A luxurious building in South Kalimantan, originally constructed as a house for the son of M Arsyad Ariyadi, has gone viral after being repurposed into the region's first SPPG (likely a nutrition centre), which serves over 2,000 beneficiaries of the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme. Local police chief Ipda Rusdi, who attended its inauguration two to three months ago, confirmed the structure meets national nutrition standards and praised its unique, palace-like design compared to other SPPG facilities in the province. This development highlights the innovative implementation of Indonesia's government-backed nutrition initiatives in rural areas, sparking public interest in its opulent appearance.

Police in Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, have arrested a man caught on viral video extorting a bajaj driver, forcing him to pay Rp 100,000 daily to avoid intimidation. The suspect has been taken to the local police station for questioning, while authorities continue to investigate and search for his accomplice. In response to the incident, which highlighted ongoing thuggery in the area, police are coordinating with local government and transportation officials to conduct joint patrols in vulnerable spots to prevent future extortion.

The Indonesian rupiah has hit a record low of Rp17,120 per US dollar, exacerbating financial pressures on companies with significant dollar-denominated debts amid global geopolitical uncertainties and capital outflows. Listed firms such as Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur (ICBP), Indofood Sukses Makmur (INDF), Modernland Realty (MDLN), XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera (EXCL), and Harum Energy (HRUM) face heightened risks, with total foreign liabilities ranging from Rp1.15 trillion to Rp56.66 trillion, potentially increasing operational costs and eroding profitability. While some companies employ hedging strategies, many lack formal policies, underscoring the vulnerability of Indonesian businesses to currency fluctuations.

KH Noer Ali, a legendary Betawi ulama born in Bekasi in 1914 and recognised as a National Hero since 2006, earned the moniker 'Lion of Karawang-Bekasi' for his religious scholarship and contributions to Indonesian independence. From a farming family, he pursued Islamic studies in Jakarta and later in Mecca, where he studied under prominent scholars and engaged actively in Jawi student organisations amid the anti-colonial struggle. His efforts in deepening religious knowledge and supporting the independence movement underscore his enduring legacy in Indonesian history.

The Indonesian rupiah opened weaker at Rp 17,124 per US dollar on Monday, depreciating 0.12% from the previous close, amid pressures from geopolitical tensions and global inflation. Analysts predict the currency will remain above Rp 17,000 in the coming week, influenced by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which disrupts oil supplies and drives up energy costs. This scenario prompts central banks to maintain high interest rates longer, boosting demand for the safe-haven US dollar and exacerbating the rupiah's decline.

Christian youth organisations GAMKI and Pemuda Katolik have filed a police report against former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla at Metro Jaya Police Headquarters, citing his widely circulated sermon statements as causing public unrest and anxiety. The groups, representing around 19 Christian and community organisations, aim to channel the controversy through legal channels to prevent further escalation on social media and urge Kalla to issue a public apology and clarification. They emphasise that Christian and Catholic teachings reject violence, highlighting the need to de-escalate tensions amid online backlash.

Kia, the South Korean automaker, is reportedly set to launch a new double-cab pickup truck featuring body-on-frame construction and hybrid petrol-electric power using Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) technology. This vehicle will offer the driving feel of a conventional petrol car while providing an eco-friendly and efficient experience, with electric motors driving the wheels and a petrol engine acting solely as a generator to recharge the battery. The extended-range model is slated for release in 2029, ahead of a conventional hybrid version in 2030, and is under consideration as Hyundai Australia's first locally sold pickup in collaboration with their US counterparts.

Dozens of schools and village governments in Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, have reportedly fallen victim to a scam orchestrated by a civil servant from the local Transport Department, who promised operational buses as grants from the Ministry of Transportation but demanded upfront payments for logistics that never materialised. Victims, including SMK and SMP Taman Madya Baiturrahman, lost tens of millions of rupiah each, with total losses across Bima and Lombok estimated at Rp 2 billion, prompting reports to police stations including Polres Bima and Polda NTB. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in grant distribution processes and calls for thorough investigations to prevent further fraud.

Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti has outlined three key channels through which the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict could affect the global economy, including Indonesia: financial channels leading to capital flight and a stronger US dollar, rising commodity prices due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, and disruptions to trade and production via global supply chain issues. While direct impacts on Indonesia are moderated by inflows into government securities and stocks, the overall effects include reduced emerging market flows, higher oil prices benefiting some export commodities like coal and CPO, and potential global stagflation with slowing growth and rising inflation. BI emphasises the importance of cautious monetary and fiscal policy responses to mitigate these risks and attract domestic investment.

