Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 April 2026

Showing 401-450 of 1,637 articles

President Appreciates Role of Forest Area Regulation Task Force in Saving State Assets

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed deep appreciation for the Forest Area Regulation Task Force (Satgas PKH) for their dedication in recovering state forests and safeguarding national finances during the sixth phase handover ceremony at the Attorney General's Office in Jakarta. He highlighted the challenges faced by the task force, including threats and intimidation, and criticised bureaucratic elements that misuse authority to aid illegal activities such as smuggling, illegal mining, and plantations. Prabowo reaffirmed the government's full commitment to protecting the task force, equating any interference with opposition to the state itself, and vowed to stand firm in preserving national wealth for the people's welfare.

First ASN WFH on Friday: Situation in Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Public Works

The Indonesian government has implemented a policy requiring civil servants (ASN) to work from home every Friday to save on state budget and fuel amid global tensions from the Middle East conflict, starting today. While the Ministry of Finance appears quieter with fewer staff, the Ministry of Public Works has opted out of WFH to maintain full operational capacity for infrastructure and disaster response duties, instead focusing on energy-saving measures like reducing electricity and air conditioning use after hours. This approach highlights efforts to balance efficiency with essential public services in key government sectors.

Market Traders Forced to Manage Waste Themselves, Perumda Prepares Market Waste Processing Site

In Denpasar, market traders are now required to independently manage organic waste due to high production volumes, as announced by Perumda Pasar Sewakadarma, which is preparing a dedicated waste processing site. While inorganic waste and residues continue to be collected, stricter monitoring via staff and CCTV is in place to enforce compliance, with initial penalties limited to warnings rather than fines. Traders have expressed complaints about the lack of space for processing, but the policy aims to promote waste sorting and eventual conversion into fertiliser or planting media.

Extortionist Targeting Ahmad Sahroni Claims to be Head of KPK Enforcement Bureau

A woman impersonating a representative of the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) attempted to extort Rp 300 million from Indonesian parliamentarian Ahmad Sahroni, claiming to act on behalf of KPK leadership. Sahroni verified the claim with the KPK, which denied sending any such envoy, prompting him to coordinate with the anti-corruption body and Metro Jaya Police for the suspect's arrest after handing over the money at her residence. The incident, reported to police on 9 April 2026, highlights vulnerabilities to impersonation scams exploiting public institutions in Indonesia.

Market Awaits Outcome of US-Iran Negotiations in Pakistan, IHSG Strengthens Successfully

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) closed higher by 2.07% at 7,458.50 on Friday, buoyed by gains on Wall Street amid ongoing US-Iran diplomatic talks in Islamabad to resolve the six-week Middle East conflict. Market participants remain cautious due to continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, while awaiting US inflation data and Fed minutes that highlight inflation pressures potentially leading to further rate hikes. Domestically, consumer confidence dipped to its lowest since October 2025, yet ten sectoral indices advanced, led by the industrial sector's 4.09% rise.

Finance Minister Meets Gaikindo, Discusses Automotive Incentives for 2026?

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa held a meeting with the Indonesian Automotive Industry Association (Gaikindo) to discuss strengthening the domestic automotive market and accelerating the transition to electric and hybrid vehicles, highlighting positive trends in the first quarter of 2026. While government commitments to global competitiveness and emission reductions were emphasised, details on extending automotive incentives for the 2026 fiscal year remain unclear, with Gaikindo advocating for consumer-targeted stimuli to boost demand amid expiring prior benefits. This dialogue underscores the ongoing synergy between policy and industry to position Indonesia prominently in the global electric vehicle supply chain.

Minister of Public Works says his office was searched by prosecutors

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo confirmed that prosecutors from the Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office searched his office and that of Deputy Minister Diana Kusumastuti on Thursday, granting full access to all ministry rooms to demonstrate cooperation and avoid any perception of selective enforcement. He obtained special permission from President Prabowo Subianto before allowing the search, who approved it promptly, underscoring the government's commitment to transparency in legal processes. While unaware of the specific criminal case involved, Hanggodo noted that documents related to audits and a PC from one directorate were seized, emphasising the ministry's support for independent investigations to uphold accountability in state budget management.

