Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 April 2026

Showing 451-500 of 1,595 articles

Nduga Regent Targets Type C Upgrade for Elvrida Sara General Hospital by 2027

The Nduga Regency government in Papua Pegunungan aims to elevate the status of Elvrida Sara General Hospital from type D to type C by 2027 through an ongoing accreditation process. Regent Yoas Beon emphasised that this upgrade will enhance healthcare standards, ensuring residents receive quality services comparable to those in other regions, as part of the local government's commitment to improving public health delivery. The initiative involves multi-sectoral support, including facility improvements, human resource development, and management reforms to guarantee transparent, patient-safety-focused care.

KPK Probes Extortion Attempts by Maidi During Tenure as Mayor of Madiun

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating allegations of extortion by Maidi, the former Mayor of Madiun, focusing on efforts to coerce private sector entities into providing corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds and other gratuities. On 14 April 2026, KPK examined 11 witnesses, including private individuals and a neighbourhood association official, to gather details on these coercive practices. This probe stems from a January 2026 sting operation that uncovered two clusters of corruption involving project kickbacks, CSR funds, and gratifications within the Madiun city government.

DKI Provincial Government Enhances Preparedness for Extraordinary Food Poisoning Events

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is bolstering readiness in its health and education sectors to address extraordinary food poisoning incidents, which remain a significant public health challenge in the capital. This follows a recent incident where at least 72 people, including schoolchildren, suffered suspected poisoning from the free nutritious meal programme in East Jakarta's Duren Sawit district. Officials emphasise the need for rapid response teams, timely reporting, and coordinated handling to safeguard the programme, which is vital for children's nutrition and the nation's future, underscoring the importance of vigilance across the entire food preparation chain.

Hajj 2026 Service Preparations Nearly 100 Percent Complete

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has announced that preparations for the 2026 Hajj services are almost fully complete, with final checks underway ahead of operations. The government has arranged accommodations in key areas of Mecca and Medina, established 40 clinics in Mecca and 5 in Medina with dedicated medical staff per group, and prepared 51 kitchens in Mecca and 23 in Medina for pilgrim meals. Transportation includes inter-city buses for major routes, 24-hour shuttle buses to the Grand Mosque, and special buses for the Arafah-Muzdalifah-Mina areas, with the last departure scheduled for 21 May 2026.

Government Guarantees Continued Healthcare Services for 11 Million Inactive BPJS PBI Participants

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Health, has assured that 11 million citizens affected by the deactivation of their Penerima Bantuan Iuran (PBI) status under the National Health Insurance scheme will continue to receive healthcare services for a three-month transitional period until the end of April 2026. This commitment follows an agreement with the DPR, with the Ministry issuing directives to hospitals to serve these patients while urging reactivation through updated economic verification by the Ministry of Social Affairs. The assurance addresses field-level challenges where some hospitals have rejected affected patients, emphasising that the government covers all services, including for catastrophic and chronic conditions, amid broader coverage for over 159 million Indonesians.

More People Implanting Computers in Brains, Here's the Latest

Science Corporation, founded by former Neuralink president Max Hodak, has partnered with renowned neurosurgeon Murat Günel to launch the first human trials of a biohybrid brain-computer interface in the US, aiming to integrate lab-cultured neurons with electronic components for safer neural interactions. The company recently secured $230 million in Series C funding at a $1.5 billion valuation and is advancing its PRIMA device for vision restoration while pursuing broader applications to treat neurological disorders and enhance human capabilities. This innovative approach addresses limitations of traditional metal electrode implants by using biological neurons to reduce long-term brain tissue damage, with initial trials targeted for 2027.

Expert: Community-Based Approach Essential to Reduce Accidents at Railway Crossings

Experts emphasise the urgent need for a community-based approach to address the high rate of accidents at unauthorised railway crossings in Indonesia, where 668 incidents resulting in 327 fatalities occurred between 2024 and 2025, including 38 accidents and 39 deaths so far this year. Key pillars include education, engineering solutions, and law enforcement, with a focus on changing public behaviour through active societal involvement rather than treating communities merely as policy objects. Collaboration among government, railway operators, and the public is seen as crucial to bridge the gap between policies and on-the-ground practices, fostering a safer and more sustainable transport system.

