Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 April 2026

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Bahlil: Prabowo and Putin to Collaborate on Trade to Oil Refinery Development

Indonesian Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has revealed that the meeting between President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed bilateral cooperation focused on national interests, including oil refinery development, strengthening oil trade, and enhancing energy technology utilisation. In the long term, Indonesia is opening opportunities for collaboration in clean energy to support energy diversification amid global market volatility. This partnership aims to ensure national energy supply stability and bolster economic resilience against geopolitical challenges, with both leaders emphasising strategic ties in energy sectors and Indonesia's BRICS membership as a catalyst for deeper cooperation.

Woman in North Jakarta Scams Victim in Export-Ready Fish Sale, Causing Rp 1 Billion Loss

Police in North Jakarta have uncovered a fraud and embezzlement case involving the sale of export-ready ribbonfish and other fish species, resulting in a victim losing over Rp 1.07 billion. The suspect, a 57-year-old woman, accepted payments from January to April 2025 but failed to deliver goods commensurate with the funds received, leading to her arrest on 9 April. Charged under Indonesia's Criminal Code with a potential four-year prison sentence, the case highlights vulnerabilities in informal trade transactions at ports like Muara Angke.

Biznet Strengthens Infrastructure, Celebrates Digital Lifestyle through Biznet Festival Surabaya 2026

Biznet, Indonesia's integrated digital infrastructure company, is enhancing its network through strategic expansions, including the activation of undersea fibre optic cables connecting major Java cities and the upcoming Biznet Nusantara Cable System-2 to link Java, Bali, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi, aiming to support the nation's digital transformation and economic growth. In January 2026, the company will increase bandwidth capacity by 30% to up to 500 Mbps in select areas with more affordable pricing to improve accessibility. To engage the community, Biznet is hosting the free Biznet Festival Surabaya 2026, featuring music, creative competitions, and digital experiences to appreciate customers and promote its services in Surabaya, where it has expanded significantly since 2008.

Filing Police Reports Now Possible via Mobile App, with Virtual Consultation Feature

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has launched an online service for filing police reports and lost item declarations through its Super App, enabling citizens to submit complaints digitally without visiting stations. Accompanying this is the Engine Consultation for Police Reports, a real-time virtual system using video calls and live chat to enhance accessibility. This initiative, highlighted by Deputy Chief of Police Komjen Dedi Prasetyo, underscores Polri's commitment to modernising public services through technology, focusing on efficiency, transparency, and restorative justice approaches.

Police Reports and Lost Item Reports Can Now Be Made via Mobile Phone

The Indonesian National Police (Polri) has launched an innovative digital service allowing citizens to file police reports and lost item declarations online through the Super App Polri, as announced by Deputy Chief of Police Komjen Dedi Prasetyo during a coordination meeting. This feature, available on iOS and Android, enables users to submit reports remotely without visiting police stations, supported by real-time consultation tools like video conferencing and live chat for efficient handling. The initiative underscores Polri's commitment to transparent, accountable, and modern public services, enhancing accessibility and integrating technology with improved performance management.

Tempo Responds to NasDem's Protest Over Report on Merger Issue with Gerindra

Tempo's Editor-in-Chief, Setri Yasra, has responded to objections from NasDem MP Martin Manurung regarding a report on a potential merger between NasDem and Gerindra, emphasising respect for all feedback and the importance of involving the Press Council in disputes. Yasra noted that no right of reply or corrections have been received yet, but they would be published promptly if submitted. Manurung criticised the coverage as excessive and opinionated, urging stricter oversight by the Press Council to uphold journalistic ethics and public trust in media as a pillar of democracy.

Tugu Insurance (TUGU) Profit Rises 77% to Rp711 Billion for 2025

PT Asuransi Tugu Pratama Indonesia Tbk (TUGU), a state-owned general insurer under the Pertamina Group, reported a 77% year-on-year increase in net profit to Rp711.06 billion for the full year 2025, driven by strong growth in insurance services revenue and investment income. Key segments such as fire & property, offshore, and aviation contributed nearly 70% of the gross written premium, while total assets reached Rp27.71 trillion and risk-based capital stood at 410.9%, well above regulatory requirements. This performance underscores TUGU's effective portfolio optimisation and market opportunities in Indonesia's financial sector.

