Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 April 2026

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Indonesian Investment Projected to Absorb 627,000 Workers

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Rosan Roeslani, expressed optimism that first-quarter 2026 investment realisation will reach approximately Rp497 trillion, marking a seven per cent annual growth and aligning with national planning targets. This contributes to the overall 2026 national investment goal of Rp2,041.3 trillion, aimed at driving eight per cent economic growth under the 2025-2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan, with downstreaming sectors accounting for 30 per cent of inflows. Key subsectors include basic metals, transportation and telecommunications, and mining, while major regional contributions are expected from Jakarta, West Java, East Java, Central Sulawesi, and Banten, bolstered by political stability and a conducive investment climate attracting Middle Eastern investors.

Deputy Speaker of DPR Concerned Over 6 Regional Heads Caught in KPK Stings Since Early 2026

Wakil Ketua DPR RI Saan Mustopa has expressed deep concern over the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducting sting operations against six regional heads—four regents and two mayors—since the beginning of 2026. He urged all regional leaders, particularly those from Partai NasDem, to manage their desires and avoid exploiting positions of power for personal material gain, emphasising that authority should serve the public interest. This wave of arrests, including the most recent involving Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo, underscores ongoing challenges in combating corruption at the local government level in Indonesia.

Poltracking: Public Satisfied with Prabowo-Gibran Performance Due to Free Nutritious Meals and Targeted Aid

A Poltracking Indonesia survey reveals that 74.1% of the public is satisfied with the performance of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, primarily due to the flagship Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme and the government's targeted assistance efforts. The survey, conducted from 2-8 March 2026 with 1,220 respondents, highlights the programme's prominence despite controversies, while 13.8% of satisfaction stems from aid delivery accuracy. This approval underscores public perception of Prabowo's firm and authoritative leadership style amid domestic and international tensions.

Q1 2026 Investment Realisation Projected to Exceed Rp 497 Trillion

Indonesia's investment realisation for the first quarter of 2026 reached Rp 497 trillion, marking a 7% year-on-year increase from Rp 465 trillion the previous year and contributing 24.3% towards the annual target. This achievement, dominated by investors from Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, and the US, is expected to absorb 627,036 jobs, up 5.5% from last year, despite global geopolitical challenges. The government remains optimistic about meeting its Rp 2,041.3 trillion national target for 2026, supported by political stability and a conducive investment climate, aligning with long-term economic growth plans under the RPJMN 2025–2029.

How to Check Social Assistance from the Ministry of Social Affairs via Mobile Phone, Plus Guides for Proposals, Objections, and Viewing Deciles

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs provides a mobile app and official website for citizens to check eligibility for social assistance programmes like PKH and BPNT, based on decile rankings that measure household welfare. The article details step-by-step processes for verifying status, submitting proposals or objections, and understanding decile categories, which range from 1 (poorest) to 10 (wealthiest), with benefits targeted at lower deciles. This digital facilitation enhances accessibility and transparency in government welfare distribution, allowing real-time updates and corrections to ensure aid reaches those in need.

Rosan Reveals High Investment Interest in Indonesia Despite War in Iran

Indonesia's Minister of Investment Rosan Roeslani has stated that investor interest in the country remains strong despite geopolitical tensions, including the conflict in Iran. Realised investments reached Rp 497 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, surpassing the Rp 465 trillion target and creating over 627,000 jobs, with downstreaming contributing 30% of inflows. Major investors from Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, and the US continue to prioritise Indonesia for its political stability and improving investment climate.

Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz Halts Immediately After US Announces Blockade

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has come to a complete standstill following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a naval blockade on Iranian ports, effective from Monday at 14:00 GMT. This disruption occurred amid failed direct talks between Washington and Tehran in Islamabad, despite a two-week ceasefire mediated by Pakistan, exacerbating tensions after accusations that Iran failed to reopen international waterways. The development, reported by London-based maritime intelligence, underscores the fragility of global trade routes and potential economic repercussions from the ongoing conflict that began on 28 February.

