Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 April 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,531 articles

Outrage Over Law Faculty Student Harassment Chat Group, UI Rector Speaks Out

The Rector of Universitas Indonesia (UI), Heri Hermansyah, has responded to allegations of sexual harassment involving law faculty students in a chat group, affirming the university's commitment to combating sexual violence on campus. The incident came to light through viral screenshots of inappropriate conversations, prompting the Law Faculty Dean to condemn such behaviour and initiate a thorough investigation. UI authorities are monitoring the case to ensure procedural handling and to foster a safe, violence-free academic environment.

Indonesia maintains healthy debt ratio amidst global pressure

Indonesia's Finance Ministry is committed to upholding a prudent fiscal deficit below 3 percent and a debt ratio under 60 percent, positioning the country stronger than its peers amid global challenges like rising oil prices and Middle East geopolitical tensions. This stability has supported robust economic growth, controlled inflation, and improvements in welfare indicators such as reduced unemployment and poverty rates. The government views the State Budget as a key shock absorber to shield the public from external pressures, with ongoing monitoring and efficiency measures to bolster fiscal resilience.

Head of BPOM Highlights Need for Indonesia-China Collaboration to Expand HPV Vaccine Access

Indonesia is deepening its collaboration with China to enhance access to human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines and accelerate domestic vaccine development, as emphasised by the Head of the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM), Taruna Ikrar. With nearly 300 million people spread across over 17,000 islands, HPV vaccination is a national priority to combat the high burden of cervical cancer, which remains a pressing issue. The partnership involves technology exchange, business alliances, and academic research, enabling Indonesia to leverage advanced Chinese biotechnology and build a robust health ecosystem for mutual benefit.

Meeting Putin, Prabowo: I Came for Consultation Due to World Geopolitics

President Prabowo Subianto met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss the rapidly changing global geopolitical situation. Prabowo highlighted Russia's significant role in addressing uncertainties and stressed the need for Indonesia and Russia to exchange views and strengthen cooperation, particularly in energy and economic sectors. This bilateral engagement underscores Indonesia's proactive diplomacy amid international challenges.

Putin Praises Prabowo's Easter Greetings from the Leader of the World's Largest Muslim Nation

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed delight at Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's Orthodox Easter greetings during his visit to the Kremlin on 13 April 2026, highlighting Prabowo's leadership of the country with the world's largest Muslim population. Putin emphasised the significance of the visit amid global developments and welcomed enhanced bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic matters. The exchange underscores Russia's multi-confessional society and the strengthening ties between the two nations.

Procurement of Laptops to Socks Under Public Scrutiny, BGN Head: Not as Extensive as Claimed

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) in Indonesia has come under public scrutiny for its procurement of items such as socks, laptops, and eating utensils, which are perceived to be significantly overpriced compared to market rates as part of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme. BGN Head Dadan Hindayana clarified that while these procurements are necessary for operational needs, the quantities are far less than reported in media, with only 5,000 laptop units acquired in 2025 rather than the claimed 32,000, and no Rp4 trillion allocation for eating utensils. This controversy highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and efficiency in government spending on social welfare initiatives.

Oil Prices Surge Again, Trump Confident They Can Fall Despite Escalating Iran Conflict

Global oil prices have surged over 8% to above $103 per barrel amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with Brent crude reaching levels not seen since briefly exceeding $111 last week. US President Donald Trump remains optimistic that energy prices will stabilise or even decrease ahead of midterm elections, despite ordering a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz on 12 April 2026. The blockade targets all ships entering or leaving the strait, exacerbating disruptions and driving up US petrol prices to an average of $4.13 per gallon, a concern that Democrats are leveraging against Republicans.

Social Aid Recipients Directed to Pay Merah Putih Cooperative Dues

Indonesia's Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has announced plans to create legal frameworks allowing recipients of the Family Hope Programme (PKH) to allocate portions of their social aid towards paying membership dues for the Merah Putih Cooperative, with options for instalments to ease the burden. The dues, estimated at Rp50,000 to Rp100,000 as principal savings and Rp5,000 to Rp10,000 monthly as mandatory contributions, are intended to function as savings that will eventually benefit the recipients through cooperative profits. Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono aims to integrate 15-18 million PKH participants into 80,000 village cooperatives, potentially lifting them out of poverty and creating up to 1.4 million job opportunities.

