Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 April 2026

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Rupiah Strengthens Despite World Bank Cutting Indonesia's 2026 Economic Growth Projection

The Indonesian rupiah exhibited mixed movements, weakening to Rp17,082 per US dollar on Thursday but strengthening slightly to Rp17,083 on Friday morning, amid global economic uncertainties. The World Bank has revised down its forecast for Indonesia's 2026 GDP growth to 4.7% from 4.8%, citing external pressures like Middle East conflicts, US trade restrictions, and AI advancements, though this remains above the East Asia and Pacific region's 4.2% projection. In contrast, the Indonesian government remains optimistic, targeting 5.4-5.7% growth driven by domestic consumption, investments, and biodiesel programmes, highlighting resilience against geopolitical tensions affecting energy supplies.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in East Flores erupts again

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in East Flores, Nusa Tenggara Timur, erupted on Friday morning, producing a grey ash column rising about 500 metres above the summit and drifting northeast, as reported by the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The volcano remains at Alert Level II, with warnings issued for potential lahar floods during heavy rain and advice for residents to wear masks against ashfall; historical data indicates explosive eruptions with varying intervals, while recent major activity from March to October 2025 led to the displacement and relocation of over 500 families due to severe damage from volcanic materials. This latest eruption underscores ongoing volcanic risks in the region, prompting continued monitoring and public preparedness measures by authorities.

OJK Enhances Capital Market Literacy to Expand Retail Investor Base

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is intensifying efforts to boost capital market literacy and inclusion in collaboration with self-regulatory organisations, aiming to broaden Indonesia's domestic investor base and promote the capital market as a key source of development financing across regions. At a financial education event in Serang, OJK's Hasan Fawzi highlighted the low 17.78% literacy rate from the 2025 SNLIK survey, stressing the need to protect the public from fraudulent investments, especially as services become easily accessible via smartphones. With 24.4 million national investors as of March 2026—mostly young people—and Banten province ranking among the top five with 1.2 million, officials like Rina Dewiyanti underscored the capital market's role in driving regional economic growth.

Jakarta Traffic Flows More Smoothly This Morning with ASN Working from Home

Jakarta's traffic conditions have improved significantly this morning due to the implementation of the work-from-home policy for civil servants every Friday, resulting in reduced vehicle volumes on major roads. According to the Director of Traffic at Metro Jaya Police, key routes such as Jenderal Sudirman, Asia Afrika, and Gerbang Pemuda, which typically experience morning congestion, are now flowing more freely. While some bottlenecks persist at intersections like Slipi to Semanggi due to crossing traffic flows, the overall reduction highlights the policy's positive impact on urban mobility.

Comparing the 1998 Monetary Crisis, the 2020 Pandemic, and the Economy Today!

The global economy faces uncertainty due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which is keeping oil prices high and raising fears of a potential economic crisis. This article compares Indonesia's key macroeconomic indicators today with those during the 1998 monetary crisis and the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic to assess resilience. Such comparisons highlight the relative stability of the current situation despite external pressures, offering insights for policymakers and investors.

Indonesia Initiates Joint Statement on UNIFIL Security Supported by 73 Countries

The Indonesian government has taken a proactive diplomatic step by initiating a Joint Statement on the Safety and Security of Peacekeepers in response to the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon threatening UNIFIL personnel, which has garnered official support from 73 countries and UN observers as of Thursday. This initiative, presented by Indonesia's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Umar Hadi, calls on the UN Security Council to conduct thorough investigations into attacks on peacekeepers, including those that resulted in the deaths of three Indonesian personnel since late March 2026, and urges an immediate cessation of violence and de-escalation. The move underscores Indonesia's commitment to protecting UN peacekeeping missions and highlights global concerns over escalating conflicts that endanger international personnel on the ground.

