Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

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Expert: Algorithms Can Be Dangerous, Must Not Be Immune to the Law

Legal expert Harris Arthur Hedar warns that algorithms in digital technology pose significant challenges to conventional legal systems, as they influence public behaviour and information consumption without being neutral or beyond legal reach. He highlights difficulties in proving causality, establishing legal status for algorithms, and enforcing jurisdiction over global tech firms, advocating for expanded concepts of negligence and treating algorithms as defective products to ensure accountability. This push aims to align technological innovation with human dignity and justice in the cyber realm.

Marine Traffic: Over 30 Ships Heading Towards the Strait of Hormuz

More than 30 commercial ships are currently sailing towards the Strait of Hormuz, including 23 from the Persian Gulf and eight from the Gulf of Oman, amid ongoing tensions. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced the full reopening of the shipping lane for commercial vessels during the ceasefire in Lebanon, while the US President Donald Trump stated that the US naval blockade of Iranian ports would remain in place until an agreement is reached. The IRGC Navy introduced new navigation rules, restricting civilian ships to designated routes in the strait.

Bapanas Ensures Soybean Supply for Tofu and Tempeh Producers

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has assured that soybean supplies remain sufficient to meet national demands, particularly for tofu and tempeh producers, ensuring business continuity and product affordability for consumers. Current stocks stand at 322,000 tonnes until the end of April, exceeding monthly requirements of 220,000 to 230,000 tonnes, with projections indicating safe levels through April 2026. This monitoring effort underscores the government's commitment to stabilising a key agricultural commodity, given that over 90% of national soybean needs come from the small-scale food industry.

Electric Cars and Motorcycles Could Face Taxes, Bali DPRD Proposes Lower Rates

The Bali DPRD's Commission II has suggested that taxes on electric vehicles should be lower than those on fuel-powered ones, in response to the new Ministry of Home Affairs Regulation No. 11 of 2026, which removes exemptions for electric vehicles from motor vehicle taxes (PKB) and vehicle transfer fees (BBNKB). Chairman Agung Bagus Pratiksa Linggih noted that while revenue from electric vehicles may not significantly boost regional income due to owners mostly replacing rather than adding units, the shift to electrification will not reduce overall local revenue, which largely comes from PKB. This policy change aims to standardise taxation but could influence the adoption of greener transport in Indonesia if rates are adjusted favourably.

Agriculture Minister: CPO Exports Strengthen, Indonesia Solidifies Position as World's Palm Oil King

Indonesia's crude palm oil (CPO) exports surged by 26.4% to $4.69 billion in January-February 2026 compared to the previous year, reinforcing the country's dominance in the global market where it controls over 60% of supply. Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman highlighted that processing CPO into products like margarine and cosmetics makes the world heavily reliant on Indonesia. Domestic production also rose significantly in 2025, reaching 51.66 million tons for CPO, underscoring the sector's robust competitiveness and economic significance.

Electric Car Price Update April 2026: Jaecoo Raises J5 EV Price

PT Chery Sales Indonesia has adjusted the prices of its new Jaecoo J5 EV compact SUV upwards effective April 2026, with the Standard variant now at Rp 279.9 million and the Premium at Rp 309.9 million. This significant increase reflects the initial aggressive pricing strategy and ongoing market dynamics influenced by incentives, logistics costs, and exchange rate fluctuations. The update also includes a comprehensive list of prices for various electric vehicle models from brands like Aion, BMW, BYD, and others, highlighting the evolving affordability in Indonesia's EV sector.

Nutri-Level Labelling Policy for Packaged Sugary Drinks Deemed Ambiguous

The Chairman of the Indonesian Empowered Consumers Forum, Tulus Abadi, has criticised the Ministry of Health's nutri-level labelling system for packaged sugary drinks as ambiguous and overly compromising towards industry interests, arguing that it fails to effectively curb degenerative diseases like diabetes and hypertension. He calls for stronger measures, including front-of-pack labelling and the imposition of excise taxes on sugary beverages as mandated by recent regulations, to better protect public health and generate state revenue amid a budget deficit. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin launched the policy, which classifies drinks into four colour-coded levels based on sugar content to help consumers make informed choices.