Economist Reveals '3 Strategies' for Government to Keep Deficit Below 3%

Mohammad Faisal, Director of CORE Indonesia, has outlined three key strategies—efficiency, refocusing, and relocation of the budget—to help the government maintain the state budget deficit below 3% of GDP, as mandated by the State Finance Law, despite early-year pressures showing a Rp 240.1 trillion deficit by March. He notes that while the deficit may widen slightly from initial macroeconomic assumptions, options like utilising the remaining budget balance (SAL) of around Rp 420 trillion should be considered only as a last resort due to its limited size compared to previous years. These measures are crucial for ensuring fiscal resilience amid global exchange rate volatility and pre-existing fiscal strains.

Shifting to Renewable Energy, PLN Chief to Eliminate 2,139 Diesel Power Plant Engines

PT PLN's Director General, Darmawan Prasodjo, plans to eliminate 2,139 diesel engines at 741 PLTD sites, replacing them with renewable energy sources such as micro-hydro (PLTMH) or solar power (PLTS) equipped with battery storage to reduce reliance on expensive imported fuels and enhance energy security. This initiative aligns with directives from President Prabowo Subianto to accelerate the conversion of diesel plants to solar amid high oil prices, with the Investment Management Agency (Danantara) tasked to resolve related issues. The move aims to transition from imported, polluting energy to clean, locally sourced alternatives, lowering costs and environmental impact.

Businessman: Rice and Oil Prices Rise Due to Plastic Prices

The Chairman of the Indonesian Food and Beverage Entrepreneurs Association (GAPMMI), Adhi S. Lukman, has warned that surging plastic prices are driving up the cost of packaged food and beverage products, including staples like rice and cooking oil, due to the material's widespread use in packaging and its limited supply. He highlighted price increases ranging from 30% to 100%, which could erode business margins and lead to higher consumer prices, with some suppliers facing stock shortages by May or June. Adhi urged the government to allow imports of plastic raw materials from alternative countries to mitigate the domestic production shortfall, which has dropped significantly, underscoring broader supply chain vulnerabilities in Indonesia's economy.

Global Challenges, Poltracking: Public Trust in Prabowo-Gibran Remains High

A Poltracking Indonesia survey reveals that public approval for President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka stands at 75.1 per cent, despite global geopolitical tensions. Researcher Yoki Alvetro attributes this resilience to Prabowo's strong political support and the government's ability to accommodate nearly all political parties, with minimal opposition. This high trust level underscores the public's enduring confidence in the administration's policy direction amid international uncertainties.

Indonesia maintains healthy debt ratio amidst global pressure

Indonesia is demonstrating economic resilience compared to its peers, maintaining a prudent fiscal deficit below 3 percent and a debt ratio under 60 percent, as stated by the Finance Ministry's director of economic stabilization strategy, Noor Faisal Achmad, at the Central Bank Forum 2026. This stability is evidenced by high economic growth, controlled inflation, and improvements in welfare indicators such as declining unemployment and poverty rates. Amid rising global energy prices, the government is leveraging its strong fiscal position to mitigate external shocks, ensuring the State Budget acts as an economic buffer without burdening the public, while monitoring developments and enhancing revenue efficiency.

BYD and Jaecoo Enter Top 10 National Car Sales in First Quarter of 2026

Chinese brands BYD and Jaecoo have made significant inroads into Indonesia's automotive market, securing sixth and eighth places respectively in national retail sales for the first quarter of 2026, with BYD selling 10,265 units and Jaecoo 7,927 units. This performance highlights the growing influence of Chinese manufacturers, as BYD even outsold Honda in March, while Toyota maintained its dominance with over 64,000 units sold. Overall sales reached 211,905 units, reflecting a competitive landscape where emerging players are challenging established brands.

Prabowo to Directly Oversee Indonesia-Russia Monetary Cooperation

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to personally handle and accelerate certain aspects of Indonesia-Russia cooperation, particularly in monetary relations, during his bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. He expressed satisfaction with the rapid progress on most prior agreements and appreciated Russia's support for Indonesia's BRICS membership and strategic needs. The visit underscores Indonesia's proactive diplomacy to strengthen bilateral ties, especially in energy and other priority sectors, viewing Russia as a key partner for global economic stability and growth.

Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs to Accelerate Handling of Criminal Acts in the Digital Space with Police

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, and the National Police Chief, General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, signed a memorandum of understanding on 13 April 2026 to expedite the handling of digital crimes. The agreement focuses on integrating reporting systems and establishing a special task force dedicated to addressing criminal incidents in the digital realm. This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of law enforcement in Indonesia's rapidly expanding digital environment.

Boni Hargens: President Prabowo Trusts Police Chief Listyo Sigit

Senior political analyst Boni Hargens has highlighted President Prabowo Subianto's firm directive to four key institutions, including the Indonesian National Police (Polri), to combat smuggling and safeguard national revenue amid global geopolitical tensions from Middle East conflicts. This instruction, issued on 10 April 2026, underscores the government's commitment to closing fiscal leakages, particularly in subsidised fuel, which poses heightened risks due to widening price disparities and rising global oil costs. Hargens emphasised the high level of trust President Prabowo places in Police Chief Listyo Sigit Prabowo, granting Polri enhanced legitimacy to decisively tackle organised smuggling networks.

Survey results: Prabowo's electability leads via "top of mind" simulation

A Poltracking Indonesia survey reveals that President Prabowo Subianto maintains a leading electability of 32.9% in a spontaneous "top of mind" simulation, far ahead of rivals like Dedi Mulyadi (13.5%) and Anies Baswedan (9.2%), reflecting strong public perception of his leadership. This dominance aligns with high public satisfaction rates, exceeding 70% for government performance, presidential performance, and trust, with regional variations showing particularly strong approval in West Java at 89.2%. The findings, based on a March 2026 survey of 1,220 respondents, underscore an open yet Prabowo-favoured political landscape ahead of potential future elections.

Surabaya DPRD Proposes Involvement of Merah Putih Cooperatives in Affordable Market Programmes

The Deputy Chairman of Surabaya's DPRD, Bahtiyar Rifai, has urged the strengthening of Merah Putih Cooperatives' role in distributing essential goods at the sub-district level, particularly by involving them in the city's regular affordable market programmes. He highlighted the cooperatives' wide reach across nearly all sub-districts and their potential to enhance access to affordable staples like rice, oil, and meat, while empowering community-based economies. Bahtiyar also called for addressing challenges such as budget limitations and low member participation through government collaboration and support from relevant departments to ensure the cooperatives drive sustainable grassroots economic growth.

Prabowo Urges MBG to Focus on Malnourished Children, Expert: The Right Step

President Prabowo Subianto has directed the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme to prioritise children from underprivileged families suffering from malnutrition, aiming to restore its original intent of aiding those unable to access adequate nutrition due to economic constraints. Public policy expert Lina Miftahul Jannah from the University of Indonesia praised this move as highly appropriate, noting that extending the programme to affluent schools has led to rejections and inefficiencies, confusing service units and reducing portions. The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is preparing teams to target beneficiaries more precisely, ensuring non-coercive distribution and enhancing oversight for optimal impact.

Discussions on Hajj Ticket Wars: Between Hopes and Anxieties of Prospective Pilgrims

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's proposal to implement a 'ticket war' system for Hajj departures has elicited mixed reactions from prospective pilgrims, with some viewing it as a solution to long waiting lists, while others fear it could foster unfair practices and inequality. Erna Mardiana, a pilgrim from Bandung who has been waiting 23 years since registering in 2021, opposes the idea, citing rampant ticket scalping in other sectors and its potential disadvantages for the elderly, tech-illiterate individuals, and long-waiting registrants. This debate underscores ongoing challenges in managing equitable access to Hajj quotas amid high demand.

Putin Discusses Energy, Space, and BRICS During Meeting with Prabowo

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed delight at the regular and meaningful communication with Indonesia during his meeting with President Prabowo Subianto at the Kremlin, highlighting the strategic partnership declared between the two nations. He noted a 12.5% increase in bilateral trade last year, despite a slight slowdown this year, and emphasised key cooperation areas including energy, space, agriculture, industry, pharmaceuticals, and education, while welcoming Indonesia's full membership in BRICS as a new opportunity for collaboration. The discussions also touched on potential ties with the Eurasian Economic Union, underscoring the deepening economic and strategic relations between Russia and Indonesia.