US President Donald Trump has sharply criticised Pope Leo XIV for condemning the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, describing the Pope's foreign policy stance as poor and weak. Trump expressed particular disdain for the Pope's views on nuclear weapons and Iran's potential acquisition of them, while also rejecting the Pope's criticism of US actions against Venezuela. As the first American Pope, Leo XIV's vocal opposition to Trump's rhetoric and threats towards Iran highlights tensions between religious leadership and geopolitical strategies.

West Kalimantan Deputy Governor Krisantus Kurniawan responded to viral social media complaints about damaged roads in Sepauk, Sintang Regency, by challenging West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi to build infrastructure in his province with its limited Rp6 trillion APBD, pledging to kiss his knee if successful. He emphasised the disparity, noting West Kalimantan's 171,000 square kilometres versus West Java's 43,000, yet with an APBD over five times smaller. Despite fiscal constraints, the provincial and regency governments are actively addressing road repairs, including deploying equipment to the affected viral route.

The ongoing Middle East conflict is pressuring Indonesia's manufacturing sector, including automotive, potentially leading to a downward revision of the 1 million vehicle sales target for 2026, according to PT Sokonindo Automobile's CEO Alexander Barus. While demand for commercial vehicles remained stable in early 2026, customers adopted a wait-and-see approach from March amid the Iran-US-Israel tensions. However, soaring oil prices present an opportunity for automakers to boost sales of electric commercial vehicles.

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has confirmed that the physical progress of the second phase of the Surabaya People's School project, undertaken by Waskita Karya, stands at approximately 45 percent with good quality workmanship. This initiative, part of the government's priority programme to combat extreme poverty through quality education for underprivileged children, includes facilities like classrooms for primary to high school levels, student dormitories, teacher housing, and sports amenities, aiming for completion by 20 June 2026. The project underscores the administration's commitment to enhancing human resources via integrated educational infrastructure in East Java.

Jusuf Kalla's spokesperson, Husain Abdullah, has responded to a police report filed by GAMKI accusing JK of religious blasphemy based on a viral video of his lecture, clarifying that JK's statements were not personal opinions but a recounting of sociological realities during past conflicts in Poso and Ambon to promote reconciliation. Husain explained that JK highlighted how conflicting groups misused religious jargon to justify violence, believing death in battle would lead to paradise, and stressed that no religion endorses such acts, urging a correction of these misconceptions. The report, registered with Polda Metro Jaya, invokes several articles from Indonesia's 2023 law on religious defamation, underscoring ongoing sensitivities around religious discourse in the country.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East between the United States, Israel, and Iran has led to a global strengthening of the US dollar against various currencies, including the Indonesian rupiah, due to heightened risk aversion among investors. Bank Indonesia's Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti explained that this "risk-off" sentiment drives capital flows towards safe-haven assets in advanced economies, boosting the US Dollar Index (DXY) and causing outflows from emerging markets like Indonesia. On Monday, the rupiah opened at Rp17,100 per US dollar, depreciating 0.09%, amid a 0.37% rise in the DXY to 99.010.

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has dispatched 2,019 civil servants from 49 ministries and government agencies to undergo the first wave of Komcad reserve component training, led by Lieutenant General Gabriel Lema at Jakarta's National Monument on 13 April 2026. The 45-day programme, hosted at six military educational institutions, includes basic military training starting 22 April 2026 at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, focusing on physical, psychological, and ideological competencies to bolster national defence readiness. This initiative aims to cultivate disciplined, professional civil servants with strong Indonesian character, ensuring the maintenance of state security through enhanced human resource preparedness.

Japan is set to double its tourist tax from 1,000 yen to 3,000 yen starting 1 July 2026, aiming to manage overtourism while targeting 60 million foreign visitors and 15 trillion yen in tourism spending by 2030. This measure comes amid growing concerns over the impact of record-breaking 40 million foreign tourists in 2025 on local communities, exemplified by the cancellation of the iconic Arakurayama Sengen Sakura Festival in Yamanashi Prefecture due to overcrowding and disruptive behaviour. The policy highlights the tension between boosting tourism revenue and preserving residents' quality of life, with complaints including sanitation issues and safety risks for locals.

