Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 April 2026

Showing 801-850 of 1,595 articles

National Nutrition Agency to Establish Nutrition Service Offices in Every Region

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has announced plans to form approximately 20 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Offices (KPPG) in Bogor Regency to oversee the implementation, evaluation, and reporting of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at district, city, and provincial levels directly to the BGN head. These offices, staffed exclusively by civil servants recruited by the BGN, will coordinate around 50 smaller Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) each, with a focus on ensuring targeted distribution and adherence to hygiene and health standards, including narcotics testing for staff. The initiative, mandated by the President, has been welcomed by the Bogor Regency Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which is managing 15 SPPG units and aims to expand to 20, emphasising quality and compliance to support national nutrition goals.

Why Are Dividends Important for Retail Investors? Here's the Explanation

Dividends are crucial for retail investors pursuing long-term financial goals, offering a stable cash flow that complements volatile stock price gains and contributes significantly to overall portfolio returns. They provide reliable income, especially during market downturns, and enable the power of compounding through reinvestment, allowing investors to increase their shareholdings and future earnings potential. This makes dividends an essential tool for building wealth, particularly for retirement or passive income objectives.

Mekkah Route Service for Hajj Pilgrims Expanded, Now Available at Four Airports

Indonesia's Minister of Immigration and Resettlement, Agus Andrianto, has announced the expansion of the "Mekkah Route" fast-track service for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, now extending to four airports including the addition of Makassar to the existing locations in Soekarno-Hatta, Solo, and East Java. This service allows pilgrims to complete document checks and passport stamping in Indonesia, eliminating immigration queues upon arrival in Jeddah or Madinah, with over 65% utilisation expected to streamline the process. The initiative, reported after a meeting with the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, enhances convenience for pilgrims by enabling direct transfer to accommodations upon landing in Saudi Arabia.

Deputy Interior Minister Wiyagus Urges Lampung to Become a Driver of the National Economy

Deputy Interior Minister Akhmad Wiyagus has emphasised the need for stronger synergy between central and regional governments to position Lampung Province as a key driver of Indonesia's national economy, highlighting its strategic role in national food security and supplies to Jakarta. He noted positive economic growth trends in Lampung but stressed that regional development must align with national policies, supported by enhanced human resources for commodity downstreaming and maintaining governmental integrity to ensure sustainable progress. Wiyagus called for active collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate development without delays.

Indonesia’s Forest Crackdown and the Dilemma of Self-Sufficiency vs Conservation

Indonesia's government, under President Prabowo Subianto, has intensified efforts to combat illegal plantations and mining, seizing vast areas of land and recovering billions in assets since early 2025. However, this crackdown coincides with rising deforestation driven by national goals for food and energy self-sufficiency, which often require converting forest lands, creating a stark trade-off between economic security and biodiversity preservation. Sustainable practices like palm oil certification offer partial solutions, but challenges persist amid a 66% surge in forest loss, threatening endangered species such as the Tapanuli orangutan and Sumatran elephant.

Industry Minister Ensures Plastic Supply Disruptions Do Not Burden SMEs

Indonesia's Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has assured that the government is working to maintain plastic supply stability and control prices to avoid burdening small and medium enterprises (SMEs) amid global shortages of raw materials like naphtha. Efforts include negotiating with producers to reduce profit margins for SME supplies and exploring alternative sources from countries beyond the Middle East, such as potential partnerships with major global producers. This initiative highlights the competitive global landscape for essential industrial inputs and encourages businesses to adapt their procurement strategies accordingly.

Judge rejects exceptions, trial in bank branch manager murder case proceeds

The Military Court II-08 in Jakarta has rejected all exceptions raised by the defendants and their legal team in the case alleging the murder of a bank branch manager, affirming the court's jurisdiction and the validity of the indictment. The panel ruled that combining the case files is appropriate as the alleged crimes form a single chain of events, and issues like the application of charges will be addressed during the main trial proceedings. This decision allows the trial to move forward to the evidence stage, underscoring the efficiency of the judicial process in handling interconnected criminal acts.

