Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 April 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,531 articles

Layered Pressures on Indonesia's Furniture Industry: Rising Production Costs and Flood of Cheap Imports, Exports Offer Hope

Indonesia's furniture and handicraft industry is facing multifaceted challenges in 2026, including surging production and logistics costs due to higher energy prices and an influx of low-cost imports from China that are flooding the domestic market via online platforms. Despite these pressures, industry leaders remain optimistic about moderate growth in exports, particularly to the United States, which accounts for over half of the sector's overseas shipments. This situation underscores the need for strategic support to bolster competitiveness in both local and global markets.

Anwar Usman Feels Relieved to Leave the Constitutional Court

Former Constitutional Court Chief Justice Anwar Usman expressed profound relief upon completing his 15-year tenure at the court, stating he leaves with a clean slate after a State Administrative Court ruling restored his honour amid controversies over a decision on presidential age limits. Anwar, uncle to Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, emphasised that the controversial ruling was intended for all young candidates, not personal gain, and plans to release a book titled "Pandora's Box" detailing his experiences. His departure marks the end of a tumultuous period, allowing him to speak freely without seeking further public office.

Understanding Sultan Ground: Land in DIY Prohibited from Being Sold or Purchased

Sultan Ground refers to land owned by the Sultanate of Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat, a special privilege of the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY), which cannot be sold or transferred. Regulated under Yogyakarta Governor Regulation No. 33 of 2017, it encompasses Keprabon land for royal purposes and non-Keprabon land utilised by communities or institutions with or without formal rights. The Sultanate holds full authority over its management to support cultural development, social interests, and public welfare, with any usage requiring explicit permission.

BGN: Procurement of socks is part of SPPI equipment at Unhan

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has clarified that the procurement of socks, which sparked controversy on social media due to perceived excessive budgeting, is not directly handled by BGN but forms part of the equipment provided during the Bachelor of Indonesian Development Driver (SPPI) education programme at the National Defence University (Unhan). The SPPI programme is funded by BGN's budget but managed through a self-managed type 2 mechanism by Unhan, ensuring all expenditures adhere to legal planning, budgeting, and oversight procedures. Dadan urged the public to verify information from official sources to avoid misinformation that could undermine trust in government programmes, reaffirming BGN's commitment to efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

Dry Season Peak Predicted for August, These Are the Most Affected Regions

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) forecasts the peak of the dry season in August, influenced by a weak to moderate El Niño, with the season arriving earlier and lasting longer than the 30-year climatological average, leading to drier conditions. Regions south of the equator, particularly in eastern Indonesia, Nusa Tenggara, Bali, Java's coasts and highlands, and southern Sumatra, will be most impacted, heightening risks of prolonged drought and land and forest fires in six provinces: Riau, Jambi, South Sumatra, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and South Kalimantan. While some rain may still occur during the dry season, monthly precipitation is expected to remain below 150 mm, and around 50% of Indonesia's zones will enter the dry season earlier, affecting weather during Eid al-Adha.

KRL Electrification Update: Transport Minister Assures Start This Year

Indonesia's Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi has confirmed that the electrification of key commuter rail lines in the Jabodetabek area and Bandung Raya will commence this year, targeting routes such as Cikarang-Cikampek, Bogor-Sukabumi, and Padalarang-Cicalengka to enhance connectivity and efficiency. While upgrades to signalling and power capacity are planned for the Tanah Abang-Rangkasbitung line to support more trains, extensions to Serang and Merak remain deferred. This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to alleviate urban congestion and bolster industrial mobility in eastern Jakarta peripheries.

MK Chief Praises Anwar Usman's 15 Years of Dedication, Remembers the "Handsomest Judge"

The Chief Justice of Indonesia's Constitutional Court (MK), Suhartoyo, commended Anwar Usman for his 15 years of dedicated service as a constitutional judge during his retirement ceremony. Suhartoyo highlighted Anwar's significant contributions to the court, despite public scrutiny, and shared a light-hearted anecdote from fellow judge Adies Kadir calling him the "handsomest judge" and his uncle. The event underscored the normalcy of highs and lows in a judge's career, leaving a lasting impression on colleagues.

