Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 April 2026

Showing 901-950 of 1,637 articles

1997/98 Crisis: How Difficult Was It to Save the Rupiah from the 17,000 Level?

The Indonesian rupiah has recently breached the psychologically significant level of Rp17,000 per US dollar, evoking memories of the severe 1997/98 Asian financial crisis when the currency depreciated dramatically from Rp2,361 to over Rp15,000, leading to widespread economic turmoil including capital outflows, soaring inflation, and a sharp decline in investment. During the crisis, the government and Bank Indonesia responded with integrated policies, including tight monetary measures such as currency interventions, liquidity restrictions, and raising interest rates to 30%, alongside cautious fiscal policies to curb public spending and stabilise the economy. This historical lesson underscores the need for swift, measured, and consistent responses today to prevent current rupiah weakness from escalating into a deeper crisis, highlighting vulnerabilities in external sectors and international financial linkages.

Legislator urges DKI Citata Agency not to act hastily in regulating padel courts

A Jakarta DPRD legislator from the NasDem faction has called on the DKI Citata Agency and local officials to avoid hasty measures in regulating padel courts, noting that only a few of the approximately 450 courts in the city are problematic and that technical rules like 160-metre setbacks from residential areas are unrealistic given Jakarta's land constraints. He proposes proportional solutions such as restricting operating hours if community approval and parking facilities are in place, while highlighting the positive impact of padel on youth by diverting them from negative behaviours. The regulations, approved by Governor Pramono Anung, include limits on operating hours until 8 PM in residential zones, bans on construction in housing areas, prior permits from the Youth and Sports Agency, mandatory parking, and building permits.

Danantara assures support for PSEL development project in Jambi City

The Danantara investment management agency has pledged its support for the construction of a Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facility in Jambi City, with the project slated for tender in April to May 2026 and groundbreaking in the same year. The initiative, prioritised nationally, aims to process 1,000 tonnes of waste daily to generate electricity and includes supporting facilities like ash processing plants and green zones, addressing the city's current waste supply shortfall of around 450 tonnes per day through regional cooperation. This project follows President Prabowo Subianto's directives to tackle waste emergencies and produce renewable energy.

KCIC Condemns Passenger for Holding Whoosh Train Doors, Causing Journey Delays

Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) has condemned a passenger's action of holding open the doors of the Whoosh high-speed train at Padalarang Station on Tuesday, which delayed the Padalarang-Halim route by two minutes as the individual retrieved a forgotten item from the platform. KCIC's General Manager for Corporate Secretary, Eva Chairunisa, emphasised that such behaviour disrupts the automatic door system, violates safety rules, and risks long-term damage to the infrastructure, affecting hundreds of other passengers. This incident underscores the importance of adhering to protocols on Indonesia's advanced rail network to ensure operational efficiency and safety.

Iran Insists on Rejecting Restrictions on Its Uranium Enrichment

Iran's nuclear energy agency has firmly rejected any limitations on its uranium enrichment programme, dismissing demands from the United States and Israel as unattainable wishes. This stance comes amid upcoming US-Iran negotiations mediated by Pakistan, following recent conflicts including a 12-day war in June 2025 where US-Israeli strikes targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, though the fate of highly enriched uranium stockpiles remains uncertain. The ongoing dispute highlights persistent tensions over Iran's nuclear ambitions, with Tehran insisting its programme is for civilian purposes despite Western accusations of weapon development.

New Ombudsman Chairman and Members Take Oath Before Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the oath-taking ceremony for nine new members of the Indonesian Ombudsman for the 2026-2031 term at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. The appointees, selected after a fit and proper test by the DPR's Commission II, include Chairman Hery Susanto and Deputy Chairman Rahmadi Indra Tektona, among others, who pledged to uphold Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, and public service oversight duties. This appointment strengthens the institution's role in monitoring public services provided by government entities, state-owned enterprises, and private bodies funded by state budgets, ensuring accountability and integrity in governance.

Government Accelerates Waste-to-Energy Project in East Kalimantan

The Indonesian government, led by Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, is hastening the preparation of waste-to-energy (PSEL) projects in East Kalimantan, focusing on the Samarinda Raya and Balikpapan Raya agglomerations, as part of a national push to meet 2026 waste management targets. Current national waste handling stands at only 26%, far below the 63.41% goal, prompting urgent measures like ending open dumping practices and promoting source separation, with initial project foundations targeted for completion by early next week before procurement begins. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to sustainable infrastructure development, involving coordination with local leaders and an estimated three-year timeline from procurement to operation.

