Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 March 2026

Showing 1,251-1,300 of 2,010 articles

Expert Values KPU Entry as Fourth Branch of Power to Strengthen Independence

Constitutional law expert Titi Anggraini from the University of Indonesia has endorsed a proposal to establish the General Elections Commission (KPU) as a fourth branch of state power, arguing this would strengthen its institutional independence and prevent political interference. The proposal, made by constitutional law scholar Jimly Asshiddiqie during parliamentary hearings, would elevate electoral administration from mere administrative function to a constitutionally protected democratic foundation. Anggraini emphasised that whilst elevating the KPU's status is crucial, it must be accompanied by heightened accountability, professional standards, and strict oversight mechanisms.

Banten Police Uncover 15 kg Methamphetamine Smuggling at Merak Port

Banten Regional Police have dismantled a methamphetamine smuggling operation at Merak Port, seizing 15 kilograms of the drug and detaining a passenger carrying firearms. The provincial police chief announced that narcotics officers and security personnel will maintain enhanced surveillance at the port and on ferries operating between Merak and Ciwandan to ensure passenger safety.

Pupuk Indonesia Wins Multiple Awards at 2026 BUMN Excellence Awards

PT Pupuk Indonesia (Persero) has won several awards at the 2026 BUMN Excellence Awards ceremony, including CEO Rahmad Pribadi's recognition as The Best CEO Visionary Leadership, alongside corporate awards for best growth strategy, best strategic collaboration, and organisation transformation. The awards recognise the company's commitment to business transformation, operational efficiency, and good corporate governance whilst fulfilling its mandate to ensure fertiliser supply for national food security.

Hyundai Ioniq 9 Already in Indonesia, But Not Yet for Sale

Hyundai has brought its latest electric vehicle, the Ioniq 9 SUV, to Indonesia and displayed it at an experience centre in Jakarta, though the company has confirmed it is not yet available for official sale through dealerships. The units currently in Indonesia are being used for market research to evaluate consumer response and determine the feasibility of commercial launch in the country, with no final decision yet made on whether the vehicle will be sold domestically.

Roy Suryo Responds to Rismon's Request for Restorative Justice in Jokowi Diploma Case: I Am Praying

Roy Suryo, one of the complainants in the alleged fake diploma case against President Joko Widodo, has responded to Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar's application for restorative justice, stating he is praying for Rismon whilst reaffirming his commitment to continue pursuing the case alongside fellow complainant Dr Tifauzia Tyassuma. Rismon has submitted a restorative justice petition to Metro Jaya Police, with investigators currently processing the request as a facilitator.

OJK Chief Reveals Another Meeting with MSCI This Week

The Indonesian Financial Services Authority (OJK) chief disclosed that another meeting with Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) is scheduled for this week to discuss shareholder disclosure requirements above 1%. The OJK has reported new data on share ownership disclosures and expects MSCI to reassess Indonesia's market classification in May, with hopes that improved data granularity will satisfy MSCI's expectations for index inclusion upgrade.

Police Hunt Armed Robbers Who Drained Safe at Bekasi Service Station

A group of four suspected robbers raided a fuel service station in Babelan District, Bekasi, early Tuesday morning, threatening staff with what appeared to be a firearm and stealing cash from the safe. Police later discovered the weapon was only a toy gun, and authorities are currently pursuing the suspects with combined efforts from Bekasi Metro Police and Jakarta Metropolitan Police.

One Year of Danantara: TelkomGroup Distributes 2,500 School Supplies Packages in North Kalimantan

Danantara Indonesia marked its first anniversary with a reflection event, during which TelkomGroup distributed 2,500 school supplies packages to students across North Kalimantan, including Tarakan, Malinau, and Nunukan. The initiative, coordinated across multiple TelkomGroup entities, underscores the holding company's commitment to sustainable social impact and human resource development as a foundation for national progress. President Prabowo Subianto and Danantara CEO Rosan Roeslani emphasised the institution's role as a professionally managed state asset holding company aligned with global sovereign wealth fund standards.

