Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 April 2026

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Tanah Abang Market Traders Reveal When Fabric Prices Will Officially Rise

Fabric prices at Jakarta's Tanah Abang retail market remain stable as traders continue selling old stock without adjustments, despite upstream signals of impending increases due to global factors like war. Traders estimate a potential 10% hike in one to three months once new production arrives, while holding prices to maintain consumer demand amid fierce competition. This situation highlights the downstream lag in retail pricing amid broader economic pressures on production costs.

Tourists Heading to Gunungkidul Complain About Still Being Charged at Parangtritis TPR

Tourists travelling to Gunungkidul have sparked online controversy after being charged fees at the Parangtritis Toll Collection Point in Bantul, despite prior agreements to exempt them. Bantul's Tourism Office has clarified that such charges should not apply to those explicitly stating their destination as Gunungkidul, with instructions issued to toll officers since April to allow passage without payment. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing cross-regional tourism policies, potentially undermining transparent and accountable services for visitors.

Tulungagung Regency Ensures Services Remain Normal After KPK Sting Operation

Following a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation that led to the arrest of Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo and his aide on suspicion of extortion, the regency government has assured that public services and office activities continue uninterrupted. Several rooms in the regency office and Public Works Department have been sealed, but civil servants are utilising alternative spaces to maintain operations. The local administration is awaiting guidance from the Ministry of Home Affairs on filling the leadership vacancy, amid allegations that the regent targeted Rp5 billion in funds, with Rp2.7 billion secured during the raid.

Resbob, Defendant in Hate Speech Case Against Sundanese Ethnic Group, Faces 2.5-Year Prison Sentence

Indonesian YouTuber Adhimas Firdaus, known as Resbob, has been prosecuted for hate speech against the Sundanese ethnic group, facing a prison sentence of two years and six months under the new Criminal Code. The charges stem from a live stream on 8 December 2025, where Resbob, while driving and under the influence of alcohol, uttered derogatory remarks against the Sundanese people, broadcast to around 200 viewers. This case highlights the enforcement of laws against ethnic-based hostility in Indonesia, with potential implications for online content creators and freedom of expression.

Immigration Authorities Arrest 346 Foreign Nationals for Misusing Residence Permits and Involvement in Fictitious Investments

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has arrested 346 foreign nationals from 36 countries during the nationwide Operation Wira Waspada from 7-11 April 2026, primarily for misusing residence permits and other immigration violations such as unreported address changes, lacking valid documents, fictitious investments, and overstaying. The majority of those detained were from China (183), followed by Pakistan (21) and Nigeria (20), highlighting ongoing challenges in immigration enforcement. This operation underscores the government's commitment to proactive oversight while improving service efficiency, ensuring swift action against violations to maintain national security and regulatory compliance.

Rector: UI's PPKB Pathway Attracts Students from Across Indonesia

Universitas Indonesia's Rector, Heri Hermansyah, has emphasised that the Prestasi dan Pemerataan Kesempatan Belajar (PPKB) pathway is open to all high school graduates from across Indonesia in 2026, prioritising academic achievements to promote educational equity. This initiative aims to ensure the university's student body reflects the nation's diversity, alongside other admission routes like SIMAK UI and a new Global Talent pathway for international programmes. Registration for PPKB opens on 15 May and closes on 19 June, with selections based on school-reported academic performance and announcements before 1 July 2026.

West Java Health Department Launches Immunisation Drives in Several Regions to Anticipate Measles Outbreak

The West Java Health Department is urging health workers in areas with rising measles cases to conduct Outbreak Response Immunisation (ORI) targeting children aged 9 to 59 months, with programmes set for April 2026 in Tasikmalaya and Garut Regencies following earlier efforts in Garut. Alongside ORI, Catch-up Campaigns (CUC) for measles-rubella immunisation are ongoing in eight cities and regencies to achieve full coverage, supported by sufficient vaccine supplies and pending distribution of auto-disable syringes from the Ministry of Health. Officials emphasise rapid reporting of suspected cases, patient care protocols including isolation and vitamin A supplementation, and encourage the public to complete their immunisation schedules to curb the outbreak.

