Geopolitical tensions between the US and China are prompting global smartphone manufacturers to shift production from China to India, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's push for domestic manufacturing. India has seen smartphone production value reach nearly US$60 billion in fiscal year 2024-2025, a 28-fold increase from a decade ago, with exports surging to US$21.7 billion, making it the country's top export product. Apple, in particular, has ramped up iPhone production in India to 55 million units in 2025, representing about a quarter of its global output, as New Delhi plans new export-linked incentives to further boost competitiveness.

Gold remains a reliable hedge against economic uncertainty, with digital platforms revolutionising access to investments in physical, digital, and crypto-backed gold. This article highlights seven secure apps, including state-backed Pegadaian Digital and innovative Pintu, which offers blockchain-tokenised gold starting from just Rp11,000, providing high liquidity and 24/7 trading. As technology advances, tokenisation enhances affordability and transparency, making gold investment more inclusive in 2026.

In a corruption trial involving former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim over alleged irregularities in Chromebook procurement, the presiding judge highlighted the BPKP auditor's prior role in calculating massive state losses in the BTS 4G infrastructure scandal that led to the conviction of ex-Communications Minister Johnny Plate. The auditor, Dedy Nurmawan Susilo, confirmed his involvement in assessing Rp8.03 trillion in losses for the Plate case, which resulted in a 15-year sentence, and also in a satellite procurement corruption case that saw a former defence official jailed for 12 years. This testimony underscores the ongoing scrutiny of high-profile corruption cases in Indonesia's public procurement sectors, emphasising the role of state auditors in quantifying financial damages.

The disruption in the Strait of Hormuz at the start of 2026 is not only shaking the global energy market but also posing broader risks to the world's food system by threatening fertiliser supplies essential for agriculture. Approximately one-third of global fertiliser trade, including key components like urea and ammonia, passes through this critical shipping route, with the Gulf region accounting for nearly half of the world's urea production and 30% of ammonia. This reliance means that any geopolitical conflict leading to restrictions or closures could cascade into higher food prices and shortages, severely impacting importing nations during planting seasons.

Dozens of residents in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, protested at the regent's office demanding action against the ongoing shortage of 3kg LPG cylinders, alleging hoarding and adulteration by unscrupulous businessmen. Regent Haerul Warisin responded by summoning Pertamina and gas agents to improve distribution and plans to request additional quotas from the central government, while highlighting misuse of subsidised LPG by non-poor households. Pertamina has increased supply by 59,000 cylinders and is conducting joint inspections to ensure fair distribution and adherence to regulated prices, threatening sanctions for violations.

PT Telkom Indonesia and PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to integrate digital infrastructure with low-carbon energy supplies, focusing on biomethane from palm oil waste to power sustainable green data centres. This collaboration aims to enhance synergies between state-owned enterprises, supporting Indonesia's digital transformation and energy transition while positioning the country as a regional digital hub. Key strategic locations like Cikarang, Batam, Serpong, Sentul, and Surabaya will benefit from PGN's existing gas networks, complemented by Telkom's global partnerships for comprehensive AI-ready green data centre development.

The Indonesian government is actively seeking alternative sources for naphtha, a key plastic raw material, due to supply chain disruptions caused by the Middle East conflict, which has historically relied on imports from the region. Trade Minister Budi Santoso stated that short-term mitigation involves sourcing from countries like India, the United States, and Africa, with communications already underway, though delays in shipping due to the war are complicating efforts. This global crisis affects multiple Asian producers, and while current stocks are being utilised, the government aims to stabilise plastic prices by accelerating new imports, dependent on international developments.

Indonesia's Ministry of Social Affairs is exploring a partnership with Japan's Regiono Group to train and send caregivers from poor families and People's School graduates to Japan, aiming to bolster its graduation programme for social assistance recipients. Officials highlighted the curriculum's focus on employable skills, with potential involvement from the Ministry of Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection to expand opportunities. Regiono Group requires 400 caregivers over the coming years to support elderly and child care facilities, viewing Indonesian workers as a valuable asset.

