Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 April 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,637 articles

PBNU Hopes US-Iran Ceasefire Becomes Permanent: Violence Must Be Stopped

Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) Chairman Gus Yahya has expressed appreciation for the US-Iran ceasefire agreement and urged that it lead to permanent peace, emphasising the need to end all violence amid global geopolitical tensions. He addressed the recent deaths of Indonesian TNI soldiers in Israel's attack on Lebanon and UNIFIL, viewing them as inherent risks of peacekeeping missions, while calling for greater social resilience through community cooperation in Indonesia. Yahya praised Gulf states for not retaliating against Iran and stressed the importance of national unity and the gotong royong tradition to foster mutual aid at the grassroots level.

Indonesian Railways Grow Stronger: INKA Begins Delivering New Locally-Produced Train Carriages

PT Industri Kereta Api (INKA) has delivered the 14th batch of 60 flatbed carriages to PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) as part of a major contract to supply 1,125 units produced in Banyuwangi, underscoring Indonesia's push for domestic railway manufacturing. Meanwhile, KAI has reopened a key double-track bridge in Central Java after intensive repairs to its hydraulic structure, which had previously disrupted 13 train services, enabling gradual restoration of normal operations. These developments highlight the ongoing transformation of Indonesia's rail sector, enhancing capacity, infrastructure resilience, and socio-economic contributions.

KuALA Network Urges Simplification of Licensing System for Fishermen

The KuALA Network, a coalition of civil society organisations advocating for Aceh's seas, has called on central and local governments to streamline the complex and multi-layered licensing system for fishermen, which currently fosters corrupt practices and imposes undue financial burdens. Secretary General Gemal Bakri highlighted the involvement of multiple agencies like the Marine and Fisheries Office, Resource Supervision, and Harbour Master, as well as restrictive regulations such as the 2023 Job Creation Law and fishing quotas that limit operational areas based on vessel size, exacerbating challenges amid declining catches, rising costs, and climate change impacts. The network demands a transparent, one-stop, efficient, and affordable permitting process, along with revisions to unfair regulations to better support small-scale fishermen.

Zero ODOL by 2027: Transport Minister Demands Overloaded Trucks Take Responsibility for Road Damage

Indonesia's Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has called for a collective commitment to achieve zero ODOL—overloaded vehicles—by 2027, emphasising that heavy vehicles breaching load limits must be held accountable for infrastructure damage and operational losses. He highlighted how overloading accelerates road deterioration, shortening infrastructure lifespan from 10 to just 5 years, and stressed the need for mechanisms to enforce responsibility on toll roads and ferries. Coordination with the Public Works Ministry, BPJT, and ferry operators is planned to implement these measures, ensuring heavy vehicles can no longer operate without considering their impacts.

Joint Task Force Cracks Down on Illegal Parking in Puri Kembangan, West Jakarta

Authorities in West Jakarta conducted a joint operation on Friday to address illegal parking in the Puri Kembangan area, following public complaints about the issue. Eight motorcycles were towed, while valves were removed from around 80 vehicles to deter violations, despite the presence of no-parking signs. Officials urged motorists to comply with traffic rules to maintain order and smooth traffic flow.

Sharp Rise in Plastic Prices, Culinary SMEs Most Affected

The recent surge in plastic prices, ranging from 30% to 100%, is posing significant challenges to Indonesia's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in the food and beverage sector that relies heavily on single-use packaging. Experts attribute this increase to global geopolitical conflicts disrupting oil supplies and raw material imports, which account for 60% of Indonesia's plastic production needs. This escalation threatens production costs and profit margins for resource-limited MSMEs, highlighting the vulnerability of the domestic economy to international supply chain disruptions.

Government Halts Chinese-Owned Resort in Berau, Here's Why

The Directorate General of Marine and Fisheries Resources Supervision under the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has temporarily halted the construction of PT Storm Diving Resort, a Chinese foreign investment in Maratua Island, Berau, East Kalimantan, due to the absence of the mandatory Agreement on the Suitability of Marine Space Utilisation Activities (PKKPRL) document. This resort is the only one among 16 on the 43.043 km² island that lacks proper permits, marking it as an illegal operation subject to strict sanctions. The enforcement underscores the government's commitment to upholding sovereignty and legal compliance on Indonesia's small outer islands.