BCA Director Urges Students to Prepare for the Working World in the Global Era

BCA Director Haryanto T Budiman encouraged young people, particularly students, to develop strong character and firm principles to navigate challenging times during a public lecture at Bina Nusantara University in Jakarta. The event, themed “From Lecture Hall to Real World: Thriving in a Turbulent Era,” underscores BCA's commitment to enhancing education and preparing superior human resources for Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045. Additionally, BCA promoted its Genera-Z Berbakti programme, offering funding and mentorship for students to implement community projects in BCA's adopted villages.

Tokocrypto Partners with BRI and Mandiri to Boost Transactions

Tokocrypto has partnered with BRI and Bank Mandiri to introduce new deposit channels on its platform, aiming to simplify access and stimulate transaction activity amid a weakening cryptocurrency market. This move comes as Indonesia's crypto transaction value dropped to Rp24.33 trillion in February 2026 from Rp29.28 trillion in January, influenced by global economic dynamics and geopolitical tensions. With 21.07 million crypto consumers in Indonesia and Tokocrypto's own 4.8 million users generating Rp160 trillion in 2025 transactions, the company remains optimistic about recovery in Q2 2026, supported by educational initiatives like the Crypto Literacy Month.

Indonesia's PHE targets 595,000 bpd oil output in 2026

Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE), a subsidiary of Indonesia's state-owned energy firm, has set an ambitious target of 595,000 barrels per day (bpd) for oil production in 2026, comprising domestic, overseas, and M&A contributions, alongside 2.81 billion standard cubic feet per day (BSCFD) of gas. To counter steep decline rates in mature fields, PHE plans to revitalise assets, implement Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) technologies, drill exploration wells, and pursue mergers and acquisitions, while also adopting carbon capture solutions. This strategy builds on 2025 achievements, including significant resource discoveries and proven reserves, underscoring Indonesia's efforts to bolster energy security and production amid global challenges.

DPR Member Extorted Rp300 Million by Fake KPK Employees

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Ahmad Sahroni, reported being extorted for approximately Rp300 million by four individuals posing as KPK officials to the Metro Jaya Police. The suspects were arrested in West Jakarta, with evidence including USD 17,400 seized, and they claimed to be acting on orders from KPK leadership to influence corruption case handling. The KPK has urged caution against such scams impersonating its staff, highlighting ongoing investigations into related threats and potential links to other reports.

HIPKA's Halal Bihalal Boosts Business Confidence, Investment, and Employment Amid Global Uncertainty

The Central Board of the KAHMI Entrepreneurs Association (BPP HIPKA) utilised its halal bihalal event in Jakarta to consolidate efforts aimed at enhancing business confidence and strengthening investments despite global economic uncertainties. Chaired by Kamrussamad, the gathering included key stakeholders such as economists, state-owned enterprise directors, parliament representatives, and Kadin Indonesia members, emphasising the role of investor trust in driving domestic and foreign investments to expand businesses and create jobs. HIPKA commended the government's responsive measures, including KSSK coordination, rupiah stabilisation, energy subsidy adjustments, local currency transactions, and industrial downstreaming, which are designed to maintain national economic stability and bolster business resilience.

KPAI Appreciates Komdigi's Determination to Push Platforms to Implement PP Tunas

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has praised the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) for its persistent efforts to ensure digital platforms comply with Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Child Protection in Electronic System Governance (PP Tunas). KPAI highlighted the dynamic challenges in the digital space, such as risky content and exploitation, emphasising the need for consistent and transparent implementation to safeguard children's development. Meta, owner of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, has aligned with the regulation by restricting access to users aged 16 and above in Indonesia, setting a positive example for other platforms.

DKI Utilises Drought Warning to Accelerate Canal Dredging

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is leveraging the BMKG's warning of a prolonged dry season to expedite canal dredging in the capital as preparation for the rainy season in September 2026. Governor Pramono Anung inspected the ongoing dredging of the West Flood Canal in the Tanah Abang area, targeting completion within one year across three segments to reduce flood risks by improving water flow to the sea. This initiative will integrate with river normalisation efforts for the Ciliwung and Krukut rivers, aiming to mitigate flooding despite challenges like tidal surges.