The High Cost of a Thumb: When a Legal Career Ends Before It Begins

In a striking incident at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law, 16 students face dropout sanctions for engaging in verbal sexual harassment within a digital chat group, underscoring the university's zero-tolerance stance on moral lapses among future legal professionals. This scandal highlights a broader paradox in Indonesian higher education, where aspiring guardians of justice perpetuate dehumanising narratives against female peers, revealing deep-seated toxic cultures that evade institutional oversight. The event prompts urgent reflection on digital literacy and ethical communication in academia, potentially exposing a widespread "iceberg" of unreported misconduct across campuses.

What is the Official Jasa Marga Toll Towing Fee in 2026?

PT Jasa Marga, Indonesia's state-owned toll road operator, maintains free towing services for stranded vehicles on its highways until 2026, covering towing to the nearest toll gate, towing pool, or within 1 km of the closest exit. Additional fees apply for tows beyond these limits, varying by vehicle class such as sedans (Group I) or buses and trucks (non-Group I), ensuring users are aware of costs for extended services. This policy underscores the importance of using official services for safety and reliability on toll roads.

Bengawan Solo Tributaries Overflow, Floods Hit Sukoharjo-Solo

Heavy rainfall from Tuesday night to Wednesday early morning caused several tributaries of the Bengawan Solo River to overflow, leading to flooding in Surakarta (Solo) and Sukoharjo Regency in Central Java. At least nine sub-districts in Solo and 14 villages across four sub-districts in Sukoharjo were inundated, with water levels reaching up to 1.5 metres in some areas, prompting evacuations and school closures. The Bengawan Solo River reached red alert status due to a significant rise in water levels, exacerbated by prolonged rain and upstream inflows, highlighting ongoing infrastructure vulnerabilities such as the lack of embankments along key waterways.

Illegal Whip Pink Business Dismantled! Warehouses Spread Across 12 Cities, Sold Via Ride-Hailing Services

Indonesian police have dismantled an illegal nitrous oxide (N2O) distribution network under the "Whip Pink" brand, arresting nine individuals and seizing hundreds of cylinders from three locations in Jakarta. The operation, which lacked proper licensing and BPOM approval, spans 16 warehouses across 12 cities including Jakarta, Bandung, and Makassar, with orders facilitated through admins and deliveries via online motorcycle taxis. The syndicate reportedly generated billions of rupiah in revenue over the past six months, highlighting significant enforcement challenges in regulating pharmaceutical preparations under the 2023 Health Law.

China and the US Lose Out! This Small Country is the Most Active in Lending to Indonesia

Indonesia's external debt reached US$437.9 billion in February 2026, up from US$434.9 billion the previous month, according to Bank Indonesia data. Singapore remains the largest creditor with US$53.95 billion, followed by the United States at US$27.80 billion and China at US$25.57 billion, highlighting Singapore's dominant role in Indonesia's debt portfolio despite declines in its lending. This trend underscores shifting dynamics in international lending to Indonesia, with China's debt growing faster recently while US lending has been steadily increasing since 2022.

Global Investment Pace Completely Transformed, Asia Charges Ahead Alone

Global foreign direct investment (FDI) flows have slowed significantly due to geopolitical tensions, rising nationalism, and state capitalism, reshaping investment patterns worldwide. While North America and Europe show minimal growth, Asian economies like China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan have experienced remarkable FDI expansion from 2017 to 2023. This shift is exemplified by US policies under Trump, including tariff threats that prompted investments from Asia, including a new trade agreement with Indonesia requiring greenfield investments in the US to maintain tariff reductions.

Indonesia's External Debt Rises to US$437.9 Billion in February 2026 Due to This

Bank Indonesia reported that Indonesia's external debt position increased to US$437.9 billion in February 2026, up from US$434.9 billion the previous month, with the debt-to-GDP ratio standing at 29.8 per cent. The rise was primarily driven by growth in public sector debt, particularly from the central bank's securities due to foreign capital inflows, while private sector debt declined by 0.7 per cent year-on-year. This development reflects ongoing efforts to maintain rupiah stability amid global uncertainties, with government debt utilised for key sectors like health, education, and infrastructure.

