Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 April 2026

Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,583 articles

KPK's Response After DPR Secretary-General Indra Iskandar Wins Pre-Trial Hearing

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has expressed respect for the court ruling that partially granted the pre-trial petition of DPR Secretary-General Indra Iskandar, nullifying his suspect status in a corruption case involving the procurement of office facilities worth Rp120 billion. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo stated that the agency will study the legal considerations behind the decision and may continue the investigation if sufficient evidence exists, emphasising that the pre-trial outcome does not end enforcement efforts. The case, which allegedly caused losses of tens of billions of rupiah, involved Indra and six others, with KPK previously delaying his detention to complete documentation on state losses.

KAI Bandara Medan Transports 1 Million Passengers in the First Quarter of 2026

PT Railink, operating as KAI Bandara Medan, reported transporting 1 million passengers on its Srilelawangsa train services in North Sumatra during the first quarter of 2026, marking a 6.21% increase from the 900,000 passengers in the same period of 2025. This growth, supported by a government Public Service Obligation subsidy programme, underscores the rising relevance of rail connectivity to Kualanamu Airport and surrounding areas, with specific rises on the Medan-Kualanamu route (7.75%) and Medan-Binjai-Kualabingai route (5.26%). The company remains optimistic about sustained expansion amid increasing public mobility and enhanced transport linkages in the region.

Unilever Denies Sale of Buavita, Affirms It Remains Company Property

PT Unilever Indonesia Tbk has firmly denied circulating rumours that it is selling its Buavita juice business, with Corporate Secretary Mario Abdi Amrillah stating that the division remains fully owned by the company. The denial comes amid reports of the firm considering divestment to streamline its portfolio and focus on higher-growth segments, though no material events affecting operations or share price have been disclosed. Unilever's shares have weakened by 26.54% year-to-date, highlighting ongoing market pressures on the consumer goods giant.

16 University of Indonesia Law Faculty Students Involved in Alleged Sexual Harassment Group Chat Case, Campus Issues Severe Sanctions!

A scandal at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law has implicated 16 students in an alleged sexual harassment case stemming from a private group chat containing verbal abuse, objectification of women, and inappropriate comments targeting both female students and lecturers. The university has condemned the incident as a serious violation of its core values, academic ethics, and applicable laws, vowing to impose strict sanctions. This event has sparked widespread public outrage and broader discussions on digital communication boundaries, ethics in academia, and the responsibilities of future lawyers.

Subsidence on Dewi Sartika Road in East Jakarta Endangers Drivers, Residents Urge Immediate Repairs

A section of Dewi Sartika Road in East Jakarta has subsided, posing significant risks to motorists, particularly at a sharp bend that creates a blind spot for drivers approaching from Kalibata. Local residents, including Ricky and Franky, have reported the issue worsening over the past week, with incidents involving trucks and minibuses nearly falling into the hole, and they are calling for prompt repairs by the Public Works Department, which has already inspected the site. The problem gained attention after going viral on social media, highlighting ongoing infrastructure maintenance challenges in urban areas that could lead to accidents if not addressed swiftly.

Tangled Utility Cables in Kalideres Drape Over Roofs, Residents Fear House Fires

In Kalideres, West Jakarta, tangled utility cables along Jalan Tanjung Pura hang dangerously low over roads and pile onto residents' rooftops, sparking fears of fire hazards from short circuits or lightning strikes. Locals like Suwatri express anxiety over the cables getting snagged by heavy trucks from nearby factories, a frequent occurrence that has even led to breaks without igniting sparks. Residents criticise the slow response from authorities and utility providers, noting that the issue has persisted for years despite its visibility.

China Suddenly Becomes Investors' Fortress, the New Safe Haven Target

Amid the armed conflict in the Middle East involving Iran and the United States since late February, global markets have experienced widespread sell-offs, but Chinese assets have emerged as a stable safe haven for investors. China's equity and bond markets have shown lower volatility compared to major indices like the S&P 500, supported by strategic energy diversification, substantial oil reserves, and domestic financial liquidity that insulates it from global shocks. This resilience is attracting renewed institutional investment, positioning China as a relative performer in an uncertain geopolitical landscape.

