Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 14 April 2026

Showing 251-300 of 1,583 articles

Mirae Asset Sekuritas Transforms Business into Wealth Management

PT Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia is set to launch its business transformation into a comprehensive wealth management service in early Q3 2026, aiming to provide integrated investment solutions for retail clients, particularly affluent and high net worth individuals. The company plans to integrate existing platforms like HOTS, Neo HOTS, and NAVI into a single M-STOCK app, while expanding offerings to include dynamic products such as gold-based ETFs, moving beyond traditional stock brokerage to education and diverse instruments like bonds and mutual funds. This strategic shift is projected to boost its retail client base from 420,000 to 500,000 by the end of 2026, capitalising on the growing potential of Indonesia's ETF market.

Ahmad Baharudin Appointed as Acting Regent of Tulungagung Following KPK Sting Operation

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has officially appointed Deputy Regent Ahmad Baharudin as Acting Regent of Tulungagung after Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo was named a suspect in a Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) sting operation involving alleged gratification demands of Rp5 billion from local government offices. The appointment ensures continuity of governance in the regency, in line with Law No. 23 of 2014 on Regional Government, and Baharudin, a Gerindra Party politician, previously won the 2024 election as Gatut's running mate. This development highlights ongoing anti-corruption efforts in Indonesia's regional administration, with Gatut accused of misusing funds for luxury purchases and personal expenses, facing charges under anti-corruption laws.

Kendari Detention Centre Investigates Viral Officer Escorting Corruption Inmate to Coffee Shop

The Kendari Class IIA Detention Centre is conducting an intensive investigation into an officer who went viral for escorting a corruption convict, initialled S, to a coffee shop in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi. The inmate was officially out for a case review hearing but stopped for prayer and lunch on the return journey, creating the impression of undue freedom. The facility promises sanctions for any procedural violations and will soon release the full findings to the public.

Witness Reveals BPKP Audit Found No Issues with Chromebook Prices, Distribution Becomes a Note

In a corruption trial over the procurement of Chromebooks at the Central Jakarta District Court, former Director General of Early Childhood, Primary, and Secondary Education Iwan Syahril testified that a BPKP audit from 2020 to 2022 identified no significant pricing issues in the procurement process. However, the audit highlighted inaccuracies in the distribution of devices to schools, with some intended recipients not receiving them. This testimony underscores potential inefficiencies in government procurement and distribution despite clean pricing, potentially impacting the ongoing legal proceedings.

Bold Move on 16th Anniversary: ITSEC Asia Launches Free 'Cyber Shield' for Millions of Users!

PT ITSEC Asia Tbk, a leading Indonesian cybersecurity firm, celebrated its 16th anniversary by announcing the launch of IntelliBron Aman Enterprise, a free enterprise-level mobile cybersecurity solution for employees, students, and government officials. The product addresses growing digital threats in Indonesia, building on the company's strong financial performance in 2025 with revenue growth of 62% to Rp527.1 billion and net profit of Rp65.4 billion, while also establishing a Cyber and AI Academy to tackle talent shortages. This initiative underscores ITSEC Asia's commitment to enhancing national digital resilience amid rapid transformation in government, finance, education, and industry sectors.

Riau Police Chief Takes Firm Action Against Narcotics Abuse, with Panipahan as Focus for Improvement

The Riau Regional Police, led by Inspector General Herry Heryawan, has launched a comprehensive crackdown on narcotics abuse in Panipahan, Rokan Hilir Regency, by forming an Anti-Narcotics Task Force and conducting a major personnel rotation to ensure integrity and zero tolerance. This initiative includes internal evaluations, collaboration with the provincial National Narcotics Agency, and community engagement to designate Panipahan as a drug-free zone, emphasising both enforcement and social resilience. The measures aim to enhance security and public order by addressing narcotics as a root cause of regional instability through integrated law enforcement and preventive education.

Response to FHUI Case: Brian Tolerates No Violence on Campus

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) has firmly stated its zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of violence in higher education institutions, in response to a recent violent incident at the Faculty of Law, University of Indonesia (FHUI). Minister Brian Yuliarto emphasised the need for safe, inclusive, and dignified campus environments, referencing the 2024 regulation on prevention and handling of violence, which mandates the formation of task forces and ensures victim protection and recovery. The ministry is coordinating with UI to oversee investigations, provide support to victims, and promote transparency, while committing to broader educational and institutional strengthening to foster integrity and justice in academia.

