intervention

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has urged the police's anti-corruption unit to fully investigate a coal corruption case linked to power outages in Sumatra, insisting there must be no external interference. The lawmaker stressed that the alleged corruption has harmed the public by disrupting their basic right to energy. The call follows police raids in Jakarta that uncovered a large amount of foreign currency and documents related to the case.

With Danantara, BTN Strengthens Business Transformation

State-owned Bank BTN has reported a 54.37 per cent year-on-year surge in consolidated net profit to IDR 1.85 trillion as of May 2026, significantly outpacing the national banking industry average. The bank attributes its robust performance to an ongoing business transformation and strategic synergies within the Danantara Indonesia ecosystem. BTN is accelerating its shift towards a 'beyond mortgage' model, expanding digital services and operational efficiency to support sustainable growth.

Malaysia denies report that Jho Low entered country for 1MDB talks

A senior Malaysian lawmaker has refuted claims that fugitive financier Jho Low secretly entered the country for negotiations related to the 1MDB scandal. Deputy Finance Minister Liew Chin Tong denied the reports while disclosing that the government still faces an estimated RM20.1 billion in outstanding 1MDB debts. Asset recovery efforts continue through criminal and civil proceedings against Low and the financial institutions involved.

Jakarta Administration Reviews Proposal to Add Six Categories of Free Public Transport Beneficiaries

The Jakarta provincial government is in the final stages of reviewing a proposal to expand free public transport access to six additional community groups, Governor Pramono Anung announced. The initiative, recommended by the Jakarta City Transportation Council, aims to assist vulnerable residents and could be decided shortly. The expansion would supplement the existing 15 categories already receiving complimentary travel on services like Transjakarta.

Money Changer in Cipete Quiet After Police Raid Over Three Corruption Cases

A money changer in Cipete, South Jakarta, remained closed on Thursday following a police raid linked to investigations into alleged corruption involving coal at PLN, ASABRI, and debts at Krakatau Steel. Authorities seized Rp 7.2 billion in foreign currency from the premises on Wednesday. The investigation is ongoing as police continue to examine the evidence.

Bank Aladin Syariah Reveals Key to Digital Bank Growth Through 2030

PT Bank Aladin Syariah Tbk has identified artificial intelligence and cross-ecosystem collaboration as the primary drivers of digital banking growth in the coming years. The bank is expanding its offline-to-online strategy and partnerships to broaden access to Sharia-compliant financial services. This approach has already supported a net profit of Rp23.3 billion and a 30.17% annual increase in active customers in the first quarter of 2026.

Bali Bars Foreign Investment in Motorcycle Rental Businesses

Bali's provincial government has prohibited new foreign investment in motorcycle rental businesses to safeguard local small and medium-sized enterprises from increasing competition. Authorities discovered over 500 foreign-owned operators, many of which were unlicensed, prompting a crackdown that also extends to car rentals and fitness centres. Despite these restrictions, Bali recorded strong overall investment figures in the first quarter of 2026.

Suspects Prepared WhatsApp Group and Cable Ties Before Abducting Padel Employee

South Jakarta Police revealed that suspects meticulously planned the abduction and assault of a new padel court employee, creating a dedicated WhatsApp group and preparing cable ties in advance. The victim, suspected of theft, was forcibly taken from his home, bound, and assaulted over two days before escaping with a security guard's help. Police have arrested the suspects and seized evidence including the vehicle and restraints used in the crime.

UMPR Researchers Push for Strengthening Economy Through Digital Transactions

Researchers from Universitas Muhammadiyah Palangkaraya are advocating for a stronger digital economy by formulating policy recommendations focused on the sustained use of digital payments in Indonesia. The initiative, discussed in a focus group with regulators and industry players, shifts the focus from mere adoption to building consistent user habits. Key proposals include making user retention a success metric and enhancing collaboration on digital literacy and consumer protection.

Japan's ispace Books Cargo Space on SpaceX Starship for Lunar Rideshare Mission

Japanese lunar transportation company ispace has secured a $50 million deal to send 500 kilograms of payload to the Moon on a SpaceX Starship, targeting a launch no earlier than 2030. The agreement marks the launch of a new, more affordable lunar cargo rideshare service, with ispace designing a flatbed-like vehicle to deliver client payloads to the lunar surface. The collaboration is expected to accelerate ispace's growth in the lunar infrastructure market despite previous failed landing attempts.

