Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 April 2026

Showing 151-200 of 1,583 articles

South Korean Embassy Admits Mistake in Issuing Travel Warning for Bali and Apologises

The South Korean Embassy in Indonesia has issued an apology for mistakenly releasing a travel advisory warning its citizens about high levels of crime targeting foreigners in Bali, which sparked significant online discussion. Following coordination with Indonesia's Ministries of Tourism and Foreign Affairs, the embassy clarified the advisory was an error by its Consul General and committed to future collaboration on sensitive information to protect Bali's image as a premier tourist destination. Indonesian authorities are enhancing security measures, including risk assessments, integrated reporting, and increased police presence in key areas, to ensure the safety of visitors and sustain the local economy.

Minister clarifies "hajj ticket war" remains mere discourse

Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs, Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, has clarified that the proposed "hajj ticket war" scheme to shorten long waiting queues for pilgrims is still in the discussion phase and not yet implemented, reassuring current registrants that their positions will not be affected. The initiative, aimed at addressing Indonesia's extensive hajj queues, requires broad stakeholder consultations, including with legislators and pilgrims, amid criticisms from religious affairs committees. Additionally, efforts to utilise neighbouring countries' quotas have faced resistance from Saudi Arabia, though further discussions are planned to seek breakthroughs in hajj management.

KPK Receives Information on Circulation of Fake Excise Stamps: We Are Still Investigating

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has received reports of fake excise stamps circulating and is urging the public to report any suspicions without fear, assuring confidentiality for informants. This comes amid ongoing probes into corruption at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) involving tobacco entrepreneurs and officials who allegedly manipulated import procedures for bribes. The case has led to seven suspects, highlighting systemic issues in excise and customs management that could undermine government revenue and regulatory integrity.

Deal! Portrait of Bahlil Securing Oil and LPG Supplies from Russia

Indonesia has secured supplies of crude oil and LPG from Russia following high-level talks between President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia finalising details in a meeting with Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev. The agreement, involving major Russian energy firms like Rosneft and Lukoil, explores government-to-government and business-to-business collaborations, including long-term supply deals, storage development, and potential nuclear energy and mineral sectors. This partnership is seen as a crucial step in bolstering Indonesia's national energy resilience and economic stability amid global uncertainties.

Hercules and PT KAI Set to Meet to Resolve Land Dispute

A long-standing dispute over 34,690 square metres of land in Bongkaran, Tanah Abang, Central Jakarta, between GRIB Jaya (represented by Hercules) and PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is poised for resolution through a mediated meeting. The conflict stems from competing claims: GRIB Jaya holds a 1923 Eigendom Verponding document, while KAI possesses a 2008 Land Management Rights Certificate, amid government plans to develop vacant urban land. Both parties express willingness to negotiate civilly, with GRIB Jaya rejecting accusations of illegal occupation and pursuing legal action in court.

Reclamation Requires Rp 6 Trillion in Funding, Ancol Has Secured 16 Investors

PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk plans to proceed with a 65-hectare land reclamation project on the western side of Ancol, estimated to cost around Rp 6 trillion, shifting from initial capex funding to a business-sharing model due to strong investor interest. The company has attracted 16 potential investors from Europe, China, Korea, and local sources, and will conduct a 'beauty contest' to select the partner offering the most beneficial terms. This initiative aims to enhance facilities and boost visitor appeal in the Ancol area, marking a significant opportunity for collaborative development in Jakarta's tourism infrastructure.

Lebak Regency Issues Early Religious Education Regulation to Support Tunas Programme

The Lebak Regency government in Banten has issued a regional regulation mandating Islamic religious education for primary school students after regular school hours, making it a prerequisite for advancing to junior high school as part of the national Tunas programme. This initiative aims to foster a superior generation with strong moral character and ethics through attendance at madrasah diniyah takmiliyah awaliyah (MDTA) from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, followed by evening Quran study sessions. In collaboration with community elements, the local government is also promoting education on limiting social media use to protect children from negative influences such as online gambling, cyberbullying, and pornography.

BSI to follow SLIK relaxation policy, easing subsidised mortgage applications

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has pledged to adhere to the Financial Services Authority's (OJK) new policy relaxing the reporting threshold in the Financial Information Service System (SLIK) to Rp1 million, aiming to streamline subsidised mortgage (KPR) applications for low-income earners while upholding prudent risk management. The policy also accelerates loan repayment status updates to within three working days, supporting the government's three million housing initiative. Experts note that the changes are unlikely to significantly impact existing KPR processes, as sub-Rp1 million loans are rare in banking.

