Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

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Acquittal of Amsal Sitepu: DPR's Commission III Says Law Must Not Be Detached from Reality

The Medan District Court has acquitted Amsal Christy Sitepu in a corruption case involving the production of village profile videos in North Sumatra's Karo Regency, a decision welcomed by Deputy Chairman of DPR's Commission III, Rano Alfath, as it underscores that legal processes should remain grounded in social realities rather than rigid applications. Alfath emphasised the need for proof of malicious intent and abuse of authority under anti-corruption laws, criticising simplistic assessments of creative work that ignore its subjective value. This ruling highlights the importance of protecting creative professionals and human originality amid advancing AI technologies, urging a more nuanced approach to state financial losses in non-standard sectors.

WFH One Day a Week Also Implemented in Jakarta, Why Friday?

The Indonesian government has mandated work from home (WFH) for civil servants one day a week on Fridays to save costs amid rising global oil prices due to Middle East conflicts. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto explained that Friday's half-day nature makes it suitable, drawing from pandemic-era practices, while ensuring public services remain uninterrupted. The Jakarta provincial government will follow this policy, with technical details to be outlined in circulars from relevant ministries.

Three TNI Soldiers Fall in Lebanon, State Awards Extraordinary Promotions and Billions in Compensation

Three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers lost their lives during a United Nations peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon due to an explosion amid escalating conflict, prompting profound national mourning. The state has honoured them with posthumous extraordinary rank promotions, international UN medals, continued salaries for 12 months, and substantial compensation packages exceeding Rp1.8 billion each for their families, including insurance and educational support. This incident underscores Indonesia's commitment to global peacekeeping while highlighting the sacrifices of its personnel and the government's robust welfare provisions for fallen heroes.

Vice President Gibran Mourns the Deaths of Three TNI Soldiers in Lebanon, Conveys This

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has expressed profound condolences over the deaths of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), honouring their dedication to peacekeeping. Indonesia has strongly condemned the attack, which also injured five other personnel, and is demanding a thorough international investigation by the UN, accountability for the perpetrators, and concrete measures to prevent future incidents amid escalating conflict in southern Lebanon. The government attributes the escalation to Israeli actions and calls for respect for international humanitarian law, underscoring the priority of protecting UN peacekeepers.

Finance Minister Purbaya to Add Rp 100 Trillion for Energy Subsidies

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced an additional allocation of Rp 90 trillion to Rp 100 trillion for energy subsidies in response to the global energy crisis triggered by the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. This funding will cover subsidies for commodities such as 3 kg LPG and diesel, separate from compensation schemes for Pertalite, bringing the total energy support to Rp 381.3 trillion when combined. Purbaya assured that the state budget deficit will remain controlled below 3%, even with oil prices at $100 per barrel, emphasising the government's preparedness for economic fluctuations.

Overtaking India, Pakistan Seizes the Diplomatic Stage in Iran Conflict

In the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran, Pakistan has emerged as a potential mediator by offering to host talks between Washington and Tehran, gaining international visibility, while India adopts a more restrained approach focused on energy security and diaspora protection. Indian opposition leaders criticise Prime Minister Modi's foreign policy as inadequate, highlighting Pakistan's superior diplomatic narrative management. Experts warn that prolonged conflict could erode Modi's domestic approval and undermine India's claims to strategic autonomy, though India's global weight far surpasses Pakistan's tactical gains.

Sued by TNI Retirees, Metro Jaya Police Have Not Yet Received Summons for First Hearing

Nine retired TNI generals have filed a citizen lawsuit against the Metro Jaya Police's Directorate of General Criminal Investigation at the South Jakarta District Court over the handling of the alleged fake diploma case involving former President Joko Widodo. The first hearing, scheduled for Monday, 6 April 2026, aims to present the lawsuit, but the police have not yet received the official summons. Despite this, the police spokesperson assured that a legal team is being prepared to address the case in court, highlighting concerns about potential abuse of power by state apparatus if the matter is ignored.

