Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 April 2026

Showing 1,351-1,400 of 1,583 articles

After 5-Hour Meeting with Putin, Prabowo Heads Straight to Paris to Meet Macron

President Prabowo Subianto, following an intensive five-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin, arrived in Paris late Monday to continue his diplomatic tour with a bilateral discussion with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace. The Moscow talks underscored the depth of Indonesia-Russia strategic partnerships in energy, mineral resources, and national industry development. The Paris meeting aims to enhance bilateral cooperation while allowing Indonesia to articulate its stance on global stability and peace promotion.

OSS Strengthened to Reduce Investment Uncertainty

Indonesia's Minister of Investment, Rosan Roeslani, has announced enhancements to the Online Single Submission (OSS) system to minimise investment uncertainties and streamline licensing processes. The upgraded system, integrating AI and blockchain with full support from 18 ministries following the implementation of PP No. 28/2025, has led to a surge in Business Identification Numbers (NIB), reaching 15.8 million since 2021, with 1.8 million issued in the last five months. This initiative, backed by approved budgets and a 'positive fiction' mechanism for timely approvals, aims to foster a more robust national investment climate amid global dynamics.

DPR Ethics Committee to Summon PKS Member Habib Aboe Over Ulama-Drug Trafficking Remarks

The DPR's Honour Council (MKD) will summon PKS lawmaker Habib Aboe Bakar Alhabsyi on Tuesday following his controversial statement during a commission meeting with the National Narcotics Agency (BNN), where he alleged involvement of ulama and pesantren in Madura in drug trafficking for profit. The remarks, which went viral on social media, highlighted the need for stronger collaboration among authorities and communities to combat narcotics, while expressing concerns over potential ties to influential business figures. This development underscores tensions within Indonesia's legislative body regarding sensitive issues of religious involvement in crime.

Bank Indonesia Opens 2026 PKWT Recruitment with Multiple Positions Available Until 17 April

Bank Indonesia has launched its 2026 PKWT recruitment programme, offering various strategic positions as part of efforts to build a competent and integrity-driven workforce ready for digital challenges. Registration is open from 12 to 17 April 2026, with opportunities in areas such as the Jakarta Provincial Representative Office, Macroprudential, and Monetary sectors. This initiative underscores BI's commitment to strengthening its human resources amid evolving economic demands.

Response to Customs Case: Barong Group Cigarette Entrepreneur Declares Panca-Ampera

In response to ongoing investigations into illegal cigarettes and excise stamp irregularities, HRM Khalilur R Abdullah Sahlawiy, owner of Bandar Rokok Nusantara Global Group (Barong Group), has declared the Panca Ampera—five mandates reflecting the challenges faced by Madura-Nusantara tobacco farmers and small-scale cigarette businesses. The declaration calls for halting the criminalisation of indigenous small entrepreneurs, eradicating illegal cigarettes through targeted enforcement and systemic reforms, introducing special excise rates for people's cigarettes, accelerating the Madura Tobacco Special Economic Zone, and providing robust government support for tobacco farmers' welfare. This initiative underscores the need for equitable policies to strengthen Indonesia's tobacco industry from the grassroots level amid KPK probes into excise misuse in East Java.

Indonesia to Begin Construction of Rare Earth Metal Plant Next Month, Here's the Scoop

Indonesia, through PT Timah Tbk, is set to break ground on a research and production facility for rare earth elements in May 2026, as directed by President Prabowo Subianto. The project involves collaboration with Perminas, which will handle processing and downstreaming, using tin by-products as raw materials to produce high-value items for power generation, solar energy, and electric vehicles. This initiative aims to accelerate monetisation, with the plant expected to operate within two years, potentially boosting national foreign exchange through valuable mineral processing.

Pope Leo: I Am Not Afraid of Trump

Pope Leo has affirmed that he is unafraid of the Trump administration and will continue to speak out against war, promoting peace, dialogue, and multilateralism. This statement follows sharp criticism from US President Donald Trump, who accused the Chicago-born Pope of weakness on crime and poor foreign policy, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear capabilities. The exchange highlights deepening tensions between the Vatican and the White House on global issues.

