Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 April 2026

Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,637 articles

Scoot adds Indonesia flights to Belitung and Pontianak, increases services across network

Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, is launching new flights to Belitung and Pontianak in Indonesia starting in May and June 2026, respectively, alongside increasing frequencies to popular destinations like Bali, Jakarta, and others across Asia and Europe. These expansions aim to enhance connectivity in Indonesia and meet rising travel demand during the school holiday period. The move strengthens the SIA Group's network through Singapore and offers affordable fares to attract more passengers to Indonesia's cultural and natural attractions.

IMF Reveals Middle East War Causes Oil Supply to Plummet

The IMF's Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has warned that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is severely testing the resilience of the global economy, particularly through a 13% drop in crude oil distribution and a 20% decline in LNG supplies per day. This disruption has led to refinery shutdowns and potential crises in fuel and food supplies, with a recent two-week ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of global oil and LNG passes. The conflict, triggered by joint US-Israel strikes on Iran in February 2026 and subsequent retaliatory actions, has caused significant global energy price spikes and supply shocks.

Constitutional Court Ruling on State Losses: Is BPK Truly the Sole Authority?

The Indonesian Constitutional Court (MK) has affirmed that the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) is constitutionally authorised to assess and determine state financial losses, as outlined in its Decision No. 28/PUU-XXIV/2026. However, legal expert Albert Aries from Trisakti University clarifies that the ruling does not exclusively grant BPK sole authority, countering narrow media interpretations that suggest otherwise. This ambiguity stems from the transition of corruption norms into the new Criminal Code, highlighting the need for clearer legal boundaries to prevent unauthorised calculations of state losses by other entities.

System-based WFH oversight for civil servants in East Jakarta, attendance monitored

The East Jakarta City Government is enforcing strict digital oversight of civil servants (ASN) working from home (WFH) through an integrated system that monitors attendance and performance in real-time, ensuring discipline and productivity remain intact. On Fridays, when WFH is implemented nationally for ASN starting 1 April 2026, 68 out of approximately 680 ASN in East Jakarta participated, with the system facilitating evaluations to maintain public service quality. This policy, coordinated by ministers including Airlangga Hartarto, extends recommendations to the private sector via labour ministry circulars, aiming for flexible work without compromising efficiency.

Moment When Sultan HB X is Given a Hat by Prabowo During Meeting at Jogja Airport

A video of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto gifting a hat to the Governor of Yogyakarta Special Region, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, during his arrival at Adisutjipto Air Base has gone viral on social media. The gesture occurred as the Sultan welcomed the president on a working visit amid hot weather, with the hat handed over via an aide just before Prabowo departed by helicopter for Magelang. The Sultan expressed surprise and gratitude, noting it was because he was the only one not wearing a hat during the reception, highlighting a light-hearted moment in official state interactions.

Unravelling Indonesia's Paradox: Investment and the Demographic Bonus

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted Indonesia's paradox of robust economic growth and high investment—reaching a record Rp1,931 trillion in 2025—coexisting with persistent poverty, unemployment affecting 7.4 million people, and inequality, despite creating 2.7 million jobs. This structural challenge arises from a transition to a high-value industrial and technology-based economy, where capital-intensive investments in minerals, energy, and infrastructure build long-term foundations but do not immediately absorb all available labour. To harness the demographic bonus, the government must integrate these investments with supportive policies to enhance job quality and quantity, transforming the paradox into national synergy.

Unpad Uses Signal Detection Devices to Prevent Cheating in UTBK

Universitas Padjadjaran is implementing stringent measures, including metal detectors, body searches, and signal detection devices, to prevent cheating during the 2026 UTBK national computer-based entrance exam. These preventive actions aim to identify and block prohibited communication devices like those using Bluetooth or internet in exam rooms, ensuring exam integrity. The university has fully prepared its infrastructure and nearly completed staffing, planning to admit 9,443 new students through various selection pathways.

