Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 13 April 2026

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Saudi Restricts Entry to Mecca Starting Today, Indonesia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Warns Against Temptations

Saudi Arabia has imposed restrictions on entry to the holy city of Mecca effective immediately, allowing access only to holders of official residency permits, Hajj visas, or work permits in sacred areas, as part of preparations for the 2026 Hajj season. The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged citizens to avoid illegal Hajj attempts using non-Hajj visas, highlighting risks of denial of entry and legal penalties under Saudi law. This annual policy aims to ensure the safety, order, and capacity limits for the pilgrimage, with the ministry coordinating closely with Saudi authorities for smooth operations for Indonesian pilgrims.

Nasdem Has Not Discussed Merger with Gerindra Internally Within the Party

Nasdem's Deputy Chairman Saan Mustopa stated that the party has not engaged in in-depth discussions about a potential merger or fusion with other parties, including Gerindra, as their current focus remains on consolidating and building party structures at national and local levels. He acknowledged that political mergers are not uncommon in Indonesia, citing the 1973 fusion that reduced parties to three, but emphasised the need to consider ideology, identity, and party existence before proceeding. Saan was unaware of the specifics of a recent meeting between Nasdem Chairman Surya Paloh and President Prabowo Subianto, attributing such interactions to routine coalition communications to support government priorities.

3.4 Million Commuters Take the Train, This Station Becomes the Busiest Point

Indonesia's Minister of Transportation, Dudy Purwagandhi, reported a 13.14% increase in long-distance train passengers to 3.4 million during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming and return flows, up from 3.02 million in 2025. Pasar Senen Station recorded the highest departures with 321,400 passengers, while Yogyakarta Station was the busiest arrival point with 234,800 passengers. Trains demonstrated the highest on-time performance at 96.9% for intercity services and 98.9% for urban routes, underscoring the efficiency of rail transport in managing peak holiday travel.

Rupiah Forecast to Weaken as US-Iran Tensions Fuel Inflation, Delay Fed Cuts

The Indonesian rupiah is anticipated to weaken further on Tuesday, trading in a volatile range of Rp 17,100 to Rp 17,150, amid escalating US-Iran tensions that have disrupted peace talks and heightened geopolitical risks. Sticky US inflation, exacerbated by rising energy prices from the conflict, has diminished expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate cuts, dampening global risk appetite and pressuring emerging market currencies like the rupiah. Analysts suggest potential stabilisation if diplomatic dialogue resumes, but warn of further depreciation if oil prices surge or rhetoric intensifies.

KPK: Role of Riau Governor's Aide Marjani in Collecting Extortion Money

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Abdul Wahid Marjani, aide to the inactive Riau Governor, played a crucial role in collecting extortion fees on behalf of Abdul Wahid from technical implementation unit heads within the Riau Public Works Department. The fees, amounting to 5% or Rp7 billion, were demanded in exchange for a budget increase from Rp71.6 billion to Rp177.4 billion for road and bridge projects in 2025, with non-compliance threatened by dismissal or transfer, colloquially known as the 'gangster's share'. The KPK conducted a sting operation, arresting Abdul Wahid at a cafe in Riau, highlighting ongoing issues of graft in regional governance.

House Commission XII Holds Working Meeting with Minister of Investment and Downstreaming/Head of BKPM

Indonesia's House Commission XII convened a working meeting with Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Roeslani and his deputy Todotua Pasaribu to discuss the realisation of the first quarter work programme for the 2026 fiscal year and evaluate the implementation of the integrated Online Single Submission (OSS) system. Chaired by Bambang Patijaya and co-chaired by Putri Zulkifli Hasan, the session at the parliamentary complex in Senayan, Jakarta, underscores ongoing parliamentary oversight of investment policies aimed at enhancing downstreaming and business licensing efficiency. This engagement highlights the government's commitment to streamlining investment processes amid economic development goals.

Anwar Usman collapses after retirement ceremony

Constitutional Court Justice Anwar Usman collapsed from exhaustion and low blood sugar following his retirement ceremony in Jakarta, where he had served for 15 years. During his farewell speech, he advised fellow judges to remain steadfast in upholding justice despite potential unpopularity. The incident highlights the physical toll of his long tenure, with medical assistance provided on site.