Cilegon Regional-Owned Enterprise Secures Rp 4.2 Billion from Land Lease to Chinese Company

PT Pelabuhan Cilegon Mandiri (PCM), a regional-owned enterprise in Cilegon, has signed a six-month land lease agreement with China Chengda Engineering Co., Ltd, generating Rp 4.2 billion in revenue for storing materials needed for the construction of PT Chandra Asri Alkali's chemical plant. The deal, at a rate of approximately Rp 17.8 million per square metre excluding VAT, exceeds market prices and aims to optimise underutilised assets while promoting transparency. Local officials hope this partnership will attract more sustainable investments to the area, potentially extending the lease duration up to a year depending on project needs.

China Hopes for Peaceful Negotiations Despite Failure of Islamabad Talks

China has expressed hope for a resolution to the Middle East crisis through diplomatic negotiations, even after US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, failed to reach an agreement, primarily over the Strait of Hormuz. The closure of the strait by Iran since late February 2026 has disrupted global energy markets, causing sharp rises in prices, as it handles 20% of the world's oil supply. This fragile ceasefire and ongoing regional tensions underscore the need for political solutions to restore stability in the Gulf.

Antam Gold Price Surges Rp45,000 on Tuesday to Rp2.863 Million per Gram

The price of Antam gold rose sharply by Rp45,000 to Rp2,863,000 per gram on Tuesday, as monitored on the Logam Mulia website in Jakarta, with the buyback price also increasing to Rp2,639,000 per gram. This fluctuation highlights the volatility in the precious metals market, influenced by global economic factors. Transactions are subject to specific tax regulations under PMK No. 34/PMK.10/2017, including PPh 22 deductions for purchases and sales, which vary based on NPWP status.

Simulation of Rupiah at Rp17,000 and Oil Price at US$84: How Much Would the State Budget Deficit Widen?

The weakening of the rupiah to Rp17,000 per US dollar, combined with a surge in global oil prices to US$84 per barrel, poses significant risks to Indonesia's state budget (APBN), potentially widening the fiscal deficit beyond the 3% of GDP threshold. According to a simulation by CORE Indonesia, energy subsidies could exceed Rp100 trillion under these conditions, pushing the deficit to 3.13% of GDP in a worst-case scenario, while the Finance Ministry maintains that current oil prices are around US$78 per barrel using the Indonesian Crude Price as a benchmark and is prepared for adjustments if needed. This highlights the challenges in fiscal management amid global economic volatility, particularly influenced by US-Iran tensions.

Red and White Village Cooperatives Can Now Receive Funding from the State Budget, Airlangga Prepares Oversight

The Indonesian government has introduced a new funding scheme for Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) through the State Budget (APBN), as outlined in Ministerial Regulation No. 15 of 2026 issued by the Finance Minister. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto emphasised the importance of monitoring these funds to boost economic activities at the village level, with financing capped at Rp 3 billion per unit at a 6% annual rate and flexible repayment terms supported by local fund transfers. This initiative aims to ease the burden on local cooperative managers and stimulate grassroots economic development.

Instead of Spending Money on Wedding Parties, KDM Urges Future Couples to Buy a House

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has urged young couples in the province to prioritise purchasing a home over lavish wedding celebrations, suggesting they opt for simple ceremonies at the Office of Religious Affairs and use the savings for housing down payments. He highlighted government initiatives such as subsidised housing programmes, the upcoming Imah Aing app for housing proposals, low-interest KUR housing loans, and the development of apartments near industrial areas in Bekasi, Depok, Bogor, and Bandung to integrate living and working spaces while reducing traffic congestion. This approach aims to promote long-term financial stability and address housing issues like dilapidated homes in the community.

BRI Strengthens Collaboration with Correspondent Banks

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), Indonesia's largest state-owned bank, is enhancing its partnerships with correspondent banks to bolster international transaction capabilities and support the country's economic growth. This strategic move aims to expand BRI's global reach, facilitating smoother cross-border payments and trade finance services. The initiative underscores BRI's commitment to strengthening Indonesia's financial infrastructure amid increasing global trade demands.

