Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 April 2026

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Antam Gold Price Rises Rp 45,000 per Gram, Investment Opportunity Amid Global Turmoil

The price of Antam gold has increased by Rp 45,000 to Rp 2,863,000 per gram, with the buyback price also rising to Rp 2,639,000 per gram, as monitored on Tuesday. This uptick occurs against a backdrop of global volatility, presenting a potential investment avenue for those seeking stability in precious metals. Transactions are subject to taxes under Ministry of Finance Regulation No. 34/PMK.10/2017, including a 1.5% income tax for buybacks over Rp 10 million for NPWP holders, and 3% for non-holders.

US-Iran Peace Prospects Cause Oil Prices to Plunge Below US$100

Global oil prices fell sharply on Tuesday morning following signals of potential diplomatic progress between the United States and Iran, easing fears of supply disruptions after a previous military escalation involving a US blockade of Iranian ports. Brent crude dropped to US$97.34 per barrel, down 2.03%, while WTI settled at US$96.80 per barrel, a 2.30% decline, though prices remain elevated due to lingering geopolitical risks in the vital Strait of Hormuz. OPEC's downward revision of global demand forecasts and warnings against energy hoarding further underscore the volatile market dynamics influenced by international tensions.

UI Student Body to Accompany Victims in Filing Report to Sexual Violence Task Force

The University of Indonesia's Student Executive Body (BEM UI) will support victims of alleged sexual violence in filing an official report to the university's Sexual Violence Prevention and Handling Task Force on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, following suspicions against 16 law faculty students. BEM UI Chair Yatalathof Ma'shun Imawan emphasised the alliance's rejection of impunity, demanding strict action from the faculty dean and rectorate to ensure transparent processing and severe sanctions against all perpetrators. The group plans to hold a press conference later that day, underscoring the need for campuses to be safe spaces free from sexual predators.

UI Investigates Allegations of Verbal Harassment Involving Several Students at FHUI

Universitas Indonesia (UI) is treating seriously reports of alleged verbal sexual harassment among students at its Faculty of Law (FHUI), emphasising that such acts violate core university values and applicable laws. The university's Sexual Violence Prevention and Handling Task Force (Satgas PPKS) is conducting a victim-centred investigation, including verification and evidence gathering, while the FHUI Student Representative Council has already revoked active membership status for the implicated students. UI commits to imposing appropriate sanctions if violations are confirmed and strengthening policies to prevent sexual violence, ensuring a safe and just campus environment.

Indonesia and Russia deepen ties in cordial Prabowo-Putin meeting

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a cordial meeting in Moscow, where they discussed strategic issues and agreed to strengthen long-term cooperation in energy, mineral resources, education, research, technology, agriculture, and investment. The leaders emphasised enhancing bilateral ties in sectors like oil and gas security and Indonesia's industrial development, building on their previous encounters over the past year. With diplomatic relations spanning 76 years, this meeting underscores Russia's global strategic importance and the mutual respect that has defined Indonesia-Russia relations.

America or China: Who Will Dominate the Future Economy?

In the midst of global economic uncertainty, the rivalry between the United States and China highlights contrasting approaches to economic management, with the US relying on market-driven capitalism and financial sector dominance, while China emphasises active government intervention for long-term planning. Despite America's mounting national debt exceeding 38.8 trillion USD by early 2026 and rising interest burdens, its innovation ecosystem and the dollar's reserve currency status provide significant advantages. China's consistent, election-free policy execution positions it as a formidable contender in shaping the global economic future.

All Currencies Weaken Against the Dollar, It Would Be Odd If the Rupiah Strengthens Alone

The Indonesian rupiah has weakened to above Rp17,000 per US dollar amid a global strengthening of the dollar driven by Middle East conflicts, leading to risk-off sentiment among investors who are offloading emerging market assets. Bank Indonesia officials note that the rupiah's depreciation is measured and less volatile compared to peers like the Indian rupee and Turkish lira, emphasising the need for collaborative efforts to manage volatility. Economists recommend reducing dollar dependency through expanded currency swap agreements and tightening spot market regulations to mitigate pressures.