Indonesia completes 4,741 village cooperatives, awaits rollout

Indonesia has completed construction on 4,741 village cooperative units under the KDMP initiative, but operations are pending the delivery of supporting equipment and transportation. The government is recruiting 15-18 local workers per cooperative, prioritising social assistance beneficiaries from poor households, with assistance from state-owned firm PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara to ensure stability in the first two years. This programme aims to foster inclusive economic growth by empowering rural communities, with up to 97 percent of profits returned locally, as part of a broader plan to establish 30,000 such facilities by June 2026.

Home Affairs Minister: Special Autonomy Funds and Privilege Funds Must Be Felt by the Community

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, emphasised during a parliamentary meeting that Special Autonomy Funds (Otsus) for Papua and Aceh, as well as Privilege Funds (Danais) for Yogyakarta, must be effectively monitored and benefit local communities. He highlighted the need for improved governance, planning, and administration to optimise fund implementation, citing delays in Papua due to administrative hurdles and praising Yogyakarta's high absorption rate above 95 per cent as a best practice. The government's supervision efforts aim to ensure timely and effective distribution, supporting regional development while reducing central dependency.

Badung DPRD Questions Surge in Religious Holiday Assistance Recipients to 104,000 Households

The Badung Regency DPRD Commission IV has raised concerns over the increase in recipients of pre-religious holiday cash assistance from 98,000 to 104,000 households for 2026, questioning the accuracy of field data validation to ensure the regional budget is used effectively. Local legislator I Wayan Joni Pargawa urged the Social Services Office to clarify regulations, particularly excluding civil servants like PPPK from benefits, while Head I Gde Eka Sudarwitha attributed the rise to population dynamics such as new family cards and migration, with ongoing efforts to validate data using income thresholds and asset indicators. The assistance, aimed at bolstering purchasing power amid 172,000 total households, will see enhanced direct validation in 2027 to prevent data leaks and maintain dynamism in eligibility.

Anwar Usman Insists MK Ruling 90 Is Not for Gibran: This Is for All Young People

Former Constitutional Court (MK) Justice Anwar Usman has reiterated that the controversial MK Ruling No. 90/PUU-XXI/2023, which lowers the age requirement for presidential and vice-presidential candidates to under 40 if they have held elected office, is intended for all young people and not specifically for Gibran Rakabuming Raka. Speaking after his retirement, Anwar expressed relief at leaving the court with a clean slate and addressed ongoing public debates and allegations of interference in the ruling. He highlighted a recent State Administrative Court decision that restored his honour and dignity, though it did not reinstate his position as MK Chief Justice, underscoring the importance of clearing his name amid the persistent controversy.

Prabowo conveys Easter and Cosmonautics Day greetings to the Russian people

President Prabowo Subianto extended Easter and Cosmonautics Day greetings to the Russian people during his meeting with President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, highlighting the global influence of Russian space achievements, including in Indonesia where many name their children after Yuri Gagarin. Putin appreciated the greetings from the leader of the world's largest Muslim-majority nation and emphasised Russia's multi-confessional society, while both leaders agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in economy, energy, space, agriculture, industry, and pharmaceuticals, noting a 12.5% rise in trade last year and Indonesia's BRICS membership as new opportunities. The meeting underscores strengthening Indonesia-Russia ties amid global developments, with Prabowo committing to personally oversee progress in key areas like monetary relations.

Allegations of Verbal Sexual Harassment at UI Law Faculty, University: Investigation Underway

Universitas Indonesia (UI) is investigating allegations of verbal sexual harassment involving several students at its Faculty of Law, with the process handled by the university's Task Force for the Prevention and Handling of Sexual Violence using a victim-centred approach. The student representative body has already revoked the active membership status of the accused students, and if violations are confirmed, UI may impose academic sanctions up to expulsion and coordinate with law enforcement if criminal elements are found. This case underscores UI's commitment to addressing sexual violence seriously, providing comprehensive support to victims while ensuring a professional and independent investigation.

Culture Minister Supports 2026 Vesak Celebration to Strengthen Living Heritage Narrative

Indonesia's Ministry of Culture has pledged support for the 2026 Vesak celebration, set for 31 May at the Borobudur Temple complex in Central Java, highlighting its role in reinforcing cultural and spiritual values. Minister Fadli Zon emphasised the event's alignment with the ministry's vision of treating cultural heritage as a 'living heritage', including efforts to enhance narratives around artefacts, museums, and digital documentation. The celebration, organised by Walubi, will feature unique timings and supporting activities like social services and retrieval of sacred fire and water, aiming for positive spiritual and cultural impacts.