Minister of Immigration and Corrections Affirms Commitment to Eradicating Narcotics in Prisons and Detention Centres

Indonesia's Minister of Immigration and Corrections, Agus Andrianto, has reaffirmed his ministry's unwavering commitment to eliminating narcotics trafficking within prisons (lapas) and state detention centres (rutan), emphasising strict enforcement against both inmates and implicated staff. Key measures include enhancing security through integrated CCTV systems, intensified raids in collaboration with agencies like BNN, Polri, and TNI, and the transfer of 2,284 high-risk and narcotics kingpin inmates to the high-security Nusakambangan facility to cleanse other institutions and support rehabilitation. This holistic approach, involving disciplinary actions, integrity enforcement, and partnerships with NGOs, underscores a collaborative effort to transform prisons into safe, drug-free environments that facilitate effective social reintegration, with appreciation extended to parliamentary oversight from Komisi III DPR RI.

Global Oil Prices Rise Again as Attacks on Saudi Arabia Disrupt Supplies

Global oil prices have continued to climb for the second consecutive day, with Brent nearing $97 per barrel and WTI around $99 per barrel, following attacks on Saudi energy infrastructure that have reduced production capacity by approximately 600,000 barrels per day and pipeline flows by 700,000 barrels daily. These disruptions, including strikes on key export routes like the East-West pipeline, heighten supply risks and complicate crude availability in Asia, prompting Japan to release strategic reserves equivalent to 20 days of consumption in May and the US to offer up to 30 million barrels from its strategic reserves. Despite a recent US-Iran ceasefire, the incidents underscore ongoing vulnerabilities in the Middle East, potentially exacerbating energy costs worldwide.

Coalition Urges DPR and President to Promptly Discuss Revision of Election Law

A civil society coalition has urged the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) and President Prabowo Subianto to prioritise the revision of the 2017 Election Law, criticising ongoing delays as a sign of weak political will that risks authoritarianism and undermines electoral democracy. The coalition highlights poor election administration stemming from flawed selection processes for organisers and calls for the immediate completion and public release of the academic paper and draft bill to allow stakeholder input. Former Coordinating Minister Mahfud MD supports expediting the revision by 2027 to avoid legal issues ahead of the 2029 elections, while DPR Speaker Puan Maharani states that discussions are ongoing but currently deprioritised due to geopolitical concerns and grassroots issues.

Revealed! Riza Chalid's Role in the Alleged Petral Corruption Case

The Attorney General's Office has named businessman Muhammad Riza Chalid as a suspect in a corruption case involving the procurement of crude oil and refinery products at Pertamina Energy Trading Limited (Petral) from 2008 to 2015, alongside six other suspects. Chalid, acting as the beneficial owner of involved companies, is accused of influencing tenders through communication with Pertamina officials, leading to non-competitive processes, mark-ups, and higher prices that caused losses to Pertamina, particularly in gasoline supplies. This designation adds to Chalid's prior suspect status in another Pertamina-related corruption probe from 2018-2023, highlighting ongoing issues in the state-owned energy giant's operations.

Ministry of Agriculture and Gapki Introduce Latest Oil Palm Pollinator Insects

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the Indonesian Palm Oil Entrepreneurs Association (Gapki), has introduced three new pollinator insect species from Tanzania—Elaeidobius subvittatus, Elaeidobius kamerunicus, and Elaeidobius plagiatus—to boost oil palm productivity and sustainability. This initiative, launched at the Palm Oil Research Centre in Marihat, marks a significant innovation following the 1982 introduction that previously transformed the industry, aiming to reduce cultivation costs and enhance ecosystem resilience through scientifically vetted and regulated processes. Involving multiple stakeholders including the Plantation Fund Management Agency and research bodies, the move underscores a commitment to science-based policies that ensure high safety standards and long-term industry viability.

