Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 April 2026

Showing 901-950 of 1,595 articles

Parliament Drafts International Private Law Bill to Address Cross-Border Cases

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) is drafting a Bill on International Private Law (HPI) to tackle the growing complexities of cross-border legal relations in the era of globalisation. Currently, regulations rely on outdated colonial-era provisions, which are limited and territorial, failing to address modern dynamics driven by technology and digitalisation. The new law aims to provide comprehensive guidelines for judges handling international civil cases, ensuring legal certainty and adaptability to evolving international interactions.

Experts Criticise Local Governments' Plan to Impose Surface Water Tax on Palm Trees

Legal experts have criticised plans by several Indonesian regional governments to impose a surface water tax (PAP) of Rp 1,700 per palm tree per month, arguing that it lacks a legal basis and violates the 2022 Law on Financial Relations between Central and Regional Governments (HKPD) as well as Government Regulation No. 35 of 2023 on General Provisions for Regional Taxes and Levies. The Director of the Centre for Legal Studies and Advocacy on Natural Resources, Muhamad Zainal Arifin, described the policy as illogical, noting that palm trees absorb rainwater naturally through the soil rather than actively extracting surface water like rivers or lakes, which is required for the tax to apply. Provinces such as Riau, West Sumatra, and Bengkulu are preparing to implement the tax, with West Sumatra aiming to collect Rp 1 trillion annually, starting with Rp 5.94 billion in 2026 from non-smallholder palm plantations.

Inalum's Net Profit Rises 15% in 2025, Reaching Rp2.44 Trillion

PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium (Inalum) reported a 15% increase in net profit for 2025, reaching US$142.8 million (equivalent to Rp2.44 trillion), driven by higher production volumes and maintained operational efficiency amid global market volatility. The company highlighted consistent revenue growth, significant EBITDA improvements, and positive financial ratios, including a 6% ROA and 7% ROE, as part of its consolidation and acceleration efforts. Looking ahead to 2026, Inalum is shifting focus to executing downstream projects, including the near-completion of the Smelter Grade Alumina Refinery Phase 1 and a US$2.4 billion investment in the Mempawah Smelter 2, supported by energy synergies with PT Bukit Asam Tbk to enhance national aluminium production capacity.

Yusril: Justice in the 21st Century Goes Beyond the Ability to Impose Penalties

Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, stated at the 7th World Congress on Probation and Parole in Bali that modern justice must balance punishment with accountability, victim protection, public safety, human dignity, and opportunities for offender rehabilitation. He emphasised the role of probation and parole as key indicators of a mature legal system, advocating for evidence-based, ethical reforms supported by technology and cross-sector coordination to foster safer societies through restorative justice. Minister Agus Andrianto highlighted the event's international collaboration and Bali's selection as reflecting local wisdom aligned with contemporary progress in breaking recidivism cycles.

LPS Chief Shares Experience of Encouraging Family to Switch to Sharia Banking

The Chairman of Indonesia's Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS), Anggito Abimanyu, recounted his personal journey of switching to Islamic banking since 2004 and redirecting all his income to sharia accounts, while also persuading his entire family to follow suit. He emphasised that compliance with sharia principles must precede any consideration of profits, highlighting this as the core strength of the system. Anggito also noted the positive growth of the national sharia banking sector, exemplified by Bank Syariah Indonesia's assets doubling to over Rp400 trillion since the 2021 merger, presenting it as a success story with further expansion potential through consolidations.

Deputy Chief of Police: Polri's Public Relations Division Must Serve as Guardian of Truth Amidst the Rapid Flow of Information

Indonesia's Deputy Chief of Police, Komjen Dedi Prasetyo, has urged the Polri Public Relations Division to act as the frontline guardian of accurate information in the face of rampant digital disinformation and hoaxes. Speaking at a technical working meeting in Jakarta, he highlighted the division's critical role in verifying facts swiftly to prevent public unrest and social conflicts, emphasising the use of modern technologies like big data and AI for rapid detection and response. This directive underscores the national importance of credible communication in maintaining public stability and protecting society from misleading information.

Social Media Restrictions Deemed to Strengthen Children's Character

The Bengkayang Regency Government, through its Education and Culture Office, supports the implementation of social media usage restrictions for children as a strategic step to shape the character of the younger generation towards the Golden Indonesia vision. This policy, based on Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Regulation No. 9 of 2026 and Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025, limits access to high-risk platforms like TikTok and Instagram for users under 16, emphasising controlled use for educational purposes. Officials highlight the role of parents, schools, and a new educational platform in fostering digital literacy and integrity, aiming to enhance social interactions and support Indonesia's 2045 goals.