Willy Denies NasDem-Gerindra Merger Rumour: Surya Paloh Proposes Political Bloc

NasDem executive Willy Aditya has firmly denied rumours of a merger between NasDem and Gerindra parties, clarifying that party leader Surya Paloh's proposal refers to a "political bloc" rather than a corporate-style merger. He criticised those spreading the merger narrative for lacking political literacy and explained that a political bloc involves collective policy engineering without transactional politics, aiming to foster non-minimalist inter-party cooperation while preserving independence. This comes amid a recent meeting between Surya Paloh and President Prabowo Subianto, which Willy described as a natural discussion between friends, urging a more positive republican imagination in political discourse.

DPR's MKD Summons PKS Politician Aboe Bakar Over Allegations of Ulama Involvement in Madura Drug Trade

The DPR's Honour Court (MKD) has summoned PKS politician Habib Aboe Bakar Alhabsyi following his controversial statements alleging the involvement of ulama and pesantren in Madura in narcotics networks. The summons addresses public outcry over his remarks made during a hearing on the Narcotics and Psychotropics Bill, where he expressed shock at the potential exploitation of religious positions for drug profits. This development underscores ongoing efforts to regulate and combat drug trafficking in Indonesia, highlighting tensions between political discourse and religious sensitivities.

Head of National Nutrition Agency Denies Budget for Laptops and Utensils Reaches Rp 4 Trillion, Here is the Clarification

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has refuted claims that the procurement budget for laptops and eating utensils reached Rp 4 trillion, stating that the figures circulating online are inaccurate. He clarified that only around 5,000 laptops were procured in 2025, far less than the alleged 32,000 units, and eating utensils were acquired for just 315 state-funded Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) at a budget of approximately Rp 215 billion. This response highlights the agency's commitment to efficient and needs-based spending under government regulations, countering public scrutiny over potential waste in national health initiatives.

Putin Welcomes Prabowo: A Noble Visit of Great and Important Significance

Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Moscow, describing the visit as highly significant amid the current global geopolitical tensions. Putin expressed gratitude for Prabowo's acceptance of the invitation and highlighted the strong cooperation between the foreign ministries of both nations in international forums. He emphasised the importance of enhancing bilateral ties, particularly in the economic sector, as a key aspect of the visit.

Interior Minister Tito on the Proliferation of Regional Head Arrests: Who Elected Them?

Interior Minister Tito Karnavian has questioned the effectiveness of direct regional elections in Indonesia, pointing to the recent surge in Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) arrests of local leaders as evidence that the system does not always produce quality leaders. He highlighted systemic issues, including high political costs and potential flaws in the recruitment mechanism, while acknowledging both positives and negatives of direct elections. This comes amid ongoing KPK operations, such as the latest arrest of Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo for extortion and other graft cases.

Processing 200 Tonnes of Waste, Two Machines at TPST Tahura I Operate 20 Hours a Day

In Denpasar, two waste processing machines at the Integrated Waste Processing Site (TPST) Tahura I are operating for 20 hours daily to handle 200 tonnes of rubbish, with plans to expand capacity to 300 tonnes there and add 200 tonnes at TPST Tahura II. Officials from the Denpasar City Council and Environmental Agency emphasise the urgency of optimising current operations and adjusting vendor targets to meet demands, while preparing 50 workers in three shifts to support the process. This initiative highlights the city's commitment to improving waste management infrastructure amid growing urban waste challenges.

Indonesia can strengthen new energy sovereignty amid global crisis

Indonesia is strategically positioned to enhance its energy transformation by developing a national battery ecosystem through nickel downstreaming, amid global oil price pressures and supply uncertainties. This shift from fossil fuel dependency to battery sovereignty aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's priorities, including energy independence and industrial downstreaming, bolstering Indonesia's role in the global electric vehicle supply chain. Companies like PT QMB New Energy Materials are contributing by producing key battery materials, supporting an end-to-end integrated industry that promotes economic value addition and clean energy transition.

