Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 April 2026

Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,531 articles

Nadiem Trial: BPKP Auditor States Fair Price for Chromebook Laptop is Rp 3.67 Million

In the ongoing corruption trial of former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim, BPKP auditor Dedy Nurmawan Susilo testified that the fair market price for a Chromebook laptop is Rp 3.67 million, including distributor margins and a 15% supplier profit, highlighting potential overpricing in the procurement process. The case involves allegations of state losses from Chromebook and CDM procurements, which were deemed unsuitable for remote areas due to internet limitations, and claims that Nadiem personally benefited Rp 809.5 billion through investments linked to Google via his companies. This scandal underscores issues of procurement irregularities and conflicts of interest in Indonesia's education sector, with the defendants facing charges under anti-corruption laws.

Focus on Unity and Real Solutions, Golkar Chairman Bahlil Urges Cadres to Strengthen Role in Regions

Golkar Party Chairman Bahlil Lahadalia opened the VI Regional Deliberation of the party's North Maluku branch in Ternate, emphasising the importance of unity and delivering tangible benefits to the community. He highlighted that the party must focus on concrete solutions such as job creation and improving welfare, reflecting Golkar's spirit of practical contributions. Alien Mus was re-elected unopposed as the regional chairman, pledging to enhance synergy and strategic steps for positive regional impact.

Video: Indonesia Can Learn from Vietnam to Boost Tuna Export Competitiveness

Rising fuel costs for fishing, surging plastic packaging prices, and freight charges up by 30% are impacting Indonesia's tuna export business, exacerbated by the Iran-US-Iraq conflict, according to Saut P Hutagalung, Chairman of the Indonesian Tuna Association. Currently reliant on markets in ASEAN, China, Japan, the US, and the Middle East, tuna exports face risks from geopolitical tensions, prompting calls for government support in meeting requirements and strengthening supply chains to maintain competitiveness amid production cost spikes. Indonesia could emulate Vietnam's approaches to facilitate the fisheries industry and enhance its seafood export edge, as discussed in a CNBC Indonesia interview.

Britain Will Not Join US Blockade in the Strait of Hormuz

Britain has stated it will not participate in the United States' blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, as announced by President Donald Trump. A government spokesperson emphasised the UK's commitment to freedom of navigation and the importance of keeping the strait open for global trade and domestic living costs. The UK is urgently collaborating with France and other partners to form a coalition aimed at preserving navigational freedom in the vital waterway.

This is the Reason the Government is Training Civil Servants to Become Reserve Components

The Indonesian government has selected 2,019 civil servants (ASN) to undergo training as Reserve Components (Komcad) out of an initial pool of over 2,200 candidates from various ministries and agencies, aiming to foster nationalism and patriotism among public servants. Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin announced plans to train approximately 4,000 ASN in the first semester of 2026, with the programme conducted voluntarily in accordance with the 2019 National Defence and Security System Law. This initiative seeks to build a substantial reserve force divided into quarterly batches, enhancing the nation's self-defence capabilities without any element of coercion.

Beach Restoration at Love Bridge on Tidung Island

The Thousand Islands Regency Government, through its Water Resources Sub-Department, is restoring the northern beach of the Love Bridge in Tidung Island Village to combat abrasion and enhance tourism appeal. The project involves replenishing eroded sand from the sea, installing geobags for protection, and rehabilitating a 200-metre seawall with concrete cubes to serve as a pedestrian path and relaxation area, with over 50% completion achieved. Mangroves will be planted for natural defence against erosion, supporting sustainable coastal ecosystem balance and inviting community involvement in maintenance.

Present in 2 Sub-Districts, This is GRIB's Land Claim in Tanah Abang Based on 1923 Documents

A dispute over land ownership in the Tanah Abang demolition area in Central Jakarta continues, with heirs represented by GRIB Jaya claiming the 34,690 square metre plot belongs to Sulaeman Effendi based on a 1923 Eigendom Verponding document, not to the state or PT Kereta Api Indonesia. The land, located in Kebon Kacang and Kebon Melati sub-districts and bordered by a high bridge, road, railway tracks, river, and residential area, was previously under a private Land Management Right until 2017 before reverting to the heirs. GRIB Jaya urges the Minister of Housing and Settlements and KAI to provide valid ownership documents, denying any involvement of community organisations in controlling state land.

