Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto arrived in Moscow to strengthen bilateral ties with Russia, meeting President Vladimir Putin to enhance cooperation in economy, energy, space, agriculture, industry, and pharmaceuticals, amid appreciation for Russia's support on BRICS membership. The DPR's Legislation Body outlined the One Data Indonesia (SDI) Bill to produce National Basic Data as a primary reference for national and regional development planning, emphasising integration, sovereignty, and legal certainty. The Defence Ministry reaffirmed full government control over Indonesian airspace, while NasDem responded to merger rumours with Gerindra as a normal political occurrence.

In a meeting with former President Joko Widodo in Solo, PSI's daily chairman Bestari Barus discussed various political matters, including Jusuf Kalla's recent call for Widodo to publicly display his diploma. Barus recounted laughing heartily with Widodo over the demand, which echoes past controversies, and countered by challenging Kalla to reveal his own diploma and marriage certificate to the public. This exchange highlights ongoing political banter among Indonesian figures, potentially stirring public discourse on transparency and personal credentials in politics.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a five-hour meeting in Moscow, agreeing to strengthen cooperation in strategic sectors including energy, mineral resources, and downstream processing. The discussions also covered commitments to expand partnerships in education, research, technology, agriculture, and investments, particularly in industrial development in Indonesia. This meeting underscores the growing bilateral ties, with the leaders having met five times in the past year, highlighting Russia's strategic global position as a key partner for Indonesia's long-term development.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Marjani, aide to former Riau Governor Abdul Wahid, as a suspect in the 'thug's share' extortion case involving the coercion of subordinates in the Riau Public Works Department to pay bribes totalling Rp 7 billion across three instances in 2025. Marjani played a crucial role in collecting these funds on behalf of the governor, with detailed transactions revealing portions of the money being funneled through intermediaries and some siphoned for personal use. This development underscores the ongoing investigation into systemic corruption within Riau's provincial government, potentially extending to other sectors.

The ambitious US$975 million deal involving global TikTok star Khaby Lame is under severe pressure as shares of partner company Rich Sparkle Holdings have plummeted nearly 90% from over US$180 to around US$11. Lame's compensation, tied to 75 million new shares at an indicative US$13 each, now risks significant devaluation depending on market prices, though the agreement awaits final approval from stock authorities. Analysts criticise the venture's optimistic US$4 billion annual sales projection for Lame's AI avatar in e-commerce and endorsements, citing underdeveloped live commerce markets outside China and the high risks of influencer-dependent business models.

President Prabowo Subianto has arrived in Paris after a five-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, marking the continuation of his diplomatic tour. He is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace to strengthen strategic cooperation between Indonesia and France. The discussions will also cover Indonesia's perspectives on global dynamics, emphasising efforts to maintain stability and promote world peace, underscoring Prabowo's active role in international diplomacy.

Indonesian economic ministers, including Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, and Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto, have expressed confidence in the nation's solid economic fundamentals despite global pressures slowing investments. Key indicators such as debt-to-GDP ratio, budget deficit, and growth—reaching 5.11% last year, the highest in the G20—remain stable, with contingency plans in place for potential oil price spikes from conflicts like in Iran. The government is enhancing the investment climate through streamlined permitting and regulatory certainty, viewing geopolitical challenges as opportunities due to Indonesia's open foreign policy and political stability.

The Jakarta Outer Ring Road (JORR) toll road, a vital connector in the Greater Jakarta area, is undergoing reconstruction work at the Cikunir Canalisation section towards Serpong to maintain optimal asphalt conditions amid high traffic volumes. The repairs are divided into two phases: the first from 13 to 16 April 2026 on the outer shoulder lane, and the second from 17 to 20 April 2026 on Lane 2, potentially causing traffic congestion during peak hours. Authorities will deploy safety signs and customer service personnel to mitigate disruptions, underscoring the importance of infrastructure upkeep for smooth mobility and logistics distribution.

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized 1 million US dollars allegedly prepared by former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to influence the DPR's Special Committee on Hajj. The funds, sourced from levies on hajj travel organisers, were intended as bribes but were rejected and not used, according to KPK investigations. This development underscores ongoing anti-corruption efforts in managing religious pilgrimages and parliamentary oversight.

