Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 April 2026

Showing 201-250 of 1,583 articles

How Local Governments Can Borrow from the State Budget through Banks and Non-Bank Institutions

The Indonesian government has introduced a new policy via Ministerial Regulation No. 11 of 2026, allowing local governments to borrow funds from banks and non-bank financial institutions to support national fiscal policy objectives and economic growth targets. The regulation outlines mechanisms for activity-based or cash loans, with strict financial limits ensuring total regional debt does not exceed 75% of the previous year's regional budget revenue, and includes provisions for interest rate proposals, potential subsidies, and enforcement through deductions from central transfers if repayments are missed. This financing alternative aligns with national development plans and presidential directives, providing local authorities with enhanced options for funding development programmes.

Pertamina states it is capable of processing crude oil from Russia

Pertamina has affirmed that its refineries are equipped to process crude oil sourced from Russia, aligning with the government's initiative to import such oil to bolster national energy supplies. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's negotiations with Russian officials have yielded agreements on crude oil and LPG procurement, alongside broader cooperation in refinery development and energy technology. This partnership aims to enhance Indonesia's energy security by diversifying import sources from a major global producer.

Komodo National Park Limits Tourist Visits to 1,000 People Per Day, Divided into 3 Sessions

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry has imposed a daily limit of 1,000 tourists to Komodo National Park in East Nusa Tenggara, effective from 1 April 2026, to protect its unique wildlife and local communities while managing ecological pressures. This regulation focuses on three key destinations—Padar, Rinca, and Komodo islands—plus 23 diving sites, following a trial in February 2026 after 2025 saw over 429,000 visitors exceeding the park's carrying capacity of around 366,000 annually. Although tourism has boosted the regional economy, the cap aims to ensure sustainable conservation of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Indonesia-UK Strengthen Low-Carbon Development through LCDI-ITF Funding

Indonesia and the UK are enhancing low-carbon development via the Low Carbon Development Initiative–Innovation and Technology Fund (LCDI-ITF), a partnership between Indonesia's Ministry of National Development Planning/Bappenas, the Environmental Fund Management Agency (BPDLH), and the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). From 283 proposals worth Rp1.59 trillion, four initial projects totalling Rp20.33 billion were selected, focusing on waste management, solar-powered shrimp farming, sustainable spice processing, and rice farming decarbonisation, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while fostering inclusive economic growth. This initiative supports national roadmaps like circular and blue economies, regenerative agriculture, and Indonesia's Trisula Pembangunan, underscoring a commitment to evidence-based, sustainable development and positioning LCDI-ITF as a replicable model for global climate action.

Indonesia's Regulations Become Global Trend, Government Reveals Results

Indonesia's Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic Systems for Child Protection (PP Tunas) is gaining international attention, with around 19 countries monitoring its implementation for potential adoption. Minister Meutya Hafid highlighted compliance progress among digital platforms, praising TikTok for deactivating nearly 1 million underage accounts in Indonesia, while urging further improvements from Roblox and YouTube. This global movement underscores the regulation's potential to enhance child safety online worldwide, particularly influencing policies in Europe, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Response to Overflight Clearance Issue: Dino Patti Djalal Reminds Government to Be Cautious Regarding US Requests

Dino Patti Djalal, founder of the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI), has urged the Indonesian government to exercise caution in decisions involving cooperation with the United States, particularly on airspace overflight controls. He highlighted the Ministry of Defence's statement that the matter remains in draft form and warned against policies of appeasement that could lead to hasty concessions to avoid pressure. As a middle power, Indonesia must remain vigilant to prevent being caught off guard by foreign proposals.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Appreciates East Java Provincial Government's Support for Education Programmes

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu’ti has praised the East Java Provincial Government's support for national education initiatives, particularly in achieving full revitalisation and digitalisation across all school levels. He highlighted plans to expand revitalisation to 11,400 schools in 2026, scaling up to 60,000 nationwide, while enhancing digital learning devices and providing scholarships worth Rp3 million per semester to 150,000 underqualified teachers. This collaboration underscores the strong synergy between central and local governments in transforming Indonesia's education sector.