Pertamina provides energy services to the public at Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road rest area

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has prepared comprehensive services at the Km 57 rest area of the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road to manage fuel demand during the 2026 Eid holiday exodus, including two modular fuel units with a combined capacity of 3,000 litres and mobile fuel services for stranded motorists. The state-owned enterprise has also established additional amenities such as rest lounges, haircut and nail care facilities, and a children's play area to ensure passengers travel safely and comfortably during peak holiday periods.

Telkom: Human Resources Strengthening is Critical Investment for Indonesia's Development

PT Telkom Indonesia has declared that strengthening human resources quality through investment in education and youth development is fundamental to the nation's future progress. The state-owned telecommunications company distributed 2,500 school supply packages across North Kalimantan regions through a collaborative effort by TelkomGroup subsidiaries, aiming to enhance educational access and learning motivation among students nationwide.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Prepares Migrant-Friendly Mosques at 62 Locations in Riau Islands

The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has established 62 migrant-friendly mosques across Riau Islands province to provide rest and worship facilities for travellers during the Eid al-Fitr exodus in March 2026. The national initiative, branded "Menyala" (Enjoyable, Comfortable, Safe and Smooth), aims to transform mosques into public service spaces offering amenities including prayer areas, clean ablution facilities, device charging stations, rest areas, and complimentary water and light refreshments.

Purbaya et al Confident Indonesia's Economy Will Continue to Grow Despite Strait of Hormuz Closure

Indonesia's Ministry of Finance, through Director General for Economic and Fiscal Strategy Febrio Kacaribu, has expressed confidence that the Indonesian economy will continue to grow despite supply chain disruptions caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid Iran's conflict with the United States and Israel. The ministry plans to implement balanced government spending throughout the year and accelerate budget realisation to maintain the target economic growth rate of 5.4 per cent year-on-year through to the end of 2026. Government spending realisation reached Rp 493.8 trillion (12.8 per cent of target) as of end-February, with tax revenue growing 30.4 per cent year-on-year to Rp 245.1 trillion.

AI Investment Continues as KPMG Survey of 100 CEOs Reveals Outlook

A KPMG survey of 100 major US-based CEOs reveals that whilst many executives believe generative AI adoption has been overhyped in the past year, three-quarters believe the true impact and disruptive potential of AI over the next five to ten years is underestimated. Despite one in four CEOs believing an AI investment bubble exists, nearly 80 per cent still consider AI a priority spending category, with CEOs allocating at least five per cent of capital budgets to AI this year.

KPK: Arrests of Nine Regional Heads Must Serve as Wake-Up Call for Voters

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested nine regional heads since 2025, viewing these cases not merely as legal matters but as critical warnings for voters to exercise greater electoral judgment. The KPK and parliamentary members emphasise that the recurring arrests underscore the need for voters to select leaders based on quality and integrity rather than transactional politics and money politics, with recent cases including allegations of bribery worth nearly Rp1 billion.

Observers: Military Involvement in Combating Terrorism Should Not Be the First Option

Observers and civil society groups have criticised a proposed presidential regulation granting the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) greater authority in counter-terrorism operations, arguing it risks constitutional violations and human rights abuses. Legal experts contend that terrorism should primarily remain within the remit of police and civilian law enforcement, with military involvement only as a last resort when civilian authorities are overwhelmed and threats are demonstrably severe. The debate reflects broader concerns about the balance between civilian and military authority in Indonesia's security governance.

Defence Minister: Deployment of TNI Troops to Gaza Awaits Board of Peace Update

Indonesia's Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin confirmed that 8,000 TNI personnel are ready for deployment to Gaza as part of the International Stabilisation Force under the Board of Peace, though no firm departure date has been set pending further developments. The deployment has faced significant opposition from military retirees and civil society, with critics arguing it violates Indonesia's constitution as it operates outside UN mandate and lacks proper parliamentary approval. Key concerns centre on whether Indonesia can truly maintain a non-combat role and protect Palestinian interests as deputy commander under US-led command structure.

