Archive: 14 April 2026
Showing 401-450 of 1,583 articles
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:07 WIB
Iran Condemns US Blockade, Strait of Hormuz Threatened with Escalation
Iran has strongly condemned the United States' blockade of its ports as a grave violation of its sovereignty and international law, with its UN ambassador warning of serious threats to global peace. The US imposed the blockade to force Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for one-fifth of the world's oil and gas trade, amid failed peace talks and despite a fragile two-week ceasefire. This escalation risks disrupting global energy markets, potentially driving up prices and destabilising the international economy.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:06 WIB
Unnes Researcher Utilises Leaf Waste to Create Natural Dye Substances
Researchers at Universitas Negeri Semarang (Unnes) have developed a method to transform leaf waste from campus plants, such as mahogany and ketapang, into natural dyes for textiles, addressing challenges like colour fading and limited variety. The innovation was showcased at a dissemination event in Semarang, funded by LPDP and in collaboration with the Central Java Industry and Trade Office, highlighting its potential for commercialisation amid strong international demand despite higher costs compared to synthetic dyes. This initiative promotes sustainability and conservation, with partners like Omah Sawah integrating the dyes into products like batik and ecoprint while allocating sales proceeds to environmental efforts.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:05 WIB
Indonesia's Industry at Risk of Disaster, Business Owners: Plastic Raw Materials Scarce
Indonesian business owners have warned that the ongoing Middle East conflict is severely disrupting the supply chain for imported raw materials, particularly plastics, leading to shortages and production halts in key sectors like food and beverages. This crisis, compounded by economic slowdown and potential Iran-related threats, could jeopardise the entire industry and threaten jobs, prompting calls for government deregulation to ease import procedures and maintain price stability. Experts urge businesses to boost productivity while avoiding hasty layoffs to mitigate the impact on workers.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:04 WIB
Bareskrim Uncovers Smuggling in North Jakarta, Seizes Thousands of Illegal Imported Mobile Phones
Indonesian National Police's Bareskrim has raided a warehouse in North Jakarta, seizing thousands of illegal imported mobile phones suspected of being smuggled goods. The operation, led by Brigjen Ade Safri Simanjuntak, highlights ongoing efforts to combat economic crimes. Additionally, Bareskrim recently dismantled an illegal gold processing network involving money laundering worth Rp 25.9 trillion, originating from unlicensed mining in West Kalimantan and West Papua, leading to the arrest of three suspects and seizures of gold and cash valued at over Rp 157 billion.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:03 WIB
Get Ready, Lenovo "Comeback" to Make Gaming Phones After 4 Years Absent
Lenovo is set to re-enter the gaming smartphone market after a four-year hiatus, with plans to unveil an updated version of its Legion Y70 model in May 2026. While details on specifications, design, and the official name remain undisclosed, the device is expected to feature high-end capabilities and integrate with the existing Legion gaming ecosystem, potentially using advanced chips to compete with rivals like the RedMagic 11 Pro. This move could intensify competition in the high-performance gaming phone segment, where some established players are scaling back their efforts.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:02 WIB
Minister Announces Hajj Ticket Lottery Still Just a Concept, Pilgrim Queues Not to Be Cancelled
Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Moch Irfan Yusuf, has clarified that the proposed "ticket lottery" system for Hajj pilgrims remains in the discussion phase and will not invalidate existing waiting lists for those who have queued for years. The initiative aims to address the excessively long waiting times without reverting to pre-BPKH eras, but requires consultation with parliament, business stakeholders, and pilgrims before any decision. This reassurance comes amid criticisms of the initial proposal, highlighting the government's commitment to protecting long-standing pilgrim rights while seeking solutions for future efficiency.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:01 WIB
Pro-Israel Liberal Lobby Group Supports Halting US Military Aid to Tel Aviv
The liberal pro-Israel lobby group J Street has called for a gradual end to all US military aid to Israel by 2028, highlighting a significant shift in Washington's political landscape away from unconditional support. This stance, articulated by J Street's leader Jeremy Ben-Ami, emphasises normalising US-Israel relations by subjecting arms sales to the same legal standards as other nations, including human rights vetting under the Leahy Law. Amid declining public support, particularly among Democrats, this position reflects broader pressures on US policymakers to reassess military subsidies to Israel, potentially forcing policy changes in the region.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:01 WIB
From farms to labs, Indonesia bets on better seeds to boost food security
Indonesia is advancing its food self-sufficiency goals by 2027 through improved seed varieties that enhance agricultural productivity and resilience to climate change, as demonstrated by farmers in West Java and innovations from companies like PT East West Seed Indonesia. Government-backed institutions such as BRMP Biogen are preserving genetic resources and developing superior crops like salinity-tolerant rice and high-yield soybeans, such as Biosoy, to reduce import dependency on staples like soy. This initiative is already succeeding with rice, where no imports were needed in 2025, and is expanding to corn and sugar, strengthening national food security.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:00 WIB
Video: Potential Windfall Profits from Coal and Others – Boon or Dependency?