Era of Cheap Phones to End in 2026, Smartphone Sales to Face Growing Challenges

The era of affordable smartphones is predicted to end by 2026 as soaring memory component costs make low-end devices increasingly unprofitable. A new report indicates that DRAM and NAND price hikes are forcing manufacturers to raise prices or abandon the sub-US$400 market segment entirely. This shift is expected to cause a significant contraction in the global budget phone market while the premium segment continues to grow.

Prambanan Temple Restoration: PM Modi Guarantees Surge in Tourist Arrivals

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged that the number of Indian tourists visiting Prambanan Temple will multiply exponentially following the completion of a joint restoration project with Indonesia. Speaking alongside President Prabowo Subianto in Yogyakarta, Modi expressed confidence the long-term conservation effort could be finished within three years, ahead of its 2036 schedule. The project focuses on restoring over 200 companion temples within the UNESCO-listed complex.

House Member: No One May Obstruct Coal Corruption Investigation

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has warned against any attempts to obstruct a police investigation into alleged corruption in coal procurement at PLN, which is suspected of triggering blackouts in Sumatra. Bimantoro Wiyono urged investigators to work professionally and called for a comprehensive probe into all involved parties, including those who may have laundered assets. The lawmaker stressed that the case has caused significant economic and social harm to the public.

BRI facilitates mortgage takeovers with competitive rates and top-up facilities

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is promoting its KPR Take Over programme, designed to help customers transfer their existing mortgages from other banks. The scheme offers competitive interest rates starting from 3.00% fixed for one year, flexible tenors up to 25 years, and the option for additional top-up funds. The programme aims to ease financial burdens by reducing monthly instalments and providing extra capital for needs such as renovation or business ventures.

IMF Forecasts Indonesia's Economy to Remain Resilient, Growing 5% in 2026 Amid Global Conflicts

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has maintained its projection for Indonesia's economic growth at 5% for 2026, despite rising global uncertainty fuelled by geopolitical conflicts. The forecast, part of the July 2026 World Economic Outlook, remains unchanged from April, even as the fund revised down its global growth estimate and warned of stalled disinflation. The IMF noted that the world economy has so far weathered war-related shocks better than feared, partly due to stable oil prices and a growing share of renewable energy.

Central Java Records 1,704 New HIV Cases in 2026, LSL Group Dominates

Central Java has reported 1,704 new HIV cases so far in 2026, with men who have sex with men (LSL) identified as the dominant transmission group over the past five years. Governor Ahmad Luthfi has highlighted the issue as a serious concern, linking it to a presidential regulation on non-military threats. The highest number of new cases is concentrated in the 25–29 age bracket, with Semarang city recording the most infections.

Three workers die from suspected gas poisoning in Cipayung culvert

Three construction workers died in East Jakarta on Thursday after allegedly inhaling toxic gas while working inside a culvert. The incident occurred on Jalan Pintu 3 Keong Mas, Cipayung, when one worker collapsed and two others succumbed while attempting a rescue. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the gas presence in the drainage channel.

ICC 2026 Successfully Held, Unites Cross-Sector and Produces 667 Real Action Commitments for Transformation

The Indonesia Coaching Conference (ICC) 2026 convened over 200 participants from diverse sectors in Jakarta, focusing on the role of coaching in driving human and organisational transformation. The event, themed 'Coaching The Next Human Transformation', generated 667 concrete action commitments from attendees. Organisers emphasised that coaching is a strategic approach to building leadership and adaptability amidst rapid technological disruption.

BI: June 2026 Retail Sales Performance Forecast to Remain Stable

Bank Indonesia forecasts that retail sales performance will remain stable in June 2026, despite a projected annual contraction. The central bank's survey indicates a month-to-month improvement, supported by increased household spending during the school holiday period.

Suspended Riau Governor Demanded 8.5 Years in Prison in 'Thug Levy' Case

Prosecutors have demanded an eight-and-a-half-year prison sentence for suspended Riau Governor Abdul Wahid over charges of extorting subordinates. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) alleges he threatened officials to secure illegal payments, known locally as a 'thug levy', on at least three occasions in 2025. The trial is ongoing at the Pekanbaru Corruption Court.