Photos of Former Finance Minister Agus Martowardojo, Sri Mulyani's Predecessor under SBY, Touring IKN with Basuki

Agus Martowardojo, who served as Finance Minister under President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and later as Bank Indonesia Governor, visited the Nusantara Capital (IKN) project in East Kalimantan, where he was warmly welcomed by OIKN Head Basuki Hadimuljono. The visit included discussions on construction progress and inspections of key areas such as the State Palace site and Beranda Nusantara, highlighting the project's appeal to high-profile figures. This engagement underscores the growing interest in Indonesia's new capital as a national strategic initiative, attracting both domestic leaders and international attention.

Faizal Assegaf Reports KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo to the KPK Oversight Board

Faizal Assegaf, the Director of PT Sinkos Multimedia Mandiri, has filed a complaint against KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo with the KPK's Oversight Board, alleging a breach of ethical codes related to statements made during an examination in a corruption case involving the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. This follows Assegaf's prior police report against Budi for defamation, amid an ongoing investigation into bribery and gratifications in import documentation, where seven suspects, including former customs officials and company representatives from PT Blueray, have been detained. The case highlights tensions in anti-corruption enforcement and potential ethical lapses within the KPK.

Story of KKMP Siswodipuran in Boyolali: No Building and Struggling

The KKMP Siswodipuran cooperative in Boyolali, Central Java, has been operating without its own building since September 2025, relying on a small room in the local ward office and facing challenges due to the lack of available land. Led by Edi Muhamad Ismail, the cooperative sustains itself through member contributions and small ventures like selling basic necessities, partnering with Bank Jateng for financial inclusion, and revitalising an abandoned reservoir for fishing. Despite requests to utilise unused county buildings and hopes for military assistance in construction, no progress has been made, highlighting broader issues for similar cooperatives in the area.

ISC Achieves PCI DSS Certification, Strengthening Tier IV Data Centre Security

PT Indonesia Super Corridor (ISC) has obtained PCI DSS certification for its Tier IV Data Centre at ISC Tower in South Jakarta, enhancing the security of digital transaction data in line with global standards. This certification, assessed by a Qualified Security Assessor, ensures robust protection for payment account data and strict access controls, benefiting clients in finance, payment systems, and e-commerce. The move complements ISC's established portfolio of colocation, cloud services, and data centre solutions, underscoring its commitment to data governance amid growing digital reliance.

Welcomed by Gibran, Prabowo Arrives in Indonesia After Meeting Putin and Macron

President Prabowo Subianto returned to Indonesia after official visits to Russia and France, where he held bilateral meetings with Presidents Vladimir Putin and Emmanuel Macron to strengthen cooperation in key areas such as energy, defence procurement, infrastructure, and education. The discussions in Moscow focused on energy and education partnerships, while the Paris talks covered defence industry enhancement, renewable energy transitions, transportation, and creative economy. Prabowo was greeted at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base by Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka and other high-ranking officials, underscoring the diplomatic significance of these engagements in bolstering Indonesia's international relations.

Middle East Economy in Severe Crisis, Iran and Qatar Hard Hit

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its growth forecasts for several Middle Eastern countries in its April 2026 World Economic Outlook, predicting contractions of up to 8% this year due to ongoing conflicts and disruptions. Qatar faces the steepest decline at 8.6% following attacks on its Ras Laffan gas field and trade route blockages, severely impacting its LNG exports, while energy-dependent Gulf states also anticipate contractions. Regionally, growth in the Middle East and Central Asia is expected to slow to 1.9% in 2026 from 3.6% in 2025, with recovery projected for 2027 unless conflicts escalate further.

Komnas Perempuan Urges Legal Processing of FHUI Group Chat Case, Not Just Ethical Violations

The National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) has condemned the alleged harassment by 16 University of Indonesia (UI) Faculty of Law students in a group chat, demanding full legal proceedings under the Sexual Violence Crimes Law rather than reducing it to mere ethical breaches. The incident qualifies as electronic-based sexual violence, with real psychological impacts on victims that cannot be dismissed as jokes, and Komnas Perempuan warns that internal university handling risks perpetuating impunity. UI is conducting a victim-centered investigation through its task force, while the faculty has imposed organizational sanctions on the perpetrators.