Gold Investment Becomes More Affordable, Starting at the Price of a Cup of Coffee

Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) is making gold investment more accessible to the public, particularly young people, by allowing purchases starting from as little as Rp 50,000—equivalent to the cost of a cup of coffee—through its digital BYOND app. This initiative promotes sharia-compliant financial literacy, with gold positioned as a stable and easy-to-understand asset that can be held digitally, converted to physical form, transferred, or even pawned in emergencies. As of February 2026, BSI manages 22.5 tons of gold, with significant growth in customers, and continues to expand education efforts through partnerships with universities and institutions to encourage early investment habits.

KPK Summons 5 Travel Agency Executives in Hajj Quota Corruption Case Involving Former Minister Yaqut

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is intensifying its investigation into the 2023-2024 Hajj quota corruption case at the Ministry of Religious Affairs by summoning five executives from various travel agencies as witnesses. This follows the recent designation of two new suspects, including the former operational director of PT Makassar Toraja and the commissioner of PT Raudah Eksati Utama, who allegedly bribed former Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas through his aide. With four suspects now in custody, the probe highlights systemic corruption in Hajj pilgrimage allocations, prompting calls for greater cooperation from those summoned to ensure effective evidence gathering.

National Police Criminal Investigation Agency States “Ki Bedil” is Well-Known Among Street Criminals

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency has arrested TS alias “Ki Bedil”, a notorious illegal firearms manufacturer known for producing high-quality weapons favoured by street criminals and illegal hunters. Operating undetected for 20 years through a discreet online ordering system with prices ranging from Rp15 million to Rp20 million, his capture is expected to reduce crime rates by disrupting the illegal arms trade. Police are now investigating his buyer network and other involved parties following the seizure of weapons from the arrest.

Delpedro, Muzaffar, Syahdan, and Khariq File Counter-Memoir of Cassation

Four former defendants in a suspected incitement case related to August 2025 demonstrations—Delpedro Marhaen, Muzaffar Salim, Syahdan Husein, and Khariq Anhar—have officially submitted a counter-memoir of cassation against the public prosecutor's cassation appeal. Their lawyers argue that the new Criminal Procedure Code restricts cassation appeals on acquittal decisions and emphasise the moral and human rights aspects of the original court's ruling, which upheld the defendants' rights to free expression and assembly. This legal move highlights tensions between state prosecution and fundamental freedoms in Indonesia, particularly for youth political expression.

Prabowo Accelerates to Russia, Targets New Oil Supplies

President Prabowo Subianto has embarked on his first official visit to Moscow to secure new oil supplies from Russia, accompanied by Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, amid global energy pressures. The trip focuses on strengthening bilateral energy cooperation to ensure Indonesia's long-term national energy resilience, including discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on stable oil provisions and geopolitical developments. This strategic move highlights Indonesia's efforts to diversify import sources beyond traditional suppliers like the Middle East and the US, emphasising competitive pricing and availability.

Minister Rosan: Issuance of NIB Reaches 15.8 Million by April 2026

The Indonesian government has recorded a total of approximately 15.8 million Business Identification Numbers (NIB) issued through the risk-based business licensing system since its launch, with Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Roeslani highlighting sustained business activity and high public interest in starting enterprises. In the five months from October 2025 to 8 April 2026, an additional 1.8 million NIBs were issued, attributed to new policies enhancing licensing certainty. The government is further strengthening the digital licensing system via the integrated Online Single Submission (OSS) platform to streamline processes and boost service efficiency for businesses.

OJK and Government Explore Insurance Scheme for 3 Million Houses Programme

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is collaborating with the government to develop an insurance scheme for the 3 Million Houses programme, aimed at protecting debtors and property assets from long-term risks such as death, earthquakes, fires, and floods over financing periods exceeding 10-20 years. Discussions are underway on whether premiums will be subsidised by the government or integrated into the housing facilities, viewing insurance not as a cost burden but as essential risk mitigation. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen the insurance and pension sector's role in national development, with OJK pushing for growth rates of 7-9% for insurance and 20-23% for pensions to meet RPJMN 2029 targets, amid current assets of Rp2,992 trillion showing robust fundamentals.

