Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 15 April 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,595 articles

3 Million Houses Programme Drives 185 Industries and Absorbs Workforce

The Indonesian government's 3 Million Houses Programme is projected to stimulate the national economy by involving 185 derivative industries, from micro-enterprises to large corporations, creating a multiplier effect and massive job absorption. It boosts upstream sectors like cement, steel, ceramics, and bricks, while downstream benefits include furniture, electronics, interior design, insurance, and banking, with each house construction involving five to seven workers directly or indirectly. This initiative fosters a new economic ecosystem, generating real job opportunities for professionals in construction and related fields, including informal sector workers.

Government Reviews Revision of Electricity Supply Business Plan for 2025-2034

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is examining revisions to the Electricity Supply Business Plan (RUPTL) for 2025-2034 to enhance flexibility and align with national energy needs, amid efforts to transition from diesel power plants to solar and geothermal sources. This initiative, prioritised by the Prabowo-Gibran administration, aims to ensure adaptive regulations for technological advancements and long-term electricity security, targeting an additional 69.5 GW capacity, with 42.6 GW from renewable energy. The revisions underscore Indonesia's commitment to energy sovereignty and sustainable infrastructure development in the face of geopolitical challenges.

Rupiah Weakens, CPO Strengthens: Double Profit for Indonesian Palm Oil Entrepreneurs

The weakening of the Indonesian rupiah against the US dollar is providing a dual benefit to palm oil entrepreneurs, enhancing their export revenues in local currency terms amid robust export performance. In 2025, palm oil exports surged to 32.343 million tonnes valued at $35.868 million, marking a 9.51% volume increase and 29% value rise from 2024, with significant growth to markets like Africa, China, and Bangladesh despite declines to India, the EU, and the US. This trend underscores the resilience of Indonesia's palm oil sector, a key export driver, in navigating currency fluctuations and shifting global demand.

Calls for Dropout of Sexual Harassment Perpetrator at UI Law Faculty: Psychologist's View

A clinical psychologist from the University of Indonesia has emphasised that while calls for the dropout of a student accused of verbal sexual harassment at the UI Faculty of Law represent a firm disciplinary measure, sanctions alone are insufficient without cultural change and education to prevent recurrence. She advocates for comprehensive campus responses, including enhanced education on consent and communication ethics, optimised roles for sexual violence prevention task forces, safe reporting channels for victims, and fostering intolerance towards any form of harassment. The expert highlights the continuum of sexual violence, noting how seemingly minor verbal comments form part of a broader spectrum, exacerbated by digital complexities and societal normalisation of sexual jokes.

MPR speaker affirms Indonesia's non-alignment in US-Iran conflict

The Speaker of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Muzani, has reaffirmed the country's commitment to an independent and active foreign policy by refusing to take sides in the ongoing US-Iran conflict, emphasising diplomacy and peaceful resolutions during a meeting with Islamic boarding school leaders and the Saudi Arabian ambassador in Jakarta. This position aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's communications with Arab leaders and is supported by Islamic scholars who urge Indonesia to actively promote peace in the Middle East, in line with the 1945 Constitution's mandate. Muzani praised Saudi Arabia's restraint and expressed hope that ongoing negotiations, such as those in Islamabad, will continue to foster global stability through diplomacy, as they have since World War II.

Gaspol Today: Iran's Business in the Black Market

Former Indonesian Ambassador to Iran, Dian Wirengjurit, has revealed how Iran sustains its economy despite decades of US sanctions by selling oil on the black market. With domestic needs met by 1.5 million barrels, the surplus is traded covertly through European brokers and openly imported by China, funding defence capabilities and essential public services such as housing, food, health, and education. This strategy underscores Iran's resilience in evading economic embargoes to support both military and civilian needs.

To Compete with Starlink, Amazon Seeks Apple's Help

Amazon is intensifying efforts to challenge Elon Musk's Starlink by announcing a US$11.57 billion acquisition of Globalstar, securing its satellite operations, infrastructure, and spectrum licenses to build its own satellite-to-device system potentially launching in 2028. The company is also partnering with Apple to provide satellite connectivity for iPhone and Apple Watch features, leveraging Apple's existing 20% stake in Globalstar and its emergency SOS functionality. This move positions Amazon to expand high-speed, low-latency internet services, though it lags behind Starlink's over 10,000 satellites and 9 million users.

