The price of Antam precious metal gold has risen sharply to Rp 2,893,000 per gram on Wednesday, marking a Rp 30,000 increase from the previous day and following a Rp 45,000 gain on Tuesday. The buyback price also strengthened to Rp 2,674,000 per gram, up Rp 35,000. This upward movement aligns with global gold prices, which closed at US$4,840.34 per troy ounce on Tuesday after a 2.13% surge, though it saw a slight dip today.

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has introduced new policies for the Financial Information Services System (SLIK), limiting the display of credit or financing history to amounts exceeding Rp1 million, accelerating loan repayment status updates to a maximum of three working days, and granting access to BP Tapera. PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) supports these changes, viewing them as well-studied regulatory adjustments, while emphasising that banks retain control over risk assessments and will continue using SLIK data alongside other factors for comprehensive evaluations. These reforms, set to take effect by late June 2026, aim to streamline housing financing applications and enhance efficiency in the financial sector.

Political analyst Saiful Mujani, Nahdlatul Ulama activist Islah Bahrawi, and sociologist Ubedilah Badrun have been reported to the police for alleged incitement against the authorities following their public criticisms of President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka's administration. The reports stem from statements perceived as calls to overthrow the government and labelling the leadership as a burden on the nation, raising concerns about freedom of expression and the potential erosion of democratic principles in Indonesia. Mujani has responded by arguing that such legal actions against opinions could signal a slide towards fascism, advocating instead for counter-criticism rather than police involvement.

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has urged operators of ready-to-drink beverage businesses, particularly large-scale restaurants, to begin implementing nutri-level labelling on menus ahead of the mandatory regulation starting 14 April 2026. This system classifies drinks into four colour-coded levels (A to D) based on sugar content, aiming to educate consumers on nutritional values and promote healthier choices by identifying high-sugar products. The policy initially targets large industries, exempting SMEs, and extends to salt and fat labelling to facilitate informed daily consumption decisions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed frustration over the United States' reduced focus on the Ukraine-Russia conflict due to the ongoing war in Iran, which has disrupted peace negotiations and delayed weapons deliveries. He highlighted that key US negotiators, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are preoccupied with talks involving Iran, leading to a slowdown in supplies like PAC-3 and PAC-2 interceptor missiles essential for Ukraine's air defence. As the Russia-Ukraine war enters its fifth year, Zelensky warned that without sustained pressure on Russia, the conflict could prolong, exacerbating the already devastating toll of hundreds of thousands of military and civilian deaths.

Indonesia's National Border Management Agency (BNPP) organised a two-day training programme on 14-15 April 2026 in Motaain, Belu Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur, to enhance the skills of micro-entrepreneurs in the tie-dye weaving sector, focusing on technical improvements and product innovation to boost competitiveness. This initiative aligns with the President's sixth Asta Cita mandate to promote economic equity and poverty alleviation from the grassroots level, involving cross-sector collaborations with entities like BAZNAS, Pertamina Foundation, Bank Rakyat Indonesia, and local government. By providing ongoing support including marketing assistance, BNPP aims to transform local tie-dye products into high-value commodities that strengthen border communities' economic resilience and welfare.

WhatsApp is trialling a new username feature that allows users to communicate without sharing their phone numbers, enhancing privacy by providing an alternative identifier for initiating conversations. Currently in beta on Android and iOS, the feature requires usernames to meet specific formatting rules and remains supplementary to the existing phone number-based registration system. While integration with Facebook and Instagram accounts is possible, no official release date has been announced, potentially offering users greater control over incoming messages.

The Indonesian rupiah opened stronger against the US dollar on Wednesday morning, appreciating by 0.06% to Rp17,100 per dollar, reversing the previous session's slight weakening amid a global decline in the dollar's value. This movement is influenced by hopes of renewed US-Iran negotiations, easing geopolitical tensions that have closed the Strait of Hormuz and spiked oil prices, alongside positive economic projections for Indonesia from the Asian Development Bank forecasting 5.2% growth in 2026 and 2027. The rupiah's resilience highlights Indonesia's economic stability amid global pressures, supported by domestic policy affirmations from Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto.