The Chair of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission II, Rifqinizamy Karsayuda, has endorsed extending Aceh's special autonomy status by 20 years from 2028 to 2048, advocating for the restoration of funding to 2% of the national General Allocation Fund (DAU). This proposal aims to revise Law No. 11 of 2006 to ensure legal certainty and sustain development in Aceh, where the current status and funding are set to expire on 1 January 2027. Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has also supported the extension, citing persistent high poverty and unemployment rates in Aceh despite improvements in human development indices.

The Indonesian government, led by Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, aims to eliminate open dumping practices nationwide by 2026 in line with Law No. 18 of 2008, urging regents and mayors to begin transitioning to controlled landfills by August this year. This initiative seeks to mitigate environmental risks such as fires and pollution, exacerbated by a prolonged dry season, while coordinating with law enforcement for sanctions on violations. Enhanced waste sorting at source and regional efforts, like those in Bali and North Sulawesi, are expected to boost national waste management from 26% to 57%, significantly reducing processing costs.

A recent Poltracking Indonesia survey shows President Prabowo Subianto leading presidential candidate preferences with 32.9% electability, followed by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi at 13.5% and Anies Baswedan at 9.2%. For vice-presidential candidates, Gibran Rakabuming tops the list at 26.8%, while the Gerindra Party leads party electability at 26.1%, significantly ahead of PDIP at 15.4%. Conducted from 2-8 March 2025 with 1,220 respondents, the survey highlights shifting political dynamics ahead of potential elections.

A viral social media post has accused officers at Pasar Minggu police station in Jakarta of neglecting to properly handle the discovery of a missing elderly woman named Warisem, who was reportedly left at the station without documentation and later wandered off again. The woman's son, Atar, expressed distress over the two-day ordeal, during which the family searched unsuccessfully at the station and a social home before finding her by chance. The station chief, Commissioner Anggiat Sinambela, denied any formal handover, emphasising that police stations are not intended as temporary care facilities, highlighting potential lapses in protocol for vulnerable individuals.

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is in discussions with the government to involve the insurance sector in the 3 Million Houses programme, aiming to provide protection against various risks for participants over the long-term financing period of 15 to 20 years. Risks such as death of the debtor, property damage, earthquakes, fires, and floods would be covered through insurance, viewed not as a cost burden but as essential long-term risk mitigation. As of the end of February 2026, the insurance, guarantee, and pension fund sector's total assets reached Rp 2,992 trillion, growing 9.94% year-on-year, highlighting its capacity to support such initiatives.

Roy Suryo, a suspect in a case involving allegations against President Joko Widodo's diploma, expressed surprise upon encountering his former lawyer, Pitra Romadoni, as an intervenor defendant in a lawsuit filed by retired military officers and citizens at the South Jakarta District Court. The court adjourned the hearing after Pitra failed to submit his power of attorney, prompting criticism from Roy about the unprofessionalism, while Pitra promised to explain his involvement at the next session on 17 April 2026. Retired Major General Soenarko highlighted concerns over alleged unprofessionalism and abuse of power by law enforcement in handling the case, warning of broader risks to citizens if such issues persist.

Indonesia's Creative Economy Minister Irene has highlighted the nation's potential in the global creative economy, particularly in art and technology integration, during a meeting with a French delegation in Jakarta. The initiative, under the ICC Immersion program involving 12 French companies, aims to foster concrete partnerships such as co-productions, creative residencies, and joint IP development across sectors like immersive experiences, gaming, and cultural heritage. This collaboration builds on the 2025 Indonesia-France MoU and seeks to position the creative economy as a key growth engine while strengthening industry networks in cities like Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Bali.

The Indonesian electric vehicle market is experiencing robust growth in early 2026, with the Jaecoo J5 EV leading sales with 7,827 units distributed in the first quarter, narrowly surpassing BYD's Atto 1 at 7,733 units. Chinese brands dominate the top rankings, including multiple BYD models and newcomers like Geely, while Wuling maintains a strong presence with 2,110 units of its Darion EV. This surge reflects accelerating electrification in Indonesia's automotive sector, aligning with government targets for emission-free vehicle adoption amid expanding consumer options and improving infrastructure.

