PT Pelindo reported a 14.14% increase in passenger traffic during the 2026 Eid travel period, reaching 2.6 million passengers from H-15 to H+15 compared to 2.3 million the previous year, reflecting strong public trust in its services. Significant surges were noted at Tanjung Balai Karimun, with passenger numbers jumping 79.83%, while enhancements at 63 passenger terminals and optimisation of key ports like Ciwandan ensured smooth and safe operations. This success underscores Pelindo's commitment to improving facilities, comfort, and safety, setting a foundation for future enhancements in Indonesia's maritime infrastructure.

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs anticipates the disbursement of PKH and BPNT social assistance for April 2026 in the third week of the month, aligning with the second quarterly phase and accelerated data updates. Eligible recipients for PKH include extremely poor families registered in the National Single Social Welfare Database with specific vulnerable members such as pregnant women, young children, school-aged students, severe disabilities, and the elderly, receiving aid from Rp225,000 to Rp2.7 million per phase. BPNT targets poor families with verified IDs, providing Rp200,000 monthly for basic food needs, excluding civil servants, military personnel, and those with stable government incomes.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated it will review the legal considerations behind a Jakarta Selatan District Court judge's decision to grant a pre-trial motion filed by DPR Secretary General Indra Iskandar, which revoked his suspect status and ordered the halt of the investigation into alleged corruption in the 2020 procurement of parliamentary housing equipment. Despite respecting the ruling as part of due process, KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo emphasised that the decision does not end enforcement efforts, and the commission retains authority to proceed if sufficient evidence exists. This development follows Indra's designation as a suspect in March 2025, highlighting ongoing tensions between anti-corruption bodies and legal challenges in high-profile cases.

Singapore's central bank, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), has tightened its monetary policy by increasing the rate of appreciation of the nominal effective exchange rate (S$NEER) amid inflationary pressures and economic slowdown. The bank forecasts a moderation in GDP growth for the year, with imported energy costs driving up prices of goods and services, leading to revised higher inflation projections of 1.5-2.5%. This move, anticipated by most analysts, underscores Singapore's unique exchange rate-based approach to monetary policy amid global supply chain disruptions.

The Indonesian rupiah depreciated by 0.13% to close at Rp17,127 per US dollar on Tuesday, driven primarily by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. While signals of potential US-Iran dialogue are easing concerns over global energy supply disruptions, such as the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, ongoing uncertainties have prompted businesses to adopt a cautious 'wait and see' approach. International bodies like the IMF and World Bank have urged nations to avoid energy hoarding amid this major market shock.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned a civil servant from the Directorate General of Customs and Excise with initials FM as a witness in an ongoing corruption case within the customs agency. This examination follows previous arrests and designations of suspects, including high-ranking officials like Rizal, the former Director of Enforcement and Investigation, and others implicated in bribery and gratifications related to the importation of counterfeit goods. The case has expanded to include probes into excise management after the seizure of Rp5.19 billion in cash from a safe house in South Tangerang, highlighting persistent corruption issues in Indonesia's customs and excise sector.

Faizal Assegaf, Director of PT Sinkos Multimedia Mandiri, has filed a police report against KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo for alleged defamation following statements that suggested his involvement in a customs importation corruption case. Assegaf, who was questioned by the KPK as a witness regarding potential receipt of goods or facilities from suspect RZ, claims the spokesperson's remarks misrepresented the clarification process and damaged his reputation. This incident highlights tensions between public figures and anti-corruption authorities in handling sensitive investigations.

Vivo has adjusted prices upward for several smartphone models in Indonesia as of 14 April 2026, with increases ranging from hundreds of thousands to Rp 800,000, primarily affecting the Y and V series due to rising costs of core components like RAM, storage, and chipsets. This selective hike, influenced by global memory supply shortages, follows a similar adjustment in January 2026 and highlights ongoing challenges in the electronics market. Consumers eyeing the latest Vivo devices, such as the V60 Lite 8GB/256GB variant, should note these changes before purchasing.

