Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 April 2026

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Bitmine Immersion Announces Ownership of 4.875 Million ETH Tokens and Total Crypto Holdings and Cash of $11.8 Billion

Bitmine Immersion Technologies has announced that its total crypto holdings, cash, and "moonshot" investments now stand at $11.8 billion, including 4.875 million ETH tokens valued at $10.75 billion, $719 million in cash, and other assets. The company, which recently uplisted to the New York Stock Exchange, holds the world's largest Ethereum treasury and has staked over 3.3 million ETH, generating significant annual staking rewards. This aggressive accumulation strategy, backed by prominent institutional investors, positions Bitmine as a leader in crypto treasury management amid global market volatility driven by geopolitical events like the ongoing Iran war.

Prabowo Arrives in Indonesia Welcomed by Vice President Gibran

President Prabowo Subianto has returned to Indonesia after completing a two-day state visit to Russia and France, landing at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base in Jakarta on Wednesday afternoon, 15 April 2026. He was greeted by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, along with key officials including the State Secretary, TNI Commander, National Police Chief, and Head of the State Intelligence Agency. During the visits, Prabowo held extensive discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin on enhancing cooperation in energy, space, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, education, and trade, as well as global geopolitical issues; in Paris, he met French President Emmanuel Macron to strengthen bilateral ties in defence procurement, renewable energy, infrastructure, transportation, education, and the creative economy.

OJK urged to implement early detection in supervisory system

Financial consultant Elvi Diana has urged the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to strengthen early detection mechanisms in its oversight of the financial services sector to swiftly identify potential violations and prevent widespread impacts. She highlighted the importance of technology, enhanced audits, and transparent reporting, using the alleged fraud case at PT Crowde Membangun Bangsa as a key example to improve control mechanisms and maintain public trust. In the first quarter of 2026, OJK imposed various sanctions on financial services businesses and blocked 953 illegal online lending entities following over 10,000 complaints.

Prabowo Scheduled to Attend May Day Events at Monas and Nganjuk

President Prabowo Subianto is set to participate in May Day celebrations on 1 May 2026, delivering a state speech to 200,000 workers at Monas in Jakarta at 8:00 AM WIB, followed by inaugurating the Marsinah Museum in Nganjuk, East Java, as a monument to labour struggles. The events aim to advance workers' welfare regulations and industrial revival, with Prabowo expected to announce supportive policies upon his return from an overseas trip. The KSPSI has also praised the police for resolving major layoff cases at PT Tarumartani in Yogyakarta, PT Daicheng in Bekasi, and PT Multi Strada.

Ibas promotes digital information sovereignty through multi-stakeholder collaboration

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono, Vice Chairman of the MPR RI, has advocated for digital information sovereignty by fostering collaboration among the government, media, and digital platforms to build a healthy, accurate, and high-quality information ecosystem. He emphasised the need to combat disinformation and hoaxes through enhanced digital literacy and higher information standards, expressing optimism that cross-sectoral synergies will yield positive outcomes. Ibas also highlighted President Prabowo Subianto's policies supporting digital sovereignty via infrastructure development and protective regulations, while underscoring the importance of balanced journalism in upholding democratic principles amid pressures on journalists.

North Sumatra KAI: Locomotives Use B40 Fuel

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) Regional Division I in North Sumatra has transitioned all its diesel engines and generators to B40 biodiesel, a blend of 60% diesel and 40% biodiesel, to enhance engine performance and reduce carbon emissions in line with the 2060 Net Zero Emission target. This initiative minimises environmental pollution and supports green transportation under ESG principles, while efficient use of subsidised fuel ensures affordability and reliability for public mobility. The move underscores KAI's commitment to sustainable transport in Indonesia, benefiting society through lower costs and eco-friendly operations.

Creative Economy Minister: KUR for Creative Industry Key to Creators' Access to Capital

Indonesia's Minister of Creative Economy, Teuku Riefky Harsya, has highlighted the strategic role of the creative industry as a new engine for national economic growth, particularly appealing to the youth, with significant contributions to investment, exports, and employment. However, he noted the primary challenge remains limited funding access for creators due to the intangible nature of their assets. The government is addressing this through an Intellectual Property-based KUR scheme for the creative industry, supported by valuation institutions and up to IDR 10 trillion in funding, aimed at enabling economic valuation of creative works as loan collateral and enhancing Indonesian creators' global competitiveness.