Police in Pamekasan, East Java, are probing an alleged fraud case involving the processing of operational permits for MBG (Free Nutritious Meals) programme kitchens following complaints from local residents. Victims, including Abd Ghaffar and Moh Sakir, claim they paid a total of Rp90 million to a woman from Malang for permits and investor assistance that never materialised, affecting a key initiative under President Prabowo Subianto. Legal counsel notes that more than 10 individuals may be impacted, though only two have filed reports so far, urging swift action to resolve the matter.

Indonesia's investment realisation for the first quarter of 2026 reached Rp 497 trillion, marking a 7% year-on-year growth, as announced by Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Roeslani. This progress aligns with the government's target of Rp 2,041 trillion for the full year, driven by prioritised programmes such as downstreaming, which accounts for approximately 30% of total investments, and is expected to create 627,000 jobs, a 5.5% increase. Over the 2025-2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan, the cumulative investment target stands at Rp 13,032.8 trillion to support an 8% economic growth objective, with major investments originating from countries like Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States.

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XIII and the government have agreed to advance the Witness and Victim Protection Bill (RUU PSDK) to the plenary session for enactment into law. All parliamentary factions expressed support during a meeting on 13 April 2026, with the government's representative conveying the President's approval and appreciation for the progress. The Chair of the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) highlighted that the bill will enhance the effectiveness and quality of protection, ensuring equality and constitutional rights.

Sucor Sekuritas has assessed that global market volatility continues to overshadow recent stock market movements, yet this presents opportunities for retail investors to position themselves for medium- to long-term gains. Amid external pressures such as geopolitical tensions and global interest rate directions, the Indonesian stock market demonstrates resilience, with the Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) closing up 0.46% at 7,749.71. The firm is hosting the Stock Idea Festival 2026 on 23 May to enhance investor literacy through discussions and insights from market experts and influencers, underscoring its commitment to a more mature investment ecosystem in Indonesia.

Ibu Dewi Priyanti, a migrant from Solo to Jakarta, transformed her life from running a small roadside stall to a thriving business with the support of financing from PNM Mekaar, a programme by state-owned Permodalan Nasional Madani aimed at empowering underprivileged communities. As chair of a waste bank unit, she extends her impact by promoting environmental sustainability and social change. This story exemplifies PNM's commitment to women's economic independence, highlighting how consistent small steps foster confidence and broader societal contributions on Kartini Day.

Liliek Prisbawono Adi, a former Supreme Court justice, has commenced his duties as a Constitutional Court (MK) justice in Indonesia following his inauguration by President Prabowo Subianto on 6 April 2026, replacing the retiring Anwar Usman. He participated in his first session without introduction, joining eight other justices to hear testimonies from the House of Representatives (DPR RI) regarding six petitions challenging the Criminal Code (KUHP). The day also featured a retirement ceremony for Anwar Usman and a welcome for Liliek and another new justice, Adies Kadir, underscoring the ongoing renewal of the court's composition amid key constitutional reviews.

Reports have surfaced claiming that the US is seeking blanket overflight permissions for its military aircraft in Indonesian airspace, with allegations that President Prabowo Subianto has approved the Pentagon's proposal. The Ministry of Transportation has firmly stated that Indonesia remains committed to safeguarding its national airspace sovereignty in line with national and international laws, including the 1944 Chicago Convention. All foreign military flights require diplomatic and security clearances, and no policy changes have been made, emphasising national interests and caution in aviation decisions.

Indonesia's Ministry of Investment/BKPM has recorded 15.8 million Business Identification Numbers (NIBs) from 2021 to 2026, a significant increase following the implementation of Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025 on risk-based business licensing. Minister Rosan Roeslani highlighted that this surge reflects robust investment interest amid global geopolitical and economic challenges, with first-quarter 2026 investment realisation reaching Rp497 trillion, surpassing the Rp465 trillion target by 7%, and creating 627,036 jobs, up 5.5%. The overall 2026 investment target is set at Rp2,041.3 trillion, dominated by countries like Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States, with downstreaming initiatives contributing around 30% of total investments.

Indonesia is actively searching for alternative suppliers of naphtha, the key raw material for plastic production, due to disruptions in global supply chains caused by the Middle East conflict. Trade Minister Budi Santoso revealed that communications have been established with producers in India, the United States, and African countries, with import processes underway, though realisation will take time amid shipping delays from the war. This effort aims to stabilise plastic prices and mitigate impacts on local businesses, as the crisis affects major producers worldwide including Taiwan, South Korea, and Southeast Asian nations.