Revisions to Civil Servants Law: DPR's Commission II Seeks to Promote Equitable Distribution of Employees

The Chair of DPR Commission II, Rifqinizamy Karsayuda, is advocating for revisions to the Civil Servants Law (UU ASN) to enhance the central government's flexibility in mutating and placing civil servants, particularly in underdeveloped, remote, and outermost regions (3T areas). This initiative addresses ongoing disparities in ASN distribution, such as shortages of educators in 3T areas contrasted with surpluses elsewhere, which are exacerbated by local governments' control over personnel management. The proposed changes aim to enable national-level redistribution, marking a key legislative priority for the commission to improve public service equity across Indonesia.

Apartment Mortgages Gain Popularity as Consumers Abandon Investment Trend

In the first quarter of 2026, Jakarta's apartment market has seen a notable shift towards end-user purchases financed through Apartment Ownership Credits (KPA), driven by stable Bank Indonesia interest rates and government incentives like 100% government-borne VAT. This trend marks a decline in speculative investments, with developers focusing on middle and upper-middle segments priced at Rp25-34 million per square metre and prioritising ready-stock units, which accounted for 60% of transactions. Supply has dropped sharply by 80% compared to previous years, prompting selective project launches and creative sales stimuli to maintain momentum.

10 Updates on Middle East War: Blockade Heats Up - Oil Prices Go Wild Again

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated as the United States prepares to blockade Iranian ports, asserting control over the Strait of Hormuz and driving global oil prices to surge by up to 8% amid fears of supply disruptions. Iran vows defiance against US pressures, claiming near-agreement in recent talks that faltered due to American shifts, while conflicts in Lebanon intensify with Israeli strikes causing further casualties and incidents involving UN peacekeepers. US allies like the UK, Spain, and Turkey reject involvement in the blockade, emphasising the need for open navigation to maintain economic stability.

Kaesang Says Now is the Time for Unity, Not Political Manoeuvres

Kaesang Pangarep, Chairman of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), has emphasised the importance of constructive criticism in democracy while criticising statements that could stir unrest, in response to open critiques from former Vice President Jusuf Kalla. He called on national leaders to foster a calming narrative that builds public trust amid societal needs for certainty. Kaesang stressed that Indonesia requires unity and collaboration to tackle challenges, rather than political manoeuvres that weaken one another.

Airlangga Reveals Two Main Issues in Indonesia's Response to US Trade Investigation

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Airlangga Hartarto, has outlined two primary concerns in the government's written response to the US trade investigation under Section 301: excess production capacity and allegations of forced labour in supply chains. The response, due by 15 April 2026, argues that Indonesia's trade surplus with the US stems from structural economic differences and high US demand rather than distortive policies, with production being market-driven. Officials, including Trade Minister Budi Santoso, emphasise that affected commodities show surpluses without evidence of structural excess capacity, preparing for further consultations with US authorities.

Benyamin: SMEs Key to Strengthening Grassroots Economy in South Tangerang

The South Tangerang City Government is bolstering the micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) sector through training, digital marketing, and easier access to financing to enhance local economic resilience and create jobs. Mayor Benyamin Davnie emphasised the critical role of MSMEs as the backbone of the regional economy, pledging ongoing support to foster innovation and growth among the tens of thousands of local entrepreneurs. Officials anticipate that these initiatives will elevate MSMEs, driving sustainable economic development and improving community welfare in the area.

Profits Reach Rp29 Trillion in 2025, MIND ID Supports Indonesia's Economic Growth

Indonesia's state-owned mining holding company MIND ID reported a net profit of Rp29 trillion for 2025, surpassing its target by 13%, driven by consistent downstreaming strategies and integrated mine management. The company also achieved revenues of Rp159 trillion and EBITDA of Rp42 trillion, both exceeding targets, positioning it to address global economic volatility while focusing on production growth and sustainability in 2026. Lawmakers from the House of Representatives' Commission XII praised MIND ID's performance as a key pillar in strengthening the national economy through diversified mining products and integrated governance.