More than 30 commercial vessels heading to Strait of Hormuz

More than 30 commercial vessels, including 23 dry cargo ships from the Persian Gulf and eight from the Gulf of Oman—six of which are oil tankers—are currently en route to the Strait of Hormuz, according to MarineTraffic data analysed by RIA Novosti. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that commercial shipping lanes through the strait remain fully open during the ceasefire, while US President Donald Trump affirmed that the US naval blockade on Iranian ports will persist until a deal is reached. The IRGC Navy announced a new navigation order restricting civilian vessels to designated routes in the strait.

Two Shooting Incidents in Mimika, TNI Asserts They Are Not Related

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has clarified that two shooting incidents in Mimika Regency, Central Papua, on 14 April 2026, are separate events with no connection to each other. One incident involved a fatal shooting of a child under investigation, while the other saw TNI troops exchange fire with an armed group, resulting in four deaths and the seizure of weapons, OPM flags, and other items. TNI emphasises its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and accountability in operations amid ongoing regional tensions.

Palm Oil Industry Contributes to Green Economy and Job Creation

The Indonesian palm oil industry is committed to fostering a green economy by driving economic growth, environmental conservation, and social contributions, as stated by Gapki's Positive Campaign Chairman Edi Suhardi. It significantly boosts the national economy by creating 17 million direct and indirect jobs, enhancing regional development through multiplier effects, and improving infrastructure in remote areas. Edi emphasised the industry's potential for greater impact via stronger synergies with the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP), ultimately reducing poverty and elevating community welfare.

Describing All Indonesian DPRD Chairmen as Patriots, Prabowo to Give Straightforward Guidance

President Prabowo Subianto addressed 503 DPRD chairmen from across Indonesia at a leadership enhancement course in Magelang, Central Java, praising them as patriots who love the nation and its people. He committed to speaking candidly during the event, which was ultimately held in a closed session and broadcast online, and was accompanied by several ministers including those of Defence, Foreign Affairs, and Home Affairs. The course aims to ensure regional leaders understand and implement the government's Astacita vision, covering national consensuses and global geopolitical dynamics.

Strait of Hormuz Opened but Iran Could Close It Again, Here's Why

Iran has opened the Strait of Hormuz following the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, allowing full commercial shipping access for the next 10 days, as announced by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. US President Trump hailed the development and claimed Iran agreed to suspend uranium enrichment without compensation, though a US Navy blockade remains in place as a guarantee until all transactions are complete. However, Iran reserves the right to swiftly reclose the strait if field conditions demand it, especially with the ongoing US presence, and commercial routes will be controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Bamsoet Appreciates SW60+ Declaration to Tackle Disinformation Challenges

Bambang Soesatyo, a prominent Indonesian parliamentarian and former MPR chairman, has praised the formation of the Indonesian Senior Journalists Union (SW60+) as a timely initiative amid rising social fragmentation, political polarisation, and rampant disinformation threatening national stability. He highlighted the surge in large-scale demonstrations, negative social media sentiments, and hoaxes in 2025 that exacerbate divisions, underscoring the crucial role of senior journalists in countering misinformation, identity politics, and manipulative narratives to foster unity. The declaration event in Jakarta drew key figures including Minister Meutya Hafid and various political and media leaders, signalling strong institutional support for ethical journalism in safeguarding public discourse.

Strait of Hormuz Reopened, Two Detained Pertamina Ships Prepare to Sail

Following the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz announced by Iran and US President Donald Trump amid a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, PT Pertamina International Shipping is preparing to sail two detained vessels, Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, through the vital trade route. The company is conducting intensive monitoring, risk assessments, and coordinating with the Indonesian Foreign Ministry, insurers, and local authorities to ensure safe passage and compliance with all procedures. This development signals cautious optimism in international markets, prioritising crew safety and cargo security for Indonesia's state-owned energy firm.

Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs promotes downstream processing and food research on university campuses

Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan has urged the strengthening of food downstream processing and research initiatives based in universities to safeguard Indonesia's national food security amid escalating global challenges. Speaking at a national seminar in Purwokerto, he highlighted the country's ample supplies of rice, fish, eggs, poultry, vegetables, and fruits, attributing this to robust production levels. Hasan emphasised the need for collaboration with higher education institutions to develop superior crop varieties and simple technologies, such as converting organic waste into fertiliser, to ensure sustainable food production.

At PPIH Inauguration, Government Affirms Commitment to Protect Hajj Pilgrims

The Indonesian government, through Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has emphasised its commitment to protecting Hajj pilgrims by prioritising inclusive and protective services, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, disabled individuals, women, and other at-risk communities. During the official inauguration of the Hajj Organising Committee (PPIH) for all embarkation points in Indonesia for the year 1447 H/2026 AD, the Minister stressed the importance of integrity among officials, accurate data management, transparent governance of sacrificial animal distribution, and precise technical preparations to ensure seamless services from the embarkation stage. This initiative underscores the government's dedication to fostering trust and delivering exemplary service, viewing the inauguration not merely as a ceremony but as a reinforcement of duty to provide tangible guidance, protection, and support for pilgrims.

Semarang: An Inclusive City – Easter Carnival Provides a Stage for People with Disabilities

The Easter Carnival in Semarang 2026 highlighted the city's commitment to inclusivity by featuring performances by people with disabilities at the event's finale in front of City Hall, sending a powerful message of equality and open access for all. Mayor Agustina Wilujeng emphasised that the city's strength stems from managing diversity effectively, turning differences into meaningful unity rather than relying on similarities. This initiative reflects that urban development extends beyond infrastructure to building equitable social spaces that embrace every layer of society, affirming Semarang's progress towards a truly inclusive urban environment.

Russia Interested in Investing in Oil Refinery and Storage, Ready to Strengthen Indonesia's Energy Resilience

Russia has expressed interest in investing in an oil refinery and storage facilities to bolster Indonesia's long-term energy security and reduce reliance on fuel imports, following discussions between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Vladimir Putin. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed that agreements for Russian support were reached in meetings with his Russian counterpart, with cooperation models under consideration via government-to-government or business-to-business mechanisms. This initiative complements ongoing efforts like the Balikpapan RDMP and B50 biodiesel mandate, aiming to cut imports amid domestic production shortfalls and global supply risks.

Observer: Kopdes Merah Putih Managers Must Have Clear SOP and Indicators

Cooperative expert Agung Sujatmiko emphasises that the success of the government’s programme to place managers in Kopdes Merah Putih cooperatives hinges on clear standard operating procedures (SOP) and measurable performance indicators to define their roles, responsibilities, and contributions to village-level economic development. He stresses the need for managers to go beyond administrative tasks, innovating in areas like agricultural product processing, value addition, and distribution systems to expand market access from local to export levels. The government has launched recruitment for 30,000 such positions under PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara, with placements aimed at modernising cooperative management through two-year contracts, underscoring the importance of ongoing government evaluation and support for the initiative’s effectiveness.

Australia and Japan sign multibillion-dollar warship deal

Australia and Japan have finalised a AU$10 billion deal for Japan to supply the first three of nearly a dozen advanced Mogami-class stealth frigates to the Royal Australian Navy, marking one of Japan's largest defence exports since World War II. This agreement, signed in Sydney with Japan's Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in attendance, supports Australia's plan to expand its major warship fleet from 11 to 26 over the next decade to enhance long-range capabilities amid regional tensions. As members of the Quad alliance with the US and India, both nations are strengthening military ties to counter China's assertiveness in the Asia-Pacific.

Archive Statistics

330,934
Total Articles
1012
News Sources
1994-2026
Coverage Period