Betawi Sukapura Cultural Village Becomes a Space for Cultural Preservation

The Betawi Sukapura Cultural Village in North Jakarta serves as a vital space for preserving Betawi customs and culture through initiatives involving community leaders from Jabodetabek. Regular activities, including cultural training for the youth and the production of Sukapura Batik featuring local motifs like moringa leaves and asam vegetables, highlight efforts to sustain local heritage and foster economic empowerment. Jakarta's Deputy Governor Rano Karno has pledged ongoing support for facility development and encouraged artisans, particularly women, to create batik designs themed around Jakarta's 500th anniversary to benefit local communities.

X to Reduce Monetisation for "Clickbait" Accounts

X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk, is set to cut monetisation access for accounts flooding timelines with clickbait and rapid news aggregation, reducing payments by 40% initially and further in subsequent cycles. This move targets provocative posters and repeat offenders like creator Dom Lucre, who has faced repeated suspensions, aiming to protect genuine creators and foster new talent. The policy emerges amid broader debates on the platform's value, following disputes with analysts like Nate Silver over traffic referral effectiveness.

The 15th Five-Year Plan Will Bring Four Opportunities for Indonesia - Antara News Jatim

China's 15th Five-Year Plan, recently approved, outlines key economic and social development strategies through 2030, aiming for socialist modernisation by 2035, and presents significant opportunities for Indonesia in four areas: a vast consumer market, secure high-growth investments, advanced productivity exports, and enhanced people-to-people exchanges. Bilateral trade is projected to exceed $167.48 billion in 2025, with Indonesia's key exports like palm oil and rubber leading, while China's growing imports of up to $15 trillion offer new avenues for Indonesian products. The plan aligns with Indonesia's industrial downstreaming goals, supported by Chinese investments in areas like the Surabaya Waste-to-Energy Plant, fostering mutual industrial upgrades and shared benefits under the Belt and Road Initiative.

New OJK SLIK Regulation: Credit Records Below Rp 1 Million Can Apply for Subsidised Housing

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas have introduced a new regulation allowing individuals with credit records under Rp 1 million in the Financial Services Information System (SLIK) to apply for subsidised housing loans, marking a significant step in easing access to affordable homes. Minister Maruarar Sirait highlighted this as a hard-fought achievement under President Prabowo's administration, aimed at supporting the government's priority programme to build 3 million houses for Indonesians. OJK Chair Friderica Widyasari Dewi announced additional measures, including faster credit repayment updates, enhanced data access for BP Tapera, and the formation of a task force to accelerate implementation without bureaucratic hurdles.

MPR Deputy Calls for Concrete Steps to Curb Violence Against Children with Disabilities

Wakil Ketua MPR RI Lestari Moerdijat has urged immediate and concrete actions to address the emergency phase of systematic violence against children with disabilities in Indonesia, highlighting alarming statistics from the 2024 SNPHAR survey where 83.85% of children with disabilities aged 13-17 have experienced at least one form of violence in their lifetime. She cited recent cases, including fatal mob violence in Karawang, unresolved sexual assault in Lampung Selatan, and rape in Lamongan, as evidence of systemic protection failures. Rerie calls for uncompromising law enforcement, improved disability-friendly services in protection units and hospitals, early detection training for teachers and parents, and a societal shift to view people with disabilities as equals, fulfilling constitutional mandates for protection.

KPK Begins Summoning Witnesses in Cilacap THR Case Involving Syamsul Auliya

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has begun examining seven witnesses in the investigation into alleged extortion for holiday allowances (THR) for the regional leadership coordination forum in Cilacap Regency, Central Java, involving the suspended Regent Syamsul Auliya Rachman. The witnesses, including heads of various local government agencies, were questioned at the Cilacap Police Resort headquarters. This follows the KPK's arrest of Syamsul and 26 others in March 2026, where he was named a suspect for extorting Rp750 million, of which he obtained Rp610 million before being apprehended, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat corruption in local government.