Health Minister Reveals Anomaly: Wealthy Individuals Still Enrolled as BPJS Health PBI Beneficiaries

Indonesia's Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has highlighted significant anomalies in the BPJS Kesehatan health insurance programme, revealing that 47,210 wealthy individuals are incorrectly registered as Penerima Bantuan Iuran (PBI) beneficiaries meant for the poorest 50 per cent. Further data shows 35 million non-wage workers and 11 million class 3 PBPU participants are also inaccurately targeted. The government plans to integrate data to redirect benefits to deserving recipients in lower income deciles, ensuring more equitable distribution of resources.

LPS Chief Reveals Reasons Why Banks Still Offer High Interest Rates Lavishly

The Chairman of the Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS), Anggito Abimanyu, has explained that banks continue to offer deposit interest rates exceeding the guarantee interest rate (TBP) due to intense competition in attracting customer funds, often through auction mechanisms and special rates. He noted that while banking liquidity is adequate and the TBP for rupiah deposits has been lowered to 3.5 percent as of January 2026, weak credit demand is a key issue preventing adjustments. This high deposit rate structure increases banks' cost of funds, thereby hindering reductions in lending rates and affecting overall economic recovery.

Canton Fair officially opens in Guangzhou, marking record number of participants

The 139th edition of the China Import and Export Fair, known as the Canton Fair, opened in Guangzhou on Wednesday, breaking records with over 32,000 participating companies and 179 exhibition zones, including nine new sections on emerging technologies like wearables and drones. As of 9 April, 290 leading buyers have confirmed participation, a 30% year-on-year increase, primarily from Belt and Road Initiative partner countries in Latin America and Africa. This event aligns with China's 15th Five-Year Plan goals for trade-investment integration and serves as a key barometer for the nation's foreign trade.

Deputy Chief of Police: Polri Public Relations Personnel Must Possess Good, Accurate, and Empathetic Communication Skills

Indonesia's Deputy Chief of Police, Komjen Dedi Prasetyo, addressed the 2026 Polri Public Relations Strategic Coordination Meeting in Jakarta, emphasising the vital role of public relations in managing public perception, building trust, and combating disinformation to uphold the institution's legitimacy. He advocated for an intelligence-led communication approach leveraging big data and AI for real-time monitoring and rapid responses, while stressing the need for all Polri personnel to internalise public relations functions as per Perkap Number 6 of 2023, ensuring communications are accurate, relevant, and empathetic. Dedi aligned these efforts with national policies under the RPJPN 2025-2045 and Polri's grand strategy, aiming to support the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045 through transformative, technology-driven policing.

Prabowo-Putin talks help ease energy supply risks: MPR

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly, Eddy Soeparno, has praised President Prabowo's recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin for securing crude oil and gas supplies to mitigate geopolitical risks to Indonesia's energy needs. The diplomatic efforts, including follow-up talks between energy ministers, underscore Indonesia's commitment to energy security, evidenced by the government's decision to maintain prices for subsidized fuel and LPG to preserve public purchasing power. This cooperation is seen as vital in a seller's market dominated by oil-producing nations, helping Indonesia avoid potential fuel shortages and ensuring affordable energy for its people.

Between ID Cards and Vehicle Taxes: The Never-Ending Policy Tangle

Indonesia's vehicle tax system exemplifies policy fragmentation, where mismatched identities between original owners and current payers—particularly for used vehicles—create administrative burdens despite digital advancements. Local governments rely heavily on vehicle taxes for regional revenue, leading to conflicts between simplifying processes, ensuring legal ownership via police oversight, and maximising fiscal intake. Integrating vehicle registration with the single National ID Number (NIK) could resolve these issues, enhancing tax compliance and preventing asset concealment, but institutional silos hinder progress.

Health Minister Reveals Anomalies in BPJS: Not All Funds Paid for the Poorest People

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin highlighted significant anomalies in the distribution of BPJS health insurance subsidies during a meeting with the DPR's Commission IX, revealing that funds intended for the poorest are being allocated to wealthier individuals, including 10% of the richest population. Specific discrepancies include 47,000 able-bodied recipients under the Ministry of Health's PBI programme and tens of millions more in regional and class 3 BPJS programmes, totalling over 46 million misallocated beneficiaries out of 159 million. The government plans to rectify this by reallocating subsidies from higher-income deciles to those in greater need, leveraging consolidated BPS data for fairer distribution.