Indonesia's cement industry is under significant pressure due to declining demand, particularly in the bulk segment, driven by a sharp slowdown in infrastructure projects from around Rp400 trillion to just Rp85 trillion. This has led to an oversupply of 55 million tonnes and low factory utilisation rates, exacerbated by rising production costs from surging energy prices and new capacity additions. The situation raises concerns about the overall health of the sector amid unrecovered market conditions.

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is rolling out the digital traceability system Stelina for fishery product exporters in phases, starting with key commodities like tuna, shrimp, and crab, to meet international demands for legal, traceable, and sustainable sourcing. Regulated under Ministerial Regulation No. 32 of 2024, Stelina integrates data from capture to marketing and aligns with global standards, positioning Indonesia as the first country to pass capability tests for interoperability with worldwide systems. The initiative, targeting full adoption by 2027, is expected to streamline verification processes and enhance export efficiency, as supported by industry associations.

Indonesia and the United States have elevated their defence cooperation to the Major Defence Partnership (MDCP) level, as announced following a meeting between their defence ministers at the Pentagon. This partnership focuses on military modernisation, professional training, and operational exercises to enhance regional stability in the Indo-Pacific while upholding Indonesia's principles of active non-alignment and national sovereignty. Indonesian lawmakers and officials view it as an opportunity to bolster national defence capabilities without compromising sovereignty, particularly clarifying that US overflight permissions are not included in the agreement.

President Xi Jinping met with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in Beijing to strengthen bilateral cooperation and oppose a return to the 'law of the jungle' in international relations, particularly in light of the ongoing US-Iran conflict. Xi urged Madrid and Beijing to uphold true multilateralism amid global turmoil between rule of law and power politics. The visit highlights robust trade ties, with bilateral trade exceeding $55 billion last year, as both nations prepare to host US President Donald Trump next month.

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has stated that plans for a tram system in the historic Kota Tua area are still under review and require thorough evaluation following a proposal from Deputy Governor Rano Karno. The provincial government is prioritising the completion of the MRT Lebak Bulus-Kota project by early 2029 and expanding Transjakarta bus routes to connect Kota Tua with surrounding regions. Pramono is optimistic that integrated public transport, including KRL, MRT, and Transjabodetabek services, will revitalise the colonial-era district and boost its appeal to residents and visitors.

Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has emphasised the need to bolster cultural tourism by managing historical sites such as palaces and keratons across the country, while integrating intellectual property strategies to ensure authentic preservation and commercialisation. Discussions with former Deputy Minister Sapta Nirwandar highlighted collaborations for international cultural events, innovative bamboo-based products, and the development of religious and cultural tourism at sites like Borobudur and Prambanan temples, alongside sports-based initiatives. The meeting concluded with commitments for ongoing coordination to formulate effective approaches that drive positive economic impacts through the creative and tourism industries.

In a corruption trial over the procurement of Chromebook laptops for Indonesian schools, witness Iwan Syahril testified that utilisation reached 98 percent by 2024, with only seven out of 38,863 targeted schools yet to fully implement the devices. Despite minor field challenges, ongoing training and monitoring ensured high adoption rates, even for offline use in learning and assessments, highlighting the programme's success under former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim. Additionally, a remaining budget of Rp 113 billion from 2022 was returned to the state treasury, underscoring fiscal accountability amid the allegations.

The Jayapura Regency government in Papua has provided 30 tonnes of rice along with essentials like sugar, cooking oil, eggs, and coffee to residents affected by the flooding from Lake Sentani. In addition to food aid, the administration is deploying medical teams to prevent disease outbreaks and plans to repair damaged infrastructure while ensuring all impacted families receive support. This response underscores the local government's commitment to alleviating hardships during natural disasters, focusing on basic needs and health services.

The Indonesian government has mandated Work From Home (WFH) for civil servants every Friday starting April 2026 to foster cultural transformation in the workplace, enhance energy efficiency, and promote technological adaptation. Despite challenges such as coordination difficulties, family distractions, and inadequate home facilities, the policy requires employees to remain on standby with a maximum five-minute response time. To maintain professionalism, the article advocates infusing work with a religious motivation of worship, drawing on Islamic principles exemplified by a historical anecdote of Caliph Umar, emphasising internal divine oversight over mere external supervision.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa met with prominent US investors including HSBC Global Asset Management, Lazard AM, Blackrock, Lord Abbett, and TD Asset Management in New York to discuss Indonesia's macroeconomic fundamentals and fiscal strategies. The investors expressed confidence in Indonesia's policies and intent to invest, seeking reassurance on recent fiscal concerns amid positive feedback on improving communication. Purbaya emphasised maintaining economic growth targets, such as 5.5% in the first quarter, to bolster investor trust and attract larger investments.

