International relations experts at the Middle Powers Conference hosted by the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia have urged middle powers to adopt more proactive stances in diplomacy, defence, and private sector engagement, as global institutions weaken and great power rivalries intensify. Jonathan Berkshire Miller highlighted the need for independent approaches beyond reliance on the US and multilateral bodies like the UN and NATO, citing examples such as Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy inspired by Japan. Professor Moon Chung-in illustrated South Korea's strategic dilemmas, balancing security dependence on the US against economic ties with China, amid evolving global dynamics that test the international order.

Indonesia's Forestry Minister, Raja Juli, highlighted the nation's carbon market potential of 13.4 billion tons of CO₂ equivalent from 2024 to 2050, sourced from land restoration, production forests, social forestry, and customary forests. He outlined key goals including managing 48.7 million hectares of forest for emission reductions, restoring 3.5 million hectares of degraded land, and optimizing 1.3 million hectares of conservation areas. The established Forestry Sector Carbon Economic Value (NEK) framework enables carbon trading through GHG offsets, involving diverse participants like indigenous communities and private owners, positioning Indonesia to meet climate targets while fostering sustainable economic growth.

The Indonesian rupiah weakened by 22 points or 0.13 percent to Rp17,127 per US dollar on Tuesday, driven by the US military's announcement to extend its blockade from the Strait of Hormuz to the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. In response, Iran has threatened to target ports in bordering countries following failed talks in Islamabad, heightening geopolitical tensions. However, ongoing dialogues between the US and Iran, supported by Pakistan's efforts, offer some hope for de-escalation and mitigating supply risks.

TikTok has disabled 780,000 accounts belonging to users under 13 years old in compliance with child protection regulations. This action underscores the platform's efforts to safeguard minors online amid growing global concerns over youth safety. The move highlights the increasing enforcement of digital age restrictions by social media companies.

In compliance with Indonesia's PP Tunas regulation, TikTok has submitted a commitment letter to the government and deactivated 780,000 accounts belonging to users under 16 years old as of 10 April 2026. The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs announced this during a press conference, noting that the platform has also publicised the minimum age requirement of 16 on its help centre page. This move underscores the government's efforts to protect minors online amid growing concerns over digital safety.

Indonesia's economic and financial market prospects remain bright amid global uncertainties from the Middle East conflict, as affirmed by two international endorsements within a week. The Asian Development Bank projects stable GDP growth of 5.2% for 2026 and 2027, driven by robust domestic demand, controlled inflation, and calibrated monetary policies, surpassing regional averages. FTSE Russell has maintained Indonesia's status as a Secondary Emerging Market, acknowledging ongoing structural reforms in capital market integrity that enhance transparency and investor confidence.

Indonesia's Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, has condemned the alleged sexual harassment by 16 University of Indonesia law students in a digital group chat, emphasising that it degrades women's dignity and creates unsafe academic environments. She urged strict enforcement of the law without bias, referencing the 2022 Sexual Violence Crime Act, and stressed the need for victim support including psychological and legal aid to prevent stigma and re-victimisation. The university's dean has also issued a strong statement denouncing the behaviour and announced investigations that could lead to academic sanctions or expulsion, with potential coordination with law enforcement if criminal elements are found.

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has called for the reinforcement of the Reyog art ecosystem after its recognition as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding at the end of 2024. She emphasised the importance of preserving its philosophical values of courage, truth, and cultural harmony, while ensuring animal welfare by avoiding protected species in performances. The provincial Culture and Tourism Office is collaborating with educational institutions and conservation bodies to promote training, creativity, and sustainability of this national identity.

Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai has appointed Sofia Alatas as Acting Director General of Instruments and Strengthening (IDP) for Human Rights, aiming to ensure continuity in programmes and bolster national human rights policies. Previously serving as Director of Compilation and Evaluation of Human Rights Instruments, Alatas brings substantial experience to this strategic role focused on formulating, evaluating, and implementing effective human rights mechanisms. Pigai emphasised that the appointment is part of accelerating organisational performance to deliver consistent, measurable impacts on society, expressing confidence in Alatas's ability to foster cross-sectoral synergy for advancing human rights in Indonesia.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah M. Irfan Yusuf, known as Gus Irfan, has temporarily halted discussions on the proposed "war tiket" (ticket lottery) system for Hajj pilgrimages during a meeting with Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII. The ministry is prioritising preparations for the 2026 Hajj, which is imminent, amid opposition from lawmakers who argue that the focus should remain on improving the current Hajj management system rather than introducing potentially disruptive policies. Commission members like Maman Imanul Haq and M Husni SE have voiced concerns that the lottery idea could have negative impacts on the public and should be paused to ensure the success of this year's pilgrimage preparations, described as the most systematic to date.