Vietnam’s “New Momentum” with Beijing Is a Strategic Trap

Vietnamese leader Tô Lâm’s visit to Beijing is portrayed by Hanoi as a diplomatic triumph fostering record trade and investment, but it risks entangling Vietnam deeper into China’s economic orbit amid Western crackdowns on supply-chain circumvention. This could undermine Vietnam’s export-driven growth to the US and EU by portraying it as a backdoor for Chinese goods, leading to stricter inspections and lost market access. Strategically, the visit signals reduced autonomy in the South China Sea disputes and broader Indo-Pacific dynamics, potentially diminishing Vietnam’s appeal as a diversified manufacturing hub while serving domestic political consolidation.

Indonesia Agrees to Strengthen Military Defence Cooperation with the US

Indonesia's Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth have agreed to elevate bilateral military ties by establishing the Major Defense Cooperation Partnership (MDCP) during a meeting at the Pentagon. This framework aims to enhance operational collaboration, support defence modernisation, and improve military training and interoperability between the two nations. The partnership underscores Indonesia's strategic role in regional stability and reaffirms a commitment to peace through strength in the Indo-Pacific.

BRI to Distribute Rp 209 Dividend, Note the Date

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk. (BBRI) has approved a total dividend distribution of Rp 52.10 trillion from its 2025 net profit, equivalent to Rp 346 per share, following the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. This includes an interim dividend of Rp 137 per share already paid on 15 January 2026, leaving a final cash dividend of Rp 209 per share to be distributed on 8 May 2026. Shareholders recorded as of 22 April 2026 will be eligible, with trading schedules adjusted accordingly for cum and ex-dividend periods.

Trail of the Karo District Prosecutor: Scrutinised over the Amsal Sitepu Case, Now Loses Position

The Head of the Karo District Prosecutor's Office, Danke Rajagukguk, has been removed from his position following an internal investigation by the Attorney General's Office into the handling of the corruption case involving videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu. The case gained public attention due to allegations of unprofessional conduct and intimidation by Danke and his team, leading to their reassignment to functional roles without structural positions. This move underscores the Attorney General's commitment to maintaining integrity within the prosecution service amid viral scrutiny on social media.

What are DTKS and DTSEN? Here’s the Difference and How to Register to Receive Social Assistance!

The Indonesian government has transitioned from the DTKS (Integrated Social Welfare Data) to the new DTSEN (National Single Social and Economic Data) system as the primary database for social assistance programmes, integrating data from multiple sources to cover the entire population across ten deciles of welfare levels. This shift, formalised by Presidential Instruction No. 4 of 2025, aims to enhance accuracy, transparency, and targeting in aid distribution, with Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf emphasising its role as the main reference for future social and economic initiatives. Citizens can register for DTSEN either offline via local village offices or online through official applications, followed by status checks via government websites or the Kemensos app.

Anwar Usman Writes "Pandora's Box" Book, Reveals 15 Years of Experience at the Constitutional Court

Former Constitutional Court (MK) Justice Anwar Usman has authored two books titled "Kotak Pandora I" and "Kotak Pandora II", candidly detailing his 15-year tenure without any bias. During his retirement ceremony on 13 April 2026, he affirmed his unwavering commitment to upholding truth, law, and justice as a divine trust, while sharing insights on the risks involved with the nine active justices. Anwar likened his retirement to a fresh start, expressing deep apologies and gratitude to the MK family for any past shortcomings.

Celebrating 85 Years, OCBC Delivers Added Value for Customers

In commemoration of its 85th anniversary, OCBC NISP has introduced innovative banking solutions and special appreciation programmes to enhance customer experiences, including multi-currency accounts, seamless cross-border transactions, and digital platforms for both individuals and businesses. The bank reported a robust net profit of Rp5.1 trillion in 2025, supported by strong operational income growth and solid liquidity, underscoring its commitment to sustainable expansion amid economic dynamics. Leveraging its regional network across Southeast Asia, OCBC continues to provide comprehensive financial services, reinforcing customer trust and adaptability to evolving needs.

IHSG Attractive Again, Check Out Today's Recommended Stocks

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed higher on Monday, gaining 0.56% to 7,500.19, driven by strong performances in petrochemical stocks amid positive global sentiment from potential US-Iran agreements. Meanwhile, companies like Erajaya Swasembada reported robust 2025 revenue and profit growth, while Arwana Citramulia announced a substantial cash dividend payout, highlighting ongoing market optimism in Indonesia's financial sector.