The United States has initiated a naval blockade on ships exiting Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz following failed peace negotiations in Islamabad, escalating tensions in the ongoing US-Iran conflict and driving oil prices above US$100 per barrel. Wall Street indices surged as investors anticipate a potential deal, with technology stocks leading the gains, while the rupiah experienced a slight weakening against the dollar. This geopolitical strife risks prolonging global economic pressures through higher energy costs, with mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey set to resume talks amid threats of further military action.

A finance official at the Bogor City Satpol PP, identified as IJ, has been accused of using subordinates' appointment letters as collateral for personal loans from a bank, rather than for official purposes. The scheme came to light in 2025 after victims reported delayed repayments to the Bogor City Personnel and Human Resources Development Agency (BKPSDM), prompting an internal investigation. This incident highlights vulnerabilities in public sector financial practices and potential misuse of authority within government institutions.

Iran has firmly rejected the United States' proposal to participate in regulating shipping through the Strait of Hormuz during recent negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan. Discussions also covered Iran's nuclear programme, with Tehran offering to reduce its enriched uranium stockpile by 430 kilograms as a gesture of goodwill, though the US withdrew from a proposed coalition involving Saudi Arabia. The talks concluded without agreement, attributed by Iranian officials to excessive US demands, underscoring ongoing tensions in international diplomacy.

The Indonesian Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports a positive trend in government securities (SBN) trading throughout 2025, with average daily transaction values reaching Rp60 trillion, reflecting heightened investor confidence amid global financial dynamics. Ownership of tradable SBN grew by 8.67% year-on-year, while repurchase agreement (repo) activities accounted for 35% of total transactions, predominantly driven by interbank deals exceeding 70%. The Indonesia Stock Exchange's Alternative Market Organiser System (SPPA) recorded a staggering 461.6% surge in total transaction value to Rp1,382.1 trillion, underscoring deepening liquidity and market-driven mechanisms in the domestic debt market.

The Secretary of Commission A of the DKI DPRD, Mujiyono, has praised the police for arresting an extortionist targeting a bajaj driver in Tanah Abang, Jakarta, but urges the provincial government to implement systemic oversight to curb recurring thuggery in high-traffic commercial areas. He highlights the need for routine coordination among local authorities, including Dishub, Satpol PP, and community forums like FKDM, alongside better parking management and CCTV surveillance to ensure public safety and order. This case underscores broader urban governance challenges in maintaining a secure environment in Jakarta as it aspires to global city status.

Private fuel stations in Indonesia, such as those operated by BP-AKR and Shell, adjust fuel prices in line with government policies and market dynamics, including global oil prices and domestic demand, rather than arbitrarily. The government, led by Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia, is currently calculating adjustments for non-subsidised fuels in consultation with Pertamina and private businesses, hoping for a decline in Indonesia Crude Price (ICP) to ease costs. Meanwhile, stock shortages persist at private stations, with Shell facing empty pumps in some areas until mid-April 2026 and Vivo Energy struggling with availability of certain grades like Revvo 90, highlighting broader challenges in fuel distribution.

President Prabowo Subianto arrived in Paris from Moscow on the evening of 13 April 2026, following a five-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. He is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace the next day to strengthen strategic cooperation between Indonesia and France, while also articulating Indonesia's stance on global stability and peace. The visit underscores Prabowo's efforts to navigate geopolitical uncertainties through enhanced economic and energy ties with key partners like Russia and France.

In a significant escalation following failed weekend talks, the United States has announced a naval blockade on Iranian ports, prompting two Iran-linked tankers to exit the Gulf and others to avoid the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting vital energy shipping routes. President Donald Trump clarified that the blockade targets only Iranian port traffic without restricting navigation through the strait, though Iran's Revolutionary Guard warned of forceful responses to approaching military vessels. This development threatens global oil flows, particularly to key buyers like China and India, heightening tensions in the strategic waterway.