KPK Reveals How Tulungagung Regent 'Outsmarted' Extortion to Escape Legal Consequences

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has disclosed that Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo allegedly used signed statements from regional agency heads to shift responsibility for budget mismanagement, thereby attempting to evade legal accountability in cases of extortion and fund misappropriation. This scheme involved coercing department heads to sign undated letters of absolute responsibility and resignation, which would implicate them in audits by bodies like the Financial Audit Board (BPK). The revelation follows a major sting operation in April 2026, resulting in the arrest of the regent, his brother, and 16 others, highlighting ongoing corruption challenges in local governance.

Ministry of Defence Releases 2,019 Civil Servants for 1.5-Month Komcad Training

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has selected 2,019 civil servants from 48 ministries and agencies to undergo a 1.5-month intensive military training programme as part of the Komcad initiative under the National Reserve Corps. Following health screenings where 2,115 candidates were evaluated, the participants will proceed to competency assessments in physical, psychological, and ideological domains across six TNI educational institutions before commencing the core training on 22 April 2026 at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base. This programme, aimed at equipping civil servants with basic military knowledge and discipline without altering bureaucratic structures, plans to train a total of 4,000 ASN in two waves this year to bolster national reserve capabilities.

BNN Focuses on Strengthening Rehabilitation Approach for Drug Abusers

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) is prioritising enhanced rehabilitation efforts for drug users through closer collaboration with the Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services (Imipas), as discussed in a recent meeting in Jakarta. The initiative aims to shift from punitive measures to rehabilitation, addressing issues like prison overcrowding and improving supervision of foreign nationals. This synergy is expected to bolster national efforts in preventing and combating drug abuse and trafficking, fostering a more integrated and rehabilitative correctional system.

US-Iran Talks Stalemated, Indonesia Confident of Q1 Economic Growth Above 5%

Bank Indonesia remains optimistic about achieving over 5% economic growth in the first quarter of 2026, projecting 5.2%, despite ongoing Middle East tensions following the failed US-Iran agreement mediated by Pakistan. Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti highlighted Indonesia's strong economic fundamentals, including high consumer spending and improving manufacturing indicators, while emphasising the need to maintain pro-real sector policies. She also referenced President Prabowo's focus on enhancing resilience in food, energy, and defence to safeguard the economy amid global uncertainties.

Rinjani Geopark Managers Promote Local Coffee as a Tourist Destination for Hikers

The Rinjani Geopark Management Agency is pushing local coffee production as a key attraction for tourists hiking Mount Rinjani in West Nusa Tenggara, leveraging the widespread arabica and robusta plantations surrounding the volcano. General Manager Qwadru Wicaksono highlighted that the coffee, grown on nutrient-rich volcanic soil, will enhance the visitor experience by offering memorable souvenirs and integrating agricultural development with tourism. The initiative includes identifying local potentials and training communities to create high-value products, with surveys of key sites beginning this year.

Overloaded Optical Cables Cause Electricity Pole to Collapse in West Jakarta's Mangga Besar

An electricity pole in Mangga Besar, West Jakarta, collapsed on Sunday due to the excessive weight of accumulated optical cables, which had weakened the structure, leading to temporary traffic disruptions but no casualties. Officials from the Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) responded promptly, highlighting the long-standing issue of tangled utility cables on the city's poles that has persisted despite repeated warnings from the regional parliament and provincial government. This incident underscores the urgency of implementing the recently approved regional regulation on utility networks, aimed at resolving the chronic problem through technical guidelines.

Intensify Construction of People's School, Dody Requests Additional Workers

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has urged the addition of workers to accelerate the construction of Phase II of the People's School in Sampang Regency, East Java, where physical progress stands at 36.05 percent as of 10 April 2026, with a completion target of 20 June 2026. The project, managed by the East Java Strategic Infrastructure Implementation Unit and contractor WASKITA–CAG KSO, aims to create an integrated educational complex for up to 1,000 students from primary to high school levels, including classrooms, dormitories, teacher housing, a mosque, canteen, multipurpose building, and sports facilities. This initiative by the Ministry of Public Works seeks to enhance access to quality education and support human resource development in the region.