Long-term Solution: Luwir Urges Badung Regency Government to Purchase Land for Waste Processing

I Wayan Luwir Wiana, a member of the Badung Regency DPRD Commission II, has urged the local government to acquire dedicated land for waste processing as a long-term strategy to address growing waste management challenges, particularly in densely urbanised areas like South Kuta where modern composting systems are impractical. He highlighted issues such as the accumulation of wet waste due to limited disposal sites and unreliable collection services, while calling for regulatory studies to facilitate central government approvals and the adoption of high-capacity machinery. Luwir also expressed hope for the central government's PSEL project in Denpasar to alleviate Bali's waste burden and criticised delays in incinerator operations at TPS3R facilities, advocating for enhanced monitoring of illegal dumping sites.

KPK Examines Forwarder, Probes for Additional Bribes to Customs Officials

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating a forwarder named Arief Infinity in connection with alleged bribery in the import process at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) under the Ministry of Finance, aiming to uncover further instances of corruption involving other forwarders and officials. The probe extends to cigarette entrepreneurs, with examinations of individuals like Khairul Umam alias Haji Her, linked to documents found during raids related to excise tax manipulation. Seven suspects have been identified in the case, including high-ranking DJBC officials and executives from PT Blueray, who allegedly colluded to manipulate import lanes for illicit gains, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat systemic graft in Indonesia's customs operations.

Energy Crisis Pressures Air Cargo, Boosting Opportunities for Sea and Land Logistics

The global air cargo industry is under significant pressure due to escalating geopolitical conflicts and ongoing disruptions in energy supply chains since early 2026, leading to a 22% drop in demand and up to 39% on key routes like Asia-Europe, driven by jet fuel prices soaring to $175–200 per barrel. Indonesian logistics, dominated by land transport at 90%, faces vulnerabilities but could see shifts towards sea and land modes as alternatives, presenting opportunities for efficiency improvements and enhanced port connectivity. This realignment underscores the need for businesses to adapt operational strategies to mitigate high costs and capacity constraints in volatile markets.

South Lampung strengthens energy resilience through PGN and BUMD collaboration

The South Lampung Regency Government is advancing regional energy independence via a strategic partnership between PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN) and the local state-owned enterprise, Perseroda Lampung Selatan Maju. This collaboration focuses on developing a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station to expand gas market access in central Sumatra, leveraging PGN's existing infrastructure like the FSRU Lampung and pipeline networks. The initiative aims to optimise sustainable energy supply for industries, agribusiness, transport, and SMEs, fostering economic growth and environmental benefits.

Naming Rights for Bus Stops to Political Parties Deemed Dangerous, Sparking Conflict and Politicisation

Public policy expert Trubus Rahadiansah has warned that granting naming rights for Jakarta's bus stops to political parties could lead to social conflicts, vandalism, and clashes among supporters, undermining the neutrality of public spaces. He highlighted risks of covert campaigning, political transactions, and corruption through opaque practices like bidding for prime locations, which could erode good governance. Trubus urged a thorough review of the proposal by Governor Pramono Anung, advocating for revenue generation from non-political businesses to avoid these pitfalls and maintain public neutrality.

House Commission X Demands Firm Action Against University of Indonesia Law Faculty Student Group Chat Involved in Sexual Harassment

The Chair of House Commission X, Hetifah Sjaifudian, has condemned the alleged verbal sexual harassment in a group chat involving numerous students from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law as a serious violation of ethics and campus safety, calling for a transparent and accountable investigation. She emphasised the need for objective sanctions based on credible findings to ensure justice for victims and deterrence, while referencing the Ministry of Education Regulation No. 55 of 2024 on preventing and handling violence, including digital verbal abuse. The university is conducting a victim-centered probe through its task force, and the faculty's student body has already imposed organisational sanctions by revoking memberships of implicated students.