BI Records Indonesia's External Debt Rising to US$437.9 Billion in February 2026

Bank Indonesia reported that Indonesia's external debt position reached US$437.9 billion in February 2026, up from US$434.9 billion the previous month, with a year-on-year growth of 2.5 per cent. The increase was primarily driven by public sector debt, particularly from the central bank due to foreign inflows into Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities (SRBI), while private sector debt declined. Government debt utilisation focused on sectors such as health and social services, public administration, education, construction, and transportation, highlighting efforts to maintain economic stability amid global uncertainties.

South Kalimantan Forestry Service processes organic waste to support tropical forest rehabilitation

The South Kalimantan Forestry Service (Dishut Kalsel) is transforming organic waste, such as fallen leaves and office rubbish, into eco-friendly compost to aid the rehabilitation of tropical rainforests in Banjarbaru. This initiative involves shredding the waste with specialised machinery followed by standardised composting methods that ensure optimal moisture, aeration, and fermentation, producing mature organic fertiliser for maintaining forest garden plants and supporting broader land rehabilitation efforts. By reducing reliance on synthetic chemical fertilisers, improving soil structure, and maximising waste utilisation from sources like the Forest Plant Seed Garden and Nature Reserve, the programme promotes sustainable environmental management and enhances ecosystem quality in the region.

Elon Musk's xAI Faces Lawsuit Over Pollution from Its Data Centre

The US civil rights organisation NAACP has filed a lawsuit against Elon Musk's AI company xAI and its subsidiary MZX Tech, alleging that unauthorised methane gas turbines at the Colossus 2 data centre in South Memphis are polluting the air and endangering nearby residents' health. The suit, brought under the Clean Air Act, seeks to halt operations and impose economic penalties for federal law violations. This case underscores broader environmental concerns in the AI industry, where rapid data centre expansions often prioritise speed over regulatory compliance and ecological impact, even as the current US administration pushes to streamline permitting processes.

Iran Prepares Special Rules for Ships in the Strait of Hormuz

Iran plans to implement special shipping traffic regulations in the Strait of Hormuz, viewing it as a strategic asset for national sovereignty and negotiation leverage, according to government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani. This follows failed US-Iran ceasefire talks in Islamabad and President Trump's announcement of a US blockade on ships entering or exiting the strait, including orders to intercept vessels paying tolls to Iran. The developments heighten tensions in a critical global trade chokepoint, potentially disrupting international oil shipments and escalating geopolitical risks.

Judge Rejects Exceptions from 3 TNI Soldiers, Trial in State-Owned Bank Branch Head Murder Case Proceeds

The Military Court II-08 in Jakarta has rejected the legal exceptions raised by the defence team of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers accused in the premeditated murder of Mohammad Ilham Pradipta, the head of a state-owned bank branch. The presiding judge, Colonel Chk Fredy Ferdian Isnartanto, affirmed the court's jurisdiction and the validity of combining the case files, citing it as a single chain of criminal acts, with witness examinations set to begin on 27 April 2026. This decision ensures the trial moves forward, highlighting the military's handling of serious crimes involving its personnel and a victim from a key national financial institution.

Amran Denies B50 Programme Causes Rise in Cooking Oil Prices

Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has refuted claims that the B50 biodiesel programme is responsible for the recent surge in cooking oil prices, emphasising that national palm oil production is abundant and exceeds domestic needs. He highlighted that CPO output has risen to nearly 50 million tonnes from 44 million tonnes, with exports also increasing significantly, ensuring no disruption to local supplies. The government plans to monitor distribution closely and suspects market interference by cartels amid the plentiful stocks.

Whip-Pink Producer in Central Jakarta Changes Strategy After Lula Lahfah's Death

Indonesian police have uncovered the confession of AS, a supervisor at the Whip-Pink nitrous oxide gas production facility in Central Jakarta, who admitted to altering operations following the death of influencer Lula Lahfah by implementing stricter safety measures like warning labels. The illegal production, lacking BPOM approval, spans 16 warehouses across Indonesia and generates an estimated monthly turnover of Rp 2-5 billion since starting in 2025. Authorities are deepening investigations into the owner, JH, highlighting regulatory failures in the distribution of recreational gases.