Parliament Receives Presidential Letters on Cyber Resilience and Witness Protection Bills

The Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) has received three presidential letters, including two authorising the initiation of legislative discussions on the Witness and Victim Protection Bill and the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill. Additionally, a third letter concerns approval of a comprehensive economic partnership agreement between Indonesia and Canada, with House Speaker Puan Maharani confirming all matters will be processed according to established parliamentary procedures.

BTN Records Profit of Rp503 Billion by February 2026, Up 281.9 Percent

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) reported a net profit of Rp503 billion for the period through February 2026, representing a 281.9 percent year-on-year increase compared to Rp132 billion in the same period last year. The bank's strong performance was driven by growth in interest income (up 11.7 percent to Rp4.59 trillion) and a significant increase in net interest income (up 54.7 percent to Rp2.39 trillion), supported by expanded credit disbursement and third-party funds growth. BTN's chief executive expressed optimism that the bank's performance will continue to improve throughout 2026 as the institution pursues business transformation initiatives and digital innovation.

Seven Ministers Sign Joint Decree on Digital Technology and AI Utilisation

Seven Indonesian ministers signed a joint decree establishing guidelines for the utilisation and learning of digital technology and artificial intelligence across formal, non-formal, and informal education pathways. The agreement aims to support advanced and robust education for Indonesian children through academic, mental, and moral development, with coordination led by the Ministry of Human Development and Culture.

Middle East Geopolitics Heating Up, Puan Ensures Indonesian Pilgrims Will Still Depart for Hajj

Indonesia's House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has reaffirmed that the safety of Indonesian hajj pilgrims is the top priority amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, calling for comprehensive evaluation and risk mitigation measures for the 2026 hajj season. The DPR will conduct in-depth studies covering transport security, accommodation, and pilgrim protection procedures while ensuring the pilgrimage proceeds smoothly. Puan also warned the government against allowing rising regional tensions to justify increases in transportation costs for pilgrims.

Apple Opens Fifth Developer Academy in Jakarta, Attracting 100 Participants

Apple has inaugurated its fifth Developer Academy in Indonesia, located in Jakarta at Autograph Tower in partnership with Ciputra University, welcoming 100 developers and entrepreneurs in its inaugural cohort. The opening represents Apple's commitment to meeting Indonesia's mandatory domestic component level (TKDN) requirement of 40% for 4G and 5G technology products, following initial delays in launching the iPhone 16 series in the country. By 2026, Apple's training initiatives across Indonesia are projected to support over 700 participants from 77 cities and 27 provinces, providing a ten-month challenge-based learning programme in coding, design, artificial intelligence, and project management.

The Story of a Worker Who Cannot Take Eid Leave, Longing for Hometown and Parents' Graves

A 25-year-old journalist from Riau working in Jakarta cannot secure leave during Eid al-Fitr, forcing her to celebrate the religious holiday alone and away from family for the second consecutive year. The article highlights the struggles of migrant workers in Indonesia who cannot take holiday leave despite the cultural and religious significance of Eid, compounded by rising travel costs that make returning home financially unfeasible.

Defence Minister Explains Purpose of Alert Status One

Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin has reassured the public that the Indonesian military's (TNI) Alert Status One declaration is not cause for concern, but rather a protective measure to maintain public safety amid global and domestic tensions. The minister emphasised that the elevated defence posture is based on geostrategic considerations and will not negatively impact geopolitical or geoeconomic relations, whilst ensuring the nation remains secure and citizens have access to essential needs.

Observer: US Dollar Becomes Safe Haven Amid US-Iran Conflict

Escalating geopolitical tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran are driving significant strengthening of the US dollar as investors seek safe-haven assets, with the US Dollar Index surging past 99 and crude oil prices climbing towards $100 per barrel. The conflict, including recent attacks on foreign oil tankers in Iraqi territorial waters and aggressive posturing by Iran's leadership, is fuelling both increased crude oil prices and heightened demand for dollar-denominated assets amongst market participants.

