Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 April 2026

Showing 101-150 of 1,583 articles

IMF Projection: Global Economic Growth to Slow to 3.1 Percent in 2026

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised downwards its forecast for global economic growth to 3.1 percent in 2026, citing geopolitical tensions, particularly conflicts in the Middle East, and surging energy prices as primary factors hindering recovery. Inflation is expected to rise to 4.4 percent, disproportionately affecting developing nations reliant on energy imports, while prolonged conflicts could push growth down to recessionary levels around 2 percent. This outlook underscores the fragility of post-pandemic stabilisation amid ongoing global disruptions.

Indonesia fast-tracks blue carbon pricing programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is advancing a blue carbon pricing programme through three pillars: regulatory development, data management for ecosystems, and pilot restoration projects in the fisheries sector. The initiative targets vast mangrove and seagrass areas with a combined CO2 sequestration potential of 10 million tons annually, integrating marine spatial planning and trading mechanisms under Presidential Regulation Number 110 of 2025. This effort aims to optimise environmental benefits while contributing to national targets and supporting coastal communities.

Tangsel City Government Sweeps BUMD Awards 2026

The Tangerang Selatan City Government has secured multiple prestigious awards at the TOP BUMD Awards 2026 held in Jakarta, with its regional development investment company, PITS, earning a five-star rating in the Perumdam category, alongside accolades for Top CEO BUMD and Top BUMD Mentor for Mayor Benyamin Davnie. Secretary Bambang Noertjahjo highlighted the achievement as a testament to the synergy between local authorities and BUMD entities in enhancing governance and performance to bolster the regional economy. The awards underscore the effectiveness of Tangsel's BUMD oversight and are expected to drive further improvements in quality, accountability, and innovation for sustainable public service contributions.

Golkar: Prabowo-Bahlil Work Tirelessly to Ensure Indonesia Safe from Energy Crisis

Golkar Party Secretary-General Muhammad Sarmuji has praised President Prabowo Subianto and Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia for their tireless efforts to secure Indonesia's energy supply amid global geopolitical tensions, particularly the US-Israel conflict with Iran disrupting world energy markets. Sarmuji highlighted Bahlil's lobbying across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Russia to diversify sources, while the Golkar faction in parliament supports government policies to accelerate energy diversification and strengthen domestic resilience. Prabowo has assured that fuel supplies remain sufficient without plans to raise subsidised fuel prices, preparing measures to mitigate potential crises over the next year.

Bank Kalsel Capable of Managing Foreign Exchange Transaction Value of Rp400 Trillion

The Head of the Financial Services Authority (OJK) in South Kalimantan has projected that Bank Kalsel could handle foreign exchange transactions worth up to Rp400 trillion, reflecting the province's substantial international trade potential. OJK has set a transitional period of three to six months for the bank to prepare for becoming a foreign exchange bank, after which it will gradually introduce and market foreign currency-based products to enhance services and competitiveness. This development aligns with government regulations requiring 100% of export proceeds in foreign exchange to be managed domestically for at least three months, presenting a key opportunity for Bank Kalsel to offer relevant banking solutions.

PAM Jaya: Dirty water in Cengkareng due to reduced raw water supply

PAM Jaya has attributed the dirty and odorous water supply in RT 05/RW 02, Rawa Buaya, Cengkareng, West Jakarta, to a temporary reduction in raw water supply from PDAM Tirta Kerta Raharja in Tangerang, caused by upstream issues in Bogor. This led to sediment being drawn into the distribution pipes, but the company has conducted flushing and assured residents that the water is now clear, advising them to run taps to clear any residual dirt. While long-term complaints persist due to the area's position at the end of the network and reliance on delayed national projects like SPAM Karian-Serpong, PAM Jaya is expanding infrastructure with four new water treatment plants to meet the 2029 target of 100% piped water coverage in Jakarta.