OJK to Revamp SLIK Regulations by End of June 2026, Making Homeownership Easier for Low-Income Groups

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) plans to overhaul the Financial Information Services System (SLIK) regulations by the end of June 2026 to support the government's priority programme of building 3 million homes. Key changes include displaying only credit records above Rp 1 million and accelerating the update of loan repayment data to within three days, which will simplify access to housing financing for low-income earners (MBR). This initiative, coordinated with the Ministry of Housing and relevant associations, also grants access to SLIK data for the National Housing Savings Management Agency (Tapera) and reinforces subsidies for affordable housing as a national priority.

The Tug-of-War Between the Dollar and Rupiah: They Can't Both Be Strong

David E. Sumual, Chief Economist at Bank Central Asia, explained that the US dollar and Indonesian rupiah cannot appreciate simultaneously due to the zero-sum nature of exchange rates, likening it to surfing volatile global waves. He highlighted protective measures by the government and Bank Indonesia, including swap agreements with countries like China and Japan providing a US$100 billion secondary buffer, and increased thresholds for non-spot transactions to distribute pressure away from the spot market. These steps aim to mitigate rupiah volatility and prevent wild fluctuations, especially amid uncertain global conditions.

Foreign Investment Flows: Indonesia Reaps New Commitments Amid Global Conflicts

Indonesia's Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming reports that global conflicts have not significantly impacted foreign direct investment, with major investors from China, Japan, and South Korea reaffirming their commitments during recent presidential visits. Minister Rosan Roeslani highlighted strong investor confidence in Indonesia's economic prospects, particularly in various industries and downstreaming projects, despite geopolitical tensions. Additionally, domestic investment registrations have surged to 1.8 million in the last five months, signalling robust national growth potential.

Tito Urges Local Governments in North Sumatra with Minimal Disaster Impact to Send Funds to Aceh

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, has urged local governments in North Sumatra that were minimally or not affected by recent disasters to redirect portions of their additional funding to more severely impacted areas in Aceh through inter-regional grants. During a meeting with Commission II of the DPR, Tito highlighted examples such as Medan receiving Rp565 billion and Deli Serdang Rp493 billion, suggesting allocations like Rp30 billion from Simalungun to North Aceh and Rp25 billion to Gayo Lues and Central Aceh. This initiative aims to accelerate disaster response efforts, emphasising humanitarian support and seeking parliamentary backing for optimal implementation.

KPK Examines Former Acting Pati Regional Secretary in Case of Inactive Regent Sudewo

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Riyoso, the former Acting Regional Secretary of Pati, for questioning as a witness in the ongoing corruption case involving alleged extortion of village apparatus candidates by inactive Regent Sudewo. The examination took place on Monday, with another private sector witness, Hindarto, also scheduled, though the specific details to be probed remain undisclosed. In the case, KPK has named four suspects, including Sudewo, who is accused of imposing fees of Rp 125-150 million on candidates, later inflated by his subordinates to Rp 165-225 million, leading to the seizure of Rp 2.6 billion; this scandal highlights persistent graft in local government appointments.

Indonesia's Baznas delivers 15,000 staple packages to Palestinians

Indonesia's National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has successfully delivered 15,000 staple food packages to Palestinians in Gaza, following extensive international coordination with partners like Egypt’s Misr El Kheir Foundation. This aid, raised through public donations, addresses the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by Israel's military actions and underscores Indonesia's ongoing commitment to supporting Palestine. Baznas highlighted its broader efforts this year, including providing clean water, iftar meals, emergency classrooms, and an ambulance, while urging continued public contributions for targeted relief.

Nine Retired TNI Officers Sue Metro Police in Jokowi Diploma Case, Demand Improved Investigation

Nine retired Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) officers have filed a citizen lawsuit against the Metro Jaya Police's General Criminal Investigation Directorate at the South Jakarta District Court, urging improvements in the handling of the case alleging irregularities in President Joko Widodo's diploma, which involves telematics expert Roy Suryo. The plaintiffs, led by retired Navy Lieutenant Commander Moeryono Aladin, claim the police erred in applying legal articles and managing the investigation process, particularly regarding report reception via the Integrated Police Service Centre (SPKT). The hearing was adjourned due to incomplete documents from a potential intervening party, highlighting ongoing procedural challenges in this politically sensitive matter.