US Investigates Indonesia's Exports, Airlangga: Government Prepares Response

The Indonesian government is preparing an official response to a US Section 301 trade investigation targeting key export commodities, focusing on alleged structural excess capacity in manufacturing and the effectiveness of bans on imports produced with forced labour. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto stated that inter-ministerial meetings have been held to formulate the reply, which will be submitted to the United States Trade Representative for further review. This commodity-specific probe underscores ongoing efforts to safeguard national exports amid potential trade tensions, with no immediate details on related issues like potential Russian crude oil purchases.

To Achieve 0% Extreme Poverty Target by 2026, Cak Imin Asks Kopdes to Become "Off-Taker"

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar, has urged the Merah Putih Village and Sub-district Cooperatives (Kopdes Merah Putih) to act as off-takers for local products to help achieve the government's target of eliminating extreme poverty by 2026. The initiative aims to boost rural economies by accelerating the development of cooperative outlets and warehouses, fostering productivity and providing villagers with ownership stakes that yield annual profit shares. This collaborative effort across government institutions is positioned to strengthen national economic potential amid global challenges.

On Rumours of China Banning Civil Flights for 40 Days, Here's What the Ministry of Transportation Says

The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has clarified that reports of a complete 40-day ban on civil flights across China's airspace are inaccurate, with restrictions limited to temporary danger areas in specific regions, primarily for scheduled military exercises. A notable NOTAM in the Shanghai FIR reserves five polygonal zones in the East China Sea for 24 hours daily from 27 March to 6 May 2026, but these do not encompass all of China's airspace and have no current impact on Indonesian flight operations. The ministry, in coordination with AirNav Indonesia, will continue monitoring and updating the public on any developments affecting national aviation safety.

Pertamina Integrated Terminal Surabaya Receives PROPER Gold Award 2025 from Ministry of Environment

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Integrated Terminal Surabaya has been awarded the PROPER Gold 2025 by the Ministry of Environment for its commitment to sustainable environmental management. The achievement stems from innovative programmes such as SIMULTAN for energy efficiency, OPTIMIST for water savings, and CARGO for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the company's role in eco-friendly operations. As a key facility under Pertamina's Subholding Commercial & Trading Regional Jatimbalinus, the terminal supplies and distributes fuel to East Java, Bali, Nusa Tenggara, and surrounding areas, underscoring the integration of environmental stewardship in Indonesia's energy sector.

BPOM collaborates with Puteri Indonesia to educate on drug and food safety

Indonesia's National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) has appointed 45 finalists of Puteri Indonesia as Ambassadors for Safe Drugs and Food to promote public education on national drug and food security. BPOM Chief Taruna Ikrar emphasised the importance of empowering consumers to combat illegal products and misleading information, highlighting cross-sectoral and international collaborations. The initiative, supported by women's empowerment perspectives and annual partnerships with the Puteri Indonesia Foundation, aims to foster critical decision-making among women and inspire positive societal preferences for safe products.

KVB Futures Marks First Anniversary, Sustaining Growth Amid Indonesia's Expanding and Competitive Forex Market

KVB Futures is celebrating its first anniversary in Indonesia, where it has driven growth in the forex market through digital innovations, client-focused services, and competitive trading solutions tailored to local needs. The firm has earned recognition as the Best Broker Grade A++ for 2025 from regulator Bappebti and a listing on Investing.com, underscoring its commitment to credibility and compliance. Looking ahead, KVB Futures plans to expand engagement via offline events, collaborations, and educational initiatives while offering promotions like welcome rewards and swap incentives to enhance client value in this maturing market.

Permitted by Pramono, NasDem Party Wants to Sponsor Gondangdia Bus Stop Naming

The NasDem Party has expressed interest in sponsoring the naming rights for the Gondangdia bus stop near its Jakarta office, following an invitation from DKI Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung to political parties to participate in commercialising public transport facilities. NasDem's Deputy Chairman in the DKI DPRD, Wibi Andrino, stated that the party would pursue this if the process is transparent and priced appropriately, viewing it as a way to boost Jakarta's local revenue while adhering to legal regulations. Pramono emphasised the transparency of such initiatives during a public event, highlighting their role in generating retributions and taxes for the provincial government.

