The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized US$1 million that was allegedly prepared by former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas for distribution to members of the DPR's 2024 Special Committee on Hajj Rights. The funds were intercepted from an intermediary before reaching the intended recipients, amid an ongoing corruption investigation into Hajj quota mismanagement. This seizure marks a significant development in the case, which has already led to the arrest and detention of Yaqut, his special staff Ishfah Abidal Aziz, and two additional suspects from a Hajj organiser.

The Indonesian government has clarified that sovereignty over its airspace remains fully under national control, dismissing social media claims of an agreement allowing unrestricted access for US military aircraft. Defence Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Rico Ricardo Sirait stated that a reported draft document from a recent US-Indonesia meeting is preliminary and non-binding, with all defence cooperation prioritising national interests and adhering to domestic and international law. This response addresses concerns raised by media reports following President Prabowo Subianto's February meeting with US President Donald Trump, emphasising that no final agreement has been reached.

Amidst frequent stock market fluctuations that often alarm investors, especially during sharp corrections or potential crises, Morgan Stanley emphasises the importance of a disciplined financial planning approach to maintain portfolio stability and achieve long-term goals. The firm warns against emotional reactions like panic selling and risky market timing, noting that such behaviours can lead to missed recovery opportunities and long-term losses. A study of nearly 120,000 investors reveals that those adhering to a pre-established financial plan largely stay on track, with only a minor 2% drop in goal achievement probability even at market lows following a 16% portfolio decline.

Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanudin has ordered a large-scale rotation and mutation of high-ranking officials in the Attorney General's Office, including the appointment of 14 new Heads of Regional Prosecutors' Offices and several reassignments at the central level. Notably, Danke Rajagukguk has been removed from his position as Head of the Karo District Prosecutors' Office amid controversy surrounding a corruption case involving videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu, who was recently acquitted by the Medan District Court. This reshuffle, detailed in decrees dated 13 April 2026, underscores efforts to reorganise the prosecutorial leadership, potentially in response to public scrutiny and legislative oversight following the high-profile case.

Peter Magyar, Hungary's incoming Prime Minister, has pledged to prioritise cooperation with the European Union while safeguarding national interests, committing to both the EU and NATO as key guarantors of peace. He outlined a pragmatic foreign policy, including strengthened ties with Germany and Israel, pragmatic relations with Russia focused on energy diversification, and domestic reforms such as anti-corruption measures, specialised ministries, and enhanced public consultation. Magyar described his election as a historic turning point, with his Tisza Party receiving a strong mandate to restructure government and ensure fair competition for investors.

The West Papua provincial government has proposed an additional Rp1.15 trillion in regional transfer funds (TKD) for 2026, alongside increased flexibility in managing special autonomy (Otsus) funds, to accelerate development and enhance the welfare of indigenous Papuans. Governor Dominggus Mandacan highlighted fiscal constraints as a major challenge in delivering education, health, and infrastructure services, urging synergy between central and local governments. The proposals include recognising religious grants as education expenditure, supporting sports development, and adapting policies to the region's geographical challenges, such as high construction costs in remote areas.

Global gold prices declined on Monday due to a strengthening US dollar and heightened inflation concerns following the failure of peace talks between the United States and Iran, with spot prices dropping 0.3% to $4,734.50 per ounce. Market participants are closely monitoring Middle East tensions, which could influence oil prices, inflation, and the Federal Reserve's monetary policy, reducing expectations for rate cuts to 29%. Analysts view the price drop amid ongoing conflict as healthy for gold's long-term prospects, advising investors to time entries based on future inflation and interest rate trends.

PT PLN is preparing to phase out 2,139 diesel power plant units across 741 locations in Indonesia, following directives from President Prabowo Subianto to enhance national energy sovereignty by shifting from imported oil-based fuels to cleaner renewable sources. The transition will leverage local potentials such as micro-hydro and solar power with battery storage systems, aiming to reduce electricity production costs and bolster energy independence. This move is expected to save 200,000 barrels of oil per day, representing 20% of the nation's oil imports, with plans for a 100 GW solar capacity expansion to potentially eliminate fuel imports within a few years.