Indonesia and US sign major defence cooperation pact to boost military ties

Indonesia and the United States have signed a Major Defence Cooperation Pact (MDCP) to enhance military ties, focusing on technology, training, and operational cooperation to strengthen Indonesia's defence capabilities and promote stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement, inked by Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, aligns with Indonesia's independent and active foreign policy while emphasising national sovereignty and mutual respect. This pact represents a significant step in military diplomacy, adapting to geopolitical shifts and improving the Indonesian National Armed Forces' readiness against emerging threats.

Bahlil Says Indonesia to Receive Oil and LPG Supplies from Russia

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, announced that the country will receive supplies of crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from Russia following his meeting with Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev in Moscow. This agreement builds on high-level discussions between Presidents Prabowo and Vladimir Putin and aims to bolster Indonesia's national energy security through government-to-government and business-to-business schemes. The partnership also explores broader collaborations in crude storage, long-term supplies, nuclear energy, and minerals, providing a strategic response to global energy market volatility.

Tito Urges Regions to Share TKD to Assist Disaster-Affected Areas

Muhammad Tito Karnavian, head of the Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) following the Sumatra disaster, has called on less-affected or unaffected regions in North Sumatra with substantial additional regional transfer allocations (TKD) to provide grants to severely impacted areas in Aceh. Specific appeals include Medan donating around Rp50 billion from its Rp565 billion addition, and similar contributions from Deli Serdang, Simalungun, and others to support recovery in districts like East Aceh and North Aceh. This initiative, grounded in a recent circular and intensive regional consultations, aims to foster inter-regional solidarity, ensuring at least Rp25 billion in extra funding for humanitarian recovery efforts in affected Aceh areas like Gayo Lues and Bener Meriah.

Part 1 | INSANE! Gold Surges 150%. Don't Buy Before Watching This!

In an era of global uncertainty, gold has solidified its status as a safe haven asset, with prices skyrocketing by 150% over the past five years. In this episode of the Cuap Cuap Cuan podcast, CNBC Indonesia's Editor-in-Chief Wahyu Daniel interviews Antam's Commercial Director Handi Sutanto to explore the reasons behind the dramatic rise, proper investment strategies, and common pitfalls for investors. The discussion aims to equip listeners with knowledge to avoid impulsive decisions in the gold market.

Cengkareng Residents Complain Again About Clean Water Shortages

Residents in Rawa Buaya, Cengkareng, West Jakarta, continue to face chronic issues with clean water supply from the PAM system, experiencing intermittent flow, discoloured and foul-smelling water, with reliable clean water only available late at night. Local residents like Nurliana Sihombing have endured these problems for over 25 years despite regular payments, forcing them to wake up in the middle of the night to collect water and sometimes resort to using groundwater. The RT chairman, Eka, highlights repeated complaints to authorities yielding only temporary fixes, underscoring the need for comprehensive infrastructure improvements in this essential public service.

Ministry of Public Works Accelerates Construction of Cijurey and Cibeet Dams

The Ministry of Public Works is expediting the construction of the Cijurey and Cibeet Dams to bolster flood control in the lower Citarum River Basin, particularly in Karawang and Bekasi districts, where flooding has caused significant losses averaging Rp800 billion annually over the past seven years. The Cijurey Dam, with a capacity of 14.37 million cubic metres, is 37.2% complete, while the Cibeet Dam, designed to hold 83.28 million cubic metres, faces challenges with only 7.9% of land acquisition completed. These projects are projected to reduce flood risks by up to 80% and prevent potential losses of Rp16 trillion over 25 years, supporting irrigation, water resilience, energy, and food security in West Java.

Legislator urges Employment Bill to minimise wage disparities

Netty Prasetiyani, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission IX, has advocated for the Employment Bill to include regulations that address extreme wage gaps between regions, such as the stark differences within West Java where urban areas like Bekasi and Karawang offer minimum wages of Rp5.8-5.9 million, compared to Rp2.3-2.4 million in rural districts like Majalengka and Garut. She warns that without intervention, these disparities could lead to social imbalances, unhealthy labour competition, mass population migration, and even business relocations to lower-wage areas.