A heated debate has erupted between the Indonesian government and the DPR RI over using the state budget (APBN) to cover the surge in Hajj flight costs due to rising aviation fuel prices, with calls for President Prabowo Subianto to issue an emergency regulation (Perppu) to resolve legal hurdles. Deputy Minister for Hajj and Umrah Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak affirmed the government's willingness to utilise APBN funds to shield pilgrims from the burden, but stressed the need for a strong legal basis, as current rules mandate covering such increases through the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH). While some invoke force majeure to justify immediate action, officials caution against setting a risky legal precedent without clear confirmation from Saudi authorities.

Rising energy costs are driving up cement prices in Indonesia, with industry leaders reporting increases of around IDR 1,500 to 2,000 per 50kg bag for companies like Indocement. The surges stem from higher industrial fuel prices, coal shortages due to delayed RKAB approvals, and elevated logistics costs for shipping and barging, particularly affecting distributions outside Java. This adjustment is necessary to offset operational pressures but is being implemented gradually to consider market purchasing power, amid broader challenges like the weakening rupiah against the US dollar.

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) soared 2.34% to close at 7,675.95, buoyed by strong performances in infrastructure and basic materials sectors amid global uncertainties. Escalating tensions in the Iran-US conflict have driven oil prices above US$100 per barrel and raised concerns over global supply chains, yet Indonesia's domestic fundamentals remain robust with inflation stabilising and projected first-quarter GDP growth of 5.2%. Bank Indonesia is actively monitoring markets and intervening to mitigate rupiah volatility and financial spillovers from the geopolitical strife.

A member of the DPR's Commission V from the Gerindra faction has praised the government's decision to cover the significant rise in Hajj flight costs, amounting to Rp 1.77 trillion due to surging aviation fuel prices and rupiah fluctuations, ensuring pilgrims are not financially burdened. President Prabowo Subianto's commitment highlights the state's dedication to making the Hajj pilgrimage accessible to all Indonesians. The Ministry of Religious Affairs is coordinating with relevant authorities to secure funding from sources like the state budget, with parliamentary support for smooth implementation.

Economist Eddy Jurnasin from Universitas Gadjah Mada has identified several factors contributing to the high rate of loan defaults on online lending platforms (pinjol) in Indonesia, including the misconception of quick loans as supplementary income rather than repayable debts. He notes that rising living costs, family expenses, and economic conditions exacerbate the issue, advising that borrowings should be directed towards productive purposes such as home mortgages, education, or business capital. Defaults lead to severe consequences like mounting fines, blacklisting on the OJK's SLIK system, and potential legal action, underscoring the need for responsible borrowing to maintain access to future financial services.

The Bantul Regency Government has welcomed a proposal from Gusti Kanjeng Ratu Mangkubumi of the Yogyakarta Palace to extend railway lines to the area, viewing it as a valuable addition to mass transportation amid increasing road congestion. Officials noted that while the idea has been discussed for years, detailed feasibility studies and substantial funding from central or provincial sources are required due to the high costs involved. This development could enhance connectivity and provide a more reliable travel option for residents, complementing existing services like Trans Jogja buses.

The LPDB Koperasi, in collaboration with the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI), is actively supporting local economic development in East Seram Regency, Maluku Province, by providing revolving funds and institutional strengthening to cooperatives, including the Merah Putih Village/Urban Ward Cooperatives (KDKMP). This initiative aims to harness the region's abundant natural resources in sectors such as fisheries, sago, wood processing, maritime activities, and renewable coastal energy to drive sustainable growth. With a target disbursement of Rp2.1 trillion this year, LPDB offers competitive financing options, both conventional and sharia-compliant, alongside business incubation to foster independent and professional cooperatives, highlighting opportunities in sago downstreaming, fish processing, eco-tourism, mangrove-based carbon trading, solar power plants, and vannamei shrimp farming.