Residents Complain About Royaltrans Booking System, TransJakarta Responds

Passengers have complained about the new booking system for TransJakarta's premium Royaltrans bus service, citing a lack of prior socialisation and delays that made the initial rollout uncomfortable. TransJakarta has apologised for the inconvenience and explained that the system aims to ensure seat availability and a more comfortable travel experience, with bookings possible up to seven days in advance via their app. The company is committed to improving the service through technical enhancements, on-site assistance, and ongoing feedback evaluation to maintain reliable public transportation in Jakarta.

Trial in State-Owned Bank Branch Head Murder Case Continues on 27 April 2026 with Witness Examination Agenda

The Military Court II-08 in Jakarta has scheduled the witness examination hearing for the premeditated murder case of state-owned bank branch head Mohammad Ilham Pradipta on 27 April 2026, following the rejection of the defendant's legal exceptions. Three military personnel—Serka Muhammad Nasir, Kopda Feri Heriyanto, and Serka Frengky Yaru—are accused under various articles of the Criminal Code, including premeditated murder, with additional charges against Nasir for concealing the death. This case highlights the involvement of military defendants in a high-profile crime against a banking official, underscoring coordination challenges between military and civilian authorities in summoning 15 civilian suspects as witnesses.

Countries must work together to strengthen energy resilience amid Middle East disruptions: PM Wong

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has urged countries to collaborate in building energy resilience in response to Middle East conflicts and potential Strait of Hormuz disruptions, highlighting Asia's vulnerability due to heavy reliance on imported energy. At the AZEC Plus summit, he welcomed Japan's US$10 billion assistance package to support Asian nations in procuring energy resources and bolstering stockpiles, equivalent to a year's worth of ASEAN crude oil imports. Wong advocated upgrading AZEC to AZEC 2.0, integrating energy security with decarbonisation efforts, including initiatives like the ASEAN power grid, to create cleaner, more secure regional energy systems.

List of 11 DKI Provincial Officials Inaugurated by Pramono, Syafrin Liputo Becomes South Jakarta Mayor

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung inaugurated 11 high-ranking officials in the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government to fill key positions and prevent vacancies or temporary acting roles. The appointments, based on recommendations from the National Civil Service Agency, Jakarta DPRD's fit and proper test, and gubernatorial decrees, take effect at staggered dates starting from the inauguration day to avoid short-term disruptions. This move ensures continuity in governance, with selections made through discussions among the governor, deputy governor, and regional secretary using the civil servant talent management system.

Pertamina EP Secures 15 Awards at The Green World Awards 2026

PT Pertamina EP, a subsidiary of Indonesia's state-owned energy firm, has won 15 international accolades at The Green World Awards 2026 for its outstanding social responsibility and environmental programmes, surpassing dozens of multinational companies. The awards, presented in Cardiff, Wales, include 10 Global Gold, 4 Global Silver, and 1 Commended category, recognising initiatives in operational areas such as Tambun Field, Subang, and Jatibarang. This achievement underscores Pertamina EP's commitment to integrating sustainability into its operations, enhancing its contributions to sustainable development in Indonesia and globally.

Tangerang Students Create AI-Based Nutrition Detection Device for MBG Programme

Students and university students from Tangerang Regency, Banten, have launched an AI-powered innovation called Si Amanzi to enhance food safety in the government's Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Programme, responding to recent mass poisoning incidents. The device automates checks on food containers using UV sterilisation, AI cameras for nutritional analysis, and sensors for odour and humidity to detect unsafe elements like ammonia and methane, achieving about 70% accuracy in minimising poisoning risks. Local government officials praised the technology competition as a platform for community-driven innovations and expressed hopes for mass production with support from large companies.

MPR Deputy Chairman and UAE Ambassador Meet to Discuss Renewable Energy Cooperation

Wakil Ketua MPR RI Eddy Soeparno met with UAE Ambassador to Indonesia H.E. Abdulla Salem AlDhaheri to discuss expanding bilateral cooperation in renewable energy, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations. The talks highlighted UAE's commitment through Masdar's management of the floating solar panel project in Cirata, West Java, which is set to become the world's largest, supporting President Prabowo Subianto's 100 GW solar panel programme. Eddy reaffirmed MPR's push for accelerating energy transition via key bills like the Oil and Gas Bill, EBET Bill, and Climate Change Management Bill, while the ambassador expressed gratitude for Indonesia's support of UAE investments.