Deputy Interior Minister Urges East Java Provincial Government to Synchronise Development Planning

Deputy Interior Minister Ribka Haluk has urged the East Java Provincial Government to enhance synchronisation in development planning across provincial, regency, and city levels to ensure balanced economic growth. Speaking at the Musrembang RKPD for 2027 in Surabaya, she emphasised the governor's role under Law No. 23 of 2014 in promoting equitable economic progress and praised the region's improving Human Development Index (IPM), while highlighting unemployment as a key challenge. Ribka expressed hope that East Java, under its 'Jatim Gerbang Baru Nusantara' slogan, could drive economic momentum for eastern Indonesia, supporting the nation's Golden Indonesia 2045 vision.

Video: Indonesia's Economy Grows 5.5% - Strait of Hormuz Triggers Global Food Crisis

Indonesia's economy demonstrated robust performance throughout 2025, achieving a growth rate of 5.11%, significantly surpassing the global average of 2.6% to 3.3% as reported by the IMF, OECD, and World Bank, positioning it among the top performers in the G20 group. Meanwhile, the FAO has warned that prolonged disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could spark a global food catastrophe by hindering the supply of essential energy and fertilisers vital for agricultural production. This dual narrative underscores Indonesia's economic resilience amid international risks to food security.

Analyst: Prabowo-Putin Meeting Strengthens Strategic Cooperation

Political analyst Iwan Setiawan has stated that the meeting between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin will bolster strategic cooperation in energy and military sectors, particularly as Indonesia joins BRICS in 2025. He emphasised the importance of this partnership amid global uncertainties, including the escalating Middle East conflict, and hopes it leads to concrete agreements that could facilitate peace initiatives. Iwan highlighted Indonesia's potential to leverage its free and active foreign policy to mediate in international disputes, especially given Russia's influence and Indonesia's ties with Iran and the US.

New Coal-to-Gas Transformation Could Explode Added Value by 5.7 Times!

PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) is advancing coal downstreaming initiatives, including a coal-to-synthetic natural gas (SNG) project in partnership with PT Perusahaan Gas Negara Tbk (PGN), which could boost added value by 5.7 times compared to raw coal sales. The project aims to provide alternative gas supplies from South Sumatra to West Java, utilising 9 million tonnes of coal to produce 237 BBTUD capacity, with PGN as the sole off-taker. Additionally, PTBA is developing a dimethyl ether (DME) project as an LPG import substitute, potentially increasing value by 4.3 times, with Pertamina handling all output.

Bitcoin Hits Record High Breaking Rp1.28 Billion, US-Iran Peace Hopes Drive Crypto Rally

Bitcoin surged to a four-week high of US$74,901 (approximately Rp1.28 billion) on 14 April 2026, driven by market optimism over potential peace talks between the US and Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. This rally, which also lifted Ethereum by about 5% to US$2,370, reflects broader gains in risk assets as expectations of de-escalation could lower oil prices and bolster global economic growth. Analysts note Bitcoin's improving performance relative to other risk assets but caution that sustained bullish momentum depends on breaking key resistance levels and regulatory clarity, such as US approval of the Clarity Act.

Pramono Allows Political Parties to Buy Naming Rights for Bus Stops, Analyst: Could Become Disguised Political Campaign

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung plans to allow political parties and brands to purchase naming rights for public transport stops as part of modernising the city, but public policy expert Trubus Rahadiansah warns this could lead to disguised political campaigning in public spaces. He argues that such facilities, funded by public money, should remain neutral to avoid social conflicts like vandalism or clashes between supporters. Trubus recommends restricting naming rights to neutral commercial entities to generate revenue without political bias.

PP Tunas restricts social media access for children under 16, doctor reveals medical reasons

Indonesia has implemented Government Regulation (PP) No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic Systems in Child Protection, known as PP Tunas, which limits social media access for children under 16 to safeguard their development. Paediatrician Dr. Bernie Medise Endiyani explains that this age threshold aligns with brain development stages, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for decision-making and self-control but does not mature fully until the early 20s. The regulation addresses risks such as one-way content stimulation, speech delays, sleep disturbances, anxiety, cyberbullying, and grooming, highlighting the need for restrictions on high-risk digital content.