Amvesindo and PwC Strengthen Governance in Indonesian Startup Investments

The Indonesian Venture Capital Association (Amvesindo) and PwC Indonesia have collaborated on an Executive Workshop focused on forensic audit and fraud risk management in startup investments, aiming to elevate governance standards and mitigate risks amid global economic dynamics. Key speakers, including OJK's Maman Firmansyah and Amvesindo's Eddi Danusaputro, emphasised the importance of transparent decision-making, sustainable management, and collaboration among investors, corporations, and regulators to ensure the healthy growth of the startup ecosystem. This initiative seeks to enhance investment quality and public trust, supporting Indonesia's long-term digital economy expansion.

Alternative Routes to Avoid Three Protest Sites in Jakarta

Three protests are taking place in Central Jakarta on Friday, involving student groups at key locations such as Bank BRI headquarters and the DPR/MPR building, prompting traffic diversions to avoid congestion. Police have deployed 453 personnel to secure the events, with situational traffic engineering in place. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes like HR Rasuna Said and Prof. Dr. Satrio to bypass the affected areas, highlighting the impact of public demonstrations on urban mobility in the capital.

KPK Implements Partial WFH for Employees Today, Witness Examinations Continue

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has introduced a hybrid work arrangement for its employees, allowing some to work from home one day a week, in line with the government's fuel efficiency measures amid Middle East tensions. Essential services such as public information, library access, public complaints, and wealth reporting remain open, while witness examinations proceed as normal. The agency is leveraging digital platforms to support these changes and enhance public education efforts.

Deputy Social Minister Emphasises Recruitment for People's School Based on DTSEN, Not Registration

Deputy Social Minister Agus Jabo Priyono has clarified that recruitment for the People's School programme, a priority initiative of President Prabowo Subianto, targets children from the poorest families in deciles 1 and 2 using the National Single Social-Economic Data (DTSEN) rather than open registration. This data-driven approach ensures the programme reaches those most in need, with integrated social services and community groups formed to enhance targeted empowerment up to decile 4. The emphasis on coordination between central and regional governments aims to make social aid more effective and impactful.

All RSUDs in Jakarta Already Have Isolation Rooms to Handle Measles

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has confirmed that all regional general hospitals (RSUDs) in the capital are equipped with isolation rooms to manage infectious diseases, including measles, as part of infection prevention and control procedures. As of now, there are 43 confirmed measles cases, with 1,236 suspected cases recorded earlier this year, prompting a catch-up immunisation drive in March 2026 targeting children aged 9-59 months who have not been fully vaccinated. This initiative underscores ongoing efforts to bolster public health readiness amid persistent measles occurrences and incomplete immunisation coverage in the region.

Ministry of Transportation Announces Latest Update on Jakarta MRT Project Extending to South Tangerang

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has revealed that the feasibility study for extending the Jakarta MRT line from Lebak Bulus to Serpong has commenced this year, involving MRT Jakarta and Sinar Mas Land. This development signals progress in addressing severe traffic congestion in the southern Jakarta corridor, particularly for commuters from South Tangerang. The study, expected to conclude by year's end, will evaluate passenger potential, investment needs, and economic impacts, potentially paving the way for enhanced mass transit and reduced road bottlenecks.

KPK and Metro Jaya Police Arrest Four Fraudsters, Seize US$17,400

A joint team from the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) and Metro Jaya Police arrested four individuals on Thursday night suspected of impersonating KPK officials to deceive people by claiming they could influence corruption cases, seizing US$17,400 in evidence. The suspects allegedly posed as KPK envoys demanding money from a House of Representatives member, and this is believed not to be their first such attempt. KPK urges caution against such scams, emphasises that all official tasks are free and properly documented, and invites reports of similar fraud via their hotline.

Jakarta ASN's First WFH Day, Pramono Ensures Public Services Remain Normal

The Jakarta Provincial Government has initiated a Work From Home (WFH) policy for a portion of its civil servants (ASN) every Friday, starting today, with Governor Pramono Anung assuring that public services will continue uninterrupted. The policy limits WFH to 25-50% of staff in each unit, excluding those involved in public-facing roles, and includes strict attendance requirements via mobile check-ins and prohibitions on non-work activities. This measure aims to enhance productivity and reduce traffic while maintaining discipline through robust monitoring systems and periodic evaluations.

