Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 April 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,531 articles

Economist Reveals Phenomenon of Yuan Beginning to Displace Dollar Dominance in Indonesia

David E. Sumual, Chief Economist at PT Bank Central Asia, has highlighted the growing use of the Chinese yuan in Indonesia's international trade, with exports to China rising 24% and imports from China increasing 37%, potentially leading to yuan liquidity risks as Chinese counterparts prefer payments in yuan. While this shift challenges the dollar's dominance, the Indonesian Ministry of Finance has addressed the issue by issuing Dimsum Bonds in October 2025 to bolster yuan liquidity, raising 6 billion yuan amid strong global investor interest. This development underscores Indonesia's strategic efforts to adapt to evolving global currency dynamics and enhance economic resilience against exchange rate volatility.

Poltracking Survey: 74.9 Percent of the Public Satisfied with President Prabowo's Performance

A Poltracking Indonesia survey reveals that 74.9 percent of the public is satisfied with President Prabowo Subianto's performance after 1.5 years in office, with 75.1 percent expressing trust in the Prabowo-Gibran administration. Satisfaction with the government's overall performance stands at 74.1 percent, providing a positive political capital amid global tensions impacting the economy and other sectors. The survey, conducted via face-to-face interviews using multistage random sampling, has a margin of error of ±2.9 percent at a 95 percent confidence level.

Nusron Wahid: Should God's House Not Be Certified?

Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency, Nusron Wahid, has urged the acceleration of waqf land certification in West Nusa Tenggara, where only 7,063 out of approximately 14,000 plots have been certified so far. He emphasised the importance of this process to protect religious assets from potential conflicts, particularly as land values rise in strategic areas like Mandalika. Nusron targets completing the certification within one year by forming special teams and partnering with Islamic universities for thematic community service programmes.

Government Establishes New Task Force to Facilitate Subsidised Housing Access for Low-Income Groups

The Indonesian government is forming a new task force to accelerate access to subsidised housing for low-income households (MBR) by addressing various obstacles, particularly in the financial sector such as the Financial Information Service System (SLIK). OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi and Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait emphasised that the task force will handle a broad range of housing-related issues, including financing barriers, to ensure structured problem-solving without repeated meetings. Additionally, OJK has revised SLIK policies to display only credit records above Rp1 million and expedite repayment updates to within three days, aiming to support the 3 million housing development programme more effectively.

How to Buy Official Antam Gold: See the Online and Offline Processes Here

Investing in Antam gold, produced by PT Aneka Tambang Tbk, is increasingly popular in Indonesia due to its high purity, liquidity, and stability as a long-term investment option. This guide outlines the step-by-step processes for purchasing Antam gold both online via the official Logam Mulia website— involving registration, payment via virtual account, and pickup at a boutique—and offline directly at authorised butik locations. Understanding these procedures ensures safe and compliant transactions for beginners entering the gold investment market.

Karangasem's Regional Own-Source Revenue Reaches Rp 131.5 Billion in the First Quarter

Karangasem Regency in Bali has achieved Rp 131.5 billion in regional own-source revenue (PAD) during the first quarter of 2026, representing 25.7% of its annual target of Rp 511 billion, a strong performance given the ongoing low tourist season. The revenue is primarily driven by taxes on non-metallic minerals and rocks (MBLB) at Rp 21.2 billion, alongside positive contributions from hotel taxes (Rp 16.5 billion) and restaurant taxes (Rp 8.8 billion). This success is attributed to the local government's innovative tax gateway programme, which enhances revenue accuracy and minimises leakages, with hopes of exceeding the full-year target.

Developers' Association Says New SLIK Rules Support Low-Income People Owning Homes

The Real Estate Indonesia (REI) association has welcomed a new policy from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) on the Financial Services Information System (SLIK), which allows low-income earners (MBR) with credit records of Rp1 million or less to apply for subsidised housing loans, thereby expanding homeownership opportunities for the underprivileged. This decision, resulting from collaboration between the Ministry of Housing and Human Settlements (PKP) and OJK, includes additional measures such as faster credit repayment data updates and prioritisation of subsidised housing in guarantees, supporting the government's goal of building 3 million homes. Industry leaders from REI and Apersi expressed appreciation, highlighting the policy's role in overcoming previous barriers for MBR in accessing affordable housing.