Indonesia seizes three vessels over illegal fishing

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has seized three foreign vessels caught using prohibited trawl gear in the Strait of Malacca, following patrols by surveillance ships Barracuda 01 and Hiu 01. The vessels, identified as PKFB 172, PKFB 1751, and PKFB 4790, were escorted to bases in Batam and Belawan for investigation, carrying mostly Indonesian crew with one having Myanmar nationals. This action underscores Indonesia's ongoing commitment to intensifying maritime surveillance to protect fisheries resources, sovereignty, and marine sustainability, having processed 39 vessels for violations from January to April 2026 and preventing losses of Rp69.9 billion.

House Commission IX Proposes Buffer Quota for PBI to Protect Vulnerable Groups

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission IX has proposed allocating a buffer quota for Penerima Bantuan Iuran (PBI) under the national health insurance scheme to cover vulnerable middle-income groups in deciles 5-6, addressing gaps where around 24 million people in lower deciles remain uncovered despite existing quotas. This initiative highlights the dynamic nature of poverty, exacerbated by sudden job losses or catastrophic health costs, and aims to expand coverage to 120-140 million beneficiaries. The Social Affairs Minister supports the proposal, contingent on fiscal capacity, while ongoing data verification ensures aid targets the truly needy.

Supporting business ecosystem, Law Minister emphasises collaboration with notaries

Indonesia's Ministry of Law and Human Rights (Kemenkum) has underscored the crucial role of notaries in their respective legal jurisdictions during a training and knowledge refreshment session held in Batam, Riau Islands, on Wednesday (15/4). Law Minister Supratman Andi Agtas highlighted the importance of nationwide collaboration between Kemenkum and notaries to improve legal data and developments related to companies. This initiative aims to bolster the business ecosystem through enhanced legal accuracy and cooperation.

Sandiaga Uno says Indonesia has bright prospects in the green economy

Businessman and investor Sandiaga Uno has expressed strong optimism about Indonesia's green economy, viewing it as a key driver for future national growth through innovation, green financing, and policy reforms that transform climate risks into economic opportunities. He highlights the potential to create jobs in areas such as clean energy, environmental management, low-carbon technology, and sustainable tourism, with studies estimating a long-term value of Rp3,000 to Rp4,000 trillion from renewable energy, carbon economy, and sustainable resource management. Uno urges the government to develop comprehensive regulations and incentives to fully harness these untapped prospects, particularly in carbon markets and emissions monitoring technologies.

251 Students Visit Palace to Learn About History and Government System

A group of 251 students from SMP Negeri 115 Jakarta visited the Presidential Palace Complex as part of the "Palace for School Children" programme, aimed at fostering young people's understanding of Indonesia's national history and government system. During the visit, they received briefings on managing natural resources and demographic bonuses, alongside introductions to key government initiatives like the Free Nutritious Meals, People's Schools, and Garuda Elite Schools programmes, which seek to enhance educational access for all Indonesian children. The interactive tour of historical sites and official rooms inspired the students and educators, promoting patriotism and motivation for national development.

Road in Nyikambang, Cilegon, Damaged for 25 Years, Set to Be Repaired

Residents of Kampung Nyikambang in Cilegon have endured a severely damaged road for 25 years, exacerbating flood risks and causing accidents, including a tragic miscarriage. Banten Governor Andra Soni has committed to repairing the 1.3 km stretch under the Bang Andra programme, with a Rp3.4 billion budget from the provincial APBD, aiming to enhance safety, connectivity to markets, schools, and hospitals. The initiative also addresses neglected irrigation channels through coordination with central government agencies to prevent recurring floods.

"Dividend Hunting" for BBRI Ahead of Cum Date: What Are the Prospects?

Retail investors are flocking to buy shares in PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BBRI) ahead of the cum date to capture its substantial dividend payout of Rp 346 per share for the 2025 fiscal year, totalling Rp 52.10 trillion. This practice, known as dividend hunting, raises questions about whether it represents rational strategy or mere short-term market euphoria, as highlighted by experts from Mirae Asset Sekuritas. While the interim dividend of Rp 137 per share was paid in January 2026, the final dividend of Rp 209 per share is scheduled for May 2026, underscoring BBRI's appeal in Indonesia's banking sector amid ongoing investor interest in high-yield stocks.