PPRO Introduces Sava Padel, Sports Facility Near ITS and Unair

PT PP Properti Tbk (PPRO) is developing a new Sava Padel facility in the Grand Dharmahusada Lagoon residential area in Surabaya, set to open in Q2 2026, targeting students and young communities near Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) and Universitas Airlangga (Unair). The project, which includes eight modern padel courts and is 75% complete, aims to enhance the lifestyle ecosystem and attract long-term investment by integrating housing, commercial spaces, and recreational amenities. This initiative strengthens the area's appeal as an integrated urban hub for youth activities and social interaction.

Cijurey and Cibeet Dams Claimed to Mitigate Flood Losses of Rp 16 Trillion

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Public Works, is accelerating the construction of the Cijurey and Cibeet Dams to reduce flood risks by up to 80% in Bekasi and Karawang, West Java, potentially saving Rp 16 trillion in damages over 25 years. Located in Bogor and part of the Citarum River Basin flood control system, these dams will also support irrigation for thousands of hectares of farmland. Despite progress on Cijurey at 37%, land acquisition for Cibeet remains a challenge at just 7.9%, with completion targeted for 2027-2028 to prevent recurring floods.

Freeport Forecasts Contribution of Rp54 Trillion to the State in 2026

PT Freeport Indonesia projects a contribution of US$2.9 billion (Rp54 trillion) to state revenues in 2026, comprising corporate taxes, non-tax state revenues, and dividends, driven by increased copper and gold production amid underground mine recovery. The company anticipates further growth to US$4.3 billion in 2027 and US$6 billion annually from 2028, supported by ramping up ore mining to 156,000 tonnes per day and producing 1.1 billion pounds of copper cathode and 26 tonnes of gold bullion. This projection, based on a gold price assumption of US$4,000 per ounce, underscores Freeport's expanding role in bolstering Indonesia's mining sector and national fiscal inflows.

DPRD Member from Temanggung Resigns After Being Reported to Police for Assaulting Woman

A member of the Temanggung Regency DPRD, identified by the initials NR, has resigned following a police report for allegedly assaulting a female companion at a karaoke venue in Bandungan, Semarang Regency. The incident occurred on the night of 10 April 2026 during a recreational outing, and NR has admitted to the act, leading to his immediate withdrawal from the position on 12 April. This development highlights accountability issues within local politics, particularly as NR was a replacement member with a prior history of misconduct, prompting his party to enforce a behavioural agreement upon appointment.

Highlighting TB Handling in Bandar Lampung, Deputy Interior Minister Emphasises Collaboration

Deputy Interior Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration, data transparency, and proactive community outreach in accelerating tuberculosis (TB) control efforts in Bandar Lampung, aligning with the central government's ambitious target to eradicate the disease within three years under the President's directive. He commended the local government's readiness while urging accurate data sharing to enable effective interventions and highlighted TB's broader impacts on productivity and national development goals like Indonesia Emas 2045. Wiyagus also called for eliminating stigma around the treatable disease to foster greater societal involvement.

Cancer Treatment Requires Progressive and Patient-Oriented Strategies

The President Director of AstraZeneca Indonesia, Esra Erkomay, has called for progressive, integrated, and patient-centred strategies to tackle cancer in Indonesia, highlighting its severe impact on public health, productivity, and the national economy. Citing GLOBOCAN 2022 data, she noted approximately 408,661 new cancer cases and over 242,000 deaths annually, which lead to reduced quality of life, financial burdens on families, and broader economic strain. Esra urged the government to promote early detection through widespread screening, ensure access to innovative treatments and financing, and implement supportive policies for faster adoption of medical innovations to optimise patient outcomes.

Flooded with Chinese Electric Vehicles, Indonesia's Automotive Industry at Risk

The Indonesian electric vehicle market is being overwhelmed by imports from China, which account for over 60% of electrified products, posing a severe threat to the domestic automotive industry. This dominance is leading to market cannibalisation rather than expansion, exacerbated by subdued consumer purchasing power, similar to challenges faced in Thailand. In contrast, countries like India and Vietnam have successfully built local production bases through measured policies and consistent industrial strategies, highlighting the need for Indonesia to implement protective measures and stimulate market growth.