Polda Metro Jaya: Case of Andrie Yunus Has Been Handed Over to TNI

Jakarta's Metro Jaya Police have confirmed the transfer of the acid attack case against activist and KontraS Deputy Coordinator Andrie Yunus to the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), following initial investigations that uncovered key facts. The handover was reported during a meeting with Commission III of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), where police officials stated that the case file and digital evidence have been submitted to TNI's Military Police Corps. This development underscores ongoing parliamentary oversight of the case, with commitments for further meetings as updates emerge, highlighting concerns over attacks on human rights defenders in Indonesia.

Komnas HAM Seeks Statements from 7 TNI Officials Regarding the Acid Attack on Andrie Yunus, What Aspects Are Being Probed?

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has questioned seven high-ranking Indonesian National Army (TNI) officers about the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of KontraS, which occurred on 18 March 2026. The closed-door session, lasting two hours, focused on TNI's actions prior to the incident and the investigative steps taken by the TNI Military Police Centre (Puspom) after receiving evidence from Metro Jaya Police, leading to the naming of four suspects. This probe underscores efforts to ensure accountability in human rights violations involving state security forces.

Top 5 International News Stories Today

US President Donald Trump announced that American forces will end operations in Iran within two to three weeks, amid concerns over rising fuel prices since the war began on 28 February. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated readiness to counter any US ground invasion, doubting American resolve, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated a post-war review of NATO relations. Other developments include a Russian military plane crash in Crimea killing 29, and the deployment of a third US aircraft carrier to the Middle East.

Finance Minister Purbaya keeps 2026 state budget deficit below 3 percent

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has assured that Indonesia's 2026 state budget deficit will remain below 3 percent at approximately 2.9 percent, despite global energy price surges triggered by the US-Israel-Iran conflict. This adjustment from an initial projection of 2.68 percent accounts for oil prices averaging $100 per barrel, though current averages are lower at $76-77, allowing for fiscal buffers like a Rp420 trillion surplus. The government is implementing spending cuts across ministries and maintaining fuel prices without yet tapping into reserves, underscoring robust financial management amid international volatility.

Note! Electricity Tariffs for April 2026 Per kWh

Electricity tariffs in Indonesia for April to June 2026 remain unchanged from the previous quarter, with rates varying by customer category and power capacity, starting at Rp 1,352 per kWh for 900 VA residential users. This stability provides relief to consumers amid ongoing economic pressures. PLN has outlined a straightforward method to check bills via its mobile app using the SwaCAM feature for accurate meter readings.

Indonesia's Investment Rating Downgraded, Capital Markets Face Increasing Pressure from Global Sentiment - INAnews

Indonesia's capital markets are under mounting pressure following the downgrade of its investment outlook by Moody's and Fitch Ratings, exacerbating concerns over fiscal risks and investor confidence. Researcher Riza Annisa Pujarama from MACFIN INDEF warns that unresolved issues, including a fiscal deficit projected at 2.92% in 2025 and global oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel against the national budget assumption of $70, could trigger capital outflows and destabilise the economy. She urges retail investors, particularly Generation Z, to consider macroeconomic factors like GDP growth, interest rates, inflation, and commodity prices rather than blindly following influencer recommendations.

Indonesian Residents Suddenly Cutting Back on Overseas Trips, What's Going On?

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reports a significant decline in Indonesian outbound travel, with February 2026 recording 701,000 trips, down 30.34% from the previous month and 7.64% year-on-year. Cumulatively for January-February 2026, trips totalled 1.71 million, a 2.39% decrease from the prior year. This sharp drop suggests Indonesians are tightening their belts amid potential economic pressures, impacting tourism and related sectors.

Revealed! Central Jakarta Residents Have the Highest Number Without Homes

Indonesia's housing backlog stands at 13% nationally, with Jakarta leading at 40.59%, and Central Jakarta experiencing the highest rate at 55.83%, affecting 146,729 households. BPS Chief Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti highlighted the need for government intervention through the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas to provide targeted solutions for affordable housing. This underscores the pressing urban housing crisis in the capital, particularly in densely populated central areas.

Not Just Friday WFH, Government Cuts Official Trips

The Indonesian government is implementing efficiency measures for civil servants beyond the Friday Work From Home scheme, including restrictions on official travel, optimisation of online meetings, and reduced use of official vehicles to 50% capacity, effective from 1 April 2026. These policies, outlined in a circular from the Minister for Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform, Rini Widyantini, also promote wise energy use, digital technology adoption, and prioritisation of public transport. Instansi are required to evaluate the effectiveness of these measures on organisational performance, energy efficiency, and public service quality, with reports due monthly to the ministry.