China says US desire to blockade Strait of Hormuz will not resolve the issue

China has criticised the United States' decision to blockade the Strait of Hormuz following failed negotiations in Islamabad, stating that such measures will not address the root causes of the disruptions, which stem from ongoing military conflicts. Beijing urges all parties to exercise restraint and restore peace in the Gulf and Middle East to ensure the security of this vital international trade route, through which 20 per cent of global oil and LNG supplies pass. The blockade, announced by President Donald Trump, has already halted shipping traffic, prompting warnings from Iran and its Revolutionary Guards of retaliatory actions against affiliated vessels.

Boni Hargens: Collaboration Between Polri, TNI, and BIN Strengthens National Economic-Security Stability

Senior political analyst Boni Hargens has praised President Prabowo Subianto's swift instructions to key officials—including the TNI Commander, Police Chief, BIN Head, and Finance Minister—before his trip to Russia, highlighting the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration to safeguard economic and security stability amid geopolitical uncertainties from the Middle East conflict. He emphasised that this synergy among security institutions like Polri, TNI, and BIN, complemented by the Attorney General's success in recovering Rp 31.3 trillion in state assets, is crucial for enforcing economic laws and combating smuggling. Hargens stressed the need for concrete, accountable responses from these institutions to ensure national resilience.

Viral Convoy of Arteria Dahlan Stops and Poses for Photos at Sitinjau Lauik, Three Escort Officers Examined by Propam

A convoy led by former Indonesian DPR member Arteria Dahlan from PDIP went viral after stopping on the hazardous Sitinjau Lauik bend in West Sumatra for photos, causing traffic disruptions and public backlash over safety concerns. The incident, which occurred on 6 March, prompted an investigation by the West Sumatra Police's Propam unit into three traffic officers from Solok City Police who were providing escort duties, suspecting violations of standard operating procedures. If violations are confirmed, the officers could face disciplinary actions, highlighting issues of protocol adherence in VIP escorts.

Amendment to Witness and Victim Protection Law One Step Away from Enactment

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XIII has approved the draft amendment to the Witness and Victim Protection Law (PSDK), advancing it to the plenary session for final enactment. The revision, initiated by the DPR and supported unanimously by all factions and the government, expands protections to include reporters, informants, and experts, while strengthening victims' rights to physical and psychological support, legal aid, and rehabilitation. This update to the 2014 law aims to bolster the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) and enhance justice processes amid growing needs for comprehensive safeguards.

Most Popular: Indonesia-Russia Cooperation to RI Air Authority

In a key diplomatic development, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin have agreed to enhance bilateral ties in economy, energy, space, agriculture, industry, and pharmaceuticals, signaling strengthened international partnerships. Meanwhile, the government aims to integrate 1.4 million social aid recipients into the Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme to boost employment and poverty alleviation efforts. Other highlights include clarifications on professional event management for the Free Nutritious Meals programme, the retirement ceremony of Constitutional Court Justice Anwar Usman, and reaffirmation that Indonesia's air authority remains under full government control.

Even More Alarming! IEA, IMF, and WB Reveal Unimaginable Global Situation

Leaders from the International Energy Agency (IEA), International Monetary Fund (IMF), and World Bank (WB) have warned of profound global economic disruptions stemming from the Iran-US-Israel war, including sharp rises in oil, gas, and fertiliser prices that threaten food security and employment, particularly in low-income energy-importing nations. They highlighted ongoing uncertainties in Middle East shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz, infrastructure damage likely to keep fuel and fertiliser costs elevated, and secondary effects such as forced displacements and tourism declines. The group pledged close coordination to monitor impacts, provide tailored policy advice, and offer financial support to foster resilient recovery and stability.

KPK Continues Investigation Despite Rita Widyasari's Release

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has affirmed its commitment to pursuing investigations into alleged corruption cases involving former Kutai Kartanegara Regent Rita Widyasari, even after her release from custody. This includes probes into money laundering and corporate corruption related to gratuities in palm oil and coal mining sectors. The decision underscores KPK's determination to avoid delays and expedite proceedings to trial, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat high-level graft in Indonesia's resource-rich regions.