Piles of Rubbish Covered by Sheds Tower in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, Residents Complain of Odour

Large piles of rubbish and wooden debris have accumulated along Jalan Kepanduan 2 in Penjaringan, North Jakarta, next to the city's forest park, causing a strong unpleasant odour and increased flies, as reported by local residents since late 2024. Despite repeated complaints via the JAKI app and warnings from the Pejagalan sub-district office to 12 illegal open dumping sites on government land, the issue persists with no firm resolution yet. This situation highlights ongoing challenges in urban waste management and enforcement in densely populated areas of the capital.

Assault case prompts Kompolnas to urge Polri to establish prevention mechanisms

The National Police Commission (Kompolnas) has urged the Indonesian National Police (Polri) to develop internal oversight and prevention mechanisms following a fatal assault case among junior officers at the Riau Islands Police barracks. The incident, which resulted in the death of one officer and injury to another, stemmed from an altercation over alleged failure to perform community service duties, leading to the suspect's designation and ongoing criminal and ethical investigations. This push highlights the need for stronger preventive measures to curb internal police misconduct and ensure accountability.

OJK Emphasises that SLIK Relaxation is Not to Avoid Bad Debts

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) in Bali has clarified that the relaxation of the Financial Information Services System (SLIK) policy, which excludes loans under Rp1 million from default records, is not intended to evade non-performing loan (NPL) notations but to streamline the housing loan process for the government's three million homes programme. OJK Bali Head Parjiman noted that such small amounts are often administrative fees or forgotten fines, and while they remain recorded by lenders, the measure aims to facilitate access to people's housing loans (KPR). This policy aligns with OJK's full support for the national priority initiative to build three million homes for Indonesians.

Indonesia's External Debt Reaches US$438 Billion, Up US$3 Billion in February 2026

Indonesia's external debt position stood at US$437.9 billion in February 2026, marking an increase of US$3 billion from the previous month and a year-on-year growth of 2.5 per cent. The rise was primarily driven by public sector debt, particularly the central bank's instruments amid foreign capital inflows, while private sector debt declined slightly. Bank Indonesia officials noted that the debt structure remains healthy, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 29.8 per cent and strong coordination to support sustainable economic growth.

Mother of Terra Drone Fire Victim Weeps Recalling Moment She Saw Her Child's Corpse

In a heartfelt testimony at the Central Jakarta District Court, Mimi Adriani Nasution, the mother of deceased Terra Drone employee Raihansyah, tearfully recounted the final moments she spent with her son's body following the tragic office fire that claimed 22 lives. She described how her son appeared to have died from inhaling toxins from drone batteries rather than burns, and expressed forgiveness towards the company's CEO, Michael Wisnu Wardhana, who is accused of negligence in fire prevention and evacuation measures. The case highlights critical safety lapses in the building, including the absence of emergency exits and fire extinguishers, underscoring the need for stricter workplace safety regulations in Indonesia.

Video: AI Simplifies Job Application Process - Helps Companies Find Candidates

JobStreet by Seek Indonesia is leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance the recruitment process, improving the accuracy of matching job seekers' skills with company needs amid a vast pool of millions of candidates and job openings. The platform offers services for job seekers to upskill and simplify their search, while aiding companies in identifying suitable talent. This AI-driven approach positions JobStreet as a leading recruitment platform with the largest database, advanced matching technology, and expert support.

Attorney General Wants Faculty of Medicine at Adhyaksa University

Attorney General Sanitiar Burhanuddin has expressed his ambition to establish a Faculty of Medicine at Universitas Adhyaksa, the educational institution under the Attorney General's Office, expanding beyond its current focus on legal studies to include health sciences. The university already offers a Public Health programme and operates several general hospitals across Indonesia, which could serve as teaching facilities, with only a minimal portion currently used for detainee healthcare. Burhanuddin plans to collaborate with the Indonesian Medical Association (IDI) to realise this vision, highlighting the potential for broader public service through the existing infrastructure and 200 employed doctors.