KAI Enhances Services and Safety through 5G and AI-Based Digital Transformation

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PT Solusi Sinergi Digital Tbk (SURGE) and Huawei to advance its digital transformation, focusing on 5G networks for reliable operations, improved customer services like in-train internet, and AI-powered smart stations for efficient management. This collaboration aims to boost safety, operational performance, and passenger experience, positioning KAI as a world-class railway operator. In the first quarter of 2026, KAI served over 128 million passengers, marking a 9.97% increase from the previous year, underscoring growing public trust in its services.

Failed to Topple Iranian Government, Mossad Claims Mission Incomplete, to Continue After War

The ceasefire in the Iran-US-Israel war is set to end on 21 April 2026, with initial negotiations deadlocked and the US considering a second round soon, mediated by Pakistan. Amid these peace efforts, Mossad's director David Barnea has publicly affirmed that the agency's mission to overthrow the Tehran government remains unfinished and will proceed even after the conflict subsides. This marks the first open statement from a Mossad chief on regime change in Iran, following blame for earlier failures in the war's initial weeks.

Foreign Ministry: All Defence Cooperation Proposals Must Respect Indonesia's Sovereignty

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has emphasised that all defence cooperation agreements with foreign partners, including the United States, must fully respect the nation's sovereignty and adhere to national procedures. This statement addresses recent proposals for blanket overflight clearances for US aircraft over Indonesian airspace, which are still under careful review and do not form part of the newly signed Major Defence Cooperation Partnership (MDCP). The government remains committed to ensuring such collaborations benefit Indonesia without compromising its independent and active foreign policy or regional stability.

Precious Metals Rejoice! Global Gold Price Surges to Rp82 Million

The global price of gold has surged over 1% to reach US$4,791.65 per ounce, equivalent to approximately Rp82.12 million, driven by a weakening US dollar and rising hopes for a US-Iran peace agreement. Analysts attribute this rally to potential de-escalation in the Middle East, which could ease inflationary pressures, alongside falling oil prices that enhance gold's appeal as a safe-haven asset. This development underscores gold's resilience as an investment instrument amid geopolitical uncertainties.

Pramono Relieves Kalisari Ward Head of Duties Over AI Photo Report on Jaki App

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has relieved Siti Nurhasanah, the Ward Head of Kalisari, of her duties as a sanction following a case where a Public Facilities and Infrastructure Handler (PPSU) officer uploaded an AI-generated photo report on the Jaki application. This action, described as a temporary relief rather than a full dismissal, aims to allow for guidance and improvement without derailing her career. The decision follows a recommendation from the Jakarta Provincial Inspectorate after an investigation into the misuse of artificial intelligence in addressing public complaints.

BRIN appoints five new research professors to strengthen national innovation

The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has inaugurated five new research professors specialising in strategic fields including biomaterials, plant protection, palm oil policy, marine biotechnology, and air resource management, aiming to bolster Indonesia's innovation landscape. BRIN Head Arif Satria emphasised that the professorship marks the beginning of greater responsibilities, urging continuous research and inspiration for young scientists. These appointments are expected to advance sustainable agriculture, health sovereignty by reducing import dependency on medicines through local potentials, and high-value products from marine biodiversity.

Will AI Replace Humans in the Workplace? The Impacts and Explanations

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is sparking concerns about job displacement, yet it primarily automates repetitive tasks to boost efficiency rather than fully replacing human roles. While AI introduces challenges by shifting skill requirements and altering job types, it also creates new opportunities in technology fields like data analysis and AI development. Educational institutions such as Cyber University are adapting by strengthening curricula in AI and digital skills to prepare workers for this evolving landscape.

Asian-African Conference Museum Bustling with Visitors Ahead of 71st Anniversary Commemoration

The Museum of the Asian-African Conference in Bandung, West Java, is experiencing a surge in visitors, attracting 400 to 500 people daily, with numbers expected to rise further during the 71st anniversary celebrations from 18 to 24 April 2026. Inaugurated in 1980, the museum features exhibits such as dioramas and photographs of the historic 1955 conference, drawing both local and international crowds interested in this pivotal moment in decolonisation and global diplomacy. This increased footfall underscores the enduring significance of the Asian-African Conference in promoting solidarity among developing nations and its relevance to contemporary international relations.