Rupiah Rebounds to Rp 17,083 per US Dollar, Asian Currencies Show Mixed Movements

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened slightly to Rp 17,083 against the US dollar at the opening of Friday's spot market trading, marking a 0.04 percent gain from the previous close. Asian currencies exhibited varied performance, with the Malaysian ringgit leading gains at 0.35 percent, while the Thai baht weakened the most by 0.42 percent. Meanwhile, the Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) surged 2.07 percent to 7,458.610, supported by robust trading volume and a majority of rising stocks, reflecting positive market sentiment in Indonesia.

Combating Stunting, Hankook Indonesia Launches Health Programme in Cikarang

PT Hankook Tire Indonesia has initiated a community health programme in Hegarmukti Village, Cikarang, West Java, featuring nutrition education, free health check-ups, and donations to enhance local health services, aligning with the Indonesian government's efforts to reduce stunting rates. The programme targets expectant mothers and parents of children aged 0-3, including cooking demonstrations for nutritious meals and monitoring child growth to enable early detection of stunting risks. Additionally, the company is distributing 17,500 nutrition packages to six villages in Bekasi Regency over two months, supporting the national health agenda and local authorities' goals to lower stunting prevalence.

DKI Governor Confident PP Tunas Can Enhance Learning Focus and Protect Children in Digital Space

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has expressed hope that Government Regulation Number 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic Systems in Child Protection (PP Tunas) will enable children to concentrate better on their studies by safeguarding them from harmful digital content. The regulation mandates age verification, content filtering, and account deactivation for minors on high-risk platforms, which Pramono believes will support children's aspirations. In response, he plans to issue a gubernatorial regulation to support the national framework, particularly given Jakarta's high digital literacy among youth.

Government Accelerates Development of National Electric Vehicle Ecosystem

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has emphasised the government's commitment to rapidly building an integrated electric vehicle ecosystem to transition towards clean energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This includes strengthening industry, providing supporting infrastructure, and offering incentives to boost adoption and enhance energy independence. President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the strategic importance of energy self-sufficiency alongside food security, underscoring the need for immediate action in electrifying transportation to ensure national sovereignty amid global dynamics.

Attorney General's Office Names 7 Suspects in Petral Case, Only 5 Detained

The Attorney General's Office has named seven suspects in a corruption case involving the procurement of crude oil and refinery products at Pertamina Energy Trading Ltd (Petral) from 2008 to 2015, uncovering leaks of confidential information and tender manipulations that disadvantaged PT Pertamina. Five of the suspects, mostly from Pertamina and Petral with some private sector individuals, have been detained, while one is under city arrest due to health reasons and another is a fugitive. The case involves non-competitive procurement leading to price markups and is being coordinated with the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency to assess state losses, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat corruption in state-owned enterprises.

Four Fake KPK Employees Arrested After Demanding Money from DPR Member

Polda Metro Jaya and the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have arrested four individuals posing as KPK employees who demanded USD 17,400 from a House of Representatives (DPR) member in West Jakarta. The suspects claimed to be emissaries from KPK leadership capable of influencing case handling, marking a recurring modus operandi. KPK urges caution against such impersonations, emphasising that its officials carry official identification and never solicit rewards, while encouraging reports of similar fraud to authorities.

Former Iranian Foreign Minister Dies After Being Wounded in US-Israel Attack

Former Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi has died from injuries sustained in a US-Israel attack on his Tehran home on 1 April, with his wife also perishing in the strike. Kharrazi, a key figure in Iranian diplomacy since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, served as foreign minister from 1997 to 2005 and advised the Supreme Leader on foreign relations. His death occurs amid an escalating US-Israel war against Iran that began on 28 February, claiming over 2,000 lives, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials.