Economist outlines sectors to drive Indonesia's economy beyond 5 percent

University of Airlangga professor Rahma Gafmi highlights key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, household consumption, green energy, and digital technology to propel Indonesia's economic growth above 5 percent by 2026 amid global geopolitical uncertainties. She emphasises the need for government action in resource downstreaming, food security enhancements, infrastructure development, and attracting foreign direct investment to boost productivity and job creation. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto reinforces this optimism with strong domestic fundamentals, positive fiscal performance, and strategic policies like the B50 biodiesel programme, which could save up to Rp48 trillion.

Iran Will Not Submit to Trump's Threats of Strait of Hormuz Blockade!

Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has vowed that the country will not yield to US President Donald Trump's order for a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following failed peace talks in Pakistan. Iran's navy chief dismissed the threat as 'ridiculous', while the IRGC warned of forceful responses to any military incursions, asserting control over the vital shipping route. The standoff escalates tensions over Iran's nuclear ambitions and could disrupt global oil and gas shipments through the strategically crucial strait.

Askrindo Syariah Records Profit of Rp163.18 Billion in 2025

PT Jaminan Pembiayaan Askrindo Syariah achieved a net profit after tax of Rp163.18 billion in 2025, marking a 19.29% year-on-year increase from Rp136.80 billion in 2024, driven by sound business strategies and prudent underwriting. The company's assets grew by 9.80% to Rp3.28 trillion, equity rose 17.26% to Rp1.17 trillion, and it extended guarantees worth Rp47.21 trillion to 29.2 million UMKM debtors, including 4.63 million new ones. This performance strengthens its financial fundamentals and underscores its role as a key player in Indonesia's sharia-based financial guarantee sector within the state-owned IFG holding.

Health Ministry strengthens education to protect public from El Niño Godzilla impacts

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is intensifying public education efforts to mitigate the health risks posed by the severe 'Godzilla' El Niño phenomenon, which is causing prolonged dry seasons, increased air pollution, and outbreaks of vector-borne and water-related diseases such as dengue, malaria, and cholera. Recommendations include monitoring air quality, reducing outdoor activities during high pollution periods, using air purifiers and masks, and maintaining clean and healthy living practices to bolster immunity. Meanwhile, other government bodies like BRIN, the National Food Agency, and the Ministry of Public Works are coordinating mitigation strategies, including regional drought and flood preparations, strengthening food reserves, and deploying water pumps for agriculture, highlighting a comprehensive governmental response to ensure public health and food security.

Operation to Catch Sailfin Catfish in Jakarta: Is It Safe to Consume?

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has launched an operation to capture invasive sailfin catfish from rivers and large drains in the capital, as stated by Governor Pramono Anung, to protect the local ecosystem. While these fish are being considered as a cheap protein source, scientific studies warn that those from polluted waters may accumulate harmful heavy metals like arsenic, mercury, lead, and cadmium beyond safe food limits. Experts recommend opting for healthier alternatives like mackerel from the sea for long-term consumption rather than risking the limited nutritional value and high contamination risks of sailfin catfish.

Energy Sector Boosts IHSG Up 6.14%, Eye Big Cap Stocks and Sea Transport

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) rebounded strongly by 6.14% during the trading week of 6-10 April 2026, driven by easing global geopolitical tensions following a temporary ceasefire between the US and Iran and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Despite cautious foreign investors leading to a net sell-off of Rp 3.3 trillion, domestic funds and rotations into large-cap stocks supported the surge, particularly in energy and sea transport sectors. Looking ahead to 13-17 April 2026, analysts warn of renewed uncertainties if no agreement is reached, potentially sustaining high energy prices and prompting a risk-off shift in global markets.