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to Rp17,121 per US dollar on Monday morning, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following US President Donald Trump's threat to blockade the Strait of Hormuz after failed negotiations with Iran. Analysts attribute the currency's decline to heightened uncertainty, with Iran responding by imposing tolls on ships transiting the strait, potentially escalating oil prices and prompting interest rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve. The rupiah is expected to fluctuate between Rp17,050 and Rp17,200 per dollar amid these developments.

The Hotel Kampoeng Indonesia, a three-star property developed by Indonesian investors, has officially soft-opened in the Imam Bukhari Memorial Complex in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, marking the first accommodation facility in this burgeoning religious tourism site that attracts up to 65,000 visitors daily. Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has welcomed the initiative, viewing it as a symbol of strengthened bilateral ties between Indonesia and Uzbekistan, while contributing to local economic and tourism development. The project, led by EGI Resources, aims to create sustainable economic benefits for Indonesia through global expansion in hospitality, linking international operations back to the national supply chain and tourism ecosystem.

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has released 2,000 civil servants from 49 ministries and agencies to undergo 1.5 months of training as reserve components at various military facilities in Jakarta. The programme, aimed at instilling nationalism and discipline, is led by the National Reserve Agency to foster a unified spirit of national defence among public servants. A second wave for another 2,000 participants is planned following the initial training, enhancing the overall preparedness and patriotic ethos within the civil service.

Suherlan Maulana, a civil servant from the Ministry of Social Affairs in Sukabumi, has enthusiastically joined the Komponen Cadangan (Komcad) military training programme organised by the Ministry of Defence, driven by curiosity and a desire to enhance personal discipline. He temporarily leaves his duties to undergo selection lasting three to five days, followed by 45 days of intensive training if successful, with full family support. This participation underscores the government's efforts to involve civil servants in national defence reserves, potentially improving their work ethic upon return.

Amid a sharp rise in cyber threats in Indonesia, global cybersecurity firm Kaspersky has reported positive sales growth, including a 3% year-on-year increase in the country, driven by heightened awareness and digital transformation. The company detected 14.9 million web-based attacks and 39.7 million device threats last year, with 20% of Indonesian firms facing supply chain attacks, boosting demand for integrated security solutions like AI-powered Security Operations Centres. This trend positions the cybersecurity sector as one of the fastest-growing areas for technology investment in Indonesia and the Asia-Pacific region.

Dharmawangsa in South Jakarta is emerging as a prime residential area embodying the “quiet luxury” trend, offering understated elegance and a serene environment amid the city's bustle, attracting affluent communities including internationals. The neighbourhood's stable, organic growth and scarcity of land enhance its appeal for premium housing, with new developments like the Savyavasa apartments featuring sustainable facilities such as sports areas, pools, spas, and children's play spaces, certified with Green Mark Gold. This positions Dharmawangsa as a sought-after location for those prioritising quality of life and comfort in Jakarta's dynamic real estate market.

Gerindra Party's Deputy Chairman Habiburokhman endorses Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya's claim of an "observer inflation" phenomenon, where critics spread misleading data to undermine President Prabowo Subianto's administration. He accuses some observers of propagating lies and hatred with the ulterior motive of seizing power through constitutional or unconstitutional means, urging the public to discern constructive criticism from destructive propaganda. Habiburokhman highlights Prabowo's commitment to democracy, noting no punishments for critics in his first 1.5 years in office, while Teddy defends the government's openness to genuine input amid controlled national conditions.

Media Intelligence Online reports that Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is expected to arrive in Paris on 14 April 2026, sparking optimism at Dassault Aviation for finalising a contract to supply 18 new Rafale fighter jets to Indonesia. This potential visit builds on ongoing negotiations, where Indonesia has already committed to purchasing 42 Rafale jets with an option for an additional 18 to bolster its air force capabilities. The trip underscores France's efforts through its Ministry of Defence to secure the deal, amid a scheduled French defence mission to Indonesia this summer.

Transjakarta has introduced a seat booking feature for its premium Royaltrans bus service to enhance commuter comfort and exclusivity in the Jabodetabek area. Passengers can now reserve seats up to seven days in advance via the TJ:Transjakarta app, eliminating queues and ensuring availability for daily travel from satellite areas to the city centre. Initially implemented on three routes, the feature is now expanding to all Royaltrans services, reflecting strong customer interest and improved satisfaction.