The United States is investing nearly US$2 trillion in data centres to bolster its AI dominance, yet this massive outlay is inadvertently benefiting China through global supply chains. According to Oxford Economics, three-quarters of the costs flow to technology suppliers in Asia, with China's exports to regional intermediaries surging despite direct trade restrictions from Washington. This highlights the enduring interconnectedness of Asian manufacturing, underscoring the challenges in fully decoupling from China amid escalating US-China tensions.

Residents of Jalan H Djairi in Cengkareng, West Jakarta, have endured a persistent clean water crisis for over 30 years, relying on PAM Jaya's piped water service that delivers black, murky, and foul-smelling water during the day. To obtain usable water, they must collect it between 1:00 and 4:30 a.m. when the flow is temporarily clean and strong, highlighting chronic failures in urban water infrastructure. This ongoing issue underscores the urgent need for improvements in Jakarta's public utilities to ensure reliable access to clean water for densely populated areas.

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has introduced an online service through its Super App for citizens to file police reports and lost item reports digitally, aiming to enhance transparency, accountability, and accessibility. Initially implemented in select regions like Polda Metro Jaya, West Java, and Banten, the service includes real-time consultation features via video and chat, with plans for nationwide expansion. This digital initiative underscores Polri's commitment to modernising public services, improving efficiency, and ensuring professional handling of reports through integrated monitoring and documentation.

The Indonesian government is closely monitoring potential soybean price hikes influenced by the Iran-US-Israel conflict to prevent significant domestic impacts. Deputy Agriculture Minister Sudaryono emphasised that the administration is tracking all commodities, including imports and exports, to maintain stability. Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman has urged importers not to excessively raise prices, with national food agency regulations capping local soybeans at Rp11,400 per kg and imports at Rp12,000 per kg, amid reports of import prices reaching Rp20,000 per kg.

Allo Bank Indonesia (BBHI) has received the Omnichannel Impact Award at the 8x8 Indonesia Appreciation Event 2025 for its successful integration of 8x8's communication platform to deliver secure, mobile-first banking services at scale. The collaboration, initiated in 2022, has enabled enhanced customer authentication via SMS and WhatsApp OTPs, automated reminders, and notifications, serving 14 million customers and expanding to over 20 countries. This achievement underscores the growing importance of robust communication infrastructure in building customer trust within Southeast Asia's digital finance sector.

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, announced that only Roblox and YouTube remain non-compliant with the government's policy limiting access for users under 16, as part of the implementation of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Electronic System Governance for Child Protection (PP TUNAS). While six other platforms have adhered to the rules, benefiting Indonesia's 70 million children under 16, the ministry is engaging in discussions with the two holdouts and has issued warnings to all platforms to submit implementation plans and risk assessments within three months. This move underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding young users online, with Roblox already adjusting global settings in response to similar international bans on social media and gaming access for minors.

The Central Banking Forum 2026, hosted by CNBC Indonesia and Bank Indonesia, explores Indonesia's economic resilience amid global exchange rate volatility, with experts emphasising the Rupiah's stable position supported by controlled inflation at 3.8%, a robust trade balance, and sufficient foreign reserves. Officials from the Ministry of Finance affirm the health of the state budget, backed by 10.5% tax revenue growth despite rising Q1 spending, enabling funding for the energy sector and prudent debt management amid global energy price surges. Economists highlight the need for long-term reforms, such as renewable energy development, to counter capital outflows and maintain middle-class purchasing power, drawing lessons from past crises like 1998 and Covid-19.

A Pakistani national, identified as MUR, was detained by the Tangerang Immigration Office after causing a disturbance and assaulting locals with a bamboo stick in Ciledug, Tangerang, leading to viral social media videos and minor property damage. Authorities coordinated with police and social services upon discovering he lacked identification documents, and subsequent checks revealed his business visit visa is valid until May 2026. Diagnosed with acute psychotic disorder, he has been transferred to a mental health hospital for observation, with ongoing investigations ensuring legal enforcement while respecting human rights.