Chinese Smartphones Losing Ground, Two Lesser-Known Brands Selling Briskly

The global smartphone market declined by 6% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2026, driven by DRAM and NAND shortages, rising logistics costs, and weakened consumer purchasing power amid Middle East geopolitical tensions. Apple led the market with a 21% share and 5% growth, boosted by strong iPhone 17 demand and its ecosystem, while Samsung slipped to second place with a 20% share and 6% decline; Chinese brands like Xiaomi faced steeper drops of 19%, but emerging players Google and Nothing achieved double-digit growth of 14% and 25% respectively. Counterpoint Research forecasts ongoing market pressures through 2027, with manufacturers shifting focus to premium devices, software, and services to sustain growth.

Bali Police Renew Commitment to Enhance Tourist Safety

Bali Police have reaffirmed their dedication to tourist safety following travel warnings issued by the South Korean Embassy due to rising crimes against foreigners in popular areas like Jimbaran, Seminyak, and Canggu. In a meeting with embassy representatives, the police clarified that the advisory was a routine reminder, highlighted existing measures such as intensified patrols and enhanced coordination, and reported a 23% decrease in crimes involving foreign nationals from January to April 2026 compared to the previous year. This response underscores the importance of the South Korean tourist market to Bali's economy and aims to maintain the island's reputation as a secure global destination.

FORMAS Views Investment as Driver of National Economic Growth

Soegiharto Santoso, advisor to the Forum Masyarakat Indonesia Emas (FORMAS), has stated that incoming investments will directly boost Indonesia's national economic growth by enhancing economic indices and bolstering market confidence. During a business and investment forum in Jakarta, he highlighted the enthusiasm of local entrepreneurs, particularly in the information technology sector, to collaborate with foreign investors, and stressed the need for ongoing dialogues with the government to ensure regulatory certainty and security. The event, which invited Chinese business delegates, aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes in technology, digital, and health sectors, underscoring its role in fostering strategic partnerships.

Megawati receives Qatari ambassador and exchanges cultural gifts

Former Indonesian President Megawati Soekarnoputri hosted the Qatari Ambassador, Ali bin Hassan Al Dosari, for a two-hour discussion at her residence, accompanied by senior PDI-P party figures including her son M. Prananda Prabowo. The meeting concluded with an exchange of cultural gifts, with Megawati presenting miniatures of Borobudur Temple and a pinisi boat, while the ambassador offered a bouquet and a book on Qatar's heritage. The ambassador praised Megawati and her father Soekarno's recognition in the Middle East, highlighted shared views on gender equality, and noted the Qatari royal family's interest in Indonesian history, underscoring strengthening diplomatic and cultural ties between Indonesia and Qatar.

Government Awaits Response from TikTok, Google Until Tomorrow to Comply with Tunas Regulation

The Indonesian government is awaiting full compliance from digital platforms TikTok, Roblox, and Google with the Tunas Regulation (PP Tunas) by tomorrow, Tuesday 14 April, as stated by Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid. While Meta, X, and Bigo Live have fully adhered to the rules aimed at safeguarding children's digital safety and national sovereignty, the non-compliant platforms face potential sanctions including warnings, temporary access suspension, or termination. This enforcement underscores Indonesia's commitment to regulating digital spaces for child protection, with Google already receiving a formal warning for its YouTube platform.

PBNU Regrets Failure of US-Iran Peace Negotiations

The General Chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU), Yahya Cholil Staquf (Gus Yahya), has expressed regret over the collapse of peace talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, Pakistan, and called on all religious communities and national elements to unite in promoting peace for humanity's safety. Echoing Pope Leo XIV's appeals, he urged the continuation of negotiations with Pakistan's mediation and international efforts to halt violence, support civilian victims, and address the economic fallout from the conflict. Gus Yahya emphasised that the impacts of war affect everyone, necessitating immediate cessation of hostilities and containment of the conflict to facilitate resolution, while also initiating interfaith collaborations to bolster social resilience against global upheavals.

Landfill Closures in Bali Lead to More Trash Burning Impacting Tourist Vacations

Bali is facing a mounting waste management crisis following the closure of major landfills, including the Suwung TPA, which stopped accepting organic waste on 1 April 2026, leading to increased illegal dumping and open burning that produces toxic smoke affecting residents and tourists. Recycling facilities and alternative sites are overwhelmed, with officials considering temporary use of former quarries until Waste to Energy plants are operational, highlighting the urgent need for improved waste disposal systems amid strict regulations on organic waste. This situation raises concerns over Bali's ability to sustain its tourism industry while addressing long-standing environmental challenges.