List of 4 Stocks Entering Cum Date This Week, Dividend Hunting Momentum

This week in April 2026, several Indonesian stocks, including ADMF, CNMA, and BNLI, enter their cum date, offering investors a critical window to secure dividend entitlements amid fluctuating markets. ADMF distributes Rp 772.37 billion in cash dividends at a 7.0% yield, CNMA provides a total of Rp 12 per share for Rp 979.76 billion with a 6.3% yield, while BNLI pays Rp 1.26 trillion at Rp 35 per share, balancing profit sharing with capital strengthening. This dividend season presents opportunities for short-term gains and passive income, highlighting key financial strategies in the local stock market.

Appearance of the Office of the Winner of the National Nutrition Agency's Electric Motorcycle Tender in West Jakarta, Once Guarded by Police

The office of PT Yasa Artha Trimanunggal, reported as the winner of the National Nutrition Agency's electric motorcycle tender, appeared quiet and nondescript in West Jakarta on Monday, with no visible company signage and occasional visitors entering the premises. Local residents noted police presence at the site on Friday due to anticipated protests over the tender, though no demonstration materialised, leading to the officers' dispersal. This incident highlights potential controversies surrounding public procurement processes involving state agencies.

JK's Side Responds to Report of Alleged Religious Blasphemy, Claims Narrative is Distorted

Jusuf Kalla's (JK) spokesperson has responded to a police report filed by the Indonesian Christian Youth Movement (GAMKI) accusing JK of religious blasphemy over a viral lecture on 'dying as a martyr'. Husain Abdullah clarified that the lecture, delivered at UGM on 5 March 2026, was intended as a lesson in reconciling conflicting parties during past religious conflicts in Poso and Ambon, describing how both Muslim and Christian groups misused religious narratives to justify violence. He emphasised that JK's statements were not personal opinions but sociological observations aimed at correcting misconceptions, and no religion teaches killing for paradise.

PPRO Develops Residential Project Facilities to Drive Sustainable Business Performance

PT PP Properti Tbk (PPRO) is enhancing its residential developments by introducing modern lifestyle facilities, exemplified by the Sava Padel sports facility in the Grand Dharmahusada Lagoon (GDL) project in Surabaya, which is 75% complete and slated for operation in Q2 2026. This initiative aims to create vibrant communities that promote active and healthy urban lifestyles, thereby boosting long-term investment potential and sustainable business performance. The strategically located GDL, near major universities, positions it as an integrated living space for young professionals and students, enriching social interactions and quality of life.

Video: Ministry of Agriculture: Rising Demand, MBG Makes Farmers Happy to Plant Vegetables

President Prabowo Subianto's flagship Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) programme is boosting economic activity by increasing demand for key food commodities, particularly horticultural vegetables, leading to higher incomes and improved welfare for farmers across Indonesia. Vegetables such as pakcoy, spinach, carrots, potatoes, chillies, and onions are seeing significant and widespread demand surges, prompting the Ministry of Agriculture to develop production clusters and implement farmer management and planting patterns to ensure a steady supply. This initiative highlights the programme's potential to stabilise the agricultural sector and support national food security.

208 Hajj Candidates from Depok City Yet to Pay 2026 Hajj Fees

In Depok City, 208 prospective Hajj pilgrims have not yet paid the 2026 Hajj travel fee (Bipih) of Rp 54,193,806.58, out of a total quota of 2,631, with 2,423 having settled their payments, allowing Depok to secure six embarkation groups for departure starting 22 April. Officials note that unpaid fees due to economic, health, or other factors do not forfeit pilgrims' quotas if not cancelled, enabling deferred participation in future years, highlighting the government's flexible policies on religious travel amid potential disruptions.

US-Iran Negotiations Fail, Gold Price Poised to Break Rp 3 Million per Gram

The failure of intensive US-Iran negotiations to resolve the Middle East conflict has heightened geopolitical tensions, potentially driving gold prices to exceed Rp 3 million per gram. Analyst Ibrahim Assuaibi forecasts gold could reach $5,138 per troy ounce globally, translating to Rp 3.1 million per gram for precious metals, influenced by global dynamics and US interest rates. While corrections to lower levels remain possible, escalating tensions may prompt the Federal Reserve to cut rates, bolstering gold as a safe-haven asset.