BKI Expands Cooperation to Regional and Global Maritime Industry at Asia Pacific Maritime

PT Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI), a state-owned enterprise under the IDSurvey holding, participated in the Asia Pacific Maritime (APM) 2026 exhibition and conference in Singapore to strengthen its international presence in the global maritime industry. The event allowed BKI to network with regional and global stakeholders, showcase its capabilities, and explore collaborations, including visits to booths of Indonesian associations like INSA and IPERINDO, as well as the Weichai Group. This participation underscores BKI's commitment to advancing Indonesia's role in the international maritime ecosystem, focusing on shipbuilding, offshore sectors, and emerging technologies such as electric and hybrid marine systems.

Three Bandung City Civil Servants Caught Wandering Outside the City During WFH

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan has identified three civil servants (ASN) who violated work-from-home (WFH) protocols by travelling outside the city to locations such as Purwakarta, Majalengka, and Karawang, using tracking software to monitor their movements. The incident underscores the need for discipline during remote work arrangements, with the employees set to receive warnings and the mayor planning personal inspections to ensure compliance and assess energy savings. This enforcement highlights ongoing efforts to maintain productivity and accountability among public sector workers amid flexible working policies.

Viral Contrast Between SDN Building in Majalengka and MBG Kitchen Sparks Explanation from Education Office

A stark contrast between the dilapidated building of SDN II Gandawesi in Majalengka and the adjacent modern MBG kitchen has gone viral on social media, drawing attention from local and central government authorities. The school principal remains optimistic, noting that repair proposals were submitted prior to her appointment and are now progressing with measurements already conducted by the district education office. The Majalengka Education Office confirms the school is prioritised for repairs this year, supported by central government revitalisation programmes and presidential aid allocated for 2026, aiming to enhance educational facilities and quality.

Gold Prices at Galeri 24, UBS, Antam, and Antam Retro All Decline Today

Gold prices across various brands sold at Galeri 24, including Antam, UBS, and Antam Retro, have uniformly decreased on Tuesday, 14 April 2026. For instance, the price of 1 gram of Galeri 24 gold fell to Rp2,838,000 from Rp2,876,000, while Antam gold dropped to Rp2,931,000 from Rp2,975,000. This downturn in precious metal prices may signal broader market fluctuations, impacting investors and buyers in Indonesia's gold market.

Asian Stock Markets Brighten Amid Hopes of US-Iran Peace Despite Ongoing Sea Blockade

Asian-Pacific stock markets opened higher on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, buoyed by hopes of a potential agreement between the United States and Iran, even as Washington enforces a blockade on Iranian shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The fragile ceasefire between the two nations is under strain due to mutual accusations of violations, with the US aiming to pressure Iran into reopening sea routes after failed peace talks. Investors are also eyeing upcoming Chinese trade data, while Wall Street closed strongly the previous day on similar optimistic expectations.

When TPS Is No Longer Just a Rubbish Depot: What Happens in Surabaya

In Surabaya, temporary waste collection points (TPS) have evolved beyond their intended purpose into hubs of informal economic activity, where waste pickers sort recyclables amid mounting daily refuse of 1,600 tonnes, leading to overcrowding and inefficiencies in the city's waste management system. Mayor Eri Cahyadi's policy prohibiting the parking of waste carts at TPS aims to restore order and discipline, addressing deeper issues of urban space governance and the tension between formal waste handling and the livelihoods of vulnerable groups. This initiative reflects broader efforts by the city government to shift from reactive measures to a more structured and planned approach, including regulated disposal schedules and crackdowns on illegal dumping.

Cipularang and Padaleunyi Toll Road Repairs, Lanes Closed at Several Points

PT Jasa Marga is conducting maintenance on the Cipularang and Padaleunyi toll roads from 12-18 April 2026 to enhance service quality, safety, and user comfort on these vital Jakarta-Bandung corridors, which see high traffic volumes especially during weekends and holidays. Works include pavement reconstruction and scrapping, filling, and overlay (SFO) at specific locations, resulting in temporary lane closures in both directions while traffic is rerouted to available lanes. Jasa Marga advises motorists to plan their journeys, follow signs and officer instructions, and ensure sufficient electronic toll balance.