Viral Altercation Between Ride-Hailing Driver and Illegal Parking Attendant in Pamulang, Police Mediate

A video of a heated argument between an online motorcycle taxi driver and an illegal parking attendant in Pamulang, South Tangerang, went viral on social media after a misunderstanding over the driver's lack of uniform while picking up a food order. The incident, which escalated to verbal confrontation and an alleged strike on the driver's motorcycle, was reported to local police on Sunday night. Pamulang police station mediated the dispute, leading to a peaceful resolution where both parties agreed to drop any legal action.

Enactment of Reinsurance Broker Business Licence in Accordance with the Name Change - OJK

The Indonesia Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved the name change of reinsurance broker PT Hanofer Indonesia to PT Halim Javakarta Reinsurance Brokers, issuing the new business licence via Decree KEP-159/PD.02/2026 on 7 April 2026. This approval takes immediate effect, requiring the company to adhere strictly to all applicable laws, regulations, and OJK supervisory requirements. The decision underscores OJK's role in regulating financial entities to ensure compliance and stability in Indonesia's reinsurance sector.

Boarding Houses in Malang Introduce Digitalpreneur Ecosystem

Lumbung Coin Eco-resort, in collaboration with the Indonesia Construction Architecture Network (ICAN), has commenced construction of a boarding house complex in Malang, East Java, integrating residential living with skill development centres to foster a digitalpreneur ecosystem. The project, located near the Maulana Malik Ibrahim III State Islamic University in Junrejo, Kota Batu, aims to produce competitive digital talent through practical bootcamps, contributing to the government's goal of creating 19 million new jobs. Designed as a Muslim-friendly environment at 800 metres above sea level, the 67-unit complex features separate accommodations for men and women, family units, shared worship spaces, fitness centres, a swimming pool, and a mini supermarket, promoting cognitive performance and work-life balance.

Padang City Government Seeks Foreign Ministry Support to Raise Batang Arau Revitalisation Issue

The Padang City Government has urged the Indonesian Foreign Ministry to include the revitalisation of the Batang Arau River in the agenda of the upcoming high-level meeting between Indonesia and Germany in Jakarta. Mayor Fadly Amran highlighted a technical study by German experts recommending a central wastewater treatment plant using Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) technology, which remains unimplemented. Foreign Ministry Secretary General Denny Abdi pledged to advocate for this environmental issue in bilateral discussions, underscoring its relevance to Indonesia-Germany cooperation.

Preservation of Indonesian Archipelagic Manuscripts Enhances National Literacy Skills

The National Library of Indonesia (Perpusnas) is committed to preserving Nusantara manuscripts as part of national strategic policies to boost literacy and cultural development. This effort aligns with the Medium-Term National Development Plan (RPJMN), focusing on strengthening reading culture, standardising libraries, and integrating historical manuscripts into the nation's intellectual heritage through community-based conservation and digitisation. Ahead of its 24th anniversary in 2026, Perpusnas emphasises that safeguarding these ancient texts reinforces national identity and dignity via enhanced literacy ecosystems involving collaborations with local governments and communities.

Insurance Consortium Secures OJK Approval: Will Bad Debts in Online Loans Be Guaranteed?

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved an insurance consortium to offer protection against default risks in peer-to-peer online lending, limited to loans up to Rp5 million and focused on productive segments to support underserved borrowers. This initiative aims to bolster the P2P lending industry, which has seen outstanding financing grow 25% year-on-year to Rp106.9 trillion, despite a non-performing loan ratio of 4.45%. The move could enhance financial inclusion by providing alternative funding options outside traditional banking.

Digital Minister: 19 Countries Await Success of PP Tunas as Reference

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, has revealed that 19 other countries are closely monitoring the implementation of PP Tunas, a government regulation aimed at protecting children online by restricting their access to social media platforms based on age appropriateness. Countries such as France, Singapore, Malaysia, and the European Union have expressed interest, viewing Indonesia's approach as a potential global model given its large child population. The regulation, effective from 28 March 2026, mandates platforms like Meta, X, and Bigo Live to comply fully, while TikTok and Roblox partially adhere, and Google (YouTube) shows reluctance, highlighting the international significance of Indonesia's pioneering efforts in child digital safety.