East Jakarta Environmental Agency Clears 110 Tonnes of Waste at Cijantung TPS

The East Jakarta Environmental Service has successfully removed 110 tonnes of waste from the temporary storage site in Cijantung, Pasar Rebo subdistrict, following quota restrictions at the Bantargebang integrated waste processing facility due to a recent landslide. The two-day operation involved 10 large trucks and has restored normal conditions at the site with no remaining piles. Looking ahead, plans include installing a 24-hour incinerator provided by Kodam Jaya to reduce reliance on the main facility and improve local waste management.

Ancol Canal Emitting Sewage Odour Similar to Human Waste, Evidence of Ineffective Law Enforcement

Residents in Ancol, North Jakarta, are disturbed by a strong sewage smell resembling human faeces emanating from canals and drains along Jalan Karang Bolong Raya, highlighting ongoing pollution issues in the area. Environmental expert from the University of Indonesia, Mahawan Karuniasa, attributes this to weak law enforcement and inadequate implementation of government sanitation and wastewater treatment programmes, despite their existence. The low water quality index in North Jakarta underscores the severity of the contamination, with most water bodies classified as lightly to moderately polluted, calling for stronger regulatory action to address this serious environmental concern.

TASPEN Group Provides Free Home Renovations, Demonstrating Care for Civil Servants and the Community

PT TASPEN (Persero), in collaboration with Bank Mandiri Taspen, has launched a free home renovation programme in Desa Pagal, Manggarai Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur, providing Rp 130 million in aid to improve living conditions for beneficiaries. The initiative, attended by TASPEN's Operational Director and a Special Staff to the Minister of Human Rights, aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita directives on enhancing societal welfare through safe and healthy housing. Since 2025, the programme has been implemented nine times across various Indonesian regions, underscoring TASPEN's commitment to sustainable social and environmental responsibility.

Trans-Sumatra Toll Road Sees 3.3 Million Vehicles During Eid Exodus 2026

PT Hutama Karya reported a significant surge in traffic on the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming and return periods, with over 3.3 million vehicles passing through operational and functional sections between 13 and 30 March. Peak mudik traffic occurred on 18 March with more than 194,000 vehicles, while the return peak on 23 March saw over 264,000, highlighting the busiest segment as Kuala Tanjung-Tebing Tinggi-Parapat with 703,000 vehicles and a 236% increase on the Sigli-Banda Aceh route compared to normal conditions. The smooth operation, aided by functional toll sections and inter-agency coordination, underscores the critical role of infrastructure in managing Indonesia's massive annual migration, ensuring safer and more comfortable travel experiences.

Acknowledging Unresolved Waste Issues, Pramono Adds 20 New Trucks to Clear Mountain of Rubbish in Kramat Jati

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has admitted that waste management problems in the capital remain unresolved, particularly in areas like Kramat Jati market where rubbish piles have accumulated. To address this, he has deployed an additional 20 new trucks to accelerate clearance efforts, noting that while progress is being made, full resolution will take more time. Operations at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site are also improving gradually, with rubbish volumes decreasing despite ongoing limitations in certain zones, highlighting ongoing challenges in urban waste infrastructure.

Deputy Minister of Public Works Instructs Emergency Handling of Kedungrejo Weir in Madiun

Deputy Minister of Public Works Diana Kusumastuti has directed emergency measures for the severely damaged Kedungrejo Weir in Madiun Regency, East Java, following its collapse and a subsequent landslide, which threatens irrigation for over 1,500 hectares of rice fields essential for food security. The initial response involves clearing sedimentation and demolishing damaged sections to restore river flow, expected to take two weeks, with permanent reconstruction proposed under a 2025 presidential instruction at an estimated cost of Rp20 billion. Local authorities have praised the central government's swift action, highlighting the weir's critical role in supporting agriculture in the region.