Indonesia has denied reports that its new defence cooperation pact with the United States includes overflight clearance for US aircraft, with the Defense Ministry clarifying that such provisions are not part of the agreement signed in Washington. The ministry is evaluating proposals on airspace permissions while prioritising national sovereignty, public safety, and compliance with laws, ensuring all cooperation aligns with Indonesia's independent and active foreign policy. The MDCP focuses on areas like defence technology, operational readiness, military education, and personnel exchanges to bolster national defence without compromising core principles.

The Banyumas Regency Environmental Agency (DLH) is expanding its Environmentally and Educationally Based Integrated Waste Processing Site (TPST BLE) in Wlahar Wetan Village to address the rising daily waste volume, which has surged to 160 tons of organics and 60 tons of RDF, far exceeding the site's current 40-ton capacity. This initiative, supported by community self-help groups (KSM) handling 500 tons of household waste daily, includes plans for a 1.5-hectare expansion tendered through the Ministry of Public Works, aiming for completion by 2026, alongside strengthening village waste banks and attracting investments like a Malaysian partnership for plastic waste processing. The development emphasises not only physical infrastructure but also institutional capacity, human resources, operational standards, and sustainable financing to optimise waste management across the regency's 331 villages and sub-districts.

Economist Eko Listiyanto from the Institute for Development of Economics and Finance (Indef) views the government's Rp497 trillion investment target for the first quarter of 2026 as achievable, citing strong economic growth of 5.39% in the fourth quarter of 2025 and anticipated demand surges during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani shares this optimism, projecting the target will create 627,000 jobs, a 5.5% increase year-on-year, as part of the broader national goal of Rp2,041.3 trillion in investments for 2026 to drive 8% economic growth under the 2025-2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan.

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) convened the Technical Working Meeting (Rakernis) for Public Relations (Humas) for the 2026 Fiscal Year in Jakarta to bolster the strategic role of its communications arm amid the complexities of digital-era public information dynamics. The event, themed around optimising public communication and media management to support Polri's work plans and the President's Asta Cita programme, featured in-person and online participation from headquarters to regional levels, with emphasis on building public trust, combating disinformation, and enhancing media handling capacities. This initiative aims to foster stronger synergies within Humas units, promote constructive public opinion, and increase transparency to reinforce societal confidence in the institution.

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has assured that the distribution of luggage to Hajj pilgrims will be completed by 17 April, following delays addressed through warnings to the responsible company and airlines like Garuda. Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf reported sending assistance teams to monitor distribution, including visits to a company in Bogor, and is considering penalties for the lapses. Additionally, the ministry is coordinating with hotels to enhance facilities such as carpets, curtains, ablution areas, and sanitation for pilgrim safety and comfort.

A professor from Universitas Gadjah Mada has identified two constitutional problems with trying Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel for general criminal offences in military courts: inequality between civilians and soldiers, and potential bias against civilian victims due to doubts over judicial independence. During testimony at the Constitutional Court, he argued that this setup violates principles of equality before the law and a rule-of-law state, calling for reforms to align with international trends limiting military jurisdiction to wartime or military-specific crimes. The case challenges provisions in the 1997 Military Justice Law, highlighting risks of impunity and threats to civilian supremacy in Indonesia's democracy.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating claims that active police officer Yayat Sudrajat received a Rp 16 billion fee linked to a bribery scheme involving project advancements in Bekasi Regency. The case centres on Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang and his father HM Kunang, who allegedly received Rp 9.5 billion in bribes from private party Sarjan, bringing the regent's total illicit gains to Rp 14.2 billion. This probe underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in local government procurement, with all three named as suspects under anti-corruption laws.

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has called for enhanced collaboration between the government and female entrepreneurs to boost national economic growth, particularly in the micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) sector. During a meeting with the Indonesian Muslim Women's Entrepreneurs Association (IPEMI) at the Vice Presidential Palace, he emphasised the need to optimise government programmes and stimuli, while highlighting the importance of marketing support to improve market access and competitiveness for local products. IPEMI's chairperson, Ingrid Kansil, affirmed the organisation's readiness to partner with the Prabowo-Gibran administration in distributing these initiatives nationwide, aiming to empower women-led businesses and foster inclusive, sustainable economic development.