Ahead of Departure of Prospective Hajj Pilgrims from DIY, Three Scenarios Prepared to Anticipate Middle East Conflict

The Indonesian government has assured that the departure of 3,748 prospective Hajj pilgrims from Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta (DIY) and the Kedu region remains on schedule for 21 April 2026, despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with preparations nearly 99% complete and digital services enhancing the process. To mitigate risks, three contingency scenarios have been devised: full departure as planned, phased embarkation, or cancellation if Saudi Arabia closes access for security reasons, alongside alternative return routes and a Rp 2 million fee reduction to shield pilgrims from aviation fuel price surges. This proactive approach, coordinated with parliament and central authorities, underscores the commitment to pilgrim safety and affordability amid regional instability.

JCI Breaks Through 7,500 at Close, Energy Sector Surges Amid Escalating US-Iran Conflict

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) climbed 0.56% to close at 7,500 on Monday, 13 April 2026, surpassing market expectations despite initial weakness triggered by rising oil prices following the failure of US-Iran negotiations and the US Navy's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The energy sector led the gains with a 2.64% increase, buoyed by heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that could disrupt global energy supplies, while the financial sector dipped 1.31%. Trading volume reached Rp20.44 trillion, with standout performers including Barito Pacific (BRPT) up 14.36% and Medco Energi (MEDC) rising 6.11%, highlighting the market's sensitivity to international energy dynamics.

Psychologist: Traditional games as a positive alternative for children

Psychologist Abdi Keraf from Nusa Cendana University advocates for traditional games as a beneficial alternative to social media for children's development, particularly in fostering social interaction and emotional maturity, amid the implementation of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 (PP Tunas), which restricts social media access for children under 16. He emphasises that these games impart positive values such as kinship, spirituality, and morality, helping children build emotional intelligence through direct experiences rather than the individualistic nature of online platforms. Keraf urges parents, teachers, and communities to promote face-to-face social interactions and calls for proper socialisation of the regulation to ensure its positive reception.

Makassar BBPOM seizes 96,000 illegal drug tablets

Authorities in Makassar have seized 96,000 illegal Trihexyphenidyl (THP) tablets in an early April operation, highlighting the ongoing fight against counterfeit medicines that pose severe health risks including hallucinations, dependency, and potentially fatal respiratory issues. The raid, conducted jointly by BBPOM Makassar and South Sulawesi Police, uncovered the drugs hidden in packages delivered to a local residence, leading to the arrest of a 58-year-old suspect facing up to 12 years in prison under Indonesia's 2023 Health Law. This action, valued at approximately Rp192 million, is estimated to have prevented misuse by around 9,600 individuals, underscoring the importance of public vigilance through BPOM's "Check KLIK" campaign for verifying packaging, labels, distribution permits, and expiry dates.

Illegal Firearm Assembler Ki Bedil Previously Worked in Air Gun Industry in Cipacing

Indonesian police have revealed that TS, alias "Ki Bedil", a suspect in the production and distribution of illegal firearms, previously worked in the air gun industry in Cipacing, West Java, before going underground to operate covertly based on trusted orders. His high-quality, accurate weapons, including pistols and long-barrel rifles priced between Rp15-20 million, were marketed through an intermediary via social media, with activities spanning two decades until his recent arrest. Authorities are continuing investigations to trace buyers and users of his products, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb illegal arms circulation.

Global Conflicts Overshadow Q1-2026 Investment, Airlangga: This Is Not a Normal Situation

Indonesia's Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming projects investment realisation for the first quarter of 2026 at Rp 497 trillion, representing a slowdown to 7% growth compared to 15.6% in the previous year, amid unstable global conditions due to geopolitical conflicts. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto noted that the war-like situation is prompting businesses to evaluate expansion plans, yet investor interest remains strong as evidenced by positive responses during government visits to the UK, South Korea, and Japan. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani affirmed that the provisional data is on track to meet the target, with final figures expected by mid-April.

Strengthening Investment in Central Asia, Hotel Kampoeng Indonesia Launches in Samarkand

Indonesian investment is expanding into Central Asia with the opening of Hotel Kampoeng Indonesia, a three-star property in Samarkand's Imam Bukhari Memorial Complex, marking the first such establishment in this rapidly growing religious tourism destination. The 45-hectare complex attracts up to 65,000 pilgrims daily, presenting significant opportunities for supporting infrastructure like accommodation. Attended by Indonesian Ambassador Siti Ruhaini Dzuhayatin and local officials, the soft opening underscores EGI Resources' strategy to broaden its global business network while promoting Indonesian cultural identity and fostering bilateral ties in tourism and investment between Indonesia and Uzbekistan.