Indonesia taps global education collaboration to boost capacity

Indonesia's Ministry of Education is emphasising strategic international partnerships to enhance the national research ecosystem and transform the learning system, as stated by Director General Fauzan Adziman at the 5th Education Investment Forum in Jakarta. These collaborations aim to address existing gaps, ensuring sustainable and effective outcomes aligned with national development priorities. The forum, themed 'Funding the Future of Learning', facilitates discussions among government and global institutions on adapting partnership models for Indonesia.

JFX Strengthens Futures Trading Ecosystem in Response to Global Situation

PT Bursa Berjangka Jakarta (JFX) is bolstering its futures trading ecosystem to address heightened global uncertainties driving commodity price volatility, emphasising the growing relevance of hedging mechanisms. The exchange is introducing flexible products like micro and nano contracts for commodities such as gold, silver, copper, and energy, alongside digital gold trading to enhance market inclusivity and accessibility for smaller investors. JFX's key products, including tin exports dominating 95% of Indonesia's market and leading derivatives like olein contracts, underscore its significant role in supporting transparent, regulated trading and liquidity enhancement.

BRI Bank (BBRI) Dividend Paid Out: How Much Money Will Enter Retail Investors' Accounts?

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BBRI) has distributed a total dividend of Rp 52.10 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year, equivalent to Rp 346 per share, with the final dividend of Rp 209 per share set to be paid soon into retail investors' accounts. Retail investors can calculate their payout by multiplying the number of shares they own by Rp 209, for example, receiving Rp 2.09 million for 100 lots (10,000 shares) or Rp 20.9 million for 1,000 lots (100,000 shares). This payout represents a significant income source for retail investors in Indonesia's capital market, highlighting BBRI's attractiveness as an investment amid economic conditions.

No BPOM Permit, Whip Pink Factory in Central Jakarta Has Extensive Distribution Network

Indonesian police have uncovered an illegal operation producing and distributing N2O gas under the Whip Pink brand from a factory in Central Jakarta, which lacks any permit from the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM). The network spans 16 warehouses across Java, Bali, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and NTB, with monthly sales averaging Rp 2-5 billion and peaking at Rp 7.1 billion in December. This raid highlights significant regulatory failures in controlling the misuse of laughing gas, often abused recreationally, and underscores the need for stricter enforcement against unlicensed producers.

BPOM Reveals Reasons for Delay in Implementing Nutri-Level Labelling

The Head of Indonesia's National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM), Taruna Ikrar, has explained that the implementation of the nutri-level labelling system for packaged products has been delayed due to the need for nearly two years to draft regulations balancing public health interests with business sustainability. While currently voluntary for packaged drinks with a two-year transition period before becoming mandatory, BPOM is offering incentives like expedited product approvals to encourage early adoption during the education phase. The policy, starting with sugary drinks and colour-coded from A (healthiest) to D (unhealthiest) based on sugar content, will gradually extend to ready-to-eat beverages in restaurants and eventually all sectors, including MSMEs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.

Rp 755 Billion Fine on Online Lenders Draws Scrutiny, Threatening Access to Financing for Small-Scale Public

The KPPU's imposition of a Rp 755 billion fine on 97 online lending companies has sparked criticism for potentially restricting financial inclusion, particularly for small-scale borrowers in rural areas. Experts argue that the decision, which challenges interest rate caps intended to protect consumers, lacks strong evidence and could drive people towards unregulated illegal lenders with higher rates and no safeguards. This regulatory move highlights tensions between promoting competition and ensuring consumer protection in Indonesia's digital finance sector.

Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources Implements New Formula for Mineral Benchmark Prices

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has introduced a new formula for determining mineral benchmark prices (HPM), effective from 15 April 2026, aimed at creating adaptive, fair, and transparent regulations to optimise state revenues and ensure equity among stakeholders. Key changes include adjustments to the nickel ore formula by incorporating corrective factors and additional minerals like iron, cobalt, and chromium; reductions in reactive silica factors for bauxite ore; and a shift in pricing units from dry to wet metric tons for various commodities. Officials urge mining companies, particularly those in nickel and bauxite, to coordinate closely with surveyors to provide comprehensive quality data in line with the updated guidelines.