MRT to Monas to be Completed Next Year, Balaraja-Cikarang Construction to Start in 2026

The Jakarta MRT North-South Phase 2 project is on track for completion next year, extending services to the Monas area to enhance connectivity in the city centre for government and tourism activities. Meanwhile, construction of the long-planned East-West MRT line, connecting Balaraja to Cikarang, will commence this year with an initial focus on segments within Jakarta to ensure measured progress. These developments are key priorities in improving mass transportation across the Jabodetabek metropolitan area, addressing high mobility demands efficiently.

Komnas HAM pushes for TGPF formation to enhance transparency in Adrie Yunus case

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has urged the formation of a Joint Fact-Finding Team (TGPF) to improve transparency and accountability in the investigation of the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus. Commissioner Amiruddin al Rahab highlighted that the TGPF would bridge public doubts about the military's handling of the case while ensuring a thorough and balanced probe that extends beyond initial suspects. This initiative is seen as crucial for upholding principles of justice, witness protection, and public trust in Indonesia's legal processes.

Deputy Finance Minister Prepares 4 Strategies to Safeguard State Revenue

Indonesia's Deputy Finance Minister, Juda Agung, has outlined four key strategies to manage state revenue amid global uncertainties impacting the 2026 economic outlook, particularly rising fuel subsidy expenditures. These pillars include strengthening the structural tax base, enhancing compliance through digital transformation, balancing revenue with economic growth, and improving human resource capabilities in fiscal administration. The approach aims to ensure sustainable fiscal management without overburdening compliant taxpayers, supporting national competitiveness and job creation.

OJK: Insurance Investment Returns Surge Due to Improved Financial Market Conditions

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports a significant surge in insurance investment returns as of February 2026, with life insurance yields jumping 245.44% year-on-year to Rp9.37 trillion and general insurance up 18.47% to Rp1.40 trillion, driven by recovering financial markets. While premium income for life insurance showed modest growth and health claims continue to rise, impacting profits, the overall industry is projected to maintain positive and sustainable expansion amid economic uncertainties. OJK emphasises the need for balanced performance across premiums, underwriting, and investments to ensure long-term stability.

Blue Food and Strong Fishermen, Indonesia Sovereign

This opinion piece highlights the resilience and economic contributions of Indonesia's small-scale fishermen, noting their consistent surplus in the Fishermen's Exchange Rate (NTN) over the past five years despite challenges like fluctuating catches and prices. It argues that traditional welfare metrics undervalue their progress, pointing to rising education levels among fishermen's families and a 14% increase in catches to 7.5 million tonnes in 2025 as evidence of growing prosperity. The author calls for a more comprehensive welfare index incorporating assets, skills, market conditions, and productivity to better reflect the sector's strength and support national food sovereignty.

DPR Member Urges Government to Control Commercialisation of Groundwater

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VII, Hendry Munief, has called on the government to tighten oversight and evaluate permits for the commercialisation of groundwater by bottled water companies and other industries, citing concerns over excessive exploitation that could damage the environment and disrupt clean water supplies for communities. He emphasised the need to preserve groundwater for future generations, ensure equitable access, and maintain environmental sustainability, warning that uncontrolled practices might lead to water crises affecting agriculture, industry, and public health. Hendry also advocated for monitoring extraction, involving local SMEs in distribution, and equitable CSR distribution, underscoring that water is a right to life rather than merely a commodity.

Soekarno-Hatta Airport Police Uncover Scam Admin Recruitment Syndicate to Laos

Police at Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Tangerang have dismantled a syndicate recruiting individuals to work as scam administrators in Laos under the guise of cryptocurrency marketing jobs. One suspect, NS, has been arrested, while Y has been declared a fugitive; the operation involved deceiving six prospective migrant workers via a WhatsApp group and facilitating their illegal travel. The perpetrators face up to 10 years in prison under Indonesia's Law on the Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and online fraud networks.