Video: BI on 24-Hour Alert to Secure Rupiah Exchange Rate Amid War Effects

Bank Indonesia is maintaining 24-hour vigilance to stabilise the Rupiah's value in response to geopolitical tensions from the US-Israel-Iran conflict, which poses risks of capital outflows from emerging markets and commodity price surges. At the Central Banking Forum 2026, Deputy Senior Governor Destry Damayanti outlined BI's strategies, including optimising monetary operations in spot, NDF, and DNDF markets to ensure market liquidity. This proactive approach aims to bolster Indonesia's economic resilience against global exchange rate volatility while preserving investor confidence.

Biofuel: The Answer to the Fragility of National Fossil Energy

The global rise in oil prices and Middle East conflicts highlight Indonesia's vulnerability to fossil fuel dependency, with domestic production falling short of rising consumption projected to exceed 80 million kilolitres by 2025. President Prabowo Subianto's biodiesel and bioethanol programmes, building on successful mandates from B20 to B40, are poised to save over Rp140 trillion in foreign exchange annually and potentially end solar oil imports by increasing blends to B50. Leveraging Indonesia's position as the world's largest palm oil producer, these initiatives not only enhance energy security but also support over 16 million jobs in the palm sector and promote economic equity for farmers.

Hajj Flight Costs Rise by Rp1.77 Trillion, Ministry of Hajj Seeks DPR Approval

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has reported a Rp1.77 trillion increase in Hajj flight costs for 2026, rising from Rp6.69 trillion to Rp8.46 trillion, primarily due to higher aviation fuel prices and currency fluctuations. Proposals from Garuda Indonesia and Saudi Airlines account for the bulk of this surge, but President Prabowo Subianto has assured that the additional expenses will not be passed on to pilgrims. The ministry is seeking approval from the DPR's Commission VIII to cover the costs through the Hajj Organisational Fee (BPIH) as per relevant legislation, while coordinating with the Attorney General's Office on funding legality.

Chinese Tanker Breaches US Blockade in Strait of Hormuz

A Chinese tanker under US sanctions has successfully navigated the US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, becoming the first vessel to exit the Gulf since the restrictions began, according to Reuters. The Rich Starry, owned by Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Co Ltd, loaded its cargo in the UAE and had previously dealt with Iran. Another sanctioned tanker, Murlikishan, is approaching the strait and is expected to load Iraqi crude oil on 16 April, highlighting ongoing tensions in global energy trade routes.

Safeguarding Environmental Quality in Weda Bay, IWIP Ensures Measured Management of FABA

PT Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) is committed to preserving environmental quality in the Weda Bay industrial area in Central Halmahera, North Maluku, through the measured management of fly ash (FABA) using advanced technologies like Electrostatic Precipitators to control emissions. The company collects and stores bottom ash in dedicated facilities, monitors air quality regularly, and complies with national regulations, while repurposing FABA as an alternative material for internal construction projects such as employee sports facilities and pedestrian paths. This approach underscores IWIP's dedication to sustainable industrial operations that minimise environmental impacts and promote responsible resource utilisation.

List of best-selling car brands throughout Q1 2026: China begins to overtake

In the first quarter of 2026, Japan's automotive brands continued to dominate Indonesia's passenger car market, with Toyota leading sales at 64,416 units and a 30.4% market share, followed by Daihatsu and Suzuki. However, Chinese manufacturers are gaining ground, particularly in the electric vehicle segment, as evidenced by BYD entering the top six with 10,265 units and Jaecoo securing seventh place just five months after market entry. This shift signals intensifying competition and a potential transformation in Indonesia's automotive landscape, driven by growing interest in electrification.

Police Examine Care SOP Following Near Baby Swap Incident at Bandung's RSHS

Bandung police are investigating the standard operating procedures for newborn care at Rumah Sakit Hasan Sadikin (RSHS) after a mother reported her baby was nearly swapped in the NICU. The incident, which occurred during treatment for jaundice, prompted the mother to voice her frustration on TikTok, highlighting concerns over staff negligence. No formal complaint has been filed yet, but the police continue their probe to ensure patient safety protocols are followed.