Head of Mampang Prapatan Transport Unit Receives Warning Letter Over JAKI Report Manipulation

The South Jakarta Transport Sub-Department has issued a stern warning to the head of the Mampang Prapatan District Transport Unit and involved staff following the manipulation of photo timestamps in a parking violation report on the Jakarta Kini (JAKI) app. The incident, involving altered dates from 25 October to 23 October 2025, has prompted an apology and commitments to enhance accuracy, integrity, and professionalism in handling public complaints. This case underscores ongoing efforts to enforce parking regulations in high-violation areas through routine operations, while emphasising the need for accountable and transparent administrative processes in Jakarta's transport governance.

Freeport focuses on safe operations amid global geopolitical situation

PT Freeport Indonesia's President Director Tony Wenas has emphasised the company's commitment to maintaining safe, sustainable mining operations despite global geopolitical tensions, including the Iran-US-Israel conflict driving up oil prices. The firm is implementing mitigation strategies to control costs from rising energy prices while prioritising recovery from a September 2025 landslide at the Grasberg Block Cave, aiming for near-full capacity by late 2026 and full production by early 2027. This focus underscores Freeport's resilience in navigating external volatilities to ensure long-term operational integrity in Indonesia's key mining sector.

Replacement Constitutional Court Justice for Anwar Usman to Take Oath Today

The replacement justice for Anwar Usman, the former Constitutional Court (MK) chief who is the brother-in-law of ex-President Joko Widodo, will be sworn in today at the State Palace in Jakarta before President Prabowo Subianto. This ceremony also includes the appointment of several other officials, such as members of the Indonesian Ombudsman and ambassadors, marking a key administrative transition. Anwar Usman's tenure ended amid controversy over an ethics violation in a ruling that enabled his nephew Gibran Rakabuming Raka to run as vice-presidential candidate in the 2024 election, highlighting ongoing concerns about judicial independence in Indonesian politics.

Scoot Launches Flights to Belitung and Pontianak from Singapore, Starting at Rp 400,000

Scoot, a low-cost carrier under the Singapore Airlines Group, is introducing new return routes from Singapore to Belitung in Bangka Belitung Islands and Pontianak in West Kalimantan, commencing in May 2026 using Embraer E190-E2 aircraft. These flights, operating twice weekly for Belitung starting 3 May 2026, aim to enhance connectivity within Indonesia and the SIA network, with one-way fares starting from S$33 (approximately Rp 400,000) for Belitung to Singapore and S$99 (Rp 1.3 million) for the reverse, while Singapore to Pontianak starts at S$129 (Rp 1.7 million). The expansion brings Scoot's total destinations to 85 across 18 countries, underscoring its commitment to affordable travel options to Indonesia's hidden tropical gems and cultural hubs.

Scandal: US First Lady Speaks Out on Being an "Victim" of Jeffrey Epstein

US First Lady Melania Trump has vehemently denied rumours linking her to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, stating she was never a victim, never introduced Donald Trump to him, and had no knowledge of his abuses. In a statement to Congress, she dismissed all related claims as lies and demanded an end to efforts to tarnish her reputation, amid the release of documents including an email she sent to Epstein's associate Ghislaine Maxwell. This rare public address highlights ongoing scrutiny of Epstein's connections to high-profile figures and their political implications.

AI and Ethical Responsibility: Lessons from the Kalisari PPSU Case

In a case of alleged documentation manipulation using AI by PPSU officers in Kalisari, Jakarta, the incident highlights the blurring lines between fact and fabrication in public service reporting. This event signals a broader crisis of trust in the digital era, where easily altered images undermine the reliability of evidence and threaten social integrity. Amid Indonesia's high internet penetration, with over 220 million users spending more than seven hours daily online, the case raises urgent questions about humanity's commitment to truth versus the temptation to conceal it through advanced technology.

Iran War Hammers Dubai Tourism, Hotels Empty with Layoffs Looming

The escalation of conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has severely impacted Dubai's tourism industry, leading to a sharp decline in international visitors from 19.59 million last year and causing widespread business disruptions. Hotel occupancy has plummeted to 15-20% of normal levels, restaurants report revenue drops of up to 80%, and employers are resorting to salary cuts of 30% to avoid mass layoffs, reminiscent of the Covid-19 crisis. The Dubai government has allocated US$272 million in support packages, but recovery hinges on the resolution of the geopolitical tensions, with potential regional losses estimated at 23-38 million tourists and up to US$56 billion in revenue.