Rising Regional Head Arrests: Tito Alludes to High Costs of Direct Local Elections

Indonesia's Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has highlighted the surge in Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) hand arrests of regional heads, attributing it partly to flaws in the direct local election (Pilkada) system, including exorbitant political costs and failure to ensure selection of ethical leaders. He pointed out that while direct elections have merits, they contribute to systemic corruption risks, exacerbated by welfare issues and moral hazards among officials. This comes amid 10 such arrests since February 2025, with the latest involving Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo, who allegedly extorted subordinates using a 'magic letter' for bribes.

Police reveal that Ki Bedil once worked in the air gun industry

Indonesian police have disclosed that TS, alias Ki Bedil, a suspect in an illegal firearms case, previously worked in the air gun industry in Cipacing, West Java, before going underground to produce weapons on a custom basis. Ki Bedil, known for crafting revolvers and pistols, sold his products through an intermediary on social media, with prices ranging from Rp15-20 million depending on the type, primarily to street criminals and illegal hunters. This arrest underscores the Indonesian National Police's ongoing efforts to combat the circulation of illegal firearms that threaten public safety and order.

Turkey Urges Immediate Reopening of Strait of Hormuz

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has called for the swift reopening of the Strait of Hormuz following US President Donald Trump's order for a naval blockade after failed peace talks with Iran. The strait, a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas shipments, has been effectively restricted amid the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict, with Iran allowing passage only for ships from allied nations like China and potentially imposing tolls. Fidan emphasised the need for peaceful negotiations and persuasion to restore free navigation, distinguishing it from direct involvement in the war, while Iran has condemned the blockade as illegal piracy and warned of broader regional threats.

Indonesia Seeks New Plastic Raw Material Supplies Amid Global Crisis

The Indonesian government is actively seeking alternative sources for plastic raw materials, particularly naphtha, due to supply disruptions from the Middle East caused by ongoing conflicts. Trade Minister Budi Santoso revealed that communications with producers in countries like India, the US, and Africa have yielded some progress, though volumes and delivery times are affected by shipping delays. This global crisis has led to a 30-40% surge in plastic prices, prompting efforts to stabilise supplies and mitigate impacts on businesses.

Surabaya's SMEs Export Value at SIL Festival 2026 Reaches US$2.73 Million

The Surabaya Industrial & Labour (SIL) Festival 2026 concluded successfully, with small and medium-sized industries (SMEs) in Surabaya achieving export deals worth US$2.73 million, significantly surpassing the initial target of US$1 million and reaching markets in six countries including Oman, the US, and Singapore. The event, which combined a job fair and international business matching, also saw 36 SMEs upgrade their operations, with the city government committing to ongoing mentoring and systematic export support, particularly for young entrepreneurs. Additionally, around 1,200 local residents secured jobs through the parallel job fair, underscoring the festival's dual impact on export growth and employment in line with national policies to strengthen domestic industry.

Hundreds of Academics and Activists Gather at UI, Addressing 'Observer Inflation'

Hundreds of academics and activists convened at Universitas Indonesia for a focus group discussion organised by the Interdisciplinary Intellectual Forum, where human rights activist and Amnesty Indonesia Director Usman Hamid criticised Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya's remarks on the 'inflation of observers'—a term describing the proliferation of unqualified opinions. Usman argued that such statements undermine the valuable role observers play in helping the government understand social realities and foster an impression of a criticism-averse administration, especially following President Prabowo's recent comments on regulating observers with impure motives. This exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the government and civil society regarding open discourse and evidence-based critique in Indonesia's political landscape.

Ministry, OJK to form task force to speed up 3 million house programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Public Works and Housing, in collaboration with the Financial Services Authority (OJK), is set to establish a task force involving stakeholders like the Public Housing Savings Management Agency and developer associations to accelerate the government's 3 million houses programme. OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi expressed full support for the initiative, highlighting the minister's efforts to improve housing finance access for low-income communities through policies such as exemptions on land and building rights fees. This development is expected to significantly boost the subsidized housing sector and contribute to national economic growth.