Transjabodetabek Blok M-Soetta Bus Equipped with Luggage Storage

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has officially launched the Transjabodetabek SH2 route between Blok M and Soekarno-Hatta Airport, operating daily from 07:00 to 22:00 WIB. The service utilises low-deck buses specially modified with dedicated luggage storage compartments to accommodate passengers travelling to the airport. The route spans 65.1 kilometres across 23 stops with fares set at 2,000 rupiah during early morning hours (05:00-07:00) and 3,500 rupiah during standard hours, with promotional rates applied for the first three months.

Puan: Hajj Must Proceed Amid Global Geopolitical Turmoil

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has stated that Indonesia's 2026 hajj pilgrimage is expected to proceed despite escalating global geopolitical tensions and conflicts in the Middle East. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has prepared three contingency scenarios: maintaining the scheduled April 22 departure with alternative flight routes avoiding conflict zones, cancelling departures whilst Saudi Arabia remains open, or suspending operations entirely if Saudi Arabia closes hajj that year.

Indonesia and the United States Compared: US Budget Deficit Surpasses 16.9 Quadrillion Rupiah

The United States budget deficit has exceeded US$1 trillion (approximately 16.9 quadrillion rupiah) through February in the current fiscal year, though this represents a 12% decrease compared to the same period last year, largely due to increased government revenue outpacing spending growth. The improvement has been driven primarily by a surge in tariff revenue from import duties, which reached US$151 billion in the first five months of the fiscal year, though corporate tax revenues have declined sharply. In comparison, Indonesia's fiscal deficit for the first two months of 2026 stands at only 135 trillion rupiah, highlighting the vast disparity in the fiscal positions of the two nations.

Two Pertamina Tanker Ships Leave Gulf, But Not for Indonesian Market

Pertamina's Managing Director Simon Aloysius Mantiri disclosed that two of the state oil company's cargo ships, the Paragon and Rinjani, have resumed operations in the Middle Eastern gulf region, but are destined for export markets in Kenya and India rather than domestic supply. Two other Pertamina vessels, the Pertamina Pride and Gamsunuro, remain in the Strait of Hormuz, with the company prioritising crew safety and diversifying its crude oil sources from Africa and the Americas to reduce dependence on Middle Eastern supplies.

Thai Government Summons Iranian Ambassador After Thai-Flagged Tanker Hit by Missiles in Strait of Hormuz

Thailand has formally summoned Iran's Ambassador following an attack on the Thai-flagged bulk carrier Mayuree Naree in the Strait of Hormuz, which killed three crew members and prompted strong diplomatic protests from Bangkok. Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for the attack and a second assault on a Liberian-flagged vessel, claiming they ignored warnings. The incident is part of escalating attacks on commercial shipping in this critical waterway following Middle Eastern tensions, threatening global energy security as the strait handles one-fifth of global oil supplies.

Bareksa: Retail Investor Interest in Digital Gold Remains High

Bareksa reports sustained high interest among retail investors in digital gold despite global economic uncertainty, with digital gold transactions surging 331 per cent year-on-year and stock transactions growing 271 per cent. The platform attributes the confidence to clear regulatory frameworks from Bappebti and the OJK, though concerns persist regarding market transparency, asymmetric information distribution, and potential manipulation by large traders affecting retail investors.

Tax Compliance to Become Requirement for Mining Operators Submitting RKAB

The Indonesian government is finalising provisions on fiscal certificates (SKF) for mining sector taxpayers submitting work plans and budgets (RKAB), marking a significant shift in mining sector governance. Under the new regulation (PP No. 39 of 2025), submission of a fiscal certificate has become a mandatory administrative requirement for special mining permits (IUPK), strengthening tax compliance oversight in the mining industry.

Iran Attacks Oil Facilities, Brent Crude Prices Surge Sharply

Escalating Middle Eastern conflict has intensified with Iran launching coordinated air and naval attacks on energy infrastructure in the Persian Gulf, including strikes on oil tankers and fuel facilities across the region. The attacks have triggered a sharp surge in Brent crude oil prices to over US$100 per barrel, rising nearly 9%, as global markets fear disruption to supplies through the critical Strait of Hormuz, with Iranian officials warning prices could reach US$200 per barrel if attacks persist.