NasDem Elite on Tempo Cover Edition Merger: Do Not Belittle

NasDem deputy chairman Saan Mustopa responded to Tempo magazine's latest cover addressing rumours of a merger between Gerindra and NasDem parties, emphasising the need for respectful criticism without belittling public figures. He acknowledged the merger proposal from President Prabowo Subianto to Surya Paloh but noted it has not been deeply discussed internally due to ideological differences and a desire to maintain NasDem's position. Despite lacking cabinet positions, NasDem remains fully supportive of the government.

Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education affirms no tolerance for perpetrators of sexual harassment

Wakil Menteri Pendidikan Dasar dan Menengah Fajar Riza Ul Haq has firmly stated that there will be no tolerance for sexual harassment or bullying in schools across Indonesia, particularly cases leading to victims' deaths, amid ongoing challenges in creating safe educational environments. The government has issued Permendikdasmen Number 6 of 2026 to enforce school cultures that are safe and comfortable, emphasising improved communication between parents, schools, and committees to resolve issues without resorting to legal action. In NTB, task forces have been established in schools to handle complaints on sexual violence, with the provincial government urging integrated efforts involving the Ministry of Religious Affairs and police to prevent future incidents, including those in pesantren.

Swift Leadership Change at Bali Attorney General's Office: Intelligence Figures Step In at Critical Time

The Attorney General's Office in Bali has undergone a rapid leadership reshuffle, with Setiawan Budi Cahyono appointed as the new Head (Kajati) and I Made Sudarmawan as Deputy Head (Wakajati), both bringing extensive backgrounds in intelligence and handling strategic cases. This move replaces officials who had recently taken their posts and is seen as an effort to bolster comprehensive oversight amid complex issues in Bali, including land mafia allegations, investment disputes, and strategic projects. The appointments, part of organisational refreshment, signal heightened priority on structured, data-driven law enforcement in the region.

Aboe Bakar of PKS Complies with MKD Summons Regarding Allegations of Ulama Involved in Drugs

Habib Aboe Bakar Alhabsyi, a PKS member of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission III, attended a summons by the House's Honour Council (MKD) on Tuesday to address his controversial statements implicating ulama and pesantren in Madura in drug-related activities. The examination follows public outcry over his remarks, with MKD confirming the invitation was issued due to widespread media coverage and societal concern. This incident highlights tensions within Indonesian politics regarding sensitive accusations against religious figures and institutions.

Wife of Spanish Prime Minister Formally Charged with Corruption

Begona Gomez, the wife of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, has been formally charged with corruption following a years-long criminal investigation, focusing on allegations of embezzlement, influence peddling, and misuse of public resources during her role at the Complutense University of Madrid. The charges, which Gomez and Sanchez deny, stem from complaints by right-wing anti-corruption groups and add to a series of scandals involving Sanchez's family and former allies, intensifying pressure on his minority coalition government amid calls for his resignation. This case highlights ongoing political tensions in Spain, with opposition parties accusing the government of vulnerability to corruption probes.

Attorney General's Office Transfers 65 District Prosecutors, Including Karo District Prosecutor

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has transferred 65 district prosecutors (Kajari) across Indonesia as part of routine personnel rotations, including promotions and demotions, as announced by the Head of the Legal Information Centre, Anang Supriatna. The transfers are outlined in a decree dated 13 April 2026 and signed by the Deputy Attorney General for Supervision on behalf of the Attorney General. Notable changes include the diagonal transfer of Karo's previous prosecutor, Danke Rajagukguk, to a functional position, with Edmond Novvery Purba taking over, and Yadyn's appointment as Jember's prosecutor from a senior investigation role.

Battling wildfires on a remote and quiet frontier of Natuna

In late March and early April, Natuna District in Riau Islands Province faced widespread wildfires exacerbated by El Niño-induced dry conditions, scorching hundreds of hectares and severely impacting air quality and public health. Local firefighters, hampered by remote terrain and limited resources, initially struggled to contain the blazes, prompting the district government to declare an emergency and seek central assistance. The swift deployment of BNPB helicopters for water bombing and weather modification efforts, alongside coordinated ground operations, successfully subdued the fires, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced preventive measures against climate-driven disasters in Indonesia's vulnerable regions.

