Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 March 2026

Showing 1,901-1,950 of 2,022 articles

Pertamina Deploys Mobile Fuel Units and Tanker Trucks Along Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has mobilised fuel distribution resources, including mobile modular units and tanker trucks, along the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road ahead of the Lebaran exodus period to manage expected traffic surges at rest stops. The company has ensured adequate fuel stockpiles at key rest areas, with additional services and complementary facilities provided to travellers to ensure safe and uninterrupted fuel distribution during the peak holiday travel period.

Bank Jakarta Distributes Employee Zakat Funds to Thousands of Orphans

Bank Jakarta has distributed IDR 1.7 billion in assistance from employee zakat and charitable contributions to 8,500 orphans and underprivileged children across Jakarta during the Ramadan 1447 H / 2026 M programme. The distribution, organised through the bank's Zakat Management Unit, was conducted symbolically during an iftar gathering at the bank's headquarters, with funds channelled through orphan care foundations and shelters across Jakarta's administrative districts.

Student at Islamic Primary School in Majalengka Complains About Free Nutrition Programme Menu, SPPG Provides Clarification

A video of a student at MI PUI Desa Cipeundeuy in Majalengka's Bantarujeg District complaining that his free nutrition meal (MBG) consisted only of roasted sweet potato went viral on social media, prompting widespread public concern. The Nutrition Service Coordination Unit (SPPG) clarified that the incident resulted from a distribution error, as the student had only collected one of two food containers before leaving school early due to a simultaneous charity distribution event, though the remaining meal was subsequently delivered.

Rismon Apologises to Jokowi, Presents Ulos and Arsik

Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar met with former President Joko Widodo at his residence in Solo to apologise regarding his previous allegations about forged credentials and presented traditional Batak gifts including ulos cloth and arsik fish dish as a peace offering. Rismon claimed that further research has found no evidence of digital manipulation in Jokowi's credentials, contradicting his earlier conclusions in a white paper.

Apology to Jokowi: Rismon Presents Ulos Cloth and Na Niarsik Delicacy

Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar visited former President Joko Widodo at his residence in Solo to apologise regarding his earlier allegations of certificate forgery and presented traditional Batak gifts including ulos cloth and na niarsik (smoked fish) as a gesture of respect and reconciliation. Rismon announced that further research has found no evidence of digital manipulation in Jokowi's credentials, vindicating the authenticity of his educational certificates.

Palembang-Betung Toll Road Kramasan-Pangkalan Balai Section Operationalised to Support Eid Exodus 2026

PT Hutama Karya will operationalise the Palembang-Betung toll road's Kramasan-Pangkalan Balai section from 13-29 March 2026 to facilitate the Eid exodus period, improving traffic flow and road safety. The section will operate daily from 07:00 to 17:00 Western Indonesia Time (WIT), initially restricted to Class I vehicles (excluding buses) with a maximum speed limit of 50 km/h and intensive police oversight to ensure driver safety.

Earthquake of Magnitude 4 Shakes North Sumatra

A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck 104 kilometres southwest of South Nias, North Sumatra, on Friday, 13 March 2026 at 03:11 WIB with a depth of 28 kilometres. The Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) reported no initial damage or casualties, though data processing remained preliminary.

Jakarta's Odd-Even Vehicle Ban Suspended During Eid Holiday 2026

The Jakarta Provincial Government has announced a temporary suspension of the odd-even vehicle licence plate restriction system during the Eid al-Fitr holiday period from 18 to 24 March 2026. The policy aims to facilitate public mobility during the extended national holiday period, which coincides with the Hindu Nyepi celebration, and aligns with Jakarta Governor Regulation No. 88 of 2019 which exempts national holidays from the odd-even traffic restriction scheme.

Suspect in Counterfeit Diploma Case Apologises to Jokowi in Solo

Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar, the suspect in a counterfeit diploma case, visited former Indonesian President Joko Widodo's residence in Solo, Central Java to apologise directly regarding a controversy surrounding research into Widodo's Gadjah Mada University diploma. After conducting further analysis of the analogue diploma document presented during legal proceedings, Rismon retracted his earlier findings, concluding that the absence of a hologram on the diploma was consistent with UGM's security practices at that time, which relied only on watermarks and embossing.