Coordinator Minister: Primary and Secondary Education Must Not Use Instant AI Like ChatGPT

Indonesia's Coordinator Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has unveiled a joint ministerial decision establishing guidelines for digital technology and artificial intelligence use in formal, non-formal, and informal education. The policy prohibits the use of instant AI tools such as ChatGPT at primary and secondary school levels to prevent cognitive deterioration, though AI designed specifically for educational purposes such as robotics simulations remains permitted.

Middle East Conflict Heats Up as Prabowo Discusses Economic Impact on Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto met with the National Economic Council and cabinet ministers to assess potential impacts of Middle East conflict escalation on Indonesia's economy and energy stability. The government confirmed that domestic fuel and gas supplies remain adequate, whilst emphasizing the need to accelerate energy self-sufficiency programmes and strengthen economic resilience amid global uncertainty.

Safe Journey Home with Accident and Property Protection from IDR10,000

PT Asuransi Jasa Indonesia (Jasindo) has launched a specialised insurance programme ahead of the 2026 Idul Fitri exodus (mudik), offering affordable personal accident coverage starting from IDR10,000 that protects travellers across land, sea, and air transport whilst simultaneously safeguarding unoccupied homes against theft and fire damage. The initiative aims to provide financial security during the nation's peak mobility period and promote greater public awareness of risk management and insurance instruments.

Prabowo Meets Luhut to Discuss Impacts of US-Israel-Iran Conflict

President Prabowo Subianto met with the Head of the National Economic Council (DEN) Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan on 11 March 2026 to discuss the economic implications of escalating Middle Eastern conflict on Indonesia and the global economy. The government assured that domestic fuel and energy supplies remain sufficient and pledged to monitor global energy price developments whilst implementing mitigation measures. The President emphasised accelerating energy self-sufficiency and strengthening government digitalisation to enhance economic resilience amid global uncertainty.

House Speaker Calls for Mitigation Measures for 2026 Hajj Amid Middle East Conflict

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has urged the government, particularly the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, to implement mitigation strategies for the 2026 hajj pilgrimage given escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following US-Israel strikes on Iran. The Ministry confirmed that preparations remain on schedule, with Saudi coordination proceeding smoothly, whilst contingency plans are being developed for potential worst-case scenarios.

OJK issues regulation to provide legal certainty for PVL representative offices

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued Regulation No. 41/2025 to provide legal certainty for representative offices of foreign-based financing institutions, venture capital companies, and other financial services providers (PVL). The regulation establishes a formal channel for foreign financial companies to conduct marketing, information exchange, and business coordination with Indonesian partners and clients, whilst ensuring oversight remains prudent, transparent, and accountable.

DPR Speaker Calls for Commission Meeting with Ministers to Prevent Mudik Ticket Price Hikes

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has requested that relevant parliamentary commissions convene working meetings with government ministries to prevent the anticipated rise in transport ticket prices for Mudik (homecoming) ahead of Eid al-Fitr 2026. Beyond ensuring affordable fares, Puan emphasised the need to guarantee safety, comfort, and prevent increases in the price of essential goods to enable Indonesians to celebrate Eid properly.

Meta Blocks 150,000 Accounts in Southeast Asian Scam Network, 21 Perpetrators Arrested

Meta has blocked 150,000 accounts linked to a fraudulent scam network operating across Southeast Asia, with 21 perpetrators arrested in a joint international law enforcement operation. The criminal network, primarily operating from Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos, employs sophisticated tactics including romantic scams and fake cryptocurrency investments across multiple languages. Meta has introduced new warning features to help users identify suspicious accounts and prevent fraud.

Gold Price Surged 64 Per Cent Last Year; What Are 2026 Projections?

Gold prices surged 64 per cent throughout 2025, reaching 53 all-time highs, driven by monetary easing from the US Federal Reserve and geopolitical tensions across multiple regions. Central banks globally purchased approximately 863 tonnes of gold in 2025, reinforcing its status as a safe-haven asset amidst global economic uncertainty and volatility.