The Indonesian government is considering implementing a windfall tax on key export commodities such as coal, nickel, and CPO, which have seen price surges due to the Middle East conflict. Deputy Ferry Irawan from the Coordinating Ministry for the Economy explained that the tax calculations are based on differences between budget assumptions and market prices, duration of price increases, and impacts on investment climate, while global volatility is monitored to ensure APBN resilience. Amidst this, the government is pursuing spending efficiencies of Rp 120-130 trillion to safeguard priority programmes like free nutritious meals and affordable housing, highlighting the policy direction in an era of geopolitical tensions.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 18:00 WIB
In Demand! AI Job Openings on LinkedIn with Salaries Reaching Rp2.5 Million per Hour
LinkedIn is developing an "AI labour marketplace" platform that enables individuals to earn up to US$150 per hour (approximately Rp2.55 million) by training AI systems, marking a significant shift in the digital job landscape amid the booming AI industry. Job roles include evaluating AI responses, testing system capabilities, and refining outputs for accuracy, with specialised positions such as senior software engineering AI trainers offering the highest pay. This initiative reflects the rapid growth of AI training jobs, particularly in the US, and includes features like personalised notifications to match users' skills with opportunities.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:59 WIB
Impact of Godzilla El Niño in Indonesia: Potential to Boost Fisheries Production and Threat of Crop Failure
The phenomenon known as Godzilla El Niño, characterised by prolonged high temperatures and extended dry seasons, is expected to intensify drought conditions in Indonesia through a combination of strong El Niño and positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) from April to October 2026. Research from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) highlights a dual impact: enhanced upwelling off southern Java and western Sumatra could increase marine nutrient supply, boosting phytoplankton growth and fisheries production. However, this comes with significant risks of crop failures due to reduced rainfall, posing challenges to Indonesia's agricultural sector.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:59 WIB
New SLIK Rules: Small Credit History Does Not Hinder Mortgage Applications
The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has introduced new policies for the Financial Services Information System (SLIK) to support the government's three million housing programme, particularly for low-income households. Key changes include limiting recorded credit data to loans above Rp1 million and accelerating loan repayment updates to within three working days, aiming to streamline mortgage applications by reducing administrative barriers. Additionally, OJK is granting access to SLIK data for BP Tapera to enhance housing finance initiatives.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:59 WIB
Prabowo Requests Enhanced Indonesia-Russia Cooperation, Foreign Minister: Russia is an Important Trading Partner
President Prabowo Subianto has urged the strengthening of Indonesia-Russia ties, particularly in economic cooperation, during a five-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The discussions resulted in agreements on long-term collaboration in the energy and mineral resources sector, including oil and gas energy security and downstream processing, as well as commitments to expand partnerships in research, technology, agriculture, and investment. Foreign Minister Sugiono emphasised Russia's role as a key strategic and trading partner, with plans to bolster people-to-people relations alongside economic ties.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:58 WIB
ULM Secures Funding for 107 Research Proposals from Kemdiktisaintek
Universitas Lambung Mangkurat (ULM) has successfully secured funding for 107 research proposals through various schemes under the 2026 Research and Development Funding Programme by Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek). This achievement, highlighted by Rector Prof Ahmad Alim Bachri, stems from a systematic ecosystem built to enhance faculty research capacity, including regular coaching clinics organised by the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM). The proposals span applied research, collaborative efforts, and community empowerment initiatives, emphasising quality outputs with real societal impact.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:57 WIB
What is a Whistleblower? Definition, Examples, and Forms of Protection
This article explains the concept of a whistleblower as an individual who reports wrongdoing, particularly in the public interest, such as criminal acts, health and safety risks, or environmental damage, drawing from UK government and dictionary definitions. It provides examples of protected disclosures and notes that personal complaints do not qualify unless they involve public interest. In the Indonesian context, protection for whistleblowers is outlined in Supreme Court Circular No. 4 of 2011 and Law No. 13 of 2006, ensuring legal safeguards against retaliation and prioritising their reports in investigations.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:57 WIB
AI Can Help Boost Productivity in Small Industries