The Indonesian government has permitted domestic airlines to raise ticket prices by 9-13% due to surging aviation fuel costs from Middle East conflicts, while planning to eliminate minor fees like online booking admin charges. Transportation expert Revy Petragradia notes that the fuel price hike, contributing up to 40% of ticket costs, will likely reduce passenger numbers by 10-15% amid economic uncertainty, impacting business travel and prompting calls for airlines to adopt adaptive strategies integrating tourism packages. These measures, including fuel surcharges and tax incentives, aim to mitigate operational pressures but highlight broader challenges in the aviation sector.

Minister of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform, Rini Widyantini, has expressed optimism about the initial implementation of the work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) in central government agencies, noting that it has proceeded smoothly while maintaining performance levels similar to those during the Covid-19 pandemic. Although essential public services remain unaffected, challenges such as uneven digital infrastructure readiness and task mapping require ongoing improvements, with evaluations planned every two months starting in June 2026. This policy represents a broader bureaucratic transformation aimed at enhancing efficiency, adaptability, and environmental sustainability without altering performance targets.

The Yogyakarta Special Region Tourism Office, in collaboration with the Centre for Standards and Services for Craft and Batik Industries, is providing training and certification for 175 creative economy actors in the batik subsector through 2026, aiming to enhance skills, efficiency, and product value. The initial batch of 20 selected artisans underwent training from 13–17 April 2026, focusing on wax management to reduce production costs, which constitute nearly 70% of expenses, thereby increasing artisans' incomes and formal recognition of their competencies. This initiative supports the sustainability of the batik industry, empowers local communities, and receives legislative backing to foster innovative, environmentally friendly products with high economic value.

Indonesia and the United States have agreed to a Major Defence Cooperation Partnership, establishing a framework to advance bilateral defence ties and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement, reached during a meeting between Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in Washington, emphasises joint military exercises, capacity building, and advanced technology development while underscoring mutual respect and national sovereignty. This partnership gains added significance amid Hegseth's recent rhetoric framing US strikes on Iran since February as a religious war, highlighting potential geopolitical tensions in the region.

President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in Paris after intensive talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where the two leaders discussed strengthening strategic partnerships in energy, mineral resources, and national industry development. In Paris, Prabowo is scheduled to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron to enhance bilateral cooperation and articulate Indonesia's strategic views on global dynamics, including efforts to maintain stability and promote world peace. This diplomatic tour underscores Indonesia's active engagement in international relations amid evolving global challenges.

The Bisnis-27 index closed 0.22% lower at 496.32 on Monday, despite the Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) rising 0.56% to 7,500.19, buoyed by strong performances in the basic materials and energy sectors led by Barito Group companies such as BRPT, which surged 14.36%. Regional Asian markets faced negative sentiment due to failed US-Iran negotiations and Donald Trump's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting ongoing geopolitical tensions impacting investor confidence.

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has clarified that procurements of items such as laptops, eating utensils, and socks for the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) are limited and aligned with operational needs, refuting exaggerated public claims of 32,000 laptops and Rp4 trillion in utensils. In 2025, only 5,000 laptops were procured, while utensils for 315 state-funded Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) totalled around Rp68.94 billion against a Rp89.32 billion budget, with kitchen equipment at Rp245.81 billion out of Rp252.42 billion, all executed efficiently without waste. Socks are provided as part of training kits for the Indonesian Development Driver Bachelor Programme (SPPI), not directly procured by BGN, emphasising government's commitment to fiscal prudence in public health initiatives.

PT Astra International Tbk's dominance in Indonesia's four-wheeled vehicle market is waning, with its market share dropping to 47-49% in the first quarter of 2026 from 54% the previous year, amid falling sales volumes. Brands under Astra, including Toyota, Lexus, Isuzu, and UD Trucks, recorded significant declines, while non-Astra competitors sold more units, reflecting a more competitive market structure driven by new entrants and electric vehicle expansions. Astra plans to focus on synergistic product development and services to meet consumer needs and support the national automotive industry's sustainability.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss navigating the uncertain geopolitical landscape, emphasising the importance of consultations with world leaders. The leaders highlighted opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties in economy and energy, noting Indonesia's BRICS membership as a catalyst for enhanced strategic cooperation. Trade between the two nations rose 12% in 2025, with commitments to further increase partnerships amid global tensions.