Bareskrim Hunts Tosan, Crime Partner of 'The Doctor', Narcotics Supplier at THM

Indonesian National Police's Bareskrim is pursuing Tosan, the accomplice of drug lord Andre Fernando alias 'The Doctor', who supplied narcotics to the Whiterabbit nightclub in South Jakarta, following the issuance of a wanted list for him. Additionally, a wanted notice has been issued for Gede Suwitrayasa alias Desu, involved in drug distribution at the N Co Living by NIX club in Bali. These actions stem from recent arrests, including 'The Doctor' in Malaysia and the director of the Bali nightclub, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle drug networks in Indonesia's nightlife venues.

BTN Launches Loan Factory, Targeting Credit Approvals in Three Days

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN), a state-owned bank, has launched the BTN Loan Factory to accelerate the credit application process, particularly for home ownership loans (KPR), aiming for approvals within three days in the coming years and five days this year. Currently averaging six days, this initiative addresses customer complaints about lengthy processing times exceeding a month in some cases, by centralising and standardising operations to handle 220,000 to 250,000 annual applications more efficiently. The transformation is expected to enhance operational efficiency, reduce non-performing loans, and support BTN's growth into a globally competitive entity while providing customers with certainty in processing timelines.

MP: Intensify Awareness Campaign on No Furoda Hajj Visas for 2026

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII, An'im Falachuddin, has urged the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to ramp up public awareness efforts regarding the absence of furoda Hajj visas for 2026, aiming to prevent citizens from falling victim to scams. He called for strict sanctions against those offering such trips, emphasising the need to respect Saudi Arabia's decision and warning against deceptive promises of instant Hajj departures amid long waiting lists. The Ministry has confirmed that only legal Hajj visas are available this year, highlighting the risks of fraudulent offers proliferating on social media.

Muhammadiyah Central Leadership to Build Infusion Fluid Factory, Targeting Operations in 2028

The Central Leadership of Muhammadiyah is preparing to construct an infusion fluid factory through its new business entity, PT Suryavena Farma Indonesia, to enhance self-reliance in the health sector amid its network of 130 hospitals and over 300 clinics. The factory, located in Karangploso, Malang, East Java, is targeted to begin operations by late 2027 or early 2028, with an annual production capacity of 15 million bottles, primarily to meet internal needs while offering competitive pricing for broader market potential. This initiative addresses current supply inconsistencies from third-party manufacturing and is supported by feasibility studies from ITB and external financing.

Pramono on Rasuna Said Revitalisation: We Want to Make It Better

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has stated that the ongoing revitalisation of the pedestrian areas along Jalan HR Rasuna Said in South Jakarta aims to improve urban planning and address issues such as narrowed roadways and insufficient safe distances between pedestrians and vehicles. He assured that the Jakarta Provincial Government will implement necessary adjustments to ensure safety for all road users. The project is targeted for completion by 22 June, to be inaugurated as a birthday gift for the city, aspiring to match the standards of iconic corridors like Sudirman-Thamrin.

RI financial markets remain under control amid global pressure: govt

Indonesia's financial markets are maintaining stability despite global risk-off sentiment and capital outflows, with the rupiah depreciating only modestly to Rp17,121 per US dollar. Government official Noor Faisal Achmad highlighted solid domestic indicators, including a manufacturing PMI of 50.1, a US$1.27 billion trade surplus, controlled inflation at 3.48 percent, and 9.37 percent bank lending growth, underscoring resilient economic fundamentals. The government is committed to prudent fiscal management to sustain market confidence and limit the impact of external pressures.

OJK Encourages Utilisation of Property Insurance in the 3 Million Houses Programme, Here is the Scheme

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is promoting the integration of property insurance into Indonesia's 3 Million Houses programme to mitigate long-term risks such as death of debtors, earthquakes, fires, and floods over tenors up to 20 years. Discussions are ongoing regarding premium financing options, including government subsidies or blended schemes within this Strategic National Programme. Additionally, OJK is addressing the high out-of-pocket health expenditure, currently at Rp 175 trillion or 28.8% of total health spending, by coordinating with the government to encourage greater uptake of health insurance products like BPJS and commercial options.

Prabowo Arrives in Russia, Scheduled to Meet Putin

President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in Moscow for a state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and strategic cooperation with Russia, particularly in energy and global stability amid ongoing international conflicts. He is scheduled to meet President Vladimir Putin to discuss energy security, oil supply continuity, and Indonesia's strategic position in maintaining global peace. This marks Prabowo's third visit to Russia as president, underscoring the importance of the partnership for Indonesia's economic growth and national resilience.