Indonesia's Digital Economy Surpasses 100 Billion USD, UNM Produces Job-Ready Talent Through IEP 3+1 Programme

Indonesia's digital economy is projected to reach nearly 100 billion USD by 2025, establishing the country as Southeast Asia's largest digital market, with long-term forecasts indicating growth to 200-360 billion USD by 2030. In response to the need for 600,000 digital talents annually, Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM) has enhanced its Management and Digital Business programme with the Internship Experience Programme (IEP) 3+1, combining three years of academic study with one year of industry internship to bridge the gap between education and employment. This initiative equips graduates with practical skills in areas like digital marketing and e-commerce, fostering adaptability and direct recruitment opportunities in the booming digital sector.

BMKG: 2026 Dry Season to Be Drier Than 30-Year Average

Indonesia's Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecasted that the 2026 dry season will be drier than the 30-year average, arriving earlier and lasting longer due to an emerging El Niño phenomenon starting in late April to early May. The agency cautions against exaggerated public narratives labelling it as an extreme "Godzilla" event, emphasising that while El Niño will reduce rainfall intensity, Indonesia's tropical climate naturally features dry seasons regardless. BMKG urges serious but measured responses, promoting cross-sector collaboration to mitigate impacts on water supply and agriculture.

Ministry of Health Warns of Godzilla El Niño Phenomenon, Children Must Be Protected

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has alerted the public to heightened health risks from the extreme 'Godzilla' El Niño phenomenon, which is causing prolonged dry seasons, poor air quality, increased forest fires, and the proliferation of vector-borne diseases like dengue and malaria. Officials recommend measures such as limiting outdoor activities, using air purifiers, wearing masks, and practising clean and healthy living habits to mitigate these risks. The Indonesian Paediatric Society urges parents to supervise children closely, keep them indoors during extreme weather, and ensure they receive adequate animal protein nutrition to bolster immunity.

Formerly Won in Pre-Trial, This KPK Suspect Dies in China

Siman Bahar, the Director of PT Loco Montrado and a suspect in a KPK corruption case involving metal anode processing with PT Aneka Tambang, has died while under investigation, reportedly in China. Despite initially winning a pre-trial challenge that invalidated his suspect status due to procedural flaws, the KPK re-designated him as a suspect after correcting the paperwork and seized Rp 100.7 billion in alleged proceeds. The KPK will issue an SP3 to terminate proceedings against him due to his death, but will coordinate with the Attorney General to pursue state losses through civil means.

ChatGPT Subscription Prices in Indonesia: Pro Version Now Cheaper

OpenAI has introduced a new, more affordable ChatGPT Pro subscription tier priced at $100 per month (around Rp 1.7 million), half the cost of the previous Pro plan, targeting users with intensive AI coding needs via enhanced access to the Codex feature. This update expands subscription options to five tiers, including free and Plus versions, and is already available in Indonesia for approximately Rp 1.889.000 monthly. The move aims to bolster competition against rivals like Anthropic's Claude Code, amid booming demand for AI coding tools projected to generate over $2.5 billion annually.

US Predicts Oil Prices to Peak in Coming Weeks

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright has warned that oil prices could reach their peak in the coming weeks due to disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, potentially driving energy costs higher. He emphasised that significant ship traffic through the strait is needed to stabilise prices, and a quick decline is unrealistic, with summer being an aggressive timeline for relief. In response to failed diplomatic efforts, the US is considering military measures in the region and enhancing security for vessels entering and exiting Iranian ports in the Gulf.

JPPI Records 233 Cases of Violence in Educational Environments

The Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI) has documented 233 cases of violence in educational settings over the first quarter of 2026, highlighting a systemic issue rather than isolated incidents, with sexual violence comprising 46% of cases. This alarming trend is exemplified by a recent scandal involving 16 law students at the University of Indonesia accused of sexual harassment in a group chat, prompting JPPI to urge the government to declare a national emergency on educational violence and enforce strict penalties. The data reveals that 33% of perpetrators are educators, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to protect students and safeguard the future of Indonesia's youth.