GAC Launches Vehicle Monitoring Application to Support Lebaran Homecoming Journey

GAC Indonesia has officially launched the GAC Apps application for Hyptec and Aion vehicle owners, enabling them to monitor vehicle status, access emergency services, and connect with authorised dealers during travel. In conjunction with the 2026 Lebaran homecoming season, GAC is also providing 24-hour emergency repair workshops and roadside assistance posts at key rest areas along major travel routes to ensure customer safety and comfort.

Oil Price Surge Again, World Awaits Two Critical Updates from America

Oil prices have surged sharply following Iran's new leadership declaring the Strait of Hormuz must remain closed as a pressure tactic, with WTI crude rising 9.72% to $95.73 per barrel and Brent jumping 9.22% to $100.46—its first close above $100 since August 2022. The geopolitical tension has triggered a global market selloff, including a 1.56% decline in the Dow Jones and a 0.12% weakening of the Indonesian rupiah, whilst the market awaits critical US economic data on PCE inflation and employment figures that could influence Federal Reserve policy and energy costs.

Ride-hailing Crisis: Drivers Admit to Selective Order Acceptance and Logging Off

Ride-hailing drivers in Jakarta are increasingly selective about accepting orders and logging off applications due to discounted fare programmes that do not adequately compensate for travel distances and traffic congestion. Drivers reveal they reject orders with long pickup distances, particularly during peak hours and bad weather, as fare estimates of as little as IDR 10,000 do not justify the time and fuel costs, contributing to customer complaints about difficulty finding available drivers.

Peak Exodus on Pejagan-Pemalang Toll Road Predicted for 18 March, One-Way Schedule Announced

The Pejagan-Pemalang toll road management has implemented a one-way traffic scheme ahead of the 2026 Eid exodus, with peak congestion anticipated on Wednesday, 18 March. The toll operator projects 1.173 million vehicles will traverse the route during the exodus season, a 1.73% increase compared to the previous year, and has coordinated intensively with police to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Prabowo's Plans to Protect Increasingly Threatened Elephants

President Prabowo Subianto is implementing measures to prevent the extinction of Sumatran and Bornean elephants, whose habitats have drastically declined from 42 pockets to just 21. The government will establish preservation areas and wildlife corridors through a Presidential Instruction to prevent genetic inbreeding, disease, and local extinction of these iconic species.

Body of Indramayu fisherman found in Jepara waters after vessel sinks in collision with barge

A 23-year-old fisherman named Ari Wibowo from Indramayu, who went missing after the KM Almujib sank following a collision with a barge near Biawak Island, has been found dead in waters off Jepara, Central Java. Wibowo was one of four crew members declared missing after the incident, with his body identified by family members through distinctive physical markings including a tattoo on his left hand and a bracelet on his right wrist.

Government's Fiscal Test Amid Iran War, Weighed Down by Subsidy Burden and Inflation Control

Indonesia's fiscal position faces significant pressure from escalating Middle East tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, which threaten to drive up global oil prices and strain the government's budget through energy subsidies. According to Prasasti Center for Policy Studies, if average oil prices reach $92 per barrel, Indonesia's budget deficit could widen to 3.6–3.7 per cent of GDP, exceeding the government's 3 per cent fiscal discipline threshold. The government faces difficult policy choices: maintaining domestic fuel prices through subsidies would increase budget pressure, whilst allowing prices to rise with market mechanisms could directly impact inflation and public purchasing power.

Chinese Humanoid Robots Advance to New Level, Now Capable of Dancing, Kung Fu, and Acrobatics with Fluidity

Chinese humanoid robots have demonstrated significant technological advances, performing complex movements including sword dancing, kung fu, and acrobatics at the CCTV Spring Festival Gala. Created by four Chinese robotics companies—Unitree Robotics, Galbot, Noetix, and MagicLab—these robots showcased fluid, natural movements that overcome previous limitations in dynamic motion control. The development, whilst displayed as entertainment, is primarily directed towards industrial and manufacturing applications, where smooth motion control and multi-robot coordination are essential for factory and logistics operations.