Faints After Constitutional Court Retirement Ceremony, Anwar Usman: I Was Short on Sleep Last Night

Former Chief Justice of the Constitutional Court, Anwar Usman, collapsed due to exhaustion and lack of sleep following his retirement ceremony at the MK building in Jakarta. He quickly recovered and expressed hopes for his successor, Liliek Prisbawono Adi, who was sworn in before President Prabowo Subianto, urging him to uphold the court's mandate in handling constitutional disputes, inter-institutional conflicts, political party dissolutions, and election results. The incident underscores the personal toll of public service amid ongoing transitions in Indonesia's judiciary.

Gaspol Today: Who is Behind the Narrative of Chaos in Indonesia?

In a recent episode of the Gaspol Podcast, senior PAN politician Dradjad Wibowo attributes the circulating narrative of potential chaos and instability in Indonesia to groups opposed to the 2024 presidential election outcome, particularly those still unable to move on from their defeat. He dismisses claims that President Prabowo is unapproachable, drawing from his own long-standing interactions with him since 2014, and emphasises that maintaining national stability is paramount, while deeming political manoeuvres like impeachment as procedurally arduous and socially costly. Dradjad's insights highlight ongoing political tensions and the need for unity in the post-election landscape.

2026 Crisis Worsens, Many Factories Predicted to Shut Down

The ongoing 2026 memory chip crisis is intensifying, with skyrocketing prices severely impacting the production and sales of consumer electronics such as smartphones, routers, and laptops, leading to predictions of widespread factory closures and bankruptcies. Phison's CEO warns that surging demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips driven by the AI industry is sidelining conventional chip production, potentially reducing smartphone output by 200-250 million units by year's end. Analysts forecast a 6-8% rise in smartphone costs, resulting in higher prices, fewer choices, and longer product cycles for consumers, with the shortage possibly persisting until 2030 or beyond.

OJK Eases UMKM Participation in 3 Million Houses Programme, Touches on SLIK Data

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) is supporting the national priority programme to build three million houses by easing access for small and medium enterprises (UMKM) through policy enhancements to the Financial Services Information System (SLIK). Key measures include displaying only credits above Rp1 million in SLIK reports, accelerating loan repayment status updates to within three working days, and granting BP Tapera access to SLIK data to speed up housing financing. These steps, alongside forming a task force with relevant stakeholders, aim to overcome financial sector obstacles and boost affordable housing provision for low-income communities.

Tangled Cables to Be Gradually Relocated Underground, Pramono: It Can't Be Done Like Magic

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced plans to accelerate the burial of utility cables underground through the Integrated Utility Network Facilities (SJUT) programme, following an incident where a bus snagged tangled cables, causing an optical pole to collapse in Tamansari, West Jakarta. The regional regulation for SJUT has been signed, with implementation set to begin across the city, though Pramono emphasised that the process will take time and cannot be completed instantly. No casualties were reported in the incident, which disrupted traffic but was resolved by evening.

DPAD DIY promotes reading culture through digital library "Titik Baca"

The Yogyakarta Special Region Library and Archives Service (DPAD DIY) is advancing literacy culture by developing the digital-based "Titik Baca" library initiative, aimed at boosting public reading interest amid technological advancements. Officials and experts highlight its role in providing easy access to curated digital books, videos, and literacy resources via QR codes, with plans to expand to 46 locations in Bantul this year. The programme addresses Indonesia's low literacy rates influenced by unequal book access, economic factors, and digital distractions, while calls are made for national policies like tax exemptions on books to further support education.

Ministry of Social Affairs Distributes Aid Packages to 1,309 Victims of Flores Timur Earthquake

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has begun distributing thousands of aid packages, including ready-to-eat meals, bedding, and tents, to 1,309 victims of the earthquake in Flores Timur, East Nusa Tenggara. In addition to logistical support, the ministry has deployed teams to establish emergency shelters, conduct damage assessments, provide medical care, and offer trauma recovery services, particularly for children. While the situation is gradually stabilising, ongoing efforts are needed for housing repairs and mental health recovery among the affected population.