Global Energy Prices in Turmoil, Electric Motorcycle Boss Says This

Amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East raising concerns over potential fuel price hikes in Indonesia, ALVA, a leading electric motorcycle producer, reports growing consumer interest driven by heightened awareness of operational costs. CEO Purbaja Pantja highlights that while energy price volatility acts as an initial catalyst, purchasing decisions are influenced by broader factors including ecosystem readiness, after-sales support, and long-term efficiency. This shift indicates a maturing market, particularly among urban commuters and digitally savvy consumers, positioning electric vehicles as a sustainable mobility solution for Indonesia.

Secretary General of Home Affairs Ministry Urges Local Governments to Intervene in Controlling Commodity Prices

The Secretary General of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Tomsi Tohir, has called on local governments to ensure the availability of red chillies, large chillies, and shallots amid rising prices due to supply shortages in various regions. He encouraged intensified planting efforts and coordination between deficit and surplus areas, as well as with the Ministry of Agriculture, to mitigate these recurring issues. This directive was issued during a coordination meeting on regional inflation control, highlighting the need for proactive measures to stabilise food prices and prevent future disruptions.

West Java Provincial Government Simplifies Vehicle Tax Payments: STNK Sufficient Without Original Owner's ID

The West Java Provincial Government has introduced a policy effective from 6 April 2026, allowing vehicle tax payments with just the vehicle registration (STNK) and the ID of the current possessor, eliminating the need for the original owner's ID card. This measure, announced by Governor Dedi Mulyadi, responds to complaints about unofficial fees imposed on citizens lacking the original ID, aiming to streamline services and boost tax compliance. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to facilitating tax payments and enhancing public participation in realising a superior West Java.

7% Growth: Rosan Projects Q1/2026 Investment Realisation to Reach Rp497 Trillion

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Rosan Roeslani, has projected that investment realisation for the first quarter of 2026 will reach approximately Rp497 trillion, marking a 7% year-on-year increase from Rp465.2 trillion in the same period last year. This growth is expected to absorb around 627,000 workers, a 5.5% rise from the previous year's figure of 594,104. Leading provinces include Jakarta with Rp74 trillion, followed by Central Java and East Java, while the basic metals industry and transportation sectors are anticipated to contribute the most, with investments primarily from Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States.

Willy's Joke Touches on NasDem-Gerindra Merger During DPR Meeting

During a DPR Commission XIII meeting on 13 April 2026, NasDem faction leader Willy Aditya jokingly referenced a potential merger between NasDem and Gerindra parties while facilitating discussions on Pancasila ideology development. The humour arose from the proximity of NasDem's Muslim Ayub and Gerindra's Anwar Sadad, with Willy quipping about an empty seat as a 'bridge' between them and alluding to the parties' headquarters. This light-hearted remark follows reports that President Prabowo Subianto proposed the merger to NasDem chairman Surya Paloh during a February meeting, highlighting ongoing political alignments in Indonesia.

Universitas Indonesia and Muhammadiyah Sign MoU for Collaboration, Including Faculty Exchanges

Universitas Indonesia (UI) and Muhammadiyah have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance the quality of education in Indonesia through faculty exchanges and potential double degree programmes. UI Rector Heri Hermansyah emphasised the importance of collaborative growth to distribute educational strengths nationwide and achieve global competitiveness. Muhammadiyah Chairman Haedar Nashir highlighted the strategic partnership's role in building a competitive, character-driven workforce ahead of Indonesia's centennial in 2045, addressing current educational gaps within ASEAN.

Poltracking Survey on Presidential and Vice-Presidential Candidates: Prabowo and Gibran Lead

A Poltracking Indonesia survey conducted from 2-8 March 2025 reveals that President Prabowo Subianto tops the list of potential presidential candidates with 32.9% electability, followed by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi at 13.5%, while Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka leads the vice-presidential preferences at 26.8%. The poll, involving 1,220 respondents selected via multistage random sampling, highlights a significant portion of undecided voters—28.8% for president and 38.8% for vice president—indicating an early snapshot of the political landscape ahead of future elections. This data underscores the current prominence of incumbent leaders in spontaneous voter responses, offering insights into emerging political dynamics in Indonesia.