Rising Plastic Prices Pressure SMEs and Shift Industry Towards Recycling

The recent surge in plastic prices, driven by global supply chain disruptions from Middle East conflicts affecting naphtha distribution, has significantly pressured Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in the food and beverage sector reliant on single-use packaging. Prices have risen by 30 to 80 per cent domestically, exacerbating production costs and eroding profits for these businesses amid Indonesia's heavy dependence on imports. In response, industries are increasingly adopting recycled materials to substitute virgin plastics, highlighting the need for greater self-sufficiency in raw materials.

First WFH Day for Civil Servants, Public Service Offices in West Jakarta Operate Normally

On the inaugural day of work-from-home (WFH) implementation for civil servants (ASN) in Jakarta every Friday, public services at the Srengseng Community Health Centre and Sub-District Office in Kembangan, West Jakarta, proceeded without disruption. Residents and local officials reported no issues in administrative processing or healthcare services, thanks to dedicated on-site staff and backup teams exempt from the WFH policy. This arrangement underscores the Jakarta Provincial Government's commitment to maintaining essential public services amid the new flexible work directive.

AWG welcomes US-Iran ceasefire, calls for global oversight

The Aqsa Working Group (AWG) has welcomed the two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it becomes permanent to foster regional and global stability, particularly as Muslims prepare for the Hajj season. The organisation praised Pakistan's mediation role and urged the United Nations and international community to monitor compliance, especially by Israel, while condemning ongoing violence in Gaza and Israeli policies in the Middle East as apartheid and racism that undermine global justice and peace. AWG also denounced recent Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon as genocidal crimes, calling for Israel to be tried at the International Court.

Google Releases ChromeOS Flex, a Cheap USB Stick to Revive Old Laptops

Google has launched the ChromeOS Flex USB Kit, priced at just $3, designed to install the lightweight ChromeOS Flex operating system on older PCs and Macs from 2010 or earlier, breathing new life into obsolete hardware. This cloud-based OS offers a simpler, more universal alternative to the full ChromeOS found on Chromebooks, though it lacks support for Android apps and has limited Linux compatibility, making it suitable for basic tasks rather than heavy computing like video editing or gaming. The kit, available via partner Back Market, includes installation guides and tutorials, providing an affordable way to extend the usability of old devices without the need for new purchases.

Unsold Getaci Toll Road Auction Leads to Budget Reallocation to Dams

The Indonesian government is redirecting funds from the stalled Gedebage-Tasikmalaya-Cilacap (Getaci) toll road project, which has failed to attract investors due to low traffic projections, towards more urgent infrastructure initiatives. Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo highlighted the limited fiscal space for subsidising the toll road, opting instead to accelerate the construction of the Cibeet and Cijurey dams to mitigate flooding risks in Karawang and Bekasi. This decision underscores the government's prioritisation of flood control over less viable transport projects amid budgetary constraints.

41 Large Plecostomus Fish Captured in Canal in Front of Plaza Indonesia

Authorities in Jakarta have captured and destroyed 41 large invasive plecostomus fish from the Cideng Canal to protect the local ecosystem and public health. The Head of the DKI Jakarta Agriculture, Food Security, and Fisheries Office explained that the fish, known for their resilience and ability to thrive in polluted waters, pose a threat by disrupting aquatic balance and potentially carrying harmful bacteria from waste. This initiative, following a similar effort in the Ciliwung River, aims to educate residents against consuming such fish and improve the health of urban waterways, with plans for further captures in contaminated areas.

Finance Minister Explores Option of Swapping PNM with Geo Dipa for KUR Distribution

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa is considering swapping PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) with PT Geo Dipa Energi as part of the government's plan to take over PNM from Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) to enhance Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) distribution for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Under the Ministry of Finance, PNM would shift from a profit-oriented model to a comprehensive ecosystem focused on sustainable financing for MSMEs, potentially transforming into a dedicated UMKM bank with Rp200 trillion in capital within five years using Rp40 trillion in KUR funds. The proposal has received initial support from President Prabowo Subianto, though further discussions with Danantara are ongoing to refine the scheme.