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment: KDMP as a Vehicle for Boosting Local Productivity and Economy

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar has highlighted the role of Village/Urban Village Red and White Cooperatives (KDMP) in enhancing local productivity and driving rural economic growth, aligning with the government's goal to reduce extreme poverty to 0-0.5% by 2026. He emphasised that KDMP should serve as hubs for local and agricultural products as well as creative economy initiatives to meet domestic and national market demands, while facilitating economic activities such as distributing LPG, Bulog rice, fertilisers, and acting as off-takers for village produce like rice and corn. In the long term, Muhaimin urged strengthening cooperatives to become competitive institutions amid global challenges, thereby unlocking national economic potential.

South Sumatra Police Support Strategic Programme by Ensuring Validity of Economic Census Data

The South Sumatra Regional Police (Polda Sumsel) has pledged full support for the 2026 Economic Census conducted by the provincial Statistics Indonesia (BPS), emphasising the role of accurate data in shaping economic policies and national development. Led by Inspector General Sandi Nugroho, the police will provide security, coordination, and public outreach to ensure the census runs smoothly, aligning with presidential directives on data validity for inflation control and economic growth. This collaboration aims to enhance regional economic competitiveness and public welfare through reliable statistical foundations.

Prabowo to Shut Down All Fuel Power Plants, Here is the Replacement

President Prabowo Subianto aims to end Indonesia's fuel oil imports within two to three years by closing all diesel power plants, which account for 20% of current imports, saving 200,000 barrels per day. As a substitute, the government will build 100 GW of solar power plants, accelerate electric vehicle conversions, and promote electric stoves to reduce reliance on imported fuels and LPG. This initiative, supported by directives to higher education for solar cell research, seeks to stabilise national finances and enhance energy self-sufficiency.

Nadiem: State loss of Rp2 trillion in Chromebook case is fabricated

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Anwar Makarim has claimed that the alleged Rp2 trillion state loss in the Chromebook corruption case is entirely fabricated, as the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) failed to compare the purchase prices with market rates during their audit. During the expert witness examination at the Jakarta Corruption Court, Nadiem highlighted that BPKP used arbitrary margin assumptions to determine a non-existent fair price of Rp4.3 million per unit, proving the loss calculation is not based on real market data. The case involves accusations of improper procurement of Chromebooks and CDM devices for education digitalisation programmes in 2020-2022, with Nadiem allegedly receiving Rp809.59 billion from related entities, facing severe penalties under Indonesia's anti-corruption laws.

OJK Hopes Gold Mutual Funds Will Become an Investment Alternative

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) anticipates that gold-based exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and mutual funds will serve as viable long-term investment options for the insurance and pension fund sectors, enhancing their diversification into the capital markets. OJK Executive Head Ogi Prastomiyono highlighted ongoing discussions with asset management companies to develop products offering guaranteed returns while balancing risks and rewards, amid a 9.94% year-on-year growth in sector assets to Rp 2,992 trillion as of end-February 2026. This initiative aims to mitigate investment risks and provide alternative returns for these institutions.

Constitutional Court Officially Releases Anwar Usman, Welcomes Two New Justices

The Constitutional Court (MK) has formally retired Justice Anwar Usman through a retirement ceremony, marking the end of his tenure effective 6 April 2026, in recognition of his services. In the same proceeding, two new justices, Dr. Liliek Priabawono Adi and Prof. Dr. Ir. H. Adies Kadir, were appointed to replace him and the retiring Arief Hidayat, respectively. This reshuffle strengthens the court's composition and ensures continuity in its institutional functions amid ongoing judicial responsibilities.

Forestry Ministry Detains Vietnamese National in Connection with Smuggling of 796 kg of Pangolin Scales

Indonesia's Forestry Ministry has detained a Vietnamese national for smuggling 796.34 kg of Javanese pangolin scales hidden in a foreign-flagged cargo ship at Merak Port in Banten. The discovery underscores a serious threat to Indonesia's biodiversity, highlighting organised cross-border wildlife trafficking that undermines conservation efforts. Authorities are investigating the supply chain, potential ship-to-ship transfers, and the critical endangerment of the protected Javanese pangolin species.

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Emphasises Importance of Implementing New OJK SLIK Policy

Minister Maruarar Sirait has stressed the need for swift implementation of the new OJK SLIK policy without bureaucratic hurdles, allowing individuals with credit records below Rp1 million to access subsidised housing loans. This decision, resulting from prolonged efforts by the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas in collaboration with OJK, aims to accelerate the government's 3 million homes programme. OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi announced additional measures, including the formation of a task force involving key stakeholders and clarifications on SLIK data's role in credit approvals.