A viral photo highlighting the stark contrast between the dilapidated building of SDN II Gandawesi primary school and the well-maintained SPPG kitchen in Majalengka has drawn attention to infrastructure disparities in education. The school principal notes that repair requests for damaged classrooms have been submitted and are being addressed by the local Education Department, with central government involvement for verification and support. The Majalengka Education Office confirms the school as a priority for 2026 renovations under revitalisation programmes and presidential aid, aiming to enhance teaching conditions.

Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia accompanied President Prabowo Subianto on a working visit to Russia, where they met with President Vladimir Putin to discuss energy cooperation aimed at ensuring stable domestic oil supplies and boosting national energy resilience. The talks focused on opportunities in oil refinery development, oil trade, energy technology utilisation, and long-term collaboration in clean energy to support diversification efforts. This partnership is expected to strengthen Indonesia's energy security and economic stability amid global dynamics, particularly following Indonesia's BRICS membership.

Indonesia's Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, announced that nearly 1 million TikTok accounts have been blocked or deactivated as part of efforts to curb underage users on the platform. TikTok, the first to report such actions, had deactivated 780,000 accounts of children under 16 by 10 April 2026, with estimates suggesting the total now approaches 1 million based on takedown trends. The government views this as an initial victory in protecting children in the digital space and urges other platforms to follow suit with similar transparency and enforcement.

Universitas Indonesia (UI) is investigating allegations of verbal sexual harassment involving students from its Faculty of Law (FH), with the process led by a task force focused on victim-centered approaches to ensure justice and confidentiality. The university has initiated internal probes, revoked memberships for suspects in student organizations, and is prepared to impose academic sanctions or coordinate with law enforcement if criminal elements are found. UI is also providing comprehensive support to victims, including psychological, legal, and academic assistance, while urging restraint in sharing unverified information to protect all parties involved.

Indonesia has signed a memorandum of understanding with the US Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency to assist in the research, search, recovery, identification, and repatriation of World War II US military personnel remains, as announced by the Ministry of Defense spokesperson. The agreement, signed in Washington DC by Major General Agus Widodo and DPAA Director Kelly K. McKeague in the presence of high-level officials, underscores humanitarian and historical cooperation while ensuring all activities comply with Indonesian laws, protect local interests, and do not grant automatic US access to Indonesian territory. This pact is expected to bolster bilateral relations between the two nations.

PT Pertamina is evaluating the suitability of Russian crude oil for processing in its refineries amid Indonesia's plans to purchase oil from Russia, as discussed in a recent meeting between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Vladimir Putin. The state-owned energy firm will proceed in line with government directives and regulations, emphasising caution, compliance, and commercial viability to ensure national energy security and sustainability. This collaboration also explores broader opportunities in oil refinery development, trade enhancement, technology utilisation, and long-term clean energy initiatives, addressing global energy market pressures.

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has reassigned 14 Heads of Regional Prosecutor's Offices across Indonesia, including Chatarina Muliana Girsang, who has moved from her role as Head of the Bali Prosecutor's Office to Head of the Attorney General's Asset Recovery Centre after just six months in the position. The new Head of the Bali office is Setiawan Budi Cahyono, previously Director IV in the Attorney General's Office for Intelligence. Chatarina, born in 1972, boasts an impressive career in law enforcement, including stints at the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) where she handled 127 school violence cases and 50 sexual violence cases, as well as academic and advisory roles in education, highlighting her expertise in legal and regulatory matters.

Residents of RT 11 in Gandaria Utara, South Jakarta, have installed solar-powered smart gates with card access systems at alley entrances to deter theft, particularly during late-night hours. The initiative, proposed by RT head Imam Basori, utilises operational funds and community contributions, enhancing residents' sense of security without restricting daytime access. This community-driven effort highlights grassroots social policy measures for urban safety and could inspire similar preventive actions in densely populated areas.

Didik J Rachbini, Rector of Paramadina University, has criticised public universities (PTNs) for accepting excessive numbers of students, arguing that this practice disrupts the higher education ecosystem and undermines the role of private universities (PTSs), many of which are affiliated with community organisations like NU and Muhammadiyah. He calls on the Minister of Education, Higher Education, Research, and Technology and the DPR to regulate PTN admissions, ensure fair distribution of state funds, and conduct audits on PTNs' fundraising outside the national budget to promote equity and quality in Indonesia's education system. This critique highlights the need for differentiation, with PTNs focusing on global research excellence and PTSs expanding access in underserved regions.