Covid-19 Cicada Variant Has Not Entered Indonesia, UGM Expert: Not More Virulent

A new Covid-19 variant dubbed Cicada, a subvariant of Omicron BA.3.2 first identified in South Africa in November 2024, has sparked global concern but has not yet been detected in Indonesia, according to Prof. Tri Wibawa from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). The expert assures that it does not appear more severe than previous strains, with symptoms similar to mild flu, and emphasises that vaccination and standard health protocols remain the best defences. As Indonesia's dominant variants pose low risk and the situation is under control, no special measures are required, though vigilance is advised to prevent potential spread.

BRI (BBRI) to Hold AGM This Afternoon, Discussing Key Agenda and Dividends!

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. (BBRI) is convening its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders (AGM) today to address seven key items, including the approval of net profit allocation for the 2025 fiscal year and additional dividends following an interim payout of Rp137 per share totalling Rp20.63 trillion. Despite a 5.26% year-on-year decline in net profit to Rp57.13 trillion for 2025, CEO Hery Gunardi has signalled an increase in total dividend distribution this year, supported by a robust capital adequacy ratio of 23.52%, while the meeting will also cover amendments to the company's articles of association related to a share transfer agreement between state entities.

Between Parking Tickets and QR Codes

The Surabaya City Government has suspended the permits of around 600 official parking attendants who refuse to adopt a digital QR code payment system, aiming to enhance transparency and reduce revenue leakages in public parking services. This move, supported by 85-90% of the public, addresses longstanding issues like inconsistent fees and illicit collections, but it highlights resistance from workers lacking bank accounts or digital skills, who fear income reductions under the new 60-40 revenue split favouring the government. The policy underscores the challenges of modernising informal sectors in urban areas, balancing efficiency gains with the need for inclusive adaptation strategies to avoid unintended social impacts.

Ministry Offices Deserted on First WFH Friday, Canteens Closed

Indonesian government ministry offices were notably empty on the inaugural Friday implementation of a mandatory work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants, aimed at boosting energy efficiency amid global conflicts. Observations at key locations in Jakarta revealed sparse parking and minimal staff presence, with canteens shuttered. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto estimates the policy could save up to Rp6.2 trillion in the state budget through reduced fuel compensation expenditures.

Jakarta East City Government Ensures Public Services Remain Optimal Despite Civil Servants Working from Home

The Jakarta East City Government has initiated a selective work-from-home (WFH) policy for approximately 68 of its 680 civil servants starting Friday, in line with national regulations mandating one day of WFH per week for public sector employees. Mayor Munjirin emphasised that the majority of staff, particularly those in frontline roles at sub-district and village levels, will continue working on-site to maintain uninterrupted public services, with around 90% of personnel remaining in the office. This approach, supported by directives from Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto and set for evaluation after two months from April 2026, aims to balance flexibility with professionalism and effective response to public complaints.

Officially Listed, Immediately Flooded by Investors! BSA Logistics Raises Rp302 Billion from IPO

PT BSA Logistics Indonesia Tbk successfully debuted on the Indonesia Stock Exchange today, raising Rp302.4 billion through an IPO of 1.8 billion new shares at Rp168 each, marking the first listing of 2026 and achieving an oversubscription of 386.86 times. The funds will support expansion, including acquisitions in sea transportation to enhance end-to-end logistics services, and capital expenditures to boost operational capacity and efficiency. As a 2021-founded integrated logistics provider focusing on multimodal transport, warehousing, and freight forwarding, the company views this milestone as key to strengthening its market position amid Indonesia's archipelagic geography and robust domestic economic activity.

Strengthening the Beyond Mortgage Transformation, BTN Has Disbursed 6 Million Mortgages up to April 2026

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has achieved a milestone by disbursing 6 million home ownership loans (KPR) worth Rp530 trillion since 1976 until early April 2026, underscoring its pivotal role in expanding housing access and bolstering Indonesia's national housing ecosystem. The bank's CEO, Nixon LP Napitupulu, highlighted this accomplishment as a reflection of BTN's long-term commitment to sustainable housing finance, with future plans focusing on a 'beyond mortgage' transformation to offer comprehensive family financial services, from savings and digital payments to retirement products and bundled home furnishing financing. Director of Consumer Banking Hirwandi Gafar noted that while demand for affordable housing rises, supply challenges like land availability and permitting persist, prompting BTN to adopt more proactive and integrated approaches to enhance loan distribution nationwide.