Vietjet Increases Seat Capacity for Mid-Year Holiday Period

Vietjet Air is boosting its flight operations by nearly 3,800 flights and offering up to 832,000 seats during Vietnam's major holiday period from 25 April to 5 May 2026, marking a 16% increase in flights compared to the previous year. This expansion targets popular domestic routes and includes promotions valid until 31 August 2026, providing opportunities for Indonesian travellers to explore Vietnam and other Asia-Pacific destinations via new routes like Jakarta to Da Nang. The initiative underscores Vietjet's strategy to enhance regional connectivity and support tourism growth in the region.

BRIN develops environmentally friendly nitrogen fertiliser production method

Researchers at Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) have pioneered a sustainable method for producing nitrogen fertiliser using Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) plasma technology to generate ammonia directly from water and nitrogen gas, bypassing the energy-intensive Haber-Bosch process. Optimal results achieved a concentration of 19.7 ppm of ammonia in 30 minutes under specific conditions, including deionised water and no UV exposure, highlighting the potential for cleaner, catalyst-free production. This innovation promises to advance sustainable agriculture and global food security by offering an efficient alternative that reduces carbon emissions and operational complexity.

Strengthen ESG Assurance Role to Drive Credibility and Access to Green Financing

PT Surveyor Indonesia (Persero) has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering Indonesia's national sustainability ecosystem through its strategic role as a provider of testing, inspection, certification, and consultancy (TICC) services. At a forum on ESG, Decarbonisation, and the Future of Indonesia's Green Business held at the Indonesia Stock Exchange, Director Fajar Wibhiyadi highlighted the need for data-driven and verifiable ESG approaches to enhance credibility and facilitate access to sustainable financing. The company's services ensure ESG initiatives are measurable and aligned with global standards, supporting the transition to a low-carbon economy and improving corporate competitiveness.

Viral Illegal Parking on Road Near MRT Lebak Bulus, Pramono to Crack Down

A viral video has highlighted illegal parking by motorbikes on a road near MRT Lebak Bulus in South Jakarta, occupying half the roadway and causing traffic congestion and safety issues for pedestrians, particularly during rush hours. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has pledged immediate action, directing the Mayor of South Jakarta to lead the cleanup as part of a broader city-wide effort to regulate such hotspots. This initiative follows successful recent interventions at locations like behind Grand Indonesia and around RSCM, addressing long-standing problems that have persisted for years.

Government pushes water taxi and pier development to support Bali's tourism

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation is accelerating tourism infrastructure in Bali, including water taxis to connect I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport to Canggu, reducing travel time from up to two hours by land to just 30 minutes, and addressing traffic congestion in Badung District. State-owned PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry is preparing designs for construction from August 2026 to July 2027, while piers at Celukan Bawang Port are being built to handle cargo and passengers, separating heavy and light vehicle traffic. Additional measures involve port enhancements at Ketapang and Gilimanuk to improve connectivity, logistics, and mobility during peak seasons, ultimately boosting tourism services.

When is the Peak of the 2026 Dry Season? Check the List of Regions Too

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecasted that the peak of the 2026 dry season will occur earlier or on schedule across most regions, with August being the dominant month affecting 61.4% of zones. The dry season is expected to begin in April to June, starting from Nusa Tenggara and spreading nationwide, with below-normal rainfall and longer durations than usual in many areas. This prediction, following the end of a weak La Niña in February 2026, underscores the need for preparedness against potential droughts impacting agriculture, water resources, and public policy responses.

Pretending to Sleep and Ignoring Priority Passengers for KRL Seats: An Empathy Crisis?

In Jakarta's overcrowded KRL Commuter Line trains, priority seats intended for the elderly, pregnant women, disabled individuals, and children are frequently occupied by able-bodied passengers who pretend to sleep or act indifferently, sparking social tensions and highlighting a broader empathy crisis in urban society. Sociologist Rakhmat attributes this behaviour to individualism, social anomie, and uneven power structures in big cities, which prioritise personal comfort over collective welfare. He advocates for social education, awareness campaigns, and stricter public policies to foster inclusivity and reinforce solidarity norms.