Attorney General Rotates Heads of High Prosecutor's Offices from North Sumatra to East Java; Here Are the 14 Names Mutated

Attorney General ST Burhanuddin has conducted a rotation and mutation of 14 Heads of High Prosecutor's Offices (Kajati), as outlined in a decision dated 13 April 2026. This includes the new appointment of Muhibuddin as Kajati for North Sumatra, replacing Harli Siregar, and Sila Haholongan as Kajati for South Sulawesi, succeeding Didik Farkhan Alisyahdi. The move, confirmed by the Head of the Public Relations and Legal Information Centre, aims to ensure effective leadership across regional prosecutorial bodies.

Nurturing the future of sasi, the guardian of the Bird's Head seascape

A group of women from Raja Ampat in Southwest Papua, known as 'mama', travelled thousands of kilometres to Bali to participate in a five-day programme with the Nusantara Nature Conservation Foundation (YKAN), aimed at ensuring the sustainability of sasi, a traditional customary rule that prohibits the exploitation of natural resources in marine and terrestrial areas for designated periods to preserve ecosystems. Sasi allows communities to harvest resources non-destructively after the restriction period, serving as a vital mechanism for intergenerational coastal livelihoods amid global crises. This cross-generational exchange highlights the role of indigenous women in safeguarding the Bird's Head seascape, promoting environmental conservation through cultural practices.

Government Accelerates Construction of Subsidised Flats in Cities, Developers Warn of This Issue

The Indonesian government is intensifying the construction of subsidised rental flats in urban areas to address housing needs for low-income and middle-class residents amid high land prices and limited space. Real Estate Indonesia (REI) Chairman Joko Suranto highlights the persistent housing backlog of 15.2 million units, mostly in cities, and stresses the need for clean land titles, price caps per square metre, reliable project delivery, and clear off-taker mechanisms like Tapera to ensure programme effectiveness. He urges an integrated policy approach to provide certainty for all stakeholders, including developers, banks, and beneficiaries.

Andrie Yunus Requests to Join as Interested Party in Challenge to Military Judiciary Law at Constitutional Court

Andrie Yunus, a victim of an acid attack allegedly perpetrated by Indonesian military personnel, has applied to participate as an interested party in a Constitutional Court case challenging the constitutionality of the 1997 Military Judiciary Law. The application highlights how the law's ambiguous phrasing allows military courts to handle general criminal cases involving soldiers, potentially undermining civilian supremacy, legal equality, and access to justice for victims. This move seeks to reform the security sector by ensuring that military personnel committing common crimes are tried in independent civilian courts, aligning with Indonesia's constitutional principles.

Indonesian Handicraft Exhibition Boosts SME Exports to Japan

The third Indonesian Handicraft Exhibition will take place on 5-6 September 2026 at Tokyo Dome, following its success in 2025, featuring 24 SMEs showcasing high-value traditional crafts such as batik, woven fabrics, natural material products, and artworks. Organised to promote Indonesian culture and expand international market access, the event offers low deposit fees of Rp1 million to encourage broader SME participation, with expectations of 500,000 visitors and increased sales transactions. This initiative underscores Japan's strong interest in Indonesian crafts and aims to strengthen their position in the Japanese market, fostering export opportunities for the creative industry.

KPK Seizes 1 Million Dollars Allegedly from Yaqut for Hajj Special Committee

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized US$1 million that was allegedly prepared by Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, during his tenure as Minister of Religious Affairs, for the 2024 Hajj Special Investigation Committee of the Indonesian House of Representatives. The funds were confiscated from an intermediary with the initials ZA before they could be distributed to the committee members. KPK investigators will further probe the alleged flow of money to uncover additional details in this corruption case.

Indonesia-Russia cooperation shows rapid progress: President Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto highlighted the rapid progress in Indonesia-Russia cooperation during a bilateral meeting with Vladimir Putin in Moscow, noting productive discussions across nearly all agreed sectors. While most areas have advanced significantly, Prabowo committed to personally accelerating a few lagging aspects. Putin emphasised expanding ties in strategic fields like energy, space, agriculture, and trade, which has grown by 12 percent, underscoring the strengthening bilateral relations.