Plastic Raw Material Prices Become a Spectre for Industry, Industry Minister Responds Thus

Rising global energy prices are driving up the cost of plastic raw materials, posing significant challenges to Indonesia's industrial sector, particularly small industries vulnerable to production cost fluctuations. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita emphasised that the key issue is pricing rather than availability, pledging government efforts to stabilise prices through negotiations with producers and exploring alternative supplies. This intervention is crucial amid global supply chain disruptions exacerbated by Middle East conflicts, which could halt production without prompt action.

DKI Provincial Government to Conduct Mass Cleanup of Sailfin Catfish in Jakarta Rivers

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is set to launch a simultaneous mass removal of invasive sailfin catfish from the city's rivers across five administrative areas on Friday morning, prompted by lab findings revealing dangerous levels of heavy metals in the fish that pose health risks to humans. The operation, announced by Governor Pramono Anung, also aims to repair damaged river structures caused by the fish's destructive habits and to protect native species by eliminating threats to their eggs. In addition to targeting the invasive species, the initiative includes dredging sediment and normalising water channels to enhance the overall waterway system in Jakarta, building on previous successful captures in areas like Kali Cideng and Kali Ciliwung.

Rising Avtur Prices Drive Up Airfares, Bali at Risk of Losing Tourists

The surge in avtur fuel prices has led to higher airfares, posing a threat to Bali's tourism sector as visitors may delay or cancel trips due to increased travel costs. PHRI Bali highlights additional pressures from Middle East flight disruptions caused by the Iran-Israel-US conflict, which could reduce foreign tourist arrivals from key hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. To counter these challenges, the industry is adjusting prices to remain competitive while intensifying promotions targeting major markets such as Australia and the domestic sector, aiming for 16 million national visitors.

Indonesia's Ministry of Youth and Sports Ranks in Top 5 for Best Performance, Public Appreciates Flagship Programmes

Indonesia's Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora RI), led by Minister Erick Thohir, has been ranked among the top five best-performing ministries according to a national public opinion survey by Cyrus Network conducted in April 2026. The survey, involving 1,260 respondents across 38 provinces, highlights public satisfaction with Kemenpora's programmes aimed at empowering youth potential and enhancing national sports achievements. Minister Erick Thohir expressed gratitude for the recognition, committing to further improvements in public services and strategic initiatives to foster a patriotic and competitive younger generation on the global stage.

Pramono Reshuffles Officials, Asep Kuswanto No Longer Head of DKI Environmental Agency

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has inaugurated 11 high-ranking echelon II officials in a reshuffle aimed at filling strategic positions and enhancing government performance. Notably, Dudi Gardesi Asikin replaces Asep Kuswanto as Head of the DKI Jakarta Environmental Agency, with Kuswanto reassigned to Assistant Deputy Governor for Spatial Planning. The appointments, decided through discussions among Pramono, Deputy Governor Rano Karno, and Jakarta Secretary Uus Kuswanto using the civil servant talent management system, seek to eliminate acting positions and optimise administrative efficiency.

Securing 15 Global Awards, Indonesia's Environmental Innovations Garner Worldwide Acclaim

PT Pertamina EP, a subsidiary of Indonesia's state-owned energy giant, has achieved remarkable success by winning 15 international awards at The Green World Awards 2026 for its outstanding social responsibility and environmental programmes implemented across its Tambun, Subang, and Jatibarang fields. The awards, which include 10 Global Gold, 4 Global Silver, and 1 Commended recognition, highlight innovative initiatives such as community-based circular energy, sustainable water management, oil spill control using natural absorbents, agricultural empowerment for food security, and cultural heritage preservation. This accomplishment underscores Pertamina EP's leadership in sustainable practices, outshining dozens of multinational companies and reinforcing Indonesia's commitment to global environmental standards in the energy sector.

Labour Minister Reveals Strategies to Enhance the Quality of Indonesia's Digital Talent

Indonesian Labour Minister Yassierli has outlined strategies to address the shortage of digital talent, emphasising government programmes, industry collaborations, and curriculum development to boost competitiveness in the rapidly growing digital economy. He highlighted that Indonesia's digital economy is projected to reach nearly $100 billion by 2025, making it the largest in Southeast Asia, and stressed the importance of e-commerce and content-driven commerce skills. Additionally, Yassierli urged workers to adopt a growth mindset for continuous learning amid evolving industries, supported by national vocational training and internship initiatives to bridge the skills gap between education and industry needs.