Indonesian Ambassador in Washington Gives Full Support to Indonesian-American Games 2026 Initiative by Young Diaspora

Indonesia's diplomatic representatives in the United States have expressed full support for the inaugural Indonesian-American Games 2026, a sporting initiative spearheaded by young members of the Indonesian diaspora, scheduled to take place in Chicago in June 2026. The Ambassador to the United States, Dwisuryo Indroyono Soesilo, and the Consul General in Chicago emphasised the event's potential to strengthen community ties and Indonesian national identity among diaspora members across 50 US states. The Games, featuring more than eight sports and expected to attract hundreds of participants, represent a positive youth-driven initiative to foster solidarity and uncover athletic talent within the Indonesian diaspora community.

History of Purwomartani, a Sub-District in Yogyakarta that Became a Toll Gate Location

Purwomartani, a sub-district in Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta, has gained public prominence as the location of an important toll gate on the Solo-Yogyakarta-NYIA Kulonprogo expressway. The area's name originates from its historical agricultural landscape and a forest known as "Wono Martani," formally established in 1949 during administrative restructuring of local government. The Purwomartani toll gate distinctly incorporates Javanese script (Hanacaraka) alongside Latin lettering, reflecting Yogyakarta's commitment to preserving cultural identity within modern infrastructure development.

Corruption Commission to Question Gus Alex as Suspect in Hajj Quota Case Next Week

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas over allegations of misappropriating hajj pilgrimage quotas for 2023-2024, and will question his special staff Ishfah Abidal Aziz (Gus Alex) as a suspect next week. Gus Alex is accused of assisting Yaqut in distributing unauthorised additional hajj quotas and requesting fees from hajj organisers that were allegedly shared between the minister and himself. Yaqut maintains his innocence, claiming he received no money and acted solely in the interests of Indonesian pilgrims.

Free Eid Mudik Registration Reopens in 2026 with 300 Quotas Today

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation's Directorate General of Land Transportation (Ditjen Hubdat) has reopened registration for free Eid mudik (homecoming) travel on 13 March 2026, offering 308 additional quotas to citizens who missed previous registration periods. The registration will open at 14:00 WIB, with specific allocations across various departure terminals, and the directorate is also providing free return journey quotas for those holding valid outbound tickets from the same departure city.

Jasa Marga Offers 30 Percent Toll Discount on Nine Toll Routes

PT Jasa Marga will implement a 30 percent toll tariff discount for four days across nine toll routes during Eid 2026, applicable to continuous journey users who pay via electronic toll cards. The discount aims to distribute traffic more evenly and encourage early travel during the mudik (homebound) and balik (return) periods, with specific pricing reductions detailed for routes including Cikampek-Kalikangkung, Pangkalan Brandan-Sinaksak, and Kalihurip-Cisumdawu.

Rice Stocks in West Java Reach 592,795 Tonnes; Public Urged Not to Panic Buy

State-owned enterprise Perum Bulog has assured the public of adequate supplies of essential food commodities, particularly rice and cooking oil, stating that current stocks are sufficient to meet demand until the end of the year. West Java's warehouse holds approximately 592,795 tonnes of rice equivalent, with national government rice reserves reaching 3.74 million tonnes and projected to increase to between 4.5 and 5 million tonnes by the end of March as the harvest season begins.

Badung Transport Agency Unveils Traffic Management Scheme During Melasti Ceremony in Kerobokan

The Badung Transport Agency (Dishub) has announced a comprehensive traffic management scheme for the Kerobokan area during the Hindu Melasti processions scheduled for 15-17 March 2026, which will culminate in Nyepi celebrations. The plan includes one-way traffic flow adjustments and contraflow systems at key intersections such as Simpang Semer, with authorities urging residents to comply with officer directions and use alternative routes during the specified times. Police and local authorities will deploy 73 personnel across multiple locations, coordinating with local security organisations (pecalang) to ensure the safety and smooth flow of the ceremonial processions to various beaches in Badung.

Indonesia Exchange Outlines Scheme for Listed Companies to Meet 15 Percent Free Float Requirement

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) is implementing capital market reforms requiring listed companies to increase their minimum free float to 15 percent of shares held by the public. The exchange will guide companies through various corporate actions including share divestment by controlling shareholders, rights issues, and other mechanisms to boost public shareholding as part of broader market quality improvements coordinated with the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

Reduce National Plastic Waste, Packaging Innovation and Waste Banks Become Industry Strategy

Indonesia's plastic waste generation is projected to reach 9.9–12.4 million tonnes annually by 2025, prompting industries to accelerate plastic reduction strategies through packaging innovation and waste management systems to meet the government's 30 per cent reduction target by 2029–2030. Ajinomoto Indonesia has implemented multiple packaging innovations including mono-material packaging, recycled materials, and plastic-to-paper substitutions, achieving a total reduction of 1,736 tonnes of plastic usage in 2025. The company's Ajinomoto Health Provider programme combines packaging innovation, community-based waste management, and environmental education to support Indonesia's national plastic reduction objectives.