Health Department: Illegal Drugs Threaten Not Only Physical Health but Also Psychosocial Well-being

The South Sulawesi Health Department has warned that the circulation and misuse of illegal drugs pose a serious threat to both physical and psychosocial health, particularly among students and productive-age individuals, with cases involving excessive consumption leading to confusion, hallucinations, and even death. Specific drugs like Trihexyphenidyl are being abused without medical indication, resulting in addiction, behavioural disorders, and criminal acts such as theft among addicted students. The department is intensifying surveillance on drug distribution, urging public reporting of illegal activities, and emphasising a collaborative effort across sectors to protect the youth and support Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045.

Indonesia Has LPG Replacement Project, Here's the Latest Update

Indonesia's mining holding MIND ID has revealed the latest developments in its strategic project to convert low-calorie coal into dimethyl ether (DME) as an alternative to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), aiming to reduce the country's high reliance on LPG imports and bolster national energy security. PT Bukit Asam Tbk is leading the initiative, allocating low-calorie coal reserves and industrial zones, with plans to process 6.9 million tonnes of coal annually to produce 1 million tonnes of DME in partnership with Pertamina as the off-taker. Additionally, PTBA is advancing a coal-to-synthetic natural gas (SNG) project in collaboration with PGN, targeting production of 240 BBTUD syngas from 9 million tonnes of coal to supply gas needs in South Sumatra and West Java, underscoring the government's push for energy independence.

Husband of Pekalongan Regent Suspected of Receiving Funds, KPK to Investigate

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) suspects Mukhtaruddin Ashraff Abu, husband of the inactive Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq, of receiving illicit funds in a corruption case involving procurement of goods and services. Investigators will trace the flow of money to family members, amid allegations that Fadia established a family company, PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya, which dominated outsourcing contracts worth Rp46 billion from 2023 to 2026, with around Rp19 billion allegedly diverted back to the family. This case highlights ongoing efforts to combat nepotism and corruption in local government procurement processes.

Attorney General's Office Raids Suspect's Home in Petral Case, Seizes Documents and Electronic Items

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) conducted a raid on Thursday night, 9 April 2026, at the home of a suspect in the alleged corruption case involving crude oil procurement at Pertamina Energy Trading Limited (Petral) from 2008 to 2015, seizing documents and electronic devices as evidence. Fugitive suspect Riza Chalid, a key figure accused of actively manipulating procurement processes and serving as the beneficial owner of related companies, remains at large despite unconfirmed rumours of his arrest in Dubai. This marks the second corruption case in the energy sector for Chalid, following a prior investigation into crude oil and refinery product governance from 2018 to 2023, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat graft in Indonesia's state-owned energy enterprises.

FAO: Middle East Conflict Drives Up Global Food Prices

The UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) reported a 2.4% rise in the global Food Price Index to 128.5 points in March 2026, marking the second consecutive monthly increase primarily triggered by escalating energy costs from the Middle East conflict. Vegetable oils and sugar prices surged the most, with the former up 5.1% due to higher palm, soy, sunflower, and rapeseed costs, and the latter jumping 7.2% amid expectations of increased Brazilian sugarcane allocation to ethanol production. This development underscores the vulnerability of global food supplies to geopolitical tensions and energy market fluctuations.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Prepares Hajj Scheme for Elderly and Disabled

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is developing targeted strategies to address the growing number of elderly and disabled pilgrims for the 1447 H/2026 M Hajj, including enhanced policies and facilities tailored to vulnerable groups. Director General Puji Raharjo emphasised the need for specific care approaches, such as intensive assistance, health data integration, and staff training, to ensure equitable access and dignity for all pilgrims. This initiative reflects a broader transformation towards more inclusive and just public services in Indonesia's Hajj management, underscoring humanitarian values in religious pilgrimage.

Antam Gold Price Today, 14 April, Rises by Rp 45,000 per Gram – Check Before Buying

The price of Antam gold in Indonesia rose by Rp 45,000 to Rp 2,863,000 per gram on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, from an opening price of Rp 2,818,000. Antam gold bars are available in various weights from 0.5 grams to 1 kg to suit different needs, with transactions subject to PPh 22 tax withholding. Buyers are advised to check the official Logam Mulia website, updated daily at 08:30 WIB, before purchasing.