Interior Minister Reveals Poverty Rates Across All Papua Regions Above National Average

Indonesia's Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has stated that poverty levels in all regions of Papua exceed the national average of 8.25 per cent, highlighting ongoing challenges in the province. While areas such as Papua Pegunungan, Papua Barat, and Papua Barat Daya show declining trends, Papua Tengah remains stagnant at 29.45 per cent, and Papua Selatan has seen an increase from 2024 to 2025. The minister emphasised the need for serious government attention to address stagnation and rises in poverty rates to improve living standards in these regions.

BI Affirms That Keeping Fuel Prices Unchanged Can Help Stabilise the Rupiah

Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti has stated that the government's decision to maintain subsidised fuel prices, such as Pertalite, amid global oil volatility due to Middle East conflicts, could positively impact the rupiah's strength. She noted that the rupiah's depreciation of 1.91% year-to-date is not unique to Indonesia but aligns with broader currency pressures from a strengthening US dollar index (DXY). This policy helps mitigate domestic pressures on the exchange rate, which opened at Rp17,100 per US dollar on Monday, reflecting a slight weakening.

Nusantara legislative and judicial complexes to finish by 2028: OIKN

The construction of legislative and judicial complexes in Indonesia's new capital Nusantara is progressing in line with President Prabowo Subianto's directives and is expected to be completed by 2028. The legislative area will feature four main structures including the Plenary Building for up to 1,579 people, while the judicial complex comprises the Supreme Court and Constitutional Court buildings along with supporting facilities and an 8-kilometer internal road network. Despite budget efficiency measures, the project remains a priority, with ongoing water infrastructure developments to support the government core area.

Bank Indonesia on Alert Round the Clock to Shield Rupiah from Dollar Onslaught

Bank Indonesia is intensifying its monetary policy measures to stabilise the rupiah amid ongoing pressure from a strengthening US dollar, with interventions ready 24 hours a day across global markets. Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti stated that the central bank is optimising tools like spot, NDF, and DNDF transactions, expanding participant bases, while maintaining liquidity. The rupiah opened weaker at Rp17,100 per dollar on Monday, influenced by global dollar strength and geopolitical uncertainties between Washington and Tehran.

Wuhan launches direct passenger flight route to Jakarta

Wuhan has inaugurated a new direct air route to Jakarta, marking the first such connection between the two cities and enhancing links between central China and Southeast Asia. The inaugural flight, operated by Xiamen Airlines using a Boeing 737-800 MAX, departed from Wuhan Tianhe International Airport carrying over 150 passengers and is scheduled four times weekly. This development addresses a previous gap in direct passenger capacity between Wuhan and key Indonesian cities, thereby expanding regional aviation networks and supporting increased travel and economic ties.

Chairman of DPR Commission XIII Requests Discussion of BPIP Bill in His Commission

Willy, the Chairman of DPR Commission XIII, has urged that the Draft Law on the Indonesian Presidential Working Unit for the Study and Development of the Pancasila Ideology (RUU BPIP) be discussed within his commission, despite it being initiated by the Legislation Body, as BPIP is a key partner of the commission. He emphasised the importance of this alignment to ensure the bill's objectives are effectively achieved through collaborative discussions between the commission and BPIP. The ongoing meeting in Jakarta highlights efforts to streamline the legislative process for this significant ideological framework.

Following Silver Man, Window Cleaning Services for Cars Now Appear on Denpasar Roads

A new phenomenon of unsolicited car window cleaning services has emerged on Denpasar roads in Bali, adding to existing issues like silver-painted performers, beggars, and buskers at traffic lights. The activity was captured on dashcam footage at the Bali Mandara toll exit on Jalan Raya Pelabuhan Benoa, though no such services were observed during subsequent monitoring. Denpasar City's Satpol PP has responded by intensifying surveillance and patrols in high-risk areas to address these social disturbances.

Civil Servants in Komcad Programme to Receive Shooting Training

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has prepared a curriculum for training 2,019 civil servants from 49 ministries and agencies in the first wave of the Komcad programme, which includes basic military training such as shooting exercises. This 45-day programme aims to enhance national defence readiness while fostering professional, loyal, and patriotic character traits among participants, with an opening ceremony scheduled for 22 April at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base. The initiative underscores the government's efforts to build a resilient civil service aligned with national defence objectives.