To Save Local Industry, Electric Vehicle Policies Need Evaluation

A senior researcher from the Bandung Institute of Technology's Centre for Sustainable Transport Systems has urged the Indonesian government to dynamically evaluate its electric vehicle policies, as the growth of battery electric vehicles is not sufficiently supporting the domestic industrial base and risks undermining existing ecosystems. Current incentives and domestic component requirements favour new entrants without deeper investments, potentially leading to market cannibalisation of legacy internal combustion engine producers, especially amid declining consumer purchasing power. Drawing lessons from Thailand's challenges and successes in India and Vietnam, the expert emphasises that policies must evolve beyond initial adoption phases to enhance national automotive competitiveness.

Higher Education Minister Requests Transparency in Investigation of Sexual Harassment Case Involving UI Law Faculty Students

Indonesia's Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, has urged transparency and accountability in investigating allegations of sexual harassment involving 16 students from the University of Indonesia's Faculty of Law. The case, which gained traction on social media through explicit group chats, has prompted the university to condemn the behaviour and commit to potential sanctions, including expulsion, while coordinating with authorities if criminal elements are found. This response underscores the government's push for robust anti-violence task forces in universities to protect victims and ensure ethical standards in academia.

Iranian Embassy Thanks Indonesian People for Donations

The Iranian Embassy in Indonesia has expressed profound gratitude to the Indonesian public for raising over Rp9 billion in humanitarian donations to support the Iranian people. This initiative, which began on 17 March 2026 and will continue until 30 April 2026 via Bank BRI, has seen participation from 24,369 individuals, reflecting Indonesia's strong values of humanity and solidarity. The funds will be channeled through the Indonesian Red Cross to the Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran, underscoring the deepening bilateral ties through compassionate efforts.

BPOM Highlights Nutri-Level, ATMP in Health Policy Committee Coordination Meeting

Indonesia's National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) has spotlighted key health issues during the 9th Coordination Meeting of the Health Sector Policy Committee, including the implementation of Nutri-Level labelling to educate the public on limiting sugar, salt, and fat intake amid high rates of non-communicable diseases. Officials addressed the misuse of certain drugs like trihexyphenidyl and tramadol, particularly among youth, and the potential of natural medicine in the National Health Insurance system, while emphasising the need for synchronisation between central and local governments to enhance preventive healthcare. This meeting underscores ongoing efforts to tackle public health challenges through regulatory measures and multi-sectoral collaboration.

HIKMICRO Accelerates Expansion in the Industrial Instruments Market Segment Through the Launch of the LRG10 Series Radar Level Meter

HIKMICRO, a Chinese technology firm, has launched the LRG10 series radar level meter to bolster its presence in the global industrial instruments market, targeting sectors such as water management, food and beverages, petrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals. The device features advanced 80 GHz FMCW radar technology for high-precision measurements up to 120 metres, with AI-based false echo suppression ensuring reliability in challenging environments like dusty or volatile conditions. This release underscores HIKMICRO's commitment to affordable, high-performance solutions that support digital transformation in industrial operations, showcased at Hannover Messe 2026.

Airlangga Claims Unemployment Rate is Declining. What Do the Data Say?

Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto has claimed that Indonesia's economy is strong entering the second quarter of 2026, with improving indicators including a decline in the unemployment rate to 4.74% as of November 2025, down from previous periods, and the creation of 2.71 million new jobs throughout 2025. He also highlighted reductions in the Gini ratio and poverty rate to 8.25%, alongside controlled inflation and a 70-month trade surplus, bolstering economic growth foundations. However, while official BPS data confirms a slight drop in open unemployment, much of the employment growth involves part-time workers, raising questions about job quality.

Government's Plan to Shift Refined Sugar Raw Material Imports from Private Sector to SOEs Faces Protests, Here's Why

The Indonesian government plans to transfer the import of refined sugar raw materials from private companies to state-owned enterprises (BUMNs) to address leaks into the consumer market, mitigate losses for Sugar Co, and achieve sugar self-sufficiency, as discussed in a parliamentary hearing. Agricultural expert Khudori from the Indonesian Political Economy Association criticises the move, arguing it will add unnecessary marketing layers, inflate raw sugar prices, and ultimately burden consumers through higher costs in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. He highlights that sugar leaks stem from weak government oversight and inefficiencies in state-owned consumer sugar mills, drawing parallels to past failed self-sufficiency efforts in beef and soybeans.