Jakarta East City Government Holds Morning Exercise Despite ASN Working from Home Every Friday

The Jakarta East City Government proceeded with its routine morning exercise session for civil servants (ASN) on Friday, 10 April 2026, despite the implementation of a work-from-home (WFH) policy for that day. Mayor Munjirin led the event, attended by hundreds of ASN from various levels, and used the occasion to brief participants on handling public complaints and WFH procedures. While 68 ASN at the mayor's office adhered to WFH, district and sub-district officials were exempted, highlighting a balance between health initiatives and flexible work arrangements in local governance.

Xiaomi prepares cheaper electric SUV than YU7

Xiaomi is reportedly developing a more affordable variant of its YU7 electric SUV, featuring a simpler configuration and lighter weight to enhance competitiveness in the EV market, as revealed in recent regulatory filings in China. The new model retains the same exterior dimensions and uses a CATL-supplied LFP battery, while offering additional personalisation options like new 20-inch wheel designs. This entry-level version could lower the starting price below the current YU7 range of approximately 253,500 to 329,900 yuan, potentially broadening access to Xiaomi's electric vehicles.

Posyandu Services in Jakarta Hindered by Budget Constraints and Minimal Facilities

Posyandu integrated health services in Jakarta are facing significant challenges due to inadequate facilities stemming from poor budget integration across local government agencies, as highlighted by DPRD member Nabilah Aboebakar Alhabsyi from the PKS faction. Basic needs such as tables, chairs, medical equipment, and infant scales are often unaddressed in planning processes like Musrenbang, leading to responsibilities being passed between the Health Department, Puskesmas, and district offices. This situation risks undermining the vital role of Posyandu in providing essential maternal and child healthcare at the community level, underscoring the need for enhanced inter-agency coordination and prioritisation of community-based health services.

Video: Foreign Reserves Decline, Yet Rupiah Remains Weak at Rp17,000 per US Dollar

Indonesia's rupiah continues to face pressure, trading around Rp17,000 per US dollar amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Bank Indonesia's efforts to stabilise the currency have depleted foreign exchange reserves to USD 148.2 billion by the end of March 2026, down from USD 151.9 billion in February. An analysis of the rupiah's resilience is provided by FX Analyst Elvan Chanra Widyatama on CNBC Indonesia's Squawk Box.

JCI Strengthens Following Asian and Global Markets

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened higher on Friday, gaining 0.53% to 7,346.49, buoyed by positive movements in Asian and global stock markets amid easing tensions in the Middle East. The World Bank has lowered its forecast for Indonesia's 2026 economic growth to 4.7% from 4.8%, citing impacts from escalating Middle East conflicts that could drive up global energy prices, falling short of the government's 5.4% target. Market participants are also monitoring US inflation data and AI disruptions, with regional Asian indices showing gains while European markets weakened the previous day.

Strait of Hormuz Reportedly Closed Again, Pertamina Reveals Tanker Update

The Strait of Hormuz has been reportedly closed again by Iranian authorities following Israel's military strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon, disrupting a critical global energy supply route that typically sees 20 million barrels of oil pass daily. PT Pertamina, Indonesia's state-owned oil company, is monitoring the volatile Middle East situation closely, with its tankers still positioned in the Persian Gulf and yet to traverse the strait, prioritising crew safety and coordinating with stakeholders including the Foreign Ministry. Amid the conflict, Pertamina reaffirms its commitment to supporting the government in ensuring energy availability across the nation.