Independent JKN Participant in Pematangsiantar Satisfied with BPJS Health Services

Rita Zahara, a 54-year-old independent JKN participant from Pematangsiantar, North Sumatra, expressed satisfaction with the efficient and professional healthcare services provided by BPJS Kesehatan during her routine treatment for a nerve disorder. She highlighted the smooth registration and medical examination processes, the friendly demeanour of medical staff, and the equitable treatment regardless of participant segment, which has alleviated her family's concerns about accessing hospital care. Rita hopes for continued improvements in the JKN programme to extend its benefits to more Indonesians, underscoring its vital role in public health.

Merdeka Copper Gold (MDKA) Reports Revenue of Rp 32.06 Trillion, Down 15.62% in 2025

PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk (MDKA) recorded a revenue of US$1.89 billion (Rp 32.06 trillion) for 2025, marking a 15.62% decline from the previous year, despite an EBITDA of US$373 million bolstered by a 32% rise in average gold selling prices and a 44% increase in nickel ore production. The company advanced key projects, including the Tujuh Bukit gold mine producing 103,156 ounces of gold, and the Pani gold mine, which began production in February 2026 with its first gold sales in March, positioning MDKA for significant future growth in gold output and cash flow. This performance underscores MDKA's strategic focus on scaling operations and enhancing long-term value for shareholders amid fluctuating commodity markets.

Komnas HAM Questions Danpuspom to Wakapuspen TNI on Acid Attack

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has completed questioning several high-ranking Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) officials, including the Commander of the Military Police Centre and the Deputy Head of the Legal Information Centre, regarding the investigation into the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus. The inquiry focused on TNI's pre- and post-incident actions, the enforcement process leading to the detention of four suspects from the Strategic Intelligence Agency, and potential superior commands or operational involvement. Komnas HAM plans to summon the suspects and experts next week, amid claims from civil society groups that the attack involved at least 16 field operatives in what they describe as an intelligence operation.

Danantara and Partners Set to Launch Indonesia's First "Aviation Leasing Fund"

PT Danantara Investment Management (DIM), SMBC Aviation Capital, and Mandiri Investment Management have announced a partnership to develop the Mandiri Aviation Leasing Fund, Indonesia's inaugural aviation leasing investment platform with an initial portfolio value of approximately US$800 million. This collaboration marks a significant step in integrating Indonesia into the global aviation financing ecosystem, combining DIM's strategic investment role, SMBC's world-class leasing expertise, and Mandiri's asset management capabilities to offer institutional-grade opportunities for investors. The initiative is expected to foster long-term growth, innovation, and cross-border economic ties, particularly between Indonesia and Japan, while positioning the country as a new player in the global aviation leasing market.

Ministry of Culture Focuses on Advancing Culture through Five Fields

Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has announced that the ministry will prioritise the advancement of national culture this year through the National Talent Management programme in five key areas: fine arts, film, music, performing arts, and literature. Highlighting film's role as a vital platform for showcasing Indonesian culture globally, the ministry is providing facilitation for filmmakers to participate in international festivals such as Cannes and Busan, alongside domestic events. Additional support includes a screenplay writing competition to map talents and the Indonesiana Fund offering up to Rp2.5 billion in matching funds, aiming to foster a diverse and progressive national film industry.

Ministry of Industry's Strategy to Accelerate National Industrial Transformation

The Ministry of Industry is bolstering strategies to hasten the transformation of Indonesia's national industry towards competitiveness, sustainability, and value addition, in alignment with President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita vision. Key efforts include implementing the New National Industrialisation Strategy (SBIN), emphasising downstream processing and resource-based industrialisation to boost domestic value. Supported by the Agency for Standardisation and Industrial Services Policy (BSKJI), initiatives focus on enhancing product standardisation, certification, and innovation through technical units providing testing, calibration, and green industry certifications.

Klungkung Regency to Review Implementation of WFH for Civil Servants

The Klungkung Regency government plans to study the implementation of work from home (WFH) for civil servants (ASN) following a circular from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Regent I Made Satria highlighted that not all departments, particularly those involved in public services like disaster management and health, can easily adopt WFH, necessitating coordination to determine feasible units. This review aligns with the central government's directive to transform civil service work culture through a mix of office-based and remote work arrangements.