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has partnered with central and local governments in Manado, North Sulawesi, to enhance access to affordable housing for low-income residents through programmes like Kredit Pemilikan Perumahan (KPP) and Fasilitas Likuiditas Pembiayaan Perumahan (FLPP). The initiative, attended by 600 participants including UMKM actors and housing developers, aims to empower the local economy by creating jobs and strengthening supply chains in construction and small businesses. BNI's Director of Consumer Banking emphasised the programme's multiplier effect on national development and community welfare, supported by digital tools like the wondr by BNI app for seamless financial management.

Minister of Public Works Dody Hanggodo inspected the progress of Phase II of the People's School project in Surabaya, noting that physical construction has reached approximately 45% completion with good quality, supported by 571 workers. The initiative, a presidential priority aimed at eradicating extreme poverty through quality education for underprivileged children, includes comprehensive facilities such as classrooms, dormitories, and sports areas on a 6.6-hectare site, with completion targeted for 20 June 2026 to enable use from 1 July. Dody emphasised the need for commitment, coordination, and on-site supervision to ensure timely delivery and optimal benefits for the community.

The National Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS), managed by Bank Indonesia, has reported current national retail prices for key food commodities as of Monday at 10:10 WIB, with bird's eye red chilli reaching Rp76,450 per kg and chicken eggs at Rp32,050 per kg. Other notable prices include shallots at Rp46,750 per kg, garlic at Rp39,150 per kg, various grades of rice ranging from Rp14,850 to Rp17,000 per kg, and meats such as fresh chicken at Rp39,550 per kg and beef at up to Rp147,350 per kg. These updates provide essential insights into food price trends, which are critical for monitoring inflation and supporting economic policy decisions in Indonesia.

The Indonesian government is preparing a regulatory framework to accommodate future transportation technologies such as drones and flying cars, building on existing aviation regulations to ensure safe and swift implementation. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity in remote areas and support logistics distribution in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions through advanced air mobility solutions. Collaboration with China's Civil Aviation Administration is underway to accelerate certification of imported technologies, while domestic products from companies like PT DI and PT Inter are also in development.

Indonesia Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (ICDX) has awarded PT Handal Semesta Berjangka (HSB Investasi) the titles of Best OTC Broker and GOFX Broker in its March 2026 Awards of the Month, recognising its excellence in transparency, execution speed, and digital innovation in trading services. This accolade highlights HSB's position as a leading local broker offering secure, rapid, and transparent multi-asset trading experiences, including forex, commodities, energy, global indices, and single stocks via its app. As a BAPPEBTI-licensed firm, HSB continues to innovate with upcoming AI trading features and low-entry options, reinforcing its role in Indonesia's trusted financial ecosystem.

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has released 2,019 civil servants (ASN) to participate in the Komponen Cadangan (Komcad) training programme at six military education institutions, marking the first wave of a plan to prepare 4,000 ASN this year. The candidates will undergo physical, psychological, and ideological assessments from 13 to 17 April, with formal training commencing on 22 April at Lanud Halim Perdanakusuma and lasting approximately one and a half months. This initiative enhances national defence readiness by integrating civilian personnel into reserve components, with a second wave scheduled for mid-year.

A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Nurul, has expressed strong support for PP Tunas, a regulation restricting social media access for children and adolescents, noting that Indonesia is among the most stringent in its implementation amid a global trend adopted by at least 19 countries. The government, led by Communications Minister Meutya Hafid, is enforcing compliance through progressive sanctions and praising platforms like X and Bigo Live for adjusting age limits and moderation. This progressive stance positions Indonesia as a leader in digital child protection, emphasising the need for collaboration among government, parents, and platforms to ensure effective outcomes.

President Prabowo Subianto departed for Moscow on 12 April 2026, seen off by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming and key officials, to hold a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The approximately 12-hour flight via Garuda Indonesia arrives on Monday morning local time, with discussions focusing on strategic issues including strengthening national energy resilience through continued cooperation with Russia. This visit underscores Indonesia's efforts to enhance strategic partnerships amid evolving global dynamics.