16 Perpetrators of FHUI Obscene Chat Group Gathered in Forum, Apologise to Victims

Sixteen students accused of sexual harassment in a University of Indonesia Faculty of Law (FHUI) WhatsApp group were gathered in a forum where they directly apologised to the victims, as organised by the Student Executive Board. While the victims expressed disappointment and anger, the BEM chair emphasised that apologies alone are insufficient and called for firm sanctions to support the victims. The FHUI and university rector have condemned the incident and are investigating the matter, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat sexual harassment in academic settings.

Riva Siahaan Submits Appeal Memorandum Against 9-Year Sentence in Crude Oil Case

Riva Siahaan, former President Director of PT Pertamina Patra Niaga, has submitted an appeal memorandum challenging his nine-year prison sentence for corruption in the management of crude oil and refinery products at PT Pertamina Persero, arguing that no criminal act was committed and that he merely followed company procedures without causing state losses. Prosecutors, in their counter-appeal, contend the sentence is too lenient and seek a 14-year term plus a Rp 5 billion fine, while the court rejected claims of Rp 171.9 trillion in economic losses due to insufficient explanation. Co-defendants Maya Kusmaya and Edward Corne, also convicted in the case, have similarly appealed their sentences of nine and ten years, respectively, highlighting ongoing legal scrutiny over Pertamina's operations.

PLN Requires 48,000 Kilometres of Transmission Lines for Renewable Energy

PT PLN's Director General, Darmawan Prasodjo, has highlighted the need for 48,000 kilometres of transmission networks to support Indonesia's national energy transition by bridging the gap between remote renewable energy sources and urban consumption centres. Under the RUPTL 2025–2034 plan, PLN aims to add 69.5 gigawatts of capacity, with 76% from renewables like solar, wind, geothermal, hydro, and initial nuclear power, alongside battery storage systems to ensure supply stability. This infrastructure push is crucial for reducing import dependency, enhancing energy security, and aligning development with actual demand for efficient and targeted growth.

Not Just Practical: The Rise of Coretax SPT Jockeys Reveals Serious Gaps in the Digital Tax System

The shift to digital tax reporting via Coretax in Indonesia has led to the emergence of informal "jockey" services offering to fill and submit annual tax returns (SPT) for busy or confused taxpayers, highlighting significant usability issues in the system. Providers like Alisa, who started the service after facing her own difficulties, cater mainly to employees lacking time or facing technical errors, charging around Rp 50,000 per submission. This phenomenon underscores the challenges in modernising tax administration, potentially eroding compliance if accessibility gaps persist.

Hercules Challenges Housing Minister Ara to Prove Tanah Abang Land Status

Hercules, leader of the Indonesian United Victory People's Movement (GRIB Jaya), has challenged Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait to substantiate claims that his organisation is illegally occupying land in Tanah Abang, asserting that the land rightfully belongs to the heirs based on a 1923 ownership certificate. The dispute involves a legal challenge against PT KAI's 2008 land management rights, which the heirs argue are invalid as they ignore the prior longstanding claim without due process. Hercules urged against pressuring small communities and emphasised that such actions contradict President Prabowo Subianto's vision of protecting the underprivileged, while the case proceeds through the courts.

Strengthening Women's SME Empowerment, Bangun Bangsa Launches Empower Academy Jakarta Batch 2

Bangun Bangsa, a sustainability initiative of Bentoel Group, has launched the second batch of Empower Academy in Jakarta, targeting 25 women entrepreneurs from low-income families in West Jakarta's Rawa Buaya sub-district to foster economic independence through structured business capacity building. The programme offers comprehensive support including intensive training in business planning, product development, sales strategies, financial management, personal mentoring, production facilities, and assistance with business permits like NIB and halal certification. This initiative, in collaboration with SheStarts Indonesia and the DKI Jakarta Social Services Office, aims to expand economic empowerment for vulnerable groups, building on the success of the first batch and promoting sustainable community impact.

KPK Seizes USD 1 Million Prepared by Ministry of Religious Affairs for DPR Hajj Special Committee

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized USD 1 million that was allegedly prepared by former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas for the 2024 DPR RI Hajj Special Inquiry Committee, intercepting the funds from an intermediary before distribution. This action forms part of an ongoing corruption investigation into irregularities in Indonesia's 2023-2024 Hajj quota, which has resulted in state financial losses of Rp622 billion and led to the arrests of Yaqut and his special staff Ishfah Abidal Aziz. The seizure underscores the KPK's efforts to curb potential bribery in legislative oversight processes related to religious affairs.