ADB and FTSE Russell Confirm Indonesia's Economic Resilience, Government Claims

The Indonesian Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has highlighted endorsements from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and FTSE Russell as proof of the country's economic resilience amid global geopolitical tensions and Middle East conflicts. The ADB projects steady 5.2 percent growth for Indonesia in 2026 and 2027, surpassing regional averages, driven by robust domestic demand, controlled inflation, and supportive infrastructure and investment policies. FTSE Russell's decision to maintain Indonesia's Secondary Emerging Market status underscores ongoing capital market reforms, positioning the nation alongside major economies like China and India, and reinforcing the government's macroeconomic strategy for sustainable growth.

Report: Usage of Asian messaging apps in Russia rises 60 percent

A Kommersant report indicates that the number of users of Asian messaging apps in Russia surged by 60 percent in March, amid a slowdown in Telegram activity. Platforms such as China's WeChat, South Korea's KakaoTalk, and Turkey's BiP saw the strongest growth, driven by minimalistic interfaces, low data consumption, and integrated content-sharing features. WeChat's appeal lies in its all-in-one integration of payments, social networking, and mini-apps, though some functions remain limited without Chinese verification.

Bogor City Government Accelerates Five Strategic Projects in Kayumanis

The Bogor City Government in West Java is prioritising the acceleration of five strategic projects in Kayumanis sub-district to foster regional growth and enhance public services, including sports facilities, a city-scale wastewater treatment plant, a waste-to-energy power plant, and a logistics warehouse for Bulog on former asphalt factory land to bolster food security. Mayor Dedie Rachim emphasised the need for synergy among local agencies, community, and stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation, alongside simultaneous area improvements such as drainage repairs, traffic management, pedestrian paths, and green corridors. This initiative aims to bring immediate visible changes and future prospects to the rapidly developing area, with an initial joint assembly marking the start of preparations.

New Constitutional Court Justice Liliek Priabawono Adi: A Great Trust to Replace Anwar Usman

Liliek Priabawono Adi has been sworn in as a new justice of Indonesia's Constitutional Court, replacing Prof. Dr. Anwar Usman, following his appointment by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. With 34 years of judicial experience across various courts in Indonesia, Liliek expressed his honour and sought support from fellow justices as he assumes this significant role. The inauguration took place at Merdeka Palace before President Prabowo Subianto, highlighting the importance of judicial continuity in the nation's highest constitutional body.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Enhances English Language Competency for 13,964 Primary School Teachers

The Indonesian Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) is boosting the English proficiency of 13,964 primary school teachers to prepare for making English a compulsory subject starting from grade 3 in the 2027/2028 academic year. In 2026, the ministry conducted in-depth training for 5,777 teachers across the country, aligning with broader efforts to improve teacher qualifications, competencies, and welfare as part of national education reform. The programme involves over 11,400 educational units, with verification, validation, and cooperation agreements underway to ensure swift implementation.

Cloudy and Smelly Tap Water Forces Cengkareng Residents to Return to Groundwater

Residents in Rawa Buaya, Cengkareng, West Jakarta, are reverting to using groundwater due to persistent issues with tap water from PAM Jaya, which is often black, murky, and smells like sewage. RT 05 RW 02 chair Eka, who previously endured sleepless nights to collect cleaner water at midnight, has now cancelled her subscription and invested in a borehole, despite the groundwater leaving yellowish stains on clothes. PAM Jaya has acknowledged the quality disruptions in the area, amid concerns over Jakarta's provincial plans to restrict groundwater use entirely.

FHUI Case: Ministry of Higher Education Has Coordinated with Rectorate

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) has affirmed its zero-tolerance stance on violence in higher education institutions following allegations of sexual violence at the Faculty of Law, University of Indonesia (FHUI). Minister Brian Yuliarto emphasised the need for safe, inclusive environments and outlined handling procedures under Ministerial Regulation No. 55 of 2024, including the formation of task forces for prevention and victim support. The ministry is coordinating with UI authorities to ensure proper investigation, victim protection, and enforcement of relevant laws like the 2022 Sexual Violence Crime Act, underscoring a commitment to fostering integrity on campuses.