PLN Claims Coal Stock Secure for 15 Days

PT PLN has assured that the national electricity supply remains secure until April 2026, with the average national Days of Coal Operation (HOP) at 15.90 days, indicating a stable coal supply supported by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. Regional variations show Papua with the highest at 47.95 days and Sulawesi the lowest at 13.12 days, while coal contracts have been increased from 152 million tonnes to 163 million tonnes, ensuring supply through the end of the year via commitments from large and small-scale miners. This development strengthens the reliability of Indonesia's electricity grid amid ongoing energy demands.

BYD Car Park Building Catches Fire, Thick Black Smoke Billows

A fire broke out in a car park building at BYD's industrial complex in Shenzhen, China, on Tuesday morning, affecting an area designated for test and scrapped vehicles, with no casualties reported and the blaze quickly extinguished. Verified videos showed intense flames and dense black smoke rising from the multi-storey structure, prompting a response from firefighters and police. The incident led to a 0.6% drop in BYD's shares, highlighting the unique challenges of extinguishing electric vehicle fires compared to conventional ones.

Hajj Flight Costs Increase by Rp 1.77 Trillion, Minister Seeks DPR Approval

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, M Irfan Yusuf, has requested approval from the DPR's Commission VIII for a Rp 1.77 trillion increase in Hajj flight costs for 1447 Hijriah/2026 CE, driven by proposals from Garuda Indonesia and Saudi Airlines. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed that this additional expense not be passed on to pilgrims, prompting the government to explore alternative funding sources. The ministry is coordinating with the Attorney General's Office to ensure the force majeure status and legality of financing options, with costs sourced from the Hajj Management Fee (BPIH) and state budget (APBN).

Reading Prabowo's Move to Russia

President Prabowo Subianto's recent strategic visit to Moscow, accompanied by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, highlights Indonesia's integration of energy agendas into its core diplomatic efforts amid escalating global rivalries. The trip underscores a strategy of risk diversification rather than a shift in political alliances, as Indonesia maintains active neutrality by engaging with Russia—a key energy supplier and counterweight to Western powers—without severing ties to the US, EU, and OECD partners. This approach addresses the geopolitical weight of energy supplies, which now function as instruments of political stability and international leverage in a polarised world.

Agriculture Minister insists West Sumatra must quickly address disaster-affected farmland

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has urged local governments in West Sumatra to promptly handle agricultural land damaged by hydrometeorological disasters at the end of 2025, emphasising collaboration to utilise aid funds available since January 2026. He highlighted President Prabowo Subianto's instructions to avoid delays that could impact farmers' livelihoods, noting that the central government has allocated Rp455 billion for West Sumatra's agriculture and Rp500 billion for plantations, alongside broader national aid exceeding Rp1 trillion in rice and Rp75 billion for affected provinces. The ministry is also partnering with Public Works to rehabilitate 7,000 hectares of irrigation systems, with all costs covered by the central government, while the deputy governor acknowledged bureaucratic hurdles but committed to expediting aid delivery to communities.

Government Claims Indonesia's Economy is Not in Crisis Amid Global Turmoil: Far from the 1998 Situation

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Airlangga Hartarto, has asserted that the country's economy remains resilient despite global challenges, projecting a 5.11% growth rate for 2025—the second highest among G20 nations after India—and an optimistic 5.3% for the current year. He highlighted a low budget deficit under 3%, strong domestic economy, food and energy security, and rice self-sufficiency achieved under President Prabowo Subianto's administration, with record production and stocks. Tax revenues have surged 14.3% year-on-year to Rp 462.7 trillion by March 2026, underscoring the government's effective fiscal measures to cushion societal impacts.

East Java Provincial Government Implements Gadget Restrictions in High Schools, Vocational Schools, and Special Needs Schools

The East Java Provincial Government has introduced a policy restricting gadget use among students and teachers in high schools (SMA), vocational schools (SMK), and special needs schools (SLB), effective from 13 April 2026, to ensure safe, healthy learning environments and foster character development. This measure addresses risks such as exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, digital dependency, and diminished critical thinking, building on joint ministerial decisions and regulations on digital technology in education and child protection. Pilot tests conducted in early April showed positive engagement from schools and parents, aiming to enhance focus, social interactions, and balanced digital-non-digital activities among students.

