Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 April 2026

Showing 701-750 of 1,595 articles

Ministry of Law emphasises that legal reform must not be limited to paper policies alone

Indonesia's Ministry of Law has stressed that legal reform must extend beyond mere policy documents to deliver tangible benefits directly felt by the public, serving as a key priority in national development. The Head of the National Law Development Agency highlighted the need for improved regulations that are adaptive and principled, supporting government performance and enhancing public services while linking legal reform inseparably to bureaucratic reform. Through the Legal Reform Index (IRH), institutions are urged to shift from administrative compliance to substantive improvements in regulatory governance, ensuring accountability and real progress in institutional credibility and public trust.

Russian Ambassador visits ANTARA, discusses information cooperation

The Russian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sergei Tolchenov, visited ANTARA's Heritage Center in Jakarta to strengthen cooperation in information and news dissemination between the two nations. Discussions focused on enhancing communication, cultural exchanges, and participation in international forums on global security, while highlighting the strong people-to-people ties and opportunities in tourism and media. This visit underscores the growing bilateral relations between Indonesia and Russia, with potential collaborations involving Russian media outlets like Sputnik and RIA Novosti.

KAI to Install 5G WiFi on Long-Distance Trains Starting June 2026

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has partnered with SURGE and Huawei to introduce free high-speed 5G internet on long-distance trains, aiming to enhance passenger connectivity and entertainment during journeys, with rollout targeted for the June-July 2026 school holiday period. The initiative addresses current complaints about poor in-train internet reliant on outdated 2G networks, integrating external base stations with internal WiFi systems without increasing ticket prices. This direct leap to 5G technology positions Indonesia to align with advanced global rail standards, improving productivity and service quality for commuters.

Faizal Assegaf Reports KPK Spokesperson to Oversight Board

Faizal Assegaf, Director of PT Sinkos Multimedia Mandiri, has filed a complaint against KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo with the KPK's Oversight Board, alleging that Budi used official facilities to spread inaccurate opinions and falsehoods regarding Assegaf's examination in a corruption probe involving the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. The complaint stems from statements claiming KPK had seized items from Assegaf, which he denies as slander. This development follows a series of arrests and investigations by KPK into bribery and gratifications related to counterfeit imports and excise duties, highlighting tensions between the anti-corruption body and those under scrutiny.

On Senen Sidewalk, Black Stone and Acid Become the "Judges" of Gold Value

In the shaded sidewalks of Jalan Senen III, Central Jakarta, informal gold trading persists using traditional methods like black testing stones and nitric acid to authenticate and appraise jewellery, contrasting with modern digital investments. Traders such as Poman and Limbong meticulously weigh items, test purity through colour reactions, and price based on daily market updates, highlighting a vibrant grassroots economy where authenticity determines value. This scene underscores the enduring role of informal markets in Indonesia's gold sector amid evolving financial landscapes.

Foreign Ministry Writes to Defence Ministry Regarding US Request for Unrestricted Military Aircraft Flights Over Indonesia

The Indonesian Foreign Ministry has sent a letter to the Defence Ministry concerning a US request for overflight clearance allowing American military aircraft unrestricted passage through Indonesian airspace, emphasising that any such arrangement must uphold national sovereignty and the country's active and independent foreign policy principles. Officials from both ministries have clarified that the proposal remains in the early stages of internal discussion and does not constitute a final policy decision. This development underscores Indonesia's cautious approach to defence cooperation with the US, ensuring all agreements prioritise national interests and territorial integrity.

Beware of IKD Activation Scams, Don't Click Links Indiscriminately!

The Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil) in Jakarta has warned residents about scams impersonating officials to activate Digital Population Identity (IKD) via SMS or WhatsApp, emphasising that such activations occur only in person at official service counters and are free of charge. Scammers often send unofficial links or offer paid assistance, but the official IKD app is available solely through PlayStore or AppStore. Victims are advised to report incidents online via patrolisiber.id or directly to Polda Metro Jaya's cyber unit, underscoring the importance of legal compliance with population administration laws to prevent fraud.

Furoda Hajj Promotions Still Prevalent, Ministry Warns: Saudi No Longer Issues Them, Pilgrims Should Not Be Deceived

Promotions for queue-free Hajj travel using mujamalah and furoda visas are surging ahead of the 2026 season, with social media ads offering packages up to US$29,900 including flights, hotels, and full services, backed by guarantees. However, Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has cautioned the public against these offers, stating that only official quota-based Hajj visas are reliable, as Saudi Arabia no longer issues furoda visas and controls all approvals. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak emphasised the low certainty of such unofficial visas, urging pilgrims to avoid scams to protect their investments and ensure legitimate travel.