Prabowo stresses law enforcement to protect state assets

President Prabowo Subianto has emphasised the critical role of law enforcement in safeguarding Indonesia's state assets, vowing to use his constitutional powers to combat corruption, smuggling, illegal mining, and abuse of authority impartially. During a visit to the Attorney General's Office, he witnessed the transfer of Rp11.42 trillion in recovered funds from forestry and environmental sectors, part of a larger Rp371.1 trillion retrieved by the Forest Area Enforcement Task Force since February 2025, which will be allocated to enhance schools, housing, and infrastructure. This initiative underscores his commitment to public service, honesty, and nationalism amid anticipated resistance to firm anti-corruption measures.

BBRI Transfers Two Investment Entities Worth Rp1.32 Trillion to Danantara, Here's Why - Financial Business

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BBRI) has transferred ownership of two investment management entities, BRI-MI and PNM-IM, to PT Danantara Asset Management (DAM) in a transaction valued at approximately Rp1.32 trillion, as part of a consolidation effort within the state-owned enterprises (BUMN) ecosystem. The move aims to create a more integrated, competitive, and adaptive asset management company that generates economic and social value aligned with Indonesia's long-term agenda. This consolidation is expected to enhance business synergies, operational efficiency, and the overall strength of the national financial industry.

MP Praises Swift Action by Immigration in Handling Case Involving Foreign National

Franciscus Maria Agustinus Sibarani, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XIII, has commended the rapid response of the West Kalimantan Immigration Office in resolving a conflict involving a foreign national in Ketapang, noting its effectiveness in preventing broader societal tensions and earning praise from local community leaders. He also highlighted the smooth immigration services during the high season from February to March, despite increased passenger traffic. However, Sibarani stressed the need for stronger monitoring of foreign nationals within the country, particularly post-entry surveillance to curb visa overstays and misuse, and urged greater community involvement alongside better utilisation of reporting tools like the APOA application.

Construction Costs Surge Due to Geopolitical Tensions, Gapensi Urges Government to Adjust Prices

The Indonesian National Construction Contractors Association (Gapensi) has raised concerns over a significant rise in construction costs, driven by global geopolitical tensions that have increased energy prices, particularly industrial fuel, leading to a projected 3-8% hike between February and April 2026. Gapensi is calling on the government to implement price adjustments (escalations) for uncontracted projects to prevent substantial losses for contractors, as current reference prices are based on outdated conditions. Additionally, the association advocates for fairer tender processes, greater involvement of national private firms in large-scale projects, and an end to large-scale self-managed schemes that limit participation and create payment uncertainties, amid a noted decline in the number of construction businesses.

PLN distributes food aid to flood-affected residents of Demak

PT PLN (Persero) Unit Induk Distribusi Jawa Tengah has distributed essential food aid to flood victims in Dukuh Solondoko, Desa Trimulyo, Kecamatan Guntur, Kabupaten Demak, demonstrating the company's humanitarian commitment beyond electricity infrastructure restoration. The aid, collected from employee zakat, infak, and sedekah contributions via PLN UP3 Grobogan and Yayasan Baitul Maal, aims to meet basic needs and provide morale support during the emergency. This initiative underscores PLN's role in social and humanitarian programmes, particularly in disaster situations, following the flooding on 3 April caused by breaches in the Sungai Tuntang embankment, which affected 2,116 houses and 7,606 people, with 2,839 evacuees from nine villages across four sub-districts.

13 Service Units Remain in Office During WFH Implementation in Manggarai Barat Regency

The Manggarai Barat Regency Government has introduced a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN), but 13 essential service units and certain high-ranking officials continue to operate from their offices to ensure uninterrupted public services. This arrangement is outlined in a Regent's Circular dated 9 April 2026, which specifies exemptions for critical roles such as department heads and services including emergency response, population administration, health, and education. The policy aims to transform the work culture among ASN while maintaining essential functions amid the WFH rollout.

Officers Thwart Smuggling of 15 kg of Methamphetamine at Bakauheni Port

Lampung Police's Narcotics Directorate successfully intercepted a smuggling operation involving 15.7 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden in an ambulance at Bakauheni Port, arresting four suspects from Tangerang who were promised payments ranging from Rp300,000 to Rp15 million. The seized drugs, valued at approximately Rp22.5 billion, could have potentially harmed around 60,000 individuals, highlighting the severe impact of narcotics trafficking in Indonesia. The suspects face severe penalties under Indonesia's Narcotics Law, including possible death sentences, as authorities continue their investigation.