20 Agglomerations Prioritised for Waste-to-Energy Processing, Government Accelerates Waste Management

Indonesia's Minister of Environment and Forestry, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, has designated 20 urban agglomerations across 47 districts and cities as priority areas for investment in Waste-to-Energy Electricity (PSEL) projects, following directives from President Prabowo Subianto to focus on regions generating over 1,000 tonnes of waste daily. Of these, four agglomerations are fully prepared, with the remaining 16 in the process of completion, all meeting the initial criteria outlined in Presidential Regulation No. 109. Meanwhile, seven other agglomerations producing 500-1,000 tonnes daily have received recommendation letters but do not qualify for full PSEL status due to the volume threshold, highlighting the government's push towards sustainable waste management and energy production.

Danantara prioritises proven technologies for Waste-to-Energy Power

The CEO of BPI Danantara, Rosan Roeslani, has stated that the agency will prioritise proven waste-to-energy (PSEL) technologies that have been successfully implemented worldwide, while remaining open to other innovations. The government plans to focus investments on 20 agglomeration areas across 47 districts/cities generating over 1,000 tonnes of waste daily, as directed by President Prabowo Subianto, with equipment potentially sourced from countries like Japan, Korea, the Netherlands, China, and domestically. This initiative aims to address Indonesia's significant waste management challenges through sustainable energy production, aligning with national investment and environmental policies.

From oil shock to global financial market shift

The reemergence of high oil prices due to the Iran war and Middle East conflicts has heightened inflation risks, prompting central banks worldwide, including the US Federal Reserve, to maintain elevated interest rates and tighten financial conditions in both advanced and emerging economies. In Indonesia, this has led to rupiah depreciation, significant foreign outflows from equities and bonds totalling Rp 57.9 trillion, and a shift towards safer assets like Bank Indonesia securities, exacerbated by a negative credit rating outlook revision. Looking ahead, the trajectory of global markets, particularly for emerging economies like Indonesia, will depend on geopolitical de-escalation, energy price stabilisation, and central bank responses, potentially allowing capital rotation back if conditions improve.

Defence Ministry assures US aircraft flight permits not included in MDCP agreement

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has clarified that the US request for overflight clearance is not part of the recently signed Major Defense Cooperation Partnership (MDCP) agreement, emphasising that such permissions are still under consideration while prioritising national sovereignty and interests. The MDCP focuses on enhancing defence technology, operational readiness, military education, and personnel ties between the two nations, in line with Indonesia's active and independent foreign policy. This statement addresses circulating misinformation about unrestricted US airspace access for emergency operations, crisis management, and joint exercises.

Dino: "Middle powers" influence the direction of global war and peace

Dino Patti Djalal, founder of the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI), has highlighted the growing influence of middle power nations in shaping global conflicts, peace, and the future world order amid shifting international dynamics no longer dominated by superpowers. He cited examples such as the US-Iran tensions and Saudi Arabia's restrained role, noting that groups like BRICS surpass the G7 in GDP and that defence budgets of countries like South Korea, Saudi Arabia, and India exceed some European nations. Dino emphasised emerging cooperation among middle powers, urging Indonesia to formulate strategies to position itself effectively in this evolving landscape.

Dry Season Predicted to Be Longer, These Things Need Attention

The Indonesian Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) forecasts a longer and drier dry season across most regions this year, peaking in August 2026, influenced by a likely weak to moderate El Niño event in the second half of the year. To mitigate impacts, authorities recommend water conservation, rainwater harvesting, avoiding land burning, and health precautions amid rising dust pollution and extreme heat. The government, through the Ministry of Forestry in collaboration with BMKG, is implementing peatland rewetting via cloud seeding to prevent fires and maintain land moisture, underscoring proactive measures against climate variability.

Dozens of Online Motorbike Taxi Drivers Protest at Saiful Mujani's Office

Dozens of online motorbike taxi drivers from the Indonesian Online Motorbike Taxi Association (O2) staged a protest outside the Saiful Mujani Research and Consulting (SMRC) office in Central Jakarta, accusing pollster Saiful Mujani of sedition for urging the ousting of President Prabowo Subianto. The demonstrators, hailing from Bekasi, Karawang, and Jakarta, demanded an apology from Saiful and police investigation into his provocative statements made during a halal bihalal event, claiming they insulted the electorate's choice and aimed to incite chaos. Saiful denied any seditious intent, framing his remarks as legitimate political participation, while the Cabinet Secretary indicated that President Prabowo remains focused on strategic national matters.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Affirms that Information on Paid LPG Base Registration is a Hoax

Pertamina Patra Niaga has clarified that circulating social media claims requiring payment for registering as an LPG base or sub-base distributor, particularly for subsidised 3 kg LPG, are false and misleading hoaxes. The company emphasises that the 3 kg LPG is a government-subsidised product intended for underprivileged communities, distributed via a quota system to ensure it reaches eligible recipients, and registration is entirely free. Authorities urge the public to verify information through official channels to avoid scams impersonating the company.