Sandi Uno: Indonesia's Green Economy Becomes New Growth Engine, Investments Reach US$1 Trillion

Businessman Sandiaga Uno highlights Indonesia's vast potential in the green economy, driven by its rich natural resources and biodiversity, positioning it as a new growth engine amid a global shift towards mainstream sustainability practices. He notes that green investments have already reached US$1 trillion annually, equivalent to Indonesia's economy size, and urges the government to provide supportive regulations and incentives to attract more funding and create jobs. Additionally, Uno plans to join PT Mutuagung Lestari Tbk (MUTU), a testing and certification firm entering the green energy sector, to foster synergies and advance green ecosystems within his investment portfolio.

Purbaya Assures Investors: Indonesia's Fiscal Strategy is Credible and Sustainable

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that global investors' doubts about Indonesia's fiscal condition are easing following the government's proactive explanations during meetings in the United States. Discussions with major investors, international financial institutions like the IMF and World Bank, and rating agencies such as S&P Global Ratings highlighted Indonesia's commitment to balancing economic growth with fiscal sustainability, receiving largely positive responses. Amid global uncertainties, Purbaya emphasised the robustness of Indonesia's fiscal buffers and strong investor interest in portfolio investments, expressing optimism for future inflows to bolster the capital market.

East Java targets Ijen Geopark UNESCO status renewal

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has announced that Ijen Geopark, designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023, is undergoing a comprehensive revalidation process in 2026 to ensure it continues to meet international criteria for geological heritage conservation and sustainable development. The assessment will categorise the geopark's status as Green, Yellow, or Red Card, with the province aiming to secure a Green Card to boost tourism, attract investments, and foster local economic growth in Banyuwangi and Bondowoso districts. This effort underscores the geopark's role in community empowerment, education, cultural preservation, and environmental management, highlighting Indonesia's commitment to global sustainable heritage initiatives.

Vehicle Tax Payment Rules Without Original Owner's ID Apply in Central Java?

Central Java Police have not yet adopted West Java's policy allowing vehicle tax payments without the original owner's ID, instead requiring full documentation including the original owner's KTP as per Perpol No. 7 of 2021. Officials state that incomplete applications will be returned, ensuring verification through the Regident Ranmor system. This highlights ongoing regional variations in vehicle registration procedures across Indonesia.

Pramono Orders Removal of Sailfin Catfish from Jakarta's Rivers on Friday Morning

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has directed a coordinated cleanup of rivers and waterways across the city's five administrative areas on Friday morning, focusing on removing invasive sailfin catfish species. These fish, originating from South America, pose environmental risks by damaging riverbanks, preying on local fish and eggs, and accumulating high levels of toxins that make them unsafe for consumption. The initiative aims to restore ecological balance in Jakarta's waterways, addressing a problem that has also plagued their native habitats.

At Town Hall Meeting, Pramono Urges Proper Follow-Up on Citizens' Reports, Three PPSU Workers Receive SP1

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung hosted a town hall meeting to address deficiencies in public service delivery, particularly the misuse of AI-generated images to falsely resolve citizen complaints via the JAKI app. He emphasised the need for genuine follow-up on reports and warned against superficial efforts to please superiors, vowing to prevent such incidents from recurring. In response to the viral case in Kalisari, three PPSU workers have been issued SP1 warnings as part of efforts to improve accountability in public infrastructure management.

Internship Programme Hub to Reopen, Companies Get 'Bonus'

The Indonesian government plans to relaunch its six-month internship programme for fresh graduates, initially introduced in October 2025 as part of economic stimulus measures for 20,000 participants, amid ongoing job market disruptions. Officials highlight additional incentives for labour-intensive industries to boost employment and leverage the middle class as an economic driver, addressing the critical issue where even 5% economic growth absorbs only about 2 million workers, leaving 1.5 million jobless. This initiative underscores the government's proactive efforts to tackle youth unemployment and enhance workforce absorption in a challenging economic landscape.