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed higher on Monday, rising 0.56% to 7,500.19, despite opening in negative territory, with trading volume reaching Rp20.45 trillion. While foreign investors recorded a net buy of Rp396.77 billion overall, they heavily sold shares in companies like Bank Mandiri (BMRI) and Amman Mineral (AMMN), highlighting selective divestments amid market fluctuations.

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration conducted Operation Wirawaspada from 7-11 April 2026, apprehending 346 foreign nationals for immigration violations, with Chinese citizens comprising the largest group at 183 individuals. The primary violations included misuse of residence permits (214 cases), overstays, and fictitious investments, attributed to the significant number of Chinese expatriate workers in the country, which proportionally increases violation risks. Authorities plan to intensify oversight on industries employing foreign workers with improper classifications to uphold law and order, safeguarding national security and public welfare.

A Sun Life survey reveals that 57% of Indonesian women have neglected their own medical care to support family members, while 82% cut personal spending and 30% limit investment opportunities, highlighting the sacrifices women make for household needs. Despite 62% of women being the final decision-makers in family finances, only 13% consult professional financial advisors, exacerbating financial pressures and a 'triple penalty' affecting their careers, self-care, and financial security. As Indonesia approaches Kartini Day, these findings underscore the need for solutions that honour women's resilience without compromising their long-term futures.

The Yogyakarta Hajj Embarkation Centre at Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) is scheduled to commence its inaugural operations on 21 April 2026, marking a significant step in Indonesia's pilgrimage infrastructure. Prospective pilgrims from Yogyakarta and surrounding regions, totalling 9,320 individuals across 26 flight groups, will undergo final health checks and preparations before departure to the Holy Land, with preparations reaching 99% readiness. This development underscores the government's commitment to enhancing Hajj services, including special accommodations for the elderly, through coordinated efforts with airlines and airport authorities.

The Kremlin has stated it will not congratulate Peter Magyar, Hungary's newly elected prime minister who defeated Viktor Orban in parliamentary elections, citing Hungary's unfriendly stance and support for sanctions against Russia. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasised respect for the election results and expressed hope for continued dialogue with the new Hungarian leadership, despite no immediate plans for talks with Magyar. This development marks the end of Orban's 16-year tenure and signals potential shifts in Hungary-Russia relations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

US President Donald Trump has refused to apologise for criticising Pope Leo over his stance on the war in Iran, and instead posted an AI-generated image on his Truth Social platform portraying himself as Jesus healing a sick man. The image, which included American symbols like the Statue of Liberty and a bald eagle, drew swift backlash even from some of his staunch supporters and conservative figures, leading Trump to delete it and claim he thought it showed him as a doctor. This incident highlights ongoing controversies surrounding Trump's use of religious imagery in his political messaging amid international tensions.

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto has stated that there has been no discussion yet regarding the establishment of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for medical cannabis in Indonesia. This comes after DPR Commission III member Hinca Pandjaitan advocated for deeper research into medical cannabis, criticising the Health Ministry for failing to comply with a Constitutional Court mandate to conduct such studies. Hinca highlighted potential benefits of cannabis in agriculture and food security, proposing a dedicated SEZ to regulate its production and rehabilitation openly, contrasting it with the criminal impacts of other narcotics like methamphetamine.

State-owned plantation and forestry companies PTPN and Perhutani have pledged to collaborate with the Jember Regency government to eliminate extreme poverty in the region, which has the highest rate in East Java. Initiatives include providing low-interest loans to cattle farmers, social forestry programmes allocating 36,000 hectares of land to impoverished families, and partnerships for agricultural projects to boost food security and economic welfare. Local leaders and experts emphasise the need for coordinated efforts among stakeholders to ensure these programmes effectively target and uplift vulnerable communities within one to two years.