Bank Mandiri's 'Nyaman Bersama Mandiri' Campaign Enhances Secure Transactions

Bank Mandiri has launched the 'Nyaman Bersama Mandiri' campaign to deliver consistent and reassuring service experiences, aligning with the Danamon CX100 framework for state-owned enterprises. The initiative focuses on two core messages, 'Layanan Bikin Tenang' and 'Transaksinya Terjaga', to strengthen customer trust through integrated digital platforms and a nationwide branch network. The bank also emphasised multi-layered security measures, including biometrics and QR-based authentication, across its Livin', Kopra, and Livin' Merchant applications.

Vietnam Builds 'Paradise Island' Off Natuna, Trump and Xi Jinping Set to Visit

Vietnam's Sun Group is racing to transform Phu Quoc Island into a regional tourism and conference hub ahead of the 2027 APEC Summit, which is expected to host global leaders including US President Donald Trump and China's President Xi Jinping. The massive development includes a new convention centre, luxury resorts, and a major airport expansion in partnership with Singapore's Changi Airports International. The project is backed by significant state credit easing and aims to attract up to 50 million annual visitors by 2045.

Iran to Bury Ali Khamenei as US Intensifies Attacks

Iran is preparing to inter Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in his hometown of Mashhad, concluding days of mass funeral ceremonies attended by millions. The burial comes as the United States escalates military strikes against Iranian targets following the collapse of a fragile ceasefire. Khamenei's successor, his son Mojtaba, has not been seen in public since reportedly being wounded in the same attack that killed his father.

Manufacturing Surabaya 2026 Strengthens Eastern Indonesia's Manufacturing Ecosystem Towards a New Era

The 20th edition of Manufacturing Surabaya aims to position Eastern Indonesia as a new industrial hub, reflecting the region's growing role in national industrial growth. The event will serve as a collaborative platform connecting manufacturing, energy, and agriculture sectors to accelerate technology adoption and business networking. Organisers highlight the need for cross-industry collaboration to enhance supply chains, human resource competency, and operational efficiency.

ISBI Bandung Lecturer Breaks Down in Court, Reveals Salary Inadequacy Forced Him to Sell Baby Porridge

An Indonesian civil servant lecturer testified before the Constitutional Court about the dire financial struggles faced by educators. Imam Akhmad of ISBI Bandung revealed his starting salary was insufficient to support his family, forcing him and his wife to sell baby porridge and clothes. He hopes the judicial review will prompt the government to improve the welfare of lecturers and teachers nationwide.

Indonesia Sanctions Companies Causing Transboundary Haze up to Hundreds of Billions of Rupiah

Indonesia has imposed sanctions worth hundreds of billions of rupiah on companies responsible for forest and land fires that triggered transboundary haze pollution, according to the Environment Minister. The government is also working to reduce fire hotspots by engaging land concession holders and local communities to maintain the moisture of peatlands through canal blocking and the creation of small reservoirs. These efforts were discussed at the 27th Technical Working Group and Ministerial Steering Committee on Transboundary Haze Pollution in Bali, where ASEAN member states committed to strengthening cooperation and refining mitigation systems by 2030.

Four Tananahu Indigenous Residents Arrested After Protesting Land Clearance in Maluku

Four indigenous residents of Negeri Tananahu in Central Maluku have been arrested following a protest against the clearance of 3,458 hectares of customary land by state-owned plantation company PTPN. The land is reportedly being cleared for a nutmeg and coconut processing factory intended to support President Prabowo Subianto's downstreaming programme. The community claims the company's cultivation rights title expired in 2012 and are demanding the legal status of the land be resolved before any development proceeds.

Businesses Reminded to Include Registration Number on Halal Labels

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has urged business operators to include the halal certificate registration number alongside the halal logo on product packaging. Officials noted that many products display the logo without the number, making legal verification difficult. The ministry emphasised that full compliance strengthens consumer trust and enhances the competitiveness of Indonesian products in the global halal market.

KPK Summons Aide and Family of Suspended Kuansing Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned the driver, aide, and a family member of suspended Kuantan Singingi Regent Suhardiman Amby as witnesses in a bribery investigation. The case involves alleged corruption within the Kuantan Singingi district administration, including suspected gratuities related to the release of limited production forest areas. The regent and the regional secretary surrendered to the KPK following a sting operation in late June 2026.

TNI Denies Deploying Personnel After Video of Buzz-Cut Men at Jakarta Police HQ Goes Viral

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has denied allegations that its personnel were involved in a late-night visit to the Jakarta Metropolitan Police headquarters, following the circulation of a viral video. The footage showed a group of men with buzz cuts, wearing green camouflage uniforms and carrying weapons, standing in the police compound. TNI's head of public information stated the military respects legal processes and cast doubt on claims that the individuals were from the Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS).