Strengthening Telecommunications Business - INET Acquires 60% Stake in Sarana Global for Rp280 Billion

PT Sinergi Inti Andalan Prima Tbk (INET), an internet service provider, plans to acquire a 60% stake in PT Sarana Global Indonesia (SGI) for Rp280.4 billion to enhance its integrated capabilities in telecommunications infrastructure, particularly submarine fiber optic cables. This strategic move will position INET as the controlling shareholder of SGI, leveraging its assets like specialized cable-laying vessels to accelerate network expansion and create new revenue streams amid rising data traffic demands. The acquisition, deemed material, requires shareholder approval at a meeting scheduled for 19 May 2026, following INET's robust 2025 performance with revenue surging 201% to Rp91.82 billion.

BKPM Remains Optimistic About Q1 Investment Targets

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Roeslani expressed confidence that first-quarter investment realisation in 2026 will reach approximately Rp497 trillion, marking a 7% annual growth and aligning with government targets. This achievement is projected to create around 627,000 jobs, a 5.5% increase from the previous year, with significant contributions from downstreaming sectors at 30% of total investments and key subsectors like basic metals, transportation, and mining. Amid global geopolitical challenges, investments from countries such as Singapore, China, and Japan continue to dominate, bolstered by Indonesia's stable political environment and open foreign policy, supporting the national goal of 8% economic growth under the 2025-2029 Medium-Term Development Plan.

Sharp Spotlight from Jakarta DPRD on Drinking Water Regional Regulation Draft

The Jakarta DPRD held a plenary session to scrutinise the draft regional regulation on the Drinking Water Supply System, addressing critical issues such as water availability, service improvements, tariffs, groundwater bans, and monopoly risks. Lawmakers demanded reciprocal accountability between the water utility PAM Jaya and residents, including penalties for service failures and social tariffs, including full subsidies for places of worship and orphanages. Governor Pramono Anung pledged mechanisms for sanctions and transparent subsidies based on social welfare data, though he did not commit to zero tariffs for religious sites, amid concerns over high water leakage rates threatening the 2030 universal coverage goal.

Bank Indonesia Stays Awake 24 Hours to Safeguard the Rupiah, from New York to Hong Kong

Bank Indonesia has pledged round-the-clock market interventions to maintain rupiah stability amid global uncertainties stemming from the Iran-US-Israel conflict, which has triggered capital outflows and strengthened the US dollar. Senior Deputy Governor Destry Damayanti emphasised the central bank's 24/7 operations across global time zones, utilising spot markets, domestic non-deliverable forwards (DNDF), and offshore non-deliverable forwards (NDF) to bolster investor confidence. Despite a 0.06% depreciation to Rp17,095 per US dollar, the rupiah has held resilient compared to regional peers, supported by robust foreign reserves equivalent to six months of imports.

Access to Mecca Restricted Starting 13 April: Check the Full Regulations!

The Saudi Arabian government has imposed restrictions on access to Mecca effective from 13 April 2026, allowing entry only to those with official Hajj permits from their home countries, as part of preparations for the 1447 Hijriah Hajj pilgrimage. This includes halting Umrah departures by 18 April 2026 and suspending new Umrah permits until 31 May, aimed at curbing illegal Hajj activities and ensuring the safety and order of the pilgrimage. Indonesian Hajj Ministry spokesperson Ichsan Marsha has urged the public to avoid illegal routes, warning of severe penalties under Saudi law.

Wall Street Rises as Investors Shift to Technology Amid Hopes of US-Iran Peace

US stock markets surged on Monday, driven by optimism over a potential resolution to the US-Iran-Israel conflict, with investors pivoting towards technology stocks amid President Trump's comments on Iran's willingness to negotiate without nuclear weapons. The Dow Jones rose 0.63% to 48,218.25, S&P 500 climbed 1.02% to 6,886.24, and Nasdaq jumped 1.23% to 23,183.74, led by gains in tech giants like Microsoft and Oracle, while falling oil prices eased inflation fears. This rebound erased losses from late February, highlighting the market's sensitivity to geopolitical developments.

PKH Beneficiaries Can Gain Additional Income from Merah Putih Village Cooperatives, Here's the Explanation

Indonesian ministers of Cooperatives and Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment met to strengthen the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (Kopdes) as a strategic tool for rural empowerment and poverty reduction. The discussion highlighted synergies to integrate PKH beneficiaries as cooperative members, enabling them to access economic empowerment and annual profit-sharing to accelerate their exit from extreme poverty. The government aims to foster self-reliant national economy through local products in agriculture, livestock, crafts, and creative industries, positioning cooperatives to absorb community production and compete globally.