39 SPPG Units in East Kalimantan Complete Wastewater Treatment Plant Repairs

In East Kalimantan, 39 out of 74 temporarily closed Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) have completed comprehensive repairs to their wastewater treatment facilities to meet food safety standards, allowing 21 of them to resume operations serving school meals. This initiative aligns with the provincial health department's efforts to enforce strict hygiene and sanitation protocols for large-scale catering services, which prepare around 3,000 safe meals daily for children. The programme, set to commence on 20 January 2025, includes mandatory certifications for all food handlers and rigorous fitness tests to prevent food poisoning incidents.

Janitor Fish Amid Jakarta's Structural River Pollution Problem

Governor Pramono Anung's directive for a comprehensive operation to catch janitor fish in Jakarta's rivers offers a visible, short-term control measure against an ecological threat, but it fails to address the root causes of river pollution. The presence of these invasive species serves as a biological indicator of degraded water quality, primarily driven by untreated domestic waste and household effluents that constitute over half of the pollution load in urban Indonesian rivers. Without tackling these structural issues, such interventions risk being mere distractions, allowing the cycle of environmental degradation to persist and potentially worsen.

Median Survey: 71.8% of Respondents Satisfied with Prabowo-Gibran Performance

A Median survey reveals that 71.8% of the Indonesian public is satisfied with the performance of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's government. Conducted via social media from 30 March to 7 April 2026 with 1,300 respondents aged 17-60, the poll highlights key satisfaction drivers including stable fuel prices, the free nutritious meals programme, and anti-corruption efforts. This high approval rating underscores early public support for the administration's policy initiatives.

Viral! ITB Mining Students Sing 'Erika' Song, Lyrics Deemed Lewd

A video of Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) mining students performing the song 'Erika' with lyrics perceived as vulgar and objectifying women has sparked widespread controversy on social media. The Himpunan Mahasiswa Tambang (HMT) ITB issued an apology, acknowledging the oversight in not considering modern social norms and emphasising that the performance does not reflect the values of their academic community. This incident highlights ongoing sensitivities around gender representation and ethical conduct in university settings.

What Impact Will 5G and AI Have on Trains? This is What Passengers Will Experience

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has partnered with Huawei and PT Solusi Sinergi Digital Tbk (Surge) to integrate 5G and AI technologies into the national railway system, aiming to enhance safety, efficiency, and passenger comfort. The collaboration, marked by a memorandum of understanding signed at Tanah Abang Station, will enable real-time monitoring via future railway mobile communication systems (FRMCS), predictive maintenance, and automated issue detection, potentially reducing accidents and improving service reliability. Initial trials on the Rangkasbitung-Tanah Abang route will focus on safety and efficiency before wider rollout, strengthening Indonesia's digital transport infrastructure.

NEVs Drive Surge in Shanghai's Automotive Exports in Q1 2026

Shanghai's ports exported over 400,000 new energy vehicles (NEVs) in the first quarter of 2026, accounting for nearly 70% of the city's total automotive exports and marking a significant increase driven by the Waigaoqiao and Nangang facilities. This growth, with daily exports averaging 6,600 vehicles including 4,500 NEVs, underscores China's expanding role in global markets, targeting destinations such as Belgium, Brazil, and South Africa. Authorities have enhanced customs efficiency through green channels, nonstop services, and big data analytics to support this booming trade.

Mineral Benchmark Price Formula Revised, State Revenue Could Increase!

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has revised the formula for calculating benchmark mineral prices (HPM) for nickel, copper, bauxite, and other minerals, aiming to correct the previously undervalued domestic nickel ore prices compared to international markets. This adjustment, outlined in Ministerial Decree No. 144 of 2026, incorporates correction factors and values for accompanying minerals like iron, cobalt, and chromium to boost state royalty revenues from the mining sector. The government anticipates this more adaptive regulation will enhance national income while responding to global commodity price dynamics.