IHSG Opens Up 1.42% at 7,606.90 Today

The Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) opened higher on Tuesday (14/4/2026), gaining 106.71 points or 1.42% to reach 7,606.90, reflecting strong market sentiment with 419 stocks advancing against 82 declining. Trading frequency stood at 104,100 transactions, with market capitalisation at Rp13,523 trillion, while key indices like KOMPAS100, IDX30, JII, and ISSI also posted gains. This upward movement underscores investor confidence in Indonesia's equity market amid broader economic conditions.

Parents Issue Legal Notice to Hasan Sadikin Hospital Over Near Baby Swap Incident

The mother of a newborn nearly swapped at Dr Hasan Sadikin General Hospital (RSHS) in Bandung has issued a formal legal notice to the hospital, demanding full transparency and a response within three days to prevent similar incidents. Accompanied by her legal team, she attempted to meet the hospital director but was met with representatives from the legal bureau, and plans to report the matter to police if unmet. Additionally, she intends to pursue a DNA test amid reports of similar unresolved cases at the facility, urging other potential victims to come forward.

Good News! Antam Precious Metal Gold Prices Surge Today

The price of Antam precious metal gold has surged today, reaching Rp2,863,000 per gram at Logam Mulia outlets, marking a Rp45,000 increase from the previous trading day after a decline yesterday. The buyback price also strengthened to Rp2,639,000 per gram, up Rp54,000. This upward movement aligns with a recovery in global gold prices, which rose 0.39% to US$4,757.52 per troy ounce, following a slight dip the day before.

To Make It Clear, Iran's Leader Explains the Consequences of a Strait of Hormuz Blockade for the US Through Mathematical Language

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has issued a stark warning to the United States, framing potential US policies against Iran in economic rather than military terms, predicting a surge in fuel prices for Americans due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Using a mathematical inequality, Qalibaf illustrated how an initial oil price increase from a blockade would trigger broader domino effects, far exceeding the primary impact. This message comes amid escalating tensions following US President Donald Trump's announcement of an impending naval blockade to intercept ships paying transit fees to Iran, highlighting the global energy route's vulnerability and potential repercussions for international trade and economies.

Telkom and PGN Promote Integrated Green Digital Infrastructure Ecosystem with Global Partners

PT Telkom Indonesia and PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to integrate digital infrastructure with low-carbon energy supplies, focusing on utilising biomethane from palm oil waste in Sumatra to power sustainable green data centres. This collaboration, involving key executives and supported by global partnerships like with Sembcorp, aims to enhance national digital sovereignty and position Indonesia as a regional digital hub, with potential implementation in strategic locations such as Cikarang, Batam, and Surabaya. The initiative underscores the synergy between state-owned enterprises in accelerating digital transformation and the national energy transition towards a low-carbon future.

Ibrahim Arief to Face Prosecution in Chromebook Corruption Trial on Thursday

Former technology consultant for Indonesia's Ministry of Education, Ibrahim Arief, is scheduled to face prosecution on Thursday, 16 April 2026, in a high-profile corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops that allegedly caused state losses of Rp 2.1 trillion. The case implicates Ibrahim alongside former ministry officials Mulyatsyah and Sri Wahyuningsih, with ex-Education Minister Nadiem Makarim accused of personal enrichment worth Rp 809 billion through misuse of authority to favour Google products in Indonesia's tech ecosystem. This trial underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in public procurement and the intersection of government policy with international tech investments.

Developer: Protected Paddy Land Policy Hinders Investment

Property developers in Solo Raya, Central Java, have criticised the Protected Paddy Land (LSD) policy for creating legal uncertainties that stall housing projects, particularly for low-income families, and threaten the government's target of building three million homes. The policy's misalignment between central and local regulations leads to overlapping rules and conflicts with established spatial planning documents, as highlighted by academic studies from Universitas Sebelas Maret. Developers are calling for a comprehensive evaluation of LSD designations on unproductive land and greater involvement in spatial planning forums to align policies with national development goals.