Boy Thohir's Listed Company Plans to Divest Coal Mine in Australia - Indo Premier Sekuritas

PT Adaro Andalan Indonesia Tbk, controlled by Garibaldi Thohir (Boy Thohir), intends to sell approximately 48% of its stake in Australia's Kestrel Coal Group Pty Ltd for an upfront payment of US$1.85 billion, with potential additional payments of up to US$550 million over five years. This divestment, acquired in 2018 to boost overseas coal production, supports the company's business and investment strategy without material impact on operations, legal standing, or finances. The move highlights strategic portfolio adjustments in the mining sector amid global shifts in energy markets.

Peace Agreement Withdrawn, Sudaji Village Head Faces Renewed Detention Threat

The complainant in a fraud and embezzlement case against Sudaji Village Head I Made Ngurah Fajar Kurniawan has withdrawn the peace agreement that previously led to the suspension of his detention, citing a lack of good faith in fulfilling the repayment obligations. Initially negotiated down to Rp 200 million from Rp 295 million, only Rp 100 million was paid, with the remainder unfulfilled despite promises, prompting the complainant to seek resumption of legal proceedings and revocation of the detention suspension. This development highlights challenges in restorative justice processes within Indonesia's legal system, particularly involving local officials.

Accompanied by Hotman Paris, Jambi Rape Victim Reports Three Policemen Who Received Only Ethical Sanctions

A victim of an alleged rape in Jambi, supported by lawyer Hotman Paris, plans to report three police officers to national police headquarters for their suspected involvement in the incident, despite them only facing ethical sanctions. The officers, Briptu VI, Bripda MIS, and Bripda HAM, were present at the scene and assisted the main perpetrators, yet their status in the criminal case remains unclear. This action seeks to clarify their roles and ensure full criminal accountability, highlighting potential facilitation of the crime which could lead to severe penalties.

Achievements of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Business Identification Numbers - ANTARA News West Java Photo

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Roeslani has announced that from 2021 to April 2026, the risk-based business licensing system has issued 15.8 million Business Identification Numbers (NIBs), with 96.9% belonging to micro enterprises. This milestone highlights the government's efforts to simplify business registration for MSMEs, fostering a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. The initiative, supported by mobile public service units in regions like Indramayu, West Java, aims to enhance access to formal business opportunities across the nation.

Perbanas says bank-P2P lending collaboration to drive credit growth

The National Banking Association (Perbanas) highlights that collaborations between banks and peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platforms can expand financing access, particularly for underserved micro and ultramicro segments, by leveraging the strengths of both sectors to boost credit growth efficiently. Despite Indonesia's credit-to-GDP ratio lagging at 36.4% compared to regional averages, such partnerships offer opportunities for portfolio diversification and risk sharing, provided clear standards on governance, transparency, and risk management are established. This model, including joint financing and ecosystem lending, could accelerate financial inclusion while maintaining banking asset quality, with outstanding credit through P2P channels rising to 1.30% of total bank credit by April 2025.

Confectionery Entrepreneurs Begin to Hold Back on Purchasing Raw Materials, Here's Why

Indonesian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the confectionery sector are facing intensified production cost pressures due to a nearly 100% surge in plastic raw material prices amid global volatility. Business owners are adopting a cautious approach by purchasing only as needed to manage cash flow, while production continues as long as market demand persists. The primary concern now shifts to potential supply disruptions, highlighting the delicate balance between price hikes and material availability for sustaining operations.

Vice President discusses improving madrasah teachers' welfare with PGM

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka met with the Madrasah Teachers' Association (PGM) to discuss enhancing the welfare and capacity of madrasah teachers through technology integration. The meeting addressed strategic issues such as technology-based training, regulatory challenges for welfare and employment status, and the need for equitable access to AI and robotics training across Indonesia. The Vice President signalled support for these initiatives, including provincial-level implementations, underscoring the government's commitment to strengthening religious education personnel.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Reveals Content of Prabowo-Macron Discussion: Focus on Energy-Economic Investment

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held a bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on 14 April 2026, as part of a two-day state visit to Russia and France. The over two-hour discussion centred on enhancing strategic cooperation in key sectors including energy, education, digital communications, and long-term economic investments. This engagement, built on the leaders' established personal rapport, aims to strengthen Indonesia-France ties amid evolving global geopolitical and economic dynamics.