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology is urging private universities (PTS) to introduce new study programmes aligned with industry needs to better compete with public universities in attracting students. Director General Muhammad Najib emphasised the importance of innovative, technology-focused programmes like AI and data science, alongside industry partnerships to ensure graduate employability. Policy adjustments, such as limiting public university quotas and adjusting admission schedules, are being implemented to support PTS growth, underscoring the need for quality and relevance in higher education to meet market demands.

West Jakarta faces a significant waste management challenge, generating approximately 807,966 tonnes of waste annually, with only 26% being recycled or reused. Recent viral social media posts have highlighted accumulating garbage at locations such as outside Kopro Market in Grogol Petamburan, the West Flood Canal road, and the Angke Flats in Tambora, causing foul odours, slippery conditions, and structural damage like the collapse of a vegetable vendor's wall due to leachate and piled refuse. Local traders express frustration over the impacts on their businesses and call for permanent solutions, underscoring the need for improved municipal waste handling to address ongoing public health and economic concerns.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto described his recent meetings with Russian officials and company representatives as highly productive, highlighting rapid progress in bilateral cooperation across various sectors following agreements made months earlier. During his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, Prabowo noted that while most initiatives are advancing swiftly, a few areas require acceleration, which he plans to address personally. Putin expressed satisfaction with the implementation of their strategic partnership declaration, underscoring its significant meaning for Indonesia-Russia relations.

Prospective Hajj pilgrims from Cimahi City and West Bandung Regency in West Java will be flown to the Holy Land from West Java International Airport (BIJB) Kertajati for the 2026 Hajj season, with departures scheduled for 26 April and 7 May in specific klotters. They will first gather at the West Java Hajj Dormitory in Indramayu, with all administrative preparations, including visas and luggage distribution, completed for the 556 pilgrims and four officials. This arrangement highlights the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs' coordination for regional embarkation to streamline the pilgrimage process.

The Badung Regency Government has completed renovations on 151 out of 246 primary schools by 2025, with over 20 junior secondary schools also addressed, focusing on structures built in 2016-2017 that suffered severe damage. For 2026, the Education, Youth, and Sports Office is handling 53 repair packages for primary schools and 30 maintenance packages for weather-related disasters, requiring a total budget of Rp 247 billion to fully resolve all issues. Additionally, plans include building new classrooms and utilities in secondary schools at a cost of Rp 66.2 billion, underscoring the regency's commitment to improving educational infrastructure amid funding shortfalls.

In recent days, former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla has faced sharp criticism from Christian groups over his comments on religious misunderstandings that exacerbated communal conflicts in Poso and Ambon. The author, who assisted Kalla in drafting the Malino Declaration for peace in 2001 and 2002, clarifies that Kalla's remarks were taken out of context, highlighting how both Muslim and Christian factions wrongly believed killing opponents led to paradise. This column defends Kalla's intent to promote reconciliation by stressing that no religion justifies murder as a path to heaven, urging a fuller understanding of the historical context to counter misinterpretations.

Indonesia faces persistently low literacy rates, as evidenced by its poor performance in the 2022 PISA assessments, highlighting structural issues in education and society that demand comprehensive interventions. Key factors contributing to this include weak reading culture, unequal access to resources, inadequate teaching quality, unsupportive family environments, digital distractions, and fragmented policy implementation. Proposed strategic solutions emphasise ecosystem-based collaborations across sectors, transforming education to focus on critical thinking, strengthening family and community roles, and optimising digital literacy to foster a nationwide reading culture and enhance human resource development.

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration conducted Operation Wirawaspada from 7 to 11 April 2026, resulting in the apprehension of 346 foreign nationals nationwide for immigration violations. The majority of those detained were from China (183 individuals), followed by Pakistan (21), Nigeria (20), and Japan (13), with others from countries including Singapore, South Korea, and India. This operation underscores the government's ongoing efforts to enforce immigration laws and maintain border security.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has detained Marjani, the inactive aide to the Riau Governor, for 20 days on allegations of extortion and receiving gratuities related to a bribery scheme in the provincial Public Works Department. The case stems from a 2025 arrangement where department heads agreed to pay a 5% fee, equivalent to Rp7 billion, to Abdul Wahid, the department head, for securing a budget increase from Rp71.6 billion to Rp177.4 billion, with threats of dismissal for non-compliance. KPK's operation resulted in the arrest of several individuals, seizure of Rp1.6 billion in cash, and ongoing investigations into the money trail, underscoring persistent corruption risks in Indonesia's regional government infrastructure sectors.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has expressed a desire for vehicle tax payment services at Samsat offices across the province to become as efficient and effective as banking services, aiming to simplify the process for citizens. He highlighted recent improvements, such as the elimination of the need to present the original owner's ID for annual payments, and urged public services to emulate the user-friendly practices of banks, like easy ATM replacements and transfers without passbooks. This push for streamlined government services is intended to encourage compliance and make tax payments less burdensome for the public.