Ibas Pushes for Strengthening the State's Role in Governing the National Oil and Gas Sector

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas), Deputy Chairman of the MPR RI and Chairman of the Democratic Party faction, emphasised the critical link between oil and gas management and national resilience amid global uncertainties during a Focus Group Discussion at the DPR RI. He outlined five strategic focuses: boosting national production through aggressive investment, ensuring targeted energy subsidies, strengthening state-owned energy enterprises, building robust national energy reserves, and accelerating the energy transition towards renewables like geothermal, solar, and hydropower. The event featured insights from experts on regulatory reforms, governance improvements, and the need for policy coherence to transform Indonesia into a sovereign energy nation.

Coal Downstreaming for Food Security: Indonesia Prepares 10,000 Tonnes/Year Factory

PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) is developing a factory to process coal into potassium humate, a soil conditioner with a capacity of 10,000 tonnes per year, in collaboration with UPN Veteran Yogyakarta University. This initiative aims to enhance soil fertility and support Indonesia's national food security programme, adding significant value—up to 29 times that of raw coal—to the commodity. The project aligns with the government's Asta Cita agenda, diversifying PTBA's role from energy producer to provider of high-value industrial raw materials for agriculture and beyond.

129 Tonnes of German Cowhide Suspected of FMD Destroyed in Bogor

Authorities in Bogor, West Java, destroyed 129 tonnes of cowhide imported from Germany after laboratory tests confirmed it carried foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and lumpy skin disease (LSD) in five out of twelve containers. This action by the National Quarantine Agency aims to protect Indonesia's livestock sector from devastating outbreaks that previously caused losses of up to Rp 40 trillion from FMD and Rp 10 trillion from LSD. The measure supports President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita programme for food self-sufficiency by preventing disease entry through imports.

Digital Minister: BPJS PANDAWA is a Key Part of Health Transformation

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, has praised the BPJS Kesehatan’s PANDAWA service—now available 24/7 via WhatsApp—as a vital component in the country’s digital transformation of healthcare services. Previously limited to office hours, PANDAWA enables participants to register, add family members to the JKN scheme, and reactivate memberships at any time, reflecting broader shifts in public service delivery driven by enhanced internet connectivity. The government aims to bolster digital infrastructure to improve healthcare access and integration, fostering greater public trust in national health services.

Median Survey: Majority of Public 71.8 Percent Satisfied with Government Performance

A national survey conducted by Media Survei Nasional (Median) across 38 provinces reveals that 71.8 percent of the public is satisfied with the performance of the Prabowo-Gibran government, with key reasons including maintaining stable fuel prices, the free nutritious meal programme, and anti-corruption efforts. The poll, targeting active social media users aged 17-60, highlights public perceptions on contemporary issues such as potential fuel price hikes and the impact of the Gulf War. This strong approval rating underscores the administration's early successes in addressing economic and social priorities.

Private Issuers Dominate Corporate Bond Market in First Quarter of 2026

Private sector issuers with the highest AAA ratings led the corporate bond market in Indonesia during the first quarter of 2026, raising Rp 39.3 trillion, far surpassing state-owned enterprises' Rp 20 trillion issuance. The majority of funds were allocated to working capital needs, amounting to Rp 30.91 trillion, with the multifinance, forestry, pulp and paper, and banking sectors being the most active. This surge, exceeding maturities by Rp 59.35 trillion against Rp 26.88 trillion, was driven by low interest rates and competitive bond funding costs compared to bank financing, highlighting a robust demand for measured-risk investments.

Top three national secretaries general deepen cybersecurity knowledge in South Korea

Three award-winning secretaries general from Indonesian regions—Sri Wahyuni from East Kalimantan, Arry Yuswadi from West Sumatra, and Fenny Apridawati from Sidoarjo—are studying cybersecurity systems in Seoul, South Korea, as recognition for their digital transformation achievements. The programme, a collaboration between ASKOMPSI and global cybersecurity firm LSWare, includes classroom learning and field visits to the Korea Internet and Security Agency (KISA), featuring insights from industry experts. This initiative aims to enhance local leaders' understanding of digital security, promoting safer and more measured electronic governance in Indonesian regions.