Heavy Rain Triggers Landslides at Several Points in Sleman

Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds struck Sleman Regency on Tuesday (14/4), causing landslides in the Pakem, Cangkringan, and Tempel districts that disrupted road access. In Pakem, landslides affected road embankments in Cemoroharjo and Randu, while in Cangkringan, debris blocked the route to Pentingsari hamlet, and in Tempel, a riverbank collapse in Banyurejo posed risks due to a precarious banyan tree. The Sleman BPBD, along with locals and village officials, conducted assessments and clean-ups, with no fatalities reported as of the latest update.

Khofifah Emphasises Precision Planning for Inclusive Welfare

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa highlighted the critical role of data-driven, precise development planning during the Musrenbang for the 2027 Regional Government Work Plan in Surabaya, aiming to ensure inclusive and impactful growth aligned with national priorities. She outlined achievements in health coverage, reaching 97.71% JKN participation, economic disparity reduction through the Pansela road project, and expansions in village cooperatives and education programmes like Sekolah Rakyat. This collaborative approach via the pentahelix model seeks to accelerate poverty alleviation, enhance transparency, and foster sustainable welfare towards Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045.

West Sumatra and Jakarta explore options for food security cooperation

The governments of West Sumatra and DKI Jakarta are discussing collaboration to strengthen food security, focusing on agriculture and livestock sectors, with West Sumatra offering its surpluses in rice, shallots, chocolate, coffee, and animal husbandry to meet Jakarta's needs. This partnership leverages Jakarta's strong fiscal resources against West Sumatra's abundant land and production capacity, particularly as the province has achieved rice self-sufficiency and Solok Regency serves as a national shallot hub. The initiative is timely amid global meteorological warnings of a potential Godzilla El Niño impacting Indonesia's agriculture, potentially diversifying Jakarta's supply sources beyond traditional areas like Cianjur.

DayOne Announces RM28+ Billion Commitment and Talent Initiatives in Malaysia at Inaugural Tech & AI Career Expo

DayOne, a Singapore-headquartered digital infrastructure firm, has committed over RM28 billion to Malaysia, aiming to scale its operations to become its largest global footprint by 2026, accounting for more than 50% of its workforce expansion and creating over 5,000 jobs across the supply chain. The announcement, made at the inaugural Tech & AI Career Expo in Kuala Lumpur, includes the expansion of its Global Shared Services Center in the capital and a new Regional Operations and Training Hub in Johor to train 1,000 data center engineers, alongside two talent programs for young professionals. Witnessed by key government agencies and featuring remarks from Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, this initiative underscores DayOne's role in bolstering Malaysia's digital economy and positioning the country as a regional hub for AI and technology.

Mustahik succeeds in generating profits in culinary business after Baznas RI mentoring

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) RI has empowered mustahik Rianto from Matraman, Jakarta, through its Village Microfinance Programme (BMD), leading to significant growth in his "Papa Pizza" culinary business since joining in 2023. Rianto reports monthly revenues of Rp7-8 million, thanks to business capital, supportive facilities, and ongoing mentoring on marketing, packaging, and customer service, which have enabled him to educate his children and expand operations. Baznas RI's Secretary General, Subhan Cholid, praises this success as evidence of the programme's effectiveness in creating new muzaki and breaking the cycle of poverty, hoping it inspires wider implementation.

NATO Rejects Joining US in Blocking Strait of Hormuz

In the wake of failed 21-hour negotiations in Pakistan, the US has imposed a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz targeting Iranian ports, escalating tensions in the ongoing Iran-US-Israel conflict that began in February 2026. European allies, including the UK and France, have refused to participate, opting instead for a defensive multinational mission to escort tankers through the strait, pending NATO approval. The conflict has highlighted Iran's resilient asymmetric warfare tactics, leading to a temporary ceasefire and US concessions, amid global concerns over surging oil prices and broader geopolitical ramifications.

Parliament Urges UI to Impose Strict Sanctions on Sexual Harassment Perpetrators

Indonesia's House of Representatives Deputy Chairman of Commission X, Lalu Hadrian Irfani, has called on Universitas Indonesia to transparently address a sexual harassment case allegedly involving 16 law faculty students, highlighting weaknesses in the implementation of the 2024 Ministerial Regulation on preventing violence in higher education. The incident, involving verbal and digital harassment exposed through leaked group chats targeting female students and lecturers, has sparked public outrage and prompted student demands for expulsion of the perpetrators. Commission X plans to summon UI's rector and other university leaders to ensure commitment to eradicating such violence, emphasising the need for campuses to provide safe environments for learning.