Indonesia's Ministry of Youth and Sports Ranks Among Top 5 Best-Performing Ministries

The Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) has been ranked fifth among Indonesia's top 10 best-performing ministries in a national public opinion survey conducted by Cyrus Network in April 2026, alongside ministries such as Finance, Health, and Agriculture. This achievement highlights public appreciation for Kemenpora's programmes in youth empowerment and national sports achievements, motivating further improvements under Minister Erick Thohir's leadership. The ranking underscores the ministry's efforts in governance transformation, sports industry development, and fostering a patriotic younger generation to enhance Indonesia's global competitiveness.

Indonesia-UAE boost renewable energy cooperation as ties mark 50 years

Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates are enhancing their bilateral ties, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations, by strengthening cooperation in renewable energy development. The UAE, through its company Masdar, is actively involved in expanding the Cirata Floating Solar Power Plant in West Java, the world's largest of its kind, supporting President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious 100-gigawatt solar power programme to accelerate Indonesia's energy transition. Indonesian legislators have pledged parliamentary support for relevant bills on oil, gas, new renewable energy, and climate change mitigation to facilitate these initiatives.

Reported by JK on Jokowi's Diploma, Rismon Claims to Be a Victim of AI

Jusuf Kalla (JK), former Vice President of Indonesia, has filed a police report against Rismon Sianipar for allegedly spreading false information claiming that JK funded investigations into President Joko Widodo's (Jokowi) diploma authenticity. Rismon denies the accusations, asserting that the incriminating video is an AI-generated fabrication based on his own YouTube content, and urges police to conduct a digital forensic investigation. JK dismisses Rismon's defence as irrelevant, emphasising that it fails to refute the core allegation of defamation, highlighting ongoing tensions over misinformation in Indonesian politics.

KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo Reported to Supervisory Board

Faizal Assegaf, the President Director of PT Sinkos Multimedia Mandiri, has filed a complaint against KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo to the KPK's Supervisory Board, alleging that Prasetyo used KPK facilities to spread inaccurate information and false claims regarding Assegaf's examination in a corruption probe. The complaint focuses on Prasetyo's statements about an alleged seizure of goods from Assegaf's company, which Assegaf denies. This development occurs amid an ongoing KPK investigation into bribery and gratifications in the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, involving multiple suspects and a significant cash seizure linked to excise duties.

Fallout from Pro-Palestine Statement, DJ Haram Faces Ban from Entering the UK

A UK Conservative MP has called for American DJ and producer Zubeyda Muzeyyen, known as DJ Haram, to be barred from entering Britain following her pro-Palestine remarks during a performance at the Sydney Biennale last month. The DJ expressed support for Palestinians and criticised civilian casualties in Palestine and Lebanon, while denouncing what she called "artwashing genocide" and chanting slogans like "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free." This has sparked an Australian police investigation and raised concerns in the UK over potential antisemitism and promotion of terrorism, potentially derailing her planned performances there.

Social Minister: People's School Libraries to be Accessible 24 Hours

Indonesia's Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf has announced that permanent People's School buildings will feature modern libraries accessible 24 hours a day to the general public and students from other schools, promoting literacy and positive activities as an alternative to screen time. The libraries will be prominently placed at the front of school premises, with construction handled by the Ministry of Public Works to ensure quality, and book distributions already underway by the National Library. This initiative aims to encourage recreational visits to libraries, mirroring global trends, and adapt designs for urban areas like vertical structures in Makassar.

Legislator Proposes Government Funds BPJS for All Citizens, Mentions Electric Trail Bikes

Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission IX, Charles Honoris, has proposed that the government fully fund BPJS health insurance premiums for all 284.6 million Indonesians, estimating an annual cost of Rp113 trillion, which he argues is affordable given the state's capacity. He highlighted the issue of 58.32 million inactive PBI participants and suggested excluding those covered by companies or the state, leaving 225.94 million to be covered. Charles criticised the government's spending on less essential programmes, such as the National Nutrition Agency's purchase of electric trail bikes, urging prioritisation of public health funding.