IMF Reveals Global Trend: Countries Racing to Increase Defence Spending

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has highlighted a growing global phenomenon of surging defence spending amid escalating geopolitical tensions, with approximately half of the world's countries raising their military budgets over the past five years. This shift in fiscal priorities, including a doubling of global arms sales by top companies and NATO's commitment to elevate defence expenditure to 5% of GDP by 2035, signals a significant recalibration in security landscapes that could have broad economic implications. The IMF's analysis indicates that such spending booms, averaging a 2.7% GDP increase and lasting over two and a half years, are becoming more frequent, particularly in emerging markets.

Presidential Chief of Staff Reveals Cause of MBG Food Poisoning in East Jakarta: Spaghetti Sauce Turns Sour, Meatball Aroma Changes

The Presidential Chief of Staff, Muhammad Qodari, has identified the causes of a food poisoning incident in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme in East Jakarta on 3 April 2026, attributing it to food consumed beyond the safe four-hour limit after packaging, spoilage indicators such as sour spaghetti sauce, altered meatball aroma, and compromised strawberries. Infrastructure shortcomings, including storage temperatures exceeding 20 degrees Celsius, lack of temperature monitoring equipment, substandard chemical storage and wastewater facilities, and inadequate staff lockers, also contributed to the mishap. This revelation underscores the need for enhanced food safety protocols and infrastructure upgrades in government-run nutrition initiatives to prevent future health risks.

Deputy Police Chief Urges Police PR Division to Verify News, Highlights Disinformation on Social Media

Indonesian Deputy Police Chief, Komjen Dedi Prasetyo, has instructed the Police Public Relations Division (Divhumas Polri) to verify information circulating on social media to ensure the public receives accurate and trustworthy news amid the rapid spread of hoaxes and disinformation. Speaking at a technical working meeting in Jakarta, he emphasised the crucial role of the division in combating information disruption using modern technologies like big data and AI to detect, analyse, and respond to issues swiftly. This initiative aims to prevent public unrest, social conflicts, and maintain societal stability by positioning the Police PR as a reliable source of information.

Garuda deploys 1,085 aircraft crew for 2026 Hajj flights

Garuda Indonesia is deploying 1,085 aircraft crew members, including 354 pilots and 731 cabin crew, along with 139 ground staff, to support Hajj flights for 1447 Hijriah starting 21 April 2026, utilising 15 aircraft comprising Garuda's own fleet and leased planes. The operations emphasise safety and service enhancements for elderly pilgrims, who make up about 18% of the roughly 100,000 Indonesian pilgrims, with special facilities like wheelchairs, ambulifts, and dedicated buses. This initiative underscores Garuda's role as the national carrier in facilitating one of Indonesia's largest annual religious migrations, ensuring compliance with Saudi aviation standards and optimal long-haul aircraft maintenance.

With Mekkah Route, Hajj Pilgrims No Longer Need to Queue for Immigration Upon Arrival in Saudi Arabia

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has announced that pilgrims using the "Mekkah Route" service will undergo immigration checks in Indonesia, eliminating queues upon arrival in Saudi Arabia and allowing direct transfer to accommodations. This fast-track initiative has expanded to include the embarkation point in Makassar for this year, with over 65% of pilgrims expected to utilise it, building on last year's 60% usage rate. The measure, coordinated with the Minister of Immigration and Naturalization, aims to streamline the pilgrimage process for the benefit of Indonesian hajj participants.

Vance says Trump is seeking a "grand bargain" with Iran

US Vice President J.D. Vance has stated that President Donald Trump is pursuing a comprehensive agreement with Iran, rather than a limited deal, as part of broader efforts to end the ongoing conflict and ensure Iran forgoes nuclear weapons. Speaking at an event in Georgia, Vance highlighted the current ceasefire holding for nearly a week and Trump's offer to treat Iran as a normal nation economically if it behaves accordingly. This comes amid negotiations aimed at halting US-Israel strikes that have killed over 3,300 people since late February, with Trump expressing optimism for resuming direct talks soon in Pakistan.