Parliament Pushes for 20-Year Extension of Aceh's Special Autonomy Funds and Increase in Papua's Allocation

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission II is advocating for a 20-year extension of special autonomy funds for Aceh, from 2028 to 2048, and a revision to set the allocation at 2% of the general allocation fund, addressing the impending end of current provisions in 2027. For Papua, the commission seeks to raise the ceiling of special autonomy funds to better support development across six provinces, as the existing funds are insufficient for the newly formed regions. This push includes recent successes in boosting state budget allocations for infrastructure in Papua's new provinces, highlighting efforts to accelerate regional development and autonomy.

Rupiah Weakens Amid US Efforts to Blockade Strait of Hormuz

The Indonesian rupiah closed slightly weaker at Rp17,105 per US dollar on Monday, influenced by US efforts to blockade the Strait of Hormuz following failed peace talks with Iran. This geopolitical tension risks disrupting global oil supplies, contributing to currency volatility in emerging markets like Indonesia. Meanwhile, the Asian Development Bank projects Indonesia's economic growth at 5.2% for 2026, slightly above last year's 5.1% but below the government's 5.4% target, with inflation within Bank Indonesia's range.

Government ensures quality education in Sekolah Rakyat schools

The Indonesian government, under President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is committed to providing high-quality education through the Sekolah Rakyat programme, which offers free, full-boarding schooling for children from extremely poor and vulnerable families, coordinated by the Ministry of Social Affairs. During a visit to SRMP 16, Minister Haq emphasised the importance of qualified teachers, ongoing mentoring, and synergy among regional government offices to maintain and improve learning standards. This initiative aims to empower underprivileged youth by giving them access to excellent education, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and contribute to society.

BTN Loan Factory Aimed at Boosting Consumer Business Growth

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has launched its BTN Loan Factory in Bekasi, West Java, to drive growth in its consumer credit business by shifting from a regional-based to a process-based operating model. This facility focuses on operational excellence to ensure consistent, high-quality service, improved process efficiency, and faster credit approval times, targeting a maximum of five days currently and aiming for three days in the future. The national implementation, completed on 6 April 2026, consolidates all regional loan processing centres, enhancing productivity and customer experience in line with BTN's vision to become a trusted consumer bank.

Indonesia-China Increasingly Fond of Using Yuan, Bye American Dollar

Indonesia's trade relations with China are driving a gradual increase in the use of the Chinese yuan for transactions, with exports to China rising by 24% and imports surging by 74%, prompting demands for payments in yuan. While the US dollar remains dominant in global trade at 89% of transactions, initiatives like the issuance of Dim Sum Bonds in October 2025, attracting 18 billion yuan in orders, are enhancing yuan liquidity and supporting diversification efforts to reduce over-reliance on the dollar. This shift is evident in the rupiah's 4.9% year-to-date weakening against the yuan, highlighting the growing economic ties and the yuan's rising global share to 8.5% in forex markets.

DPR's MKD to Summon PKS's Aboe Bakar Over Statement on Drugs in Madura

The DPR's Honour Court (MKD) will summon PKS lawmaker Habib Aboe Bakar Al-Habsyi on Tuesday to seek clarification regarding his controversial remarks alleging the involvement of ulama and pesantren in Madura in drug trafficking activities. The statement was made during a meeting with the Head of the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), where Aboe Bakar highlighted the need for stronger synergy among agencies to combat drugs and expressed shock over the reported profits driving such involvement. This summons underscores concerns about the potential impact of such statements on religious institutions and the ongoing efforts to address narcotics issues in border and coastal regions.

Willy Aditya's Joke About NasDem Merging with Gerindra During DPR Meeting

During a House of Representatives Commission XIII meeting in Jakarta, Chairman Willy Aditya, a NasDem member, light-heartedly joked about a potential merger between NasDem and Gerindra parties while inviting members from both factions to provide responses on the BPIP's presentation. The quip, prompted by the adjacent seating of NasDem's Muslim Ayub and Gerindra's Anwar Sadad with an empty chair between them, elicited laughter and highlighted the informal rapport among parliamentarians. The session focused on the roadmap for Pancasila ideology development and the draft BPIP Bill, underscoring ongoing efforts to strengthen national ideological foundations amid political banter.