Oil Prices Rise 1 Percent Amid Plans for Israel-Lebanon Peace Talks

Global crude oil prices strengthened by 1 percent on Friday, with Brent reaching $95.92 per barrel and WTI climbing to $97.87 per barrel, influenced by the ongoing ceasefire in the Middle East and Israel's plans for peace talks with Lebanon. Despite a recent 5 percent surge due to fears over the US-Iran ceasefire's durability and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—where shipping traffic remains below 10 percent of normal—market concerns persist over Saudi export interruptions from infrastructure attacks and heightened regional risks. Analysts warn that low shipping volumes and elevated insurance premiums could sustain higher oil costs, underscoring the Strait's critical role in transporting 20 percent of the world's oil and gas supplies.

JCI Strengthens to 7,377 Amid Rupiah Pressure and Foreign Net Selling

The Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) rose 0.40% to 7,377.63 on Friday, continuing its upward trend despite ongoing foreign net selling of Rp1.8 trillion and the rupiah weakening towards Rp17,100 per US dollar. Mirae Asset's Head of Research, Rully Arya Wisnubroto, described the rally as fragile and illusory, heavily reliant on short-term global sentiments such as US-Iran de-escalation and oil price corrections, while domestic challenges like exchange rate stability and limited central bank rate cuts hinder a more optimistic re-rating of Indonesian stocks. This performance underscores persistent low confidence among foreign investors in domestic assets amid broader economic uncertainties.

Japanese Car Dealers Collapsing Under Assault from Chinese Brands, Says Industry Minister

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has urged Japanese automakers to adapt to shifting consumer preferences as several dealerships in Indonesia close amid rising competition from Chinese brands. He emphasised the need for these producers to align with market demands and government policies accelerating the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. This shift is particularly critical given global energy dynamics, including Middle East conflicts, and extends to various vehicle types from passenger cars to buses.

TNI AU's 80th Anniversary: F-16 Fighter Jets and KAI T-50 Escort Presidential Aircraft

During his working visit to Magelang, Central Java, President Prabowo Subianto's aircraft received a special escort from four F-16 Fighting Falcon jets and two T-50 Golden Eagle aircraft of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU), marking the force's 80th anniversary. This VVIP security operation highlighted the TNI AU's readiness and national air defence capabilities in protecting the state leader. Prabowo expressed pride in the air force's dedication, while pilots acknowledged his support for modernising Indonesia's aerial defences, including recent acquisitions like Rafale, KAAN, and KF-21 Boramae jets.

Japan Considers Releasing Additional Oil Supply Equivalent to 20 Days

Japan is contemplating the release of additional oil reserves equivalent to 20 days of domestic consumption in May due to ongoing uncertainties surrounding safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz amid the Middle East conflict. This follows the country's largest-ever oil reserve release in mid-March, which totalled about 50 days' worth from national, private, and Gulf producer stocks, after the key shipping route was partially closed. As a resource-poor nation reliant on the Middle East for over 90% of its crude oil imports, Japan faces sharp rises in energy and other costs from these disruptions, prompting further precautionary measures.

BPKH hands over SAR 152.4 million in banknotes for Hajj pilgrims' pocket money

The Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH) has delivered SAR 152.4 million in Saudi Riyal banknotes to cover the living costs of 203,320 Indonesian prospective Hajj pilgrims for 2026, ensuring transparent and Sharia-compliant financial readiness. Each pilgrim will receive SAR 750 in specific denominations to meet daily needs, emergencies, and Hajj penalty payments, with distribution handled through Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI). Amid global economic challenges, BPKH's optimal fund management subsidises the Hajj travel cost by approximately Rp33.2 million per person, keeping it affordable at Rp54 million, with any escalations covered by state mechanisms rather than pilgrims.

Management of Jatinangor Golf Resort Reviewed to Boost West Java's Regional Revenue

The Special Committee XIII of the West Java Provincial DPRD is pushing for a review of the management agreement for Jatinangor National Golf Resort to enhance its contribution to the province's regional revenue. Currently operated under a 30-year BOT scheme by PT Langen Krida Pratyangga, which pays a fixed Rp 3 billion annually, the committee seeks to optimise the partnership through periodic evaluations every five years to unlock greater economic benefits and potential business expansions. This initiative forms part of the broader scrutiny of the Governor's 2025 Accountability Report, aiming to ensure provincial assets generate increasing value for local development.