Malaysia repatriates high-value art, including a Picasso, seized in 1MDB probe

Malaysia's anti-corruption agency has repatriated four valuable artworks, including a 1961 Pablo Picasso print, recovered as part of the ongoing efforts to reclaim assets from the 1MDB scandal, which involved the siphoning of over US$4.5 billion from the state fund between 2009 and 2014. The pieces, valued at around US$198,000, were seized from a former 1MDB lawyer and stored at auction houses in the US before being returned following discussions with American authorities. This recovery, part of assets totaling US$7.90 billion or nearly 70 per cent of identified 1MDB-linked properties, underscores the international pursuit of illicit funds and the conviction of former prime minister Najib Razak for related graft.

Indonesia's Car Exports Decline in March 2026, Toyota Provides Explanation

Indonesia's national exports of four-wheeled or more vehicles slowed by 20% in March 2026, with Toyota attributing the decline solely to reduced working days due to the Lebaran holiday, rather than the Iran-Israel-US conflict. According to Gaikindo data, completely built-up (CBU) vehicle exports totalled 36,867 units, down from 46,585 in February, while completely knocked-down (CKD) exports fell 36.2% to 5,038 sets. This temporary slowdown highlights the impact of seasonal factors on the automotive export sector, which saw a 7.5% year-on-year decrease.

ITB Researcher Advocates Tax Reduction on Cars, Believes It Can Boost Sales

A senior researcher from the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) is urging the Indonesian government to reduce taxes on vehicles to stimulate sales and drive national economic growth, arguing that current taxes, comprising 40% of vehicle prices, are disproportionately high relative to the GDP ratio. He cites successful fiscal stimuli during the COVID-19 pandemic and warns that high taxes foster a high-cost economy that hampers consumer purchasing power and industrial expansion. Additionally, research from the University of Indonesia highlights how localisation-based incentives for the automotive sector could enhance GDP growth, job creation, and the shift towards electrified vehicles, projecting national car sales to reach 1.32 million units by 2030 with increased market share for hybrid and electric models.

Indonesian President Sad to See Abandoned Building - US-Iran Set to Negotiate

President Prabowo's visit to Russia highlights lesser-known historical ties between Indonesia and the country. Meanwhile, a new round of negotiations between the United States and Iran is scheduled for Thursday, 16 April 2026, with Pakistan proposing to host the talks in Islamabad. These developments underscore ongoing international diplomacy efforts amid regional tensions.

Social Minister and Deputy Urge Palopo Mayor to Prepare Land for People's School

Indonesia's Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) and Deputy Minister Agus Jabo Priyono met with Palopo Mayor Naili Trisal to encourage the establishment of a People's School in the city, aiming to enhance poverty alleviation efforts in South Sulawesi. They advised coordinating with the Ministry of Public Works to address land constraints, while specifying requirements for safe and accessible sites away from disaster-prone areas. The discussion also covered the need for regular updates to PBI JK health insurance beneficiary data to ensure aid reaches those truly in need.

Evaluation Results of ASN WFH Implementation Every Friday Released, Will the Policy Continue?

The Indonesian government has positively assessed the first week of implementing a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) every Friday, noting that it proceeded smoothly and maintained performance levels, drawing on experiences from the Covid-19 pandemic. Minister Rini Widyantini emphasised that public services remain a top priority, with essential operations unaffected, though improvements are needed in digital infrastructure and task mapping. Evaluations will continue every two months to ensure long-term efficiency, energy savings, and environmental benefits, reflecting an ongoing bureaucratic transformation.

PAM Jaya's Performance Deemed Improved in Service Coverage Expansion

PT PAM Jaya, the Jakarta government's water utility, has shown significant improvements in performance, particularly in expanding service coverage to 80.24% by the end of 2025, serving 1.17 million customers compared to 65.85% in 2023. This growth, supported by infrastructure development and operational efficiencies, has boosted financial performance and laid the foundation for achieving 100% piped water access in Jakarta by 2029. Activists and company leaders emphasise the need for sustained quality improvements and equitable access to clean water for all residents.