Breaking Rp 5.7 Billion, Pertapreneur Aggregator Mentorship Programme Successfully Strengthens Ecosystem

PT Pertamina's Pertapreneur Aggregator programme has achieved significant success, with participating micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) recording combined sales of Rp 5.72 billion by March 2026, fostering a robust business ecosystem through mentorship and collaboration. The initiative trains selected MSMEs to act as aggregators, enhancing their own operations while supporting other small businesses in accessing broader markets, supply chains, and technological advancements. This effort aligns with Pertamina's commitments to economic independence, sustainable development goals, and ESG principles, exemplified by success stories like Rendang Gadih and Bali Honey.

Police Question Karni Ilyas Regarding Jokowi Fake Diploma Allegation Case

Jakarta's Metro Jaya Police have questioned journalist and TV presenter Karni Ilyas in connection with allegations of a fake diploma involving President Joko Widodo, focusing on a television programme he hosted discussing the issue. The examination, conducted on 30 March 2026, aims to verify the content broadcasted on mass media, with journalist Aiman Witjaksono also scheduled for questioning on 2 April 2026. This development underscores ongoing scrutiny of media coverage on high-profile political controversies in Indonesia.

Firm Stance! OJK to Reveal Names of Listed Companies and Stock Manipulation Perpetrators

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has pledged to intensify enforcement against violations in the capital market, including publicly disclosing the names of listed companies and individuals involved in stock manipulation practices known as "goreng saham." This commitment comes amid parliamentary scrutiny over suspicious price surges in newly listed stocks, highlighting risks to investors and the banking sector. The move aims to enhance transparency, protect consumers, and strengthen market integrity, potentially addressing concerns from global index providers like MSCI about the fragility of Indonesia's capital market.

QRIS Set to Be Usable in China Soon

Bank Indonesia is accelerating the expansion of its Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) for cross-border payments, with official connectivity to South Korea starting on 1 April 2026 and planned implementation in China next month. This initiative builds on existing links with Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Japan, aiming to enhance global integration of Indonesia's payment system as outlined in the 2030 Blueprint. The expansion promises faster, cheaper, and more practical transactions for consumers, tourists, and SMEs, boosting financial inclusion and regional connectivity in Asia.

2025 SPT Reporting Reaches 10.53 Million, Dominated by Employees

The Indonesian Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has recorded 10.53 million annual income tax returns (SPT) for the 2025 tax year as of 31 March 2026, with the majority—over 9.2 million—filed by individual employee taxpayers. Corporate filings total around 213,000 in rupiah and 159 in US dollars, while activations of the Coretax system have surged to 17.55 million accounts. The DJP warns of fines up to Rp1 million and potential criminal penalties for late or non-filers, urging prompt compliance to avoid sanctions under tax laws.

China's US$65 Billion Investment Drives Nickel Downstreaming, But Environmental Pressures Intensify

China has invested over US$65 billion in Indonesia's mining, smelting, and refining of nickel since the downstreaming policy was implemented, accounting for more than half of its global investments in critical minerals and positioning Indonesia as the world's largest nickel producer with 22% of global reserves. This influx has boosted the electric vehicle battery supply chain, created jobs, and developed industrial parks like IMIP and IWIP, yet it has also heightened environmental concerns including reliance on 7.7 GW of coal-fired power plants, industrial waste, and threats to local communities' rights to land, clean water, and health. Experts urge alignment with low-carbon energy transitions, stricter environmental standards, and greater local economic benefits to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes.

Pramono: Jakarta Civil Servants Must Not Use Private Vehicles During WFH

The Jakarta Provincial Government has introduced a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) one day per week on Fridays, following a central government directive aimed at reducing energy consumption. Governor Pramono Anung has emphasised that ASN must adhere strictly to the policy by using public transport and avoiding private vehicles during WFH hours to ensure its effectiveness. The policy, which will apply to 25-50% of employees depending on departmental needs, is being finalised by the Regional Civil Service Agency (BKD) and will include strict sanctions for violations.

Bengkulu Governor Issues Circular Banning PPPK Layoffs Related to Efficiency

Bengkulu Governor Helmi Hasan has issued a circular instructing all regents and mayors in the province to refrain from laying off Pegawai Pemerintah dengan Perjanjian Kerja (PPPK), including part-time PPPK, on grounds of budget efficiency. The directive, issued on 1 April 2026, emphasises compliance with prevailing regulations and the Financial Relations Law between central and local governments, while urging strategic measures to curb employee expenditure without compromising public service delivery. This policy aims to preserve workforce stability in the bureaucracy, highlighting PPPK's crucial role in supporting administrative functions amid central government efficiency mandates.