Hacker Breaches China's Supercomputer, Missile Data Leaked

An anonymous hacking group calling itself FlamingChina claims to have breached a major Chinese government supercomputer at NSCC Tianjin, extracting around 10 petabytes of sensitive data including classified defence documents, missile schematics, and military simulations. The group has been selling samples of the stolen information via Telegram since early February and is demanding hundreds of thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency for full access. Cybersecurity experts have verified the authenticity of the samples, highlighting a potential massive breach of China's national security infrastructure that could have far-reaching implications for global cyber defence.

SP3 Yet to be Issued, Metro Police Say RJ for RJ Rismon Still in Process

The Metro Jaya Regional Police are still processing Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar's restorative justice application in the case accusing former President Joko Widodo of a fake diploma, with the suspension of investigation order (SP3) not yet issued as of Friday. Police spokesperson Kombes Budi Hermanto explained that the process involves the complainant's approval and case review meetings, and it remains ongoing without any external pressure. Rismon, who signed the RJ agreement earlier this month based on his recent research into the diploma's authenticity, emphasised that the resolution was voluntary and derived from new evidence involving geometric, lighting, and resolution variables.

Investment in Banten's ETKI SEZ projected to reach Rp18.8 trillion

Investment in Banten's Special Economic Zone for Education, Technology, and International Health (KEK ETKI) is projected to reach Rp18.8 trillion over the next 20 years, creating 13,000 jobs and highlighting the zone's rapid development in key sectors. By the end of 2025, the zone has already realised Rp1.9 trillion in investments, absorbed 836 workers, and involved 14 businesses, demonstrating its significant role in driving economic growth. Nationally, Indonesia's 25 SEZs achieved Rp82.6 trillion in investments in 2025, meeting 98% of targets and employing 88,591 workers, primarily in manufacturing.

Metro Jaya Police Have Not Yet Received Report on RJ in Pandji Pragiwaksono Case

The Metro Jaya Police stated they have not received a full report regarding the Restorative Justice (RJ) process in the case involving comedian Pandji Pragiwaksono's "Mens Rea" performance, following a dialogue between Pandji and five complainants facilitated by the police. Pandji's legal representative, Haris Azhar, emphasised the genuine intent behind the dialogue to exchange views and understand the complainants' concerns, with no immediate focus on halting the case or pursuing RJ. This development highlights efforts towards mediation in a high-profile legal complaint against the comedian, potentially influencing the trajectory of the investigation.

Prabowo Appoints Andi Rahadian as Indonesian Ambassador to Oman-Yemen

President Prabowo Subianto has appointed Andi Rahadian as the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Indonesia to the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of Yemen, based in Muscat. The inauguration ceremony, held at the State Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday (8/10/2025), included the singing of the Indonesian national anthem, the oath of office administered by Prabowo, and the signing of the appointment minutes. This appointment strengthens Indonesia's diplomatic presence in the Middle East, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations with these nations.

Victim of Extortion by 4 Fake KPK Employees Turns Out to Be Ahmad Sahroni! Rp300 Million Already Handed Over

Four individuals posing as KPK employees were arrested by a joint team from the KPK and Metro Jaya Police after allegedly extorting Rp300 million from Ahmad Sahroni, the Deputy Chairman of the DPR RI's Commission III. Sahroni reported the incident after the suspects, who claimed to influence corruption case handling and invoked KPK leaders' names, had already received the payment. The case highlights vulnerabilities in anti-corruption institutions and the risks faced by public officials from impersonation scams.

Indonesia's Largest Melamine Plant Launches in Gresik SEZ with Rp 10.2 Trillion Investment

The construction of Indonesia's first and largest melamine factory, with an annual capacity of 120,000 tonnes, has commenced in the Gresik Special Economic Zone, Jawa Timur, backed by a US$600 million investment from PT GEABH Joint Technology. This integrated project processes natural gas into liquid ammonia and further into high-value products like urea and melamine, aiming to bolster downstream industries and support key sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. Set to operate by Q2 2027, it promises job creation, economic growth in the region, and enhanced export opportunities to strengthen Indonesia's global supply chain position.