BPS Finds 11,000 Beneficiary Families No Longer Eligible for Social Assistance

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has identified 11,014 families receiving social assistance who are no longer eligible, classified as an inclusion error for being in the higher economic deciles outside the primary target group. This discovery stems from the latest update to the 2026 National Integrated Socio-Economic Database (DTSEN), which refined family and individual data to account for population dynamics like births, deaths, and reactivations. The update increased the total family count to 95.3 million and individuals to 289.3 million, representing just 0.06% of the 18.15 million first-quarter beneficiaries, underscoring efforts to enhance the accuracy and targeting of social welfare programmes.

Philippines Accuses Chinese Fishermen of Poisoning Disputed South China Sea Waters

The Philippines has accused Chinese fishermen of dumping cyanide into the waters around the Spratly Islands, specifically near Second Thomas Shoal, in an act of sabotage aimed at depleting local fish populations and threatening Filipino naval personnel. Philippine authorities seized cyanide bottles from Chinese vessels and observed further poisoning incidents, prompting increased patrols and plans for a diplomatic protest against Beijing. This escalation highlights ongoing territorial tensions in the South China Sea, where China's expansive claims lack international legal basis and have led to previous violent confrontations.

US Negotiating Full Military Access to Indonesian Airspace? Here is the Ministry of Defense's Response

The Indonesian government and the United States are reportedly engaged in intensive discussions over a proposal granting US military aircraft blanket overflight permissions across Indonesian airspace, amid claims that President Prabowo Subianto has already approved the Pentagon's strategic request. The Ministry of Defense has clarified that circulating documents are merely initial drafts under internal and inter-agency review, with no binding legal force, and emphasised that all defence cooperation prioritises national interests, full sovereignty, and compliance with national and international law. The ministry reaffirmed Indonesia's absolute authority to approve or reject any activities in its airspace, as high-level meetings between the two nations' defence officials proceed to explore broader military ties.

Behind a Bowl of Tambun Porridge, There's a Raw Material Supplier Reaping Turnover of Rp 10 Million

In Tambun Selatan, Bekasi, Sina Eka Prajna runs a vital supply business providing ingredients and equipment for the area's famous chicken porridge vendors, turning her initial sundry goods trade into a specialised operation. She supplies essentials like peeled shallots, fermented radish (tongcai), rice, and packaging materials to around 40 regular customers, with daily sales of shallots reaching 40-50 kg during peak weekends. This local entrepreneurship highlights the supportive ecosystem behind Tambun's culinary tradition, contributing to the vendors' success and generating substantial turnover.

BI forecasts retail sales performance in March 2026 to continue growing

Bank Indonesia's Retail Sales Survey indicates that the Real Sales Index for March 2026 is expected to grow by 2.4% year-on-year, down from February's 6.5% growth, driven by sales in spare parts, food and beverages, and cultural goods. Monthly growth is projected at 9.3%, boosted by demand during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, while February saw a 6.5% annual increase and 4.1% monthly rise. Inflation expectations show a slight uptick in the next three months due to rising raw material prices, but stability over six months.

Europe Candidly States That America and China Cannot Be Trusted

A POLITICO survey reveals that over 80% of Europeans distrust US and Chinese tech companies with handling personal data responsibly, with even higher scepticism towards Chinese firms at 93%. This sentiment underscores the EU's push to develop local technologies in AI, cloud services, and telecom to reduce reliance on foreign giants, amid concerns over conflicting domestic security laws that could grant governments access to user data despite GDPR compliance. While trust in European tech companies stands at 51% and national governments at 45%, variations exist across countries like Germany showing peak distrust and Poland relative openness.

IDX Announces 18 Issuers to Be Delisted This Year

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has announced the delisting of 18 issuers effective 10 November 2026, divided into seven bankrupt companies and eleven that have been suspended for over 50 months. This action follows multiple warnings and aims to protect investors by removing non-compliant entities from the market. IDX Director I Gede Nyoman Yetna emphasised that ample opportunities for fundamental improvements were provided, with buyback periods scheduled from 11 May to 9 November 2026.

Paying Vehicle Taxes in West Java Without Original ID Card, But Not Yet Optimal

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has introduced a policy allowing residents to renew vehicle taxes using only the vehicle registration (STNK) without needing the original ID card of the first owner, effective from 6 April 2026, aimed at simplifying procedures and boosting tax compliance to increase regional revenue. While residents in areas like Bekasi praise the initiative for easing payments especially for second-hand vehicle buyers who haven't transferred ownership, implementation appears inconsistent with some offices still requiring ID proofs and outdated notices. The policy addresses common barriers like the complexity and cost of ownership transfers, which often push people towards illegal brokers, though the provincial government continues to urge proper name changes for legal ownership.