Financial Reports Receive Disclaimer Opinion Twice, IDX Locks This Stock

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has suspended trading in shares of PT Anugerah Kagum Karya Utama Tbk (AKKU), a company focused on hotel management, after it received disclaimer opinions on its audited financial statements for two consecutive years ending 31 December 2024 and 2025. This action, effective from 2 April 2026, complies with IDX regulations mandating suspension for repeated disclaimer or adverse audit opinions. The suspension underscores ongoing financial struggles for AKKU, which reported a net loss of Rp27.3 billion in 2025, up from Rp9.1 billion the previous year, with its share price having declined significantly since its 2004 IPO.

Deputy Health Minister: The Importance of Early TB Detection for the Surrounding Environment

Deputy Health Minister Benjamin Paulus Octavianus has stressed the critical need for early tuberculosis (TB) detection not only among patients but also their families and communities to effectively manage the disease. During a working visit to a community health centre in Bandarlampung, he urged health facilities to actively trace close contacts of TB patients to break the chain of transmission and prevent recurring cases. This initiative, supported by the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs and local officials, aims to optimise primary healthcare services in tackling TB outbreaks in the region.

SDN Bunisari Students Complain About Afternoon Classes After Classroom Fenced Off by Heirs

Students at SDN Bunisari in West Bandung Regency are enduring afternoon classes due to a land dispute where heirs have fenced off the rear school buildings, forcing a two-shift schedule that affects 456 pupils and disrupts their learning. The acting head of the local Education Office highlights the psychological impact on students and teachers, condemning the heirs' actions for damaging public education facilities and urging judicial intervention for resolution. This incident underscores the broader implications of unresolved land disputes on essential public services like education in Indonesia.

Accompanying Prabowo's Meeting with Putin, Bahlil Oversees Russian Energy Diplomacy

Indonesian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia accompanied President Prabowo Subianto in a bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, focusing on advancing cooperation in the oil and gas sector to ensure national energy security amid global market dynamics. Discussions covered oil refinery development, oil trade, energy technology utilisation, and clean energy collaborations to support long-term energy diversification. Both leaders emphasised strengthening strategic ties, particularly in economics and energy, with Russia's positive response highlighting new opportunities through Indonesia's BRICS membership for economic stability.

Indonesian Content Creators Admire Technology and Culture of Guangdong's Greater Bay Area

Five Indonesian content creators visited Guangdong Province in southern China from 7 to 11 April, experiencing the harmonious blend of traditional culture and modern technology in the Greater Bay Area encompassing Guangzhou, Dongguan, and Shenzhen. They were particularly impressed by cultural sites like wearing hanfu at the Guangzhou Cultural Centre and purchasing souvenirs at MINISO, as well as cutting-edge innovations such as flying car cockpits, intelligent robots at OPPO headquarters, and drone deliveries in Shenzhen. The visit highlights the region's rapid advancements ahead of China hosting the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in November, with the creators eager to share their experiences to promote global interest in the area.

Purbaya Explains Indonesia's Economic Conditions to US Investors

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa met with major US investors in New York and Washington DC to reassure them about the country's macroeconomic stability and fiscal management strategies. He addressed concerns over perceived fiscal issues, emphasising that government policies are sound and aligned with economic principles, while seeking positive feedback on improving communication with investors. The meetings aimed to dispel doubts and encourage investments, with Purbaya confident that the explanations were well-received and that international rating agencies may have been premature in their negative outlooks.

Indonesia and Russia discuss concrete energy cooperation

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss concrete energy cooperation, focusing on oil refinery development, strengthening oil trade, enhancing energy technology utilisation, and long-term collaboration in clean energy to support diversification. The talks aim to bolster national energy security amid global market pressures, with both leaders emphasising strategic partnerships in energy to ensure supply stability and economic resilience. This engagement, highlighted by Indonesia's BRICS membership, is seen as a key step in navigating geopolitical dynamics and realising mutual economic benefits.