Investors See Great Opportunities for Indonesia to Develop Technology Investments

Shui Hong Yong, Secretary General of Beijing Security, has highlighted Indonesia's substantial potential for technology investments, particularly in tech-based security sectors like smart cities and cybersecurity, amid its appealing growth phase for global investors including those from China. The Indonesian government emphasises the importance of synergy between foreign investors and local businesses to bolster the national economy, citing examples such as electric vehicle projects that generate jobs and energy efficiency. This collaboration is seen as key to driving economic circulation and enhancing national security stability.

Working in Batam on visitor visas, six foreigners detained

The Batam Special Class I Immigration Office detained six foreigners—five Chinese nationals and one Malaysian—on Monday (13/4) during Operation Wira Waspada 2026 for allegedly violating residency and work permit regulations by using visitor visas for employment. Authorities are investigating potential misuse of visas, including visa on arrival, with those found guilty facing penalties up to deportation under applicable laws. This operation underscores Indonesia's efforts to enforce immigration rules and protect the local job market in the strategic free trade zone of Batam.

Extreme Weather Prompts ASDP to Divert KMP Mamberamo Foja Route to Kosonaweja

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has diverted the KMP Mamberamo Foja ferry to Kosonaweja Port due to extreme weather conditions in northern Papua's waters, following shelter at Teba Port amid waves up to 4 metres and winds of 40 knots. The decision prioritises passenger safety while maintaining service obligations, with the vessel stopping at Bagusa and Trimuris ports en route, ensuring all passengers remain safe and logistical needs are met. This adaptive measure minimises disruptions to subsidised transport services in the region without significantly impacting public access.

Accompanied by Prananda, Megawati Receives Visit from Qatari Ambassador

Megawati Soekarnoputri, Indonesia's fifth president and PDIP chairwoman, hosted the Qatari Ambassador to Indonesia, Sultan bin Mubarak Al-Dosari, at her Jakarta residence, accompanied by her son Prananda Prabowo and other party officials. The two-hour meeting involved cultural exchanges, with Megawati presenting traditional Indonesian gifts and the ambassador expressing admiration for her family's historical legacy and her views on women's equality, which align with Qatar's progressive policies. This visit, the ambassador's first to a national figure besides President Prabowo, underscores strengthening diplomatic ties between Indonesia and Qatar, including an invitation for Megawati to visit Doha.

Freeport Indonesia Sells 33 Tonnes of Gold Throughout 2025

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) fell short of its 2025 production targets for copper and gold due to an operational incident in September 2025 that halted mining activities until late October. Despite selling only 71% of targeted copper and 49% of targeted gold, higher commodity prices boosted revenues to US$8.6 billion, exceeding expectations and contributing US$4.3 billion to state coffers, surpassing plans by 16%. This performance highlights the resilience of Indonesia's mining sector amid operational challenges, supported by global market trends.

Freeport Indonesia Records Sales of 33 Tonnes of Gold in 2025

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) fell short of its 2025 production targets for copper and gold due to an operational incident in September 2025 that halted mining activities until late October, with gold sales reaching only 33 tonnes against a target of 67 tonnes. Despite the reduced volumes, surging commodity prices—copper at 121% and gold at 180% of budgeted levels—bolstered the company's revenue to US$8.6 billion, or 83% of target. This performance exceeded expectations for state revenues, reaching US$4.3 billion, or 116% of the plan, primarily driven by corporate tax obligations.

Jakarta East City Government Strengthens Food Security Through Flagship Products in Each Sub-District

The Jakarta East City Government is bolstering food security and controlling inflation by promoting urban farming initiatives, with a key strategy of developing one flagship product per sub-district based on local potential. This approach, highlighted during a recent urban farming socialisation event, aims to enhance family and regional self-reliance, optimise limited urban spaces for productive use, and foster community innovation ahead of a 2026 roadshow across all sub-districts. Through cross-sector collaboration and expert-led webinars, the programme engages diverse participants to build a sustainable, community-based food resilience system in the face of urban challenges.