SUSTAIN says rooftop solar and power wheeling will accelerate 100 GW target

The Indonesian Sustainable Welfare Foundation (SUSTAIN) advocates for rooftop solar and power wheeling schemes as key mechanisms to rapidly achieve President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious 100 GW solar energy target without burdening the state budget or increasing debt. These approaches would engage households and private sectors, potentially adding 2.9-5.8 GW of capacity from residential installations alone, while allowing PLN to generate revenue through wheeling fees and ensuring green energy supply for multinational firms aiming to reduce emissions. With renewable energy currently at just 15.75% of the national mix, this acceleration is vital for bolstering Indonesia's energy security amid global uncertainties.

City Government Pushes SMEs to Advance through Halal Certification Facilitation

The North Jakarta City Government, via its Industrial, Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises Office, is empowering local SMEs through free technical guidance on obtaining halal certification to boost their competitiveness. The programme, held in Koja from 13-15 April 2026, involved 150 participants from the culinary and light beverage sectors, in collaboration with LPPOM MUI, aiming to enhance product market access both locally and nationally. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to transforming SMEs, as exemplified by participants like Dwi Suratmi of Kitcheri, who see it as key to building consumer trust and expanding their businesses.

Willy Aditya's Joke at DPR Meeting on NasDem Merger with Gerindra

During a House of Representatives Commission XIII meeting in Jakarta, Chairman Willy Aditya light-heartedly joked about a potential merger between NasDem and Gerindra parties while inviting members from both factions to speak on the roadmap for Pancasila ideology and the BPIP bill. 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 from attendees and playfully referenced the parties' headquarters and President Prabowo's residence. This humorous interlude highlights the informal camaraderie among lawmakers amid discussions on national ideology fostering.

Rosan Confident Rp 497 T Investment Target for Q1-2026 Will Be Achieved

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Rosan Roeslani, expressed optimism that the Rp 497 trillion investment target for the first quarter of 2026 has been met, marking a 7% annual growth and projected to create 627,000 jobs, a 5.5% increase. Investments are primarily from domestic sources and foreign countries including Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States, amid ongoing global challenges. This achievement supports the government's broader goal of 8% economic growth from 2025-2029, with total investment needs estimated at Rp 13,032.8 trillion by 2029, a 43% rise from the previous decade.

Mayor Farhan: Bandung Zoo Investment Opportunities Reach Rp50 Billion

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has announced that investment opportunities for managing Bandung Zoo could exceed Rp50 billion in the first two years, emphasising the need for a reputable conservation institution to handle the significant budget. The city is conducting a rigorous selection process involving 85 invited legal conservation bodies, overseen by central, provincial, and local governments, with public participation to ensure transparency. This initiative, attracting international interest, aims to establish world-class management standards, with selections narrowing by the end of April 2026.

Environment Minister urges end to open dumping to reduce landfill fire risks

Indonesia's Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has directed local governments to phase out open dumping practices by August, transitioning to controlled landfills to mitigate environmental impacts and prevent fires during the dry season. This follows a cooperation agreement in North Sulawesi for waste-to-energy projects, where only four out of 15 districts have adopted safer methods, amid rising methane emissions contributing to landfill blazes. The minister has coordinated with law enforcement for potential legal action against non-compliant regions, highlighting the national daily waste generation of 141,926 tonnes, with 37,001 tonnes currently managed.

Building Strategic Reserves of National Industrial Raw Materials

The escalation of conflict between the US-Israel axis and Iran in early April 2026 has caused Brent crude oil prices to surge 42% to over $100 per barrel, posing a severe threat to Indonesia's fiscal stability and exposing vulnerabilities in its manufacturing sector. With domestic oil production covering only a third of consumption and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz affecting global supply chains for oil and fertilisers, industries reliant on naphtha, ethane, and butane for petrochemicals face operational challenges and rising costs. This crisis underscores the urgent need for Indonesia to develop strategic reserves of essential raw materials to safeguard its economy and prevent price hikes from burdening consumers.