Global Geopolitical Pressures: Apindo Assesses Downstream Processing Still Hindered

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has highlighted significant bottlenecks in implementing the national downstream processing policy amid escalating global geopolitical and geo-economic pressures, including rising protectionism and supply chain fragmentation. Apindo's international relations committee chair, Rinawati Prihatiningsih, stressed the need for policy adjustments that align with global dynamics and business needs to enhance economic competitiveness and industrial resilience. She emphasised incorporating business perspectives to address domestic challenges like regulatory hurdles and infrastructure gaps, as well as external pressures affecting investment flows and Indonesia's position in global supply chains.

President Prabowo Witnesses the Oath of Office of Nine Members of the Indonesian Ombudsman at the Palace

President Prabowo Subianto attended the oath-taking ceremony for nine new members of the Indonesian Ombudsman for the 2026-2031 period at the State Palace in Jakarta. The appointments were formalised through Presidential Decree No. 20/2026, following a rigorous selection process by the DPR's Commission II, which included fit and proper tests for 18 candidates and ensured a balanced composition of incumbents, professionals, and experienced individuals. This event underscores the government's commitment to strengthening oversight institutions in line with Law No. 37/2008 on the Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia.

Prabowo Inaugurates 9 Ombudsman Members and Indonesian Ambassador to Oman Concurrently for Yemen

President Prabowo Subianto inaugurated nine members of the Ombudsman for the 2026-2031 term at the State Palace in Jakarta, based on Presidential Decree No. 20/P of 2026. The appointees include Hery Susanto as Chairman and Rahmadi Indra Tektona as Deputy Chairman, along with seven other members. Concurrently, he appointed Andi Rahadian as the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, concurrently serving Yemen and based in Muscat, as per Presidential Decree No. 31/P of 2026.

Industry Minister Diversifies Indonesia's Steel Exports, Targets Middle East Region

Indonesia's Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, is promoting the diversification of the country's steel exports to the Middle East and emerging industrial nations to mitigate risks from over-reliance on China, which accounts for over 60% of exports valued at US$17.9 billion in 2025. This strategy aims to bolster national industry resilience amid global challenges like excess production capacity and trade imbalances, with Indonesia facing a 3.7 million tonne deficit excluding ferronickel. The government is implementing measures such as trade remedies, consistent application of national standards, and accelerating green steel transformation to enhance upstream investments and downstream integration with key sectors.

Profile of Liliek Prisbawono Adi, Constitutional Court Justice Replacing Retiring Anwar Usman

Liliek Prisbawono Adi was sworn in as a Constitutional Court (MK) justice on 10 April 2026, replacing Anwar Usman who retired after 15 years of service. Born in Bojonegoro on 27 October 1966, Liliek previously served as Chief Judge of the Central Jakarta District Court and High Court Judge at the Medan High Court. His appointment follows a notable career but comes amid a 2025 bribery scandal at the Central Jakarta District Court during his tenure as chief, where several judges and officials were implicated in a corruption case involving crude palm oil export permits, though Liliek himself was not examined.

TNI Establishes Military Cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has forged military cooperation with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to bolster mutual defence in the ASEAN region. The agreement was discussed during a meeting between TNI Chief General Agus Subiyanto and his Philippine counterpart General Romeo S. Brawner Jr. at the 5th Philippines-Indonesia (Philindo) Military Cooperation Meeting in Jakarta. The collaboration includes joint military exercises, knowledge exchange on military technology, and personnel swaps for military education, aiming to enhance regional stability and strengthen bilateral ties.

Interior Minister and Housing Minister Review People's Housing Programme in Minahasa

Indonesia's Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian, alongside Housing and Settlement Areas Minister Maruarar Sirait and Central Statistics Agency Head Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti, inspected the progress of subsidised housing initiatives in North Sulawesi, particularly at Jaya Chidaatma Home Koka in Minahasa Regency. The visit underscores President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to aiding low-income communities through simplified regulations and free permitting services for building approvals and land acquisition duties, aimed at accelerating affordable housing development. Officials emphasised that these programmes not only support the underprivileged but also boost regional revenues via increased property taxes, while highlighting the spiritual value of such public service efforts.