Aceh Special Autonomy Funds: State Urged to Ensure Healthy Management, Not Just Routine Transfers

Azis Subekti, a Gerindra faction member of DPR Commission II, supports extending Aceh's Special Autonomy Funds (Otsus) following recent floods and landslides but warns that large budgets have not always delivered substantial improvements, citing persistent poverty, unemployment, and fiscal dependency. He emphasises the need for robust governance to transform these funds into tangible welfare benefits, echoing Home Minister Tito Karnavian's call for measurable impacts. Azis urges that post-disaster allocations focus on urgent needs like infrastructure rebuilding and economic revival, while demanding stricter oversight to avoid bureaucratic waste.

Celios Study: MBG Fails to Reach the Most Needy Citizens

A study by the Center of Economic and Law Studies (Celios) reveals that Indonesia's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, budgeted at Rp 335 trillion for 2026, is inefficient and fails to target the most vulnerable populations, with fewer meal preparation units in high-poverty and remote areas. The analysis highlights a 34.2% inclusion error, where benefits reach those who do not need them most, exacerbated by irrelevant expenditures on items like event organisers, tablets, and electric motorbikes. Celios recommends halting expansion, conducting a comprehensive audit, and shifting focus to outcome-based evaluations to improve nutritional outcomes and public fund accountability.

OJK Prepares Two Roadmaps, Aiming for a More Liquid Capital Market and Economic Support

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued two strategic roadmaps for 2026–2030 to deepen Indonesia's financial markets, enhance investor protection, and promote sustainable financing and investment to bolster economic growth. The first roadmap focuses on developing derivative markets based on underlying instruments to create a more liquid, efficient, credible, and integrity-driven market for risk management and market deepening, supported by four pillars including investor protection and infrastructure efficiency. The second roadmap aims to strengthen the capital market's role in ESG-based funding through regulatory foundations, market activity growth, investor participation incentives, and stakeholder collaborations, aligning with national development goals like net zero emissions by 2060.

Deputy Interior Minister Emphasises Collaboration and Data Openness to Combat TB

Deputy Interior Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has stressed the critical role of cross-sector collaboration and transparent data sharing in tackling tuberculosis (TB) at the local level, highlighting the need for proactive community outreach and early detection to break the chain of transmission. Speaking at an event in Bandar Lampung, he underscored the central government's three-year target to eradicate TB, as prioritised by the President, and praised the city's preparedness while urging full transparency to enable accurate interventions. This initiative ties into broader national development goals for Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045, aiming to boost public productivity and eliminate TB stigma.

PEMA exports first batch of 19 tonnes of Gayo Arabica coffee to the United States

PT Pembangunan Aceh (PEMA), through its subsidiary Sumatera Noble Coffee KSO, has successfully exported its inaugural 19 tonnes of premium triple pick Gayo Arabica coffee from Aceh to the United States in April 2026, marking a significant step in entering the global market for sustainable coffee. This achievement underscores the company's strategic efforts to build a robust business ecosystem in the coffee sector, involving local farmers and partners, while preparing follow-up shipments in early May to ensure market continuity and boost Aceh's economy. PEMA also reported strong domestic sales, including 21 tonnes to Medan, highlighting collaborative support from provincial leadership and stakeholders.

Expert at Constitutional Court: Trend in Europe to Abolish Military Courts During Peacetime

Experts testifying at Indonesia's Constitutional Court highlighted a growing European trend towards integrating or eliminating military courts in peacetime, advocating for civilian courts to handle all cases, including those involving military personnel, to uphold human rights and the rule of law. They criticised Indonesia's 1997 Military Court Law, enacted under the authoritarian New Order regime, for enabling impunity and discrimination by allowing active military members to be tried exclusively in potentially non-transparent military courts, even for general crimes. This judicial review seeks to address these issues, promoting equality before the law and civilian supremacy in a democratic system.

Ride-Hailing Giant Shuts Down in Indonesia, Now Driver Faces Legal Case

Uber, which ceased operations in Indonesia in 2018 before handing over its Southeast Asian business to Grab, is now embroiled in multiple US lawsuits over sexual assaults by its drivers. In a recent case in North Carolina, the company argues it is merely a software provider without legal responsibility for independent contractors, while another Oklahoma ruling held Uber accountable as an employer, leading to an $8.5 million compensation payout. These cases highlight ongoing legal battles for the ride-hailing firm, with over 500 similar claims pending in California, underscoring tensions between tech platforms and passenger safety regulations.