PT Freeport Indonesia is projected to contribute approximately US$4.3 billion (nearly Rp70 trillion) to the Indonesian state in 2025 through taxes, non-tax state revenues, and dividends to MIND ID. Despite a significant operational disruption from a fatal landslide incident at the Grasberg mine in September 2025, which halted production and reduced copper output by nearly 30% and gold by over 50%, the company's revenue only declined by 17% to US$8.6 billion, buoyed by rising commodity prices. This substantial contribution underscores Freeport's critical role in Indonesia's mining sector and national economy amid operational challenges.

PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) is advancing coal downstreaming initiatives by converting 9 million tonnes of coal into synthetic natural gas (SNG) through a joint venture with PT Perusahaan Gas Negara Tbk (PGN), targeting a production capacity of 237 BBTUD to supply alternative gas in South Sumatra to West Java. Additionally, PTBA is developing a coal-to-dimethyl ether (DME) project with a capacity of 1.4 million tonnes as a substitute for imported LPG, where PTBA will operate the plant and supply coal, while Pertamina acts as the full offtaker, potentially increasing value by 4.3 times. These projects aim to enhance energy security and economic value from Indonesia's coal resources.

Tensions in the Middle East have driven a surge in global commodity prices, including coal, which has risen about 41% since the beginning of 2026 to reach USD 130 per tonne, presenting Indonesia with a potential windfall that could boost national foreign exchange earnings. Deputy for Coordinating the Management and Development of SOE Businesses at the Indonesian Coordinating Ministry for the Economy, Ferry Irawan, highlighted the impact of rising prices for key exports like copper, nickel, gold, and CPO on boosting state revenues, though calculations are ongoing regarding volumes, price increases, and effects on the state budget. The government is studying the implementation of a windfall tax policy, considering its implications for state income and the sustainability of industries and businesses.

Residents of RT 11/RW 07 in Gandaria Utara, South Jakarta, have introduced a digital technology-based gate and GPS devices to combat rising motorcycle thefts, enhancing community security through innovative measures. The system, activated at night with access cards registered to household heads, has already shown positive results by eliminating reported crimes in the area, while future plans include GPS tracking for vehicles funded by RT operational budgets and community contributions. This initiative highlights grassroots efforts in public safety and aims to inspire similar tech-driven security models elsewhere, with potential expansion into economic empowerment programmes.

Yunita, a 37-year-old housewife from Aceh registered under the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme through the Aceh Health Insurance (JKA) initiative, is able to provide inpatient care for her young child suffering from fever, cough, and flu without financial burden, as all costs are covered by the government via BPJS Kesehatan. She highlights the programme's crucial role in easing access to medical services, including her own childbirth, and praises the efficient and responsive care at Cempaka Lima General Hospital in Banda Aceh. This case underscores the significance of Indonesia's social health protection schemes in delivering security and relief to low-income families during medical emergencies.

The World Gold Council forecasts a positive trend for gold prices in April 2026 following a sharp 12% decline in March to $4,608 per troy ounce, marking the deepest correction in nearly 13 years. This downturn was driven by massive sell-offs from retail investor exposure and speculation over central bank gold sales, but early signs of stabilisation emerge as the US dollar struggles to strengthen and demand picks up from wealth management and retail sectors. However, risks persist, including potential deleveraging across assets and official sector gold mobilisation if Middle East conflicts keep oil prices above $100 per barrel.

The Indonesian Ministry of Health highlights Stress Awareness Month 2026, themed #BeTheChange, as a call to action for individuals and society to tackle stress through practical steps, especially amid rising living costs, global economic uncertainty, and job threats. Citing WHO data on global economic losses of US$1 trillion annually from stress and mental disorders, and Indonesia's Rp87.5 trillion in direct and indirect costs, the ministry emphasises the need for integrating mental health services, literacy campaigns, and financial support for vulnerable groups. Drawing from successful policies in Scandinavian countries, Singapore, and Australia, the initiative positions mental resilience as essential for national health, productivity, and collective hope in challenging times.