Kemenkum Riau Islands and DPR Discuss International Private Law Bill in Batam

The Riau Islands Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkum Kepri) collaborated with the DPR RI Special Committee to discuss the International Private Law Bill at the International University of Batam, highlighting Batam's strategic position as Indonesia's frontline gateway with significant cross-border legal interactions. The discussion addressed the need for clear regulations to resolve uncertainties in civil cases involving foreign elements, such as mixed marriages and international investments, amid evolving challenges like technology and AI. This initiative underscores the importance of adaptive legal frameworks to support Batam's high foreign engagement and provide judicial guidelines for handling transnational disputes.

Putin Delighted as Prabowo Greets Him on Easter and Cosmonaut Day

During a bilateral meeting at the Kremlin, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto extended greetings for Easter and Cosmonautics Day to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who responded with evident joy. Prabowo highlighted the historical significance of Yuri Gagarin's space flight, noting that many Indonesians are named after him, fostering a warm and appreciative atmosphere. The exchange underscores the mutual respect and cultural diplomacy between the two nations, with Putin praising the gesture from the leader of the world's largest Muslim-majority country.

West Jakarta improves disability guiding blocks obstructed by wall

The West Jakarta Road and Bridge Infrastructure Sub-Department has repaired disability guiding blocks in the Angke area of Tambora that were blocked by a wall, installing new tiles to reconnect the pathway. The two-metre extension was carried out by a task force to ensure safe navigation for visually impaired users following a viral video highlighting the hazard near Angke Station. This initiative underscores Jakarta's commitment to enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities in public spaces.

Testing the 'Indonesian Paradox' in the Hands of Power

Political and legal observer Pieter C Zulkifli warns that Indonesia's sovereignty and justice are being tested by the very practices of power, urging honest reforms to shape the nation's future. He highlights the irony where higher positions lead to leaders becoming detached from reality, emphasising the need for humble, inclusive leadership rooted in Indonesian wisdom like 'ngayomi' and the bending rice stalk philosophy. Referencing Prabowo Subianto's book 'Paradoks Indonesia', Pieter questions whether current policies address the warned risks of economic inequality, resource leaks, and weak institutions, or if they confirm fears of national decline now that the author holds peak power.

Threat of Layoffs in Indonesia Due to Surge in Plastic Prices, This is the Manpower Minister's Response

The sharp rise in plastic prices, up to 100% since early April 2026, is severely impacting Indonesia's bottled water industry, leading to production cuts, retail price hikes, supply shortages, and looming mass layoffs for thousands of workers, particularly in SMEs. Industry leaders from the Nusantara Bottled Drinking Water Association (Amdatara) are urging government intervention through measures like VAT relaxation on packaging, anti-dumping import duty exemptions for resin, and liquidity support for small businesses. Manpower Minister Yassierli stated that cross-ministerial discussions are underway to formulate a comprehensive policy response, involving ministries of economy, industry, and trade to mitigate the crisis.

Parliament and Government Agree to Revise Witness and Victim Protection Law for Plenary Session

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XIII and the government have reached a first-level agreement on the second amendment to Law No. 13 of 2006 on Witness and Victim Protection (PSDK Law), paving the way for its plenary ratification. Key changes include restoring the status of the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) as a state institution and expanding protections to cover not only witnesses and victims but also perpetrator witnesses, informants, and experts at risk in criminal proceedings. The revisions also introduce state compensation for victims when perpetrators cannot pay, funded through an endowment sourced from various government revenues and managed by the finance ministry, aiming to strengthen victim support mechanisms nationwide.

Corruption Suspect Siman Bahar Dies in China, KPK Prepares SP3

Siman Bahar, the President Director of PT Loco Montrado and a suspect in a corruption case involving metal anode processing cooperation, has died in China, prompting the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) to prepare a Termination of Investigation Letter (SP3). KPK spokesperson Achmad Taufik Husein confirmed the death but noted the need for administrative verification before issuing the document. Despite the case termination against the individual, KPK has designated the suspect's company as a corporate suspect to recover state losses, highlighting ongoing efforts to address financial damages in corruption probes.

18 Issuers to Face Delisting: BEI's Explanation

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has announced plans to delist 18 issuers due to significant negative financial or legal conditions that threaten their business continuity, with no adequate signs of recovery, in line with exchange regulations. This decision follows extensive coaching efforts and applies to companies suspended for at least 24 months, aiming to protect investors through early warnings and reminders. The delisting will take effect on 10 November 2026, affecting seven bankrupt firms and eleven others suspended for over 50 months.