The Sukabumi Regent, Asep Japar, alongside military commanders, inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for the Garuda Bridge in several districts as part of President Prabowo Subianto's priority infrastructure programme. This initiative aligns with local government efforts to promote equitable development and enhance community welfare by improving access between villages. Officials and residents expressed appreciation for the bridge's role in facilitating easier transportation, particularly for education and daily activities, while emphasising the importance of ongoing maintenance to ensure its longevity.

Indonesia's Ministry of Transportation reports that 23.73 million people used public transport during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming and return flows, marking an 11.79% increase from the previous year. Ferry services saw the highest growth at 17.05%, reaching 5.6 million passengers, while overall mobility hit 147.55 million people, exceeding projections by 2.53%. This surge underscores the growing reliance on public transport for mass movements and the effectiveness of transportation infrastructure in handling peak travel periods.

The Indonesian Army's Kodam XXI/Raden Inten is accelerating infrastructure projects, including the rapid construction of bridges in remote areas of Lampung Province, to improve transportation access, education, and agricultural distribution, thereby boosting rural economies. In parallel, the command is advancing food security innovations through university research aimed at increasing rice yields from 5-7 tonnes per hectare to 10-15 tonnes, positioning Lampung as a stronger national food barn. These efforts underscore the TNI's commitment to preventive measures for national stability by addressing basic societal needs, with strict directives for soldiers to maintain professionalism and integrity.

Idrus Marham, Deputy Chairman of Golkar Party, has defended Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia against a survey by LSSIR that placed him in the problematic category, arguing that evaluations must align with objective facts and common sense. He highlighted Bahlil's frontline role in advancing President Prabowo Subianto's vision for national energy resilience, including community involvement in resource management, legalisation of people's oil wells, combating mining mafias, and boosting downstream investments in nickel, copper, and coal worth hundreds of trillions of rupiah. These efforts also encompass accelerating energy transition through B50 biodiesel and expanding renewable energy capacity to tens of gigawatts, amid high public satisfaction with the President at 70.5%.

The TransJakarta bus route 9H is being extended from Pasar Minggu in South Jakarta to Tugu Tanah Baru in Depok, following a collaboration between the transportation departments of Depok and DKI Jakarta. This extension aims to enhance public transport accessibility for Depok residents commuting to Jakarta, with adjustments to departure points and routes for greater efficiency. The service is expected to launch soon after successful trials, providing a more integrated and affordable travel option.

Baby and children's clothing prices in Jakarta's Tanah Abang market remain stable for now, despite warnings of impending increases due to Middle East conflict-driven rises in textile raw material costs, particularly polyester. Traders are relying on old stock and have not yet adjusted prices, but industry leaders predict a 10% hike at retail level within one to two months as new, costlier supplies enter the market. This development highlights the vulnerability of Indonesia's textile sector to global geopolitical tensions, potentially impacting affordable clothing for families.

Global oil prices surged over 7% to exceed 100 US dollars per barrel following the United States' announcement of a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz in response to failed peace talks with Iran. Brent crude rose to 102.23 dollars and WTI to 103.88 dollars, with the US Navy set to enforce the blockade starting Monday, affecting all shipping traffic to and from Iranian ports. This escalation risks disrupting global energy supplies, potentially sustaining high fuel prices through the upcoming midterm elections and heightening energy crisis concerns for Asia.

Under President Prabowo Subianto's administration, Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait has outlined plans to leverage budgetary efficiencies in the people's housing programme to double the number of homes renovated under the BSPS initiative, increasing from 38 units in 2025 to 512 in 2026 in Minahasa. During a visit to Sulawesi Utara, alongside Interior Minister Tito Karnavian and BPS Head Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti, Ara inspected substandard housing and witnessed transparent tender processes to ensure cost savings benefit recipients directly. This approach enhances programme transparency, efficiency, and community welfare, aligning with the government's push for targeted housing aid.