Indonesia's Diesel Fuel Consumption Expected to Plunge 14.5% During Eid Travel Season

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources forecasts that diesel fuel (gasoil) consumption in Indonesia will decline by 14.5% during the Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 2026 travel season, whilst petrol consumption is expected to rise by 12%. The government has mobilised over 7,800 fuel stations and multiple terminals to ensure stable fuel supplies across the country during the peak travel period.

KPK Confirms Summons to Former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Complies with Regulations

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that summons issued to former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas as a suspect in a 2024 pilgrimage quota corruption case comply with legal regulations. Yaqut was scheduled for questioning on 12 March 2026 at KPK headquarters, despite his attorney raising concerns about the timing of the summons during ongoing pre-trial proceedings.

Prabowo meets with National Economic Council to ensure secure fuel and gas supply

President Prabowo Subianto met with the National Economic Council (DEN) and relevant ministers to discuss economic developments and confirm that Indonesia's fuel and gas supplies are currently adequate. The government plans to monitor global energy price movements, accelerate energy self-sufficiency programmes, and implement mitigation measures to protect the state budget from volatility.

Testimony of Former Merak Fuel Terminal Owner Interviewed by Riza Chalid

Danny Subrata, former director of PT Oiltanking Merak (2006-2014), testified in a corruption trial that he was interviewed by businessman Mohamad Riza Chalid around 2013, shortly before Riza Chalid's son Muhamad Kerry Adrianto Riza acquired the terminal. Subrata stated the meeting was not a business discussion but rather an interview-style conversation where Riza Chalid asked about his background, and that Riza Chalid did not explain his role or intentions regarding the acquisition.

Post-Flood Sanitation Recovery in Sumatra: 81 Per Cent of Washing and Toilet Facilities Completed

Indonesia's Task Force for Accelerated Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) has completed 208 of 257 planned washing, toilet and bathing facilities (MCK) across Sumatra's flood-affected regions, representing 81 per cent completion as of 11 March. North Sumatra leads recovery efforts with 92 per cent completion (128 of 139 units), whilst West Sumatra faces challenges with only 56.5 per cent completion (26 of 46 units), hampered by damaged water supply networks requiring concurrent infrastructure repairs.

Ex-Religion Minister Yaqut's Legal Team Verifies Summons Allegedly Issued During Pre-Trial Proceedings

The legal team of former Religion Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas is verifying a summons from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) regarding allegations of corruption in the 2023-2024 pilgrimage quota scheme, questioning whether it was issued whilst pre-trial proceedings were still ongoing. Yaqut is scheduled to be examined as a suspect on 12 March 2026 at KPK headquarters, marking his first interrogation in suspect status. The legal team has raised concerns about the timing of the 6 March 2026 summons and has coordinated with the KPK for clarification.

Halal Certification Enables Industry to Expand Global Market Access

Indonesia's Minister of Industry has highlighted the significant opportunity for domestic manufacturers to expand into global halal markets, which are valued at over US$3 trillion annually. The Ministry of Industry will accelerate halal certification processes and provide support to small and medium-sized enterprises, positioning Indonesia as a potential leader in the global halal supply chain whilst boosting domestic economic growth.

Wuling Exion EV & PHEV: Check Out the Promotions in Jakarta

Wuling Motors is hosting a "Tenang Bersama Wuling" (Feel Secure with Wuling) exhibition from 11โ€“15 March 2026 at two locations in Jakarta and Bekasi, showcasing its electric and hybrid vehicle lineup including the Air EV, Binguo EV, Cloud EV, Darion, Alvez, and Almaz RS Hybrid. The event features test drive facilities and competitive sales promotions including down payments from 8 million rupiah, free insurance on the Darion EV for two years, lifetime warranty on major EV/HEV/PHEV components, and extensive free maintenance programmes lasting up to 10 years.

Copyright Bill to Regulate Royalties for Journalistic Works

The House of Representatives is pursuing a revision to the Copyright Law that would establish exclusive protections and royalty requirements for journalistic works. Bob Hasan, chair of the House Legislative Body, stated that journalistic content cannot be arbitrarily reproduced or distributed without permission and compensation, similar to protections afforded to music and other creative works. The House has targeted passage of the revised Copyright Bill this year alongside the Domestic Workers Protection Bill.