Terra Drone Boss Apologises, Promises Scholarships for Children of Fatal Fire Victims

The CEO of PT Terra Drone Indonesia, Michael Wisnu Wardhana, has apologised to the families of the 22 employees killed in a devastating fire at the company's Jakarta office, expressing deep sorrow and committing to form a scholarship fund for the victims' children. Facing charges of negligence under Indonesia's Criminal Code for failing to prevent and extinguish the blaze, which was exacerbated by inadequate fire safety measures like the absence of emergency stairs and extinguishers, Michael pledged ongoing communication on compensation. This incident highlights critical workplace safety lapses in Indonesian businesses, potentially influencing stricter regulatory enforcement.

Top Chinese University Graduates Compete for Factory Jobs

Graduates from China's elite Tsinghua University are increasingly shifting from technology and finance sectors to manufacturing and energy, with a 19.1% annual rise in placements for the 2025 cohort, reflecting a broader national trend where manufacturing's share of graduates has climbed to 22.5% by 2024. This pivot is driven by government priorities in high-tech industries like semiconductors, electric vehicles, and renewables, which offer competitive salaries and advanced roles in robotics and AI, amid slowing hiring in tech due to regulations and layoffs at firms like Alibaba and Baidu. The move addresses a projected shortage of 30 million skilled manufacturing positions by 2025, positioning these sectors as promising career paths for top talent in China's evolving job market.

Indonesia's Misfortune with its Nickel

This opinion piece draws parallels between Indonesia's historical exploitation of natural resources, particularly nickel, copper, and gold, and Iran's oil nationalisation saga, highlighting how politically weak resource-rich nations often mine for foreign interests. It details the unequal Freeport contract under Soeharto, which granted minimal shares to Indonesia, contrasting Sukarno's nationalist stance, and notes the structural patterns of removing leaders demanding sovereignty. While Iran opted for confrontation leading to isolation, Indonesia pursued gradual negotiations, yielding legal gains but often at the cost of dignity.

Naming Rights for Political Parties at Jakarta Bus Stops Deemed to Violate Public Space Ethics

Political analyst Arifki Chaniago has criticised Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung's proposal to allow political parties to name bus stops and stations, arguing that such public facilities should remain neutral and not serve as tools for political branding. He warns that implementing this could blur the lines between public service and political interests, potentially undermining the inclusivity of shared spaces. The proposal is seen as inappropriate outside election campaigns, conflicting with regulations that strictly limit political promotions.

Industry Minister affirms Indonesia's industry resilience amid raw material disruptions

Indonesia's Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has emphasised the strong resilience of the national industry sector despite disruptions in raw material supplies caused by global geopolitical uncertainties, particularly from the Middle East conflict. Drawing parallels to the rapid recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic, he expressed optimism that these challenges are temporary and highlighted ongoing mitigation efforts, including strengthening upstream industries, promoting domestic raw materials, and diversifying export markets. The government is also prioritising energy and food security as part of President Prabowo Subianto's agenda to safeguard manufacturing growth.

KPK Examines 11 Witnesses to Probe Allegations of Extortion and Other Receipts by Madiun Mayor

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has interrogated 11 witnesses to investigate allegations of extortion through corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds and other gratuities involving suspended Madiun Mayor Maidi. The probe focuses on efforts to coerce entrepreneurs into providing CSR contributions, with Maidi, his trusted aide Rochim Ruhdiyanto, and the Head of Public Works Department Thariq Megah designated as suspects. This case highlights ongoing anti-corruption efforts in local government, involving demands for Rp 350 million in road access fees and Rp 600 million from developers under the guise of CSR.

Indonesian Police Simplify Payment of Used Vehicle Taxes Without Original Owner's ID

The Indonesian National Police's Traffic Corps has introduced measures to ease the payment of taxes on used vehicles by allowing owners to proceed without submitting the original owner's ID card, addressing longstanding complaints from buyers of frequently transferred vehicles. As a temporary solution, vehicle owners need only present the original STNK, current owner's ID, and proof of transaction like a sales receipt for annual tax payments, while full name transfers are encouraged for five-year STNK renewals or number plate changes. This initiative, part of broader public service reforms, emphasises flexibility and good faith, with long-term plans focusing on digitalisation and inter-agency data integration to streamline administrative processes.