Probolinggo Regency trials online ticketing system in Bromo tourist area

The Probolinggo Regency government in East Java is trialling an online ticketing system at the Mount Bromo tourist area to enhance service quality, transparency, and crowd management during major events like Bromo Sunset Music and Culture and Bromo Medic Run. Officials from the Youth, Sports, and Tourism Office highlight benefits such as reduced queues and better visitor flow, while acknowledging challenges including digital literacy gaps, payment access issues, and internet connectivity problems. Future plans include intensified outreach, network improvements, and support services to promote a more professional and sustainable tourism management.

BI: External Debt Rises to USD 437.9 Billion in February

Indonesia's external debt increased to USD 437.9 billion in February 2026 from USD 434.9 billion the previous month, with the debt-to-GDP ratio remaining stable at 29.8 per cent, according to Bank Indonesia. The rise was primarily driven by public sector debt, particularly central bank obligations due to foreign capital inflows into Bank Indonesia Rupiah Securities, while private sector debt declined slightly by 0.7 per cent year-on-year. This development underscores ongoing efforts by BI and the government to monitor and optimise external debt for sustainable economic growth while minimising risks to financial stability.

Immigration launches patrol task force to monitor foreigners in Bali

Indonesia's Immigration authority has established the Dharma Dewata Patrol Task Force to monitor the activities of foreigners in Bali, aiming to detect and prevent immigration violations while ensuring national security and sovereignty. Director General Hendarsam Marantoko emphasised that the patrols will enforce actions against offenders and deter potential disruptions, balancing the welcome of beneficial foreign nationals with the rejection of those threatening order. Bali Governor Wayan Koster welcomed the initiative, noting its importance in addressing recent incidents involving foreigners that have impacted tourism, with the Bali Immigration Office reporting 165 deportations and 62 detentions between January 1 and April 12, 2026.

MPR Deputy Chairman Assesses Indonesia in Safe Zone for Energy Security Due to Russian Oil Supply

MPR Deputy Chairman Eddy Soeparno has stated that Indonesia is in a secure position regarding energy security thanks to reliable oil supplies from Russia, which not all countries can access due to international price caps. He expressed hope that domestic oil stability will be maintained, highlighting the government's efforts in securing these supplies amid global tensions. Russia's stance against price restrictions imposed by the G7, EU, and Australia underscores the geopolitical significance of these arrangements for Indonesia's energy resilience.

Gold Prices Today 15 April 2026: Antam, UBS, and Galeri 24

Gold prices strengthened on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, across several precious metal providers in Indonesia. Antam gold bars increased by Rp 30,000 to Rp 2,893,000 per gram, while UBS gold rose by Rp 47,000 to Rp 2,934,000 per gram, reflecting positive market momentum for investors. These bars are available in sizes from 0.5 grams to 1 kg, offering flexibility for various investment needs.

Biznet Strengthens East Java Connectivity Through Digital Infrastructure

Biznet is enhancing digital infrastructure in East Java by expanding fibre optic networks, including a new submarine cable system connecting major Java cities and future links to Bali, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi, positioning Surabaya as a key connectivity hub. The company is boosting bandwidth capacity by 30% to 500 Mbps by January 2026, adjusting prices for affordability, and supporting digital transformation amid rising internet penetration and work-from-home needs. Additionally, Biznet is engaging communities through free internet access in Gresik, the Biznet Festival Surabaya 2026, and customer loyalty programmes like Biznet Prize Vaganza and the MyBiznet app innovations, fostering economic growth and digital lifestyles.

Business 'Disaster' Emerges for Malls After Eid, Entrepreneurs Start to Worry

Indonesia's retail industry is bracing for an extended low season following an earlier Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, which has shifted the typical post-holiday sales slump to last longer into the year, potentially until the end. This challenge is compounded by global pressures from the Middle East conflict, affecting economic conditions and consumer purchasing power. Industry leaders urge collaboration between producers and retailers to innovate, cut costs, and minimise price hikes to maintain competitiveness during this prolonged downturn.