Firm Stance! Bulog Chief Rebukes Traders Reluctant to Handle Requirements for Selling Minyakita

Bulog's CEO, Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, has emphasised that becoming an authorised retailer for the affordable cooking oil Minyakita is straightforward, provided traders obtain a Business Identification Number (NIB), but many are hesitant due to misconceptions about taxes. He clarified that NIB registration is free and essential for official distribution, urging better outreach to dispel misinformation and ensure proper tracking of sales. The Ministry of Trade has issued a circular to local governments to facilitate NIB applications, aiming to accelerate Minyakita's distribution and enhance trader legal compliance.

Pramono to Hold Special Meeting on Plecostomus Fish, Asks All Mayors to Eradicate Them

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung plans to convene a special meeting to address the invasive plecostomus fish, which threatens the city's aquatic ecosystems by preying on local species and damaging river infrastructure. He has urged all mayors in Jakarta to participate in coordinated efforts to eradicate the species, aiming to position the capital as a model for other regions. Recent operations have already captured dozens of the fish in key waterways like Kali Cideng and Kali Ciliwung, highlighting the government's commitment to environmental protection.

Frying Stocks and the Threat of Profit Illusions Amid the Retail Investor Boom

The surge in retail investors in Indonesia has heightened market participation but also increased vulnerability to speculative "frying stocks," which promise quick gains but often lead to sharp declines due to irrational valuations and manipulative practices. Experts like Chief Investment Officer Pandu Sjahrir deem these stocks uninvestable, a view echoed by global indices such as MSCI, which considers market quality and credibility in emerging markets. Data from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) reveals 32 criminal stock manipulation cases involving 151 parties from 2022 to January 2026, underscoring ongoing challenges to market integrity and systemic risks, as seen in the Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) downturns.

Pramono grants Bina Marga authority to propose PJLP recruitment quota

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has authorised the Dinas Bina Marga to propose quotas for recruiting additional Penyedia Jasa Lainnya Perorangan (PJLP) workers to address the shortage of personnel handling pothole repairs across the capital. Currently, the department employs around 750 PJLP staff, which is deemed insufficient for covering five municipalities and one regency, especially during the rainy season when road damage surges and poses safety risks to motorists. Mujiyono, Secretary of Commission A of the DKI Jakarta DPRD, emphasises the need for clear calculations and transparent evaluations to ensure the effectiveness of any staff expansion.

US Military Begins Blockade of Iranian Ports Amid Ceasefire

The United States has initiated a naval blockade of all maritime traffic entering or exiting Iranian ports on Monday, despite an ongoing ceasefire agreement, escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and threatening global fuel prices. President Donald Trump confirmed the move, stating it aims to reopen the strait, lower global petrol prices, and pressure Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions and return to negotiations. Iran's Revolutionary Guard has warned of severe responses to any military approaches, highlighting the fragility of the two-week truce agreed upon last week.

16 UI Law Students Suspected of Harassment Brought Forward, Nearly Attacked by Dozens of Female Students in Open Hearing

An open hearing was held at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law to hold accountable 16 students suspected of sexual harassment, organised by the Student Executive Board in collaboration with the Dean's office. The event saw heightened tensions as initially only two suspects appeared, prompting outrage from dozens of female students who demanded all perpetrators be present, with victims expressing their frustration directly. The hearing proceeded without violence, highlighting issues of accountability and support for victims in campus environments.

Examining Indonesia's Logistics Prospects to the US Following Reciprocal Tariff Policy

The United States' reciprocal tariff policy continues to impact the dynamics of goods shipments from Indonesia, with global logistics firm FedEx noting effects on business decisions. FedEx's Senior Manager Operations, Ida Ayu Eka Restini, explains that tariffs are applied upon entry into the US, creating additional costs at the destination, and emphasises the need for clear visibility and information for customers. Leveraging its US base, FedEx provides early and precise tariff data through a digital system that estimates costs in advance, helping businesses prepare better amid unavoidable global trade tariffs.

What Are the Outcomes of the Five-Hour Meeting Between Prabowo and Putin?

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held a five-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on 13 April 2026, focusing on strengthening strategic cooperation amid global dynamics. Key outcomes include agreements on long-term collaboration in energy and mineral resources, energy security, downstream processing, as well as expansions in education, research, technology, agriculture, and investments in Indonesian industrial development. Prabowo expressed appreciation for Russia's support in Indonesia's BRICS membership and consulted on rapidly changing global geopolitical conditions, underscoring Russia's strategic importance as a veto-holding UN power and BRICS founder.