Traders Say Plastic Prices Up Over 50%, From Rp20,000 to Rp50,000

Rising global crude oil prices due to Middle East conflicts have driven up the cost of plastic packaging by over 50% at Jakarta's Tanah Abang Market, affecting retailers' operational expenses even as main product prices like clothing remain stable. Traders are adapting by reusing bags and encouraging customers to bring their own to cut costs and reduce waste. This illustrates how geopolitical tensions are first impacting ancillary costs in Indonesia's retail sector, with potential spillover to core goods looming.

Gianyar PMD Department Receives Village Construction Services Programme Award

The Gianyar Regency Community Empowerment and Village Department (PMD) has been awarded the Village Construction Services (Jakon) programme by the Bali, Nusa Tenggara, and Papua Regional Office of BPJS Ketenagakerjaan for successfully providing work protection and comfort to thousands of workers. This initiative registers 2,268 workers in village development projects, ensuring they receive safety guarantees funded through Village Revenue and Expenditure Budgets (APBDes). The achievement highlights strong collaboration among stakeholders and positions Gianyar as a national model for safeguarding village labourers.

Author Reveals the Real Panic Behind the Scenes Surrounding Trump

Author Anushka Astana describes a chaotic atmosphere in the White House under President Donald Trump's leadership, marked by rising tension and confusion amid escalating conflict with Iran and its economic repercussions. She highlights Trump's shift from domestic priorities to full military engagement, leading to economic downturns, public concerns, and a desire to end the intervention prematurely. Astana notes the president's increasingly angry and aggressive rhetoric on Truth Social as a sign of emotional strain and potential loss of crisis management balance.

KPK Probes Flow of Funds from Extortion by Inactive Tulungagung Regent

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the flow of funds from alleged extortion by inactive Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo, who was arrested in a sting operation last Friday along with several officials for accepting bribes and rigging project tenders. The probe focuses on contributions from 16 regional agency heads, tracing whether the funds came from personal sources, loans, or project conditioning practices, with potential examinations of local leadership coordination forum members regarding their use for holiday allowances. This case underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in regional governance, potentially implicating broader networks in East Java.

Bank Jakarta Continues Transformation Amid Industry Changes

Bank Jakarta is steadfast in its commitment to ongoing business transformation in response to rapid shifts in the banking industry, including technological advancements, evolving customer behaviours, and intensifying competition. CEO Agus Haryoto Widodo emphasised that adaptation through strategic initiatives is essential to remain relevant and meet growing customer needs, with a focus on innovation, digital services, and internal strengthening. This sustained effort is seen as key to maintaining competitiveness and delivering long-term performance in a fast-evolving sector.

Azerbaijan Accelerates Preparations to Host World Urban Forum WUF13

Azerbaijan is intensifying preparations to host the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku in May 2026, in collaboration with UN-Habitat, following its designation as host in December 2023. President Ilham Aliyev has declared 2026 the 'Year of Urban Planning and Architecture', highlighting initiatives like the Smart Village Aghali in Karabakh and the blend of historical and modern sites in Baku to promote sustainable urban development. The event, themed 'Making Cities and Communities Safe and Resilient', will bring together global leaders to discuss housing access, climate resilience, infrastructure, and social inclusivity in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, fostering international partnerships.

Stelina to Be Gradually Implemented as Export Requirement for Fisheries

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, is promoting the national traceability system Stelina (Sistem Ketelusuran dan Logistik Ikan Nasional) as a new standard for fisheries trade, which will become a key requirement for exporters. Implementation will proceed gradually, starting with major export commodities like tuna, shrimp, and crab, to meet international demands for traceability and sustainability certifications. The latest regulation, Ministerial Regulation KP No. 32 of 2024, expands Stelina's scope to the entire supply chain, aiming to enhance the transparency and market trust in Indonesian fishery products.

MPR and UII Forge Partnership to Bolster Constitutional Studies

The General Secretariat of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR RI) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) to enhance constitutional research and related initiatives. This collaboration, deemed strategically vital, extends beyond academic studies to include public relations, library development, and internship opportunities for UII students, while emphasising the education of young people on the MPR's Four Pillars: Pancasila, the 1945 Constitution, the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia, and Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. The partnership aims to foster greater civic understanding amid rising social media influence, potentially serving as a model for future ties with other universities.