The Constitutional Court's decision to potentially reduce the presidential threshold to 0% could lead to a surge in presidential candidates for the 2029 election, raising concerns about voter confusion. However, political observers argue that while this might initially produce many nominees, political dynamics and coalition formations will likely consolidate the field to just 3-4 serious contenders. They emphasise that logistical and financial challenges will deter smaller parties from fielding candidates, preventing an overwhelming number of options.

Indonesian Labour Minister Yassierli has called on the Occupational Safety and Health Offices (Balai K3) to adopt a more proactive approach in preventing workplace accidents, emphasising the need for robust promotional and preventive measures to significantly reduce fatalities. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with private entities, including Occupational Safety and Health Service Companies (PJK3), and enhancing the managerial and analytical skills of staff to inform effective policies. This initiative aims to foster a stronger culture of safety, ensuring not only technical compliance but also broader protection for workers and their families.

The Indonesian National Police's Traffic Corps has introduced a flexible policy allowing owners of used vehicles to pay annual taxes without needing the previous owner's ID card, addressing public complaints about cumbersome administrative requirements. This interim measure requires only the original vehicle registration, current owner's ID, and proof of transaction, with vehicle ownership transfer encouraged by next year. The policy aims to ensure smooth public services while maintaining legal compliance, particularly easing burdens for those with vehicles that have changed hands multiple times.

The Saudi Arabian government has announced stringent penalties for individuals performing Hajj without permission and those facilitating illegal pilgrims, effective from 18 April 2026 until the end of the Hajj season. Fines can reach up to SR 100,000 (approximately Rp 425 million) for providers of accommodation or transport to visa holders attempting unauthorised pilgrimage, with penalties doubling based on the number of people assisted, alongside deportation and vehicle seizures. These measures aim to ensure the smooth conduct of the official Hajj and the safety of legitimate pilgrims, underscoring Saudi Arabia's commitment to regulating one of Islam's holiest rituals amid concerns over illegal activities.

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened stronger on Wednesday, rising 74 points or 0.98% to 7,750, buoyed by gains across Asia-Pacific markets amid ongoing optimism for a potential US-Iran agreement despite tensions. Analysts predict the JCI could push towards 7,750-7,800 but warn of possible minor corrections, with support at 7,500-7,600. This positive sentiment is echoed in Wall Street's advances, driven by statements from US President Donald Trump and White House officials indicating continued negotiations.

The Indonesian government is advancing plans to import crude oil from Russia following high-level discussions between President Prabowo Subianto and President Vladimir Putin, with Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirming positive outcomes from bilateral talks with his Russian counterpart Sergey Tsivilev. Pertamina has affirmed that its refineries are capable of processing Russian crude into refined products like fuel, supporting national energy needs through government-to-government and business-to-business arrangements. This collaboration extends to liquefied petroleum gas supplies, storage facilities, and potential investments in nuclear energy and minerals, bolstering Indonesia's energy security amid global uncertainties.

The Sulawesi Tenggara Regional Office of the Directorate General of Corrections has taken decisive action against a corruption convict, Supriadi, who went viral for visiting a coffee shop in Kendari while under escort. Investigations revealed that the accompanying officer failed to prevent the inmate from stopping for coffee after a court session, resulting in disciplinary sanctions for the officer and transfer to isolation for the inmate. This incident underscores ongoing challenges in maintaining strict oversight of prisoners during official outings, prompting swift internal probes and penalties.

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) opened higher by 1.16% at 7,765.13, reflecting regional Asian market gains amid hopes for a ceasefire in the Iran-US-Israel conflict. The IMF has downgraded its global growth forecast to 3.1% for 2026 due to escalating Middle East tensions and surging energy prices, with Indonesia's economy projected to grow at a steady 5.0%. This rally underscores investor optimism for diplomatic progress, despite broader economic uncertainties from prolonged conflict and higher-for-longer interest rates.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a historic recruitment milestone for the US military, with the Air Force and Space Force exceeding their FY26 targets five months early, surpassing last year's records. This comes amid escalating tensions, as the US and Israel recently struck targets in Iran, prompting Iranian retaliation against Israel and US facilities in the Middle East. Following failed negotiations in Islamabad, President Trump ordered a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz starting Monday, directing the US Navy to intercept ships paying tolls for passage.