BPJPH Holds Training on Competency Development Needs Analysis

The Halal Product Assurance Organising Agency (BPJPH) has conducted training on Competency Development Needs Analysis (AKPK) for its civil servants to enhance organisational effectiveness in delivering halal certification services. Head Ahmad Haikal Hasan emphasised the importance of targeted competency development to address real organisational needs, particularly as mandatory halal certification comes into full effect in October 2026. This initiative aims to identify skill gaps, strengthen talent management, and build a competitive workforce of halal experts to support Indonesia's national halal ecosystem.

Apindo: Only 36 Percent of Workers Receive Wages in Accordance with Regulations

The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) has criticised the minimum wage policy for its ineffectiveness in improving workers' welfare, noting that compliance remains low with only 36 percent of employees receiving pay at or above the minimum threshold. Despite an average annual increase of 7-8 percent in minimum wages over the past decade, labour productivity has grown by just 2 percent, creating a gap that burdens businesses without significantly enhancing employee prosperity. Apindo calls for reforms in labour policies to prioritise implementation, regulatory certainty, and a balance between worker protection and business sustainability to foster job creation.

Subsidy Housing Fund Circulation in West Java Reaches Rp 8 Trillion, Highest in Indonesia

West Java leads Indonesia in subsidised housing fund distribution, with over Rp 8 trillion circulated, highlighting strong public demand for affordable housing programmes. The launch of the 2026 Self-Assisted Housing Stimulus Assistance (BSPS) programme in the province involves key stakeholders and aims to repair 1,000 homes locally, with national targets increasing to 400,000 units this year. Officials emphasise the role of streamlined financing options like KUR Perumahan to support SMEs and reduce reliance on informal loans.

US Caught Off Guard! Chinese Tanker Successfully Breaches Hormuz Strait Blockade

A Chinese tanker under US sanctions, the Rich Starry, has successfully navigated the US-enforced blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, marking the first vessel to exit the Gulf since the restrictions began amid escalating military tensions following US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran. Owned by Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Co Ltd, the medium-range tanker was carrying 250,000 barrels of methanol loaded in the UAE, highlighting China's involvement in evading sanctions related to trade with Iran. This breach, alongside another sanctioned vessel heading towards the strait, underscores the challenges in enforcing blockades and potential diplomatic repercussions in global energy trade routes.

Energy Emergency Drives Up LPG Prices, This Outdated Fuel Suddenly Makes a Comeback

Amid a global energy crisis triggered by geopolitical tensions, India has revived the use of kerosene, an outdated fuel, through its Public Distribution System to ensure access for vulnerable households facing disruptions in LNG and other supplies. This temporary 60-day policy, covering 21 states, relaxes storage and distribution rules for state-owned oil companies while limiting kerosene to cooking and lighting needs only. The move highlights the drastic decline in kerosene production and consumption over the past decade but underscores its role as an emergency alternative amid threats to key supply routes like the Strait of Hormuz.

Weak Domestic Sentiment Leads to Slight Rupiah Decline to Rp 17,130, IHSG Strengthens to 7,598

The rupiah weakened slightly by 25 points or 0.15% to Rp 17,130 per US dollar on Tuesday morning, driven by weak domestic sentiment including concerns over budget deficits, downgraded economic growth outlook, declining foreign reserves, and shrinking trade surplus. Despite these pressures, with the state budget deficit surging to Rp 240.1 trillion in March and foreign reserves dropping to $148.2 billion, the currency may strengthen amid recovering global market sentiment and falling oil prices below $100 per barrel. Analysts predict the rupiah to trade between Rp 17,050 and Rp 17,150, buoyed by hopes for continued US-Iran peace negotiations.