Former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim expressed a mix of relief and sorrow following the examination of over 50 prosecution witnesses in his corruption trial over the procurement of Chromebook laptops. He highlighted that the testimonies proved no personal gain, no fund transfers, no criminal intent, and no actual state losses amounting to Rp 2.1 trillion, yet he lamented the ordeal's impact on his family and questioned why it happened to him. The case involves allegations of irregularities in the procurement process for Chromebooks and Chrome Device Management, alongside three other defendants from the ministry.

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has highlighted the case of a 1.5-year-old toddler who suffered hypothermia after being taken hiking on Mount Ungaran by her parents, urging it as a lesson for all parents on child safety. KPAI Commissioner Ai Rahmayanti emphasised the physical vulnerability of young children to extreme conditions and called for age limits on hiking activities along with public education on safe child activities. The incident, which went viral on social media, involved swift rescue by SAR teams, and the child was safely returned home, underscoring the need to prioritise child protection in everyday parenting decisions.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has arrested Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo for alleged extortion of subordinates to fund Eid al-Fitr bonuses, marking the sixth such operation against regional heads in 2026 alone. This recurring pattern of corruption highlights systemic issues in local governance, including flawed procurement processes and patronage networks enabled by heads' authority over personnel decisions. Experts call for stronger enforcement, public involvement in evaluations, and better implementation of merit-based systems to break the cycle.

Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW) has raised concerns over the increasing number of regional heads ensnared in Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operations in early 2026, with at least six cases adding to the tally of 2024 election officials implicated in corruption. The watchdog attributes this surge to exorbitant political costs, where corrupt funds are often diverted to cover campaign expenses or debts, as exemplified by the case of former Lampung Regent Ardito Wijaya, who admitted to soliciting project fees worth Rp 5.75 billion. ICW further criticises inadequate campaign finance reporting, reliance on illegal practices like political bribes and vote-buying, and the weakened independence of internal government oversight bodies, which hampers effective controls.

State-owned electricity company PT PLN plans to decommission 2,139 diesel power plants across 741 locations in Indonesia to reduce reliance on imported fuel oil and lower energy costs. The initiative, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, will replace these plants with alternative sources such as micro-hydro and solar power equipped with battery storage systems, aiming to enhance national energy security and transition to renewable energy. This move is expected to save up to 200,000 barrels of imported fuel per day from closing just 13 plants initially, with a broader goal of building 100 GW of solar capacity within two years to eliminate fuel imports entirely.

Former Minister of Education Nadiem Makarim raised questions about a recent Constitutional Court decision (Number 28/PUU-XXIV/2026) during the ongoing trial of the alleged Chromebook laptop procurement case, focusing on the authority of the Financial Audit Board (BPK) to officially determine state financial losses. Legal expert Suparji explained that while other institutions like BPKP can calculate losses as input, only BPK or the court can establish them definitively, and the ruling emphasises that state losses must be based on actual, certain calculations rather than potential ones. This development underscores the judicial emphasis on precise accountability in corruption cases involving public funds.