Protests in Menteng and Monas: Alternative Routes to Take

Protests by online motorcycle taxi drivers are scheduled in Jakarta's Menteng and Monas areas on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, likely causing traffic congestion in the city centre. Authorities recommend avoiding key roads such as Jalan Cik Ditiro, Medan Merdeka Selatan, and surrounding areas, with detailed alternative routes provided from various directions to ensure smoother travel. Over 476 personnel will secure the events, urging motorists to follow traffic directions for safety and efficiency.

Approved by Purbaya, Bulog Receives 2 Percent Interest Subsidy from Himbara Banks to Meet Target of Absorbing 4 Million Tons of Farmers' Rice

The Indonesian government, through Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, has approved a 2 percent interest subsidy for Bulog from Himbara banks to bolster financing for absorbing 4 million tons of unmilled rice equivalent from farmers, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto's policy to strengthen national food reserves. This support, part of a Rp68.6 trillion budget for key commodities including rice, soybeans, and corn, aims to reduce Bulog's operational costs and enhance efficiency in procurement and distribution. As of 13 April 2026, Bulog has absorbed 1.9 million tons (48.7 percent of the target) with stocks at 4.727 million tons, projecting to reach 5 million tons within days.

Less Than a Year in Office, Bali Chief Prosecutor Chatarina Muliana Removed

Chatarina Muliana, who assumed the role of Chief Prosecutor of Bali in October 2025, has been transferred after just six months to the position of Head of the Asset Recovery Centre, amid a large-scale rotation of 53 strategic officials in the Attorney General's Office. Setiawan Budi Cahyono, previously Director IV in the Attorney General for Intelligence Affairs, has been appointed as her replacement, as part of a broader strategic internal reorganisation aimed at optimising performance. The swift change has drawn public attention, given the high expectations for Muliana to address corruption cases in Bali.

Prabowo arrives in Paris to meet Macron and discuss strategic cooperation

President Prabowo Subianto arrived in Paris on Monday night local time following his diplomatic engagements in Moscow, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During his visit to France, Prabowo is scheduled to hold a one-on-one meeting with President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace to enhance strategic cooperation between Indonesia and France across key sectors including education, research, creative economy, climate change mitigation, and sustainable development. This engagement underscores Indonesia's proactive diplomacy in Europe, aiming to bolster bilateral ties, attract investments, and promote global stability and peace.

Moment When Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Meets US Defence Minister Hegseth at the Pentagon

Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin met with his US counterpart Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon on 13 April 2026, where they agreed to elevate bilateral defence relations to a Major Defence Cooperation Partnership (MDCP). The MDCP focuses on three pillars: military modernisation and capacity building, professional military training and education, and operational exercises and cooperation, underpinned by mutual respect and national sovereignty. This agreement aims to expand joint exercises like Super Garuda Shield to enhance collective capabilities and maintain peace, underscoring the growing strategic ties between the two nations.

Meta reportedly developing AI character mimicking Mark Zuckerberg

Meta is reportedly creating an artificial intelligence character modelled on its CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, trained on his communication style, speech patterns, and public statements to offer advice to employees when he is unavailable. The initiative aims to produce a photorealistic 3D animated AI that can manage interactions, aligning with Zuckerberg's personal efforts to develop AI agents for his tasks. This development underscores Meta's push into advanced AI applications for internal operations, potentially enhancing efficiency in decision-making processes.

This is Why Rosan Says the Investment Trend in Indonesia Remains Positive Despite Global Turbulence

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Roeslani has expressed optimism about the country's investment climate, citing a significant surge in the issuance of Business Identification Numbers (NIB) as evidence that business activity continues to thrive amid global geopolitical uncertainties. In the five months from October 2025 to 8 April 2026, 1.8 million new NIBs were issued, surpassing the 1.3 million from the previous 12 months, with a cumulative total of 15.8 million since 2021. This growth underscores sustained domestic and foreign investor interest, bolstered by digital reforms in the licensing system through the integrated Online Single Submission (OSS) platform.