National Police Criminal Investigation Unit Busts Malaysia-Riau Drug Network, Seizes Evidence Worth Rp72 Billion

Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Unit (Bareskrim) has dismantled an international drug trafficking network operating between Malaysia and Riau province, seizing narcotics worth Rp72 billion including 30 kilograms of methamphetamine (sabu) and 20,000 ecstasy pills. The operation led to the arrest of two couriers, with a third suspect escaping after discarding part of the shipment, which was intended for distribution to Madura. Authorities claim this bust has prevented 170,000 people from potential drug abuse, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat cross-border narcotics smuggling.

House Commission I Hopes Prabowo and Putin Advocate for Permanent Iran-US Ceasefire

Indonesian House Commission I member Oleh Soleh has expressed support for President Prabowo Subianto's visit to Moscow, where he is scheduled to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin on 13 April 2026, amid complex global geopolitics, particularly in the Middle East and energy security. Soleh emphasised that Indonesia and Russia can play a key role in promoting world peace by proposing a permanent ceasefire between Iran and the United States, as well as halting various armed conflicts. He highlighted Russia's strategic position in communicating with Iranian leaders following stalled US negotiations in Pakistan, opening opportunities for broader diplomacy involving Indonesia as a consistent Non-Aligned Movement advocate.

DPR Member Asserts No Legal Basis for US Military Aircraft to Fly Freely in Indonesian Skies

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives has stated that there is no legal foundation allowing unrestricted access for US military aircraft in Indonesian airspace, emphasising that all foreign flights, especially military ones, must adhere to strict permitting procedures. The circulating reports about granting broad access remain speculative without official government confirmation, underscoring the need for caution against premature conclusions. Sukamta highlighted Indonesia's openness to defence cooperation but stressed that any agreements impacting sovereignty must undergo parliamentary oversight and formal legal processes.

Foreign Tourist Levy Revenue in Bali Reaches Rp 71.4 Billion in January-March 2026

Revenue from the Foreign Tourist Levy in Bali reached over Rp 71.4 billion during the first quarter of 2026, marking an 11.63% monthly increase compared to the previous period. Foreign tourist arrivals rose by 2.4% to over 1.645 million, while domestic visitors increased by 4% to 968,313. Officials aim to meet the annual target of Rp 500 billion through enhanced cooperation with immigration authorities to prevent revenue leakages.

AMPHURI Comments on Hajj 'War Ticket' Proposal: From Loss of Sense of Justice to Managed Funds

The Indonesian Association of Hajj and Umrah Organisers (AMPHURI) has expressed cautious support for the government's proposed 'war ticket' mechanism for Hajj, aimed at addressing long waiting lists, but urges comprehensive review to ensure fairness and legal certainty. Secretary General Zaky Zakaria emphasised that while the idea is a policy innovation, it must align with laws like the 2025 Hajj Management Act and not exacerbate inequalities for low-income pilgrims or disrupt the Rp170 trillion in managed funds held by the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH). AMPHURI attributes the structural waiting issues to global quotas, population growth, and rising demand rather than BPKH's operations.

Rosan Predicts 7 Percent Growth in First Quarter 2026 Investment

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani announced that 2025 investment realisation reached Rp 1,931.2 trillion, surpassing the target of Rp 1,905.6 trillion, with first-quarter 2026 projected at Rp 479 trillion, marking a 7 percent annual growth and absorbing 627,000 jobs, up 5.5 percent. He attributed this optimism to Indonesia's political stability and security, attracting foreign capital from the Middle East amid regional tensions, bolstered by President Prabowo Subianto's international promotion efforts, though challenges like business certainty remain. This projection underscores Indonesia's improving investment climate and potential for economic expansion.

BI: Global Commodity Price Pressures Have a Positive Impact on Indonesia

Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti stated that global commodity price pressures from the US-Israel-Iran conflict are largely beneficial for Indonesia, as the country is a major exporter of coal, crude palm oil (CPO), and gold, which have seen price increases alongside rising oil prices. While oil price surges to $100 per barrel due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and failed ceasefire talks pose challenges, the gains in other key exports offset these effects. This situation highlights Indonesia's diversified commodity portfolio as a buffer against global energy shocks.