Cluster housing in Indonesia, characterised by a single gate system, originated as exclusive residential developments for limited groups, such as those near golf courses, and has evolved into a widespread marketing strategy by developers to add value to properties. The one-gate system enhances security through 24-hour surveillance and restricted access, while also providing a quieter environment free from public traffic and fostering a sense of prestige among residents. This concept underscores the growing trend towards gated communities that prioritise exclusivity and safety in urban housing.

The investigation into allegations of sexual harassment by 16 male students at the Faculty of Law, University of Indonesia (FH UI), involving verbal abuse against 20 female students and 7 female lecturers since 2025, is ongoing through UI's Task Force for the Prevention and Handling of Violence. Victims' lawyer Timotius Rajagukguk has called for the expulsion of the perpetrators, highlighting the psychological trauma endured by victims, while a student forum resulted in the dean committing to severe sanctions, potentially including dismissal. This case has drawn significant attention from the academic community, student body, and lawmakers, underscoring the need to address and eradicate normalized misogyny in educational institutions.

Indonesian Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf (Gus Irfan), has announced a temporary halt to discussions on the 'ticket war' system for Hajj bookings, a proposal he initially championed to eliminate long waiting times for pilgrims. The decision comes during a meeting with the DPR RI's Commission VIII, with the ministry now prioritising the upcoming 2026 Hajj embarkation scheduled for late May. This progressive idea, aimed at allowing financially and physically ready pilgrims to register and depart in the same year, is being paused as too premature amid immediate operational needs.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined two officials from the Supreme Court (MA) as witnesses in the ongoing investigation into a bribery case involving Depok District Court judges over a land dispute in Tapos, Depok. This follows a February 2026 sting operation that resulted in the arrest and charging of five individuals, including the chief and deputy chief of the Depok court, for alleged corruption and gratification in handling a 6,500 square metre land dispute. The case highlights persistent corruption risks within Indonesia's judicial system, with one suspect also facing separate gratification charges involving Rp2.5 billion.

The National Border Management Agency (BNPP) of Indonesia held a two-day intensive training programme on 14-15 April 2026 at the Motaain State Border Crossing in Belu Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, aimed at enhancing the technical skills and creativity of local ikat weavers to boost micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative, aligned with the sixth pillar of President Prabowo's Asta Cita vision for equitable economic development from the grassroots level, includes ongoing mentorship up to marketing to ensure products gain high added value and competitiveness. By partnering with entities such as BAZNAS, Pertamina Foundation, Bank Rakyat Indonesia, and local government, BNPP seeks to foster an inclusive economic ecosystem in border areas, elevating traditional Belu ikat weaving as a culturally and economically significant commodity for cross-border markets including Timor Leste.

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) closed higher by 2.34% at 7,675.95, driven by strong performances from blue-chip stocks like MORA, BBCA, and BREN, despite net selling by foreign investors. Sector-wise, infrastructure led gains while consumer cyclical declined, buoyed by positive global sentiment from US market optimism over a potential US-Iran deal. Corporate updates include Transkon Jaya's expansion plans with promising financial projections and Matahari Putra Prima's rights issue to fund property acquisitions, alongside stock recommendations from Mega Capital Sekuritas.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, where discussions focused on energy cooperation to bolster Indonesia's national energy resilience, alongside geopolitical developments and economic ties. Prabowo noted rapid progress in previously agreed strategic partnerships across various sectors, with productive talks involving Russian officials and companies, though some areas require acceleration under his direct attention. Putin expressed satisfaction with the substantive bilateral meeting, emphasising the meaningful implementation of the strategic partnership declaration between the two nations.

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is probing claims that inactive Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo extorted school principals and sub-district heads by imposing price tags on their positions. Following a sting operation on 10 April 2026 that resulted in 18 arrests, including the regent and his brother, KPK named Gatut and his aide as suspects in a case involving extortion and other receipts worth up to Rp2.7 billion from local government officials. The agency is seeking public support to deepen the investigation into this modus operandi, which involved signed, undated resignation letters to coerce payments.

President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia met with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace in Paris for bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening ties and addressing global challenges, including the Iran-US-Israel conflict. The meeting, which included a private tete-a-tete and a formal banquet, underscored high-level diplomacy to foster personal relations and partnerships between the two nations. This visit follows Prabowo's earlier engagements in Paris and his recent talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting Indonesia's active role in international diplomacy.