Indonesia affirms strategic role in global population agenda at UN

Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the global population and development agenda during the 59th Session of the UN Commission on Population and Development, launching the Grand Design for Population Development 2025–2045 and its roadmap. The delegation emphasised the need for strengthened multilateral cooperation to address global demographic dynamics, including accelerated demographic transitions and the rising proportion of elderly populations. This initiative integrates population dynamics into cross-sectoral planning and enhances policy-based research in reproductive health, family planning, and social protection to build a resilient, adaptive, and inclusive society.

Report: ASEAN e-commerce transaction value rises 22.8 percent in 2025

Southeast Asia's e-commerce sector sustained strong momentum in 2025, with gross merchandise value (GMV) increasing 22.8 percent year-on-year to $157.6 billion, driven by leading platforms expanding infrastructure and enhancing customer experiences. Indonesia remains the largest market with a 37 percent share, though its growth slowed to 2.2 percent, while Thailand and Malaysia led with 51.8 percent and 47.6 percent increases respectively; the industry is shifting towards greater control over demand generation, logistics, and margins. The report highlights the dominance of Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop, warns of reliance on subsidies for affordability, and identifies AI as a major disruptive force in content creation and demand generation.

Australia Follows Indonesia's Rules, Results Unexpected

Australia implemented a ban on social media access for children under 16 in December 2025, mirroring Indonesia's earlier restrictions introduced in March 2025. A survey by the Molly Rose Foundation in March 2026 revealed that 61% of Australian children aged 12-15 still maintain active social media accounts, with 70% easily bypassing the restrictions, questioning the ban's effectiveness. The Australian government is investigating platforms like TikTok and Instagram for non-compliance, with potential fines up to A$49.5 million, highlighting challenges in enforcing such policies.

Comprehensive Evaluation Leads to Major Rotation by Riau Police Chief to Strengthen War on Drugs

Following a thorough evaluation prompted by public unrest in Panipahan, Riau Regional Police have removed the local sector police chief and criminal investigation unit head, initiating a large-scale rotation of personnel to enhance accountability and service delivery. This restructuring is part of broader efforts to combat drug trafficking, including the formation of an Anti-Drug Task Force and collaboration with the National Narcotics Agency to designate Panipahan as a drug-free village. The initiative underscores the police's commitment to restoring public trust and fostering community resilience against narcotics through integrated enforcement and social engagement.

Enhancing Foreign Tourist Security, Bali Police and South Korean Consulate Strengthen Cooperation

Bali Regional Police (Polda Bali) and the South Korean Consulate have intensified their collaboration to bolster the safety and security of foreign tourists visiting the island. This follows a meeting where the consulate clarified that recent travel advisories are routine reminders rather than restrictions, while Polda Bali reported a 23% drop in crimes involving foreigners from January to April 2026 compared to the previous year. The partnership aims to reinforce Bali's reputation as a safe, world-class tourist destination and build international confidence in its tourism sector.

Developing cultural tourism potential requires inter-government collaboration

Jakarta Deputy Governor Rano Karno has emphasised the need for collaboration between governments and stakeholders to develop cultural tourism potential, particularly in Bonjol, West Sumatra, which boasts rich natural, historical, and cultural assets linked to national hero Tuanku Imam Bonjol. During the traditional Makan Bajamba ceremony, he highlighted the importance of preserving and revitalising local customs to ensure they are experienced directly by future generations, fostering identity and boosting tourism. This initiative aims to transform areas like Bonjol into compelling destinations that promote community benefits through cultural appreciation and brotherhood.

Sexual Harassment at UI Law Faculty, Campus Deemed to Fail as Safe Space

The Indonesian Education Monitoring Network (JPPI) has expressed deep concern over a digital sexual harassment case involving 16 students at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law, viewing it as a stark warning for higher education. JPPI National Coordinator Ubaid Matraji highlighted the irony of such violations occurring in a place dedicated to learning law and justice, underscoring a serious failure to create safe and integrity-driven academic environments. Monitoring from January to March 2026 revealed 233 violence cases in education settings, with sexual violence comprising nearly half, indicating a systemic issue that demands urgent policy reforms to protect students.