Video: To Address Unit Link Mis-Selling Cases, Insurance Needs 3 New Rules

Rista Qatrini Manurung, Director of Legal and Compliance at AIA Financial, has identified mis-selling in unit-linked insurance products (PAYDI or Unit Link) as stemming from contributions by insurance companies, agents, and customers themselves. She advocates for collaborative efforts among stakeholders and the introduction of three new regulatory measures: rules on conditional accountability with controlled authorisation, and 25 mitigation efforts to improve insurance governance. However, pushing these reforms faces challenges including lengthy regulatory changes and the time, commitment, and costs required for implementation.

1% Bioavtur to Take Effect in 2027 Exclusively at These 2 Airports

The Indonesian government has set a target to implement a 1% bioavtur blend in aviation fuel starting in 2027, initially at Soekarno-Hatta and I Gusti Ngurah Rai airports, as part of a broader strategy to phase in biofuel utilisation by 2030. This policy, outlined in a Ministerial Decree from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, mandates fuel companies to mix vegetable-based fuels into various commercial fuels, including biodiesel, bioethanol, and diesel biohydrocarbon. The initiative aims to promote sustainable energy practices nationwide, with escalating blend percentages for different fuel types over the coming years.

Ministry of Public Works Raided, Dody Hanggodo Reveals GERD Diagnosis: My Stress

Indonesian Minister of Public Works, Dody Hanggodo, has disclosed suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) amid ongoing legal proceedings and a raid on his ministry by investigators. He expressed surprise at the search, which seized documents from his office, but affirmed full cooperation, granting investigators unrestricted access to all rooms without seeking further details on the matter. This incident underscores the pressures on government officials navigating legal scrutiny while maintaining operational duties.

Pertamina Hulu Energi Targets Oil Production of 595,000 Barrels Per Day by 2026

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE) aims to achieve oil production of 595,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 2026, marking an increase of 38,000 bpd from the 2025 realisation of 557,000 bpd, with contributions from domestic operations, overseas wells, and mergers and acquisitions. The company also targets gas production of 2.81 billion standard cubic feet per day (BSCFD), addressing challenges like a 24% decline rate in oil wells through asset revitalisation, enhanced oil recovery technologies, and increased exploration activities. This strategy underscores PHE's efforts to sustain and expand Indonesia's upstream oil and gas sector amid maturing fields.

How Coffee Entrepreneurs Maintain Brew Quality as the Climate Becomes Unpredictable

Indonesia's coffee industry is adapting to unpredictable climate changes through government-university collaborations focused on science-based resilience, as seen in the partnership between the Ministry of Environment and Hasanuddin University to integrate climate education into community programs. State-owned PTPN IV PalmCo has adjusted its coffee harvesting schedules due to excessive rainfall in early 2026, yet achieved a pre-tax profit of Rp3.43 billion in the first quarter, highlighting the sector's financial resilience amid production challenges like reduced sunlight affecting fruit ripening. This underscores the broader economic implications of climate variability on agriculture and the need for adaptive strategies to sustain quality and profitability.

Unhas and Anhui Fuxin Collaborate to Attract Chinese International Students

Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas) in Makassar has partnered with Anhui Fuxin Education Consulting Co Ltd to significantly increase the number of Chinese students pursuing education at the university. The collaboration aims to strengthen cross-border educational ties, enhance academic capacity, facilitate student mobility, and integrate with global education and industry ecosystems, building on the existing presence of around 40 Chinese students at Unhas. This initiative is expected to foster joint research, programme development, and industry involvement, including internships and collaborative research opportunities.

NTB Provincial Government: Meta's Age Limit Protects Children in Digital Space

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government has welcomed Meta's new policy restricting access to its platforms—Facebook, Instagram, and Threads—to users aged 16 and above, in compliance with Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on electronic system governance for child protection. This measure is seen as a vital step in safeguarding vulnerable children from digital risks such as misinformation, privacy breaches, and harmful content, while emphasising the need for educational and cultural initiatives alongside administrative enforcement. Officials stress the importance of family involvement, village-level education through religious and community leaders, and ongoing campaigns to ensure the policy fosters a healthier, more responsible digital ecosystem in Indonesia.