YouTube Tests Two New Features "Auto Speed" and "On-the-go"

YouTube is testing two experimental features, "Auto Speed" and "On-the-go", exclusively for YouTube Premium users on Android devices. The "Auto Speed" feature enhances video playback speeds, potentially automating adjustments, while "On-the-go" switches to a YouTube Music-like interface after detecting sustained movement for at least 60 seconds, improving accessibility during mobility. These features, available until 27 April 2026, aim to provide easier control for users accessing videos on the move and may expand to more users in the future.

16 UI Law Faculty Students Suspected of Harassment Hold Positions in Campus Organisations

Sixteen students from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law, suspected of harassing 27 individuals within the faculty, occupy key positions in campus organisations, which initially deterred victims from reporting the incidents. The abuse, which began in 2025, affected 20 female students and seven lecturers, including peers and seniors of the perpetrators, with evidence gathered from a private LINE chat group. This case underscores significant power imbalances in academic settings and the challenges victims face in coming forward against influential figures.

Apology from Two Lebak Women Who Admit Fault in Stepping on the Qur'an

Two women from Lebak, Banten, identified as NR and MT, have been designated as suspects in an alleged religious blasphemy case after a video surfaced showing them stepping on the Qur'an during a swearing ritual over a missing makeup dispute. They have expressed regret and apologised while in police custody, with authorities emphasising that the method used desecrated the holy book by placing it underfoot rather than above the head. Police urge the public to remain calm and recommend resolving theft suspicions through legal channels to prevent such incidents.

The World of Work is Changing, Employees Are Already Feeling the Impact

A Gallup survey reveals that for the first time, half of US adult workers use AI at least a few times a year, with adoption driving changes in workforce composition, including expansions and reductions more frequently in AI-adopting firms. While 65% of employees in such companies report improved individual productivity, only one in ten see major transformations in overall workflows, highlighting a gap between personal efficiency gains and organisational redesign. Concerns about job loss due to AI have risen to 23% among those in adopting organisations, particularly affecting perceptions in large firms where reductions outpace expansions.

Minister of Population and Family Development Supports Nutri-level to Strengthen the Young Generation in Building Indonesia

Indonesia's Minister of Population and Family Development has endorsed the new Nutri-level nutrition labelling policy, viewing it as a crucial initiative to prevent non-communicable diseases among the youth by curbing excessive consumption of sugar, salt, and fat. The policy, a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Health, the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM), and other institutions, features a four-tier colour-coded system from A (safe levels) to D (excessive), aiming to educate families and promote healthier choices from an early stage. Health insurance provider BPJS Kesehatan has also praised the measure for its potential to reduce future healthcare burdens by fostering better public behaviour.

Purbaya Meets U.S. Investors, Outlines Indonesia’s Fiscal Strategy

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa met with major U.S. investors in New York and Washington, D.C., to present the country's strong macroeconomic fundamentals and future fiscal policy directions, aiming to bolster confidence amid recent concerns. Investors expressed interest in expanding investments in Indonesia after clarifications addressed doubts fueled by 'noise' and hasty revisions from international rating agencies. Purbaya emphasised the government's commitment to achieving targeted economic growth of 5.5 percent and ensuring sound policy implementation to attract more foreign investment.

Finance Minister Leads Talks to Bolster Indonesia’s Fiscal Reputation in US

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has conducted strategic meetings in New York and Washington, D.C., with major US financial institutions such as BlackRock and HSBC to reinforce investor confidence in the country's macroeconomic fundamentals and fiscal policies. The discussions addressed concerns raised by international rating agencies, emphasising the consistency of Indonesia's economic strategies and the potential for increased foreign investment if growth targets of around 5.5 percent are met. This diplomatic effort underscores the government's commitment to transparent communication and robust policy implementation to enhance Indonesia's appeal as an investment destination.

Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education: IFP Helps Students Understand Material and Better Prepare for Academic Ability Tests

Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Fajar Riza Ul Haq has highlighted the role of Interactive Flat Panels (IFP) in enhancing interactive learning and aiding students in grasping material more effectively, as directed by President Prabowo Subianto. During his visit to schools in West Nusa Tenggara, he monitored preparations for the Academic Ability Tests (TKA), which aim to assess literacy and numeracy to improve Indonesia's PISA scores without affecting graduation. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to quality education for all, emphasising the importance of character building alongside technological advancements in education.