Customs Destroys Illegal Goods Worth Rp 44.5 Billion in Riau

The Riau Customs Regional Office destroyed illegal goods valued at Rp 44.8 billion, including millions of cigarette sticks, alcohol, and imported items like used clothing and footwear, which had been declared state property for 2024-2025. This action, conducted symbolically and fully at a military site, stems from enforcement operations in Riau and West Sumatra, resulting in 10 investigations and 12 suspects. The destruction underscores Customs' commitment to upholding the law, protecting public health, fostering a fair business environment, and safeguarding state revenues, while calling for public participation in curbing smuggling.

Ibas Pushes for Strengthening Quality Information for a Healthy Media Ecosystem

Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas), Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly from the Democrat Party, has called for enhanced information sovereignty through collaboration among the government, media, and digital platforms to foster a healthy, accurate, and quality information ecosystem that supports national stability and public welfare. Speaking at a national audience with the Digital Platform Corporate Responsibility Committee for Quality Journalism, Ibas highlighted the need to combat disinformation and hoaxes with higher information standards and improved digital literacy, while referencing past regulations like the ITE Law and President Prabowo's digital sovereignty policies. The event also addressed challenges faced by journalists, the need for balanced reporting, and regulatory gaps in copyright and AI, with Democratic Party representatives pledging political support for these initiatives.

Prabowo Returns to Indonesia After Visits to Russia and France

President Prabowo Subianto has returned to Indonesia following state visits to Russia and France, where he engaged in high-level discussions on bilateral cooperation. In Paris, he met with President Emmanuel Macron to strengthen ties in defence procurement, industry, energy transition, renewable energy, infrastructure, transportation, education, and creative economy. In Moscow, Prabowo held talks with President Vladimir Putin on energy security, while his Energy Minister secured reserves of crude oil and LPG from Russia, underscoring Indonesia's efforts to bolster international partnerships for economic and energy stability.

MPR's Eddy: Energy Supply Secure After Prabowo-Putin Meeting

Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Eddy Soeparno, has expressed relief over Indonesia's secured energy supply following President Prabowo Subianto's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which resulted in agreements for crude oil and LPG imports amid the Middle East energy crisis triggered by the Iran-US-Israel conflict. Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed the deals, negotiated through government-to-government and business-to-business schemes with Russian firms like Rosneft and Lukoil, ensuring national energy reserves and stability. This diplomatic breakthrough is seen as a vital step in mitigating disruptions to Indonesia's energy needs, preventing potential shortages in fuel and gas.

BNI (BBNI) to Bolster Core Capital via AT-1 Bonds

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BNI) plans to issue new Additional Tier-1 Perpetual Non-Cumulative Capital Securities (AT-1) offshore to strengthen its capital ratio and support business expansion, while simultaneously conducting a tender offer to buy back its existing AT-1 securities issued in 2021. The issuance, compliant with US Securities Act Regulation S, will be listed on the Singapore Exchange and not offered to Indonesian investors, aiming to optimise the bank's capital structure amid favourable market conditions. As Indonesia's first issuer of such instruments in 2021 with a US$600 million bond, this move underscores BNI's proactive financial strategy in a competitive banking landscape.

Impact of AI photo manipulation: DKI restricts access to uploading reports on JAKI

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo announced restrictions on uploading reports to the Jakarta Kini (JAKI) app following an incident where PPSU workers manipulated photos using artificial intelligence to falsify fieldwork in East Jakarta. The measures aim to enhance transparency by limiting uploads to those directly handling complaints, with three involved officers receiving first warnings and a stern personal admonition from the governor. This response underscores the administration's commitment to genuine public service and warns of harsher penalties for future violations, addressing concerns over the integrity of local government operations.

KAI to Utilise AI for KRL Travel System, Trial on Green Line

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) plans to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its operational management for train journeys, aiming to replace manual processes with faster, more accurate AI-based systems. The initial trial will occur on the Tanah Abang-Rangkasbitung Green Line route, with potential expansion nationwide if successful, enhancing safety, operational efficiency, and customer service while reducing human errors and accidents at level crossings through AI-enhanced CCTV surveillance. This digital transformation underscores KAI's commitment to modernising Indonesia's rail infrastructure amid high-frequency commuter demands.