The Nusantara Capital Authority (OIKN) has begun clearing 3.24 hectares of land in the Core Government Centre Area (KIPP) of Nusantara for the construction of the IKN Police Resort (Polresta IKN), aimed at enhancing public services and security in the new capital. Head of OIKN, Basuki Hadimuljono, inspected the site and emphasised that the project, which includes a six-storey main building, mosque, ceremonial field, retention pond, and sports facilities, must proceed under unified command to ensure integration and avoid errors. The initial phase is targeted for completion by the end of 2027, supporting the orderly development of police infrastructure in Indonesia's emerging administrative hub.

Civil society groups, student collectives, and an online petition with over 3,000 signatures are urging the Indonesian government to establish an independent Joint Fact-Finding Team (TGPF) to investigate the attempted murder of human rights activist Andrie Yunus, who was attacked with corrosive chemicals by military personnel on 12 March 2026. The attack, which caused severe burns to over 20% of his body, is seen not just as an assault on an individual but as a broader threat to youth activism defending democracy and human rights, with demands for a transparent civilian trial rather than a military one. Government officials, including the State Secretary and Vice President, have acknowledged the calls and proposed involving professional ad hoc judges to ensure fairness, amid concerns over the involvement of TNI intelligence officers.

The Indonesian Constitutional Court (MK) will hold a retirement ceremony for Justice Anwar Usman and welcome two new justices, Liliek Prisbawono Adi and Adies Kadir, on Monday afternoon. Anwar Usman, who served as MK Chief Justice from 2018 to 2023, is retiring after a notable career, while Liliek, a former High Court Justice, and Adies, previously Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, were recently inaugurated by President Prabowo Subianto to replace him and Arief Hidayat respectively. This transition occurs amid ongoing MK proceedings, including examinations of key legislation such as the new Criminal Code and election laws, underscoring the court's pivotal role in Indonesia's legal framework.

The WEPACK 2026 World Expo of Packaging Industry, organised by RX China, will take place from 15 to 17 April 2026 in Shenzhen, presenting a comprehensive platform spanning the entire packaging value chain with eight simultaneous exhibitions. Featuring global participation from over 130 countries, innovative sessions like Indonesia Day, and a focus on sustainability through initiatives such as the "Green & Low-Carbon Dual Engine," the event aims to foster business opportunities, cross-border collaborations, and technological advancements in the sector. The launch of the "2026 Packaging Market Demand Evolution Report," known as the "Red Book," will provide strategic insights on market trends, regulations, and sustainable transformation, serving as a practical guide for industry players navigating global trade challenges.

A police report has been filed against former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla (JK) by the Indonesian Christian Youth Movement (GAMKI) and other Christian organisations, accusing him of religious defamation over remarks made during a lecture at Gadjah Mada University. JK's comments, which suggested that both Muslims and Christians viewed killing or dying in conflicts like those in Poso and Ambon as martyrdom, were criticised for misrepresenting Christian teachings that emphasise love for one's neighbour and enemies. While JK's spokesperson denied any intent to defame religion, claiming the statements were taken out of context to highlight the misuse of religious justifications in violence, the complainants seek a public apology and legal resolution to prevent further social media unrest.

The 13th ASEAN Finance Ministers' and Central Bank Governors' Meeting (AFMGM) highlighted coordinated efforts among ASEAN nations to bolster policy measures and cooperation for maintaining economic stability and growth amid global dynamics. Key agreements include the Finance Sectoral Plan 2026–2030, the Project Revive initiative for improving financial sector governance, and three Priority Economic Deliverables focusing on sustainable capital markets, regional payment connectivity, and enhancing financial health for inclusive growth. These steps aim to strengthen regional financial integration, expand financial access, and build resilience against economic risks through frameworks like the updated ASEAN Banking Integration Framework and the new ASEAN Swap Arrangement.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, accompanied by Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, is visiting Moscow to strengthen energy partnerships with Russia, focusing on ensuring long-term national energy security, particularly oil supplies. The bilateral meeting with President Vladimir Putin will address energy cooperation amid global geopolitical dynamics and energy market shifts. This strategic move underscores Indonesia's commitment to sustainable energy resilience through international collaboration.

ASEAN finance ministers and central bank governors convened for their 13th meeting on 10 April 2026, reaffirming their commitment to policy measures and enhanced cooperation with strategic partners to maintain financial stability and promote sustainable economic growth amid global dynamics. Key agreements include the Finance Sectoral Plan 2026-2030, the Project Revive initiative for improving financial sector governance, and three Priority Economic Deliverables under the Philippines' 2026 chairmanship, focusing on resilient capital markets, regional payment connectivity, and financial health to foster inclusive growth. These efforts also encompass advancements in banking integration, capital account liberalisation, local currency transactions, and sustainable financing to bolster regional resilience and support a low-carbon economic transition.