Revealed: Total of 14 Satpol PP Bogor Members' Appointment Decrees Pawned by Superior

The Bogor City Secretary has disclosed that an official in the Satpol PP finance subunit pawned the appointment decrees of 14 fellow civil servants to secure loans from a bank, leading to deductions from their monthly allowances due to missed repayments over seven months. The official, identified as 'I', used the decrees without office-related purposes, treating it as a personal matter, which has sparked controversy over misuse of authority within the public sector. This incident highlights potential vulnerabilities in administrative oversight and the personal financial practices of government employees in Indonesia.

Gus Ipul Receives Audience from North Maluku Deputy Governor, Discusses Social Conflicts and People's Schools

Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, met with North Maluku Deputy Governor Sarbin Sehe to address critical issues including a deadly social conflict in Central Halmahera, the construction of permanent People's Schools, and the impacts of a 7.6-magnitude earthquake on Batang Dua Island. Gus Ipul reaffirmed the Ministry of Social Affairs' commitment to supporting affected communities through necessary aid and follow-up actions. The meeting also highlighted progress on school projects in Halmahera Barat and Utara, targeted for completion in June 2026, underscoring the government's focus on social welfare and disaster response in the region.

Nomination Registration Opens for Recipients of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity

The nomination process for the 2027 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity has opened, honouring individuals, institutions, and organisations that strengthen human brotherhood through humanitarian efforts and promote values of dialogue, tolerance, and solidarity. Established on the principles of the Document on Human Fraternity signed in 2019, the award carries a prize of US$1 million and has previously recognised 20 recipients from various countries, including Indonesia's prominent Islamic organisations Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama in 2024 for their work in promoting peace and international solidarity at the grassroots level. Nominations are accepted until 1 October 2026 via the official website, highlighting ongoing global commitments to humanitarian values.

Ministry of Social Affairs and Agrinas Discuss Absorption of PKH Recipients into Merah Putih Cooperatives

The Indonesian Minister of Social Affairs, Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul), met with the CEO of PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara, Joao Mota, to strengthen the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives by prioritising the recruitment of PKH social aid recipients as workers. Discussions covered institutional frameworks, recruitment, training, distribution systems, and digitalisation to ensure honest and realistic implementation that benefits rural communities. Agrinas will provide intensive training and transitional support for two years, enabling cooperatives to aggregate local produce, shorten supply chains, and return profits to villages, with several regions already prepared infrastructure-wise.

Plastic Prices Rise, Rice and Oil Prices Also Increase - Tempo.co

The Chairman of the Indonesian Food and Beverage Entrepreneurs Association, Adhi S. Lukman, has stated that the rising cost of plastic is directly causing price increases in food and beverage products due to its widespread use in packaging. Essential items like rice and cooking oil are among those affected, with the hikes specifically tied to packaging costs rather than the products themselves. This comes amid limited supplies of plastic, highlighting broader supply chain pressures in Indonesia's consumer goods sector.

Rosan Reveals Investment Interest in Indonesia Remains High

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani has highlighted that interest in investing in Indonesia remains strong despite global geopolitical and economic challenges, with the total number of Business Identification Numbers (NIBs) reaching 15.8 million from 2021 to 2026. Realised investment in the first quarter of 2026 hit Rp497 trillion, surpassing the Rp465 trillion target and growing 7% year-on-year, while job absorption increased by 5.5% to 627,036 workers. The government prioritises downstream industrialisation, which accounts for about 30% of total investments, with major contributors including Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, and the United States.

Police Officer at Central Java Police Training School Demoted 11 Years for Moral Violation

A police officer, Briptu BTS, has been demoted for 11 years by the Polri Code of Ethics Commission for allegedly recording a female police officer in the bathroom at the Central Java Police Training School dormitory. The severe sanction, based on Government Regulation No. 1 of 2003, also includes 20 days of special punishment, aiming to deter similar misconduct and uphold the integrity of Polri's educational institutions. This incident, reported in September 2025, highlights ongoing efforts to address sexual harassment within the Indonesian police force, with only one victim coming forward so far.