Median Survey: MBG Programme Most Favoured, 51.5% of Respondents Find It Beneficial

A Median survey reveals that the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme is the most favoured government initiative, with 27.5% of respondents naming it top of mind and 51.5% deeming it beneficial to society. Conducted via social media with 1,300 participants aged 17-60, the poll highlights MBG's appeal due to its role in child nutrition, job creation, and cost savings for families. Other popular programmes include social assistance (8.1%) and anti-corruption efforts (3.8%), underscoring public priorities in welfare and governance.

Prabowo: Hajj Pilgrims Will Still Depart Unless Banned by Saudi Arabia

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed that the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage will proceed as planned despite tensions in West Asia, prioritising the safety of Indonesian pilgrims unless prohibited by the Saudi government. Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf outlined the schedule, with the first wave departing on 22 April and all pilgrims arriving in the Holy Land by 21 May, culminating in the Arafah peak on 25-26 May. The government's focus on security covers travel, worship, and logistics, with repatriation beginning on 1 June and concluding by 1 July.

Trial Period Ends, Traffic Violators in Kerobokan Kelod to Face Fines

The trial period for traffic engineering in Kerobokan Kelod and parts of Seminyak, North Kuta District, Badung, Bali, has concluded, with the one-way scheme now implemented permanently as of Tuesday (14/4). Authorities will now enforce fines on violators, particularly on Jalan Merta Agung where motorcyclists often contravene the rules by driving against the flow. This measure aims to reduce congestion during peak holiday periods, enhancing traffic safety and order to support quality tourism in Badung.

KPK Oversight Board Examines Complainant Regarding Complaint on Transfer of Former Minister Yaqut's Detention Status

The KPK Oversight Board has examined Marselinus Edwin Hardhian, head of ARUKKI, who filed a complaint alleging ethical violations by KPK leadership over the unannounced transfer of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas to house arrest. Marselinus highlighted inconsistencies in KPK's information and lack of transparency as per the KPK Law, suggesting possible dishonesty in justifications ranging from family requests to investigation strategies. The board has indicated it will soon question KPK leaders, amid public criticism that prompted Yaqut's return to regular detention.

Fed Chairman Candidate Has Assets Worth Rp1.7 Trillion, Here Are the Details

Kevin Warsh, the nominee for Chairman of the US Federal Reserve, has disclosed assets exceeding US$100 million (approximately Rp1.71 trillion), including significant holdings in Juggernaut Fund LP valued over US$50 million and consulting income of US$10.2 million from Stanley Druckenmiller. He has committed to divesting these assets upon confirmation to comply with US government ethics rules, while his wife Jane Lauder holds an estimated net worth of US$1.9 billion from the Estee Lauder family fortune. This financial transparency is a key requirement for advancing his Senate nomination, highlighting potential conflicts of interest in monetary policy leadership.

Not Iran, These 2 Asian Countries Become Victims of Trump's Strait of Hormuz Blockade

The United States' blockade of Iran's shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, initiated under President Trump, is severely impacting major Asian energy importers India and China, disrupting global oil supplies and exacerbating economic pressures. India faces acute supply shortages, losing key sources from Iran and Russia, which could derail its economic growth projections amid rising inflation and weakened private sector activity. China has strongly condemned the move as irresponsible, warning of regional instability, while global oil prices fluctuate amid diplomatic hopes but remain vulnerable to further escalation.

New Mineral Benchmark Price Formula Takes Effect Today, ESDM Reveals the Calculation

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has implemented a new formula for determining the Mineral Benchmark Price (HPM) starting today, aiming to optimise state revenues and ensure fairness for all stakeholders through adaptive and transparent regulations. Key changes include adjustments to the nickel ore formula by incorporating corrective factors and associated minerals like iron, cobalt, and chrome; reductions in reactive-silica factors for bauxite ore; and a shift in pricing units from dry to wet metric tons for various commodities including nickel, bauxite, and others. This update responds to volatile global market dynamics, with mining companies urged to coordinate closely with surveyors to comply with the new requirements outlined in Ministerial Decree No. 144 of 2026.

Foreign Ministry Acknowledges Reminding Defence Ministry on US Overflight Clearance Request

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has confirmed reminding the Defence Ministry to exercise caution regarding a US proposal for military overflight access to Indonesian airspace, emphasising that all cooperation must uphold full national sovereignty. The spokesperson clarified that the recently signed defence agreement with the US does not include overflight provisions, which remain under careful internal review to align with Indonesia's active and independent foreign policy principles. This assurance aims to mitigate any geopolitical concerns in Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region while ensuring tangible benefits for Indonesia.