MP: Komdigi Investigation into Steam is a Swift Response

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I has praised the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi)'s investigation into irregularities in the Indonesia Game Rating System (IGRS) ratings for games on the Steam platform as a quick and appropriate response that safeguards public trust in national digital content oversight. The investigation addresses anomalies, such as PUBG receiving a 3+ rating while Upin Ipin Universe is rated 18+, and aims to strengthen the IGRS through improved verification, self-assessment supervision, and age classification mechanisms to protect children from unsuitable content. This effort is seen as crucial for building a credible, adaptive digital ecosystem in Indonesia that promotes shared responsibility beyond mere regulation.

BRI Distributes IDR 52.1 Trillion in Cash Dividends, Focuses on Strengthening Fundamentals

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has approved a total cash dividend distribution of IDR 52.1 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year, including an interim dividend already paid, reflecting its strong financial performance and commitment to shareholder returns. The decision underscores BRI's robust fundamentals, driven by its core UMKM segment and digital transformation efforts, while contributing to national development through inclusive financing. The Annual General Meeting of Shareholders also approved several other agendas, including financial reports, remuneration, auditor appointments, and amendments to the company's articles of association to comply with new state-owned enterprise regulations.

PTDI and BAT Collaborate to Develop AI and Robotics-Based MRO Human Resources

PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI) and Batam Aero Technic (BAT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on developing human resources for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) that are adaptive to artificial intelligence and robotics technologies. This strategic partnership aims to reduce reliance on foreign after-sales services by optimising domestic resources, enhancing technical competencies, and boosting the competitiveness of Indonesia's aerospace industry. The initiative is expected to improve national efficiency, create new job opportunities, and strengthen the sustainable supply chain in the sector.

Bekasi Civil Servants Experience Benefits of WFH, Savings on Meals and Petrol

The implementation of work-from-home (WFH) policies for civil servants in Bekasi has led to significant savings on daily operational costs, particularly meals and transportation, with one employee estimating monthly savings of around Rp300,000. Despite minor issues like intermittent internet connectivity, the policy maintains productivity through GPS monitoring to ensure effective performance comparable to office work. This initiative underscores the government's push for flexible working arrangements that support employee welfare while upholding professional standards.

BRI AGM Agrees on Cash Dividend Distribution of Rp52.1 Trillion

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has approved a cash dividend distribution of Rp52.1 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year at its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, equivalent to Rp346 per share, including an interim dividend already paid. This decision reflects the bank's solid financial performance, driven by its core UMKM segment and ongoing digital transformation efforts. As part of Danantara, BRI's dividend underscores its commitment to delivering optimal returns to shareholders while contributing to national development through inclusive financial services for small and medium enterprises.

Rekindling the Flame of the Youth Pledge Amid the Identity Crisis of the Young Generation

Himpunan Mahasiswa Islam (HMI) Distrik PIPS organised a reflective commemoration of the Sumpah Pemuda on 28 October 2025 at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, themed 'From Heroic Generation to Patriotic Generation: Rekindling the Flame of the Youth Pledge Amid the Identity Crisis of Youth'. The event featured poetry, traditional dances, critical orations, stand-up comedy, and acoustic performances to address the erosion of national identity due to globalisation and digitalisation, urging young people to actively preserve Indonesian values. This gathering not only fostered solidarity among cadres but also emphasised translating the historical spirit of unity into contemporary action for national resilience.

Video: Indonesia's Economic Projections - Iran Imposes Bitcoin Toll Fees

International institutions, including the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, have presented divergent economic projections for Indonesia in 2026. Meanwhile, the Iranian government has introduced a new policy requiring ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz to pay toll fees using cryptocurrency assets equivalent to $1 per barrel of oil transported. This development highlights emerging intersections between global trade routes and digital currencies.