South Korea apologises over Bali travel advisory controversy: Ministry

The South Korean Embassy has apologised for a travel advisory on Bali that stemmed from an error by its Consul General, clarifying it was meant as a precaution for citizens without intending to damage the island's tourism image. The advisory has been updated to a more general form, with commitments to coordinate with Indonesian authorities on sensitive information and promote Bali's true tourism conditions in Korean media. Indonesia's Tourism Minister reaffirmed openness to Korean visitors while outlining enhanced security measures, including risk assessments, guest verification, increased police posts, and community collaborations to ensure safe tourism.

Chinese, Japanese, and Korean Brands Invade Jakarta, Premium Malls Become Hotly Contested

Jakarta's premium retail malls are experiencing a surge in demand, with occupancy rates exceeding 90% and leading to waiting lists for tenants, primarily driven by aggressive expansions from Chinese, Japanese, and South Korean brands. This phenomenon contrasts with lower-end malls still recovering from pre-pandemic levels, highlighting a booming high-end retail sector fueled by international retailers targeting affluent areas. The shift towards data-driven expansion strategies has strengthened mall owners' bargaining power, enabling strict tenant curation in key districts like Jakarta's CBD and southern areas.

US Military's Request for Access to Indonesian Airspace Causes Uproar: UI Professor's Response

A US request for blanket overflight clearance for its military aircraft through Indonesian airspace has raised concerns about Indonesia's neutral foreign policy stance. UI International Law Professor Hikmahanto Juwana warns that granting such permission could be perceived as aligning with US interests, potentially straining relations with nations like Iran amid geopolitical tensions. The Indonesian Defence Ministry has clarified that the circulating document is merely a draft under internal review, emphasising full sovereignty over national airspace and adherence to national and international law.

Michael Saylor Scoops Up 13,927 Bitcoins, Strategy Pumps in Rp17 Trillion

MicroStrategy, led by Michael Saylor, has acquired an additional 13,927 Bitcoins worth approximately US$1 billion (Rp17.13 trillion), funded entirely through the issuance of preferred shares called Stretch, bringing its total holdings to 780,897 BTC. This move underscores the company's long-term confidence in Bitcoin as a strategic asset, with average acquisition costs at US$75,577 per coin, amid recent Bitcoin price surges to US$74,608. However, the aggressive Bitcoin strategy has weighed on MicroStrategy's stock performance, which has declined 59% over the past year to US$128.64 per share.

Indonesian Military Constructs Bailey Bridge in Probolinggo Following Landslide

Personnel from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) have begun installing a temporary Bailey bridge in Probolinggo Regency, East Java, after a landslide severed the road to Madakaripura Waterfall over a 20-metre stretch. The engineering unit from Batalyon Zeni Tempur V/Arathi Bhaya Wighina in Malang aims to complete the project within 14 days to restore access to the popular tourist site. This initiative underscores the military's role in supporting disaster recovery and infrastructure rehabilitation in vulnerable areas.

Minister of Hajj Ready to Halt Discussion on Hajj War Ticket

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has stated that the concept of a 'war ticket' for Hajj remains in the discussion phase and will be paused if deemed too premature, prioritising the upcoming Hajj preparations. He acknowledged introducing the term himself and emphasised focusing on current Hajj arrangements before exploring new policies. The proposal has sparked debate on social media, with concerns about accessibility for rural and less tech-savvy pilgrims, as well as the fate of long-waiting applicants and potential fraud risks.

Chinese-linked tanker crosses Strait of Hormuz despite US blockade

A tanker associated with China, under US sanctions for aiding Iran in evading energy restrictions, successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz to the Gulf of Oman on its second attempt amid a US blockade initiated by President Trump following failed negotiations with Tehran. This escalation, triggered by US-Israel strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliations, has imposed a de facto blockade on the vital oil and LNG shipping route from Persian Gulf nations to global markets, disrupting exports and production. Despite a two-week ceasefire announced by Trump, the strait remains closed, heightening concerns over international energy supply chains.