Global Investors Still Interested in Investing in Indonesia, Airlangga Highlights the Indicators

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto has affirmed that global investors continue to recognise the resilience of Indonesia's economic fundamentals amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) projects stable growth of 5.2% for Indonesia in 2026 and 2027, surpassing the regional average, driven by strong domestic demand, controlled inflation, and ongoing infrastructure development. FTSE Russell's maintenance of Indonesia's Secondary Emerging Market status alongside China and India underscores progress in market governance and transparency.

Prosecutors Seek 6-Month Sentence; Hanura Awaits Verdict for PAW of Mokris Lay

Mokrianus Imanuel Lay, a member of the Kupang City DPRD, faces a six-month prison sentence from prosecutors for neglecting his wife and children, under domestic violence laws. The Hanura Party's Kupang branch has temporarily deactivated him pending detention but is withholding interim replacement (PAW) until a final court verdict and party tribunal outcome. This case highlights the intersection of legal accountability and political representation in Indonesia's legislative processes.

Minister Imipas Discusses Restorative Justice as Key to Building the Legal System at WCPP

Indonesia is hosting the 2026 World Congress on Probation and Parole (WCPP) in Bali, attended by delegations from 44 countries, where Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto highlighted the importance of restorative justice in shifting penal paradigms towards rehabilitation and social restoration rather than mere imprisonment. Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra emphasised the need for tailored probation systems and cross-country dialogue to balance law enforcement, victim protection, and offender reintegration. The event also showcased products from inmates, promoting international opportunities and Indonesia's role in advancing inclusive global corrections practices.

Bogor develops 156 hectares of urban forest in four months

The Bogor Regency Government in West Java has planted 45,152 trees across 156.44 hectares of urban forest over the past four months since early 2026, as part of efforts to combat climate change and enhance environmental resilience. Initiated through a regental instruction issued on 31 December 2025, the programme includes weekly "Planting Tuesdays" and encourages participation from local government units, state-owned enterprises, and businesses via corporate social responsibility schemes. The initiative culminates in a simultaneous planting event on 5 June 2026, coinciding with World Environment Day, aiming to secure ecological benefits for future generations.

Reading the Meaning Behind Indonesia's Meetings with the US and Russia

Indonesia is pursuing a balanced diplomatic strategy by sending its Defence Minister to the United States and having President Prabowo Subianto visit Russia, aiming to secure alternative energy supplies and assert foreign policy independence amid global geopolitical tensions. Experts view this as a manifestation of Indonesia's non-aligned policy, though concerns persist over transparency, execution effectiveness, and challenges like Russian energy infrastructure vulnerabilities and US sanctions. This manoeuvre seeks to safeguard national interests in the face of the global energy crisis and escalating international rivalries.

Property Sector Strategy Amidst Turbulence

The escalation of the US-Israel-Iran conflict is driving up energy prices, inflation, and exchange rates, posing significant risks to Indonesia's property sector by increasing material costs and dampening investor sentiment. Developers are postponing expansions, focusing on absorbing existing units, and offering incentives like discounts and low-interest loans, while projections indicate a sharp decline in new apartment supply in Jakarta. Industry experts urge government intervention through fiscal incentives and stimuli to sustain purchasing power and mitigate the slowdown in this key economic driver.

Bali Police Thwart Circulation of Thousands of Ecstasy Pills in South Kuta

Bali Police's Narcotics Directorate has foiled the distribution of 1,284 ecstasy pills valued at approximately Rp1.28 billion in South Kuta, Badung Regency, arresting a 34-year-old courier from Jember, East Java. The operation, initiated by community tips, uncovered the drugs hidden in the suspect's lodging, with the contraband intended for night entertainment venues and cafes under instructions from a fugitive mastermind. This bust not only prevents potential harm to 1,284 lives but underscores ongoing efforts to dismantle broader national and international drug networks, with the suspect facing severe penalties under Indonesia's narcotics law.

Danantara Establishes Subsidiary to Manage Waste-to-Energy Projects

Danantara Investment Management has launched a new subsidiary, PT Daya Energi Bersih Nusantara, to spearhead waste-to-energy (WtE) projects aimed at converting household and industrial waste into electricity, integrating the entire waste management chain from collection to processing. This initiative addresses Indonesia's significant waste challenge, where World Bank data indicates that 50% of rubbish ends up unmanaged in streets and rivers, offering a strategic solution to reduce environmental pollution and alleviate local government budgets strained by landfill costs. By promoting efficient waste transportation and processing, the model could encourage better household disposal practices and support sustainable energy production.