Muhammad Neil El Himam from the Ministry of Creative Economy highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing productivity for small-scale creative economy players and SMEs, particularly in production, supply chains, materials, and logistics. He emphasised the importance of learning and implementing AI to simplify tasks and foster innovation, including developing AI tools for broader business use. Additionally, the Badan Ekraf Digital Talent (BDT) 2026 programme will incorporate cyber security training to ensure secure AI adoption, especially for small industries where programming is becoming easier but security remains critical.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:57 WIB
KAI Transports 162,261 Tonnes of Plantation Products in First Quarter of 2026, Up from Same Period in 2025
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reported transporting 162,261 tonnes of plantation commodities in the first quarter of 2026, marking an increase from 156,100 tonnes in the same period of 2025, which underscores the reliability of rail logistics in supporting national distribution. This growth highlights the role of rail transport in ensuring efficient supply chains for plantation products, such as crude palm oil (CPO), which is vital for Indonesia's development of bio-based fuels and renewable energy initiatives. KAI's services contribute to economic stability by facilitating timely and secure movement of raw materials from upstream to downstream industries.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:56 WIB
Police Officer Suspected of Ignoring Missing Person Report in Pasar Minggu Examined by Propam of Metro Police
The Professional and Security Division (Propam) of Metro Jaya Police is investigating an officer from Pasar Minggu Police Station accused of neglecting a report about a missing elderly person. The incident involved a netizen who brought the disoriented Warisem to the station, only to receive a dismissive response from police, leading to the individual wandering off again before being found and reunited with family. Pasar Minggu Police Chief has apologised and pledged to improve services, highlighting issues in public assistance and police accountability in Indonesia.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:55 WIB
Indonesia applauds TikTok's move to protect children
Indonesia's Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has praised TikTok for complying with the country's child protection regulation (PP Tunas), which restricts social media access for children under 16, by setting a minimum user age of 16 and disabling 780,000 underage accounts as of April 10, 2026. This marks an early victory for public safety and child welfare, with TikTok being the first platform to report such actions, while six out of eight major platforms have now adhered to the rules, though Roblox and YouTube lag behind. The ministry has issued a three-month deadline for all platforms to submit self-assessment reports on their risk profiles, urging broader industry compliance to safeguard Indonesian youth.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:55 WIB
BPJPH Emphasises Mandatory Halal Certification for Logistics Sector by 2026
The Halal Product Assurance Organising Agency (BPJPH) has stressed that Indonesia's logistics sector must fully implement halal certification by 2026, extending the concept beyond food and beverages to the entire supply chain, including storage, packaging, and distribution. This mandate aims to protect local SMEs from imported products and ensure strict separation of halal and non-halal goods, such as meat, to maintain product integrity. BPJPH calls for stronger synergy between government and industry to build a competitive national halal ecosystem.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:55 WIB
Business Leaders Call for Special Task Force to Support President Prabowo's Hard Work
Indonesian business leaders have praised President Prabowo Subianto's diplomatic efforts in securing investment commitments from major countries including the UAE, US, Japan, and South Korea during his recent visit to Russia. However, they emphasise the need for a dedicated Task Force for Investment Monitoring and Acceleration to address domestic bureaucratic hurdles, regulatory inconsistencies, and technical barriers that could prevent these pledges from materialising. This initiative is seen as crucial to ensuring real economic impacts and positioning Indonesia as a competitive global investment destination.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:54 WIB
Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Accelerates Implementation of Carbon Economic Value in Marine and Fisheries Sector
The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is advancing the implementation of Carbon Economic Value (NEK) in the marine and fisheries sector to support a sustainable national blue economy. Minister Sakti Wahyu Trenggono highlighted three key pillars: regulatory development following Presidential Regulation No. 110 of 2025, strengthening data on blue carbon ecosystems like mangroves and seagrass, and launching pilot projects for restoration and emission reduction. These efforts aim to harness the sector's potential to absorb approximately 10 million tons of CO2 equivalent annually while ensuring legal frameworks for marine spatial planning and carbon trading.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:53 WIB