Ditpolair Polri Uncovers Lobster Seed Smuggling Case in Serang

Indonesia's Directorate of Water Police has busted an illegal smuggling operation involving 47,000 lobster seeds in Serang, Banten, following a public tip-off about shipments from West and Central Java. Five suspects were arrested, and evidence including holding tanks, cooling equipment, and vehicles was seized, preventing an estimated state loss of Rp705 million based on black market values. The case highlights ongoing police efforts to combat fisheries crimes that threaten marine ecosystems and the national economy, with suspects facing up to eight years in prison under fisheries laws.

Houses Burned, Residents Evacuate, TNI Drones Monitor Armed Perpetrators

In a sudden attack in Kampung Muara, Central Papua, houses were set ablaze, forcing residents to flee amid reports of armed individuals spotted by TNI drones. Ground patrols by TNI forces from Koops Habema are actively searching the area to prevent further escalation, while providing aid and assessing damage to affected homes. This incident underscores the ongoing complex tensions in Papua, linking local security challenges to broader issues of trust and state-community relations.

Airlangga Claims Indonesia's Economy Remains Resilient Amid Global Turmoil, Unlike the 1998 Crisis

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto has asserted that Indonesia's economy is robust in the face of global uncertainties, contrasting sharply with the 1998 crisis, with projected GDP growth of 5.11% for 2025 and over 5.3% this year. Key indicators include a controlled budget deficit below 3%, low recession risk of just 5% according to Bloomberg, rice self-sufficiency with record production and reserves, and stable foreign exchange reserves covering six months of imports. The government's debt ratio stands at a manageable 40.46% of GDP, predominantly domestic-sourced, bolstering resilience against external shocks while tax revenues surge 14.3% year-on-year.

Breaking News! US Dollar Breaks Through Rp17,110 This Morning

The Indonesian rupiah opened weaker against the US dollar on Tuesday morning, trading at Rp17,110 per dollar, a 0.09% depreciation from the previous close. Bank Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to stabilising the rupiah through measured interventions in spot, NDF, and DNDF markets, with 24-hour readiness to address fluctuations amid stable global dollar sentiment and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. This development underscores ongoing efforts to mitigate currency volatility in Indonesia's financial markets.

Bali Electricity Maintenance and Outage Schedule for 14 April 2026: Check the Locations

PT PLN (Persero) Unit Induk Distribusi Bali has scheduled network maintenance on 14 April 2026, affecting areas from East Bali to South Bali, aimed at enhancing the reliability and quality of the electricity supply. The planned outages, detailed across specific locations in Gianyar, Denpasar, Mengwi, and Tabanan, will occur between 10:00 and 16:30 WITA, with PLN apologising for any inconvenience and advising residents to prepare by charging devices and avoiding high-power appliance use upon restoration. This routine maintenance underscores PLN's commitment to preventing sudden disruptions and ensuring infrastructure safety in a key tourism-driven region.

Breaking News! IHSG Surges, Opens Up 1.4% Straight Away

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) opened strongly on Tuesday, rising 1.4% or 105.19 points to 7,605.38, amid robust domestic economic fundamentals despite global pressures from the escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict. The war has driven oil prices above US$100 per barrel by disrupting the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global finance, commodities, and trade channels that ripple into Indonesia through capital outflows, export price boosts, and potential stagflation risks. Bank Indonesia is actively monitoring markets and intervening to stabilise the rupiah, supporting expectations of 5.2% GDP growth in Q1 2026.

Free and Active or Free to Be Passed Over?

A recent proposal to grant US military aircraft access to Indonesian airspace has sparked widespread debate on Indonesia's foreign policy direction, particularly its longstanding principle of 'free and active' diplomacy. This principle, designed by Mohammad Hatta since independence, aims to prevent Indonesia from becoming a satellite of major powers while maintaining broad relations without military entanglements. The geopolitical sensitivity of Indonesia's location between the Pacific and Indian Oceans underscores the risks of eroding sovereignty and altering perceptions of Indonesia's role in regional security architecture.

US Military Begins Blockade of Iranian Ports, What is Tehran's Reaction?

The United States has initiated a military blockade of Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf and eastern Strait of Hormuz to prevent ships from entering or exiting without permission, following failed peace negotiations in Pakistan and President Trump's threats over alleged illegal tolls and mines. Iran has strongly condemned the move, with its Foreign Minister lamenting the shift from near-agreement to maximalist demands and threats, while the parliamentary speaker warned of impending global fuel price spikes and vowed not to yield. The blockade, enforced impartially by US forces starting Monday, exempts food and medicine shipments after inspection but raises significant risks to international maritime trade and energy security in the region.