PDI-P Politician: Hajj "War Ticket" Could Be an Additional Option

Selly Andriany Gantina, head of the PDI-P faction in the DPR RI's Commission VIII, has suggested that the "war ticket" system for Hajj pilgrimage could serve as a supplementary option, but only after prioritising the approximately 5 million pilgrims currently waiting in line. She stressed that the existing queue-based system, governed by Law No. 14 of 2025 on Hajj Organisation, ensures fairness and must not be undermined, proposing limited application for vulnerable groups like the elderly and disabled to uphold social justice. The PDI-P faction is prepared to discuss a comprehensive and equitable approach with the government.

Who is Mohammad Ghalibaf, Iran's Chief Negotiator with the US?

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of Iran's Parliament, is set to lead negotiations with the United States in Islamabad, Pakistan, starting on Saturday, marking a significant diplomatic engagement amid ongoing tensions. As a hardliner with pragmatic tendencies and close ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Ghalibaf's background includes military leadership during the Iran-Iraq War, controversial roles in suppressing protests, and administrative positions as police chief and mayor of Tehran. His appointment underscores Pakistan's emerging role as a mediator and highlights the evolving influence of IRGC-linked figures in Iranian politics following the deaths of several senior leaders.

Differing Views of Two Ministers on World Bank Release

The World Bank has lowered its projection for Indonesia's economic growth in 2026 from 4.8% to 4.7% of GDP, prompting contrasting responses from two ministers in President Prabowo Subianto's cabinet. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa sharply criticised the forecast as erroneous and anticipates an apology from the bank once global oil prices stabilise, while Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto views the adjustment as reasonable amid Middle East conflicts and remains optimistic about Indonesia's performance exceeding global averages. This divergence highlights ongoing tensions between government confidence and international assessments, influenced by external factors like oil price volatility.

Engineering of Follow-Up Reports from Residents in JAKI App, Transportation Officers Sanctioned

South Jakarta Transportation Sub-Department has apologised for manipulating the follow-up on a resident's report via the JAKI app, resulting in a warning letter for the involved officer. The incident involved mismatched photo timestamps, highlighting administrative lapses in handling parking violations and street vendor issues. The department commits to enhancing oversight and ensuring accountable, consistent enforcement to prevent recurrence.

Indonesia's Health Ministry reviews near baby mix-up in Bandung

Indonesia's Health Ministry is reviewing a near baby mix-up incident at Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Bandung, where a mother briefly left her infant with a health worker during administrative procedures, only to find the child handed to another person due to a misunderstanding. The ministry has clarified that no criminal intent was involved, emphasizing the importance of adhering to standard operating procedures and not leaving infants unattended, while the hospital has issued an apology and plans a comprehensive evaluation. This event, which went viral on social media, underscores potential vulnerabilities in hospital protocols for child safety and patient care.

Mendukbangga: Family Development Involves the Entire Life Cycle

Indonesia's Minister of Population and Family Development, Wihaji, has emphasised that family development must encompass the full life cycle from pre-marriage to old age, focusing on equipping the younger generation with knowledge on family resilience. This approach builds eight key family functions—religious, loving, socio-cultural, protective, reproductive, socialising and educational, economic, and environmental—to create quality families with physical, economic, social, and psychological resilience, ultimately contributing to quality human resources for Indonesia's Golden 2045 vision. A collaboration agreement was signed between the ministry and UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung to integrate these efforts into higher education through the Tri Dharma Perguruan Tinggi.

Constitutional Court Judge Liliek Prisbawono Adi Has Assets Worth Rp5.9 Billion

Liliek Prisbawono Adi, the replacement Constitutional Court (MK) judge for Anwar Usman, reported total assets of Rp5.9 billion to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) as of January 15, 2026. His wealth primarily consists of four properties valued at Rp5.28 billion, vehicles worth Rp756 million, and other movable assets, cash equivalents, minus outstanding debts. This marks a reduction of approximately Rp1.64 billion from his reported assets of Rp7.59 billion in January 2025, highlighting transparency in judicial officials' financial disclosures amid ongoing anti-corruption efforts.