Aceh declares hydrometeorological disaster alert status until 20 April

The Aceh government has declared a hydrometeorological disaster alert status across several districts and cities from 13 to 20 April 2026, in response to the BMKG's warning of potential heavy rain due to atmospheric conditions like cyclonic patterns and wind shear. Secretary General M Nasir has instructed local authorities to activate 24-hour emergency posts, conduct real-time weather monitoring, and implement immediate mitigation measures including drainage cleaning, tree trimming, and securing utilities to prevent flooding and landslides. The alert emphasises cross-sector coordination, early warning systems, and readiness of rapid response teams and evacuation resources to minimise risks and ensure public safety.

BPPB Promotes Indonesian Language on the International Stage

The Indonesian Language Development and Cultivation Agency (BPPB) is actively promoting the Indonesian language globally, following its recognition as an official language in UNESCO's General Assembly. BPPB Head Hafidz Muksin highlighted that Indonesian is now on par with other international languages, with the Education Minister set to deliver a speech in Indonesian at an international forum in 2025. Additionally, the agency is focusing on revitalising local languages in regions like Bangka Belitung to prevent their extinction, encouraging local governments to organise language competitions in schools.

BNPP Promotes Access to Decent Housing in Border Areas

The National Border Management Agency (BNPP) is ensuring that communities in Indonesia's frontier areas receive access to decent housing to strengthen border regions, as stated by Secretary Komjen Pol. Makhruzi Rahman during the launch of the Gentengisasi programme and mass handover of subsidised homes in Bogor. This initiative supports President Prabowo Subianto's 3 million homes programme for low-income families, emphasising housing as a foundation for welfare and economic growth through local SME involvement. BNPP commits to collaborating with the Ministry of Public Works and Housing to accelerate permits, optimise land use, and develop border housing for sustainable benefits.

Ministry of Social Affairs Ready to Distribute Logistics Aid for Earthquake Victims in East Flores

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has pledged to provide logistical assistance to victims of the 4.7-magnitude earthquake that struck East Flores, Nusa Tenggara Timur, affecting 1,131 residents and forcing some to evacuate. Minister Saifullah Yusuf emphasised the ministry's immediate response during the emergency phase alongside other government entities, with plans for ongoing social aid in the post-emergency period. The disaster impacted several villages in the Adonara and East Solor sub-districts, highlighting the government's commitment to disaster management and support for affected communities.

PDI-P Legislator Urges Government to Be Transparent on US Military Aircraft Free-Flight Permissions in Indonesia

TB Hasanuddin, a PDI-P politician and member of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission I, has called on the government to disclose details regarding plans to grant unrestricted flight permissions to US military aircraft in Indonesian airspace, stressing the importance of transparency for national sovereignty. He emphasised the need for consultation with the DPR, particularly Commission I, and questioned the policy's basis, potential impact on Indonesia's active non-aligned foreign policy, and specifics such as aircraft types and restricted zones. Hasanuddin referenced the 2025 Airspace Management Law, which allows such permissions under international agreements but requires careful scrutiny to avoid compromising Indonesia's neutral stance in global power rivalries.

GAPMMI says plastic price rise will drive up food and beverage product prices

The Chairman of the Indonesian Food and Beverage Entrepreneurs Association (GAPMMI), Adhi S. Lukman, has warned that surging plastic prices are directly impacting the cost of food and beverage products, as nearly all such items rely on plastic packaging. With price increases ranging from 30% to 100% and looming supply shortages, businesses face eroded margins and are compelled to raise selling prices, potentially straining consumers amid limited affordability. To mitigate the crisis, industry players are urging the government to allow imports of plastic raw materials from alternative countries.

Indonesia Bonds Under Pressure as US–Iran Tensions Push Yields Up

Escalating US-Iran tensions following the collapse of peace talks are increasing global risk premiums, putting pressure on Indonesia's government bonds and driving yields higher as investors shift to safe-haven assets. Economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet predicts the 10-year SBN yield could rise to 6.65%-6.80% amid potential capital outflows, rupiah weakness, and inflation risks from higher energy prices, though domestic fundamentals and Bank Indonesia's interventions may limit the impact. While demand for bonds should persist, particularly for shorter tenors, the market remains sensitive to ongoing geopolitical volatility and global monetary policy shifts.