Habiburokhman: Polri Under Pak Sigit is Not Allergic to Openness

Habiburokhman, Chairman of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission III, has praised the Indonesian National Police (Polri) for its transparency in addressing violations by rogue members, describing it as the most responsive institution compared to others. Speaking at a seminar on preparing precise Polri personnel, he highlighted the ongoing reform efforts and emphasised that under Chief of Police General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, Polri demonstrates openness by promptly imposing sanctions like dismissal, which builds public trust. He assured continued oversight by the Commission to promote transparent law enforcement, noting Polri's quick response to parliamentary findings.

Padang Socialises Stimulus Funds for Repairing Houses of Disaster-Affected Residents

The Padang city government is socialising the technical distribution of stimulus funds for repairing homes damaged by late 2025 hydrometeorological disasters, focusing on four affected districts with allocations based on damage severity: Rp30 million for moderate damage, Rp15 million for minor, and integrated housing for severe cases. The initiative covers 30 moderately damaged, 272 lightly damaged, 294 severely damaged, 121 washed away, and 108 relocation-eligible homes, with funds disbursed in two stages—75% for materials and 25% for labour—to ensure targeted use. This effort, supported by technical teams for administrative assistance, aims to complete the transition from emergency to full recovery by 20 July 2026, minimising legal risks through mayoral decree guidelines.

Directorate General of Immigration takes action against 346 foreigners suspected of violating regulations

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration apprehended 346 foreign nationals suspected of immigration violations during the Wirawaspada Operation from 7 to 11 April 2026, with the majority from China, Pakistan, and Nigeria. The most common infraction was misuse of residence permits, accounting for 61% of cases, alongside overstays and fictitious investors, as part of enforcing the "selective policy" to ensure only beneficial foreigners remain in the country. This annual operation underscores the government's commitment to immigration law enforcement and national security, building on previous efforts that netted 220 violators in December 2025.

Cargo Port to be Built in Klungkung, Costing Rp 343 Billion

The Klungkung Regency Government in Bali plans to construct a cargo port in Pesinggahan Village, Dawan Subdistrict, to improve goods transportation to Nusa Penida, with an estimated cost of Rp 343 billion based on a feasibility study by Udayana University. This project addresses current limitations at Padangbai Port, where cargo shipments face long delays due to prioritisation of passenger routes to Lombok, leading to higher costs for locals using boats. The initiative, promised during the regent's campaign, is progressing with land acquisition challenges and financing options including provincial funding in 2027 or partnerships via a regional-owned enterprise, underscoring its importance for Nusa Penida's rapid development.

Agriculture Minister Amran Visits Bulog Office and Suddenly Apologises: What's Going On?

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman visited the Perum Bulog headquarters in Jakarta to express appreciation for the state-owned company's achievement in maintaining a national food stockpile of 4.7 million tonnes and to apologise for the intense workload imposed on its employees in pursuit of food self-sufficiency. Bulog's CEO, Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, explained that the apology was a gesture of affection from the minister, acknowledging the sacrifices made by staff who have foregone weekends and family time to meet government targets. This visit underscores the government's commitment to bolstering food security amid high operational demands on public enterprises.

Jakarta Information Commission urges Central Jakarta Health Sub-District Office to improve information management

The Jakarta Information Commission (KI DKI) has called on the Central Jakarta Health Sub-District Office (Sudinkes Jakpus) to enhance its information management practices, emphasising that accurate data is crucial for improving public health services. During a visit, KI officials highlighted the strategic importance of transparency under the Public Information Disclosure Act (UU KIP), noting that only 10-20% of public bodies currently meet informative standards based on electronic monitoring evaluations. The initiative aims to foster a collaborative commitment to transparent and accountable information governance, with Sudinkes Jakpus welcoming the opportunity to refine its communication and legal protections for health workers.

Video: Nickel Mining Profits: No Nickel Ore Imports and Supply to Local Smelters

PT Central Omega Resources Tbk (DKFT), a mining company, reported revenues of Rp 1.58 trillion and a net profit of Rp 573.5 billion for 2025, marking a 38.44% year-on-year increase, driven by higher nickel sales volumes from its operations in Central and Southeast Sulawesi. The strong demand for nickel ore is supported by local smelters producing stainless steel and electric vehicle components, with the company ensuring supply without imports. This performance highlights the efficiency of DKFT's business model and the strategic accumulation of production under its work plan and budget.