Roblox has introduced two new account settings, Roblox Kids for users aged 5-12 and Roblox Select for those aged 13-15, tailored specifically for Indonesia to enhance child safety in digital spaces. These accounts feature age verification, restricted access to mild content, limited communication options, and unique visual designs, with automatic transitions as children grow older. The initiative aligns with local regulations through collaboration with Komdigi and differs from global standards to better protect young Indonesian users.

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has absorbed 54,911,065 litres of subsidised fuel in the first quarter of 2026, aligning with its annual quota of 214,342,000 litres to ensure the continuity of public transportation and goods distribution across regions. The majority of this fuel supports passenger train operations, while the remainder facilitates freight transport, including essential materials like cement and clinker that bolster infrastructure development. This measured and accountable usage underscores KAI's commitment to good corporate governance and transparency in contributing to Indonesia's national development efforts.

The Indonesian Agency for Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics (BMKG) has assured that there are no signs of a super El Niño event, popularly termed "Godzilla El Niño," occurring in 2026. Instead, the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is expected to remain neutral in the first half of the year, with a 55% chance of transitioning to a weak or moderate El Niño in the second half, potentially leading to reduced rainfall in vulnerable areas. BMKG emphasises that "Godzilla El Niño" is not an official term but a public reference to exceptionally strong events, and urges the public to monitor official updates for preparedness against drought risks.

The Chairman of Commission B of the DKI Jakarta DPRD, Nova Harivan Paloh, has endorsed Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung's proposal allowing political parties to participate in the naming rights programme for bus stops, provided it adheres to aesthetic standards and payment rules. This initiative aims to boost the region's original revenue (PAD) through commercial sponsorships, potentially generating billions of rupiah from high-visibility locations like Sudirman, amid a Rp15 trillion decline in revenue-sharing funds last year. Nova dismissed concerns over covert campaigning, equating it to standard paid advertising on billboards, as the Jakarta administration seeks diverse strategies to enhance local finances.

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) closed higher on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, gaining 175.76 points or 2.34% to reach 7,675.95, amid strong trading volume of 49.90 billion shares. The infrastructure sector led the gains with a 5.62% rise, followed by industrials at 4.47%, reflecting robust investor confidence in key economic areas. This performance across major indices like LQ45 and KOMPAS100 underscores positive market sentiment in Indonesia's financial landscape.

Eight members of the Direktorat Samapta at Polda Kepulauan Riau have been questioned by the Propam unit regarding the suspected death of Bripda Natanael Simanungkalit, a young officer who died at the police barracks on 13 April, possibly due to assault by a senior colleague. One of the eight is suspected as the perpetrator, while the others are being further investigated, with an ongoing autopsy at Bhayangkara Hospital to confirm the cause of death. The Kepri Police Chief, Irjen Asep Safruddin, has assured that the case will be handled firmly in accordance with ethical codes and general criminal procedures, highlighting concerns over internal police conduct and accountability.

Indonesian business leaders have highlighted that the country has the highest number of public holidays in ASEAN, with 27 days annually, leading to the second-shortest working hours of 40 per week and lower productivity compared to regional peers. During a hearing with DPR's Commission IX on the Employment Bill, Apindo's Myra Maria Hanartiani cited ILO data to underscore how these factors hinder efficiency. She proposed a review of holiday policies, including fixed annual schedules and potentially extending working hours, to boost worker productivity.

PT Pegadaian has been awarded the Best Social Bond/Sukuk - Non Bank Financial Institution (NBFI) category at The Asset Triple A Sustainable Finance Award 2026 in Hong Kong, recognising its issuance of sustainable social bonds and sukuk worth a total of Rp3.49 trillion in 2025. This accolade highlights Pegadaian's successful integration of sustainable finance principles into its funding strategy, expanding financial access and supporting economic inclusion for the wider community. The achievement underscores Pegadaian's commitment to innovative financial instruments that optimise national economic potential while aligning with ESG practices in Southeast Asia's non-bank financial sector.

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) has strengthened recently, signalling growing investor confidence in Indonesia's capital market reforms amid global uncertainties. OJK has introduced policies such as increasing the minimum free float to 15 per cent and enhancing shareholder data transparency to address market concerns. Analysts note that FTSE Russell's continued classification of Indonesia as a secondary emerging market underscores global trust, potentially paving the way for improved market status and sustained investment interest.