US President Donald Trump's decision to impose a blockade on shipping to and from Iranian ports, effective from 13 April 2026, aims to economically pressure Iran amid an ongoing war but risks escalating global energy crises and regional conflicts. While the blockade could force Iran to concede on its nuclear programme by disrupting oil exports, experts warn that Iran has reserves and historical resilience to withstand such measures for months, potentially leading to soaring food prices domestically and oil prices globally approaching US$150 per barrel. The move also threatens to implicate neutral countries like India and China, challenging international law and straining alliances.

Twenty female students and seven lecturers from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law (FH UI) have been identified as victims of alleged sexual harassment by 16 male students from the 2023 batch, who discussed them inappropriately in a social media group chat. The perpetrators have publicly admitted their actions and issued an apology via their class group, shifting their status from suspects to confirmed perpetrators according to the student council. This incident, which went viral on social media, underscores ongoing issues of sexual misconduct in academic environments and the need for stronger institutional responses to protect victims.

Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, emphasised that the historical Fort Speelwijk in Serang, Banten, should be preserved and utilised in a way that integrates protection and cultural enhancement, rather than treating it as a mere static artefact. Recent excavations by archaeologists have uncovered building structures and VOC-era bullets, highlighting the site's colonial history from the Daendels era, with hopes for deeper collaborations involving BRIN and universities. Zon is also coordinating with the Governor of Banten to develop an interconnected historical tourism ecosystem including sites like Keraton Surosowan and the Great Mosque of Banten to broaden public awareness and engagement.

The Ministry of Creative Economy states that leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) in productivity can help close Indonesia's technology gap and boost the global competitiveness of its human resources. Director Tri Wahyudi highlighted during the launch of the Badan Ekraf Digital Talent (BDT) 2026 programme that AI adoption, particularly among Gen Z, has increased productivity by 96% according to PwC data, yet 57% of companies face a shortage of AI-skilled talent. The BDT 2026 initiative aims to enhance digital adaptability in the creative economy sector, fostering innovation and enabling Indonesian products to compete internationally rather than merely using foreign technology.

Habib Aboe Bakar Alhabsy, a PKS member of the DPR's Commission III, has issued a public apology following his controversial remarks during a BNN meeting on 7 April, where he claimed that ulama from Madura were involved in drug trafficking and that narcotics were infiltrating pesantren. The apology came after he was summoned by the Mahkamah Kehormatan Dewan (MKD) for clarification, acknowledging that his generalised statements had unfairly targeted respected religious figures and sparked public controversy. He clarified that his intention was to urge heightened vigilance against drugs in religious educational institutions, expressing deep respect for Madurese ulama and regretting his poor delivery.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Ferry Yunanda, Secretary of Riau's Public Works, Spatial Planning, Housing, Settlement Areas, and Land Agency (PUPRPKPP), as a witness in a corruption case involving alleged extortion by former Riau Governor Abdul Wahid. This follows the recent designation of Abdul Wahid's aide, Marjani, as a suspect, alongside previous arrests and suspect designations of the governor, the agency's head, and a gubernatorial advisor in the 2025 budget-related scandal. The ongoing investigation highlights deepening probes into graft within Riau's provincial government, underscoring KPK's efforts to combat corruption in public infrastructure sectors.

The Deputy Chair of Commission X of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Lalu Hadrian Irfani, has called for strict sanctions against 16 students from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law accused of harassing a female student via WhatsApp and LINE group chats. He emphasised the importance of maintaining campus safety and integrity, referencing the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Regulation No. 55 of 2024, which outlines mechanisms and penalties for such violations in higher education. The incident came to light when the perpetrators publicly apologised in their class group, admitting their actions, highlighting ongoing efforts to address sexual harassment in academic environments.

The Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) in East Kotawaringin Regency, Central Kalimantan, is enhancing coordination with relevant agencies to prepare for the worst effects of drought in coastal regions, including shortages of clean water and disruptions to agriculture that could threaten food security. Officials highlight risks such as saltwater intrusion affecting water sources in areas like Mentaya Hilir Utara and Selatan, potentially extending to northern regions, and emphasise early interventions like deploying water tankers and collaborating with agricultural authorities to safeguard harvests.

The Jakarta Provincial Government has officially announced 103 free private schools for 2026, spanning levels from primary to special education, as part of a policy to enhance inclusive and equitable access to education. This initiative, outlined in Jakarta Governor Regulation No. 34 of 2025, provides financial assistance to qualifying private schools, allowing them to operate without charging students. The programme addresses capacity limitations in public schools and promotes quality education across Jakarta's administrative regions.

Japan has suspended new hires of foreign workers in the food services sector under its specified skilled worker programme, as the industry approaches its 50,000-worker quota by fiscal year 2028, with 46,000 already employed as of February. Businesses, including restaurant chains reliant on South Asian and other foreign staff, warn of intensified hiring difficulties in a tight labour market, potentially exacerbating operational challenges, especially in rural areas facing population decline. This move highlights Japan's growing dependence on foreign labour amid an ageing population, prompting calls for more sector consultations and policy reviews on immigration.

Pertamina Patra Niaga has debunked a viral social media hoax claiming that registering as a depot or sub-depot for subsidised 3 kg LPG requires payment, emphasising that such registrations are free and aimed at ensuring subsidies reach the needy. The company warns the public to be vigilant against misleading information from fake accounts impersonating official ones and urges verification through official channels. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in combating misinformation about government-subsidised energy products in Indonesia.

Indonesia and the United States have elevated their bilateral defence relationship to a Major Defense Cooperation Partnership, formalised during a meeting between Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon. The partnership encompasses three pillars—military modernisation and capacity building, training and professional military education, and exercises and operational cooperation—aiming to expand bilateral and multilateral activities like Super Garuda Shield to strengthen collective capabilities and promote regional peace. This move underscores decades of cooperation, with both nations reaffirming commitments to mutual respect, sovereignty, and shared interests in stability, while highlighting Indonesia's roles in the Board of Peace and International Stabilization Force for Gaza.

The newly opened Giri Menang City Park in West Lombok has already suffered vandalism and misuse as a urination spot, just a week after its public opening. Damaged benches, obscene graffiti, and unpleasant odours from improper urination have marred the facility, which is set for official inauguration on 17 April during the regency's anniversary. West Lombok's Deputy Regent Nurul Adha expressed regret over the incident, urging the public to preserve public facilities for collective comfort and warning against such destructive acts.

The SiKasep service has officially migrated to the Tapera Mobile application as of 13 April 2026, rendering the previous app obsolete and streamlining access to housing finance for low-income earners (MBR) through the Facility for Liquidity of Housing Finance (FLPP). Users can now download the app, register with their NIK, verify identity via selfie and ID scan, search for properties, apply for mortgages, check subsidies, select banks, and track application progress across five stages independently. BP Tapera, acting as the Government Investment Operator, has disbursed FLPP funds since 2022 but has only absorbed 14.29% of its 350,000-unit target, urging eligible MBR to seize the opportunity for their first home.

The ongoing Middle East conflict poses significant risks to Indonesia's state budget (APBN) by driving up global oil prices beyond the assumed US$70 per barrel, potentially increasing energy subsidies by hundreds of trillions of rupiah and widening the fiscal deficit to nearly 4% of GDP. This vulnerability stems from Indonesia's status as a net oil importer, exacerbating rupiah depreciation, inflation, and household costs, while highlighting the need for urgent reforms in energy diversification, targeted subsidies, tax enhancements, and prudent debt management. As a reminder from a DPR member, proactive policy measures are essential to shift from reactive crisis management to building long-term fiscal resilience amid global uncertainties.

Indonesia is set to buy oil from Russia following discussions between President Prabowo Subianto and President Vladimir Putin, with state-owned energy firm Pertamina preparing to implement the plan in line with government regulations. The collaboration aims to enhance national energy security through oil trade, refinery development, and clean energy technologies amid global market volatility. Pertamina will assess the suitability of Russian crude for its modernised refineries to ensure operational and commercial viability.