NTB Provincial Government Prepares Scenarios to Face Prolonged Dry Season

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government is preparing multiple scenarios to address a potential prolonged dry season expected to last up to nine months, influenced by the El Nino phenomenon. Governor Lalu Muhamad Iqbal has outlined early anticipatory measures, including strengthening clean water supplies and optimising rain-fed agricultural land to maintain stable food production. Allocating around 14,000 hectares for land optimisation in 2025 aims to increase cropping indices from one to two harvests per year, with coordination efforts focusing on irrigation functionality and adjusted planting patterns.

Menhaj: Government prepares legal basis for proposed additional Hajj costs

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has allocated funds to cover an additional Rp1.77 trillion in Hajj pilgrimage expenses this year, primarily due to increased flight costs from Garuda Indonesia and Saudia Airlines, raising the total flight budget from Rp6.69 trillion to Rp8.46 trillion. Minister Moch. Irfan Yusuf assured that this additional burden will not be passed on to Indonesian pilgrims, and the government is currently discussing the legal framework with the DPR to approve the funding sources. Alternatives for financing have been prepared, drawing from the Hajj Operational Costs (BPIH) for pilgrim flights and the State Budget (APBN) for official group flights, in line with amendments to the Hajj and Umrah Law.

Happy Hapsoro Issuer (RATU) Targets Acquisition of New Upstream Oil and Gas Assets

PT Raharja Energi Cepu Tbk (RATU), owned by Happy Hapsoro, plans to acquire new upstream oil and gas assets both domestically and internationally to expand its portfolio and bolster national energy resilience, supported by strong investor backing from a recent oversubscribed bond and sukuk issuance worth Rp800 billion. The company reported a 10% profit growth to US$15.26 million in 2025 amid operational efficiencies and recently won an international tender to acquire full ownership of SMS Development Limited, enhancing its stake in the Madura Strait Block. RATU aims to optimise its funding structure through various instruments to fuel aggressive asset expansion while maintaining strict risk management.

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry affirms that US "overflight clearance" is still under review

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has stated that the overflight clearance requested by the United States for its aircraft to traverse Indonesian airspace is still under intensive review and does not confer unrestricted access to foreign parties. Spokesperson Yvonne Mewengkang emphasised that any cooperation, including with the US, will adhere to Indonesia's full sovereignty and national procedures, with overflight arrangements not forming a primary pillar of defence collaboration. This comes amid a recently signed military cooperation agreement focusing on technology development, operational readiness, and personnel ties, underscoring Indonesia's commitment to mutually beneficial partnerships.

Komnas Perempuan Classifies FH UI Sexual Violence Case as Electronic-Based Sexual Violence

The National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has classified the sexual violence case involving 16 students from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law (FH UI) as Electronic-Based Sexual Violence (KSBE) or Online Gender-Based Violence (KBGO). This form of abuse is explicitly prohibited under Law No. 12 of 2022 on Sexual Violence Crimes, and perpetrators cannot claim it was merely a joke, as digital spaces are not exempt from legal accountability. Komnas Perempuan urges authorities to handle the case fully under the law rather than reducing it to an ethical violation, highlighting the real threat KSBE poses to cybersecurity and victim safety.

Ahead of Rp119 Trillion Verdict, Plaintiffs Confident Lawsuit Will Be Granted by Judge

PT Citra Marga Nusaphala Persada Tbk (CMNP) expresses strong confidence that their Rp119 trillion civil lawsuit will succeed, citing robust evidence presented throughout the trial proceedings. The case revolves around losses from an uncashable Negotiable Certificate of Deposit, with CMNP arguing that the defendants' defenses lack legal basis and that the transaction involved an exchange of securities. In addition to material damages, CMNP has requested security attachments on the defendants' assets, hoping for an objective ruling from the Jakarta Central District Court on 22 April 2026.

South Sumatra Police Respond Swiftly by Renovating Home Affected by Tornado in Ogan Ilir

The South Sumatra Regional Police, through the Ogan Ilir Police Resort, conducted a home renovation and aid distribution for residents affected by a tornado in Ulak Kembahang I Village, Pemulutan Barat Subdistrict. Officers collaboratively repaired the severely damaged home of 65-year-old Nuridah, providing building materials and food assistance to restore habitability. This initiative, directed by the provincial police chief, embodies the police force's commitment to community protection and the motto 'Have You Done Good Today?'