KPK Examines Bekasi Regency's Head of SDABMBK, Seizes Money Allegedly from Bribery

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned and examined HL, the Head of the SDABMBK Office in Bekasi Regency, as a witness in a bribery case involving private party SRJ (Sarjan). During the examination, investigators seized an undisclosed amount of cash allegedly received by HL from Sarjan, with further probes ongoing to uncover additional receipts. This development ties into a larger case where Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang, his father HM Kunang, and Sarjan have been named suspects for receiving Rp 9.5 billion in advance payments related to a 2026 project.

Jokowi Responds to JK's Move to Report Rismon to Police

President Joko Widodo has positively responded to former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's decision to report Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar to the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency over allegations that Kalla funded efforts to question the authenticity of Widodo's diploma. Widodo praised the move as appropriate, entrusting the legal process to uncover those involved in the hoax without speculating on names. This development highlights ongoing political tensions surrounding persistent rumours about Widodo's educational credentials, now involving high-profile figures in legal action.

Kadin urges entrepreneurs to be more adaptive in responding to global dynamics

The Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) is encouraging local businesses to enhance their adaptability in facing increasingly frequent global uncertainties, viewing such volatility as the new normal. James T Riady, Deputy Chairman of Kadin's Foreign Affairs Coordinating Division, highlights Indonesia's strong medium- to long-term economic prospects, bolstered by its strategic geographic position in international trade routes. He advocates optimising the domestic market as an anti-inflationary and counter-cyclical measure, while praising government initiatives like the free nutritious meal programme, housing, and domestic tourism for supporting economic growth.

Why overtures by President Xi and KMT chair to other Taiwanese parties are unlikely to see breakthrough

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed willingness to collaborate with all Taiwanese political parties on cross-strait relations during a meeting with KMT leader Cheng Li-wun, but analysts highlight significant barriers due to Beijing's insistence on the 1992 Consensus and opposition to Taiwanese independence, which the ruling DPP rejects. Cheng urged cross-party unity in Taiwan to promote peace over partisan rivalry, yet ongoing Chinese military pressures and domestic political dynamics in Taiwan diminish prospects for any breakthrough. This outreach reflects Beijing's dual-track strategy of diplomatic engagement combined with deterrence, amid heightened tensions in the Taiwan Strait.

What is the Impact of the Rupiah's Depreciation on Society

The Indonesian rupiah has remained at around 17,000 per US dollar throughout the week, leading to gradual price increases for imported goods and contributing to inflation, as explained by Universitas Andalas professor Syafruddin Karimi. This depreciation particularly burdens low-income and middle-class households through higher costs for food, medicine, energy, and transportation, exacerbated by elevated global energy prices. Businesses face rising production costs and may initially absorb expenses or reduce product quality before passing on price hikes to consumers, potentially weakening household purchasing power.

Since February 2025, Satgas PKH Has Saved State Assets Worth Rp371 Trillion

Indonesia's Task Force for Forest Area Regulation (Satgas PKH), established in February 2025, has successfully recovered state assets valued at Rp371 trillion through administrative fines, corruption recoveries, and the reclamation of over 5.8 million hectares of forest land. This effort includes six stages of payments from sources such as palm oil export corruption cases, non-tax state revenues from corruption penalties, and the return of mining and plantation-occupied forests, with the latest handover on Friday involving more than five million hectares. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to combating illegal land use in critical forest areas, enhancing environmental protection and bolstering national finances.

Cirebon Regency promotes use of teak leaves as food wrappers

The Cirebon Regency government in West Java is campaigning for the use of teak and banana leaves as alternatives to single-use plastics for food packaging, aiming to reduce plastic waste amid rising plastic prices. This initiative leverages local culinary traditions, such as wrapping nasi jamblang in teak leaves, and involves mapping illegal dumping sites while encouraging collaboration with communities and businesses. Local vendors note that teak leaves preserve cultural identity and provide a cost-effective, eco-friendly option as plastic costs increase.

Prabowo Orders Police Chief to Finance Minister to Prevent Smuggling

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto, and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to take decisive action against smuggling activities that drain state finances. Speaking at an event handing over Rp11.1 billion in administrative forestry fines collected by the PKH Task Force at the Attorney General's Office, Prabowo stressed that law enforcement is essential for safeguarding national wealth and ensuring public prosperity. He acknowledged ongoing challenges, including budget leakages and smuggling, as the government works towards a brighter future for the people.