In a citizen lawsuit filed by a retired TNI officer challenging President Jokowi's diploma, Roy Suryo expressed surprise at the appearance of Pitra Romadoni, his former lawyer, as an intervenor defendant on the second day of the hearing at the South Jakarta District Court. The intervenor's failure to submit required court documents led to objections from the plaintiffs and a postponement of the proceedings by the judges. This development highlights procedural hurdles in the high-profile case, raising questions about the intervenor's relevance and preparedness.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that the questioning of several cigarette industry entrepreneurs in an alleged corruption case within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise stems from documents uncovered during a raid at the agency. These documents listed names such as Martinus, Rokhmawan, Suryo, and Haji Her, prompting KPK to summon them to investigate potential bribery involving customs officials. This development follows a series of arrests and suspect designations in February 2026, including the seizure of Rp5.19 billion in cash linked to customs and excise corruption, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat graft in Indonesia's trade and taxation sectors.

During a meeting in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin welcomed Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and expressed appreciation for his visit, highlighting the warm bilateral relations. Putin proposed enhancing cooperation in key strategic sectors including energy, space, agriculture, heavy industry, pharmaceuticals, and humanitarian areas like education, while noting a 12% increase in economic and trade ties despite a slight slowdown earlier in 2026. As a significant partner for Russia in the Asia-Pacific and ASEAN, Indonesia benefits from this geo-economic and geopolitical alliance, with both leaders discussing solutions to sustain momentum through bilateral meetings.

Former UIN Malang lecturer Imam Muslimin, known as Yai Mim, died suddenly on Monday while being taken for questioning at Malang City Police Headquarters, where he was detained as a suspect in alleged sexual harassment, pornography, and related crimes stemming from a neighbourhood land dispute. The incident occurred around 13:45 WIB when Yai Mim collapsed en route to the investigators' room; despite immediate transport to Saiful Anwar Hospital, he was pronounced dead on arrival, with police stating he had no prior health complaints and normal vital signs that morning. Authorities are awaiting autopsy results to determine the exact cause of death, raising questions about conditions in custody amid the ongoing high-profile case.

In a tense continuation of the trial involving former Education Minister Nadiem Makarim over alleged irregularities in Chromebook laptop procurement, BPKP auditor Dedy Nurmawan Susilo testified that the state suffered losses totalling Rp 1.5 trillion across 2020 to 2022. The calculations, based on data from producers and distributors, determined a fair price of Rp 3.67 million per unit, incorporating a reasonable 15% margin. Tensions escalated as Nadiem's legal team reacted angrily to perceived accusations of fraud by the prosecutors.

The Directorate of Traffic of Metro Jaya Police is providing mobile driving licence (SIM Keliling) services at four locations in Jakarta on Tuesday to assist residents in renewing their valid driving permits. The service, available from 08:00 to 14:00 WIB, caters exclusively to extensions of SIM A and SIM C licences, requiring photocopies of valid ID, old and original SIM, health check proof, and psychology test proof, with fees of Rp80,000 for SIM A and Rp75,000 for SIM C as per Government Regulation No. 60 of 2016. SIM B renewals, intended for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes, must be processed at designated police administration offices.

The Directorate of Traffic of Metro Jaya Police is providing mobile Samsat services at 13 locations across Jakarta, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi on Tuesday to facilitate motor vehicle tax (PKB) payments. These services, operating between 8:00 and 15:00 WIB depending on the site, require taxpayers to bring original KTP, BPKB, STNK, and photocopies, but are limited to annual PKB renewals only. This initiative enhances accessibility for vehicle owners in the greater Jakarta area by bringing administrative services closer to communities.

Students from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law, led by the Student Executive Board (BEM UI), have demanded the expulsion of 16 suspects in a sexual assault case during a forum attended by the dean. The forum addressed allegations of sexual harassment by the suspects, with tensions rising when some did not initially attend due to parental restrictions, but all eventually participated after negotiations. The dean committed to imposing strict sanctions, potentially including dropout, pending the outcome of the investigation by the campus's sexual violence prevention task force, highlighting growing student activism against sexual misconduct in higher education.