To PMJ, Rismon Claims Finalisation of SP3 Process in Alleged Fake Diploma Case

Rismon Sianipar's legal team has announced the finalisation of the SP3 order, effectively halting the investigation into allegations of a fake diploma against former Indonesian President Joko Widodo through a restorative justice process. Speaking outside the Metro Jaya Police headquarters, lawyer Jahmada Girsang confirmed that all proceedings are complete, though he refrained from disclosing detailed documents out of respect for police leadership. This development follows similar resolutions for other suspects in the case, marking a significant closure amid ongoing police scrutiny of the broader allegations involving eight individuals, including Roy Suryo.

Hajj Without Visa to Face Rp456 Million Fine Plus 10-Year Blacklist

The Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah has warned Indonesian citizens against attempting to perform Hajj without an official visa, citing severe penalties imposed by Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior starting 18 April. Violators face fines up to SR100,000 (approximately Rp456.9 million), deportation, and a 10-year entry ban, with additional penalties for facilitators and vehicle seizures possible. Indonesian Hajj and Umrah Minister M. Irfan Yusuf echoed the warning, noting stricter enforcement this year following last year's detentions of around 1,000 individuals using non-Hajj visas.

KIP Kuliah 2026 Schedule: Check the Important Dates!

The KIP Kuliah 2026 programme, aimed at providing financial assistance to underprivileged students pursuing higher education in Indonesia, opened registrations in February and will close at the end of October 2026. Key dates include university admission processes via SNBP and UTBK-SNBT pathways, with KIP-K account registration running from 3 February to 31 October 2026, followed by university-level selections. Eligibility prioritises students from low-income families verified through national databases or supporting documents, underscoring the government's commitment to accessible education for economically vulnerable youth.

KKP Seizes Three Foreign Vessels, Averts Potential Loss of Rp20.2 Billion

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has intercepted three Malaysian-flagged fishing vessels suspected of illegal fishing in the Malacca Strait, preventing an estimated state loss of Rp20.2 billion. The operation, conducted on 10-11 April 2026 using patrol ships Barracuda 01 and Hiu 01, targeted vessels employing banned trawl nets in Indonesian waters. This action underscores KKP's intensified efforts to combat illegal fishing, with 39 vessels processed so far this year, safeguarding Rp69.9 billion in potential losses.

Data on Indonesian Citizens' Social Assistance in DTSEN Updated Six Times, Here Are the Results

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) has updated the National Single Social and Economic Data (DTSEN) six times from February 2025 to April 2026, achieving 90% completion based on prior datasets. The latest update covers 95.3 million families and 289.3 million individuals, with a 17.51% update rate, and includes refinements for deceased persons, duplicate IDs, and errors in social assistance recipients. Notably, BPS identified 11,014 inclusion errors among beneficiaries from higher income deciles, representing just 0.06% of the 18.15 million families receiving first-quarter aid, enhancing the accuracy of welfare distribution.

Residents Complain About Royaltrans Booking System, Passengers Queue Outside Despite Empty Buses

Passengers of Transjakarta's Royaltrans service have voiced strong complaints about the new seat booking system implemented on its first day, leading to long queues at stops while buses depart with empty seats. Social media posts highlight inadequate promotion of the app-based reservation process, information discrepancies, and its unsuitability for elderly users, rendering the service ineffective. Transjakarta has apologised for the inconvenience, stating the system aims to ensure seating certainty and comfort but requires initial adjustments.

Tempe Producers in South Jakarta Cry Out Over Soaring Soybean Prices: Forced to Raise Selling Prices

Tempe producers in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, are grappling with sharply rising costs of imported soybeans from the US, now at Rp 1,120,000, alongside increases in plastic packaging to Rp 55,000 per kg and cooking oil, compelling them to hike tempe prices from Rp 65,000 to Rp 70,000–75,000 per kg. This has led to customer complaints and declining sales, prompting calls for the government to stabilise these essential input prices and encourage local soybean farming to reduce import dependency. The situation underscores the vulnerability of Indonesia's small-scale food producers to global commodity fluctuations and supply chain disruptions.