Iran Responds to US Blockade of Strait of Hormuz with This Warning

Iran has firmly rejected the United States' intention to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for 20% of global oil traffic, vowing not to yield to threats and warning of severe retaliation if provoked. Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) emphasised full control over the strait, stating that any military incursion would face a 'whirlpool of death' and strict enforcement against violations of the ceasefire. US President Donald Trump's announcement of the blockade has been partially moderated in implementation, allowing passage to non-Iranian ports, highlighting escalating tensions that could disrupt international energy trade.

Indonesian Navy Thwarts Smuggling of Used Clothing in Tarakan

The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) successfully intercepted a smuggling attempt of used clothing, known as ballpress, originating from Malaysia and entering via Juata Laut in Tarakan, North Kalimantan, on 11 April. Personnel from the XIII Naval Regional Command discovered 11 bales of the contraband in a parked pickup truck after receiving intelligence, though the perpetrators fled the scene. The seized items were handed over to the police for further legal proceedings, highlighting TNI AL's commitment to combating cross-border smuggling networks between Malaysia and Indonesia.

Grocery Sellers Start Complaining as Plastic Prices Soar, What About Food Prices?

In Jakarta's Pasar Minggu market, prices for staple groceries like onions, eggs, and rice remain largely stable, but beef, chicken, and bird's eye chillies continue to be expensive, causing distress among vendors. Traders are increasingly vocal about the sharp rise in plastic packaging costs, which has added to their financial burdens and led some to limit plastic usage with customers. This situation highlights the dual pressures on small-scale retailers amid fluctuating commodity prices in Indonesia's food sector.

NEXT by ANTARA Survey: 61.2 Percent of KAI Passengers Prefer Manual Boarding

A NEXT by ANTARA survey on the 2026 Lebaran homecoming rush reveals that while intermodal integration at railway stations is increasingly effective and customer satisfaction with KAI services remains high at 92.1 percent, 61.2 percent of passengers still opt for manual boarding over facial recognition technology, indicating a need for enhanced user comfort and trust in tech adoption. The study, involving 536 respondents primarily from Generation Z across major cities, highlights strong digitalisation in ticket purchases (over 90 percent online) but calls for improvements in app functionality, timeliness of discounts, and cleanliness. Looking ahead, passengers prioritise value-added services like free WiFi (53.2 percent) and better baggage facilities to elevate the travel experience and address evolving expectations.

Bahlil Accompanies Prabowo to Russia to Secure Indonesia's Energy Supply

President Prabowo Subianto is visiting Russia accompanied by Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia to strengthen strategic energy cooperation and ensure long-term national energy security amid global geopolitical tensions. The agenda includes high-level meetings with President Vladimir Putin to discuss stable oil supplies and broader partnerships. This move underscores the Indonesian government's priority on maintaining energy stability and contributing to global peace efforts.

Progress of People's School in Nganjuk Only 15 Percent, Public Works Minister: Don't Mess Around with the President's Priority Programme

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo expressed strong frustration during an inspection of the People's School construction in Nganjuk, East Java, where progress stands at a mere 15 percent, far behind schedule for completion in June 2026. He suspects unhealthy practices and a lack of firmness from his team towards contractors, amid rumours of kickbacks, and emphasised that this presidential priority programme aimed at eradicating extreme poverty must not be treated lightly. Dody urged civil servants to work professionally in supporting the president's policies to ensure timely delivery of such critical infrastructure projects.

Nadiem Shares Health Fluctuations but Ready to Attend Hearing

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim reported his health as fluctuating ahead of a corruption trial hearing involving the alleged procurement of Chromebook laptops, yet affirmed his readiness to proceed. The case accuses Nadiem and three co-defendants of abusing authority to favour Google in Indonesia's technology ecosystem, resulting in personal enrichment of Rp 809 billion linked to investments in Gojek. This development underscores ongoing scrutiny of high-level corruption in public procurement within Indonesia's education sector.