Rising Cases of Sexual Violence on Campuses Require Government Policy Intervention

Recent incidents of sexual violence at Indonesian universities, including cases at Universitas Budi Luhur, Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa, and allegations involving 16 students at Universitas Indonesia's Faculty of Law, have prompted calls for national-level government action. DPR Commission X member Habib Syarief Muhammad urged the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology to implement comprehensive policies, safe reporting mechanisms, and stronger regulations to prevent such occurrences and ensure campuses remain safe spaces. Minister Brian Yuliarto echoed this stance, declaring zero tolerance for any form of violence in higher education institutions.

BRIN Head Eyes New Innovations to Tackle Water and Energy Crises

The Head of Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Arif Satria, has highlighted cutting-edge technologies to address impending water and energy crises. Speaking at an open session for the Research Professor Inauguration Council in Jakarta, he referenced global droughts and the potential of innovations like Metal Organic Frameworks, co-discovered by Nobel laureate Omar Yaghi and Susumu Kitagawa, to enhance gas storage efficiency. BRIN is collaborating with Kyoto University to establish a joint laboratory in Serpong, aiming to extend household LPG usage and mitigate energy shortages through advanced research.

Why Gold Prices Do Not Always Rise During Conflicts

The CEO of PT Bursa Berjangka Jakarta (JFX), Yazid Kanca Surya, explains that gold prices do not always increase amid global conflicts due to the influence of energy sector dynamics, where countries sell gold reserves to secure liquidity for energy supplies, countering its safe-haven status. JFX is enhancing its trading ecosystem by introducing flexible micro and nano contracts for commodities like gold, silver, copper, and energy, as well as developing digital gold trading to improve accessibility and security for retail investors. The exchange dominates key markets, including over 95% of Indonesia's tin export trade valued at US$1.7 billion in 2025, and offers global securities products through its PALN scheme, reflecting robust growth in transaction volumes.

Bank and P2P Lending Collaboration Key to Expanding Credit to Micro Segments

Indonesian national banks are encouraged to broaden financing access by partnering with peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platforms, particularly for underserved micro and ultramicro segments, while adhering to strong governance and risk management standards. According to Perbanas' Head of Product Development, Michellina Laksmi Triwardhany, such collaborations enable banks to reach new customers more efficiently, diversify portfolios, and share risks without building extensive infrastructure. With Indonesia's credit-to-GDP ratio at 36.4% in 2024-2025—far below the 74.46% average for upper-middle-income countries in East Asia and the Pacific—this partnership model highlights significant potential for expanding formal financing to underbanked small businesses.

Indramayu Teen Promised Job But Forced into Lewd Live Streams, Recruiter is a Juvenile

Police in Indramayu have arrested two suspects, a 17-year-old and a 21-year-old, for luring an underage girl with false job promises in Jakarta, only to force her into performing sensual and explicit acts on a live streaming app to earn viewer tips. The victim, enticed by offers of Rp 2-3 million daily wages, received only about Rp 500,000 depending on audience donations, highlighting the dangers of online exploitation and the need for stronger protections against child trafficking in digital spaces. This case underscores ongoing issues with underage involvement in pornography and the role of law enforcement in combating such predatory schemes.

Ditpolairud Polda Metro Provides Wheelchair to Coastal Resident in Muara Angke

The Directorate of Water and Air Police (Ditpolairud) of Polda Metro Jaya has conducted a health community service programme, distributing a wheelchair to a stroke-afflicted resident in Muara Angke, North Jakarta. The aid, presented to 59-year-old Ibu Wahsiah at her home, aims to enhance her mobility and ease daily activities, reflecting the Indonesian National Police's commitment to humanitarian services. Officials emphasise that such initiatives will continue to support coastal communities, fostering a presence that prioritises public welfare and social care.

Deputy Minister of Public Works inaugurates community-based flood detection equipment

Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti has inaugurated a community-based early warning system for floods in Bojongkulur, Bogor Regency, featuring Automatic Water Level Recorders and rain gauges donated by AIM Analytics Malaysia. The initiative aims to enhance community preparedness and data-driven flood alerts, integrated with the Ciliwung Cisadane River Basin Authority, while emphasising riverbank management and green spaces to mitigate risks. The government is planning eight retention ponds by 2028, with JICA aid expected to commence tendering in 2027, underscoring broader efforts to combat flooding in vulnerable areas.