Luxury Fashion Shares Plunge, Hermès Drops Double Digits Due to Middle East Conflict

Luxury fashion companies saw their shares weaken significantly on 15 April 2026, following disappointing first-quarter results impacted by the ongoing Middle East conflict, which reduced tourist flows and wholesale sales. Hermès reported €4.1 billion in sales but faced a 14% share drop, while Kering, owner of Gucci, recorded a 6% revenue decline to €3.57 billion, with Gucci sales falling 8%. The sector's challenges come after a post-pandemic boom, amid weakening consumer demand in key markets like China, prompting scrutiny of Kering's upcoming recovery strategies.

Indonesia recruits 5,476 staff for coastal villages under KNMP Programme

Indonesia is recruiting 5,476 staff members for coastal villages as part of the KNMP Programme, with Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan emphasising a transparent and accountable process free from nepotism or fees, accessible only via the official website. Candidates require an associate, applied bachelor's, or bachelor's degree in any field, with a maximum age of 35 and minimum GPA of 2.75, and will be employed on two-year contracts by state-owned firm PT Agrinas Jaladri Nusantara, prioritising local applicants. This initiative targets key roles in management, production, quality assurance, and finance to support the completion of village development projects across 1,300 locations by year's end, enhancing food security and rural empowerment.

Dominated by Children and Elderly, South Jakarta Health Office Handles 8,600 ISPA Cases

South Jakarta's Health Sub-District Office managed over 8,600 cases of Acute Respiratory Tract Infection (ISPA) in 2025, predominantly affecting children and the elderly due to their lower immunity. Officials emphasised the importance of clean and healthy living habits, the Germas movement, and community education to prevent further cases, with plans to expand awareness campaigns across 10 sub-districts. Provincial data recorded 2.5 million ISPA cases in Jakarta from January to November 2025, highlighting the need for ongoing collaboration between local government, health centres, and communities to reduce incidence rates.

Rismon Insists Video of Rp5 Billion JK is AI-Generated: I Am the Victim

Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar has firmly stated that a circulating video clip falsely depicting former Vice President Jusuf Kalla as the financier behind allegations of President Joko Widodo's fake diploma is an artificial intelligence fabrication, with himself as the victim. He clarified that the clip was manipulated from his own YouTube video uploaded on 11 March 2026, and denied any involvement in its creation or content, urging authorities to apprehend the perpetrators. This comes after JK reported Rismon to police for alleged hoax spreading and defamation, highlighting tensions amid ongoing political controversies surrounding Jokowi's credentials.

BGN Head: 62 Poor Meals Go Viral, Thousands of Other SPPG Units Run Well

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, stated that out of approximately 25,000 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) operating during Ramadan, only 62 cases of substandard meals gained viral attention, while the majority continue to provide quality services. He urged the public and partners to highlight positive stories from beneficiaries to offer a balanced view of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, which now reaches around 62 million vulnerable individuals, including pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and toddlers. BGN is committed to ongoing evaluations to ensure the programme's quality and sustainability, emphasising the role of community involvement in maintaining public trust.

WIKA Tops Off Construction of RSJPD Harapan Kita-Tokushukai

PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA), through the PP-WIKA consortium, has marked a key milestone by topping off the structure of the new RSJPD Harapan Kita-Tokushukai Building, a collaborative project between Indonesia's Ministry of Health and Japan's Tokushukai Medical Corporation aimed at creating Southeast Asia's largest cardiovascular care centre. The 20-storey facility, set for completion by the end of 2026, will enhance Indonesia's healthcare infrastructure with advanced medical technology, aligning with government goals to improve equitable, world-class health services and reduce the need for overseas treatment. This development underscores strengthening bilateral ties in health advancements and WIKA's commitment to national infrastructure projects.

Passport Collection Can Be Delegated: Here Is the List of Required Documents

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration allows passport collection to be delegated to family members or authorised third parties, with specific documents required depending on the relationship to the passport holder. Passports must be collected within 30 days of issuance, and replacement for lost or damaged passports incurs fines of Rp1,000,000 for loss and Rp500,000 for damage, unless due to force majeure. These regulations aim to streamline administrative processes while ensuring accountability and preventing misuse of travel documents.