Construction has begun on extending platforms 6, 7, and 8 at Bogor Station to accommodate longer train sets, aiming to improve capacity amid high passenger volumes. However, commuters are voicing frustration over the absence of adequate canopies, which leaves them exposed to rain and intense heat, a persistent issue despite repeated requests. This underscores the need for holistic improvements in passenger facilities to enhance comfort and usability at this key commuter hub.

Major Indonesian banks Bank Mandiri, BNI, and BRI have set varying minimum balance requirements for their savings products effective April 2026, ranging from as low as Rp5,000 for inclusive financial schemes like SimPel to Rp1,000,000 for business-oriented accounts. These balances serve as buffers to cover administrative fees and differ based on customer segments, with lower thresholds for students and financial inclusion programmes and higher ones for business products. This policy reflects banks' strategies to balance accessibility with operational needs in Indonesia's banking sector.

Indonesia's Home Minister Tito Karnavian has suggested that the recent arrests of several regional heads by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) may be linked to systemic issues in the direct regional election (Pilkada) system, which he believes fails to guarantee the selection of ethical and competent leaders. He acknowledged the positive aspects of direct elections but highlighted the negative impacts, including high political costs that allow potentially corrupt individuals to win. Tito pointed to the latest case involving Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo as part of a broader pattern of corruption cases among elected officials, underscoring problems with recruitment mechanisms, welfare, morality, and integrity.

House of Representatives Commission III Chairman Habiburokhman has praised the swift response of the Executive Board of Students (BEM) and Student Family Association (IKM) at the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law (FHUI) in addressing an alleged sexual harassment case involving 16 students in a chat group, by organising an open forum akin to a public hearing where perpetrators apologised directly to victims. University of Indonesia officials have initiated a victim-centred investigation through their Sexual Violence Prevention and Handling Task Force, emphasising that verbal sexual violence is a serious violation, while the faculty has imposed initial organisational sanctions by revoking active membership status for involved students. This incident highlights the importance of institutional accountability and rapid, transparent action in handling sexual violence on campus, potentially setting a precedent for fair resolution and perpetrator responsibility.

Indonesia is advancing coal downstreaming initiatives through PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA), aiming to transform 9 million tonnes of coal into synthetic natural gas (SNG) with a capacity of 237 BBTUD to provide an alternative gas supply from South Sumatra to West Java. PTBA will form a joint venture with PT Perusahaan Gas Negara Tbk (PGN) as the sole off-taker. Additionally, PTBA is developing a coal-to-dimethyl ether (DME) project with a capacity of 1.4 million tonnes as a substitute for imported LPG, where PTBA acts as operator and coal supplier, with Pertamina as the off-taker, potentially increasing value by 4.3 times.

The Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga)/BKKBN has called on the public to cease normalising sexual jokes that demean women, particularly in response to a case of sexual harassment in a student WhatsApp group at the Faculty of Law, University of Indonesia. Secretary Budi Setiyono highlighted that such jokes, often driven by peer pressure, can perpetuate a culture of sexual violence that extends from digital spaces to real-world actions, causing psychological harm and undermining academic integrity. He stressed the need for collective action to address and prevent the escalation of this phenomenon.

Indonesian Labour Minister Yassierli has emphasised that workers' safety cannot be compromised, urging Occupational Safety and Health (OHS) centres to adopt a more proactive role in preventing workplace accidents through intensified promotional and preventive measures. During a visit to the Jakarta OHS Centre, he called for enhanced collaboration with private entities, including Occupational Safety and Health Service Companies (PJK3), and the development of comprehensive skills among OHS inspectors, including risk management and statistics, to drive down fatality rates significantly. This directive underscores the government's push for a stronger safety culture and policy-oriented leadership within labour protection frameworks to foster safer work environments nationwide.