Palm Oil Surface Water Tax Feared to Backfire on B50 Biodiesel

An analyst has warned that the proposed surface water tax on palm oil plantations, set at Rp 1,700 per palm trunk in regions like Riau, West Sumatra, and Bengkulu, could undermine Indonesia's B50 biodiesel programme launching in July, which aims to increase the palm oil blend in diesel to 50% and save Rp 48 trillion in fuel subsidies. The tax is criticised for lacking legal basis, as oil palms absorb rainwater naturally without extracting surface water, potentially adding financial burdens and deterring investors from the industry. This development highlights tensions between regional revenue goals and national energy policies in the world's largest palm oil producer.

Malaysia's Energy Subsidies Swell in April 2026, Reaching Rp 30 Trillion

Global energy price surges driven by the Iran war and Middle East conflicts are straining Southeast Asian budgets, with Malaysia facing a sharp rise in fuel subsidies. In April 2026, Malaysia's government is projected to spend around 7 billion ringgit (approximately Rp 30 trillion) on fuel subsidies, up from 700 million ringgit monthly before the escalation. This rapid fiscal pressure highlights the vulnerability of subsidy-dependent nations to geopolitical disruptions in key oil routes like the Strait of Hormuz.

BTN Records Net Profit of Rp1.1 Trillion in Q1 2026, Up 22.6%

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) achieved a 22.6% year-on-year increase in net profit to Rp1.1 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, driven by government-backed transformations and innovations in the national housing finance sector. The bank has disbursed KPR loans for 6 million units worth Rp530 trillion since 1976, supporting housing for 24 million people and highlighting the sector's role in job creation for 12.5 million workers and economic contributions through local materials and taxes. Total credit disbursement rose 10.3% to Rp400.63 trillion, with subsidized KPR at Rp193.55 trillion (up 7.7%) and non-subsidized at Rp112.56 trillion (up 5.4%), underscoring BTN's strategic partnership with the government to improve living standards.

Creative! Dlingo Bantul Residents Transform Critical Land into Essential Oil Producer

Residents of Pedukuhan Kebosungu 1 in Dlingo, Bantul, have innovatively converted marginal, rocky land unsuitable for traditional crops into a productive site for essential oil-producing plants like red citronella and eucalyptus since 2017. This initiative, now spanning seven hectares and involving 472 farmers, yields 50-60 litres of essential oil monthly, processed into products such as soaps, aromatherapy candles, and liniments, with the local government providing support for expansion. Despite challenges in accessing international markets like India, the community is leveraging e-commerce to broaden sales, highlighting the oils' health benefits from stress relief to treating venomous bites.

Trial of Electric AKAP Bus from Jakarta to Yogyakarta: Results and Challenges

A trial run of an electric AKAP bus service from Jakarta to Yogyakarta by PO Sumber Alam has demonstrated promising operational results, with no passenger complaints and satisfactory travel times, aligning with the government's push for vehicle electrification. However, significant challenges persist, including insufficient charging infrastructure that limits route expansion and high initial investment costs that deter private businesses. Anthony Steven Hambali, the company's owner, expressed optimism about the potential but emphasised the need for government support to facilitate broader adoption.

Military Prosecutor Ordered to Present 17 Witnesses in Continued Trial of Bank Branch Head Case

The Military Court II-08 in Jakarta has ordered the Military Prosecutor to properly summon and present 17 witnesses for the next hearing on 27 April 2026 in the ongoing trial concerning the alleged kidnapping and murder of a bank branch head. The presiding judge emphasised the need for legal compliance in summoning witnesses, many of whom are currently defendants in civilian courts, and urged acceleration of proceedings due to the impending expiry of the defendants' detention period on 7 June 2026. Previously, the court rejected all objections from the defendants and their legal team, allowing the trial to proceed to the evidentiary stage, which is crucial for establishing the facts of the case.

Andrie Yunus in the Human Rights Struggle Movement

Andrie Yunus, a prominent human rights advocate and lawyer in Indonesia, is recovering from severe burns caused by an acid attack that damaged 20% of his body and severely impaired his right eye, with potential for permanent blindness. Known for his work supporting victims of injustice, including cases of wrongful arrests and defamation, Yunus has been mentored and supported communities through legal aid and activism since his university days at Sekolah Tinggi Hukum Jentera. The incident, described as an attempted murder, has sparked calls for justice and highlights the risks faced by human rights defenders in Indonesia.