Bank Mandiri Organises Mass Blood Donation, Targeting Participation from 2,800 Donors

Bank Mandiri has launched a nationwide mass blood donation drive in collaboration with the Indonesian Red Cross, aiming to secure 2,800 donors across over 10 cities and regencies from 14 to 19 April 2026, starting with 700 participants at its Jakarta headquarters. This initiative underscores the state-owned bank's commitment to public health as part of its corporate social responsibility, addressing national blood stock shortages and reinforcing its role as a responsive agent of development. The programme includes online registration, health screenings, and plans for regular events to ensure sustained impact on community well-being.

Police Chief urges workers and entrepreneurs to maintain Indonesia's investment climate

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has called on workers and business owners to collaborate in fostering a conducive investment environment amid global geopolitical challenges. He highlighted Indonesia's abundant natural resources and large workforce as key strengths for competing internationally, while advocating for joint discussions to revise the Job Creation Law to ensure mutual agreements that support economic growth. This initiative aims to demonstrate to the world that Indonesia can resolve industrial disputes peacefully, thereby enhancing its appeal as a safe investment destination.

Europe considers reducing energy demand as prices soar

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has highlighted the need to cut energy demand to combat the escalating crisis amid soaring prices triggered by Middle East tensions. She noted that the EU has spent over €22 billion on fossil fuel imports in the last 44 days and stressed that the cheapest energy is the one not used, proposing measures like building renovations and industrial equipment upgrades while respecting consumer choice. Von der Leyen warned of the high costs of fossil fuel dependency and reaffirmed the bloc's commitment to affordable domestic energy production and decarbonisation strategies.

BMKG: Dry Season in West Java Arrives Earlier and Lasts Longer

Indonesia's Meteorological, Climatological, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has forecasted that the dry season in West Java will commence earlier than usual, affecting 66% of the region ahead of schedule, with its peak expected in August across 90% of the area. The prolonged dry spell is anticipated to heighten risks of drought, water scarcity, and wildfires, prompting calls for optimised water resource management and adaptive farming practices. This weather anomaly underscores the need for proactive measures in agriculture and disaster preparedness to mitigate economic and social impacts in the province.

Impact of Middle East Conflict, Singapore Pushes for Exchange Rate Strengthening

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has decided to tighten its monetary policy in April 2026 by slightly increasing the rate of appreciation of the Singapore dollar's nominal effective exchange rate (S$NEER), marking a shift from previous periods of maintaining the policy stance. This pre-emptive measure aims to curb rising inflation risks and economic uncertainties stemming from global geopolitical conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, which are driving up energy prices and disrupting supply chains. By allowing the Singapore dollar to strengthen more rapidly, MAS seeks to suppress imported inflation and maintain medium-term price stability amid heightened external pressures.

South Sulawesi Ministry of Hajj Office Warns Public of No Furoda Hajj Visas This Year

The South Sulawesi Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs has cautioned the public against offers of Furoda Hajj visas, as Saudi Arabia has tightened entry rules and ceased issuing these special visas for this year. Officials emphasise vigilance against illegal Hajj schemes promoted via social media, with threats of licence revocation and criminal charges for travel agencies involved. This comes amid increasing Hajj quotas for the province, rising from 7,272 in 2025 to 9,670 in 2026, yet long waiting times persist for regular pilgrims.

Deputy Interior Minister Urges East Java Provincial Government to Strengthen Development Synchronisation

Deputy Interior Minister Ribka Haluk has urged the East Java provincial government to enhance synchronisation in development planning across provincial, regency, and city levels to ensure balanced economic growth throughout the region. She highlighted the governor's crucial role in maintaining regional development stability, as per Law No. 23 of 2014, and praised the province's positive trends in human development index while addressing concerns over unemployment. The call aligns with East Java's vision as the "New Gateway to the Archipelago," aiming to boost economic potential particularly for eastern Indonesia, amid efforts to leverage the demographic bonus.