Corruption Convict Caught Hanging Out in Kendari Café, Prison Officers Under Investigation

A corruption convict named Supriadi, former Head of the Harbourmaster in Kolaka, was caught on video lounging in a coffee shop in Kendari, Sulawesi Tenggara, after attending a judicial review hearing, prompting an investigation by the Directorate General of Corrections. Authorities are examining prison staff, including the head of the detention centre and security personnel, for allowing the breach. If violations are confirmed, sanctions up to dismissal will be imposed, underscoring efforts to enforce strict compliance in Indonesia's correctional system.

US Aircraft Allowed to Pass Over: 'It's the Same as Indonesia Supporting the Attack on Iran'

Prominent Indonesian religious leader Buya Anwar Abbas, Vice Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) and Chairman of Muhammadiyah's Central Board, has urged the government to firmly reject any request from the United States to allow its fighter jets to traverse Indonesian airspace amid escalating tensions with Iran. He argues that granting such permission would equate to supporting military aggression and colonialism, contravening Indonesia's cherished principles of humanity and justice. Abbas calls on President Prabowo and the House of Representatives to stand resolute against US pressure, prioritising divine and national accountability over fear of figures like Donald Trump.

The Conglomerate Figure Behind the Kokas Mall

Mal Kota Kasablanka, popularly known as Kokas, is one of Jakarta's busiest shopping centres, owned and operated by PT Pakuwon Jati Tbk under the Pakuwon Group, founded by entrepreneur Alexander Tedja in 1982. Tedja, born in Medan in 1945, transitioned from the film and cinema industry—where he established companies like PT ISAE Film in 1972—to property development, starting with the iconic Tunjungan Plaza in Surabaya, which opened in 1986 and remains Indonesia's largest mall. As President Commissioner of Pakuwon Jati, Tedja holds significant control through direct and indirect shareholdings, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping Indonesia's retail and property landscape.

IFG Life Prepares Rp 7.5 Trillion for Claims of 94,793 Former Jiwasraya Customers

PT Asuransi Jiwa IFG (IFG Life) has allocated over Rp 7.5 trillion to pay insurance claims and benefits to 94,793 former PT Asuransi Jiwasraya customers by 2026, fulfilling the mandate from the Jiwasraya restructuring. The Indonesian government has supported this initiative with a state capital injection (PMN) of Rp 26.56 trillion through the Indonesia Financial Group (IFG), the state-owned holding company for insurance, guarantees, and investments. This commitment underscores IFG Life's dedication to timely and accurate claim settlements, enhancing customer protection and upholding good corporate governance in the insurance sector.

Minister Irfan Struggles with Rising Hajj Flight Costs

Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has expressed concern over a sudden surge in aviation fuel prices, leading to additional flight cost demands from Garuda Indonesia and Saudi Airlines for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, totaling Rp 1.77 trillion. President Prabowo Subianto has directed that this burden not be passed on to pilgrims, with the government seeking legal grounds to disburse existing funds to cover the shortfall. The issue, driven by fuel price hikes and currency fluctuations, was discussed in parliament, highlighting ongoing challenges in managing pilgrimage expenses amid economic pressures.

MPR Leadership Meets UAE Ambassador, Discusses Renewable Energy Development

Indonesia's Deputy Speaker of the MPR, Eddy Soeparno, met with the UAE Ambassador to Indonesia, Abdulla Salem AlDhaheri, to advance bilateral cooperation on renewable energy, particularly through expanding the floating solar panel project in Cirata, West Java, managed by UAE's Masdar. This meeting coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations and supports President Prabowo Subianto's ambitious 100 GW solar panel programme and energy transition initiatives. The UAE expressed gratitude for Indonesia's support in facilitating investments, highlighting mutual commitments to accelerating the shift to sustainable energy sources.

Home Affairs Ministry prepares housing programme for border areas

The Indonesian Ministry of Home Affairs, through its head Tito Karnavian, is urging the National Border Management Agency (BNPP) to implement a housing renovation programme for 15,000 uninhabitable homes in border areas, as budgeted by the Ministry of Public Works and Housing. This initiative involves mapping suitable regions and coordinating with Statistics Indonesia for targeted data on community needs, aiming to boost welfare, nationalism, and national sovereignty in these frontline areas. The programme aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives, demonstrated by recent distributions in North Sulawesi, underscoring the government's commitment to social resilience in remote regions.