BRI Life Targets Active Lifestyle Segment to Boost Insurance Inclusion

PT BRI Life is leveraging the growing trend of healthy and active urban lifestyles to expand its customer base through the launch of its digital insurance product, Modi, via events like the Modi Fun Run 7K in Jakarta. The company is integrating insurance with everyday activities by partnering with fitness platforms such as Gofit, aiming to reach over 50,000 policyholders in the next year while promoting financial protection alongside healthy living. This strategy underscores a broader industry shift towards digital, lifestyle-linked insurance solutions to enhance financial inclusion among millennials and young segments.

War and Energy: How the Middle East Crisis is Shaking the Global Economy

The escalation of conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global economic optimism entering 2026, triggering a sharp surge in energy prices and broader economic risks, as highlighted in the IMF's latest World Economic Outlook. Key impacts include a negative supply shock raising production costs across sectors, potential wage-price spirals, and tightened global financial conditions that strengthen the US dollar, exacerbating inflation and debt burdens in developing countries. This crisis underscores the vulnerability of interconnected supply chains and commodity markets to geopolitical tensions.

Satpol PP Disciplines 12 Transvestites Disturbing Tourists in Canggu

Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) from North Kuta District has apprehended 12 transvestites in Canggu, Badung Regency, Bali, following complaints from locals and restaurant owners about their activities disrupting tourist comfort. The individuals, who were operating in the early hours by intercepting foreign visitors leaving night entertainment venues, were taken to the Social Services Office for processing and potential repatriation to their home regions outside Bali. This enforcement action, based on public order regulations, underscores efforts to maintain safety and order in key tourism areas amid reports of viral incidents involving fights and disturbances.

Hajj Ticket Auction Concept Still Immature, MUI Urges Ministry to Focus on This Year's Hajj Organisation

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called on the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to prioritise the upcoming 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, which is the ministry's first major event, over the underdeveloped concept of a 'war ticket' auction system for Hajj quotas. MUI Deputy Chairman Kyai Cholil Nafis emphasised the need for thorough studies on regulatory, fairness, waiting list, and financial aspects to avoid disruptions and potential loopholes like scalping. Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf agreed to shelve the idea temporarily to ensure the smooth execution of the imminent Hajj, following its proposal by Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak as an alternative to the existing queuing system if Saudi Arabia increases quotas.

Shell appoints Andri Pratiwa as President Director effective 1 May 2026

Shell has appointed Andri Pratiwa as President Director and Country Chair of Shell Indonesia, effective from 1 May 2026, succeeding Ingrid Siburian, who will transition to General Manager Mobility. This leadership change coincides with the company's focus on expanding its lubricants business, including investments in a new grease manufacturing facility in Marunda, while continuing the previously announced transfer of its petrol station operations to a joint venture between Citadel Pacific Limited and Sefas Group. The move underscores Shell's commitment to sustainable growth and positive contributions to Indonesia's economy through close collaboration with partners, government, customers, and communities.

Outcome of Prabowo's Visit, ESDM: Russia Willing to Supply Oil-LPG to Indonesia

Following President Prabowo Subianto's bilateral meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indonesia's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) announced positive signals for energy cooperation, including long-term supplies of crude oil and LPG to bolster national energy security. The agreement, explored through government-to-government and business-to-business schemes, also encompasses plans for new storage facilities in Karimun, Riau Islands, to enhance domestic refining and diversification of energy sources. This partnership is seen as crucial amid global uncertainties, leveraging Russia's substantial production capacity in oil and gas.

UI Law Faculty Sexual Harassment Case: Kemendiktisaintek Urged to Take Firm Action Against Perpetrators

A member of the House of Representatives' Commission X, Habib Syarief Muhammad, has urged the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology (Kemendiktisaintek) to decisively address the sexual harassment case involving 16 students at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law (FH UI), including potential expulsion to deter future incidents. He emphasised that universities should be safe spaces fostering respect, criticising the recent surge in such cases across institutions like Universitas Budi Luhur and Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa, and called for a national policy intervention rather than isolated campus handling. The ministry has coordinated with UI's rector to monitor the case, ensure victim support, and enforce regulations mandating task forces for prevention and handling of violence in higher education.