Dino Patti Djalal, founder of the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI), has urged the Indonesian government to steadfastly uphold its foreign policy principles amid global uncertainties, drawing lessons from Pakistan's bold mediation between the US and Iran. He emphasised that Indonesia, as a middle power, should fearlessly criticise major powers like the United States when necessary, citing Pakistan's condemnation of US and Israeli attacks on Iran as violations of international law. This stance aligns with Indonesia's independent and active foreign policy, enabling it to advocate for a fair world order.

The South Sulawesi Provincial Government is refining the National Integrated Social Economic Data (DTSEN) through periodic updates in collaboration with the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) and the Ministry of Social Affairs' SIKS-NG application, extending to village and sub-district levels. This initiative aims to guarantee that social assistance programmes, including the Family Hope Program (PKH), staple food aid, and JKN health insurance premium contributions, are distributed accurately to intended beneficiaries. By enhancing data precision, the province seeks to improve the effectiveness and equity of social welfare distribution across the region.

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has announced the delisting of PT Sri Rejeki Isman Tbk (SRIL), a textile company declared bankrupt, effective 10 November 2026, affecting 45,866 shareholders including prominent investor Lo Kheng Hong who holds shares worth Rp30.56 billion. Investors can either sell their shares in the negotiation market during a limited suspension period or retain them in hopes of a rare relisting, while regulations like POJK No. 3/POJK.04/2021 mandate buyback options to protect retail investors. This case underscores the risks of investing in distressed companies and the regulatory safeguards in place to mitigate losses for shareholders.

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has warned that central government aid will be withdrawn if West Sumatra's provincial and local authorities do not promptly handle the agricultural impacts of recent disasters, citing bureaucratic delays and poor communication as key issues. During a visit to Padang Pariaman district, he highlighted that funds disbursed in January 2026 remain largely unutilised, despite the direct harm to farmers reliant on rice fields. West Sumatra's Deputy Governor acknowledged the delays, emphasising the need for improved coordination to serve affected communities effectively.

The Indonesian Mining Association (API-IMA) has urged the government to reconsider the proposal to halt tax refunds, warning that such a move could severely impact business stability and operations, particularly in the mining sector. Executive Director Sari Esayanti emphasised that tax refunds are a rightful mechanism for excess payments, essential for maintaining company cash flow and good governance, while also fostering investor confidence through legal certainty. Apindo's Tax Committee Chairman Siddhi Widyaprathama echoed these concerns, stressing the need for careful policy review to avoid disrupting business activities and domestic investment.

The world faces the potential return of a severe El Niño event in 2026, with US NOAA estimating a 62% chance of its emergence by mid-year and a one-third possibility of it intensifying to "super" levels, potentially surpassing the record heat of 2023-2024. In Indonesia, BRIN warns of a "Godzilla" El Niño disrupting dry season agriculture, leading to rice production shortfalls and price spikes due to the country's rain-dependent farming and inadequate irrigation. While BMKG assesses the odds of a super event at only 15-20%, the risks of global droughts, floods, crop failures, and food insecurity underscore the need for preparedness amid ongoing climate change.

Rosan Roeslani, CEO of the Investment Management Agency Danantara (BPI Danantara), has emphasised that the agency will prioritise technologies proven effective globally for the Waste Processing into Electricity (PSEL) programme, while remaining open to other viable options. The government has identified 20 priority agglomeration areas across 47 regencies/cities, where daily waste generation exceeds 1,000 tonnes, as mandated by President Prabowo and formalised by the Ministry of Environment. This initiative aims to accelerate waste management in high-waste urban areas, with additional monitoring of seven other regions generating 500-1,000 tonnes daily, focusing on efficient, rapid, and community-accepted solutions sourced from countries like Japan, South Korea, the Netherlands, China, and domestically.

Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has revealed a significant surge in Hajj flight costs due to rising aviation fuel prices and currency fluctuations, prompting Garuda Indonesia and Saudi Airlines to request additional fees totaling Rp 1.78 trillion. This has elevated the overall flight expenses from Rp 6.69 trillion to Rp 8.46 trillion, but President Prabowo Subianto has directed that these increases should not burden Hajj pilgrims. The government is exploring compliant financing options and coordinating with the Attorney General's Office to ensure the legality of funding sources under force majeure conditions.