UI Lecturer: Systematic Investment Plan is a Long-Term Investment Strategy

A lecturer from the University of Indonesia highlights the Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) as a safe and profitable long-term investment strategy that promotes disciplined, regular investments with diversification to mitigate risks. He notes that traditional savings are eroded by fees, taxes, and inflation, urging a shift to more rewarding options like mutual funds. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) and industry players are promoting mutual fund literacy through campaigns ahead of Mutual Fund Week 2026, with digital investment app Bibit.id positioning itself as a pioneer in routine saving initiatives now gaining national momentum.

Police Chief Urges Workers to Celebrate May Day Safely and Orderly

Indonesian Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has called on all labour groups to celebrate International Labour Day on 1 May in a safe and orderly manner, emphasising the importance of maintaining national stability and fostering a conducive investment climate. He highlighted the need for harmonious industrial relations to attract investment amid global uncertainties, such as conflicts in the Middle East, and assured that police will protect workers' rights to voice their aspirations. This approach, he stated, will demonstrate to the world Indonesia's ability to resolve industrial disputes effectively and promote synergy between workers and employers.

Menhaj Reveals Readiness for Hajj 2026 Logistics, Pilgrim Suitcases Begin Distribution

Indonesia's Minister for Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has announced the phased distribution of suitcases for Hajj 2026 pilgrims, with targets set for completion by 17 April 2026 and significant progress already made by airlines Saudi Airlines and Garuda Indonesia. The government is also coordinating improvements to hotel facilities in response to concerns raised by the House of Representatives, focusing on enhancements to carpets, curtains, ablution areas, and sanitation to ensure pilgrim comfort and safety. This commitment underscores the administration's dedication to a professional, transparent, and responsible execution of the Hajj pilgrimage.

This Country Becomes a Hub for Global Military Bases as US and China Vie for Power

Djibouti, a small nation in East Africa, has emerged as a critical geopolitical hotspot due to its strategic location near the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, a vital shipping corridor handling 12% of global maritime trade. Hosting military bases from major powers including the United States and China, the country leverages its geographic position and political stability to generate significant revenue through leases, compensating for its lack of natural resources. This phenomenon underscores intensifying great-power competition in unstable regions bordering conflict zones like Yemen and Somalia, influencing global logistics and security dynamics.

Indonesian Parliament Emphasises That Additional Hajj Flight Costs Must Be Borne by the State

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission VIII has stressed that any additional costs for Hajj flights due to rising fuel prices and currency fluctuations should be covered by the state budget rather than passed on to pilgrims. Officials from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah are coordinating with relevant institutions to ensure legal compliance, highlighting the need for a strong legal framework to utilise state funds without violating regulations governing Hajj financing through the Hajj Financial Management Agency (BPKH). This approach aims to maintain accountability and protect pilgrims' funds while addressing the dynamic global oil market.

Resident Allegedly Hit by Police Car Actually Fell Due to Stone Thrown in Brawl

Jakarta Police have denied claims that a patrol car struck a resident during a brawl in South Tebet on Monday night, stating instead that the victim fell after being hit by a stone thrown amid the clash. The incident went viral on social media with false narratives of a police vehicle collision, leading to protests against the car, which was also damaged by thrown objects. The victim received medical treatment at Tebet Hospital, highlighting the rapid spread of misinformation in community disturbances.

Home Affairs Minister: Government to Strengthen Oversight and Optimise Special Autonomy Funds

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian has affirmed the government's commitment to enhancing oversight and optimising the implementation of Special Autonomy Funds (Otsus) in regions like Papua, Aceh, and the Special Region of Yogyakarta. During a meeting with Commission II of the House of Representatives, key discussions focused on improving fund distribution, accelerating economic growth in Papua through dedicated bodies, and extending Aceh's Otsus scheme beyond 2027, contingent on national fiscal capacity and global geopolitical factors. This initiative aims to address developmental challenges and support recovery from natural disasters in Aceh, underscoring the need for legislative revisions and parliamentary consensus.