Jayapura City Government Dismisses Eight Civil Servants

The Jayapura City Government in Papua has dismissed eight civil servants (ASN) for serious violations, including criminal convictions leading to prison sentences of seven, eight, and 15 years for three individuals, while others were dismissed honourably at their request or with full revocation of rights. Mayor Abisai Rollo emphasised that these actions demonstrate the local government's commitment to enforcing rules and maintaining public service quality, serving as a lesson to prevent future indiscipline. The dismissals were symbolically marked with red crosses on the employees' photos during a morning assembly, aiming to foster discipline and integrity among all civil servants.

UI: Investigation into Alleged Verbal Violence in Line with National Regulations

Universitas Indonesia (UI) is conducting a comprehensive investigation into allegations of verbal violence at its Faculty of Law, involving 16 students under examination while upholding principles of presumed innocence and justice. The process adheres to national regulations, including the university's own policy on preventing and handling violence, aligned with the Minister of Education's decree, and emphasises victim protection through psychological, legal, and academic support. UI aims to prevent escalation and foster a safe, inclusive campus environment, with updates to be provided via official channels.

KP2MI Strengthens Village-Based Protection for Migrant Workers

The Indonesian Ministry of Migrant Worker Protection (KP2MI) is enhancing safeguards for Indonesian Migrant Workers (PMI) by initiating protection efforts at the village level, where migration decisions first form. Through the Golden Migrant Village Programme (Edukatif, Maju, Aman, Sejahtera), the initiative aims to boost safe migration literacy, support PMI families, strengthen remittance-based economies, and foster entrepreneurship for returning workers. This multi-stakeholder workshop in Donggala Regency underscores the government's commitment to a comprehensive, community-rooted system that ensures the rights and dignity of Indonesians working abroad.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education: 45 schools in Sidoarjo completed revitalisation by 2025

Indonesia's Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, announced the successful completion of a revitalisation programme for 45 educational units in Sidoarjo, East Java, with a total budget of Rp45 billion, covering kindergartens, primary, secondary, vocational, and special needs schools. This initiative, aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's directives, aims to enhance educational quality through improved facilities and nationwide digitalisation efforts, including the distribution of technology devices to 1,577 schools in Sidoarjo. The programme underscores the government's commitment to equitable educational infrastructure, with local authorities praised for their active support in its optimal implementation.

Book 'Taste of Nusantara Bhayangkara' Introduces Indonesia's MBG Programme to French Society

The Indonesian government is advancing President Prabowo Subianto's priority programme for improving human resources through national nutrition fulfilment by promoting the book 'Rasa Bhayangkara Nusantara' internationally as a tool for cultural and policy diplomacy. On 14 April 2026, presidential aide Dirgayuza Setiawan presented the book to the Indonesian Ambassador to France, Mohamad Oemar, in Paris, building on its prior distribution in countries like South Korea, the UK, the US, and Japan. This effort highlights global recognition of Indonesia's nutritious meals initiative, as evidenced by a French embassy delegation's visit to a police nutrition service unit, underscoring the programme's standards in food safety, local sourcing, and efficiency.

DPR Legislation Body Follows Up on Constitutional Court Ruling Granting BPK Authority to Determine State Losses

The DPR's Legislation Body (Baleg) has held a meeting to address the Constitutional Court's (MK) ruling number 28/PUU-XXIV/2026, which designates the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) as the state institution authorised to assess and determine the amount of state financial losses. This decision strengthens BPK's role as the national auditor capable of declaring such losses, while limiting bodies like the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) to internal audits. The ruling is final and binding, prompting legislative follow-up on technical implementation.

New Constitutional Court Justice Adies Kadir Admits Feeling More Calm and Healthy

Adies Kadir, the newly appointed Constitutional Court (MK) justice replacing the retired Arief Hidayat, has expressed that his role at the MK provides a more serene and healthy working environment compared to his previous professional experiences. He noted that the reduced pressure allows for better work-life balance, with normal health check results and no sudden demands disrupting his routine. This appointment underscores the MK's reputation for independence and lower stress levels among its justices.