KPK Spokesperson Confident Dewas Will Objectively Follow Up on Faizal Assegaf's Report

The spokesperson for Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), Budi Prasetyo, expressed confidence that the KPK's Supervisory Board (Dewas) will handle objectively a complaint filed against him by activist Faizal Assegaf, who accuses Budi of using KPK facilities to spread misleading public opinions and falsehoods. Faizal specifically denied claims that KPK investigators seized items from him related to a corruption case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise, clarifying that the items were voluntarily surrendered as personal assistance unrelated to the case. This incident highlights ongoing tensions within anti-corruption efforts and the role of public oversight in ensuring institutional transparency.

Agriculture Minister Amran to Develop Palm Oil on Barren Land, Here is the Target

Agriculture Minister Amran Sulaiman plans to expand palm oil cultivation on unproductive, barren land to boost national production without encroaching on forests or food crop areas, emphasising benefits to the economy and land management. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directive to plant palm oil, sugarcane, and cassava in Papua to accelerate energy self-sufficiency through bioenergy, potentially saving trillions in fuel subsidies. The strategy is supported by improving global CPO prices and export prospects, which are expected to motivate farmers.

KAI Prepares 5G WiFi Service on Long-Distance Trains, Here is the List

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) aims to introduce 5G WiFi services on long-distance trains starting in June 2026 to address passenger complaints about poor internet connectivity, particularly for streaming during travel. Priority routes include those to Semarang, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya, with initial rollout on key trains like KA Taksaka and KA Argo. This initiative forms part of a tripartite MoU with PT Solusi Sinergi Digital and Huawei to advance 5G and AI technologies across Indonesia's railway system, enhancing safety, efficiency, and service quality through infrastructure upgrades and smart detection systems.

Alibaba.com Launches Trade Assurance for Digital Transaction Security

Alibaba.com has introduced its Trade Assurance service in Indonesia to enhance security in cross-border digital trade for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The service protects both buyers and sellers by offering over 20 payment options in more than 45 currencies, real-time order tracking, and quality verification before payment release. This initiative aims to build trust in digital transactions, boost product visibility, and help Indonesian exporters complete orders without concerns.

Banten Police Uncover Illicit LPG Mixing Base in Lebak, Three Arrested

Banten Provincial Police's Directorate of Special Criminal Investigation has dismantled an illegal operation in Lebak Regency where subsidised 3kg LPG cylinders were being mixed into 12kg cylinders for resale at non-subsidised prices, resulting in state losses of Rp626,342,400. Three suspects were arrested for their roles in the six-month scheme, which involved transferring gas from four 3kg cylinders into one 12kg cylinder and distributing them via vehicles. The perpetrators face up to six years in prison and fines of Rp60 billion under Indonesia's Oil and Gas Law, highlighting ongoing challenges in safeguarding subsidised energy distribution for eligible households.

PRR Task Force Restores Thousands of Hectares of Rice Fields to Ensure Food Security

The PRR Task Force is prioritising the rehabilitation of rice fields in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra following recent disasters, aiming to restore agricultural productivity and bolster food security in affected regions. As of 13 April 2026, 1,301 hectares out of a 42,702-hectare target have been restored, with significant progress in West Sumatra, alongside efforts to clean mud from impacted sites. The initiative also addresses legal aspects of land ownership, urging coordination between local governments and the National Land Agency to resolve documentation issues and ensure sustainable recovery for farmers.

Recruitment for 30,000 Managers of Merah Putih Village Cooperatives Opens

The Indonesian government has launched the first phase of recruitment for 30,000 managers of Merah Putih Village Cooperatives, announced by Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan. The selection targets graduates up to age 35 with a minimum GPA of 2.75, conducted transparently without fees, with successful candidates initially employed under state-owned enterprise PT Agrinas Pangan Nusantara for two years before transitioning to the cooperatives. This initiative supports the government's target of establishing 30,000 cooperative units by mid-2026, emphasising the role of skilled managers in driving rural economic development.

Seven Names Pass Administrative Selection for Yogyakarta City Regional Secretary Candidates, Here is the List

Seven internal officials from the Yogyakarta City Government have passed the administrative selection to become candidates for the Regional Secretary (Sekda) position, which has been vacant since the retirement of Aman Yuriadijaya at the beginning of 2026. The selection process, overseen by a committee led by the DIY Provincial Secretary and involving academics from UGM and UMY, will continue with managerial and sociocultural competency tests, followed by written and oral idea assessments, ultimately narrowing down to three finalists for the Mayor's selection. This open selection underscores efforts to ensure merit-based appointments in key municipal leadership roles.