Witness and Victim Protection Bill Brought to Plenary, DPR: LPSK Officially Becomes a State Institution

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) Commission XIII has approved the Witness and Victim Protection Bill (RUU PSDK), a key provision of which elevates the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to the status of a state institution, aligning it with other law enforcement bodies to enhance victim and witness recovery. This legislative move, endorsed by the government under President Prabowo Subianto, emphasises restorative justice alongside corrective measures, mirroring principles in the new Criminal Code and Criminal Procedure Code. The bill is set to proceed to the DPR plenary session for final approval in the upcoming meeting.

Indonesia optimistic about achieving Rp497 T investment in Q1 2026

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Roeslani, expressed optimism about realising Rp497 trillion in investments during the first quarter of 2026, surpassing last year's figures by 5.5 percent and expected to generate 627,000 jobs. This aligns with the national target of Rp2,041.3 trillion for 2026 to drive eight percent economic growth as per the 2025–2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan, with significant contributions from downstreaming and key sectors like base metals, transportation, and mining. Top investor nations include Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, and the US, while Jakarta and West Java lead in regional investments, bolstered by Indonesia's open foreign policy amid global tensions.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Encourages Students to Cycle to School to Save Energy

Indonesia's Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, has urged students to cycle to school as part of promoting a healthy lifestyle and energy conservation, aligning with the President's directives for ASRI (safe, healthy, clean, and beautiful) schools. During the inauguration of SMA Saintek Ahmad Dahlan in Salatiga and the revitalisation of 17 educational units, he launched a cycling initiative and distributed bicycles in Semarang, encouraging parents to let older children travel independently to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. The school principal has committed to implementing the programme, including forgoing air conditioning to enhance environmental friendliness.

MRT prepares traffic engineering during construction of space at HI Station

PT MRT Jakarta is set to implement traffic management measures on Jalan M.H. Thamrin to accommodate the revitalisation of the area around Bundaran HI Station into a multifunctional space and new entrances, starting from 10 April to 30 May. The project, aimed at enhancing underground circulation and interconnectivity with commercial areas, includes three new entrances equipped with stairs, escalators, and an elevator, alongside a cooling and ventilation tower, with completion targeted for mid-2027. This development supports transit-oriented principles at the busy station, which handles 450,000 to 500,000 passengers monthly, in preparation for the operational expansion of MRT Phase 2A segments.

Dewi Priyanti, the PNM Kartini Bringing Real Change to Her Community

Dewi Priyanti, a woman from Solo who migrated to Jakarta, transformed her life by starting a small food stall and expanding it through financing from PNM's Mekaar programme, growing her loan from IDR 2 million to IDR 10 million. As chair of the Kembang Waste Bank Unit, she exemplifies women's roles in social change and environmental efforts, embodying the spirit of Kartini on her namesake day. PNM's Secretary, Dodot Patria Ary, highlighted the company's focus on empowering women for economic independence, fostering confidence and broader societal impact through consistent small steps.

Agriculture Minister affirms that consumption sugar self-sufficiency target remains on track for 2027

Indonesian Agriculture Minister and National Food Agency Head Andi Amran Sulaiman has reaffirmed the government's commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in white sugar by 2027, despite ongoing challenges in production and distribution. He emphasised protecting local sugarcane farmers by preventing the leakage of refined sugar into the consumer market, which undermines prices and harms producers. The government is coordinating with law enforcement to strictly penalise such violations, with recent actions taken in regions like Central Java and South Kalimantan.

Freeport to Gradually Resume Production, Targeting Recovery by 2027

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) has confirmed the gradual resumption of mining operations following a landslide incident at the Grasberg mine in 2025, with a target to restore full production capacity by 2027. The company anticipates increasing ore extraction from 139,000 tonnes per day in 2025 to 200,000 tonnes per day in 2027, alongside projected metal outputs of 1.1 billion pounds of copper and 800,000 ounces of gold in 2026, all of which will be absorbed by PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam). This recovery strategy is expected to bolster state revenues, rising from US$2.9 billion in 2026 to potentially US$6 billion annually from 2028, underscoring Freeport's vital role in Indonesia's mining sector and national economy.