Polri's Propam Inspects 10,000 Firearms Owned by South Kalimantan Police Personnel

The Indonesian National Police's Division of Profession and Security (Div Propam), in collaboration with the Police Logistics Staff, conducted a supervision inspection of approximately 10,000 organic firearms belonging to personnel at the South Kalimantan Regional Police (Polda Kalsel) and its 13 subordinate police resorts. The inspection, which covered administrative completeness, cleanliness, and functional suitability, found no violations, emphasising strict accountability for firearm use, including ammunition tracking and periodic psychological tests for personnel. This routine oversight underscores the police's commitment to ensuring compliance with regulations to prevent fatal errors in weapon handling.

Emerging Phenomenon: Many Indonesian Companies Not Hiring New Workers, What's Going On?

A survey by Apindo reveals that 67% of Indonesian companies have no plans to recruit new workers, while 50% are not intending to expand over the next five years due to unfavourable global conditions. Business leaders highlight frequent changes in labour regulations—five times in the past decade—as a major barrier to business certainty and long-term planning. They urge the new Employment Bill to address fundamental issues in the sector and implement Constitutional Court mandates to foster stability and job security.

5 Demands from UI BEM Alliance on Alleged Sexual Harassment Case

The Alliance of Student Executive Boards (BEM) across Universitas Indonesia (UI) has issued a statement and five specific demands in response to an alleged sexual harassment case involving 16 students from the Faculty of Law. They are urging the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology to intervene directly, investigate the university's Sexual Violence Prevention and Handling Task Force, and evaluate UI's status as an educational institution for failing to address such incidents effectively. The demands include holding ethical trials, permanent expulsion of the perpetrators, dismissal decrees, resolution of all pending cases, and permanent suspension of the perpetrators' organisations within the student body.

Indef: Indonesia has potential to export up to 2 million tonnes of fertiliser

Indonesia possesses significant potential as a fertiliser exporter, particularly urea, with an annual production capacity of 14.8 million tonnes, allowing for exports of 1.5 to 2 million tonnes once domestic needs are secured. This opportunity arises amid global supply disruptions from Middle East conflicts, supported by ample raw materials, high international demand, and efficient production. Experts emphasise prioritising local farmers' access to subsidised fertiliser to maintain agricultural productivity while enhancing regional food security through exports.

Ticket Price Rp 200,000, Bangunkarta and Singasari New Generation Trains Use Captain Seats

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (PT KAI) has modernised the Bangunkarta and Singasari trains with new Stainless Steel New Generation carriages, featuring captain seats, adjustable reclining angles, electric doors, prayer rooms, restaurant cars, and tempered double-glass windows to enhance passenger comfort and safety. These upgrades, launched on 14 April 2026, aim to improve service quality on routes from Jombang and Blitar in East Java to Pasar Senen in Jakarta. Tickets are priced at Rp 200,000, with promotional go-show options available via the Access by KAI app or at stations.

North Jakarta Police Request Public to Report Criminal Acts

North Jakarta Metropolitan Police are urging residents to report criminal activities promptly to enable swift action, highlighting recent successes in uncovering nine motorcycle thefts and four violent robberies. Over January to April 2026, authorities arrested 26 suspects involved in 15 crimes, including aggravated theft, vehicle theft, and serious assaults, with seized evidence encompassing vehicles, motorcycles, sharp weapons, and a mobile phone. This integrated effort aims to deter street crimes and social ills through firm and measured enforcement.

RI President Scheduled to Attend Two May Day 2026 Events

President Prabowo Subianto is set to participate in two key events for May Day 2026, including a speech at the National Monument in Jakarta with 200,000 workers and the inauguration of the Ibu Marsinah Museum in Nganjuk, East Java, highlighting labour struggles. The events will focus on advancing workers' welfare policies and industrial revival in Indonesia, with discussions planned between labour leaders and the government. The KSPSI has also praised the police for resolving major layoff cases at companies like PT Tarumartani, PT Daicheng, and PT Multi Strada.

Saudi Arabia urges US to lift Hormuz Strait blockade

Saudi Arabia has urged the United States to end its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and resume negotiations with Iran, amid fears that the action could escalate tensions and disrupt vital shipping routes. The blockade, announced by President Donald Trump and effective from Monday, follows failed talks in Islamabad after a two-week ceasefire aimed at halting US and Israeli attacks on Iran that have killed over 1,400 people since late February. Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, emphasise the need for diplomatic resolution to prevent Iran from gaining control over the economically critical strait.