Global Markets Green, IHSG Joins the Surge

The Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) opened higher on Friday morning, gaining 0.53% to 7,346.49, buoyed by positive sentiments from Asian and global markets amid easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and anticipation of US economic data. Despite the World Bank's downward revision of Indonesia's 2026 growth forecast to 4.7% due to global energy price hikes, analysts predict the IHSG could test the 7,350 level in the short term. This performance reflects broader market optimism, with Wall Street and Asian indices also advancing, while European markets closed lower.

Oil Prices Edge Up Slightly, Market Closely Monitors Strait of Hormuz Tensions

Global oil prices rose modestly on Friday morning amid renewed geopolitical risks, with Brent at US$96.62 per barrel and WTI at US$98.84 per barrel, following a volatile week marked by sharp declines from over US$109. Key factors include attacks on Saudi energy facilities reducing output by 600,000 barrels per day, disruptions to the East-West Pipeline, and ongoing closures of the vital Strait of Hormuz since late February, heightening supply concerns. While a two-week US-Iran ceasefire offers some relief, persistent military activities and potential Iranian transit fees keep risk premiums elevated, with analysts warning of extreme price surges if Hormuz flows remain blocked.

Religious Affairs Minister: WFH is a new, more adaptive and efficient way of working

Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, has introduced a work-from-home (WFH) policy for every Friday starting 10 April 2026, as part of a broader cultural transformation in the ministry to foster more adaptive, efficient, and digitally-based work practices without compromising service quality. The initiative aims to address global dynamics, reduce energy and mobility costs, and promote a balanced work rhythm, with civil servants required to remain on standby at home. This move underscores the government's push towards modernising public sector operations in line with evolving societal needs.

Drug Circulation in Vapes Emerges as New Threat, PUI Supports BNN's Control Measures

The increasing use of vapes among Indonesian youth has raised alarms due to health risks and their emerging role as a medium for narcotic abuse, prompting the National Narcotics Agency (BNN) to advocate for stricter controls or bans. Achmad Tjachja Nugraha of the Persatuan Umat Islam (PUI) endorses these measures, highlighting the shift from a lifestyle trend to a serious threat to public health and the nation's youth, with data showing a tenfold rise in users from 2011 to 2021. He calls for a collaborative effort involving government, religious leaders, educators, and society to enhance education, regulation, and oversight to prevent vapes from becoming a gateway for drug proliferation.

Transport Minister to Prepare Regulations for ODOL Trucks to Bear Road Damage Responsibility

Indonesia's Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has announced plans to introduce regulations holding overloaded and oversized (ODOL) trucks accountable for road damage they cause, as part of efforts to eliminate such vehicles by 2027. This initiative addresses the significant role of heavy vehicles in degrading national infrastructure and exacerbating traffic congestion, particularly during peak periods like Eid travel. The measures also aim to mitigate operational losses in ferry services, where ODOL trucks reduce capacity by occupying excessive space.

Despite WFH Rules, Munjirin Ensures Public Services in East Jakarta Continue Uninterrupted

East Jakarta Mayor Munjirin has assured that essential public services, including health centres, fire departments, and administrative offices at the sub-district and village levels, will remain fully operational from their premises despite the implementation of work-from-home (WFH) policies for civil servants every Friday. This exemption prioritises direct citizen services to avoid disruptions, while only a small portion—68 out of approximately 680 ASN in the area—will work remotely, in line with national guidelines set by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto effective from 1 April 2026. The policy aims to balance workforce flexibility with the government's duty to deliver maximum public services, with similar recommendations extended to the private sector.

WFH for Civil Servants Reduces Traffic Congestion, Making Jakarta's Traffic Flow Smoother

The implementation of a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) in Jakarta has significantly reduced traffic congestion in key areas, as reported by the Metro Jaya Police Traffic Directorate, with smoother flows observed on major roads like Sudirman and Asia Afrika. Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has signed a circular mandating 25-50% of ASN to work remotely every Friday, subject to eligibility criteria such as no disciplinary issues and over two years of service, aiming to alleviate chronic urban traffic issues. This measure highlights a practical government response to Jakarta's persistent congestion problems, potentially improving daily commutes and urban mobility.