Hearing on Response to Exception in Bank Branch Head Murder Case Scheduled for 15 April

The Military Court II-08 in Jakarta has scheduled a hearing on 15 April 2026 to address the prosecution's official response to the defence's exceptions in the case involving the alleged kidnapping and murder of a 37-year-old bank branch head identified as MIP. Military Prosecutor Major (Chk) Wasinton Marpaung stated that the Oditurat Militer II-07 Jakarta will thoroughly review and respond to all points raised by the defence while upholding the indictment. This upcoming session is crucial as it will determine whether the trial proceeds to the evidence stage or faces potential dismissal, highlighting ongoing tensions in the military justice process for this high-profile case.

Police Uncover Ki Bedil's 20-Year Illegal Firearm Sales, Prices Up to Rp 20 Million

Indonesian police have arrested TS, alias 'Ki Bedil', a skilled artisan who has been manufacturing and selling illegal homemade firearms for 20 years, with prices ranging from Rp 15 million to Rp 20 million for pistols and long-barrel rifles boasting high accuracy. Operating covertly and serving trusted clients, Ki Bedil evaded capture until a major crackdown in West Java's Cipacing area forced him underground. Authorities are now tracing buyers to curb street crime and reduce societal violence linked to these weapons.

What is the Godzilla El Niño Until October 2026 and How Significant is Its Impact?

The "Godzilla" El Niño, a term for an exceptionally strong El Niño event, is predicted to potentially affect Indonesia during the dry season from April to October 2026, leading to prolonged drought and reduced rainfall. Popularised by NASA in 2015, this phenomenon could be exacerbated by a positive Indian Ocean Dipole, as noted by BRIN, while BMKG states current ENSO conditions remain neutral. NOAA forecasts a 62% probability of El Niño development between June and August 2026, highlighting potential severe weather impacts on the region.

Strengthening Digital Oversight, Ministry of Transportation Targets Owners and Operators of ODOL Trucks

The Directorate General of Land Transportation under the Ministry of Transportation is implementing a comprehensive digital transformation to enhance monitoring of over-dimension and overweight (ODOL) vehicles, utilising technologies such as ETLE cameras and Weigh in Motion bridges for faster detection and enforcement. This approach aims to hold not only drivers but also cargo owners and transport operators accountable for violations, while minimising opportunities for illegal levies through reduced field interactions. The initiative supports the goal of achieving zero ODOL by 2027, emphasising road safety and the elimination of tolerance for such practices.

Don't Panic, Indonesian Citizens: The Rupiah's Fundamental Strength is Solid!

The Indonesian rupiah opened weaker against the US dollar on Monday, trading at Rp17,100 per dollar, amid global dollar strength, but experts from BCA and Bank Indonesia affirm its solid fundamentals. Key indicators include a manageable current account deficit of 0.69%, inflation within the 2.5% ±1% target at 3.48%, and foreign exchange reserves of US$148.2 billion, sufficient for six months of imports and debt payments. Despite short-term pressures from global risks like Middle East conflicts, the rupiah is expected to strengthen in the medium to long term.

KPAI Supports Law Enforcement Against Non-Compliant "Naughty" Digital Platforms Failing to Adhere to PP Tunas

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has urged digital platforms to swiftly comply with Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Child Protection in Electronic System Governance (PP Tunas), emphasising that child protection in the digital realm cannot be delayed. KPAI supports legal enforcement against non-compliant platforms, including those already sanctioned, such as Google, which received a written warning on 9 April 2026 for failing to meet the regulation's requirements. This push comes as the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) monitors compliance levels since the regulation's implementation on 28 March 2026, with some platforms like TikTok and Meta committing to gradual adjustments.

Pramono Assures Groundwater Use Not Banned in Areas Not Yet Covered by PAM Jaya

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has clarified that the policy restricting groundwater use will be implemented gradually, applying only to buildings in active piped water service zones managed by PAM Jaya, while exempting areas without such coverage. This measure aims to curb groundwater exploitation, control land subsidence, and promote sustainable environmental practices by shifting reliance to piped water systems. Legislative opposition from DPRD factions like Golkar and PKB emphasises the need to accelerate infrastructure development before enforcing bans, highlighting that commercial over-extraction, rather than household use, is the primary cause of Jakarta's subsidence issues.