Bank bjb Extends Strategic Partnership with TNI Headquarters, Collaboration Continues

Bank bjb has renewed its strategic partnership with the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Headquarters by signing an extension to their financial services agreement, reinforcing ongoing collaboration since 2022. The agreement expands banking services for TNI personnel, including loans for active duty, retirement preparation, home ownership, and small business support, alongside savings accounts and pension planning. This move underscores a commitment to providing integrated and sustainable financial solutions to enhance the economic independence of military staff.

Trump Threatens Iran over Strait of Hormuz, Peace Negotiations at Risk

US President Donald Trump has escalated pressure on Iran by warning against alleged fees on tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, potentially jeopardising ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the Middle East conflict. While expressing optimism for a deal, Trump highlighted Iran's actions amid reports of disrupted shipping in the vital oil route, which remains far from normal operations despite Iran's claims of safe passages. The situation is complicated by Israeli strikes in Lebanon outside the US-Iran ceasefire talks and Iran's new leader demanding war compensation, raising fears for global energy supplies.

Asia Pacific faces weaker growth and higher inflation from Middle East crisis, ADB warns

The Asian Development Bank warns that the ongoing Middle East conflict is poised to slow economic growth in developing Asia and the Pacific to 4.7 per cent in 2026 from 5.4 per cent last year, while pushing inflation up to 5.6 per cent if hostilities persist through the third quarter. A prolonged crisis lasting a year could shave 1.3 percentage points off regional growth over 2026 and 2027, amid disruptions to trade and energy markets that exacerbate global uncertainties. Policymakers are urged to prioritise inflation control and energy diversification to mitigate these vulnerabilities.

How to Check April 2026 PIP Recipients: Official Link and Disbursement Status

The Indonesian government has expanded the Program Indonesia Pintar (PIP) to include kindergarten students as part of the 13-year compulsory education initiative, with funds disbursed directly to recipients' accounts for educational needs. Parents and students can verify their April 2026 recipient status and disbursement details online via the official PIP website at https://pip.kemendikdasmen.go.id/, where inactive accounts or absence from disbursement decrees may explain delays. This programme underscores the government's commitment to enhancing access to education across all levels.

Minimum Age for Instagram, Facebook, and Threads Raised to 16 Years

Meta has raised the minimum age requirement for accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads to 16 years for users in Indonesia, in compliance with the recently implemented PP Tunas regulation on social media restrictions. Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid confirmed that Meta has officially updated its community guidelines, with the changes rolling out across platforms and set to be fully implemented by Friday. The next phase involves the gradual deactivation of accounts belonging to users under 16, as part of Meta's commitment to adhere to the new rules.

As of Yesterday, Minimum Age for Instagram, Facebook, and Threads is 16 Years

Meta has raised the minimum age requirement for accounts on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads to 16 years old, effective for Indonesian users starting yesterday, in compliance with the PP Tunas social media restriction regulation that took effect at the end of March. Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid confirmed the official update to Meta's community guidelines, with deactivation of underage accounts to follow in phases. This move addresses concerns over youth access to social media, involving over 100 million users and requiring gradual implementation.

Global Gold Prices Rise as Dollar Weakens, Geopolitical Uncertainty Looms Over Markets

Global gold prices surged more than 1% on Thursday (9 April 2026) New York time, driven by a weakening US dollar and investor caution regarding the sustainability of the Middle East ceasefire. Analysts note that while the truce initially boosted gold as a safe-haven asset, signs of fragility in negotiations could reignite conflict, potentially driving up energy costs and global inflation, prompting the Federal Reserve to maintain high interest rates longer. Morgan Stanley forecasts gold prices to stabilise in Q2 2026 before strengthening later in the year, supported by avoided rate hikes and conflict resolution.