Chronology of TNI Maung Tactical Vehicle Accident on Jakarta Inner-City Toll Road

A single-vehicle accident involving an Indonesian military (TNI) Maung tactical vehicle occurred on the Jakarta Inner-City Toll Road on Thursday morning. Police suspect the driver experienced a microsleep, causing the vehicle to lose control and crash into a road divider and signpost. Two passengers were injured and taken to hospital, while the driver was unharmed.

Megawati Affirms PDIP as Balancing Force, PKS Recalls Opposition Role Under Jokowi

PDIP Chairperson Megawati Soekarnoputri has reiterated her party's role as a 'balancing force' rather than an opposition, citing Indonesia's presidential system. In response, PKS Secretary-General M. Kholid highlighted his party's decade-long opposition during the Jokowi administration, noting their consistent rejection of key legislation.

BAZNAS Urges Companies to View Zakat as Impactful Social Investment

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) is calling on corporations to see zakat not merely as an obligation but as a strategic social investment that can help alleviate poverty. The agency highlighted the benefits of channelling corporate zakat through its extensive network, including tax incentives and enhanced reputation. BAZNAS and the National Sharia Board of the Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN-MUI) are encouraging collective zakat collection to maximise its impact on community empowerment.

KAI Transports 1.17 Million Tonnes of Cement and Clinker, Strengthening Rail-Based Construction Logistics

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) transported 1.17 million tonnes of cement and clinker in the first half of 2026, reinforcing its role in the national supply chain. The rail-based logistics service offers a more scheduled, efficient, and lower-emission alternative for moving bulk construction materials. KAI highlights that shifting freight to rail can significantly reduce logistics costs and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting Indonesia's infrastructure development and economic competitiveness.

UN: Young People Willing to Marry and Have Children if Financially Secure

A new United Nations survey reveals that the majority of young adults worldwide aspire to marry and have children, but financial stability remains the primary prerequisite. The UNFPA report, covering over 108,000 respondents across 73 countries, found that economic constraints and housing are the biggest barriers to parenthood. Officials stressed that uncertainty, not unwillingness, drives young people's hesitation, urging governments to provide decent work, affordable housing, and childcare support.

Five NATO members pledge to increase defence spending budgets

Germany, Hungary, Turkey, Portugal, and Slovakia have committed to raising their defence budgets during a NATO summit in Ankara. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicated Germany would reach the alliance's new 5 percent of GDP target ahead of schedule, while Hungary and Turkey set 2035 and 2030 as their respective target years. The pledges come amid a broader European trend, with defence spending reportedly rising by over 100 billion euros in the past year.

Badung Extends Student Registration as Thousands of Seats Remain Vacant

The Badung Education Office has extended the online registration period for primary and junior high schools after 2,572 seats remained unfilled. Officials emphasised the process is strictly online and transparent, with the central ministry locking quotas to prevent manipulation. Authorities warned that any attempt to insert unregistered students would result in the entire school's data being invalidated.

PGE Spuds First Well for Lumut Balai 3, Geothermal Capacity Set to Rise by 55 MW

PT Pertamina Geothermal Energy has commenced drilling the first exploration well for the Lumut Balai Unit 3 geothermal power plant in South Sumatra. The project, targeting an additional 55 MW of capacity by 2030, is part of the company's long-term roadmap to achieve 3 GW of installed capacity. The development has also been included in the government's Green Book, opening access to foreign loan facilities to accelerate its completion.

OJK approves merger of eight rural banks to strengthen banking industry

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved the merger of eight rural banks (BPR) into PT BPR Pusaka Dana to bolster the national banking industry. The consolidation aims to enhance capital structure, operational efficiency, and competitiveness, particularly in serving micro, small, and medium enterprises. The merged entity now operates across Banten, West Java, Central Java, and East Java.

Viral 'Tramadol Seller' Taped Up in Bekasi Was Just Content, Police Say

Police in Bekasi have concluded that a viral video showing a man bound with tape and labelled as a Tramadol seller was staged for content creation. Authorities confirmed there were no victims or official reports, but they are continuing to investigate the illegal sale of prescription drugs. The police urged the public not to take the law into their own hands and to report any suspected drug activity through official channels.