Bripda Chardes, a police officer in Sorong, Papua, has been nominated for the 2026 Hoegeng Awards for his dedication to managing Panti Asuhan Sinar Kasih, an orphanage established in 1995 that now houses 50 indigenous Papuan children, providing them with education and a decent life. Alongside his wife, Chardes balances his police duties with orphanage responsibilities, funding operations through personal contributions, family businesses, donors, and social services, while the facility recently received a Rp 6 billion grant from the Papua Provincial DPR for a new three-storey building. His efforts, inspired by family tradition, address educational access challenges in rural Papua, with several alumni achieving success as teachers and soldiers, highlighting community-driven social welfare initiatives in the region.

In a sharp escalation of tensions, US President Donald Trump has ordered the US Navy to blockade the Strait of Hormuz following failed high-level talks in Islamabad, prompting Iran's Navy commander to dismiss the threat as "utterly ridiculous and laughable." Iran has already imposed transit restrictions on the strategic waterway, which carries 20% of global oil, allowing passage only for friendly nations while barring US and Israeli-affiliated vessels, with parliament proposing a transit fee in national currency. This standoff risks severe disruptions to international energy supplies and underscores deepening geopolitical rifts in the Middle East.

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries reports a 41% drop in fish export volumes from January to early Eid 2026, reaching USD 983.1 million, due to the Middle East conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. The tuna sector faces significant challenges from soaring fuel prices, which account for 60% of fishing costs, eroding margins for fishermen and exporters, alongside rising plastic packaging expenses and a 30% increase in freight costs amid global uncertainties. Despite strong demand in Asia, these factors are pressuring the Indonesian tuna industry, as discussed by industry leader Saut P Hutagalung.

Jaecoo Indonesia's managing director, Jim Ma, has addressed consumer complaints about the lengthy waiting times for the J5 EV electric vehicle, attributing delays primarily to geographical factors, with deliveries in Jakarta taking under a month but longer to remote areas due to logistics. To mitigate this, the company is expanding its dealer network from over 30 to around 80 by year-end and leveraging production at two local facilities—Handal Indonesia Motor and Inchcape—to accelerate distribution and enhance after-sales services. This strategic push aims to ensure faster and more equitable access to the vehicle, alleviating customer concerns and supporting Jaecoo's growth in Indonesia's burgeoning EV market.

Global oil prices have surged over 7%, with Brent crude reaching US$102.17 per barrel and WTI climbing to US$104.88 per barrel, driven by escalating US-Iran tensions following President Trump's announcement of a naval blockade on ships heading to Iran via the Strait of Hormuz. This development threatens to cut Iranian oil exports by up to 2 million barrels per day, tightening global supply amid solid energy demand, while Saudi Arabia's restored pipeline capacity offers a potential alternative route. The renewed conflict risks broader disruptions to energy trade through this vital chokepoint, sustaining high prices above the US$100 psychological level.

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence anticipates that civil servants participating in the Komcad programme will enhance their character traits, including discipline, empathy, and a strong sense of corps spirit, following a 1.5-month basic military training. Lieutenant General Gabriel Lema emphasised the importance of collaborative problem-solving across ministries and building mental resilience, beyond mere military basics like weapons handling. This initiative, involving 2,019 selected ASN distributed across six training sites, aims to foster national defence readiness and national character among public servants.

President Prabowo Subianto proposed merging Gerindra and NasDem parties during a private meeting with NasDem leader Surya Paloh in Hambalang in February 2026, amid discussions on raising the parliamentary threshold from 4% to 8%. While sources close to Prabowo claim the idea originated from Surya to simplify Indonesia's party system, NasDem officials view the merger as unrealistic and potentially detrimental, preferring to support the government without ministerial positions. The proposal highlights tensions over electoral reforms and party survival ahead of future legislative elections.

US President Donald Trump has claimed that America could devastate Iran's energy infrastructure, including all power plants, within a single day, and would force the country to rebuild its electricity grid from scratch if an attack occurs. He also announced plans for a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz to restrict access for all ships and instructed the US Navy to intercept vessels paying Iran for passage. These statements come as negotiations between the US and Iran concluded without agreement, as confirmed by Vice President JD Vance.