KCI Security Officer Praised by KAI for Preventing Passenger from Forcing onto Overcrowded Train at Manggarai

A KCI security officer, Riyanto Deni Susilo, was commended by KAI Services for his professional handling of an aggressive passenger attempting to board an already full KRL train at Manggarai Station, where she even pulled his hat. The incident, which went viral on social media, highlighted the officer's dedication to passenger safety and operational order, earning him an official award from the company's director. This recognition underscores KAI's commitment to prioritising safety in public transportation amid common overcrowding issues in Jakarta's commuter rail system.

Stagnant for 20 Years, Revision of Military Judiciary Law Deemed to Ignore the Constitution

The revision of Indonesia's Military Judiciary Law (UU No. 31/1997) has been stalled for over two decades, potentially disregarding constitutional mandates, as highlighted by expert witness Al Araf during a Constitutional Court hearing on 14 April 2026. Araf criticised the law's origins in the repressive New Order regime, arguing it prioritised control over rule of law principles, and emphasised that military courts should only handle military crimes, with general criminal cases involving military personnel directed to civilian courts. This case underscores ongoing tensions between military and civilian judicial jurisdictions, aiming to align with post-amendment constitutional reforms that limit military court powers.

Netanyahu Suffers Losses Due to Iran War, Likely to Step Down Soon

Former Israeli Interim President Avraham Burg has criticised Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for failing to gain political advantage from the conflict with Iran, instead facing significant setbacks. Burg argues that Netanyahu's strategy to prolong the war for domestic unity and electoral benefits has backfired, predicting it will lead to his government's downfall in upcoming elections. He dismisses Iran as an existential threat to Israel, advocating for diplomatic resolution, and views the US ceasefire initiative as a rift between Washington and Jerusalem that ultimately benefits Iran.

Plastic Prices Surge, Eco-Friendly Businesses Reap the Benefits

The surge in plastic prices, driven by geopolitical conflicts disrupting oil and petrochemical supplies, is reshaping the global industry and boosting demand for sustainable alternatives. South Korean eco-friendly packaging producer Yonwoo has seen a threefold increase in orders for paper-based packaging, which uses only 20% of the plastic in conventional products, supplying major firms like L’Oreal. As Asia, the world's largest plastic consumer, faces shortages, businesses like Japanese retailers are grappling with supply uncertainties, highlighting a broader shift towards environmental sustainability.

Addressing Complaints About Heat and Rain, KAI Commuter to Build Canopies on Bogor Station Platforms

KAI Commuter has announced plans to construct canopies on platforms 6 to 8 at Bogor Station to shield passengers from heat and rain, in response to public complaints. This initiative will be integrated with ongoing construction to extend the platforms and tracks, which will temporarily close those areas for about 90 days. To manage passenger flow during the works, alternative routes via the West and East Gates and the Paledang Skybridge have been arranged.

Minister Directs Dismissal of Detention Officials if Proven to Have Violated Rules on Inmate's Coffee Shop Visit

Indonesia's Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services, Agus Andrianto, has instructed the Directorate General of Corrections to investigate and potentially dismiss prison officials involved in allowing a convicted corruption inmate, Supriadi, to visit a coffee shop during an official outing for a court hearing review. The incident, captured in a viral video, has prompted a thorough examination of the prison head, security chief, and escorting officers, with sanctions up to removal from position if violations are confirmed. This response underscores the government's commitment to upholding correctional standards and appreciates public oversight in maintaining accountability.

MPR receives visit from UAE Ambassador and discusses expansion of energy cooperation

The Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Eddy Soeparno, met with the UAE Ambassador to Indonesia, Abdulla Salem Al Dhaheri, to discuss broadening bilateral cooperation, particularly in renewable energy, marking 50 years of diplomatic ties. The talks highlighted the UAE's commitment through its Masdar company to expand the Cirata floating solar panel project in West Java, aiming to make it the world's largest, in support of President Prabowo Subianto's 100 GW solar initiative. Eddy reaffirmed MPR's push for accelerating the energy transition via pending bills on oil and gas, new and renewable energy, and climate change management, while the ambassador expressed gratitude for Indonesia's support.

Bitcoin (BTC) Price Rally Continues as Iran's 'Crypto Toll' Policy Triggers Surge

Bitcoin's price surged approximately 6% to near $75,000 on 13 April 2026, driven by a massive short squeeze amid escalating global geopolitical tensions, particularly the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's retaliatory mandate for a 'Bitcoin toll' on all tanker ships passing through the strategic route. This policy highlights the growing adoption of cryptocurrencies in international economic activities to circumvent sanctions and maintain transaction flows outside US financial reach. Compounding the rally, US inflation rose to 3.3% in early April 2026, prompting investors to diversify into Bitcoin as a safe haven asset, bolstered by $1.94 billion in inflows to spot Bitcoin ETFs during March-April 2026.