Cargo volume on Lancang-Mekong route reaches 1.57 million tonnes in 10 years

Over the past decade, the international Lancang-Mekong River shipping route has handled more than 9,400 cargo voyages, transporting 1.5704 million tonnes of import-export cargo valued at 12.718 billion yuan. This vital corridor connecting China with Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia has significantly boosted regional connectivity and trade, with first-quarter 2026 volumes rising 8.7% year-on-year to 70,100 tonnes. The route manages over 2,100 types of goods and accommodates vessels up to 500 tonnes, underscoring its growing importance in Southeast Asian commerce.

KPK Examines Bekasi Regency Water Resources Agency Head Suspected of Receiving Rp2.9 Billion

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has interrogated Henri Lincoln, the Head of the Water Resources, Road Infrastructure, and Construction Agency of Bekasi Regency, over allegations of receiving Rp2.94 billion from businessman Sarjan, who is already a defendant in a broader bribery case. The examination aims to bolster the case file involving suspected project kickbacks and gratuities implicating Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara for the 2025-2030 term and his father H.M. Kunang. This probe highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption in local government infrastructure projects, with Sarjan accused of disbursing over Rp11 billion in bribes to secure contracts.

Central Lombok Transportation Chief Clarifies Statement on CFN Parking Levy

The Head of the Central Lombok Transportation Agency, Baiq Sri Damayanti Wiradharma, has clarified her earlier remarks regarding potential leaks in parking levies during the Car Free Night (CFN) event in Praya, emphasising that the agency is still investigating the involved parties without accusing anyone. She noted that the department is mapping potential parking levy revenues to optimise local revenue sources and is drafting a regent's regulation to support enforcement, building on the existing Regional Regulation No. 10 of 2016. The CFN, a monthly event promoting local UMKM, culture, and community activities, serves as a key initiative by the Central Lombok Tourism Agency to enliven the city at night.

Two Pertamina Ships Detained in Strait of Hormuz, Tugu Insurance Provides Risk Protection

PT Asuransi Tugu Pratama Indonesia Tbk (Tugu Insurance), part of the Pertamina group, has confirmed its readiness to insure two Pertamina tanker ships currently detained in the Strait of Hormuz amid geopolitical tensions. The company is providing coverage through marine hull and cargo insurance, with total liabilities amounting to trillions of rupiah, and has noted slight premium adjustments to manage heightened risks, though no claims have been paid yet. This support underscores efforts to ensure Indonesia's energy security as the ships await clearance to return.

KLH Pushes for Reactivation of Waste Management Facilities in Lampung

The Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLH) is urging the reactivation of inactive waste management facilities in Lampung, where only 68% of 377 facilities are operational, to improve environmental quality and shift from open dumping to controlled landfills. The initiative includes promoting waste sorting at households, enhancing education, and involving private sector CSR, with a joint commitment signed to implement the 3R principles and achieve 100% waste management by 2029. This effort aims to foster cleaner environments, better public health, and sustainable economic growth through tourism and renewable energy.

Discussing Impact of Iran-Israel War, PBNU Chairman to Also Meet Cardinal Suharyo

Yahya Cholil Staquf, Chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama's Central Board (PBNU), plans to meet with religious leaders including Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo of the Indonesian Bishops' Conference and Muhammadiyah officials to discuss the geopolitical ramifications of the ongoing Iran-US-Israel conflict. Amid internal consolidations, PBNU is initiating a movement to enhance social resilience in Indonesia, emphasising collective societal strength to address global challenges. The conflict, which erupted on 28 February 2026 with US-Israel strikes killing Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has seen a two-week ceasefire announced on 8 April 2026, though tensions persist following Israel's attack on Lebanon.

Prabowo Orders Police Chief, TNI Commander, and Finance Minister to Halt Smuggling

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, the TNI Commander, General Agus Subiyanto, and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to intensify efforts against smuggling activities to prevent financial leakages from the state coffers. Speaking at the handover of Rp11.4 trillion in administrative forest fines collected by the PKH Task Force at the Attorney General's Office, Prabowo emphasised that the law must serve as an instrument to safeguard national wealth, which is essential for public prosperity. He acknowledged ongoing challenges, including budget leakages and smuggling, underscoring the long journey ahead to achieve national welfare.