Overhauling OSS, Government Implements AI and Blockchain in Business Licensing

The Indonesian Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM is enhancing the Online Single Submission (OSS) system by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain to streamline business licensing processes. This overhaul, expected to launch this year, aims to accelerate approvals, reduce face-to-face interactions, and minimise uncertainties, building on the success of Government Regulation No. 28/2025, which has already boosted the issuance of Business Identification Numbers (NIB) to 15.8 million since 2021. The positive fiction mechanism ensures timely responses from 18 ministries and agencies, enhancing investor confidence both domestically and internationally.

Government Claims Middle East Conflict Makes Indonesia More Attractive to Investors

Indonesia's Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani has stated that ongoing tensions in the Middle East are creating new opportunities for the country, as investors increasingly view Indonesia as a stable and promising destination amid global uncertainties. He highlighted Indonesia's political stability, security, and non-aligned foreign policy as key attractions, which are drawing intensive communications from potential investors previously focused on the region. The government is actively working to minimise economic uncertainties to further boost investor confidence and long-term commitments.

PLN Chief Reveals Latest Condition of Indonesia's Electricity Supply and Reserves

PT PLN (Persero) has reported that the national electricity system remains in a normal state until March 2026, with a net installed capacity of 71.15 GW and a reserve margin of 39%, ensuring reliable supply to meet national demands. In the Java-Madura-Bali system, capacity stands at 49 GW with a 39.2% reserve, while Sumatra-Bangka has 11.9 GW and 38.2%, supporting economic growth. Fuel supplies are secure, with LNG deliveries scheduled without issues and coal stocks sufficient for 15.90 days of operation, thanks to support from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

KPK: 11 witnesses have been returned to Tulungagung

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has released and returned 11 out of 13 Tulungagung Regency officials, who were witnesses in a corruption case, back to their home area after completing examinations, with no further questioning required. Meanwhile, Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo and his aide Dwi Yoga Ambal remain in custody as suspects in an alleged extortion scheme targeting Rp5 billion from local government agencies, of which KPK seized Rp2.7 billion during a sting operation. The KPK continues to investigate potential involvement of other parties in this case.

Pure Electric Vehicles to Dominate 90% of China's Market by 2040

Professor Ouyang Minggao predicts that China's automotive industry will shift decisively towards battery electric vehicles (BEVs), with plug-in hybrids and extended-range EVs declining due to the superior efficiency of pure electric systems in utilising green energy. Market share for new energy vehicles (NEVs) is projected to reach 70% by 2030, stabilise above 80% by 2035, and see BEVs dominating 90% by 2040, marking a pivotal advancement for China's global automotive leadership. This transformation will resolve debates on eco-friendly vehicle technologies, though producers are urged to avoid overhype around emerging solid-state batteries expected by decade's end.

Iran Threatens All Arab Ports Over Trump's Hormuz Blockade

Iran's military has warned that no ports in the Persian Gulf or Arabian Sea will be safe if its own ports are threatened, in direct response to US President Donald Trump's announcement of a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian command labelled the US action as illegal piracy and vowed a strong retaliation, while the US Central Command clarified that the blockade would allow passage to non-Iranian ports. This escalation, affecting a vital route for 20% of global oil supplies, risks intensifying the global energy crisis and hindering prospects for peace between the two nations.

Sultan HB X Highlights Changes in Gunungkidul Over the Past 10 Years: Infrastructure Advances but Not Yet Evenly Distributed

Sultan Hamengkubuwono X, Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, has noted significant transformations in Gunungkidul Regency over the last decade, particularly in infrastructure that has improved regional connectivity, though access remains minimally adequate. While economic growth is concentrated in the southern coastal areas, he emphasised the need for more equitable development to benefit all communities, extending beyond the coast to underdeveloped regions. To achieve this, the Sultan is promoting the Lumbung Mataram programme, which aims to bolster rural economies through agriculture and livestock sectors, fostering broader welfare distribution.