After Retirement from Constitutional Court Judge, Anwar Usman Affirms Readiness to Take on New Duties

Anwar Usman, recently retired from his 15-year tenure as a judge at Indonesia's Constitutional Court, has expressed his willingness to embrace new responsibilities, viewing them as trusts that benefit society. He emphasised that his service is driven by a commitment to worship and aiding others, rather than seeking popularity. While declining to detail specific post-retirement offers, his statements underscore a dedication to public service in line with Islamic principles.

Election Victory: Peter Magyar Pushes for New Hungarian Government

Peter Magyar, leader of Hungary's Tisza Party, has called on President Tamas Sulyok to task him with forming a new government following his party's decisive win in the parliamentary elections, securing 137 out of 199 seats for a constitutional majority. Magyar also urged the resignation of key state officials, including the Chief Justice, Attorney General, and Constitutional Court President, marking a significant challenge to Viktor Orban's long-standing Fidesz dominance. This shift ends Orban's 16-year uninterrupted tenure as Prime Minister, potentially ushering in a new era of political change in Hungary.

Defendant in Obstruction of Investigation in 3 Corruption Cases Submits Counter-Memorandum of Cassation

M Adhiya Muzzaki, a defendant in a case of alleged obstruction of investigation related to three major corruption scandals, has submitted a counter-memorandum of cassation challenging the prosecutors' appeal against his acquittal. His lawyer argues that the new Criminal Procedure Code prohibits cassation appeals on acquittal verdicts and cites a Constitutional Court ruling invalidating the phrase "indirectly" in the anti-corruption law, deeming the prosecutors' case legally weak. The case involves efforts to shape negative public opinion outside court on corruption probes into tin commodity management, sugar imports at the Ministry of Trade, and CPO export permits, highlighting tensions between free expression and legal accountability in Indonesia.

Pasar Minggu Police Chief Apologises Over Allegations of Ignoring Missing Elderly Woman

The head of Pasar Minggu Police Station, Commissioner Anggiat Sinambela, has apologised following allegations that his officers neglected a report of a missing elderly woman, Warisem, who was briefly left at the station before going missing again. Warisem has since been found safe and reunited with her family, prompting the police to evaluate and improve their public services. The incident, highlighted by social media posts, underscores potential lapses in police responsiveness to vulnerable community members in Jakarta.

Strengthening Health Diplomacy, Bio Farma Group Pushes for International Market Expansion

Indonesia is bolstering its health diplomacy through a strategic partnership between Bio Farma Group and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to expand the national pharmaceutical industry's global reach. Kimia Farma, a subsidiary of Bio Farma, views this collaboration as key to accessing international markets and accelerating Indonesia's role in global health ecosystems. The integrated ecosystem of Bio Farma Group, encompassing development, production, and distribution, is poised to enhance competitiveness, strengthen health resilience, and position Indonesia as a trusted global health partner.

Attorney General Transfers 14 High Prosecutors, Including North Sumatra's

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has issued a decree mutating and rotating 14 prosecutors to positions as heads of regional high prosecutor's offices (Kajati) across Indonesia, including the appointment of Muhibuddin as Kajati for North Sumatra, replacing Harli Siregar. This personnel reshuffle, confirmed by the Head of the Legal Information Centre Anang Supriatna, is outlined in Attorney General's Decree No. 488 of 2026 dated 13 April 2026. The move aims to refresh leadership within the Attorney General's Office, potentially enhancing oversight and prosecution efforts in various provinces.

US Deploys Destroyer and Aircraft Carrier to Hormuz: How Formidable Is Its Power?

The United States is escalating tensions in the Middle East by blockading Iranian ports and deploying two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. and USS Michael Murphy, along with underwater drones from Task Force 59, to clear naval mines from the Strait of Hormuz following failed peace talks. Supported by the nuclear-powered USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, which carries over 60 aircraft, this operation aims to reopen vital energy shipping lanes amid a six-week war. The Strait's role as a critical global chokepoint underscores the strategic importance of securing maritime traffic, though it raises concerns of Iranian retaliation.