Universitas Hasanuddin (Unhas) has achieved a significant milestone with 201 research and community service proposals securing funding under the 2026 BIMA programme from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek). This success, comprising 70 continuations and 131 new grants, underscores the university's intensive mentoring efforts and strategic alignment with funding schemes for public legal entity universities. The LPPM at Unhas plans to enhance proposal quality and support unsuccessful applicants for future submissions, reflecting strong academic productivity amid 1,177 total submissions.

The Military Prosecutor's Office has charged four TNI members with multiple layers of assault under the Indonesian Criminal Code for their alleged involvement in the acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus, facing potential sentences of up to 12 years. The case, stemming from an incident following a podcast event on militarism and judicial review, has seen the completion of investigations and transfer to the Military Court II-08 Jakarta, amid civil coalitions' demands for a civilian trial and murder attempt charges. This development underscores ongoing tensions between military and civilian justice systems in handling attacks on human rights advocates.

Indonesia is bolstering its energy partnership with Russia during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Moscow, focusing on long-term national energy security amid global geopolitical tensions affecting worldwide supply stability. Accompanied by key ministers, Prabowo is set to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss concrete cooperation on energy supplies, particularly oil, and exchange views on international developments. This strategic move underscores Indonesia's commitment to maintaining stable energy provisions while prioritising global peace and stability.

A recent LSI survey reveals that only 63.2 percent of Indonesians can accurately name all five principles of Pancasila, Indonesia's state ideology, while 92.7 percent claim some familiarity with it. The study, conducted in March 2026 with over 2,000 respondents, highlights significant knowledge gaps among lower-educated individuals, rural residents, and those in regions like Maluku and Papua, underscoring the need for enhanced civic education to strengthen national commitment to foundational values. This finding raises concerns about public awareness of core ideological tenets amid ongoing efforts to promote Pancasila in Indonesian society.

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Pariaman City Government to ensure a stable rice supply for the capital's residents, aiming to maintain price stability through enhanced supply chains. This collaboration, involving Food Station Tjipinang Jaya, seeks to improve distribution efficiency, reduce price fluctuations, and boost farmers' welfare in Pariaman. The agreement aligns with national food security goals and includes proposals for developing mackerel aquaculture amid coastal revitalisation efforts.

Jakarta has been ranked as the second safest city in ASEAN by the Global Residence Index 2026, a accolade celebrated by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, but criminologist Josias Simon from the University of Indonesia urges caution in interpreting this statistic. He highlights that the index's broad 'human security' metrics encompass environmental, health, and economic factors beyond urban crime rates, while everyday street crimes and thuggery remain rampant and often unreported. This discrepancy arises from underreporting due to victims' reluctance to involve police, leading to a gap between official data and social media portrayals of persistent criminality.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint in the global energy system, through which approximately 20 million barrels of oil—about 20% of global consumption—pass daily, making it essential for worldwide oil distribution and a key indicator of energy supply vulnerabilities. The International Energy Agency highlights its narrow passages and limited alternative routes, which heighten risks from geopolitical conflicts or technical disruptions, potentially causing sharp spikes in global oil prices and physical supply shortages. This strategic waterway's importance underscores the fragility of international energy markets and the need for robust contingency measures.

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) closed up 0.56% at 7,500.19 on Monday, propelled by rises in energy sector stocks, despite an initial dip due to escalating US-Iran tensions and rising crude oil prices. Domestic retail sales surged 6.5% year-on-year in February, the fastest since March 2024, boosted by Ramadan spending, while President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Russia aims to secure oil supplies amid Middle East conflicts. This performance signals potential for the index to test 7,600 if it holds above 7,500, highlighting resilience in Indonesia's market.

MIND ID, the state-owned mining holding company, has set an ambitious target for PT Timah Tbk (TINS) to increase its tin production by 63% to 29,100 tonnes in 2026, up from 17,800 tonnes in 2025. This growth is part of a broader strategy to boost output across various commodities, including bauxite (89% increase), nickel ore (33% rise), ferronickel (14% growth), and coal (5% uptick). The initiatives underscore MIND ID's commitment to downstream processing, operational efficiency, and sustainable value creation to bolster Indonesia's national economy.