The Story of Muklisin, the PPSU Officer Who Went Viral for Posting "Before-After" Work Evidence

Muklisin, a 41-year-old PPSU officer in North Jakarta's Penjaringan subdistrict, has gained viral attention on social media for sharing before-and-after photos of his street cleaning efforts, highlighting his dedication to public sanitation. He began documenting his work in 2014 on Facebook and continues this personal initiative on Instagram, separate from official reports, amid concerns over a recent scandal involving falsified PPSU reports using AI in East Jakarta that could undermine public trust in such workers. His story underscores the importance of transparency in municipal services and the challenges faced by sanitation workers in maintaining clean environments despite varying community behaviours.

Parliament: Indonesian Airspace Policy for Foreign Militaries Must Be Transparent

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has emphasised that policies allowing foreign militaries access to Indonesian airspace must be conducted through official, transparent mechanisms in line with national law and diplomatic principles to safeguard national sovereignty. This statement comes in response to reports of a US-Indonesia agreement granting the US unrestricted airspace access, which the DPR is monitoring closely but refrains from further comment until official clarification from the government. The Defence Ministry has reaffirmed that full authority over Indonesian airspace remains under Indonesian control, underscoring the sensitivity of such matters.

Delpedro and Associates Challenge the Prosecutor's Cassation Appeal to the Supreme Court

The Advocacy Team for Democracy (TAUD) has submitted a counter-memoir to the cassation appeal filed by the public prosecutor against the acquittal of four activists—Delpedro Marhaen, Khariq Anhar, Muzaffar Salim, and Syahdan Husein—in a case involving alleged incitement of the August 2025 demonstrations. The counter-memoir seeks to uphold the Jakarta Central District Court's decision from 6 March 2026, emphasising the moral aspects of the law and the recognition of human rights in the ruling. One of the activists noted that the Supreme Court will ultimately test interpretations of the old and new Criminal Procedure Codes in this process.

February 2026 Retail Sales Strengthen, Household Consumption Boosted by Ramadan

Indonesia's national retail sales performance improved in February 2026, as reported by Bank Indonesia's Retail Sales Survey, with the Real Sales Index rising 6.5% year-on-year to 232.7, driven by increased demand for spare parts, accessories, food, beverages, tobacco, and clothing ahead of Ramadan. This growth reflects a strengthening of household consumption, a key economic driver, with notable monthly increases in several categories and regional variations, including strong performances in Surabaya and Banjarmasin but declines in cities like Bandung and Makassar. The Ramadan momentum underscores the seasonal boost to consumer spending, supporting overall economic resilience.

Telkom Collaborates with PGN to Promote Integrated Green Digital Infrastructure Ecosystem with Global Partners

PT Telkom Indonesia and PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to integrate digital infrastructure with low-carbon energy supplies, focusing on utilising green energy such as biomethane for sustainable data centre operations. This collaboration involves joint studies and implementation of green energy in Telkom's data centres both domestically and internationally, sourced from palm oil waste in Sumatra. The partnership strengthens synergies between state-owned enterprises, advances national digital transformation and energy transition, and enhances Indonesia's position in the regional digital ecosystem.

Bank Mega Syariah Transactions Reach Rp243 Billion During Ramadan

Bank Mega Syariah reported a surge in digital transactions during Ramadan 1447 Hijriah, exceeding Rp243 billion across more than 230,000 transactions, driven by heightened public needs for daily shopping, payments, and charitable giving. The most popular features included transfers, QRIS payments, and digital wallet top-ups, with QRIS usage growing over 65% in volume and 58% in transactions compared to the previous year. Additionally, the bank saw around 5,600 new accounts opened by 21 March 2026, amassing over Rp709 billion in third-party funds, boosted by online account openings and community outreach efforts promoting Islamic financial services.

Bulog Head Acknowledges Common Enemy, This is the Impact on Rice Prices

The head of Perum Bulog has identified rising plastic packaging costs as a shared challenge in the food industry, but assured that it will not lead to higher rice prices for consumers, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's directives. Despite a slight 0.22% increase in medium rice prices to Rp14,287 per kg as reported by BPS, Bulog is implementing internal adjustments, coordinating with the Ministry of Industry for relief, and conducting market operations to stabilise prices. This underscores Bulog's efforts to maintain food affordability amid inflationary pressures and ample rice stockpiles.