Petitioners for 30 Percent Women's Quota Sued at Constitutional Court: Political Parties Could Be Directly Disqualified

A group of women petitioners has challenged Article 245 of the Election Law at the Constitutional Court, arguing that the current 30 percent minimum quota for female representation in legislative candidates lacks effective sanctions, allowing parties to submit lists without meeting the requirement. They cite examples of electoral districts where parties fielded insufficient female candidates, yet their submissions were accepted, and urge the court to interpret the law to impose clear consequences like disqualification. The hearing highlighted the sociological and juridical importance of gender equality in representation, with the court requiring petitioners to detail constitutional inconsistencies by late April 2026.

Government Opens 35,476 PKWT Positions for Red and White Village Cooperatives, Here Are the Requirements

The Indonesian government, through the National Selection Committee for Human Resources of the Best Quick Results Programme (SDMPHTC), has launched recruitment for 35,476 positions to manage Red and White Village/Kelurahan Cooperatives (KDKMP) and Red and White Fishery Villages. Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan announced that 30,000 positions are for KDKMP managers under a fixed-term employment contract (PKWT) with Agrinas Pangan Nusantara, a state-owned enterprise, while 5,476 are for fishery village managers under PT Agrinas Jaladri Nusantara, targeting D3/D4/S1 graduates under 35 years old with a minimum GPA of 2.75. The free and transparent process, coordinated by the State-Owned Enterprises Executive Agency (BP BUMN), runs from 15 to 24 April 2026 via phtc.panselnas.go.id, aiming to support the establishment of 30,000–40,000 cooperatives by June or July to bolster rural and fishery economies.

Human development must be a goal of AI utilisation in business

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Communication and Digitalisation, Nezar Patria, has emphasised that the utilisation of artificial intelligence (AI) in business should prioritise human development alongside technological advancement to achieve true productivity gains, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum. He cited studies showing significant increases in business productivity and efficiency from AI adoption, particularly in financial processes, but warned that challenges like poor leadership, organisational culture, pilot project pitfalls, and data governance could hinder success. The government is preparing a National AI Roadmap and ethics guidelines to be enacted as presidential regulations within the next 1-2 months, ensuring ethical, safe, and inclusive AI implementation.

Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Handles TPPO Victims from West Java and Collaborates for Prevention

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA) is providing protection and support to victims of suspected human trafficking (TPPO) from West Java, who were deceived via social media job offers and exploited in Papua. The victims, currently receiving psychological care at Rumah Sapa, highlight vulnerabilities due to economic hardship and digital illiteracy, prompting calls for cross-sector collaboration to enforce laws, deter perpetrators, and prevent future cases. The ministry urges the public to report suspicions via Sapa 129 hotline to break the trafficking chain.

INTP to Conduct Share Buyback Up to Rp 750 Billion

PT Indocement Tunggal Prakarsa Tbk (INTP) plans to repurchase its shares worth up to Rp 750 billion to address the undervaluation of its stock and enhance investor confidence. The buyback, funded entirely by internal resources, will not exceed 10% of the company's issued capital and is expected to improve market perception without impacting financial obligations. Approval from shareholders is scheduled for 21 May 2026, with the repurchase period running for up to 12 months thereafter.

MPR Chairman affirms Indonesia remains neutral amid US-Iran conflict

The Chairman of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly, Ahmad Muzani, has reiterated that Indonesia will not take sides in the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, adhering to its policy of active non-alignment. He emphasised the importance of pursuing peaceful solutions through diplomacy, a stance echoed by President Prabowo Subianto in communications with Arab leaders, including Saudi Arabia. Muzani praised Saudi Arabia's restraint and urged continued diplomatic efforts to foster peace in the Middle East, aligning with Indonesia's constitutional mandate for a peaceful culture.

16 Students Face Potential Academic Sanctions Following Lewd Chat Group at FHUI

Universitas Indonesia is investigating allegations of sexual harassment in a student chat group at the Faculty of Law, with 16 students currently under scrutiny and facing possible academic sanctions. The process, led by the university's Task Force for Prevention and Handling of Violence, adheres to national regulations and prioritises victim protection, evidence verification, and fairness. This case highlights ongoing efforts to address sexual violence in academic environments through formal procedures and preventive measures.