Airlangga: Economic Growth This Year Above 5.3 Percent

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has projected Indonesia's economic growth to exceed 5.3 percent this year, with the first quarter optimistically reaching 5.5 percent, outperforming global estimates of 2.6-3.3 percent from institutions like the IMF, OECD, and World Bank. He attributes this resilience to robust domestic demand from household consumption, investment, and government spending, alongside strong external sector stability, including a 70-month trade surplus and foreign reserves of US$148.2 billion. Key sectors such as agriculture, with nearly 34.7 million tons of rice production, and energy, achieving a 4.84 million kiloliter surplus through the B50 programme, underscore Indonesia's entry into the second quarter of 2026 on solid footing.

US Recruits Gamers as Air Traffic Controllers with Annual Salary of Rp 2.5 Billion

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is launching a recruitment campaign targeting gamers to address a critical shortage of air traffic controllers, highlighting skills like quick thinking and focus honed through gaming. Successful candidates can expect paid training and salaries exceeding $155,000 annually, equivalent to Rp 2.5 billion, amid a current deficit of 3,000 to 3,500 controllers. This initiative aims to add 8,900 new controllers by 2028 to mitigate operational strains caused by retirements, high turnover, and pandemic disruptions.

DPR Secretary General Indra Iskandar Wins Pre-Trial Hearing, KPK Suspect Status Overturned

The South Jakarta District Court has partially granted a pre-trial motion by DPR Secretary General Indra Iskandar, nullifying his suspect status in a corruption case involving the procurement of furnishings for legislators' official residences in the 2020 fiscal year. The court ruled that the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) acted arbitrarily in designating him as a suspect without meeting minimal evidentiary requirements or examining him beforehand. This decision highlights procedural flaws in KPK's investigations and could impact ongoing anti-corruption efforts related to state losses estimated in the tens of billions of rupiah from alleged price markups in a Rp 120 billion project.

Political Parties Allowed to Buy Naming Rights for Bus Stops, Pramono: A Modern City Must Open Itself Up

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has opened the possibility for political parties to purchase naming rights for public transport bus stops in the city, viewing it as a way to align with the openness of a modern global city while boosting local revenue. He emphasised that such naming must not compromise the city's aesthetics or public comfort, with detailed regulations currently being prepared. This commercialisation scheme, which could include brands or parties like Golkar, aims to increase the Regional Original Revenue (PAD) through transparent partnerships.

Airlangga University Professor Outlines Realistic Strategies to Safeguard the State Budget Amid High Oil Prices

Professor Rahma Gafmi from Universitas Airlangga has urged the Indonesian government to shift from short-term fiscal measures to adaptive strategies if geopolitical conflicts persist and oil prices remain elevated, as temporary tools like cash buffers will prove insufficient beyond six months. She proposes reallocating blocked funds to cover surging energy subsidies without increasing debt, alongside tightening regulations on subsidised fuel consumption to control usage effectively. These measures aim to protect fiscal space and act as a natural hedge against rising oil import costs.

Telkom and Media Accelerate Digital Talent through Strengthening AI Ecosystem on Campus

PT Telkom Indonesia, in collaboration with Katadata Indonesia, hosted the Data Unboxed @Campus programme at the University of Udayana in Bali to bolster Indonesia's AI ecosystem, focusing on talent development, innovation, and industry-academia partnerships. The event featured discussions on AI's role in driving economic growth and digital transformation, with Telkom highlighting its AI Centre of Excellence supported by five collaborative pillars to ensure practical implementation across sectors. This initiative underscores Telkom's commitment to enhancing national competitiveness through inclusive AI adoption, providing students with data literacy tools and real-world insights into AI applications.

Purbaya Meets US Investors in New York, Directly Addresses Doubts About Indonesia

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa met with potential investors from major US firms such as HSBC Global Asset Management, BlackRock, and Lazard AM in New York and Washington DC to clarify the country's macroeconomic fundamentals and fiscal strategies. He dispelled concerns arising from negative outlooks by international rating agencies, assuring investors that Indonesia's policies align with sound economic principles and recent data does not yet justify such downgrades. The meetings boosted investor confidence, leading to intentions for investments in Indonesia.