BGN Hires EO for Rp113 Billion, MBG Head Speaks Out

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has come under scrutiny for allocating Rp113.9 billion to hire event organisers (EO) for activities related to the 2025 Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG). BGN Head Dadan Hindayana defended the decision, stating that as a newly formed entity, the agency lacks the internal resources to manage large-scale events independently and requires professional support to ensure efficiency and quality. He emphasised that this approach enhances transparency, accountability, and the effective dissemination of public messages on national nutrition issues.

Video: How BPJS Kesehatan Secures Data for 280 Million Participants and Thousands of Healthcare Facilities

BPJS Kesehatan, Indonesia's national health insurance provider, is leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance data management for its 280 million participants and 27,000 healthcare facilities, aiming to improve public health services. The organisation is bolstering its technological infrastructure with GPU systems and internet access while strengthening cybersecurity measures in line with ISO standards and coordination with government bodies like Komdigi, BSSN, and the Ministry of Health. Additionally, BPJS Kesehatan promotes education for healthcare facilities and participants to ensure data security and build digital talent competencies.

Economist Warns of Fiscal Illusion: Reliance on Seized Funds Could Erode APBN Credibility

An economist from the Center of Reform on Economics (CORE) has cautioned the Indonesian government against depending on state revenues from seized assets to support the budget, as such non-recurring funds create an illusion of fiscal space and undermine budgetary credibility. He advocates for sustainable measures, including prioritising spending efficiency and stabilising revenue through tax extensions and windfall taxes. This comes after the Attorney General's Office handed over Rp 11.4 trillion in fines and recovered funds to the Finance Ministry, primarily from forestry violations and corruption cases.

DPR's Response to the Airspace Access Agreement for the US

The Deputy Chairman of DPR Commission I, Sukamta, has stated that the commission is monitoring plans for a cooperation agreement granting the US military blanket overflight access in Indonesian airspace, describing the information as speculative. He emphasised the need for legislative consultation on such defence agreements to safeguard national sovereignty and interests, urging careful consideration of regional geopolitical implications. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the agreement remains in internal discussions and lacks binding legal force, affirming Indonesia's full authority over its airspace.

SPAM Draft Regional Regulation Urged to Protect Low-Income Communities

Nearly all political party factions in the Jakarta DPRD have emphasised the need for the Draft Regional Regulation on the Provision of Drinking Water Systems (Raperda SPAM) to include robust protections for low-income communities (MBR) to ensure affordable access to clean water. Key concerns raised include targeted subsidies that are transparent and accountable, maintaining the sector as a public utility, and addressing challenges in underserved areas like northern Jakarta amid economic difficulties. This push underscores the commitment to social justice and equitable access to a basic necessity in the capital.

Government Studies Family Office Scheme to Attract Global Funds

The Indonesian government is exploring the implementation of a Family Office scheme, inspired by the successful model in Abu Dhabi, to draw in global investment funds. Minister of Investment Rosan Roeslani stated that discussions with the National Economic Council are underway to examine necessary regulations and operational mechanisms for effective execution. The initiative includes assessing potential inflows of funds and adapting technical aspects, such as common law systems, to suit Indonesia's context.

To Prevent Extortion, DPRD Member Proposes Cashless Parking in Tanah Abang

A member of the DKI Jakarta DPRD Commission C has condemned the rampant extortion faced by bajaj drivers in the Tanah Abang area, particularly illegal parking fees disguised as official charges reaching up to Rp 100,000, which harm small-scale workers. He proposes implementing a cashless parking system across strategic areas in the capital to digitally record transactions and eliminate unofficial practices. Additionally, he calls for stricter enforcement by authorities like Satpol PP and the police to patrol and penalise offenders, aiming for long-term parking reforms to protect vulnerable communities.

Prosecutor in Rembang Allegedly Trades Light Sentence for Rp140 Million

A prosecutor from the Rembang District Prosecutor's Office, identified by initials DAW, is under investigation by the Central Java High Prosecutor's Office for allegedly promising a lenient sentence to the defendant in an online gambling case in exchange for Rp140 million. The defendant, Ike Nur Kumala Dewi, who offered gambling sites via social media, was ultimately sentenced to 10 months in prison after the prosecutor demanded one year. This case highlights serious concerns over corruption and integrity within Indonesia's judicial system.