PT Darma Henwa Tbk (DEWA) is planning an initial public offering (IPO) for its subsidiary Gayo Mineral Resources (GMR) to fund the development of gold and copper exploration assets in Aceh, with commercial operations targeted for 2029. The company aims to evolve into an investment holding firm, expanding beyond coal into other minerals like nickel and bauxite, amid strong financial performance including a 519% year-on-year profit surge to Rp239.14 billion in 2025. Analysts at Samuel Sekuritas recommend buying DEWA shares with a target price of Rp800, citing improved earnings projections.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned four witnesses on 14 April 2026 to further investigate the tax audit of PT Wanatiara Persada, focusing on land and building tax processes for plantations, forestry, oil and gas mining, and minerals and coal. This examination is part of an ongoing bribery probe at the North Jakarta Medium Tax Office from 2021 to 2026, following a January 2026 sting operation that led to five arrests, including tax officials and a company staff member accused of offering a Rp4 billion bribe to reduce the company's tax liability from Rp75 billion to Rp15.7 billion. The case highlights persistent corruption risks in Indonesia's tax administration, particularly in the mining sector, potentially affecting revenue collection and public trust in fiscal governance.

PT Mirae Asset Sekuritas Indonesia is planning to transform its services into a comprehensive wealth management offering by early Q3 2026, aiming to provide integrated investment solutions for retail clients, particularly high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). The initiative involves consolidating existing platforms like HOTS, Neo HOTS, M-STOCK, and NAVI into a single seamless application, while enhancing advisory services to deliver a 'retail with private banking feel' experience, without entering traditional banking activities such as deposit-taking or lending. This expansion seeks to shift perceptions of the firm beyond mere stock trading, targeting 500,000 retail clients by the end of 2026 and capitalising on the growing domestic wealth management market.

After nearly a year of skyrocketing prices driven by the AI boom, RAM prices for DDR4 and DDR5 are finally showing signs of decline, with spot prices for 16GB DDR4 dropping 5% to around $74.10 USD and DDR5 to $37.20 USD, though still significantly higher than last year. Sharp drops of up to 30% in China's retail market and on Amazon stem from distributors offloading stockpiles amid weakening demand from home PC users and small vendors unable to absorb high costs. Recent announcements from Google may further influence this trend, presenting a potential opportunity for PC builders.

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has confirmed plans to delist 18 issuers on 10 November 2026, primarily due to bankruptcy or prolonged trading suspensions exceeding 50 months, posing significant risks to retail investors who may lose their entire investments. Despite regulatory safeguards like special monitoring boards and encouraged buybacks under OJK rules, experts warn that financially weak companies often fail to implement these measures effectively, leaving investors unprotected. Retail investors are urged to heed early warning signs such as entry into regulatory watchlists, declining fundamentals, and thinning liquidity to evaluate and potentially exit positions before it's too late, rather than chasing seemingly cheap stocks without due diligence.

PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN) is providing a 50% discount on electricity capacity increases under the "Power Up Real" programme, valid from 15 to 28 April 2026, for all customer tariff groups who were subscribers before 1 April 2026. Eligible customers must settle all outstanding bills and pay the full connection fee without instalments, with the discount claimable through official PLN channels. This initiative supports energy accessibility but includes restrictions, such as no capacity reduction requests for one year unless under normal conditions.

The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) has disclosed that the number of inactive bank accounts has reached 50,000, with growth slowing to around 9% annually. LPS Commissioner Chairman Anggito Abimanyu emphasised that the primary concern is preventing misuse of these accounts rather than their sheer volume, noting that inactivity often stems from limited usage needs. This comes amid robust third-party fund growth of 13.83% year-on-year through the end of 2025, outpacing credit expansion, highlighting ongoing regulatory vigilance by LPS and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to mitigate potential risks.

A recent extortion incident at a warteg in South Bekasi has been described by social observer Mohammad Zaki Arrobi as more than just criminal activity, highlighting deeper urban socio-economic problems stemming from limited job opportunities and inequality. He emphasises that the prevalence of thuggery depends on law enforcement's seriousness, with public trust influencing reporting rates and social media often amplifying calls for justice under the "no viral no justice" banner. Zaki notes that both victims and perpetrators typically come from vulnerable lower-class backgrounds, with small businesses like street vendors and warungs being prime targets.

Over 20 commercial vessels, including cargo ships, container ships, and tankers, have navigated the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours despite the US-imposed blockade on Iranian ports, as reported by The Wall Street Journal citing US officials. The blockade, effective from Monday, aims to intercept ships paying Iran for passage, following failed negotiations in Islamabad that were intended to secure a two-week ceasefire but collapsed without agreement. This development underscores escalating US-Iran tensions, potentially disrupting global oil trade routes through the vital strait.