Anwar Usman Retires from the Constitutional Court: I Offer My Apologies

Former Constitutional Court Justice Anwar Usman formally retired after 15 years of service, expressing profound apologies to his colleagues for any past shortcomings during a retirement ceremony in Jakarta. He reflected on the challenges of upholding truth, law, and justice amid inevitable criticisms and pressures, vowing never to retreat from these principles. The event marks a new chapter for Usman, who leaves the institution with a sense of relief and gratitude, highlighting the personal and professional trials he endured.

NasDem Denies Plans for Merger with Gerindra, Rejects Rumours of Takeover by Gibran

NasDem Party's Deputy Chairman Willy Aditya has clarified that Chairman Surya Paloh is proposing a political bloc rather than a merger or fusion with other parties, including Gerindra, to counter the transactional nature of current political alliances. He criticised the misuse of the term 'merger' and highlighted historical examples of political blocs in Indonesia, such as Golkar and Nasakom, while dismissing speculation about any takeover by Gibran. Aditya also described the meeting between Paloh and President Prabowo Subianto, Gerindra's leader, as a normal interaction between friends, underscoring their equal and open dialogue.

KPK: Intermediary in Money Flow from Yaqut to DPR Hajj Special Committee Initialled ZA

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that an individual initialled ZA acted as the intermediary in an alleged money flow of US$1 million from former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to members of the 2024 DPR Hajj Special Investigation Committee, though the funds remain in ZA's possession. This development stems from an ongoing corruption probe into the 2023-2024 Hajj quota for Indonesia, which has already led to the arrests of Yaqut, his special staff Ishfah Abidal Aziz, and two additional suspects, with state financial losses estimated at Rp622 billion. The case underscores persistent issues in managing religious pilgrimage allocations and potential bribery attempts to influence parliamentary oversight.

Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources Requests Bobibos to Conduct Road Tests on Motor Vehicles

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has directed the Indonesian biofuel innovation Bobibos to undergo road tests on cars and motorcycles as part of its validation process to potentially replace imported petrol. Bobibos, produced from rice straw—a waste material typically burned by farmers—aims to reduce fuel imports, enhance farmer incomes, mitigate environmental impacts from fossil fuels, and create jobs. Officials emphasised the need for technical assessments and obtaining necessary permits from relevant ministries to advance this sustainable alternative.

Hormuz Blockade Fails to Shake Markets, Asian Exchanges Open Positively

Asian-Pacific stock markets opened higher on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, buoyed by hopes of a potential agreement between Washington and Tehran despite the US initiating a blockade on Iranian shipments in the Strait of Hormuz. This optimism persists amid fragile ceasefire terms and mutual accusations of violations, with Iranian officials warning of global energy price surges. Meanwhile, China's trade data release is anticipated to gauge regional economic strength, as oil prices dipped and Wall Street futures remained steady following previous gains.

Ancol CEO Suddenly Resigns

PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk (PJAA), the developer of Jakarta's renowned Ancol tourism area, announced the sudden resignation of its President Director, Winarto, on 13 April 2026. The company stated that this leadership change will have no material impact on its operations, legal matters, financial condition, or business continuity. While the reasons for the resignation and potential successor remain undisclosed, PJAA's shares rose 0.93% to 545 in the previous trading session, marking a 3.81% gain over the past month despite a 4.39% year-to-date decline.

Strengthening HR Based on Needs, BPJPH Holds Training on Competency Development Needs Analysis

The Halal Product Assurance Organising Agency (BPJPH) is enhancing the quality of its human resources through targeted competency development aligned with organisational needs to boost the effectiveness of halal product certification services. It recently conducted hybrid training on Competency Development Needs Analysis (AKPK) for civil servants across its units, emphasising the identification of skill gaps to improve performance and support the national halal ecosystem. Head of BPJPH Ahmad Haikal Hasan stressed that such initiatives are crucial for creating competent 'halal experts' and ensuring the successful implementation of mandatory halal regulations.