CENTCOM: US Halts Iran's Maritime Trade Within 36 Hours

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced that American forces have completely stopped all maritime trade to and from Iran within less than 36 hours of imposing a blockade. This action follows the failure of direct US-Iran negotiations in Pakistan to end the ongoing war that erupted on 28 February, with the blockade targeting all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman while exempting non-Iranian traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. The move underscores escalating tensions in the Middle East, potentially disrupting global energy supplies and international trade routes.

Commission III Appreciates Swift Response from UI Faculty of Law Students in Handling Case

The Chair of Commission III of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Habiburokhman, has praised the rapid response of the Executive Body of Students (BEM) and the Family Association of Students (IKM) at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law to an alleged sexual violence case involving 16 students. By organising an open forum similar to a public hearing, the students promoted transparency and accountability on campus, allowing direct confrontation and expression of views. This initiative is seen as crucial for fostering a safe academic environment, ensuring fair accountability for perpetrators, and building public trust in handling violations in higher education.

BSI Maslahat Secures Third Position in Top of Mind for ZISWAF Institutions, Strengthening Its Role as a Public Donation Recommendation

BSI Maslahat, a national zakat and waqf institution, has achieved third place in the top of mind rankings for ZISWAF (zakat, infaq, sadaqah, and waqf) organisations in Indonesia, according to a recent survey by KTM Solutions involving over 1,100 respondents. This milestone underscores growing public awareness and trust, with donor satisfaction reaching 97%, positioning BSI Maslahat as a credible and recommended channel for Islamic philanthropy amid competition from established bodies like BAZNAS. The institution views this as an opportunity to expand its impact through innovative, transparent programmes that enhance economic empowerment, education, and social welfare for the nation.

Industry Minister Asserts Indonesia's Textile Industry is Not a Sunset Sector, Presents Evidence

Indonesia's Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, has firmly rejected claims that the national textile and textile products (TPT) industry is a declining "sunset" sector, suspecting such narratives are designed to justify increased textile imports. He highlighted the sector's stable performance, including a 3.55% growth in 2025, exports worth USD 12.08 billion with a USD 3.45 billion surplus, Rp20.23 trillion in investments, and absorption of 3.96 million workers, underscoring its resilience amid global challenges. The government, since the Jokowi era, has collaborated with industry players to implement adaptive policies, transforming the narrative to position TPT as a promising "sunrise" sector.

Minister Warns Indonesians Not to Undertake Hajj Without Official Visa: Risk of 10-Year Blacklist!

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has urged citizens to avoid travelling for Hajj without an official visa, citing stricter checks by Saudi authorities that could result in detention, fines, deportation, or a 10-year blacklist from entering the kingdom. Reports indicate around 1,000 Indonesians have been stopped or detained this year due to improper visas, such as tourist or work permits. This comes amid Saudi Arabia's routine pre-Hajj restrictions on access to Mecca to ensure safe and orderly pilgrimage operations for 1447 H/2026.

MUI's Advice for the Hajj "Inheritance Ticket" Scheme to Remain Based on Justice

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has advised the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to ensure that the proposed "inheritance ticket" scheme for Hajj prioritises justice, particularly by considering long-time registrants and preventing potential loopholes like scalping. While acknowledging positive aspects related to pilgrims' financial capabilities, MUI emphasises the need for comprehensive studies on regulatory and financial implications before implementation. The council urges the ministry to prioritise the smooth conduct of the Hajj pilgrimage above all.

Police Ready to Crack Down on Illegal Hajj! Rogue Travel Agencies and Scammers Hunted by 2026 Hajj Task Force

Indonesian Police (Polri) have formed a joint task force with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to eradicate illegal Hajj practices ahead of 2026, focusing on protecting pilgrims from scams, ensuring security, and targeting rogue travel agencies. The initiative, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, involves preemptive education, preventive monitoring of travel operators, and repressive enforcement under relevant laws to guarantee a safe and lawful pilgrimage. This collaborative effort underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding Indonesian Hajj participants from fraudulent schemes and procedural violations.