Rupiah Breaches Rp 17,100, BI Pulls All-Nighters to Safeguard Currency Stability

Bank Indonesia has intensified efforts to stabilise the rupiah by monitoring global markets around the clock in response to unpredictable Middle East conflicts, with the currency weakening 1.91% since late February 2026 and 2.39% year-to-date. The rupiah traded at Rp 17,130 per US dollar midday, down 0.15%, amid broader pressures on emerging markets like South Korea, Thailand, and the Philippines due to rising global risk premiums and capital outflows. BI plans to expand its intervention base in non-deliverable forwards (NDF) markets to prevent speculative spikes from affecting spot rates.

Finance Ministry: Global Pressures on Indonesia's Financial Markets Relatively Moderate

The Indonesian Finance Ministry has assessed that global volatility is exerting only moderate pressure on the domestic financial markets, with the rupiah's depreciation remaining under control at Rp17,121 per US dollar. Despite capital outflows driven by international risk-off sentiment, robust domestic indicators such as a manufacturing PMI of 50.1, a trade surplus of $1.27 billion, controlled inflation at 3.48% year-on-year, and 9.37% annual credit growth underscore the economy's resilience. The government is committed to maintaining market confidence through prudent fiscal management and anticipatory responses to limit the impact of external shocks.

Catholic Youth Criticise Donald Trump, Calling His Assessment of Pope Leo XIV Mistaken

The General Chairman of the Central Board of Catholic Youth, Stefanus Asat Gusma, has rebuked US President Donald Trump's criticism of Pope Leo XIV, describing the Pope as weak on crime and poor in foreign policy as misguided and reflective of differing worldviews rather than objective analysis. Gusma praised the Pope's approach to tackling crime's root causes like social inequality and poverty, and his emphasis on peaceful diplomacy over military might, positioning it as a vital moral strength in the modern world. The organisation expressed full support for the Pope's leadership in promoting humanity, peace, and social justice, viewing Trump's remarks as personal political preferences.

Secretary General of the Ministry of Home Affairs Asks Local Governments to Ensure Availability of Chillies and Shallots

The Secretary General of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Tomsi Tohir, has urged local governments to secure supplies of red chillies, large chillies, and shallots amid rising prices due to shortages in various regions. He emphasised intensifying planting initiatives and coordinating between surplus and deficit areas to mitigate this recurring issue, highlighting the need for regional awareness in controlling inflation. Data from the Ministry of Agriculture indicates production deficits in areas like Papua, Sulawesi, Kalimantan, and Sumatra, prompting calls for optimised control measures during a coordination meeting.

Russian Foreign Ministry: Objectives of BoP Questioned Amid Middle East Crisis

A Russian Foreign Ministry official has expressed growing doubts about the true objectives and practical modalities of the US-initiated Board of Peace (BoP), even among officially joined countries, against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East. Kirill Logvinov highlighted Israel's ongoing military activities in the Gaza Strip, restrictions on humanitarian aid, and violations of access to holy sites in Jerusalem during key religious holidays. He also warned of potential similar risks for Lebanon and rising tensions in southern Syria, including Suwayda and the Golan Heights, underscoring the initiative's faltering relevance in addressing regional conflicts.

Basuki Acts as Foreman, Continuously Overseeing IKN Project Construction

Basuki Hadimuljono, Head of the Nusantara Capital Authority, led a team on a recent inspection of the legislative and judicial districts in Indonesia's new capital, IKN, to ensure construction progresses according to plan and meets established standards. This oversight is part of the government's commitment to delivering a modern, integrated, and sustainable government centre by 2027-2028. The project aims to strengthen effective governance foundations and position Indonesia as a more competitive global player with a forward-looking identity.

Closure of Platforms 6-8 at Bogor Station Postponed, Still Usable by Passengers

The closure of platforms 6 to 8 at Bogor Station has been deferred due to ongoing preparations for passenger access as part of a platform extension and KRL track project. Station Head Mardiono stated that these platforms remain operational until the temporary passenger flow area and access for equipment are completed, with the closure now scheduled for 20 April 2026. This adjustment follows recent modifications to the station's garden area to serve as a new pathway for commuters.