OJK Releases Two Special Strategies for Indonesia's Capital Market, Here is the Full Content

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued two strategic roadmaps for 2026-2030 aimed at enhancing Indonesia's capital market: one for developing derivatives markets based on capital market instruments and another for sustainable capital markets. These initiatives seek to deepen financial markets, bolster investor protection, and promote sustainable funding and investment to support national economic growth and Indonesia's net zero emissions target by 2060. The derivatives roadmap focuses on four pillars including investor protection, intermediary harmonisation, market development, and infrastructure efficiency, while the sustainable roadmap emphasises policy foundations, activity growth, participation incentives, and international collaboration, with projections for significant growth in sustainable bonds, sukuk, and ESG-based mutual funds.

Police Arrest Perpetrators of Robbery with Violence Against Firefighter in Central Jakarta

Jakarta police have arrested five suspects in a violent robbery targeting a 29-year-old firefighter in central Jakarta, with four others still at large. The incident, which involved assault and theft, prompted a swift investigation using CCTV footage, leading to the arrests at a hotel in North Jakarta. Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has called for provincial support to assist the victim and ensure the case is reported to law enforcement, underscoring the authorities' commitment to combating street crimes in the capital.

Airlangga States Indonesia's Economy Remains Resilient Amid Global Challenges - BCA Sekuritas

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto highlighted Indonesia's economic resilience, achieving 5.11% growth in 2025 despite global projections of only 2.6-3.3%, driven by strong domestic demand, stable external sectors, and effective government policies. Key indicators include controlled inflation, a 70-month trade surplus, expanding manufacturing, and substantial foreign exchange reserves, alongside social improvements like reduced poverty to 8.25% and unemployment to 4.7%. The government is accelerating downstreaming investments, which reached Rp584.1 trillion in 2025, and enhancing the business climate through regulatory reforms and special economic zones to sustain long-term growth.

Immigration Makassar Foils Foreigner's Attempt to Forge Passport Using Fake ID Card

Immigration officials in Makassar thwarted an attempt by a Chinese national to obtain an Indonesian passport using a forged ID card, uncovering systematic manipulation of population data. The suspect, who holds a limited stay permit, was identified through biometric scanning during the application process, revealing the invalidity of supporting documents like the family card and birth certificate. Authorities are pursuing legal action and urging better coordination with civil registry offices to prevent foreigners from exploiting the system, noting that only permanent residents can obtain special foreign e-ID cards, not standard Indonesian ones.

Avtur Price Increase, Menhaj Assures Hajj Pilgrims Depart on Schedule 22 April

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has assured that the recent rise in aviation fuel (avtur) prices will not affect the departure of Hajj pilgrims, which remains scheduled for 22 April following entry into dormitories on 21 April. Any additional costs arising from the price hike will be covered by state finances, potentially from the national budget, without burdening the pilgrims, as negotiations continue with airlines like Garuda and Saudi authorities to determine the actual increase. Additionally, the distribution of luggage to pilgrims is set to be completed by 17 April, with the ministry issuing warnings and assistance to companies for previous delays.

UMPR and Bank Indonesia Collaborate to Strengthen Central Banking Education

Universitas Muhammadiyah Palangka Raya (UMPR) and the Bank Indonesia Representative Office in Central Kalimantan have signed a cooperation agreement to enhance central banking literacy and understanding among UMPR's academic community through the 2026 Central Banking Education Programme. The partnership aims to strengthen the curriculum with practical implementations, involving BI practitioners in teaching to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and real-world policy insights. This collaboration is part of Bank Indonesia's strategy to build a sustainable ecosystem for central banking education, fostering superior human resources to contribute to regional development in Central Kalimantan.

Sritex (SRIL) to Be Delisted from the Stock Exchange: What Happens to Investors, Including Lo Kheng Hong?

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has confirmed the delisting of PT Sri Rejeki Isman Tbk (SRIL), known as Sritex, effective 10 November 2026, following the company's bankruptcy declaration. This decision, based on BEI Regulation No. I-N, stems from significant negative financial and legal events that threaten the firm's viability without adequate recovery prospects, after over 24 months of trading suspensions. The move raises concerns for thousands of retail investors, including prominent figures like Lo Kheng Hong who holds 1.02% of shares, as well as major institutional holders, potentially leaving them with illiquid assets and uncertain futures.

Business Owners Demand Strict Moratorium on New Cement Factory Investments, What's Going On?