Indonesia-China collaboration on poverty alleviation, adoption of industrialisation

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Transmigration, is strengthening ties with China to combat poverty by adopting successful industrialisation and downstreaming practices that have boosted societal welfare. Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara highlighted this as an implementation of the President's directive to accelerate poverty reduction and create more jobs, drawing from China's experience in relocating millions alongside infrastructure development. The model will be adapted in 154 transmigration areas, with a team of ministry officials and academics from top Indonesian universities soon visiting China for deeper insights.

HKI: President's Foreign Diplomacy Yields Investment to Accelerate Downstreaming - BCA Securities

Indonesia's Association of Industrial Estates (HKI) has commended President Prabowo Subianto's foreign diplomacy for securing significant investment commitments from countries including the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Japan, and South Korea. These efforts are expected to accelerate national industrial downstreaming and enhance energy resilience. HKI Chairman Akhmad Ma'ruf Maulana highlighted the President's proactive approach in fostering international partnerships to bolster Indonesia's economic development.

Antam Eyes Gold Mines as Far as Arabia

PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) is aggressively seeking new gold reserves due to the depleting output at its Pongkor unit, which currently produces only around 450 kg annually, far below 1 tonne. To meet production needs, the company relies on buybacks, domestic purchases, and imports, while also tasked with domestic exploration starting in East Java, though it may take five years to yield results. Additionally, Antam is exploring opportunities abroad, including in Saudi Arabia, to optimise existing assets and drive growth.

KSP on Observer Inflation: If the Data is Accurate, No Problem

The Head of the Presidential Staff Office, Muhammad Qodari, clarified that Cabinet Secretary Lt. Col. Teddy Indra Wijaya's remarks on "observer inflation" do not indicate government opposition to criticism, but rather emphasise the need for commentators to base their statements on accurate data and theories. Qodari stressed that this applies to all public figures, particularly academics, following Teddy's observation of unqualified experts spreading misleading information to influence public opinion even before President Prabowo Subianto's inauguration. Despite such efforts, Teddy highlighted Prabowo's overwhelming victory with over 96 million votes in the 2024 election as evidence of strong public trust.

UGM Mosque Channel Responds to JK's Sermon Deemed to Blaspheme Religion

The YouTube channel of UGM's campus mosque has urged viewers to watch former Vice President Jusuf Kalla's (JK) full lecture on Indonesian diplomacy rather than misleading clips, amid accusations of blasphemy against Christianity from Christian organisations like GAMKI, who have filed a police report. JK's spokesperson, Husain Abdullah, firmly denied the claims, explaining that JK was contextualising his historical role in mediating the Poso and Ambon conflicts in the early 2000s, correcting misconceptions where both sides misused religious terms like 'martyrdom' to justify violence, while emphasising that no religion teaches killing. This controversy highlights ongoing sensitivities around religious discourse in Indonesia, particularly involving high-profile figures discussing past communal conflicts.

PLN to Eliminate 2,139 Diesel Power Plant Engines

PT PLN (Persero) plans to eliminate 2,139 diesel engines at 741 PLTD locations, replacing them with renewable energy sources such as micro-hydro power plants (PLTMH) or solar power plants (PLTS) equipped with battery energy storage systems (BESS) to reduce reliance on expensive imported fuels and enhance energy resilience. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to accelerate the conversion of diesel plants to solar amid high oil prices, with the Investment Management Agency (BPI) Danantara tasked to address related issues. The move supports Indonesia's transition to cleaner, locally sourced energy, lowering operational costs and environmental impact.

KA Joglosemarkerto Records Highest Volume in First Quarter of 2026, Strengthening Intercity Mobility in Central Java and Surroundings

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero) reported a significant 18.40% increase in passenger numbers for long-distance and local train services in the first quarter of 2026, reaching 14.515.350 passengers compared to the previous year, highlighting growing mobility across Java. The KA Joglosemarkerto service led with the highest ridership, serving 246.101 passengers on its two main routes, underscoring the reliability and comfort of rail travel for intercity journeys. This growth supports daily activities such as work, education, and family visits while integrating cultural and economic hubs like Semarang, Solo, and Yogyakarta, with enhanced modern amenities boosting passenger satisfaction.