Central Kalimantan - Central Government Intensifies Communication to Find Solutions for People's Mining
The Central Kalimantan provincial government and the central government are intensifying communications to find solutions allowing people's miners to operate safely and legally. Deputy Governor Edy Pratowo highlighted ongoing efforts including meetings with miners' alliances, validations of mining area proposals, and discussions with national legislators and ministers to simplify regulations without equating small-scale operations to large corporate permits. This initiative aims to ensure economic opportunities for local communities and contributions to regional revenues while providing legal assurances.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:53 WIB
Vice President Gibran urges strengthening of national gaming industry
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has called for bolstering Indonesia's gaming industry during a meeting with WHIM Management Indonesia, emphasising its role as a key pillar of the creative economy in advancing national growth amid the digital era. The discussion aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita mission, focusing on creative economy enhancement, human resource development, and technology-driven innovation. Industry leaders expressed optimism that this engagement will accelerate the sector's expansion, aiming for significant contributions to Indonesia's economy by 2045.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:51 WIB
Road Subsidence at Dewi Sartika Bend: Damage Reaches 50 Percent and Causes Alarm
A severe road subsidence on Jalan Dewi Sartika in East Jakarta has damaged up to 50 percent of the subsurface structure, posing significant safety risks to motorists, particularly at a blind curve. Local road maintenance officials have implemented temporary repairs using compaction and cold mix asphalt, attributing the issue to prior utility works and calling for the responsible utility owners to undertake permanent fixes. The incident gained attention after going viral on social media, highlighting ongoing infrastructure challenges in urban areas.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:51 WIB
Police Bust Operation of 3 Illegal Oil Wells in Blora, Production Capacity Reaches 1,000 Litres per Day
Central Java Provincial Police have dismantled three illegal oil wells in Blora Regency, arresting three individuals who operated them on state forest land managed by Perhutani, with a combined production capacity of up to 1,000 litres per day. The wells, newly drilled to depths varying from 10 to 300 metres and operational for about three months, were reported by local residents and pose risks to the community. This crackdown highlights ongoing efforts to combat unauthorised resource extraction in protected areas, underscoring the importance of regulatory enforcement in Indonesia's energy sector.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:51 WIB
Malaysian and Australian Prime Ministers Scheduled to Meet to Discuss Various Issues
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to visit Malaysia from 15 to 17 April, where he will meet with his counterpart Anwar Ibrahim to discuss bilateral matters including energy security, trade, investment, renewable energy, and green technology, as well as the Middle East conflict and its global implications. The leaders aim to enhance diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and ensure the continuity of global trade routes and energy supply chains vital to their nations' prosperity. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached 78.63 billion ringgit in 2025, underscoring Australia's position as Malaysia's 12th largest trading partner, with relations elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:50 WIB
Hajj Minister on Ticket War: If Premature, We'll Close It
Indonesian Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf has acknowledged the controversy surrounding the proposed 'ticket war' system for Hajj pilgrimages, which aims to shorten waiting times by replacing queues with direct registration for those who can pay upfront. Facing criticism from lawmakers and associations, Irfan, who first floated the idea, has agreed to shelve the discussion temporarily to focus on preparations for the upcoming Hajj departures starting 22 April. The proposal, inspired by President Prabowo Subianto's directive to revolutionise Hajj management, revives a pre-existing system but has been deemed unfair by critics, given the 5.6 million people currently on the waiting list.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:49 WIB
Sugiono: Prabowo Asks Putin to Enhance Economic Cooperation with Indonesia
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono revealed that President Prabowo Subianto requested Russian President Vladimir Putin to strengthen economic cooperation between Indonesia and Russia during their meeting. The leaders discussed enhancing bilateral ties, particularly in trade and economic sectors, while continuing existing relations and planning future initiatives to bolster people-to-people connections. They also addressed geopolitical developments of mutual concern over lunch, underscoring Russia's role as a key trading partner for Indonesia.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:49 WIB
Megawati, Accompanied by Prananda, Receives Visit from Qatari Ambassador