Welcomed by Gibran, Prabowo Arrives in Indonesia After Visit to Russia-France

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Indonesia on Wednesday afternoon following his official visits to Russia and France, where he held consultations with Presidents Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron on global geopolitical issues and bilateral cooperation. Discussions with Putin focused on strengthening economic and energy ties amid future challenges, while talks with Macron covered defence procurement, renewable energy, infrastructure, transportation, education, and the creative economy. The visits underscore Indonesia's commitment to fostering sustainable partnerships with key international players for mutual benefit.

Ministry of Immigration and Corrections Takes Firm Action Regarding Inmate's Visit to Coffee Shop

The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Kemenimipas) has ordered a thorough investigation into the viral incident where a corruption convict, identified only by the initial S, was spotted at a coffee shop in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, after attending a case review hearing. The probe targets prison officials, security personnel, and escorts involved, with potential sanctions including job dismissals if violations are confirmed. This case highlights the ministry's commitment to upholding correctional standards, aided by public vigilance via social media.

Mount Dempo erupts, ejecting ash 3.5 km

Mount Dempo in South Sumatra experienced an eruption, propelling an ash column to 3,500 metres above the summit, as reported by Indonesia's Geological Agency under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. Although no rumbling sounds were reported, the volcano remains at Alert Level II, with authorities advising against approaching within a 1-2 km radius of the crater due to risks from volcanic gases and potential further activity. The public is urged to stay calm and follow local guidelines amid ongoing monitoring.

UAE Ambassador Meets MPR Leader Eddy Soeparno to Discuss Renewable Energy Cooperation

The UAE Ambassador to Indonesia, Abdulla Salem AlDhaheri, met with Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Eddy Soeparno, to advance bilateral cooperation in renewable energy, building on the successful floating solar power plant project at Cirata Reservoir in West Java managed by UAE's Masdar. This partnership aligns with Indonesia's ambitious goal of developing 100 GW of solar power under President Prabowo Subianto's administration, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The collaboration is expected to facilitate technology transfer, human resource development, and Indonesia's integration into the global green energy supply chain, while the MPR pushes for regulatory frameworks like the Renewable Energy Bill.

South Kalimantan Quarantine Thwarts Entry of Illegal Orchid and Aglaonema Seedlings

South Kalimantan's Animal, Fish, and Plant Quarantine Agency has intercepted 407 illegal orchid and aglaonema seedlings from Surabaya at Trisakti Port in Banjarmasin due to the absence of required health certificates, preventing potential spread of pests and diseases. This action, authorised under Law No. 21 of 2019, underscores the strict oversight of agricultural imports to protect local horticulture and economy from quarantine risks. The cooperative owner agreed to return the shipments, with authorities vowing to intensify inspections at entry points.

UN Spotlights North Korea's Nuclear Weapons Production Capabilities: Rapidly Increasing!

The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, has highlighted a "very serious increase" in North Korea's ability to produce nuclear weapons, with rapid advancements at facilities like the Yongbyon nuclear site. This includes heightened operations in uranium enrichment and reprocessing units, potentially enabling the production of several dozen warheads, amid ongoing UN sanctions for its prohibited weapons programme. While North Korea vows never to relinquish its nuclear arsenal, Grossi noted no specific evidence of Russian assistance, despite reports of military exchanges between Pyongyang and Moscow.

LPS: Inactive Accounts Not an Issue, As Long As Not Misused

The Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) reports approximately 50,000 inactive bank accounts in Indonesia, a 9% decrease from the previous year, but emphasises that the key concern is preventing their misuse rather than the number itself. LPS notes that banking liquidity remains ample, with third-party funds growing by 13.83% annually by the end of 2025, outpacing credit growth of 9.63%, indicating subdued loan demand and unchannelled deposits. Strengthening economic activity is seen as crucial to optimise the flow of these funds into productive sectors.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Encourages Young Women to Request Hajj Ticket as Dowry When Marrying

The Head of the Central Java Regional Office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suggested that young women request a Hajj pilgrimage slot, costing Rp 25 million, as their marriage dowry, citing the 26-year national waiting period for Hajj registration. This recommendation aims to make the dowry more beneficial, especially given that traditional dowries often exceed this amount and families are already registering children early to account for long waits. In Central Java, over 911,000 people are on the waiting list, with 34,122 pilgrims departing this year, highlighting the high demand for this religious obligation.