JK Assesses Indonesia's Exit from Board of Peace as Non-Issue

Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla has stated that Indonesia withdrawing from the Board of Peace (BoP), established by US President Donald Trump, would not be problematic, citing a US Supreme Court ruling capping reciprocal tariffs at 15 per cent. Kalla questioned the BoP's effectiveness as a peace mechanism given the US's military actions against Iran mere weeks after the initiative's launch in February, suggesting the board risks becoming a "Board of War" rather than achieving genuine reconciliation in Palestine. Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has suspended discussions on the BoP amid escalating US-Iran-Israel tensions in the Middle East, prioritising the safety of Indonesian citizens in the region.

Researcher Admits Flawed Diploma Verification Study, Apologises to Jokowi

Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar, an independent researcher, has apologised to President Joko Widodo and corrected his findings after conducting follow-up research on the authenticity of Jokowi's diploma. Rismon's original conclusions, published in his book "Jokowi's White Paper", have been refuted by his subsequent investigation using proper geometric operations and lighting adjustments, which confirmed the diploma's authenticity and found no evidence of digital manipulation.

NasDem Demands Government Reduce Tax on Medical Devices and Medicines Due to High Treatment Costs

The NasDem Party has called on the Indonesian government to reduce taxes on medical devices and medicines to lower treatment costs, which are reportedly 3-5 times higher than in neighbouring Malaysia. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has signed a cooperation agreement with the anti-corruption commission (KPK) to investigate suspected systemic corruption in the healthcare sector as a potential cause of inflated drug prices.

China's "Artificial Intelligence Arsenal": What the West Should Fear

China has developed a sophisticated artificial intelligence weapons capability that goes beyond merely copying Western technology, according to research from Georgetown University's Center for Security and Emerging Technology. Through its "civil-military integration" strategy, Beijing forces major tech companies such as Baidu, Tencent, and Alibaba to share their latest AI innovations with the People's Liberation Army, rapidly converting commercial technologies into military applications including autonomous drone swarms. This represents a fundamental shift in how China weaponises AI for geopolitical and military supremacy, presenting a significant strategic challenge to Western defence capabilities.

Alert Status 1 Under Scrutiny as Defence Minister and TNI Commander Provide Clarification

Indonesia's military (TNI) commander General Agus Subiyanto and Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin have clarified the implementation of Alert Status 1 across TNI ranks amid public concerns and criticism from civil society groups and lawmakers. Critics have questioned whether the alert status violates the Indonesian Constitution, particularly given tensions in the Middle East following US and Israeli strikes against Iran, though the military leadership characterises the measure as routine protocol for military readiness and disaster response operations.

15-17 March 2026: Cipali Toll Road Rates Discounted 30 Per Cent During Mudik and Return Migration

Astra Infra is offering a 30 per cent toll rate discount on the Cikopo-Palimanan (Cipali) and Tangerang-Merak toll roads during the Eid al-Fitr mudik and return migration period. The discount on the Cipali toll road applies from 15-17 March 2026, whilst the Tangerang-Merak toll applies from 12-13 March 2026, as part of efforts to distribute peak migration traffic during the Ramadan holiday season.

Antam Gold Price Holds Steady at Rp3.042 Million Today (13/3) — Full Price List

Antam gold prices remained unchanged on Friday, 13 March 2026, holding at Rp3.042 million per gramme, down Rp45,000 from the previous day's opening. The precious metals are available in weights ranging from 0.5 grammes to 1 kilogramme, with purchases subject to 22 per cent income tax withholding and buyback sales above Rp10 million subject to direct tax deduction.