Gold prices for UBS, Antam, and Galeri24 at Pegadaian's Sahabat platform in Jakarta have uniformly declined this Tuesday morning to Rp2,853,000, Rp2,931,000, and Rp2,838,000 per gram, respectively, down from Monday's levels of Rp2,890,000, Rp2,975,000, and Rp2,876,000. The article provides detailed pricing for various gram quantities of each brand, ranging from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram for Galeri24 and up to 500 grams for UBS, while noting that Antam prices on the official Logam Mulia site update after 8:30 AM WIB. This drop reflects ongoing fluctuations in the precious metals market, offering insights for investors and buyers in Indonesia's gold trade.

The emergence of upscale restaurants like Salira, which mimic traditional Indonesian warteg eateries but with premium pricing and luxurious amenities, highlights the financial pressures on Indonesia's middle class amid economic downturns. Data from BPS and Mandiri Institute reveal a significant decline in the middle class population, from 47.9 million in 2024 to 46.7 million in 2025, exacerbated by ongoing layoffs and high unemployment rates of 7.35 million people. Sociologists and cultural observers interpret these "fancy warteg" trends as adaptations to shrinking purchasing power, allowing the middle class to maintain social lifestyles affordably, while raising concerns about cultural appropriation by higher socioeconomic groups.

On Monday (13/4), Jakarta was marked by several key developments, including traffic management preparations by MRT Jakarta for the revitalisation of the Bundaran HI Station area, a MoU signed between the DKI Provincial Government and Pariaman City to secure rice supplies and stabilise prices, and Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo's target to complete the Rasuna Said area beautification by 22 June 2026 as a birthday gift for the capital. Additionally, nearly all political factions in the DKI DPRD urged the SPAM Regional Regulation Draft to protect low-income communities with affordable water access, while Pramono confirmed that tidying chaotic overhead cables is a priority programme, though it cannot be resolved instantly. These initiatives highlight the Jakarta administration's focus on infrastructure improvements, food security, and equitable public services.

Following the collapse of peace negotiations in Pakistan over Iran's refusal to compromise on its nuclear programme, US President Donald Trump has ordered a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to destroy any Iranian vessels that approach. Iranian leaders, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Navy Commander Shahram Irani, have dismissed the threats as absurd and vowed a strong response, warning of severe regional security implications if the blockade proceeds. This escalation risks disrupting a critical global shipping route and could ignite broader conflict in the Middle East, underscoring the fragility of international diplomacy in resolving nuclear and territorial disputes.

Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid has highlighted a sharp rise in digital fraud cases in Indonesia, including sextortion and persistent online gambling, posing significant challenges. Despite a 50% drop in online gambling activities reported by PPATK, public complaints remain high. A new MoU with the National Police aims to strengthen coordination and achieve a more significant reduction in such crimes over the next year.

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has introduced three key policies for the Financial Information Services System (SLIK) to support the government's priority programme of building 3 million homes, including displaying credit information above Rp1 million and accelerating loan repayment status updates to a maximum of three working days. Additionally, OJK will grant access to SLIK data for the National Housing Savings Management Agency (BP Tapera) and clarify that SLIK data is not the sole determinant for credit approvals. These measures, alongside the formation of a task force with relevant ministries and stakeholders, aim to streamline housing financing processes and address sector-specific challenges.

NasDem's Deputy Chairman Willy Aditya clarified that party leader Surya Paloh proposed a political bloc to Gerindra, rather than a merger or fusion, to counter transactional politics with a solid alliance from top to bottom. He criticised the misuse of the merger narrative, emphasising that historical party fusions in Indonesia were state-driven, and highlighted Surya Paloh's innovative thinking beyond mere coalitions. Drawing historical parallels, Aditya cited Golkar and Nasakom as examples of past political blocs in Indonesia's presidential system.

Perum Bulog has allocated Rp 68.6 trillion for absorbing paddy, soybeans, and maize as part of the government's efforts to bolster national food security without relying on imports. As of 13 April 2026, Bulog has achieved 48.7% of its 4 million tonne target for paddy equivalent to rice, with stocks nearing 5 million tonnes, supported by Presidential Instructions setting purchase prices at Rp 6,500 per kg for paddy and Rp 5,500 per kg for maize. This initiative underscores President Prabowo Subianto's commitment to protecting domestic farmers and ensuring stable food supplies amid global geopolitical challenges.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has defended Pope Leo XIV against attacks from US President Donald Trump, who criticised the Pope for condemning US military actions, and condemned Trump's social media post depicting himself as Jesus Christ. Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf praised the Pope's fearless stance against what he called US and Israeli war crimes. This rare public clash highlights escalating tensions between religious leaders and political figures over international conflicts, including the US-Israel actions in Iran.