Cooperative Minister Requests Priority for MSME Products in Village Cooperatives

Indonesia's Minister of Cooperatives, Ferry Juliantono, has urged the prioritisation of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) products in the outlets of Village/Subdistrict Red and White Cooperatives (KDKMP) to foster concrete economic impacts at the grassroots level. Speaking at an event in Semarang, he emphasised the need for cooperatives to engage in production and post-production activities, drawing inspiration from local examples like homemade soaps and sambal to revitalise small industries and address community challenges. Central Java, with over 19,000 active cooperatives and significant assets, is highlighted as a leader in this initiative, supported by the provincial governor's call for cooperatives to serve as economic hubs for MSMEs.

Wife of Bogor City Satpol PP Member Reveals Superior's Excuse for Pawning Husband's Appointment Decree

The wife of a Bogor City Satpol PP member has disclosed that her husband's ASN appointment decree was pawned by his superior, identified as I, the Head of Finance and Reporting, to secure a Rp100 million bank loan under the pretext of office needs. Initially agreed upon with promises of quick repayment, the loan's 10-year term and subsequent default since March 2025 have led to monthly deductions from the husband's salary without reimbursement, sparking concerns over accountability within the civil service. The acting Satpol PP chief confirmed the incident, highlighting the misuse of official documents and the financial burden on affected members.

UI Law Faculty Sexual Harassment Chat Scandal: Perpetrators Said to Lack Empathy and Self-Control

A psychology expert from the University of Indonesia has attributed a digital sexual harassment scandal involving 16 law students at the Faculty of Law to a lack of moral stimulation, leading to deficiencies in empathy, self-control, and conscience. Prof Rose Mini Agoes Salim explained that without these moral aspects, individuals fail to recognise the harmful impact of their sexist remarks in private group chats. The incident underscores broader societal issues in fostering ethical behaviour among young adults in educational settings.

Jakarta Becomes the Safest City, Legislator: Needs Continuous Improvement

Jakarta has been ranked as the second safest city in Southeast Asia for 2026 by the Global Residence Index, with a security score of 0.72, surpassing cities like Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur but trailing Singapore. DPRD Jakarta legislator Wa Ode Herlina praised the achievement, attributing it to factors such as integrated public transport, digital services, and urban risk management under Governor Pramono Anung and Deputy Rano Karno. She urged further enhancements in public transport connectivity, including expanded feeder networks like JakLingko to residential areas and increased fleets for major events, to promote inclusivity and reduce reliance on private vehicles.

Police Reveal Origins of Raid on New Star Club and Delona Vista in Denpasar

Bali Regional Police have disclosed that the raids on three nightclubs—New Star Club, N CO Living by NIX, and Delona Vista in Denpasar—stemmed from the seizure of thousands of ecstasy pills at Gilimanuk Port on 31 January. This intelligence led to coordinated operations with the National Police Criminal Investigation Agency, targeting suspected distribution points amid a rising trend of narcotics trafficking and use in Bali. The raids, conducted in March and April 2026, resulted in the securing of hundreds of pills and suspects, with the venues now under police lines for further investigation.

Response to FH UI Sexual Harassment Case: Minister States No Tolerance

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) has firmly stated zero tolerance for any form of sexual harassment in higher education institutions, responding to a recent case at the Faculty of Law, University of Indonesia (FHUI). Minister Brian Yuliarto emphasised the need for safe, inclusive environments free from violence, referencing the 2024 regulation on prevention and handling of campus violence, which mandates task forces and victim protection. The ministry is coordinating with UI to ensure proper procedures, victim support, and legal enforcement under the 2022 Sexual Violence Crimes Law, highlighting the government's commitment to accountability in academic settings.

Golden Village Programme 2025: Turning Waste into Profit

The Inotek Foundation, in collaboration with the Indonesia Setara Foundation (YIS) and the Kebumen Regency Government, launched the Golden Village Programme 2025 in Central Java, focusing on transforming banana leaf waste into valuable handicrafts through community workshops. Successful entrepreneur Siswanto shared his inspiring journey of building a side business from banana frond fibres, generating income exceeding the local minimum wage to support his family's needs. The event also included sessions on cost calculation, financial management, AI-optimised product photography, and social media marketing, aiming to empower rural residents with sustainable economic skills.