Two Indonesian women face jail for stepping on Quran

Indonesian police have arrested two women in Banten province on blasphemy charges after a video surfaced showing one stepping on a Quran during a dispute at a salon, potentially facing up to five years in prison under the country's controversial law that protects the six official religions. The incident, which involved the salon owner forcing the guest to swear an oath on the holy book, ignited widespread public outrage on social media. Rights groups continue to criticise the blasphemy laws for their misuse against minorities, as evidenced by past high-profile cases like the jailing of former Jakarta governor Ahok and a recent comedian.

Illegal Cigarettes Given Ultimatum: Pay Excise Duty or Face Closure

The Indonesian government, led by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, has vowed to crack down on illegal cigarette circulation by offering producers a choice to enter the official system and pay excise duties or face shutdown. A new layer in the tobacco excise structure is planned for implementation by May 2026 to facilitate this transition, aiming to boost state revenue and create fairer competition for legal businesses, particularly SMEs. This policy, developed with legal considerations and industry impacts in mind, seeks to balance fiscal gains with the sustainability of the labour-intensive sector while addressing revenue leakages from untaxed products.

Beware! US-Iran War Could Bring Global Stagflation Back

The global economy faces the risk of stagflation, similar to the COVID-19 period, due to the US-Israel-Iran conflict disrupting the Strait of Hormuz and driving up commodity prices such as oil, gold, coal, nickel, agriculture products, and plastics. Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti warns that this supply chain disruption will slow global GDP growth while inflating prices, necessitating cautious monetary policies and potentially looser fiscal measures worldwide. This scenario underscores the importance of coordinated policy responses to mitigate economic slowdown amid rising inflation pressures.

Service City at the Test Point

Surabaya is evolving into a service-oriented city, with the trade and services sectors contributing significantly to its regional gross domestic product, reflecting a strategic shift from industrial roots to a service-based economy. The city government is promoting digitalisation to enhance transparency in public services, such as tax monitoring and cashless parking, leading to increased local revenue and fiscal independence. However, challenges remain in overcoming traditional habits, ensuring digital literacy, and building comprehensive infrastructure to sustain this transformation.

Gold Prices Today, 13 April 2026: Antam Products Decline, Global Prices Plummet

Gold prices for PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) products have fallen to Rp 2,818,000 per gram, a drop of Rp 42,000 from the previous day, while the buyback price stands at Rp 2,585,000 per gram. Various sizes of Antam gold bars are priced accordingly, excluding taxes as per government regulations, with buyback transactions subject to income tax deductions. Internationally, spot gold prices declined 1.1% to US$2,693 per ounce amid a strengthening US dollar and rising energy costs that fuel inflation concerns and temper expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts.

OPM Lekagak Telenggen Burns Several Houses in Puncak Papua, Residents Evacuate

Armed members of the OPM Lekagak Telenggen group set fire to several houses in Kampung Muara, Distrik Pogoma, Puncak Regency, Papua, on Monday morning, prompting residents to flee to safer locations to avoid further threats. The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Habema Operational Command responded swiftly, deploying patrol teams to the scene for searches and using drones to monitor armed individuals nearby. TNI has intensified security patrols to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety of the local population in the area.

BGN Allocates Rp 113 Billion to Event Organiser, Expert Reminds of Procurement Mechanisms for Goods and Services

Public policy expert Agus Pambagio has criticised the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) for allocating Rp 113 billion to an event organiser (EO), urging a review of the procurement process amid the government's budget efficiency drive under President Prabowo Subianto. He emphasised the need for transparency and adherence to the National Public Procurement Agency (LKPP) regulations, which outline clear stages for efficient and accountable procurement. While BGN defends the EO involvement as necessary due to its nascent stage and lack of internal resources for large-scale events, Agus calls for an audit to ensure fiscal prudence in this new institution focused on national nutrition strategies.

Behind the Eradication of Plecostomus Fish, There is a Bigger Problem in Jakarta's Rivers

The Jakarta Provincial Government has intensified efforts to control the invasive plecostomus fish in several rivers due to its threat to aquatic ecosystems and potential risks to communities. Governor Pramono Anung supports a massive eradication campaign across all regions with high populations of the species, highlighting its strong resilience and ability to disrupt food chains. This initiative follows previous operations, with 40 fish captured in a recent effort in Central Jakarta, underscoring broader environmental challenges in the city's waterways.