KAI Commuter has temporarily closed platforms 6, 7, and 8 at Bogor Station starting 15 April 2026 for 90 days to support railway infrastructure development, specifically track extension to accommodate 12-car KRL formations. During this period, passengers will be served only on platforms 2-3 and 4-5, potentially leading to queues and overcrowding for those heading to Jakarta. Alternatives include the Transjabodetabek service to Blok M and the Jabodetabek Residence Connexion bus, providing viable public transport options to mitigate disruptions.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the job mutation processes of suspects involved in a bribery case concerning land dispute management at the Depok District Court in West Java. On Tuesday, KPK examined two witnesses from the Supreme Court’s Directorate General of General Judicial Administration regarding the transfers of these officials. The case stems from a 2023 court ruling favouring PT Karabha Digiday, under the Ministry of Finance, which led to bribery allegations when execution was delayed amid community appeals.

PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk (EMAS) has obtained a US$150 million (Rp2.56 trillion) credit facility from a consortium of banks, including Kasikornbank, BCA, CIMB Niaga, Danamon, and Maspion Indonesia, to finance its integrated mining operations and expansion projects. The facility, with a tenor until April 2028, enhances the company's financial flexibility amid high capital expenditure needs in the mining sector, despite reporting a net loss of US$27.49 million in 2025 following a 92.46% drop in revenue. This move underscores EMAS's access to external financing, supporting ongoing exploration, production, and mineral processing activities as total assets grew 39.82% year-on-year to US$740.63 million.

The United States faces international isolation as no country has supported its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz aimed at pressuring Iran, with allies in the region and Europe rejecting President Donald Trump's desperate action. Saudi Arabia has urged the US to return to negotiations, fearing escalation that could lead the Houthis to close the Bab al-Mandab Strait and further disrupt energy markets. China has strongly condemned the blockade, warning it undermines international law and navigation security, while Iran threatens retaliation against any threats to its ports.

Indonesia's Social Minister Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul) has issued strict guidelines for the upcoming admissions process at People's Schools, emphasising data-driven outreach via the National Social and Economic Welfare Database (DTSEN) over open registrations to ensure aid reaches the most vulnerable. He warned against any form of nepotism, external interference, or data manipulation, while stressing the creation of safe, inclusive environments free from violence and intolerance, with severe penalties for violations. Officials also highlighted the programme's focus on accessibility for the poorest segments of society and preparations for transitioning to permanent school facilities by mid-2026.

This compilation highlights key Indonesian news stories, including the University of Indonesia's serious investigation into alleged verbal sexual harassment involving law faculty students, and the government's plan to purchase Russian crude oil, which Pertamina confirms its refineries can process. Other notable updates cover BMKG's forecast of a drier and longer dry season in 2026, and initial estimates of Rp4.6 quadrillion in damages from US-Israel attacks on Iran. These developments underscore ongoing social issues in education and Indonesia's strategic moves in energy security amid global tensions.

Over 500 chairmen of regional legislative councils (DPRD) from provinces, regencies, and cities throughout Indonesia are participating in a five-day retreat at the Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang, starting on 15 April 2026, organised by the National Resilience Institute (Lemhannas) and the Ministry of Home Affairs. The intensive programme focuses on enhancing leadership capacities, national insight, and strategies for regional development to support national policies amid complex governance challenges. The Magelang City Government is providing comprehensive support, including infrastructure readiness, health services, security, and traffic management, to ensure the event's smooth execution.

The Chairman of the Indonesian Furniture and Handicraft Industries Association (HIMKI), Abdul Sobur, has stressed the need for targeted policies to safeguard the competitiveness of Indonesia's furniture and handicraft sector amid rising energy costs and global geopolitical pressures. He highlighted challenges such as supply chain disruptions and export liquidity issues, which particularly affect labour-intensive downstream industries with limited pricing flexibility in global markets. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Industry aims to position Indonesia as a global furniture manufacturing hub through sustainable wood downstreaming initiatives and equipment restructuring programmes that have already boosted production efficiency and productivity in participating firms.