Indonesia's cement industry is grappling with chronic overcapacity, with utilisation rates hovering around 53%, leading to intense competition and suboptimal operations for many factories. Industry leaders, represented by Asperssi, are urging the government to enforce a tighter moratorium on new cement plant investments to prevent further oversupply, estimated at 55 million tonnes, and to prioritise more efficient producers. Despite new capacities aimed largely at exports, concerns persist about their impact on the domestic market, especially as demand growth is projected at only 5-6% annually, suggesting no need for additional plants in the next five years.

Ongoing Since 2025, Reasons Why Victims of FH UI Student Harassment Hesitate to Report

Alleged sexual harassment by students at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law has been occurring since 2025, involving a group chat with derogatory comments targeting 27 victims, including 20 students and 7 lecturers. Victims delayed reporting due to fears, psychological pressure, and social repercussions within the campus environment, highlighting significant concerns over safety and protection mechanisms in higher education. The case, pursued for over 1.5 years, has drawn public attention and underscores the complexities victims face in academic settings.

World Probation Congress in Bali Formulates Ideal Inmate Rehabilitation Model

The 7th World Congress on Probation and Parole (WCPP) in Bali has formulated an ideal model for inmate rehabilitation, emphasising smarter justice, restoration, and social harmony to shift from punitive imprisonment towards evidence-based reintegration. Indonesian Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services, Agus Andrianto, highlighted the congress's recommendations as a global reference, with over 400 delegates from 40 countries sharing experiences, including Indonesia's empowerment-focused approach. The event also featured exhibitions of inmates' crafts and performances, showcasing rehabilitation efforts from Bali's correctional facilities.

Reasons Why Civil Servants from Ministries/Institutions Are Trained as Reserve Components at Military Education Centres

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has released 2,019 civil servants (ASN) from various ministries and institutions to undergo training as Reserve Components (Komcad) at six military education centres around Jakarta, marking the first such programme aimed at fostering nationalism and patriotism. The initiative, announced by Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, involves initial assessments from 13 to 17 April followed by formal training starting 22 April, including weapons knowledge and shooting practice, with plans to train a total of 4,000 ASN in two waves this year. This effort underscores the government's push to enhance civil servants' dedication to the nation through military-style preparedness.

House Speaker reminds that equitable education services are a fundamental right of children

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has emphasised that providing equitable education services is a fundamental right of children that the state must fulfil, highlighting ongoing issues such as inadequate school infrastructure and difficult access to education in remote areas. She cited examples including students in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, learning under trees, and children in Central Sulawesi crossing strong river currents to attend school. Puan stressed the need for prioritised, equitable development of both main and supporting educational infrastructure to ensure the state's presence is felt at the grassroots level, urging greater sensitivity to simple yet impactful social needs.

KPK Seizes 6 Items During Examination of Faizal Assegaf, Including Electronic Devices

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) seized six items, including electronic devices, from Faizal Assegaf during his examination as a witness in a corruption case involving importations at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise under the Ministry of Finance. Assegaf admitted to receiving the items from a suspect in the case, prompting the immediate seizure by investigators. In response to KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo's statements, Assegaf filed a defamation report against him with the Metro Jaya Police, claiming the remarks falsely implicated him in the scandal, though Budi dismissed any issue with the complaint.

Japan and Oman Agree to Promote Reduction of Tensions in the Middle East

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said agreed during a telephone discussion to collaborate on de-escalating tensions in the Middle East, including ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Takaichi emphasised Japan's support for maintaining the US-Iran ceasefire and pursuing diplomatic efforts for a lasting agreement, amid recent high-level talks that yielded no breakthroughs. Japan, reliant on the region for over 90% of its crude oil imports, also plans to consider aid for Oman's infrastructure recovery following Iranian attacks on Gulf states.

"Middle power" strengthens, FPCI urges Indonesia to formulate new diplomatic strategy

Dino Patti Djalal, founder of the Foreign Policy Community of Indonesia (FPCI), has called on the Indonesian government to develop a new diplomatic strategy amid the rising influence of middle power nations from both the Global North and South. Speaking at the Middle Power Conference in Jakarta, he highlighted the growing cooperation among these approximately 20 countries and Indonesia's active efforts to strengthen ties with partners like Australia, France, India, South Korea, and Turkey. FPCI emphasises the need for Indonesia to identify key middle powers for closer engagement, build coalition-based relationships, and leverage its assets to shape the evolving global order.