Prabowo Delivers Speech in Front of Seized Cash Pile Worth Rp 11.4 Trillion

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the handover of Rp 11.4 trillion in seized funds from the Forest Area Regulation Task Force to the state treasury, originating from forestry administrative fines, corruption recoveries, and environmental penalties. In his speech before the cash pile, Prabowo praised the task force for safeguarding national assets and highlighted that this marks the third such recovery under his 1.5-year administration, bringing the total returned funds to approximately Rp 31.3 trillion. This event underscores the government's ongoing efforts to combat corruption and recover state assets, particularly in the forestry and palm oil sectors.

Purbaya Comments on the Asset Swap Involving PNM and Geo Dipa

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed discussions with PT Geo Dipa Energi regarding a potential asset swap to facilitate the transfer of PT Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM) from BP Danantara to the Ministry of Finance as a public service agency. With President Prabowo Subianto's approval, PNM is set to be transformed into a dedicated SME bank under the ministry, focusing on KUR distribution and building an integrated ecosystem for comprehensive SME support, including advisory, training, marketing, and credit guarantees. This move aims to enhance SME growth, though details of the swap remain under negotiation.

The Rooms Searched by the DKI Attorney General's Office are the Minister's and Deputy Minister's Work Offices

Prosecutors from the DKI Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office searched the work offices of Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo and Deputy Minister Diana Kusumastuti on Thursday as part of an investigation into alleged corruption in the 2023–2024 budget procurement. Minister Dody confirmed the search, stating he had granted permission and even sought approval from President Prabowo Subianto beforehand, with investigators seizing 16 items, mostly notebooks and documents, primarily from the Cipta Karya building. This raid underscores ongoing anti-corruption efforts targeting high-level government officials in Indonesia's infrastructure ministry.

Bogor City Council Finalises Draft Regional Regulation on OPD Restructuring for Service Efficiency

The Bogor City Council in West Java has completed deliberations on a draft regional regulation to restructure local government agencies (OPD) aimed at enhancing bureaucratic efficiency and public service delivery through a "lean structure, rich function" approach. Key changes include integrating the public hospital into the Health Department, elevating the status of women's empowerment and population control services to Type A, and expanding the housing and settlements agency to include land affairs. These reforms, aligned with provincial guidance, are set for final approval in a plenary session to ensure tangible improvements in service quality and responsiveness.

To Tackle Jakarta's Air Pollution, Environment Minister Pushes for Industrial Zone Relocation

Indonesia's Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has outlined comprehensive strategies to combat severe air pollution in Jakarta and surrounding areas, including relocating 48 industrial zones outside the region, transitioning to clean energy, and cracking down on open burning. These measures address major contributors like industrial emissions (30-35%), high vehicle numbers with high-sulfur fuels, and open burning (17%), in response to a 2024 Supreme Court ruling on a citizen lawsuit. The initiatives, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, also promote biodiesel B50 and electric vehicles to improve air quality and meet legal obligations.

Moments of the 'Mountain' of Seized Funds Worth Rp11 Trillion Handed Over to the State

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) symbolically handed over seized state funds and administrative fines totaling Rp11.42 trillion to the government, witnessed by President Prabowo Subianto during an event in Jakarta. The funds, stacked in a massive pile, stem from anti-corruption efforts, forest reclamation, and environmental penalties, including Rp7.2 trillion from administrative fines and Rp1.9 trillion from corruption handling. Prabowo praised the task force's efforts and warned of resistance from those harmed by the government's firm stance against corruption, underscoring the administration's commitment to safeguarding public interests.

Purbaya Reviews New Electric Vehicle Incentives, Electric Motorcycles Still Under Discussion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has revealed that the Indonesian government is actively reviewing new incentive options for electric vehicles, encompassing both cars and motorcycles, amid ongoing inter-ministerial coordination. Discussions with the Indonesian Automotive Industry Association (Gaikindo) and the Ministry of Industry continue, with no final decisions yet on the form of these fiscal supports, aimed at bolstering the domestic automotive market and accelerating the shift to electric and hybrid vehicles. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to enhancing competitiveness and driving sustainable transitions in the national automotive sector.