Megawati Soekarnoputri, Indonesia's fifth president and PDIP chairwoman, hosted Qatari Ambassador Sultan bin Mubarak Al-Dosari at her Jakarta residence, introducing her son M. Prananda Prabowo and engaging in a warm two-hour dialogue. The meeting highlighted cultural exchanges through souvenir swaps and the ambassador's admiration for Megawati's legacy and her father's prominence in the Middle East, including an invitation for her to visit Qatar. This interaction underscores strengthening Indonesia-Qatar ties, particularly in women's equality, aligning with Qatar's progressive appointments of female ministers.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:49 WIB
Police Chief Invites Workers to Celebrate May Day, Emphasises Importance of Maintaining Conducive Investment Climate
Indonesian Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo urged workers and business owners to celebrate May Day on 1 May with unity and harmony, highlighting the need to foster a conducive investment climate amid global economic challenges. Speaking at a Halal Bihalal event for the KSPSI labour union, he stressed that a healthy industrial relationship is key to ensuring workers' prosperity, as thriving industries would secure their rights and incentives. He also encouraged informal dialogues between labour unions and employers on issues like the Job Creation Law to resolve potential legislative hurdles.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:47 WIB
PLN West Java Distribution Unit Strengthens EV Competencies at SMKN 8 Bandung, from Theory to Real Practice
PT PLN's West Java Distribution Unit has invested Rp 315.6 million in SMKN 8 Bandung to enhance electric vehicle skills through its social and environmental responsibility programme, transforming theoretical learning into practical training with new facilities like an EV classroom and TEFA workshop. The initiative trained 16 teachers and 165 students, along with participants from partner schools, providing certifications and prototypes such as converted electric motorcycles and a Micro Cargo EV for school use. This effort supports Indonesia's national electric vehicle ecosystem and energy transition by bridging vocational education with industry needs, potentially serving as a replicable model for sustainable EV development.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:47 WIB
Minister of Villages Promotes Collaboration in Serang to Enhance Education Quality
Minister of Villages and Underdeveloped Regions, Yandri Susanto, has called for collaboration between education stakeholders in Serang Regency, Banten, and the government to improve village education quality. He highlighted the One Village One PAUD programme, a partnership with the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education involving an MoU to build early childhood education facilities nationwide, including in Serang's 326 villages. This initiative supports the 13-year compulsory education policy by prioritising infrastructure for one year of preschool education.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:47 WIB
Bantul Regency Requests Temporary Halt to SPPG Supplier in Jetis After Students Suffer MBG Poisoning
Dozens of students and teachers in Jetis, Bantul, experienced food poisoning symptoms after consuming free nutritious meals (MBG) on Monday, prompting the Bantul Regency government to request a temporary suspension of the SPPG supplier. Approximately 80 individuals, primarily from SMPN Jetis, were affected, with all now reported to be in stable condition. Health officials are conducting laboratory tests on food samples to determine the cause, highlighting potential risks in the implementation of Indonesia's school feeding programme.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:46 WIB
KPK Examines 2 Officials from MA's Directorate General of General Courts, Probes Mutation of Depok District Court Chief and Deputy
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned two section heads from the Supreme Court's Directorate General of General Courts as witnesses in a bribery case involving land dispute execution at Depok District Court. The investigation focuses on the mutation of judicial positions and the flow of bribes allegedly sought by the court's chief and deputy, I Wayan Eka Mariarta and Bambang Setyawan, amounting to Rp 1 billion. This case, stemming from a dramatic sting operation, also implicates additional suspects from private firms and highlights ongoing issues of judicial corruption, including a separate gratuity charge against Bambang involving Rp 2.5 billion in foreign exchange conversion fees.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:45 WIB
Uproar Over Paid LPG Depot Registration Information, Pertamina Confirms Hoax
PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has debunked a viral TikTok video claiming that registration for subsidised 3kg LPG depots and sub-depots incurs fees, labelling it as misleading and false. The company emphasised that the 3kg LPG is a government-subsidised product distributed via a quota system to ensure it reaches eligible low-income communities, and registration is entirely free. Pertamina urged the public to verify information through official channels to avoid scams impersonating the company on social media.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:45 WIB
Easily Following Trends, Preventing Vaping Among Teenagers Must Start with Education