President Prabowo Subianto faces increasing domestic opposition to Indonesia's membership in the US-led Board of Peace (BoP), originally aimed at Gaza reconstruction, amid escalating regional conflicts including the US-Israeli war on Iran and the deaths of three Indonesian peacekeepers in Lebanon. Public surveys indicate over 50% disapproval, with coalition parties like Golkar and PKS urging a reassessment, while opposition figures demand full withdrawal to uphold Indonesia's 'free and active' foreign policy. Prabowo has hinted at possible exit if the BoP proves counterproductive, highlighting the tension between maintaining US ties and addressing national sentiments.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss the rapidly changing global geopolitical landscape and the need for direct consultations amid uncertainties. The leaders highlighted the strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in economy and energy sectors, with Putin noting a 12.5% increase in bilateral trade last year and potential collaborations in areas like space, agriculture, industry, pharmaceuticals, and education. Prabowo's visit underscores Indonesia's full membership in BRICS as a new avenue for strategic partnerships with Russia, reinforcing both nations' roles in maintaining international stability.

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has announced that the government is securing new supplies of plastic raw materials from India, the United States, and African countries to counter global supply chain disruptions caused by Middle East conflicts. Import processes from these sources are underway, with expectations that increased domestic supply will lead to a gradual decline in plastic prices starting this month. The minister noted that while traditional suppliers from the Middle East dominate, efforts continue to diversify sources, including coordination with overseas trade representatives, as the crisis affects multiple Asian producers like Taiwan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt military operations in southern Lebanon and engage in direct peace talks with the Lebanese government, expressing deep concerns over developments in the Palestinian territories and opposing any de facto annexation of parts of the West Bank. Merz offered Germany's ongoing support for diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran amid the Israel-US war launched on 28 February, while highlighting growing worries about its potential to escalate into a regional conflict due to Iranian retaliatory strikes and threats to Gulf states. He affirmed Germany's readiness to contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz only after hostilities cease, as shipping through this vital route—carrying about 20 percent of global oil supplies—has been largely halted by Iranian threats, exacerbated by a partial US naval blockade declared by President Donald Trump.

The Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD DKI) is prioritising clean water supply and disaster risk reduction as the region braces for an extended dry season exacerbated by El Niño. Efforts include coordinating with agencies like PAM Jaya and the Water Resources Department to stockpile water, deploy tanker trucks and mobile treatment units, and educate the public on conservation. Additionally, to mitigate fire risks in densely populated areas due to extreme heat, BPBD is monitoring and repairing electrical installations in low-income settlements and urging residents to maintain electrical devices carefully.

Perum Bulog's CEO, Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, has confirmed that the procurement of 146 kiosks in PD Pasar Jaya markets in Jakarta is progressing, aimed at enhancing the distribution of strategic food commodities like rice, MinyaKita oil, and sugar to retailers. This initiative, coordinated with DKI Jakarta authorities, seeks to reduce logistics costs, improve efficiency, and stabilise prices by providing direct access points in markets, serving only registered retailers with valid business IDs. As a pilot project in the capital, which serves as a national price barometer, successful implementation could expand to regions like West Java and East Java, supported by a memorandum of understanding with the provincial government.

Perum Bulog's Director General, Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, has directed regional offices to immediately conduct market operations for MinyaKita cooking oil to address shortages and ensure prices align with the government's maximum retail price of Rp15,700 per litre. This follows public complaints about prices exceeding the cap and comes after a national evaluation meeting focusing on food price stability, including rice which contributed 0.03% to inflation. Bulog plans to lead operations in Jakarta this week, emphasising commitment to stabilising essential commodity prices in line with President Prabowo Subianto's directives, while requesting additional quotas from the Ministry of Trade.

Indonesia's Minister of Investment, Rosan Roeslani, has stated that escalating global geopolitical tensions present significant opportunities for attracting foreign investment, thanks to the country's open and non-aligned foreign policy. This stance has positioned Indonesia favourably with major global powers including the US, Western countries, China, and Russia, enhancing its appeal amid uncertainties in regions like the Middle East. Roeslani highlighted the role of political stability, security, and active diplomacy under President Prabowo Subianto in boosting investor confidence.

PT Bank Sahabat Sampoerna has revamped its Sampoerna Mobile Banking app with a modern UI/UX design, streamlined navigation, and enhanced features like online deposit openings, transaction proof templates, and promotional transaction fees to improve customer convenience. Key updates include Quick Access for faster favourite services, Effortless Savings for seamless account and deposit management without branch visits, and Easier Navigation for intuitive menu structures, all bolstered by improved security measures. The redesign, featuring a teal and maroon colour scheme aligned with the bank's branding, aims to deliver a more practical, efficient, and secure digital banking experience for both new and existing customers.