Astra's Market Share in Indonesian Car Market Falls Below 50%

PT Astra International Tbk's dominance in Indonesia's automotive market has weakened, with its market share dropping to 47% in the first quarter of 2026, down from 52% in January and below the psychological 50% threshold. Total Astra group sales reached 101,613 units against a national total of 209,021 units, as non-Astra brands aggressively captured 107,408 units, marking a shift towards a more competitive market structure. Despite challenges during Ramadan and Eid, Astra remains the leader and plans to focus on product development and services to sustain the national automotive industry.

Indonesia eyes Middle East to reduce steel export reliance

Indonesia is actively seeking to diversify its steel export markets, particularly targeting the Middle East, to lessen its heavy dependence on China and bolster the resilience of its domestic steel industry amid potential economic risks. In 2025, the country achieved steel exports worth US$29.7 billion, predominantly to China, alongside a trade surplus of 7.28 million tons in steel and metal products, though challenges persist from global overcapacity and restrictive policies. The government is responding by enhancing trade remedies, enforcing standards, promoting green steel, and fostering downstream investments to sustain industry growth.

Prabowo: Threatening PKH Task Force is Threatening the President of Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed strong support for the Forest Area Regulation Task Force (Satgas PKH) in their efforts to recover state finances, highlighting the challenges they face due to Indonesia's archipelago geography and threats of intimidation. He warned that any threats or obstructions against the task force are equivalent to threats against himself as President and the execution of his duties. Over the past 18 months, their work with the Attorney General's Office has recovered Rp31.3 trillion, enough to renovate 34,000 schools across the country.

Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection monitors legal process in Navy stray bullet incident injuring two children in Gresik

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA) is closely monitoring the legal proceedings at the Navy's V Military Police Command regarding an incident where a stray bullet allegedly injured two children during a school event in Gresik, East Java. The ministry is coordinating with local child protection units to ensure the process is professional, transparent, and prioritises justice and the best interests of the child victims, who are still recovering physically and require further mental health assessments. This case highlights the government's commitment to child protection in incidents involving military actions, underscoring the need for accountability in such matters.

Bandung City Government Implements WFH First, Public Services Continue to Operate

The Bandung City Government has begun implementing work-from-home (WFH) arrangements for civil servants starting Friday, with public services, particularly at the Regional Revenue Agency (Bapenda), continuing uninterrupted despite the policy. Mayor M Farhan noted that the initiative has reached 60% implementation and excludes departments directly serving the public, while leaders monitor operations on the ground. This measure aims to balance efficiency with essential service delivery amid evolving administrative practices.

Differences in Government-Imposed WFH for Civil Servants and Private Sector

The Indonesian government has implemented a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) every Friday starting from 10 April 2026, aimed at promoting energy efficiency amid the Middle East conflict, while public services and essential economic activities will continue uninterrupted. In contrast, the Ministry of Manpower has issued a circular recommending but not mandating WFH one day per week for private companies. This distinction highlights the government's approach to balancing efficiency measures with operational continuity across public and private sectors.

Tanah Abang Site of Maruarar and Hercules Debate to Be Transformed Into This

A disputed plot of land near Tanah Abang Station in Central Jakarta, previously contested between Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait and activist Rosario de Marshal (Hercules), is set to be developed into a 500-unit rental apartment complex for residents along the railway tracks, with completion targeted for 15 June 2026. The project, on PT Kereta Api Indonesia's land, involves collaboration between the government, state-owned enterprises, and private sector players like Astra International to address Jakarta's massive housing backlog. Despite past tensions, Hercules has agreed to relinquish the site's HPL status for the public good, emphasizing the need for legal clarity and rapid construction to provide decent housing.

Prabowo on "Ndablek" Businessmen: Spitting on the Sacrifices of Those Who Fell for Independence

President Prabowo Subianto has criticised illegal mining companies that disregard court rulings and government revocations, labelling their owners as disrespectful to Indonesia's sovereignty and the sacrifices made for independence. Speaking at the Attorney General's Office, he ordered Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin to enforce the law strictly against non-compliant parties, warning that such entities use stolen funds to oppose enforcement efforts. This directive underscores the government's commitment to upholding legal order and protecting national interests against law-breaking enterprises.