IWIP Manages FABA in a Measured Manner to Preserve Environmental Quality

PT Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) is committed to maintaining environmental quality in the Weda Bay industrial area by implementing measured technologies and procedures for managing fly ash and bottom ash (FABA) from coal-fired power plants. The company employs electrostatic precipitators to capture fly ash efficiently and stores bottom ash in dedicated facilities to prevent dispersion, while conducting regular air quality monitoring to comply with national regulations. Furthermore, IWIP repurposes FABA as alternative raw materials for internal construction projects, promoting sustainable industrial operations and responsible environmental stewardship.

Kepri Selected as Research Location for Seskoau Student Officers

The Indonesian Air Force Command and Staff College (Seskoau) has chosen Riau Islands Province (Kepri) as the site for its 2026 student officers' research fieldwork, citing the region's excellent airspace potential and strategic border location for enhancing air management and national defence. Commander Marshal Junior TNI Jorry S Koloay emphasised that the initiative will gather valid data to strengthen airspace governance, while also boosting local tourism and economy. Acting Assistant for Government and Public Welfare Andi Agung highlighted Kepri's maritime-based geography, bordering Singapore, Malaysia, and Cambodia, and its opportunities in investment, maritime sectors, and trade checkpoints.

Meta Boss Mark Zuckerberg Becomes an AI: His Clone Can Chat with Employees

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is developing an AI clone of himself, trained on his communication style and thought patterns, to handle tasks and interact with employees as if it were the real leader. This initiative is part of Meta's broader push towards creating advanced 3D AI characters for real-time interactions, building on previous tools like the AI Studio launched in 2024 that allows creators to make digital twins. The project aims to enhance employee connectivity and represents a step towards more human-like AI, potentially including AI-based bot profiles on Facebook and Instagram.

Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VII Pushes for Balanced Regulation of E-Cigarettes

Lamhot Sinaga, Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VII, urges the government to formulate balanced regulations for the e-cigarette industry that protect public health while ensuring economic sustainability and job preservation. He highlights the sector's rapid growth, including its contribution to excise revenues rising from Rp98.87 billion in 2018 to Rp2.84 trillion in 2025, and export values surging to US$518.27 million in 2025, employing around 100,000 workers. Sinaga advocates for proportional, data-based oversight through enhanced monitoring, consumer education, and quality standards rather than outright bans, citing existing frameworks like Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024 and national standards for heated tobacco and e-liquid products.

Preserving Culture, Banyuwangi Batik Centre Now Open in the Heart of the City

The Banyuwangi Batik Centre has opened in central Banyuwangi, offering authentic local batik fabrics and ready-to-wear fashion items featuring traditional motifs such as Gadjah Oling and Kangkung Setingkes. Deputy Regent Mujiono highlighted the facility as a symbol of the local government's commitment to cultural preservation and improving the welfare of batik artisans, supported by over a decade of programmes including workshops, fashion events, digital marketing, and vocational education. The centre also includes a co-working space for education and creative activities, with all products curated to reflect Banyuwangi's cultural philosophy and promoted via digital platforms.

Tourism Minister urges destination managers to maintain amenity and facility standards

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana has called on destination managers and local governments to uphold standards for amenities and public facilities to ensure tourist comfort and safety. She emphasised the importance of cleanliness, optimal services, and compliance with official licensing regulations under Ministerial Regulation No. 6 of 2025, while promoting operational standards, security measures, and sustainable management practices. Intensive oversight, including CHSE protocols and feedback from tourists, is being implemented in high-traffic areas like Greater Bandung, Greater Bogor, and Pangandaran to enhance service quality and address complaints promptly.

History of Party Mergers Amid NasDem-Gerindra Political Bloc Issues

The discourse on merging NasDem and Gerindra parties signals the potential emergence of a new political bloc in Indonesia, with NasDem elites clarifying it as a non-transactional political block rather than a formal merger. Drawing historical parallels, the article recounts Sukarno's Front Nasional (Nasakom) formed in 1959 to unite nationalist, religious, and communist elements, which ultimately failed due to power struggles leading to the rise of Sekber Golkar. It also details the 1973 party fusions under the New Order regime, consolidating nine parties into PPP and PDI to bolster Golkar's dominance and political stability through ideological control.