IDAI recommends children stay indoors during Godzilla El Niño phenomenon

The Indonesian Paediatric Society (IDAI) advises parents to keep children indoors during the extreme weather associated with the Godzilla El Niño to prevent fatigue and weakened immunity, while recommending a diet rich in animal proteins for better resilience. For any necessary outdoor exposure, such as morning sunbathing, sunblock and protective clothing are essential, particularly for newborns. This guidance comes amid BMKG forecasts of a potentially drier 2026 with an early and prolonged dry season due to a developing El Niño, prompting calls for mitigation efforts against drought in southern Indonesia and flooding in the northeast.

PLN states that gas and coal power plant operation days remain stable

PT PLN (Persero) has assured that the operation days (HOP) for gas and coal power plants are maintained at around 12 and 15.9 days respectively through April 2026, despite geopolitical tensions from the US-Iran conflict. The company highlighted stable LNG deliveries, sufficient government allocations avoiding imports, and reliable national electricity supply to support economic growth and public needs.

Anwar Usman Faints After Retirement Ceremony at Constitutional Court Building

Anwar Usman, a prominent figure associated with Indonesia's Constitutional Court, fainted following the completion of his retirement ceremony in Jakarta on Monday. After bidding farewell to active judges and expressing emotional reflections on his tenure, he received immediate medical attention from court doctors. The incident highlights the personal toll of his service amid past controversies at the court.

Anwar Usman's Farewell from the Constitutional Court and Revelation of Heavy Pressures on Judges: Each Ruling Adds an Enemy

Anwar Usman has officially ended his 15-year tenure as a judge at Indonesia's Constitutional Court (MK), expressing relief and reflecting on the profound challenges and pressures inherent in the role during his farewell ceremony. He highlighted the inevitability of facing criticism and gaining adversaries with every decision, as no ruling can satisfy all parties, and shared personal experiences documented in his books Kota Pandora 1 and 2. This departure underscores the demanding nature of judicial service in upholding truth, law, and justice amid intense scrutiny.

KPK Detains Marjani, Aide to Inactive Riau Governor, Suspect in Extortion Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Abdul Wahid Marjani, aide to the inactive Governor of Riau, for 20 days in connection with an alleged extortion or receipt of gifts and promises case within the Riau Provincial Government for the 2025 fiscal year. Marjani, who denies involvement and claims his name was misused, faces charges under Indonesia's anti-corruption laws, highlighting ongoing investigations into corruption at the provincial level. This development confirms the continuation of the probe, following examinations of witnesses and the suspect.

Scams Worsen in Indonesia, Communications Minister Meets Police Chief to Establish Call Centre

Indonesia's Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National Police Chief, Listyo Sigit Prabowo, to bolster efforts against rising digital crimes such as online scams, sextortion, and online gambling. The collaboration includes the creation of a joint call centre for faster public reporting and response, alongside enhanced law enforcement in cyberspace and protection of the National Data Centre. This initiative aims to significantly reduce these threats over the next year, addressing a surge in complaints that has alarmed the public.

Terrifying! 32 Million People Could Plunge into Poverty Due to US-Israel War Against Iran

The United Nations has warned that the economic fallout from the escalating US-Israel conflict with Iran could push over 32 million people worldwide into poverty, particularly in developing nations vulnerable to surging energy and food prices. This "triple shock" of energy crises, food insecurity, and slowing global growth threatens to reverse development gains, with UNDP Administrator Alexander De Croo highlighting the tragic reversal for those recently escaped from poverty. Even if a ceasefire is achieved, the IMF notes that the conflict's scars on the global economy may prove permanent, exacerbating risks to food security and logistics in the developing world.

Garda Indonesia Urges Government to Assign Danantara to Manage National Digital Transportation Ecosystem

The Indonesian Online Motorcycle Taxi Drivers Association, Garda Indonesia, has proposed that the government entrust Danantara with the strategic role of managing and integrating the national digital transportation ecosystem. This suggestion comes amid anticipation for a presidential regulation on online motorcycle taxis that would implement a 90:10 revenue-sharing scheme between drivers and platforms. The involvement of Danantara is seen as a progressive step to bolster national digital economic sovereignty, ensure fairer balances among platforms, drivers, and the state, and address structural challenges such as value distribution imbalances and inadequate social protections for drivers.