Back as Suspect in Oil Procurement Case: The Track Record of Riza Chalid in Various Cases

Indonesian oil tycoon Mohammad Riza Chalid has been named as a suspect and fugitive in a major corruption case involving the procurement of crude oil and refinery products by Pertamina's trading arm Petral from 2008 to 2015, alongside six other suspects. This marks his latest entanglement in high-profile scandals, following his 2025 designation as a suspect in a Rp 285.1 trillion state loss case related to Pertamina's oil governance, where he acted as the beneficial owner of companies leasing fuel terminals. Chalid's repeated involvement in oil-related corruption probes highlights ongoing issues of graft in Indonesia's energy sector and the challenges in apprehending influential figures.

Khofifah Reminds BPBD to Stay Alert in Facing the Godzilla El Niño Phenomenon

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has urged regional disaster mitigation agency heads to prepare for an extreme dry season linked to the Godzilla El Niño phenomenon, emphasising coordinated mitigation efforts to safeguard agriculture and food security. She highlighted the need for anticipatory measures, including the deployment of internal water pumps and the implementation of a digital logistics management system using the First In, First Out (FIFO) method to ensure efficient distribution and quality control. The inauguration of the Gerha Majapahit building and the East Java BPBD sports hall in Sidoarjo marks progress in enhancing logistics governance, operational capabilities, and human resource training for disaster response, with oversight from the East Java High Prosecutor's Office to uphold transparency and accountability.

Shocking Reason Why RSHS Bandung Nurse Handed Baby Nina Saleha Over to Stranger

A mother from Cimahi, Nina Saleha, nearly lost her newborn to a stranger at Rumah Sakit Hasan Sadikin in Bandung when a nurse handed the baby over after failing to get a response from the parents during discharge procedures from the NICU. The incident, which occurred while the baby was recovering from jaundice, has sparked public outrage and calls for investigation into hospital protocols for patient safety. Nina's viral social media post tagging the West Java Governor highlights concerns over the vulnerability of infants in medical facilities and the need for stricter oversight.

Government Prepares Adult Measles Vaccine, Who Can Get It?

The Indonesian government, through the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM), has approved the use of measles vaccines for adults amid ongoing outbreaks in multiple regions, marking a shift from child-focused immunisation programmes. Priority groups include healthcare workers, frequent international travellers, and those in close contact with immunocompromised individuals, with cases among adults accounting for about 8% of the total and posing risks of severe symptoms. This decision, supported by WHO data and real-world evidence, aims to enhance national outbreak control through expanded protection and strengthened surveillance.

NTT BPJN Responds: Red Belt Border Road Project Follows Procedures

The Balai Pelaksanaan Jalan Nasional (BPJN) in East Nusa Tenggara has addressed criticisms surrounding the Red Belt Road project along the Indonesia-Timor Leste border, asserting that all processes from maintenance to tendering complied with regulations. The agency confirmed that 11 damage points will be repaired by contractor PT Lince Maju Jaya KSO before the maintenance period ends in November 2026, while segments from Alas to Haekesak were physically completed in November 2024 and are under supervision until May 2026. Amid allegations of contractor monopoly, BPJN clarified that selections were made transparently via the electronic procurement system, with the winning bid being the lowest corrected offer, aiming to ensure the vital border infrastructure progresses on schedule for improved regional connectivity.

MP: Meta's Compliance with PP Tunas Proves Komdigi's Efforts Yield Results

Amelia Anggraini, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I, has praised Meta's adherence to Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic Systems for Child Protection (PP Tunas) as evidence of the Ministry of Communication and Digital's (Komdigi) successful initiatives. She emphasises that this compliance underscores the state's role in ensuring global digital platforms align with national laws, particularly to safeguard children's safety and development in the digital space. Anggraini calls for consistent enforcement across all platforms, involving government oversight, platform compliance, and parental involvement to create a robust protection system beyond mere regulation.