Access by KAI Serves 17.01 Million Main and Local Train Transactions in First Half of 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's digital ecosystem, Access by KAI, handled 17.01 million transactions for main and local train services in the first half of 2026, accounting for over 76 percent of total ticket sales. The platform served 24.54 million customers, reflecting a growing public reliance on the official app for journey planning and management. Overall, KAI Group passenger mobility rose 7.55 percent year-on-year to 258.99 million, driven by growth across long-distance, commuter, and LRT services.

Six New Groups Proposed for Free TransJakarta Rides, Here's the List

The Jakarta Transport Council has proposed adding six new categories of passengers eligible for free TransJakarta services. The initiative aims to protect vulnerable groups and low-income residents ahead of potential public transport fare adjustments. Governor Pramono Anung confirmed a final review is underway, with a decision expected alongside the new tariff structure.

Three Defendants in BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Fictitious Claim Case Charged with Causing Rp 24.5 Billion in State Losses

Three individuals, including two former BPJS Ketenagakerjaan verification staff and a former HR director, have been charged with corruption for orchestrating fictitious workplace accident claims. Prosecutors allege the scheme, which ran from 2014 to 2024, caused state losses of Rp 24.5 billion. The defendants are accused of processing fraudulent claims using fabricated documents and personally profiting from the illicit payouts.

Dengue vaccine shows ability to address infectious diseases: BPOM

Indonesia's Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has highlighted the development of a prototype mRNA-based dengue vaccine as a significant step in combating the disease. BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar stressed the importance of involving regulators from the earliest stages of research to ensure standards are met and to accelerate product development. The project is a collaboration between the University of Indonesia, Tsinghua University, and PT Etana, reflecting strategic health cooperation between Indonesia and China.

Health Ministry pushes for 100 percent close contact tracing to break TB transmission chain

Indonesia's Health Ministry is mandating 100 percent tracing of families and close contacts of tuberculosis patients as part of an aggressive new strategy to eliminate the disease by 2030. The approach shifts focus from merely treating the sick to actively protecting those at risk, utilising free health screenings and portable X-rays. With Indonesia accounting for roughly 10 percent of global TB cases, officials stress that overcoming stigma and ensuring treatment adherence are critical to safeguarding public health and productivity.

OJK Seizes Rp 113.97 Billion in Assets from Asuransi Jiwa Prolife (Indosurya)

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has seized assets worth Rp 113.97 billion in connection with a criminal investigation into PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife Indonesia, formerly known as PT Asuransi Jiwa Indosurya Sukses. The operation involved cross-agency collaboration with the police, the Attorney General's Office, and several ministries. The OJK emphasised that this enforcement action underscores its commitment to protecting consumers and maintaining integrity in the financial services sector.

Locksmith Reveals Sophisticated Safe Containing 74 kg of Gold in Bogor Had Double-Layered Steel

A locksmith involved in a corruption raid in Sentul, Bogor, described the safe containing 74 kilograms of gold as highly sophisticated, featuring a combination lock and two layers of steel. The safe, which was camouflaged behind a wardrobe and built into a wall, was breached in approximately 15 minutes using a grinder after the manual lock was picked. The discovery is part of a major investigation into graft at state-owned enterprises PLN, ASABRI, and Krakatau Steel, with the total value of seized assets estimated at Rp 476 billion.

Venezuela expresses gratitude for international aid for earthquake victims

Venezuela's acting president Delcy Rodriguez thanked 28 nations, including China, for humanitarian aid following a devastating earthquake. Over 2,000 tonnes of international assistance is being sorted in Caracas for distribution to temporary camps. The official death toll from the twin quakes has risen to 3,685, with 16,740 injured.

OJK Reveals How Indosurya Boss Embezzled Hundreds of Billions in Customer Funds

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has detailed the method used by Henry Surya, the boss of PT Asuransi Jiwa Prolife Indonesia (Indosurya), to embezzle hundreds of billions of rupiah from policyholders. The scheme involved directing investments into affiliated Medium Term Notes (MTN) and subsequently converting them into shares, violating OJK regulations. This case marks the first time the OJK has pursued criminal charges based on the disregard of a written order under the new Financial Sector Law.

ORI: Coordination Needed to Address Delays in Handing Over House Certificates

The Indonesian Ombudsman (ORI) has called for stronger coordination between banks, developers, and stakeholders to resolve persistent delays in handing over house certificates to buyers. The issue was raised during a meeting with state-owned Bank BTN, where ORI noted that most public complaints relate to credit services. BTN reaffirmed its commitment to resolving customer issues and welcomed the collaboration ahead of ORI's planned assessment of the bank's public service delivery in 2026.