House Commission X Calls for Safety Evaluation After Siak Student Dies During Practical Session

Following the tragic death of a 15-year-old student in Siak, Riau, due to an explosion from a homemade 3D-printed gun during a science practical exam, Deputy Chairman of the House Commission X, Lalu Hadrian, has expressed deep concern and urged a comprehensive evaluation of safety protocols in educational activities. He emphasised the need to prioritise safety in learning experiments, strengthen laboratory SOPs, and enhance teacher training in risk management to prevent future incidents. This call highlights the importance of balancing innovation in science education with stringent safety measures across Indonesian schools.

Indonesia and UNIFIL troop-contributing nations condemn attacks on the force

Indonesia, alongside other nations contributing troops to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), has issued a joint statement strongly condemning ongoing attacks on the peacekeeping mission, which recently resulted in the deaths of three Indonesian peacekeepers and injuries to several others from various countries. The statement expresses deep concern over escalating tensions in Lebanon since March 2026, urging all parties to cease hostilities, respect UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and ensure the safety of UN personnel in line with international law. It also calls for swift investigations into the attacks and reaffirms strong support for UNIFIL's mandate, highlighting the broader humanitarian crisis including civilian casualties and mass displacement.

Weda Bay Nickel Receives ISO Recognition for Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Systems

Weda Bay Nickel, a nickel mining company in North Maluku, has achieved ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certifications, affirming its commitment to robust environmental management and occupational health and safety practices. These international standards, obtained through rigorous independent audits, enhance the company's operational reliability and global competitiveness, particularly in the battery and electric vehicle supply chains where ESG compliance is paramount. The certifications underscore Weda Bay Nickel's ongoing ESG strategy, ensuring sustainable production of raw materials while meeting stakeholder expectations and regulatory demands.

Meta Raises Minimum User Age to 16 Years

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has praised Meta for raising the minimum user age to 16 across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, aligning with the new Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on child protection in electronic systems. This change followed a summons and inspection by Komdigi on 7 April 2026, addressing prior non-compliance with age restrictions aimed at high-risk digital platforms. In contrast, Google has received an administrative warning for failing to demonstrate compliance regarding YouTube, underscoring the government's firm stance on enforcing these regulations equally across all platforms.

Is US Power Really Reaching Its Limits, Unable to Win a War Against Iran?

In a hypothetical scenario, US President Donald Trump declares a ceasefire with Iran, marking a temporary halt to hostilities in the Middle East, as analysed by Russian foreign policy expert Fyodor Lukyanov. Lukyanov argues that the US, facing prolonged uncertainty and strategic risks, has effectively retreated from its aggressive demands, highlighting the limits of American power against Iran's resilient resistance and the enduring 'Axis of Resistance' in the region. The analysis underscores broader implications for Gulf monarchies, Israel's security, and the erosion of US omnipotence, suggesting a shift towards more complex regional alliances and negotiations.

Pramono to Issue Governor's Regulation as Derivative of Tunas PP to Limit Jakarta Children's Social Media Use

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung plans to enact a Governor's Regulation (Pergub) as a follow-up to the Government Regulation on the Governance of Electronic Systems in Child Protection (Tunas PP), targeting the high digital consumption among Jakarta's children. The regulation aims to restrict access to certain digital platforms to enhance children's focus on education, with the provincial government committing to full support including monitoring mechanisms and guidance for schools and parents. This move aligns with national efforts led by Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid to enforce digital sovereignty and child safety without compromise on compliance for service providers.

WFH for Civil Servants Every Friday: Can It Really Alleviate Jakarta's Traffic Jams?

A proposed policy to implement work from home (WFH) for civil servants (ASN) every Friday aims to reduce Jakarta's severe traffic congestion and energy consumption, but transportation expert Deddy Herlambang questions its effectiveness due to the relatively small number of ASN—about 5.3 million—compared to the 58.05 million private and informal sector workers. He argues that the impact on traffic density and fuel savings would be minimal, equivalent to reducing one in every 50 vehicle users, and warns that the policy could lead to "work from anywhere" behaviours, potentially increasing travel for leisure on what feels like an extended weekend. Ultimately, the success of the initiative hinges on the discipline of ASN in adhering to the rules.