Japan plans to release extra 20 days' oil reserves from May, PM Takaichi says

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced plans to release an additional 20 days' worth of oil reserves starting in May to maintain stable domestic supply amid Middle East conflicts disrupting global oil routes. The country, which relies on the region for 95 per cent of its oil, is diversifying imports by sourcing from alternative suppliers in the US, Malaysia, Central Asia, Latin America, and Africa, aiming to secure over half of its imports via non-Strait of Hormuz routes by May. This measure builds on earlier releases and includes direct fuel sales to essential sectors like healthcare, transportation, and agriculture to mitigate shortages.

Menekraf Sees Potential of Crypto Assets as Capital to Accelerate Creative Economy Creators

Indonesia's Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, has highlighted the significant potential of Web3 technology and crypto exchanges like ICEx to enable tokenisation of creative assets such as music, films, and intellectual property, providing modern financing alternatives for local creators. During a meeting with ICEx leadership, the minister pledged strategic support through the 'Creative by Indonesia' campaign to elevate the exchange from a national to a regional leader, while ICEx's CEO emphasised Indonesia's strategic market position in the global $3.5 trillion digital asset ecosystem. This collaboration aims to boost digital literacy, integrate AI-driven tokenisation, and position Indonesia as a key player in the global AI and digital economy.

First! Mazda Establishes Mazda Indonesia Training Centre, the Crucible for Forging Talent

PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia has inaugurated the Mazda PIK 2 dealership and the inaugural Mazda Indonesia Training Centre on 8 April 2026, marking a strategic move to bolster its network and human resource capabilities for long-term growth in Indonesia. The training centre, spanning 704 square metres and accommodating over 100 participants, offers structured programmes in product knowledge, technical skills, sales, customer service, and leadership, supported by Mazda Motor Corporation-certified instructors and facilities embodying the company's philosophy. This initiative underscores Mazda's commitment to enhancing dealer competencies and delivering exceptional customer experiences in a key market.

Reasons Behind IHSG's Surge of Nearly 2% to 7,445

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) surged nearly 2% to 7,445 on Friday, driven by strong performances from conglomerates and blue-chip stocks, particularly those in the Barito Group and energy sectors, amid a broader rebound. This rise occurs against a backdrop of fragile Middle East ceasefire tensions, including the limited reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which continues to fuel oil price volatility and global market caution. Asian markets mostly advanced, with US indices closing higher, reflecting investor optimism over easing geopolitical risks despite ongoing uncertainties.

Legislator Criticises Posyandu Budget Allocation in South Jakarta Musrenbang

Jakarta DPRD legislator Nabilah Aboebakar Alhabsyi has criticised the unclear budgeting for Posyandu facilities during the South Jakarta Musrenbang, highlighting how essential needs like tables, chairs, medical equipment, and toddler scales are often overlooked due to poor inter-agency coordination between the Health Department, Puskesmas, and sub-districts. She warns that this lack of integration could undermine Posyandu's vital role in maternal and child health, including nutrition monitoring and stunting prevention, which Governor Pramono Anung aims to reduce by 2027. With 4,481 Posyandu across DKI Jakarta in 2024, Nabilah calls for strengthened cross-sectoral coordination to ensure these community health outposts receive adequate support.

Ministry of Agriculture Facilitates Commitment from Business Actors to Stabilise Soybean Prices, HAP of Rp11,500 Agreed

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture has mediated an agreement between soybean importers and tofu-tempeh producers to maintain price stability by setting a Reference Selling Price (HAP) of Rp11,500 per kilogram at the importer level, ensuring prices at the producer level remain below Rp12,000 amid global geopolitical pressures. Officials have debunked rumours of prices reaching Rp20,000, confirming supplies are adequate and prices controlled, with commitments from all stakeholders to uphold the agreement. The government is also pushing domestic soybean production expansion to reduce import reliance, highlighting efforts to safeguard food security and support local businesses.