KRL Green Line Briefly Lost Power Due to Electricity Supply Disruption, KCI Responds

A brief power outage struck the KRL Green Line train on the Tanah Abang-Rangkasbitung route on Monday afternoon due to a technical fault in the overhead electricity supply between Parungpanjang and Cilejit stations. KAI Commuter Indonesia (KCI) confirmed the disruption lasted only one minute and had no impact on other commuter lines or train schedules. The incident, captured in a passenger video showing darkened carriages, highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining reliable public transport infrastructure in Indonesia.

LNG Corruption Case: Former Pertamina Director Faces 6.5-Year Prison Sentence

Prosecutors from Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) have demanded a six-year-and-six-month prison sentence for Hari Karyuliarto, former Director of Gas at PT Pertamina from 2012 to 2014, in a corruption case involving the procurement of liquefied natural gas (LNG). Yenni Andayani, former Vice President of Strategic Planning and Business Development at Pertamina's Gas Directorate from 2012 to 2013, faces a five-year-and-six-month sentence, with both also facing fines of Rp200 million or additional jail time. The case, spanning 2011 to 2021, allegedly caused state losses of Rp1.77 trillion through unlawful actions that enriched former Pertamina President Director Karen Agustiawan and the US-based Corpus Christi Liquefaction LLC.

Q1 2026: KAI Airport Transports 3.74 Million Passengers

In the first quarter of 2026, KAI Group's integrated land-air services, including airport trains managed by KAI Bandara, transported 3.74 million passengers, reflecting growing reliance on rail for seamless urban-airport connectivity. Key services such as the Soekarno-Hatta Airport Commuter Line saw a 23.85% increase to 640,510 passengers, while KA BIAS experienced a 31.11% rise to 208,583, underscoring improved predictability and comfort in travel amid rising demand. This expansion highlights the vital role of rail infrastructure in enhancing daily mobility and reducing road dependency across Indonesia.

Prabowo Thanks Putin for Helping Indonesia Join BRICS: We Were Accepted So Quickly

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for Russia's support in facilitating Indonesia's swift entry into the BRICS group, marking a significant boost to Indonesia's global standing. During their meeting in Moscow, Putin welcomed Indonesia's membership, highlighting new opportunities for bilateral cooperation. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties and expanding the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Russia.

Not Iran! Saudi Arabia Furious Over Attack, Summons Ambassador from This Arab Nation

Saudi Arabia has lodged a diplomatic protest with Iraq by summoning its ambassador, condemning an alleged attack originating from Iraqi territory targeting the kingdom and other Gulf states. This action comes amid escalating regional tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran, with Iraq drawn into the fray due to attacks on American interests linked to pro-Iran armed groups. The summons follows a similar US complaint and occurs shortly after those groups announced a temporary halt to operations following a US-Iran ceasefire.

Government Estimates Investment Realisation in the First Quarter of 2026 Will Reach Rp497 Trillion

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Industrialization, Rosan Roeslani, projects that investment realisation for the first quarter of 2026 will hit Rp497 trillion, marking a 7% year-on-year growth, with final data pending until mid-April. This achievement is expected to create around 627,000 jobs, reflecting a 5.5% increase, while the annual target stands at Rp2,041.3 trillion, supported by downstream industries and investments from key nations like Singapore, China, and Japan. Amid global challenges, Indonesia's political stability and investment-friendly policies continue to attract foreign capital, aligning with the National Medium-Term Development Plan for sustained economic growth.

KKP Partners with E-Commerce to Boost Digital Literacy for KNMP Managers

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has collaborated with an e-commerce platform to enhance market access and provide financial literacy to managers of Red White Fishermen's Villages (KNMP) through a national webinar focused on advancing fishery business strategies. Acting Director General Machmud emphasised that this initiative aims to build a robust business ecosystem at the village level, addressing key challenges in business management and digital market access to increase production value and coastal community incomes. The partnership, involving Shopee Indonesia, extends beyond online sessions to include on-site training, underscoring the essential role of digital platforms in expanding national and international markets for small-scale fishery enterprises.