Prof Dr dr Agus Dwi Susanto, a leading pulmonologist from Universitas Indonesia, emphasises that preventing teenagers from using vapes requires comprehensive education involving families, healthcare professionals, government, and educational institutions, rather than targeting adolescents alone. He highlights the vulnerability of youths to trends and aggressive marketing that portrays vaping as a modern lifestyle, underscoring the need for consistent, repeated efforts to inform them of health risks like nicotine addiction. Without structured and ongoing interventions, vaping among teenagers could rise, posing long-term health threats, making multi-stakeholder action crucial for public health policy.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:45 WIB
Turbulence in the Strait of Hormuz Could Drive Up Inflation in Indonesia
Escalating geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East, particularly involving the US, Israel, and Iran, have heightened tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global energy trade. This disruption risks spiking global oil and LNG prices, as evidenced by WTI crude surging to $104.72 per barrel in March 2026 and LNG prices rising 67% year-on-year, while fertiliser costs have also jumped 95%. For Indonesia, these pressures could transmit inflationary effects through higher energy and commodity import costs, underscoring the nation's vulnerability to international supply chain shocks.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:45 WIB
EU Countries Reluctant to Accept New Members, Fearing Loss of Support
Several European Union countries are hesitant to admit new members due to fears that it could provoke public backlash and bolster extreme right-wing parties, according to diplomats and officials cited by Politico. This concern is particularly acute in France, where a referendum would be required, potentially aiding populist leaders like Jordan Bardella in the 2027 presidential election, while nations like Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy insist on proven reforms without geopolitical exceptions. The issue, originally slated for discussion at an EU summit in Cyprus, is now unlikely to proceed amid differing views among leaders, highlighting ongoing challenges in expanding the bloc to poorer nations like Ukraine.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:45 WIB
May Day! May Day! Plastic Prices Soaring, Traders Already Crying Out
Traders in Jakarta's traditional markets are restricting plastic bag usage and facing sharp price increases for plastic packaging due to the Middle East conflict, which has driven up production costs. Vendors like Bagus, a Javanese noodle seller, report thinwall containers doubling in price from Rp20,000–25,000 to Rp40,000, forcing them to add Rp2,000 fees for takeaway packaging. This economic pressure highlights the vulnerability of small businesses to global supply chain disruptions, potentially leading to higher consumer prices amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:44 WIB
KPK Investigates Assets of Former Manpower Ministry Secretary-General Heri Sudarmanto in Foreign Worker Permit Case
Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is probing the assets of former Secretary-General of the Ministry of Manpower, Heri Sudarmanto, who has been named a suspect in a bribery case involving foreign worker permits. The investigation includes examinations of witnesses such as Heri's son and private sector individuals to trace assets linked to the alleged corruption spanning 2019-2023, which amassed Rp53 billion. This case now involves eight suspects, highlighting systemic graft in the ministry's handling of RPTKA approvals.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:43 WIB
OKU Regency Accelerates Construction of Permanent People's School
The Ogan Komering Ulu (OKU) Regency government in South Sumatra is expediting the construction of a permanent People's School by securing a strategic 8-hectare plot of land, building on an existing pilot programme operating from a former training facility. Regent Teddy Meilwansyah has proactively approached the Ministry of Social Affairs to ensure the project begins this year, aiming to enhance educational access for underprivileged communities and break the cycle of poverty. Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf has praised the initiative and confirmed that OKU will be prioritised for the permanent build in 2023, underscoring strengthened central-local government collaboration in social welfare.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:42 WIB
Bali Provincial Government and Sarbagia Agree to Collaborate on 22 Projects
The Bali Provincial Government has partnered with local governments in Denpasar, Badung, and Gianyar—collectively known as Sarbagia—to jointly develop 22 strategic infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity, tourism, and sustainable economic growth across the island until 2029. Initially comprising 20 projects with four taken over by the central government, the initiative was expanded by adding six more, focusing on roads, ports, and agricultural facilities to address regional disparities, traffic congestion, and limited access in northern, eastern, and western Bali. This collaboration, funded partly through special financial assistance from high-revenue areas, underscores Bali's commitment to equitable development and cultural preservation, fostering balanced progress beyond the southern tourist hubs.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:42 WIB
Awaiting Government Directives, Pertamina to Study Types of Crude Oil from Russia