JCI Opens in the Green, Asia-Pacific Markets Sluggish Amid US Threat to Blockade Strait of Hormuz

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened higher on Tuesday, gaining 41 points or 0.56% to reach 7,541, with analysts predicting potential further gains towards 7,600 despite risks of correction. Asia-Pacific stock markets mostly declined due to heightened investor concerns over the US moving towards blockading Iranian ports following failed peace talks in Islamabad, which spiked oil prices and raised fears of prolonged US-Iran conflict. While Wall Street indices closed higher on optimism about possible US-Iran agreements, including signals from the opposing side, the geopolitical tensions continue to pressure global economic prospects.

Ojol Protest in Menteng This Afternoon, Beware of Potential Traffic Hotspots

Online motorcycle taxi (ojol) unions are set to demonstrate outside the Saiful Mujani Research & Consulting office in Menteng, Jakarta, starting at 11:00 WIB on Tuesday, alongside another protest by social activists near Monas at 13:00 WIB. A total of 476 personnel have been deployed for security, with situational traffic management planned to mitigate disruptions. Authorities urge the public to avoid the areas to prevent congestion, highlighting ongoing social concerns in Indonesia's gig economy.

MK Chief to Anwar Usman: Thank You for Your Dedication and Service

At Anwar Usman's retirement ceremony from the Constitutional Court (MK) after 15 years of service, Chief Justice Suhartoyo expressed profound gratitude for his dedication and the valuable lessons learned from his tenure, while acknowledging some controversies but emphasising his role as a role model. Anwar Usman humbly apologised for any shortcomings during his time at the court and viewed his retirement as a fresh start, likening it to a newborn's entry into the world. He will be replaced by Liliek Prisbawono Adi, nominated by the Supreme Court.

Shanghai Remains Open to Foreign SMEs, Including Those from Indonesia

Shanghai's government has reaffirmed its openness to foreign small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including those from Indonesia, highlighting the city's advanced infrastructure, financing ease, and international business environment as key attractions. With around 68,000 foreign SMEs projected by 2025, primarily in agriculture and manufacturing, Shanghai provides extensive support such as loans, interest rate reductions, and AI-driven services to foster growth. This aligns with Indonesian efforts to integrate its 65.5 million SMEs—contributing 61.9% to GDP—into China's supply chains, potentially enhancing bilateral trade and economic ties.

Through This Innovation, PGN Pagardewa Achieves PROPER Gold 2025 from KLHK

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara Tbk's Pagardewa Station has been awarded the Gold rating in the 2025 PROPER programme by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry for its commitment to sustainable environmental management. The company implemented innovations such as modifying the control exhaust fan for energy efficiency, optimising maintenance to reduce hazardous waste, and enhancing gas venting systems to cut emissions by over 24,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent. This recognition underscores PGN's proactive role in environmental compliance and beyond, aligning with national mandates to monitor thousands of business units for environmental impact.

IMA: Proposal to Halt Tax Refunds Should Be Reconsidered as It Could Disrupt Business Climate

The Indonesian Mining Association (API-IMA) has urged the government to reconsider the proposal to discontinue tax refunds, warning that it could significantly impact business stability and mining sector operations by undermining cash flow and investor confidence. Executive Director Sari Esayanti emphasised the importance of legal certainty in tax refunds for good governance and sustainable economic growth through collaboration between government and business. The Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) echoed these concerns, highlighting the potential disruption to company cash flows that rely on refund mechanisms.

Government's 6 Strategies to Face Prolonged Dry Season

The Indonesian Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) has outlined six key strategies to mitigate the impacts of a prolonged dry season expected in 2026, influenced by a weak to moderate El Niño phenomenon starting in July. These measures include optimising water reservoir operations, strengthening irrigation networks, adjusting planting patterns, and accelerating infrastructure development such as dams and alternative water sources to safeguard water, food, and environmental security. Emphasising cross-sectoral collaboration, officials stress that proactive anticipation and coordination are essential to prevent the dry spell from escalating into a crisis.