Indonesian Consulate in Johor Promotes Strengthening of Economic Cooperation between Indonesia and Pahang

The Indonesian Consulate General in Johor Bahru has urged enhanced economic collaboration between Indonesia and Malaysia's Pahang state, emphasising the transformation of their cultural and historical ties into tangible and sustainable economic strength. During a business meeting in Kuantan, key initiatives discussed included improved logistics connectivity via RoRo ferry routes and the adoption of Local Currency Transaction schemes to reduce reliance on the US dollar. The event, supported by Pahang's economic bodies and attended by public and private sector representatives, agreed to explore establishing a Pahang-Indonesia Business Forum to facilitate structured business matching and accelerate investments.

KPK Seizes 6 Items from Faizal Assegaf Related to Customs Corruption Case, Including Electronic Devices

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has seized six items, including electronic devices, from Faizal Assegaf, the Director of PT Sinkos Multimedia Mandiri and a 1998 activist, in connection with an alleged corruption case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC). Assegaf has admitted to receiving these items from Rizal, the suspect and former Director of Enforcement and Investigation at DJBC from 2024 to January 2026. This seizure follows examinations of Assegaf and two DJBC employees, highlighting ongoing probes into illicit facilities provided in the customs sector.

KPK to Analyse Judge's Ruling Declaring DPR Secretary General's Suspect Status Invalid Due to Evidence Gathered Afterwards

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) plans to analyse a judge's ruling that overturned the suspect status of DPR Secretary General Indra Iskandar in a corruption case involving procurement for MPs' office facilities in 2020, claiming evidence was collected after his designation. KPK officials assert they had already secured two valid pieces of evidence during the preliminary investigation, enabling the case's escalation, and will evaluate the judge's considerations to determine next steps, including potential re-examination of Indra. Indra's legal team welcomed the decision, which deems the suspect status unlawful.

Reasons Why Traffic Corps Allows Annual Tax Payment Without Old Owner's ID

The Indonesian National Police's Traffic Corps (Korlantas) has introduced a policy allowing annual STNK extensions without requiring the previous owner's ID, primarily to address practical challenges faced by owners of second-hand vehicles who have not yet completed ownership transfer procedures. This flexibility ensures public services remain accessible, especially for those with limited funds, while maintaining data validity through verification and mandatory declaration forms, though it urges prompt name changes to avoid future issues. The measure reflects an adaptive approach to vehicle administration amid economic realities, balancing convenience with regulatory oversight.

Bali Police Meet South Korean Consulate to Discuss Strengthening Tourist Security

Officials from Bali's Police Sub-Directorate for VIP Protection met with representatives from the South Korean Consulate to enhance security measures and bilateral cooperation for tourists. The consulate clarified that recent travel advisories for its citizens are routine reminders rather than restrictions, expressing appreciation for the police's swift response and updating communications to reflect Bali's current safe conditions. This partnership underscores a joint commitment to maintaining Bali's status as a secure world-class tourism destination, supported by a 23% decline in crimes involving foreigners in early 2026.

IDX-IC Classification: Definition, Differences with JASICA, List of Sectors, and Stock Examples

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) introduced the IDX-IC (IDX Industrial Classification) system on 25 January 2021 to replace the outdated JASICA classification, aiming to better accommodate modern economic developments such as digital technology and align with global standards like GICS and ICB. This new framework categorises listed companies into 12 sectors, 35 sub-sectors, 69 industries, and 130 sub-industries based on primary business activities, facilitating more accurate analysis for investors, particularly foreign ones. Key sectors include Energy (e.g., ADRO, PTBA), Basic Materials (e.g., ANTM, SMGR), and Industrials (e.g., UNTR, WIKA), enhancing the homogeneity and relevance of sector groupings in Indonesia's stock market.

BPDLH Allocates Rp20.3 Billion for These 4 Low-Carbon Projects

Indonesia's Environmental Fund Management Agency (BPDLH) under the Ministry of Finance has disbursed Rp20.3 billion to fund four innovative low-carbon projects across various regions, selected from 283 proposals through the Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF) initiative. The projects span waste management in South Sulawesi, marine and coastal ecosystems in West Nusa Tenggara, and agriculture, forestry, and land use in Maluku and West Java, aiming to stimulate early-stage developments that reduce emissions and boost economic growth. This funding, part of the Low Carbon Development Initiative in collaboration with the UK government, underscores Indonesia's commitment to sustainable, low-carbon business practices.