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has disclosed a proposal to extend Aceh's special autonomy funds, set to expire in 2027, and potentially increase the allocation from 1% to 2% of the national budget, citing the province's high poverty and unemployment rates compared to national averages. This push comes amid ongoing recovery efforts from devastating floods and landslides in November 2025, which have damaged infrastructure, homes, and schools, with full restoration expected to take up to three years. Tito supports the extension, drawing parallels to Papua's increased funding, as a means to aid Aceh's rehabilitation and development.

Rising global demand for fertiliser amid international distribution disruptions presents Indonesia with a significant opportunity to boost urea exports, according to agricultural officials. Countries such as India, Australia, and the Philippines have shown interest in importing from Indonesia, one of the world's largest urea producers. PT Pupuk Indonesia, with an annual production capacity of 9.4 million tonnes of urea, can export 1.5 to 2 million tonnes without compromising domestic supplies, strengthening Indonesia's position in the global market.

Bulog's CEO, Ahmad Rizal Ramdhani, has called on regional and branch leaders to accelerate the absorption of rice paddy from farmers to meet the national target of 4 million tonnes, amid potential impacts from El Niño and global geopolitical tensions. With the peak harvest period coinciding with the height of El Niño in June-July, the hot weather is expected to aid drying and improve paddy quality, boosting Bulog's optimism for achieving the goal and ensuring national food supply stability. This effort aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's emphasis on food security, supported by enhanced synergies with ministries, state-owned enterprises, and weather agencies to counter climate challenges.

ASEAN nations are pressing the United States and Iran to resume negotiations to end the Middle East conflict and ensure safe shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, vital for global oil trade. Southeast Asian countries like the Philippines and Malaysia, heavily reliant on Middle Eastern oil, are facing fuel shortages due to the strait’s effective closure amid the US-Israel-Iran war. Foreign ministers from the 11 ASEAN members agreed to call for full implementation of a two-week ceasefire and the restoration of uninterrupted maritime transit, highlighting the economic stakes as 20% of world oil trade passes through the strait, with 80% destined for Asian markets.

The Directorate General of Immigration is conducting an internal investigation into allegations of illegal levies (pungli) imposed on foreign nationals in Batam, Riau Islands, involving the suspension and examination of the regional immigration head and the Batam immigration office chief. While the immigration authority is handling disciplinary actions against its officials, it has deferred the criminal probe into the extortion to other law enforcement agencies, emphasising its openness to cooperation. Newly appointed Director General Hendarsam Marantoko has vowed zero tolerance for such violations under his leadership, aligning with the agency's commitment to serve the public without causing harm.

Prospective Hajj pilgrims in Indramayu have mixed reactions to the proposed auction system for Hajj departure tickets, aimed at addressing long waiting lists. While some like Susyani see it as a faster way to embark on the pilgrimage, others worry about fairness to long-waiting registrants, elderly pilgrims with limited tech access, and potential for ticket scalping. The local Hajj and Umrah Office confirms no official socialisation from the Ministry yet.

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono, Deputy Speaker of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), emphasised the need for a deeper understanding of statehood that encompasses not just structural aspects but also responsibility and public trust during a national seminar attended by law students from Bali. He highlighted the roles of the DPR RI in legislation, oversight, and budgeting to ensure public welfare, while acknowledging challenges such as legal complexities, political pressures, and high public expectations. Yudhoyono proposed solutions including greater transparency, public involvement especially among the youth, and moral courage among legislators, and addressed contemporary legal issues like technology and data governance.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed the death of Siman Bahar, a suspect in a corruption case involving a 2017 cooperation between state-owned PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) and PT Loco Montrado, which allegedly caused losses of Rp100.7 billion to state finances. The KPK is preparing to issue a termination of investigation order (SP3) for Bahar, pending required documents such as a death certificate. This follows the earlier naming of Antam's former manager Dody Martimbang and the company PT Loco Montrado as suspects in the case.