Victims of Alleged Harassment at FH UI: 20 Female Students and 7 Lecturers

The lawyer representing victims of alleged sexual harassment at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law (FHUI) has revealed that there are 20 female students and 7 lecturers affected, with the incidents occurring since 2025. Victims have endured ongoing distress upon entering campus and classes, knowing that perpetrators could discuss and harass them via a private group. The lawyer urges the university to take decisive action, including expulsion, and calls on parents and alumni not to normalise such behaviour.

APTI urges government to cancel tobacco tar and nicotine restrictions

The Indonesian Tobacco Farmers Association (APTI) has called on the government to abandon plans to limit tar to a maximum of 10 milligrams and nicotine to 1 milligram in cigarette products, warning that such measures would devastate tobacco production centres in regions including Central Java, East Java, NTB, and West Java, and threaten the livelihoods of farmers and workers. APTI has voiced its opposition through meetings with ministries and a formal letter to the President, highlighting the policy's disregard for Indonesia's unique tobacco characteristics and the excessive imports of over 140,000 tonnes compared to domestic production of around 200,000 tonnes. Temanggung Regent Agus Setyawan supports the stance, noting the potential harm to local farmers whose tobacco naturally exceeds the proposed limits, and has urged a policy review to sustain the sector's economic role.

Temanggung DPRD Member Resigns After Report of Alleged Assault on Woman

A member of the Temanggung Regency DPRD, identified by initials NR, has resigned following a police report accusing him of assaulting a female companion at a karaoke venue in Bandungan, Semarang Regency. The incident occurred on the night of 10 April, during an outing from Temanggung, and NR admitted to the act during clarification with his party, PPP, amid prior concerns over his track record. This resignation underscores accountability issues within local politics, particularly for replacement members under scrutiny.

Business Leader Warns That Impact of Plastic Price Hike Could Become Even More Unpredictable

Indonesian business leaders have cautioned that the recent surge in plastic raw material prices, which has risen by 25% to 100% since early April 2026, is significantly affecting industries reliant on plastic packaging, particularly the bottled water sector where production costs have increased by 35% to 45%. Apindo's labour sector head, Bob Azam, highlighted the broad potential impacts across products using plastic packaging and urged companies to avoid layoffs in response to rising costs, while also seeing opportunities for innovation in substitute materials. This development underscores the vulnerability of Indonesia's manufacturing base to global supply chain fluctuations and the need for sustainable alternatives in the packaging industry.

Purbaya Reveals Results of Discussions with BlackRock and Others in the US

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa reported positive interest from global investors, including BlackRock and HSBC, following his discussions in the United States on 13 April 2026, where he outlined Indonesia's economic and fiscal conditions. The investors expressed confidence in Indonesia's fiscal policies after addressing initial concerns about debt prospects and fiscal management, with Purbaya highlighting the government's strategy to achieve targeted economic growth of 5.5% to further encourage investments. This engagement underscores efforts to bolster investor confidence amid global uncertainties.

ULM Rector Affirms Transparency in New Student Admission System Before Parliament

The Rector of Universitas Lambung Mangkurat (ULM), Prof Ahmad Alim Bachri, has reaffirmed the university's commitment to transparency and accountability in its new student admission system (SPMB) during a visit by Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission X in Banjarmasin. ULM has eliminated the institutional development fee (IPI) in its independent admission pathway to broaden access for students from all socioeconomic backgrounds, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academically capable individuals from pursuing higher education. Commission X Chair Hetifah Sjaifudian praised ULM's initiatives for promoting social justice in education while maintaining academic standards, and plans to incorporate university feedback to improve future policies.

Purbaya Assures Global Investors of Indonesia's Fiscal Resilience - BCA Sekuritas

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa reassured global investors in New York and Washington DC about Indonesia's robust macroeconomic fundamentals and forward-looking fiscal strategies. He addressed concerns over perceived fiscal issues, emphasizing that Indonesia's policies are on the right track and providing assurances to major players like HSBC, BlackRock, and Lazard. The meetings highlighted strong investor interest in Indonesia, with positive feedback urging improved communication, countering premature downgrades by international rating agencies.