KPK examines cigarette businessman Haji Her regarding excise administration

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned cigarette entrepreneur Khairul Umam, known as Haji Her, on 9 April 2026, as part of an ongoing investigation into excise tax procedures within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise under the Ministry of Finance. This examination follows KPK's raid on 4 February 2026, which led to the arrest and charging of six individuals, including customs officials and cargo company executives, for alleged bribery and gratification related to importing counterfeit goods, with further probes into excise corruption uncovering Rp5.19 billion in seized cash. The inquiry highlights persistent issues of corruption in Indonesia's customs and excise administration, potentially impacting the tobacco industry and public revenue.

WFH Policy for Civil Servants Implemented, Government Ensures Optimal Public Services

The Indonesian government has introduced a Work From Home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Friday to promote energy efficiency amid the Middle East conflict. Despite this measure, public services remain fully operational, with essential units such as population administration and direct service offices continuing normal operations through adjusted shift systems. This initiative balances cost-saving efforts with uninterrupted access to basic public services across various regions.

Bonus Share Distribution Sends Bank Mega Shares Soaring 20%

Shares of PT Bank Mega Tbk. surged up to 20% during the morning trading session on Friday, closing 19.37% higher at IDR 3,020 per share, driven by the ex-date for cash dividends and a significant 1:1 bonus share distribution. The bank declared IDR 2 trillion in cash dividends for the 2025 fiscal year, a 91.82% increase from the previous year, alongside bonus shares worth IDR 5.87 trillion capitalised from additional paid-in capital. This corporate action, approved at the recent annual general meeting, has boosted liquidity and attracted retail investors, contrasting with the performance of larger Indonesian banks, with MEGA shares up 84.15% year-to-date.

Deddy Sitorus Responds to Gibran on Working from IKN: If Work Partners Aren't There, What Is the DPR Supposed to Do?

DPR member Deddy Sitorus has responded to Vice President Gibran's invitation for legislators to office in the new capital Nusantara (IKN), stating that it is feasible only if executive partners like relevant ministries also relocate there to enable effective functioning of parliamentary commissions. He highlighted that while executive buildings are complete, legislative and judicial infrastructure remains unfinished, urging Gibran to first encourage ministries to move in order to avoid waste and ensure the site is used for actual work rather than seclusion. This exchange underscores ongoing efforts to operationalise IKN as Indonesia's political capital by 2028, promoting coordination among government branches.

DPR Member Extorted Rp 300 Million by Fake KPK Employees Turns Out to Be Ahmad Sahroni

Police in Jakarta arrested four individuals posing as Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) employees for allegedly extorting Rp 300 million from Ahmad Sahroni, Deputy Chairman of the DPR's Commission III. Sahroni reported the incident after the suspects demanded the money under the pretext of handling a case, prompting coordination between police and the real KPK to investigate further. This case highlights vulnerabilities in impersonating law enforcement to exploit public officials and may lead to deeper probes into similar scams.

Prabowo witnesses Liliek Prisbawono's oath as Constitutional Court Justice

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the oath-taking ceremony of Liliek Prisbawono Adi as a new Justice of the Constitutional Court at the State Palace in Jakarta. The appointment, based on Presidential Decree No. 36P of 2026, replaces retiring Justice Anwar Usman and was proposed by the Supreme Court. Liliek, a senior judge from the Medan High Court with a long career in the judiciary, pledged to uphold the 1945 Constitution faithfully in the presence of high-ranking officials including Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and several ministers.

JK Reports Rismon over Allegations of Funding Diploma Case, Jokowi Responds

Former Vice President Jusuf Kalla has reported Rismon Sianipar to the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency over accusations that Kalla funded a Rp 50 billion effort to challenge President Joko Widodo's diploma authenticity. President Jokowi has expressed support for Kalla's decision to pursue legal action, emphasising the importance of letting the legal process unfold without speculation. This development highlights ongoing political tensions surrounding the diploma controversy involving high-profile figures in Indonesian politics.

Crypto Asset Education Event with OJK: CFX Crypto Exchange Hopes for Industry Growth...