Indonesia's investment realisation in the first quarter of 2026 is projected to reach approximately Rp 497 trillion, marking a year-on-year growth of around 7%, a slowdown from the 15.6% recorded in the same period of 2025. High global geopolitical tensions have led foreign investors to adopt a cautious approach, holding back expansions into Indonesia, though government initiatives such as the Free Nutritious Meals programme, energy and food self-sufficiency efforts, and investment commitments from President Prabowo Subianto's Japan visit continue to bolster the country's appeal. Officials highlight seasonal factors like Ramadan and ongoing policy measures, including a task force to enhance investment efficiency, as key to maintaining momentum throughout the year.

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is promoting the use of Gold Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) by the insurance and pension fund industries as a long-term investment option to enhance returns while mitigating portfolio risks from stock market fluctuations. OJK officials highlighted ongoing discussions for guaranteed return products and proactive supervision to align investments with liabilities, with regulations already in place for Gold ETF issuance. The Indonesia Stock Exchange anticipates launching these ETFs in the second quarter of 2026, boosting capital market participation.

Pope Leo XIV, the first US-born pontiff, has responded to sharp criticism from US President Donald Trump over his condemnation of the US-Iran war, stating he has no intention of debating the president and remains focused on promoting peace. Trump accused the Pope of being detrimental to foreign policy and weak, particularly for opposing nuclear armament against threats like Iran. This exchange highlights tensions between religious leadership and political rhetoric amid ongoing conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran.

Indonesian wartegs, humble eateries serving affordable meals to urban workers, are grappling with surging plastic packaging costs and reduced Friday footfall due to mandatory work-from-home policies, squeezing their already thin margins. Owners are adapting through eco-friendly alternatives like banana leaves, subtle portion adjustments via shrinkflation, digital delivery expansions, and evolving into 'fancy' versions to attract middle-class customers, showcasing the resilience of small businesses in the face of economic pressures. This adaptation highlights the need for policy support in price stabilization and digital training to bolster these vital community hubs.

Chateraise Gobel Indonesia is constructing its second factory in Indonesia in Bekasi with a Rp 1.4 trillion investment, building on its integrated 'farm to factory' ecosystem that links farmers, industry, and consumers to elevate local agriculture and serve markets. The initiative, highlighted at the groundbreaking ceremony attended by Japanese executives, Indonesian officials, and farmers from Gorontalo, emphasises technology transfer, poverty alleviation in one of Indonesia's poorest provinces, and the use of local produce like cocoa and coffee for high-standard products aimed at export to the Middle East and Southeast Asia. This partnership not only boosts employment and sustainable farming practices but also aligns with global halal standards, underscoring economic and social benefits.

Several villages in Tabanan, Bali, have submitted proposals to upgrade the status of their local roads from village to district ownership, involving routes across districts like Pupuan and Kediri with varying lengths up to 5 km. The process, managed by the local Public Works and Public Housing Department, requires technical verification and multi-level approvals up to the central government, which delays full reconstruction efforts until status changes are approved. This initiative aims to enhance road quality, connectivity, and economic growth in the region once the roads become district assets.

Former Head of Police Education and Training Agency, Komjen Chryshnanda Dwilaksana, has outlined the ambitious plan to elevate the Police College (STIK) into the Police University (Unipol) to advance policing sciences and bolster the professionalism of Indonesian police personnel. Speaking at a seminar, he emphasised that this transformation is essential for maintaining national sovereignty, resilience, and competitiveness in an era of digital uncertainty, while integrating fields like electronic and forensic policing to address contemporary challenges such as artificial intelligence. The initiative, building on foundations from 1946, awaits final government approvals, including presidential regulations, and will be open to the general public to foster broader societal contributions to civilisation and justice.

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, has emphasised that the national policy of work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants must be adopted by local governments to demonstrate loyalty to the central authority, although regions have discretion over the proportion of staff involved. This measure forms part of broader energy efficiency efforts amid global challenges like the Middle East conflict, with assurances from Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto that public services will remain unaffected, drawing parallels to its successful implementation during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, some local leaders, such as the Regent of Dompu in West Nusa Tenggara, are conducting assessments due to concerns over impacts on public service efficiency and budget savings.