National Police Criminal Investigation Unit Raids Illegal Whip Pink Factory in Jakarta with Billions in Turnover

The Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Unit has dismantled an illegal production network for Nitrous Oxide (N2O) gas branded Whip Pink, operating without BPOM permits in Jakarta. Authorities seized thousands of gas canisters, production equipment, and arrested nine workers, uncovering a distribution network across 16 warehouses in 10 major cities that generated Rp21.3 billion in revenue over five months. This raid highlights the enforcement challenges against unregulated substances with significant illicit economic impact.

Snapshot of Discussions Between Purbaya, BI Governor, and DPR with IMF Chief in America

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva praised Indonesia as a "bright spot" in the global economy during meetings in the US, highlighting its strong fundamentals, credible policies, and resilience amid global uncertainties. The discussions involved Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo, Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, and representatives from the House of Representatives' Commission XI, emphasising the synergy between fiscal and monetary policies, fiscal discipline, and adaptive responses to external pressures. Bank Indonesia continued its outreach to global investors at the IMF Spring Meetings to affirm that the country's economy remains on a solid path, supported by robust domestic demand and balanced growth.

OJK Emphasises that SLIK Relaxation is Not to Avoid NPL Records in Banking

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has clarified that the relaxation of the Financial Information Services System (SLIK) policy, which excludes loan arrears below Rp1 million from records, is intended to streamline the housing loan (KPR) process, particularly for the government's three million homes programme, rather than to evade non-performing loan (NPL) notations. OJK officials noted that such small credits are typically minor fees or fines and remain internally recorded by lenders, with the measure supporting subsidised housing access for those with minor credit issues. Nationally, banking NPL ratios improved to 2.17% in February 2026 from 2.22% the previous year, while Bali's rate dropped to 2.60% in January 2026 from 3.14%.

ChatGPT Widely Used for Learning, Indonesia Ranks Among the Top

Indonesia ranks among the top five countries globally for per capita usage of ChatGPT in education, as highlighted by OpenAI's Head of Education for Asia Pacific, Raghav Gupta, during a media event in Jakarta. With 70% of users aged 18-34, the platform is increasingly serving as a learning companion for students and young professionals, contributing to its worldwide weekly active users exceeding 900 million. Gupta emphasised the need for responsible AI use in education to enhance learning outcomes while warning against shortcuts that could undermine critical thinking, underscoring the importance of AI literacy among educators and students.

Industry Minister confident Indonesian textile sector entering 'sunrise' phase

Indonesia's Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, has expressed optimism about the textile and textile products (TPT) sector, describing it as entering a 'sunrise' phase amid global challenges, supported by robust growth figures and government initiatives to enhance competitiveness. The sector recorded a 3.55% year-on-year growth in 2025, with exports reaching $12.08 billion and a surplus of $3.45 billion, while attracting Rp20.23 trillion in investments and employing nearly 4 million workers. Despite facing issues like rising raw material costs and supply chain disruptions, the government is committed to bolstering the industry through market expansion, fiscal incentives, and adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies to ensure sustainability and high-value production.

Four TNI Soldiers Suspected in Acid Attack on KontraS Activist to Be Tried Soon

The Military Prosecutor's Office II-07 Jakarta has confirmed the transfer of the case file involving four TNI soldiers accused of throwing acid on KontraS deputy coordinator Andrie Yunus to the Military Court II-08 Jakarta on 16 April 2026, marking the start of their trial process. The suspects, identified as Captain NDP, Lieutenant SL, Lieutenant BHW, and Sergeant ES from the TNI's Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS), were handed over after completing the investigation by the TNI's Military Police Centre. The attack left Yunus with severe burns covering 20% of his body and eye injuries, leading to the resignation of BAIS TNI head Yudi Abrimantyo amid public scrutiny, highlighting accountability issues in military operations.

Hormuz Strait Crisis Pressures Fuel Prices, IESR Urges Acceleration of Energy Transition

The global energy crisis triggered by tensions in the Hormuz Strait is putting pressure on fuel prices, prompting the Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) to call for Indonesia to accelerate its energy transition away from fossil fuels. CEO Fabby Tumiwa warns that reliance on imported oil exposes the national economy to geopolitical risks and fiscal burdens, advocating for electrification of transportation using abundant domestic renewable energy sources. Achieving government targets for 2 million electric cars and 13 million electric motorcycles by 2030 could reduce fuel consumption by 26.5 million barrels annually and cut imports by 16 million barrels, supported by regulatory reforms, simplified investment permits, and grid modernisation.