Psychologist Explains the Roots of Sexual Violence, from Parenting Patterns to Environment

A psychologist has highlighted the interconnected roots of sexual violence, particularly in educational settings, stemming from flawed parenting practices and societal environments that prioritise individual desires over empathy. Boys raised to suppress emotions and assert dominance often fail to respect others as individuals, leading to harmful behaviours. Teaching empathy from an early age is crucial to prevent such issues, as its absence allows perpetrators to remain oblivious to the pain they inflict.

Emphasising Collaboration and Data Openness, Deputy Interior Minister Wiyagus Highlights TB Handling in Bandar Lampung

Deputy Interior Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration, data transparency, and proactive community engagement in accelerating tuberculosis (TB) control efforts in Indonesia, particularly in Bandar Lampung. Speaking at a commitment-strengthening event, he underscored the central government's three-year target to eradicate TB, backed by presidential attention, and urged local authorities to provide accurate data and eliminate stigma to enhance intervention effectiveness. This initiative ties into broader national development goals, including improving public productivity and human resources towards Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045.

Maluku Regional Police Designate Civil Servant from Prosecutor's Office as Suspect in Fraud Case

The Maluku Regional Police have named FS, a civil servant from the Maluku Prosecutor's Office, as a suspect in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case stemming from a December 2025 report. Despite technical challenges in examining witnesses, investigators secured evidence including agreements and receipts, leading to FS's formal designation on 12 March 2026 after failing to attend summonses twice. Authorities plan to issue an arrest warrant to ensure legal certainty, underscoring their commitment to handling cases involving public officials professionally and without bias.

Parliament: Additional Hajj Costs Must Be Covered by the State

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII has urged the government to bear the additional costs of Hajj flights arising from rising aviation fuel prices and currency fluctuations, rather than passing them on to pilgrims. The proposed increase totals Rp1.78 trillion, with the Ministry of Religious Affairs coordinating with the Attorney General's Office to ensure legal compliance under relevant laws and Hajj funding regulations. This stance aims to maintain accountability in state budgeting while safeguarding pilgrims from financial burdens.

The Salty Sashimi of the Banda Sea: A Journey Through Inasua History

In the Maluku province, the Teon Nila Serua (TNS) community preserves the ancient tradition of inasua, an anaerobically fermented dish made from deep-sea oilfish and salt, which has historically ensured food security during voyages and harsh weather, while retaining a tender, sashimi-like texture. Despite relocation due to volcanic threats in the 1970s, the practice endures, with diaspora demand driving shipments to urban areas like Jakarta, and recent festivals and workshops aiming to modernize its packaging for broader markets. Recognised as Indonesia's Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2015, inasua supports conservation by promoting sustainable fishing practices and long-term food preservation.

UI Law Faculty Case: What Should the Campus Do When Sexual Violence Occurs?

A sexual violence case involving 16 students from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the irony of such violations occurring in an institution dedicated to studying law and justice. Legal expert Siti Aminah Tardi emphasises the need for renewed efforts in preventing sexual violence and gender-based discrimination, alongside establishing accessible complaint channels and providing victim support. She also stresses the importance of firm, uncompromising action against perpetrators to break the cycle of sexual violence in educational settings.

OJK Approves Merger of BPR Artha Mlatiindah with BPR Artha Mertoyudan

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has approved the business merger of PT Bank Perekonomian Rakyat (BPR) Artha Mlatiindah into PT BPR Artha Mertoyudan, formalised through a decree dated 13 March 2026. This consolidation is expected to bolster the institutional capacity, operational efficiency, and governance of BPR Artha Mertoyudan, enhancing its role in serving communities and financing productive sectors, particularly SMEs. The move aligns with Indonesia's Law No. 4 of 2023 on the Development and Strengthening of the Financial Sector, aiming to create a more resilient and competitive BPR industry, with OJK committing to oversee the integration process to ensure compliance and consumer protection.