Free Private School Programme Not Yet Effective in Addressing Seat Shortage

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has acknowledged that collaboration with private schools has so far been ineffective in resolving the annual shortage of places in state schools. The ministry noted that the policy's success hinges on consistent local government regulations, funding mechanisms, and quality oversight. It is urging regional administrations to provide operational assistance or direct subsidies to accredited private schools to accommodate students who cannot secure state school places.

PNM Deemed Unsuitable for Merger of Four State-Owned Asset Management Firms

An expert argues that including PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) in the planned merger of four state-owned asset managers is inappropriate due to its public service mission. The merger aims to consolidate BNI, BRI, Mandiri, and PNM's investment management arms to boost capital and competitiveness. Critics warn that forcing PNM into a profit-oriented structure could jeopardise its core mission of providing financing to micro, small, and cooperative enterprises.

Bittime: Indonesian Investor Interest in AI Stock Tokenisation Surges

Indonesian investor appetite for tokenised US stocks in the artificial intelligence sector is rising sharply, according to digital asset platform Bittime. The majority of new funds are concentrated in AI leaders like NVIDIA, Meta, and Microsoft, while the Financial Services Authority (OJK) moves to strengthen the regulatory framework for digital financial assets. Bittime views this regulatory commitment as crucial for accelerating digital asset adoption and expanding access to global investment opportunities.

Indonesia's HRI market largest in ASEAN, reaches 29 billion US dollars

Indonesia's Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional (HRI) market has become the largest food service sector in ASEAN, valued at 29 billion US dollars in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The upcoming Food & Hospitality Indonesia 2026 exhibition aims to capitalise on this growth by fostering collaboration and innovation across the industry. The sector is being driven by international hotel expansion, specialty coffee trends, and digital food delivery, whilst also facing transformation through premiumisation and halal certification requirements.

KPK summons three witnesses in BPK audit bribery case in Muara Enim

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned three witnesses, including a housewife and two private sector individuals, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery linked to the conditioning of a Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) report on Muara Enim Regency. The case stems from a series of sting operations in June 2026 that led to the arrest of multiple suspects, including BPK auditors and local government officials. The investigation highlights persistent corruption risks in the oversight of regional government finances and procurement.

Death Toll from Israeli Aggression in Gaza Rises to 73,110

Medical sources in Gaza report that the death toll from the Israeli aggression since October has climbed to 73,110, with a further 173,599 wounded, the majority being women and children. Despite a ceasefire taking effect on 11 October, violations have continued, resulting in additional casualties. Rescue teams are still struggling to recover many bodies trapped under rubble.

West Bangka Regent Urges Preservation of 'Kelekak' Durian as Cultural Identity

West Bangka Regent Markus has called on residents to preserve the traditional 'kelekak' durian orchards, highlighting their dual role as a cultural heritage and a source of economic prosperity. The appeal was made during a durian contest aimed at identifying superior local varieties to boost their national and international recognition. The local government is committed to supporting cultivation and preventing other regions from claiming the area's unique durian varieties.

Karet–BNI City Station Integration Targeted for Operation on 28 September 2026

State railway operator PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has announced that the integration of Karet Station and BNI City Station is scheduled to commence operations on 28 September 2026. The project aims to enhance commuter safety and comfort by constructing an air-conditioned travelator concourse and reorganising access around the busy stations. The initiative addresses the high passenger volume, which exceeded 9.9 million gate activities in the first half of 2026, and seeks to streamline the flow for commuters, intermodal transfers, and airport rail link services.

Comedian Narji Leaves PKS, Joins PSI

Comedian and former Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) cadre Narji has officially joined the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI). The move was confirmed by PSI executive Bestari Barus, who stated Narji was inducted during a mass circumcision event in Banten. PKS has publicly respected Narji's personal decision, viewing it as a normal part of democratic political dynamics.

Indonesian military joins 2026 RIMPAC to reinforce regional stability

Indonesia has deployed 37 elite Marine Corps soldiers to participate in the 2026 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, the world's largest multinational naval drill. The contingent's involvement, which includes showcasing specialised tropical jungle survival skills, underscores Jakarta's commitment to enhancing interoperability and strategic defence cooperation with the United States and other partner nations. The exercise is viewed as a key platform for strengthening collective capabilities in maritime security and disaster response to maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.