Indonesian police are pursuing Tosan, a key partner of drug lord Andre Fernando alias 'The Doctor', who was recently arrested in Penang, Malaysia, for supplying narcotics to syndicates in West Nusa Tenggara and Jakarta nightclubs. Tosan has been added to the wanted list for his role in distributing drugs like methamphetamine, etomidate-laced vapes, and happy water to venues such as Whiterabbit in South Jakarta. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to dismantle cross-border drug networks involving corrupt officials and international smuggling routes.

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) is expected to begin a correction in today's trading session following a 0.56% rise to close at 7,500.18, with analysts from Binaartha Sekuritas forecasting a minor pullback to the 7,160-7,230 range amid resistance testing. To capitalise on opportunities, they recommend five stocks including ADRO, INKP, PGAS, PTBA, and UNVR, with specific buy zones and price targets for potential gains.

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) closed higher by 0.56% at 7,500.187 on Monday, driven by foreign investors' net buying of Rp 396.77 billion, primarily in energy sector stocks such as PT Petrosea Tbk and PT Petrindo Jaya Kreasi Tbk, amid global geopolitical tensions. While the rupiah's relative stability supports domestic market sentiment, foreign selling in banking stocks like PT Bank Mandiri Tbk highlights concerns over potential inflation and delayed interest rate cuts, pressuring financial sectors globally.

In response to the global energy crisis, the Indonesian-made alternative fuel Bobibos has held an audience with the Directorate General of Oil and Gas under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, presenting its readiness for advanced testing. The fuel, derived from agricultural waste like straw, claims zero emissions and improved efficiency, potentially reducing fuel import dependency and providing economic benefits to farmers. Officials have outlined upcoming road tests on vehicles and emphasised the need for technical evaluations and licensing before commercialisation.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has welcomed Indonesia's membership in BRICS starting in 2025, stating that it opens new avenues for strategic cooperation between the two nations. During a bilateral meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in the Kremlin, Putin highlighted a 12 percent increase in bilateral trade in 2025 and expressed hopes for further enhancement, while discussing partnerships in energy, agriculture, industry, pharmaceuticals, and the Eurasian Economic Union. Prabowo thanked Russia for its support in facilitating Indonesia's swift entry into BRICS and emphasised the need for closer economic and energy ties amid dynamic global geopolitics.

Indonesia faces a critical paradox in its much-touted demographic bonus, where a projected 70% of the population will be of working age by 2030-2040, yet recent academic competency test results reveal alarmingly low literacy and numeracy skills. With average scores in mathematics at 36.1 and English at 24.93 for high school students in 2025, the nation's human capital is undermined, threatening future economic productivity in a knowledge-based era. This shortfall stems from systemic failures in education, including inadequate implementation of higher-order thinking skills and persistent gaps in teacher quality, urging urgent structural reforms to harness the demographic dividend effectively.

Coal prices have rebounded sharply, closing at US$132.05 per tonne on Monday, up 1.7%, driven by rising global energy prices amid escalating conflict in the Middle East and speculative buying by Chinese traders. Despite weak underlying demand from utilities in China due to sufficient stockpiles, traders anticipate a potential surge in electricity consumption during the summer heatwave. Meanwhile, India's coal imports fell 8.5% in February to 16.55 million tonnes, as high domestic inventories and elevated international prices make local supplies more economical, highlighting the fragile nature of the current price rally.

Indonesia's tourism sector is booming, positioned as an economic driver generating foreign exchange and jobs, yet this growth often overlooks environmental stewardship. The column highlights paradoxes where development leads to ecological damage, such as deforestation for resorts and exploitation of water sources, resulting in disasters like flash floods and landslides. Drawing on Islamic principles, it urges a renewed consciousness of humanity's role as khalifah—stewards of the earth—emphasising the Quranic concept of mizan to balance progress with preservation.