Man attacked and stabbed by ruffians in Tangerang Selatan sustains injuries to thigh and calf

A 27-year-old man was assaulted and stabbed by two men in Bukit Market, Tangerang Selatan, whilst defending against alleged extortion by the perpetrators. The victim sustained lacerations to his right thigh, left calf, and left foot, as well as bruising, and was admitted to hospital for treatment. The two suspects have been arrested and charged under Article 262 of Indonesia's 2023 Criminal Code for aggravated assault.

New Iranian Leader Mojtaba Khamenei Delivers Defiant First Address, Directly Challenges the United States

Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei delivered his first public address since succeeding his father, warning that all US military bases in the region must close or face attack, and pledging to maintain the Strait of Hormuz closure as pressure against regional enemies. The statement, read on state television, emphasises armed resistance and national unity whilst drawing criticism from analysts for avoiding domestic economic issues and contradicting President Masoud Pezeshkian's recent remarks about potential peace negotiations.

Foreign Investors Record Net Buy of Rp 1.01 Trillion as Jakarta Composite Index Weakens, ADRO and AADI in Focus

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) fell 0.37 per cent to 7,362.117 points on Thursday 12 March 2026, extending losses from the previous session, whilst foreign investors continued their buying spree with net purchases of Rp 1.01 trillion. Large-cap mining and banking stocks attracted the strongest foreign investor demand, led by Alamtri Resources Indonesia (ADRO) with net purchases worth Rp 209.73 billion, followed by Adaro Andalan Indonesia (AADI) at Rp 196.34 billion.

Indonesian Army Completes Construction of 218 Bridges Across Indonesia in 2.5 Months

The Indonesian Army's Land Forces (TNI AD) has completed the construction of 218 bridges across multiple regions of Indonesia in approximately 2.5 months, primarily in Aceh, West Sumatra, and North Sumatra, to restore transport access severed by geographic isolation and disaster damage. The bridge-building effort, which began as a post-disaster recovery initiative following calamities in late December 2025, involved parallel construction work across three regional military commands and round-the-clock operations by military engineers. The restoration aims to normalise mobility and accelerate economic recovery in previously isolated communities.

Residents Flood Out of Homes as 5.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Sukabumi

A 5.4 magnitude earthquake struck 115 kilometres southwest of Sukabumi, West Java, on Friday morning at 02:18 WIB, prompting residents in Sukabumi and Cianjur to flee their homes in panic. Local authorities reported no building damage or casualties as of the time of reporting, though residents experienced strong tremors lasting approximately five seconds and feared potential aftershocks and tsunamis.

Restructuring the Foundation Towards Impactful Education

Indonesia's basic and secondary education system faces significant challenges despite achieving high quantitative participation rates, with persistent quality gaps between urban and rural areas and low literacy/numeracy outcomes compared to OECD standards. The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is implementing strategic programmes focused on quality and inclusive education, addressing structural barriers including socio-economic inequality, teacher distribution disparities, out-of-school children, and the need to align education with future workforce demands. These efforts aim to move beyond mere access to ensure all children receive quality education regardless of their socio-economic or geographic background.

Double Standards from All Sides: Lessons from Iran and Ukraine

The article examines how major powers apply international law and sovereignty principles inconsistently across different geopolitical contexts, citing US-Israeli military action against Iran and Russian aggression in Ukraine as case studies. It warns that selective application of international norms by all parties—not just one bloc—undermines global trust in shared rules and creates dangerous precedents for military intervention under humanitarian or democratic pretexts. Indonesia is encouraged to strengthen its advocacy for consistent international law enforcement rather than relying on performative neutrality amid deepening great power rivalry.

Oil Prices Rise Again: What Does This Mean for the Jakarta Stock Exchange Today?

The Jakarta Stock Exchange (IHSG) is expected to trade consolidatively on Friday 13 March 2026, with support at 7,300 and resistance at 7,420, following a 0.37 per cent decline to 7,362.117 the previous day. Market analysts cite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East driving crude oil price increases, which could dampen sentiment, though foreign investor inflows remain positive with net buying of approximately 905 billion rupiah supporting valuations. Key stocks under analyst observation include BBCA, ADRO, and SCMA, with potential technical upside supported by commodity prospects and sector sentiment improvements.