INTP Secures Gold PROPER for Processing Thousands of Tonnes of Waste into Alternative Fuel

PT Indocement Tunggal Prakarsa (INTP) has achieved a significant milestone by earning the Gold PROPER award from the Ministry of Environment for its environmental efforts in 2026. This recognition highlights the company's innovative use of technology to process thousands of tonnes of waste into alternative fuel, addressing decarbonisation challenges and improving energy efficiency in the cement industry. The award underscores INTP's commitment to reducing carbon footprints and advancing sustainable production amid global emission reduction targets.

Yusril: Proposal from Vice President on Andrie Yunus Case to Be Discussed with Supreme Court

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has announced that the government will discuss Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's proposal for ad hoc judges in the acid attack case against KontraS activist Andrie Yunus with the Supreme Court. The case involves four TNI soldiers from the Strategic Intelligence Agency, with no civilian suspects identified yet, meaning it will be tried in a military court under current laws. This development highlights ongoing efforts to ensure fair handling of human rights-related incidents involving military personnel.

Minimal Water Investment, Impacts Spreading to Economy and Human Resources

Indonesia faces significant challenges in water infrastructure investment, requiring Rp 3,000–4,000 trillion to provide comprehensive clean water services, amid a global water crisis affecting 2.2 billion people without safe drinking water access. According to UN envoy Retno Marsudi, every US$1 invested in water yields US$4.5 in returns across economic growth, health, education, gender equality, and climate resilience, yet private sector interest remains low due to perceived high risks and low profits. Innovations like trenchless pipe installation are crucial for urban areas like Jakarta, where excessive groundwater use causes land subsidence of up to 30 cm annually, highlighting the need for ecosystem protection and accelerated funding to mitigate broader economic and human resource impacts.

Story of a Survivor of Illness Who Struggles to Get a Priority Seat on the KRL Because They Look Fit

In the crowded KRL commuter trains of Jabodetabek, priority seats intended for those in need often highlight a lack of empathy in urban public spaces, as illustrated by Thalib, a 55-year-old heart disease survivor from Jatineganga who is frequently denied seats because he appears healthy. Expert Deddy emphasises that this issue stems from a failure in early character education, leading to moral degradation, and argues that regulations alone are insufficient without public awareness and discipline. The incident underscores broader societal challenges in fostering solidarity and social consciousness amid the pressures of city life.

Bulog's 2kg SPHP Rice Ready for Launch, Just Awaiting This

The Indonesian government is preparing to introduce 2kg packaging for its Stabilisation of Food Supply and Price (SPHP) rice programme through Perum Bulog, aiming to better reach low-income households who struggle with larger 5kg packs. This initiative, aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's focus on supporting the underprivileged, has been enabled by a recent Bapanas regulation and is expected to enhance targeted food aid distribution without significantly altering subsidy costs. The programme, which began in March 2026 with a target of 828,000 tonnes and Rp4.97 trillion in subsidies, has already distributed 82.8 million kg, contributing to moderated rice inflation at 0.65% monthly and 3.71% annually.

Cibeet and Cijuray Dam Projects Accelerated, Completion Targeted for 2027-2028

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works is prioritising the construction of the Cibeet and Cijuray dams to control flooding in Karawang and Bekasi, with completion targeted for 2027-2028 to mitigate ongoing flood risks. In contrast, the Gedebage-Tasikmalaya-Cilacap (Getaci) toll road project, set to be Indonesia's longest, faces delays due to low investor interest stemming from insufficient traffic volumes. Limited government funding has forced a reevaluation of priorities, favouring flood prevention over the toll road to ensure regional safety and development.

PDIP Views Hajj 'Ticket Auction' Discourse as Potentially Causing Controversy

The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) has cautioned that the proposed 'war tiket' or ticket auction system for Hajj pilgrimages could spark controversy if not managed with fairness, emphasising the need to prioritise the existing queue of around 5 million applicants as mandated by Law No. 14 of 2025. PDIP lawmaker Selly Gantina highlighted risks of speculation and unhealthy commercialisation without strong governance, suggesting the scheme be limited to supplementary options like for the elderly or disabled without undermining queued pilgrims' rights. This comes as the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah explores radical solutions to decades-long waiting times, drawing from pre-BPKH eras when no queues existed.