Airlangga states Indonesia's economy remains resilient amid global challenges

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto has highlighted Indonesia's economic resilience despite global pressures, projecting growth of 5.11 per cent for 2025, which ranks among the highest in the G20. This strength is supported by robust domestic demand, including household consumption contributing 54 per cent to GDP, controlled inflation, a 70-month trade surplus, and expanding manufacturing sector. The government is also advancing energy independence through initiatives like the B50 programme, underscoring Indonesia's stable economic foundation heading into 2026.

Antam Targets Gold Production from Pongkor Mine at 935 kg in 2026

PT Aneka Tambang Tbk (Antam) has set a target of 935 kilograms of gold production from its Pongkor mine for 2026, an increase from the 743 kilograms achieved in 2025, in line with the approved Work Plan and Budget by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. The company also aims to produce 16 million wet metric tons of nickel ore and 4.6 million wet metric tons of bauxite, reflecting efforts to maintain production stability and support national downstreaming initiatives. Antam is advancing integrated downstreaming for nickel, focusing on electric vehicle battery ecosystems from mining to battery cell development.

Indonesia's Bulog eyes export opportunity from Malaysia rice request

Indonesia's state logistics agency Bulog is exploring a potential rice export deal with Malaysia following a request for at least 200,000 tons, as announced by its President Director Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani. This opportunity arises amid strong domestic rice absorption progress, with 48.7 percent of the 4 million-ton target already met, and Bulog's stocks at 4.7 million tons, projected to reach 5 million soon. The development could bolster Indonesia's global rice market position and enhance the value of its national reserves through beneficial bilateral cooperation.

Prabowo Presents Miniature of Borobudur Temple to Putin

During a bilateral meeting in the Kremlin on 13 April 2026, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin exchanged gifts, with Prabowo offering a batik-patterned vase and a miniature of Borobudur Temple as symbols of Indonesia's cultural heritage. The five-hour discussions resulted in agreements on long-term cooperation in energy and mineral resources, including oil and gas energy security and downstream processing, alongside commitments to expand partnerships in education, technology research, agriculture, and industrial investments. This partnership underscores Russia's strategic global position as a UN veto power and BRICS founder, enhancing Indonesia's long-term development amid evolving international dynamics.

Sexual Harassment of Students: How to Address It?

A recent scandal at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law involving 16 students suspected of sexual harassment in a group chat has highlighted the irony of future legal professionals engaging in such misconduct, tarnishing the institution's reputation. The article critiques the slow institutional responses and cover-ups in universities, exacerbated by social constructions of masculinity and weak legal systems, while advocating for transparent investigations, victim support, and stronger enforcement of the Sexual Violence Crimes Law (UU TPKS). It emphasises the need for moral courage, gender equality education, and robust policies to eradicate sexual violence from campuses and foster a safe educational environment.

JCI Surges 2.14% to 7,660 in First Session, Infrastructure and Industrial Sectors Provide Support

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) closed strongly higher in the first trading session on Tuesday, gaining 160.57 points or 2.14% to reach 7,660.76, driven by robust performances in the infrastructure and industrial sectors. Trading activity was high with a volume of 28.67 billion shares and a transaction value of Rp13.60 trillion, reflecting strong market participation amid positive global sentiments. This surge signals optimism for Asian markets, though the cyclical sector saw a slight decline.

JCI First Session Surges 2.14%, Analysts Predict It Will Soar to 7,700

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) rose significantly by 2.14% or 160.56 points to 7,660 in the first trading session on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, with trading value reaching Rp13.49 trillion. All sectors recorded positive performance except for cyclical consumer goods, which fell 1.10%, while infrastructure led the gains at 4.86%. Analysts from Phintraco Sekuritas forecast further strengthening to 7,675-7,700 in the second session, highlighting top performers like Barito Pacific (BRPT) up 10.05% and Dian Swastatika Sentosa (DSSA) up 7.59%.

JPPI Condemns UI Student Harassment: Ironic Incident at Faculty of Law

The Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI) has strongly condemned the alleged sexual harassment in a student chat group at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law, describing it as a serious failure in fostering a safe academic culture, especially ironic given the faculty's focus on law. JPPI highlighted broader systemic issues, noting 233 violence cases in education from January to March 2026, with sexual violence comprising 46% and perpetrators often from within the education system itself. In response, JPPI urges the relevant ministries to declare a national emergency, conduct protection audits, and enforce strict actions to prevent recurrence and safeguard students' rights.