Academics Urge Repositioning of MBG Project to Ensure It Hits the Mark

UI academic Teddy Prasetyono has called on the government to reposition the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to focus on the first 1,000 days of life, starting from pregnancy, to optimally prevent stunting and support cognitive development in children. He emphasised that while nutrition can still be provided up to age nine, early intervention is crucial for long-term educational and life outcomes. This recommendation emerged from an interdisciplinary intellectual forum discussing key national issues, including a temporary halt to MBG to refine its targeting.

Behind MAMI's Acquisition of Schroder, a Strategy to Dominate the Investment Market

PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia (MAMI) has completed its acquisition of PT Schroder Investment Management Indonesia on 31 March 2026, aiming to solidify its position as a leading investment manager in the country. With managed assets reaching Rp124.3 trillion by the end of 2025, representing an 11.9% market share, MAMI also leads in mutual funds with Rp63 trillion under management. The move underscores MAMI's strategy to enhance investment solutions, expand distribution networks, and foster innovation in Indonesia's asset management sector, further highlighted by recent awards including Best Asset Management Company for the 10th time.

Gold Investment Trend Rises, Jual Emas Indonesia Targets 100 Outlets by 2026

Jual Emas Indonesia, a gold trading company, aims to expand to 100 outlets across Indonesia by 2026, capitalising on the growing public interest in gold as a hedge against economic uncertainty. The firm recently opened a new branch in Pasar Lama, Tangerang, and emphasises transparency through open gold testing in front of customers using advanced XRF technology, offering competitive buyback prices and accepting gold in various conditions. This expansion highlights the booming gold investment sector in Indonesia, with the company also preparing to launch gold pawning services pending regulatory approval.

Soaring Plastic Prices: Will the Government Provide Incentives?

Global crude oil prices have surged due to the Middle East conflict, driving up naphtha costs and consequently plastic prices in Indonesia, which in turn increases prices for packaged goods and squeezes consumer spending and local manufacturers' margins. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto stated that no incentives are planned for the plastic industry, advising it to follow market cycles, while Trade Minister Budi Santoso attributed the issue to disrupted imports from the Middle East and noted efforts to source alternatives from countries like India, the US, and Africa, though scaling up will take time. This situation highlights the vulnerability of Indonesia's import-dependent industries to international geopolitical tensions and underscores the need for diversified supply chains to mitigate economic pressures.

Central Java Provincial Government Partners with Udinus Students to Reduce Food Waste in Free Nutritious Meals Programme

The Central Java Provincial Government, in collaboration with the National Nutrition Agency, has partnered with Dian Nuswantoro University (Udinus) students to minimise food waste in the free nutritious meals (MBG) programme through audiovisual campaigns targeting primary school pupils in 23 Semarang schools. This initiative, involving 230 communications and IT students creating age-appropriate content like animations and videos to promote balanced, nutritious eating and discourage waste, stems from evaluations revealing common issues such as dislike for certain foods like vegetables. The collaboration aims to provide evaluation data for improving meal production, supporting President Prabowo's flagship programme while enhancing student environmental awareness and practical experience.

Residents of Perigi in Buleleng Struggle for Years with Damaged Road

Residents of Dusun Perigi in Buleleng, Bali, have endured a dilapidated 3 km dirt road for years, severely hampering their daily activities, especially during rainy seasons, and hindering the transport of agricultural produce. Vice Regent Gede Supriatna inspected the site and pledged that the Buleleng Regency Government will prioritise repairs through technical assessments to enhance connectivity and support the local farming economy. Village head Ketut Citarja expressed hope for swift action on the road and additional irrigation support for the area's substantial agricultural potential.

Boosting National Economy, Pertamina EP Regional Java Strengthens Partner Collaboration

Pertamina Subholding Upstream Regional Java hosted the Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) Forum 2026 in Jakarta to enhance collaboration, integrity, and capabilities among supply chain partners, supporting sustainable upstream oil and gas operations. The event, themed 'Strengthening Collaborative Integrity to Drive Sustainable Energy and National Economic Growth', featured discussions on procurement governance, economic outlooks, and partnerships with entities like SKK Migas and Bank Mandiri, underscoring the strategic role of partners in ensuring operational reliability and economic contributions. Former Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno highlighted the importance of value-added resource management amid global dynamics to benefit Indonesian society broadly.