Astra (ASII) Plans to Replace CEO and Proposes Dividend of This Amount

PT Astra International Tbk (ASII) will hold its Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on 23 April 2026 to discuss the use of net profit, dividend distribution, and changes to the board of directors and commissioners. The company recorded consolidated net profit of Rp32.76 trillion and proposes a cash dividend of Rp390 per share, including an interim dividend of Rp98 per share already paid, with the remainder of Rp292 per share scheduled for May 2026. Additionally, major shareholder Jardine Cycle & Carriage Limited has nominated new appointees, including Rudy as President Director and Prijono Sugiarto as President Commissioner, alongside proposals for commissioner remuneration up to Rp2.16 billion per month.

Purbaya to Revise Restitution Rules: Effective in Preventing State Leaks?

The Indonesian government plans to introduce stricter tax restitution rules effective from 1 May 2026, aiming to limit overpayment refunds to a maximum of three months for income tax and one month for VAT to curb potential state revenue leaks. However, tax consultant Raden Agus Suparman warns that without internal process reforms at the Directorate General of Taxes, these timelines may not be met due to lengthy administrative procedures, and suggests using Compliance Risk Management to fast-track compliant taxpayers while scrutinising high-risk ones. Tax expert Fajry Akbar highlights concerns that delays in restitution could disrupt business liquidity, raise consumer prices, and deter foreign investment, making Indonesia less competitive than neighbours like Vietnam.

Trend of shopping for local products rises, e-commerce provides UMKM curation

A growing trend of Indonesians embracing local products, driven by national pride and accessible online shopping, is boosting micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM). According to a Jakpat 2025 survey, 95% of respondents are confident in buying local goods, with food and beverages leading at 79%, followed by fashion and beauty items. Shopee has launched a curated "Shopee Pilih Lokal" section to enhance visibility and accessibility of these products, potentially strengthening the domestic market.

Middle East War: Prabowo to Proceed with Hajj Pilgrimage Departure Unless Prohibited by Saudi Arabia

Amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the Minister of Hajj and Umrah to prioritise the safety of Hajj pilgrims, with the first group scheduled to depart for Saudi Arabia on 22 April 2026. The president affirmed that Indonesia will proceed with the pilgrimage unless explicitly prohibited by the Saudi government, emphasising security in travel, stay, and logistics. Officials are finalising visas and aiming to ensure no seats remain empty by addressing potential health issues among pilgrims.

OJK Emphasises SLIK Relaxation Not Intended to Avoid NPL Records

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) in Bali has clarified that the relaxation of the Financial Information Service System (SLIK) policy, which excludes loans under Rp1 million from default records, is designed to facilitate the government's three million homes programme rather than evade non-performing loan (NPL) notations. This measure supports easier access to subsidised housing credit (KPR) for individuals with minor credit issues, while maintaining overall credit quality, as evidenced by declining NPL ratios nationally and in Bali. The policy update also includes faster data processing and prioritisation of subsidised housing guarantees to accelerate homeownership for the public.

Faizal Assegaf Reports KPK Spokesperson Budi Prasetyo to KPK Supervisory Board over Alleged Ethics Violation

Faizal Assegaf, a director of PT Sinkos Multimedia Mandiri and 1998 activist, has filed a complaint with the KPK's Supervisory Board against spokesperson Budi Prasetyo for allegedly breaching the ethics code by using the agency's facilities to shape inaccurate public opinion. Assegaf denies claims of seizure by KPK investigators, asserting that he voluntarily handed over items unrelated to a corruption case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, and he had previously reported Prasetyo to Metro Jaya Police for defamation during media statements. This incident underscores tensions between public figures and anti-corruption institutions, highlighting issues of transparency and accountability in law enforcement communications.

At MK Hearing, UGM Expert Reveals Issues with Military Judiciary Law

Constitutional law expert Zainal Arifin Mochtar from UGM highlighted fundamental flaws in Indonesia's 1997 Military Judiciary Law during a Constitutional Court hearing, describing it as a product of the New Order era laden with regime interests that create jurisdictional dualism, lack of reform alignment, and concerns over independence. He argued that the challenged articles grant overly broad jurisdiction to military courts, potentially conflicting with equality before the law and constitutional principles, and urged the court to push for a new law to address long-standing injustices. The lawsuit, filed by families of victims of military personnel crimes, underscores ongoing issues in military justice that have reproduced repeated unfairness for over two decades.