Singapore and Cambodia sign agreement to bolster food security

Singapore and Cambodia have signed a memorandum of cooperation to enhance food security through strengthened rice trade, allowing Cambodia to supply rice to Singapore on mutually agreed terms during disruptions. This agreement, the third of its kind after similar deals with Vietnam and Thailand, aligns with Singapore's Food Story 2 strategy to diversify imports and build global partnerships amid geopolitical tensions and supply chain risks. The pact underscores the importance of bilateral cooperation in maintaining resilient food supplies in an interconnected agri-food landscape.

Saudi Arabia to Not Issue Visas, No Furoda Hajj in 2026

Saudi Arabia has decided not to issue furoda Hajj visas for 2026, affecting prospective pilgrims from Indonesia and elsewhere, including both regular and non-regular categories, who will now face longer waiting times. Deputy Minister for Hajj and Umrah Affairs, Dahnil Anzhar Simanjuntak, clarified that only legal Hajj visas will be available, warning the public against scams promising quick departures via furoda routes. This policy change underscores the ongoing quota restrictions and prioritisation of official channels for the pilgrimage, with waiting periods currently up to 26 years for regular Hajj and 6 years for special Hajj.

Supporting Food Security, Transmigrants Receive Agricultural Machinery Assistance

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Transmigration and in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, is bolstering agricultural productivity in transmigration areas to position them as national rice production hubs and enhance food security. Deputy Minister Viva Yoga Mauladi highlighted the provision of farming equipment and machinery (alsintan) based on community needs assessments, alongside infrastructure developments such as 2 km of roads in North Gorontalo Regency and planned flood-control dams. These initiatives, aligned with the President's directives, aim to improve transmigrants' and local residents' incomes and living conditions in a more comfortable environment.

Acknowledging Miscommunication, Purbaya: No More Electric Motorcycle Purchases for MBG This Year

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that there will be no further purchases of electric motorcycles for the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in 2026, following a miscommunication from the previous year's procurement. He confirmed this with the Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, who detailed that only 21,801 out of 25,644 contracted units were delivered by March 2026, with remaining funds returned to the state treasury in line with regulations. This development underscores the government's commitment to tighter oversight of the MBG programme's implementation amid ongoing budget scrutiny.

Government Expands Energy Supply Sources Amid Distribution Disruptions

The Indonesian government is diversifying its energy imports from regions including the United States, Africa, East Asia, and the Middle East to mitigate risks from global distribution disruptions, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz. Officials are also optimising domestic production by redirecting crude oil from contractors to meet local needs for fuels like BBM and LPG. Energy experts warn that maintaining subsidised fuel prices despite surging global crude costs could strain state-owned Pertamina's finances, potentially requiring trillions of rupiah in additional funding monthly and impacting national energy resilience.

Traffic Engineering in Place for Betawi Lebaran Event at Lapangan Banteng Field

The Jakarta Transportation Agency (Dishub DKI) has implemented traffic management measures around Taman Lapangan Banteng in Central Jakarta for the Betawi Lebaran cultural event scheduled from 10 to 12 April 2026, aiming to ensure smooth and orderly traffic flow. Detailed schedules for traffic diversions, alternative routes, designated parking pockets accommodating hundreds of vehicles and motorcycles, and enhanced public transport options including Transjakarta bus routes and KRL train services have been provided to facilitate visitor access. This initiative underscores the local government's efforts to balance cultural celebrations with urban mobility in the capital.

Traffic Engineering for Betawi Lebaran 2026 at Lapangan Banteng Field

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has implemented traffic engineering measures around Lapangan Banteng in Central Jakarta to ensure smooth operations during the three-day Betawi Lebaran 2026 event, starting from Friday, 10 April. Alternative routes have been detailed to manage vehicle density, while the festival promotes cultural preservation and unity under the theme “Betawi Lebaran for Jakarta: Strengthening Unity in Preserving Traditions Towards a Global Jakarta City”. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport and comply with on-site instructions to avoid congestion and enhance communal comfort.