State-owned energy firm Pertamina has stated it will follow government directives regarding plans to purchase crude oil from Russia, while studying the compatibility of Russian crude with its refineries. This follows discussions between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Russian President Vladimir Putin on energy cooperation, including refinery development, oil trade enhancement, and clean energy collaboration. The initiative aims to bolster Indonesia's national energy security amid global market volatility.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:41 WIB
Government Responds Positively to ADB and FTSE Russell Assessments
The Indonesian Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs has welcomed positive evaluations from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and FTSE Russell, affirming the resilience of Indonesia's economy amid global geopolitical tensions and Middle East conflicts. The ADB projects steady growth of 5.2% for Indonesia in 2026 and 2027, surpassing regional averages, driven by strong domestic demand, controlled inflation, and infrastructure development, while FTSE Russell maintains Indonesia's status as a Secondary Emerging Market without downgrade risks. These endorsements validate the government's macroeconomic policies and structural reforms, with commitments to accelerate further improvements ahead of upcoming index reviews.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:40 WIB
KPK Investigates Assets of Former Kemnaker Secretary-General from Hanif Dhakiri Era
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is probing assets allegedly derived from corruption by Heri Sudarmanto, the former Secretary-General of the Ministry of Manpower during Hanif Dhakiri's tenure, by examining two witnesses on Tuesday. This investigation ties into broader allegations of extortion and gratification related to foreign worker permit processing, with Heri named a suspect in October 2025 and suspected of receiving funds over an extended period. Previously, KPK has prosecuted eight other suspects in a similar case, recovering over Rp8.61 billion in illicit gains from a total of Rp53.7 billion received between 2019 and 2024, highlighting systemic corruption within the ministry's employment directorate.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:40 WIB
Putin Invites Prabowo to Attend Industrial Exhibition in Russia in July
Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to attend events in Kazan in May and a major industrial exhibition in July, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations. The invitation follows a bilateral meeting at the Kremlin where the leaders discussed strategic cooperation in economy, trade, agriculture, and global issues such as multilateralism, peace efforts, and regional security. This engagement underscores Russia's role as a key strategic and trade partner for Indonesia, aiming to enhance people-to-people ties and mutual benefits.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:40 WIB
Agriculture Minister Wants Indonesia's Sugar Industry to Rise from the Grave: Here's How
The Indonesian government, led by Agriculture Minister Sudaryono, aims to revive the nation's sugar industry by boosting sugarcane yield rates to levels comparable to the colonial era, when Indonesia was the world's second-largest sugar producer. Key strategies include improving seed quality with a Rp9.9 trillion budget over three years, rejuvenating crops, and expanding suitable land without harming the environment, potentially enabling self-sufficiency and lower sugar prices. Currently, low yields of 7-8% compared to Thailand's 11-12% force reliance on imports, but enhancing productivity could triple output and reduce dependency.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:39 WIB
Profile and Wealth of Setiawan Budi Cahyono, Now Serving as Head of the Bali High Prosecutor's Office
Setiawan Budi Cahyono has been appointed as the Head of the Bali High Prosecutor's Office (Kajati Bali) by Attorney General ST Burhanuddin, succeeding Chatarina Muliana and bringing extensive experience in intelligence and legal case handling from previous roles including Director IV at the Attorney General's Office for Intelligence. Born in 1974, Setiawan is noted for his meticulous approach to evidence and early detection of legal issues, positioning him to tackle pressing matters in Bali such as land mafia allegations, investment disputes, and oversight of strategic projects. His latest wealth report to the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) in 2024 discloses assets totalling Rp 1.833 billion, primarily consisting of property in Malang, vehicles, cash, and other movable assets.
Tue, 14 Apr 2026, 17:39 WIB
TikTok sets 16-plus age limit in Indonesia under new rules
TikTok has introduced a 16-plus age limit for users in Indonesia to comply with Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Electronic System Governance for Child Protection, which mandates restrictions on children's access to high-risk digital platforms. The platform will notify affected accounts under 16 and provide verification and appeal options for those over the age who are mistakenly restricted, while maintaining robust safety settings and proactive content moderation. This move aligns TikTok with other platforms like Instagram and Facebook in full compliance, as the regulation takes effect on March 28, 2026, highlighting Indonesia's efforts to safeguard minors online.