PT Central Finansial X (CFX), Indonesia's pioneering licensed and OJK-supervised crypto exchange, has launched CFX Connect to boost literacy on digital financial assets among young Indonesians, who dominate ownership according to a 2025 UI study. The inaugural 2026 event at Universitas Indonesia, themed around building trust through regulation, market infrastructure, and youth literacy, featured OJK officials, academics, and industry experts discussing risks and consumer protection to prevent speculative excesses. Accompanied by the CFX Lab competition, this initiative aims to foster a secure, transparent ecosystem, potentially establishing UI as a hub for crypto innovation.

Trump urges Iran to stop collecting tanker transit fees in Hormuz

US President Donald Trump has called on Iran to cease imposing transit fees on oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway carrying about 20 per cent of global oil supplies. Trump suggested a potential joint venture between the US and Iran to collect such fees instead, describing it as a "beautiful" opportunity that could yield significant profits by alleviating traffic congestion. Reports indicate Iran is charging $1 per barrel, though maritime traffic remains low following a recent ceasefire, with only two non-Iranian tankers detected crossing the strait.

Hutama Karya begins preparing environmental impact analysis for Sicincin-Bukittinggi toll road

PT Hutama Karya has initiated preparations for the environmental impact analysis (AMDAL) document as part of advancing the national strategic project of the Padang-Pekanbaru toll road, specifically the Sicincin-Bukittinggi section in West Sumatra. The company's CEO emphasised the urgency of accelerating the project to avoid cost escalations and maximise societal benefits, while calling for clear timelines and stakeholder accountability. Authorities, including the West Sumatra High Prosecutor's Office and Bappenas, stressed the importance of on-target execution, budget adherence, quality standards, community protection during land acquisition, and enhanced communication with local indigenous groups to ensure equitable development.

Between Schools of Thought and Sectarianism

In the midst of escalating geopolitical tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran, discussions in Indonesian coffee shops and WhatsApp groups have reignited longstanding Sunni-Shia divides, with each side levelling familiar theological accusations. Amid this noise, a prominent Saudi Sunni scholar, Muhammad Abdul Karim al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, advocates for interfaith dialogue and tolerance, drawing from his background in Saudi justice and diplomacy. This opinion piece underscores the persistent challenge of sectarianism within the global Muslim community and the potential for influential voices to bridge divides.

Customs and Tax Authorities Seal Four Yachts at Marina Beach

Indonesia's Directorate General of Customs (DJBC) and Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) have sealed four foreign-flagged yachts at Marina Beach in North Jakarta due to suspected misuse of import duty and tax exemptions, allegedly involving rentals or sales to Indonesian citizens to evade payments. The operation, part of broader efforts to inspect luxury vessels, aims to boost state revenue and ensure fiscal equity by cracking down on underground economies involving high-value goods. Officials estimate potential losses in the billions of rupiah per yacht and urge businesses to comply with customs and tax regulations.

Klungkung Regent Entrusts Legal Process of Nusa Penida Glass Lift to Bali Provincial Government

Klungkung Regent I Made Satria has adopted a hands-off approach to the legal dispute over the construction of a glass lift at Kelingking Beach in Nusa Penida, deferring the matter entirely to the Bali Provincial Government. He expressed concerns about the lift's negative aesthetic impact on the natural beauty of the site and committed to maintaining order in the area amid potential local opposition. Previously, Bali Governor Wayan Koster ordered the investor, PT Indonesia Kaishi Tourism Property Investment Development Group, to dismantle the structure within six months and restore the land within three months, following a lawsuit by the company in the State Administrative Court.

Prabowo Appoints Liliek Prisbawono as Constitutional Court Justice to Replace Anwar Usman

President Prabowo Subianto has officially inaugurated Liliek Prisbawono Adi as a Constitutional Court justice at the State Palace in Jakarta, replacing Anwar Usman who retired on 6 April 2026. The appointment is based on Presidential Decree Number 36P of 2026, submitted by the Supreme Court, and was followed by Liliek taking the oath of office in the presence of the President. This move ensures the continuity of the Constitutional Court's judicial functions amid key national legal proceedings.

Labour Minister States WFH for Private Sector is Merely Advisory, Here's Why

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, clarified that a recent circular urging private companies to implement one day of work-from-home (WFH) per week is only advisory and not mandatory. This approach aims to avoid disrupting economic growth while promoting energy efficiency and productive work practices. The policy differs from that for civil servants, acknowledging the unique characteristics of private sector operations and providing exemptions for essential public services.