Schools in Bali Urged to Manage Waste Independently, Disdikpora: For Education

Schools in Bali have been directed by the Education, Youth, and Sports Office (Disdikpora) to handle their waste management independently as part of the Gerakan Indonesia ASRI initiative, aiming to instil environmental awareness in students from an early age. The programme, which predates recent issues at the Suwung landfill, emphasises education on waste sorting, processing, and composting, rather than burdening students with menial tasks. Additionally, the circular promotes school-based food sovereignty through activities like planting vegetables and fruits, fostering a culture of cleanliness and self-sufficiency in educational environments.

Indonesian government regains 5 million hectares of forest land

The Indonesian government has reclaimed 5,888,260.07 hectares of forest land from the palm oil sector and 10,297.22 hectares from mining activities since February 2025, with a symbolic handover ceremony in Jakarta led by Attorney General ST Burhanuddin to Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni and Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa in the presence of President Prabowo Subianto. This includes significant areas of conservation and production forests across regions like West Kalimantan, Aceh, and Bogor, with portions transferred to the sovereign wealth fund Danantara and state-owned PT Agrinas Palma Nusantara. The initiative underscores the importance of robust law enforcement against forest crimes to recover state assets, enhance governance, and foster a healthier business climate for the national economy.

Azko (ACES) Dividend Leaks

PT Aspirasi Hidup Indonesia Tbk (ACES), operating under the Azko brand, has not yet announced its 2025 fiscal year dividends but maintains a minimum dividend payout ratio policy of 50%, as revealed during an analyst gathering. Based on the share price of Rp 350, this indicates a potential dividend yield of 5.6-8.1%. The company projects positive growth for 2026, including same-store sales growth of 2-4% year-on-year, revenue growth of 6-8%, and expansion with 25-30 new Azko stores and 40-50 new Neka stores, alongside capping advertising expenses at 1.5% of revenue.

Prabowo Urges Attorney General to Prosecute Uncooperative Businesspeople

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the Attorney General to pursue criminal charges against businesspeople who defy regulations and harm Indonesia's interests, citing examples like illegal mining operations that continue despite revoked permits. He emphasised that such defiance mocks the nation's independence and warned that these rogue entrepreneurs may fund opposition movements, but affirmed the government's resolve to uphold justice. During the event, Prabowo witnessed the return of Rp 11.4 trillion to the state coffers from various fines and recoveries related to forestry, corruption, and environmental penalties.

Gaspol Today: Are Indonesia-Iran Relations at Their Lowest Point?

Former Indonesian Ambassador to Iran, Dian Wirengjurit, has warned that bilateral relations between Indonesia and Iran are at their nadir, primarily due to Indonesia's decision to join the Board of Peace alongside the United States and Israel, which he accuses of initiating conflict with Iran. He criticises the Indonesian government for abandoning principles of non-alignment, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the D8 group, urging a firm stance in support of Iran to secure passage for Pertamina's vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Dian highlights the absence of official condemnation from Jakarta against US and Israeli attacks on Iran, emphasising the need for a clear expression of regret over the ongoing war.

Indonesia calls for global standardisation in music and song royalty management

The Indonesian government has urged international organisations such as WIPO, CISAC, and IFPI to establish global standards for the transparent and accountable governance of music royalty collection and distribution. Speaking at the inaugural ASEAN Collecting Management Organizations (CMO) Forum in Bali, Minister of Law Supratman Andi Agtas highlighted the need for accurate royalty distribution amid real-time exploitation of works across jurisdictions, while Indonesia focuses on regulatory oversight rather than direct management. The forum, initiated by Indonesia's Directorate General of Intellectual Property, fosters collaboration among ASEAN countries to enhance fairness and transparency in digital music royalties.

Jusuf Kalla Inaugurates As-Sholihin Mosque in Yokohama, Japan

Former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla inaugurated the As-Sholihin Mosque in Yokohama, Japan, marking the first Indonesian mosque in the city to address the long-standing need for a worship place among the Muslim community. The project, funded through widespread donations from over a million Muslims from Indonesia and other countries, exemplifies cross-national gotong royong spirit and received broad support from Indonesian society, public figures, artists, and influencers. Kalla highlighted the mosque's role in fostering unity among diverse Islamic groups, promoting education and progress, while praising Japanese societal values that align with Islamic ethics as lessons for Indonesians.