Strong Signals of Growth for Tower Issuers TOWR, TBIG, and MTEL

Major Indonesian tower companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, including PT Sarana Menara Nusantara Tbk. (TOWR), PT Tower Bersama Infrastructure Tbk. (TBIG), and PT Dayamitra Telekomunikasi Tbk. (MTEL), reported improved performance throughout 2025. TBIG, for instance, achieved revenue of Rp6.9 trillion, marking a slight 0.61% increase from Rp6.86 trillion in 2024. These issuers continue to attract investor interest despite challenges from high interest rates, highlighting resilience in the telecommunications infrastructure sector.

Ahmad Luthfi Pushes for Accelerated Flood Handling in Greater Solo

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi visited flood-affected areas in Karanganyar, coordinating with local officials on immediate and long-term measures, including temporary flood barriers and collaboration with the Bengawan Solo River Basin Authority. The provincial government dispatched aid worth over Rp 81 million to Surakarta, including food, tents, and essentials, to support displaced residents. This response highlights proactive disaster management to mitigate flooding in the Solo Raya region and ensure basic needs are met during recovery.

Civil Coalition Questions Progress on Domestic Workers Protection Bill

A coalition of civil society groups has raised concerns over the stalled progress of the Domestic Workers Protection Bill (RUU PPRT) in Indonesia, highlighting the irony of commemorating Kartini Day while ignoring the essential contributions of domestic workers. Activists point to a lack of transparency and accountability in the legislative process, with conflicting statements from parliamentary officials and government bodies about the bill's status, despite its designation as a DPR initiative and promises from the President to enact it swiftly. The delay is seen as perpetuating vulnerability and violence against domestic workers, who often face exploitation in private settings, underscoring the need for protections like social security and regulations on placement agencies.

RATU Accelerates Oil and Gas Asset Acquisitions, Supported by Bond and Sukuk Funds

PT Raharja Energi Cepu Tbk (RATU) is ramping up its expansion in the upstream oil and gas sector through asset acquisitions, bolstered by strong investor support via recent bond and sukuk issuances, as well as banking facilities and potential new share offerings. The company reported a 10% profit increase to US$15.26 million in fiscal year 2025, one year after its IPO on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, reflecting operational efficiencies amid industry challenges. This growth enables more aggressive expansion, including evaluating domestic and international opportunities and potentially finalising one to two conditional purchase agreements soon, contributing to national energy resilience.

Industry Minister Ensures Resolution to Plastic Supply Disruptions

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has assured that the government is actively working to maintain plastic supply stability to avoid burdening small and medium-sized industries (IKM) amid global raw material shortages. He emphasised efforts to address not only supply issues but also pricing pressures by negotiating with producers to reduce profit margins and exploring alternative sources, particularly for naphtha imports currently reliant on the Middle East. The minister urged industries to adapt their procurement strategies and highlighted the global nature of the scarcity, while industry representatives noted some sourcing from Malaysia.

Promoting Local Wisdom-Based Innovation, Toyota Expands TEY to Toraja

Toyota Indonesia has extended its Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) programme to North Toraja, South Sulawesi, as part of the TEY Nusantara Exploration initiative to boost student participation and foster innovative environmental ideas rooted in local wisdom. The event, held in collaboration with local vocational schools like SMKN 2 Rantepao, aims to encourage young people to develop practical solutions for regional environmental challenges, building on the programme's 20-year history that has engaged over 2,000 schools across Indonesia. This expansion highlights Toyota's CSR commitment to sustainability and the potential of local knowledge in addressing broader ecological issues.

Military Prosecutor Reveals Reasons for Rejecting Merger of Case Files for Defendants in Bank Branch Manager Murder Case

In a Jakarta military court, Prosecutor Major (Chk) Wasinton Marpaung rejected the defence lawyers' objection to combining the case files of three military personnel accused of kidnapping and murdering a bank branch manager, arguing that splitting the files lacks legal basis and contradicts the interests of proof. He emphasised that splitting is a discretionary power of the prosecutor solely for evidentiary purposes and not a right of the defendants, allowing for optimal proof of all charges in a single file while ensuring judicial efficiency, consistency, and cost-effectiveness. This decision underscores the military's approach to handling interconnected criminal acts within the armed forces.