Indonesia's New Biodiesel Blend Cannot Be Immediately Implemented, Producers Reveal Reasons

Indonesia's plan to increase biodiesel blending to B50 by the second half of 2026 cannot be immediately implemented without significant preparatory work, according to the Biofuel Producers Association (Aprobi). The association cited regulatory changes, incomplete technical road testing (currently 30,000 km versus the required 50,000 km minimum), and insufficient production capacity (17.6 million kilolitres against a requirement of 19.5 million) as key obstacles. Additional investment in biodiesel production capacity and fuel distribution infrastructure coordination with Pertamina are also necessary for successful long-term implementation.

Another Drug-Involved Police Officer Receives Payments from Dealer; Criminal Proceedings Awaited

Two officers from the North Toraja Police—Satresnarkoba Head AKP Arifan Efendi and Deputy Head Aiptu N.—have been dismissed with dishonour following their involvement in receiving direct payments of Rp10 million per week from drug dealer Evanolya Tandipali (alias Oliv) since October 2025. The case marks the fifth instance of police officers being caught in narcotics crimes, with the National Police Commission emphasising the need for systematic anti-corruption efforts within the institution rather than isolated case-by-case approaches.

Between Cultural and Spiritual Homecoming

The article explores mudik (homecoming), the Indonesian cultural and spiritual phenomenon during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, where an estimated 143.91 million people travel to their hometowns. It examines both the cultural dimensions of mudik—reconnecting with family, practising generosity, and reviving childhood memories—and its spiritual significance as a metaphorical return to divine forgiveness and increased piety in Islamic teaching.

Lebaran Exodus 2026: Pelni Offers 30 Per Cent Discount on Ship Tickets from Kalimantan to Central Java

PT Pelni, the state-owned shipping company, is offering a 30 per cent discount on economy-class tickets for the 2026 Lebaran exodus from Kalimantan to Central Java, expecting only modest growth of approximately 3 per cent compared to 2025. The company has deployed five vessels on routes connecting Semarang to Sampit, Kumai, and Pontianak during the designated one-month transport period from 6 March to 6 April 2026, with passenger disembarkations already exceeding normal daily levels, and peak migration traffic anticipated on 18 March 2026.

Repentance Later Still Has Value

An opinion piece reflecting on Islamic teachings about repentance and redemption, drawing parallels between traditional proverbs about irreversible past actions and Islamic doctrine that emphasises Allah's infinite mercy and the constant opportunity for spiritual renewal before death. The article invokes a hadith about a man who killed 100 people yet was ultimately forgiven upon genuine repentance, arguing that the door to spiritual transformation remains open as long as one lives.

AirNav Indonesia Promotes MSME Empowerment and Free Homecoming Travel for Eid

AirNav Indonesia is implementing comprehensive corporate social responsibility programmes during Ramadan and leading up to Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH, focusing on both direct humanitarian aid and economic empowerment of communities. The initiatives include Safari Ramadan activities across 18 branch offices nationwide, disaster relief for flood-affected areas in Aceh, and participation in the State-Owned Enterprise Joint Homecoming Programme 2026, which will provide 4,000 free train tickets to workers travelling to four major cities.

BRI Distributes 700 Basic Food Packages to Denpasar Residents

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), a state-owned bank, distributed 700 packages of basic foodstuffs to residents of Denpasar as part of its BRI Social Activity programme during Ramadan. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Denpasar City Ministry of Religious Affairs, reflects BRI's ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and supporting vulnerable communities.

Indian restaurants and businesses face acute cooking gas shortage as Middle East tensions disrupt Strait of Hormuz supplies

Disruptions to energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, triggered by Middle East tensions, have prompted India's government to prioritise household and transport LPG supplies, leaving restaurants and small businesses facing critical shortages. The Indian restaurant industry, which comprises a 6.6 trillion rupee ecosystem and directly employs 8 million people, warns that 50-60 per cent of outlets could shut within days without restored commercial LPG access. The crisis exposes India's vulnerability to supply chain disruptions and raises questions about long-term energy security and diversification from Middle Eastern energy routes.

Five New Financial Services Authority Board Members Appointed as Series of Challenges Awaits

Five newly appointed members of Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) board face multiple regulatory priorities, including capital market integrity reforms, banking sector oversight, and restoration of market confidence following recent financial market volatility. The head economist of Bank Permata has highlighted the urgent need for transparent, decisive regulatory leadership to strengthen market credibility through improved equity ownership disclosure, investor classification, and enhanced banking asset quality monitoring.