To Strengthen Regional Partnership, Bahlil Signs Three Agreements with South Korea

Indonesian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia signed three bilateral Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with South Korea on clean energy, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and critical minerals, witnessed by Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Lee Jae Myung. These agreements aim to enhance joint capacity in facing global energy challenges, such as potential supply disruptions from Middle East conflicts, by promoting technology transfer, investment, and sustainable practices in renewable energy, nuclear, hydrogen, and mineral processing. The pacts underscore Indonesia's proactive energy diplomacy and elevate bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, unique to Indonesia among South Korea's relations.

Metro Police Seize 12,000 Fake Banknotes from Bogor Shaman

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have seized 12,191 sheets of counterfeit Rp100,000 notes from a 39-year-old suspect known as MP alias Mahfud in Bogor, West Java, who posed as a money-doubling shaman to perpetrate fraud. The operation uncovered printing equipment including printers and mobile phones, with the fake notes produced using genuine currency as templates, highlighting the use of rudimentary methods in currency counterfeiting scams. Authorities warn the public against unrealistic money-doubling schemes involving rituals, as the suspect faces up to 15 years in prison under charges of fraud and currency forgery, underscoring ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes in Indonesia.

Indonesia's Reference Coal Price (HBA) at the Start of April 2026, Average Still Rising!

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has set the Reference Coal Price (HBA) for the first period of April 2026, with three out of four categories experiencing price increases compared to the previous period in March, while the highest-calorie category saw a slight decline. This adjustment reflects ongoing global market dynamics driven by sustained demand for energy and strategic minerals. The prices range from US$99.87 per tonne for the highest quality coal to US$35.23 per tonne for the lowest, influencing coal sales and export revenues in Indonesia's vital energy sector.

Former Subordinate of Bobby Sentenced to 5.5 Years in Prison in North Sumatra Road Corruption Case

The Medan District Court has sentenced Topan Obaja Putra, former head of the North Sumatra Public Works and Public Housing Department, to five years and six months in prison for corruption involving road construction projects in the province. His subordinate, Rasuli Efendi Siregar, received a four-year sentence, with both ordered to pay fines and restitution for accepting bribes to rig tender processes for companies linked to local business figures. This verdict, matching the KPK's demands, underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in Indonesia's regional infrastructure development, particularly under the administration of Governor Bobby Nasution.

Commission III Urges Optimisation of Surface Water Tax to Strengthen West Java's Fiscal Resilience

Members of West Java's DPRD Commission III, led by Tina Wiryawati, are advocating for the enhanced management of Surface Water Tax (PAP) to bolster the province's fiscal resilience, highlighting its untapped potential as a key revenue source. They emphasise the need for transparent, fair, and technology-driven collection processes to balance economic benefits with environmental sustainability, while improving oversight and inter-agency collaboration to minimise revenue leakages. This initiative is seen as crucial for maximising local own-source revenue (PAD) and supporting sustainable development in West Java.

Dukcapil Reveals Decline in Migrants to DKI Jakarta

The DKI Jakarta Population and Civil Registration Service (Dukcapil) has reported a continued downward trend in new migrants to the capital following the Eid al-Fitr holiday in 1447 H, with only 1,335 arrivals recorded between 25 and 31 March 2026. This marks a significant decrease from previous years, dropping from 16,049 in 2025 to the current low figure, reflecting a three-year pattern of declining migration. Authorities are enhancing outreach services in local communities to assist with administrative registrations, while emphasising the need for migrants to prepare necessary documents and skills amid Jakarta's positive economic growth.

Data-Based Traffic Engineering: Polri's Key to Reducing Fatalities by 31% During 2026 Eid Exodus

Indonesian National Police (Polri), in collaboration with stakeholders, achieved a 31.19% reduction in road fatalities during the 2026 Eid holiday operations through advanced data-driven traffic management and digital technologies. This success, highlighted in a post-operation evaluation led by Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, involved precise interventions like contraflows and one-way systems, supported by AI and real-time data, resulting in fewer accidents and smoother mobility for millions of travellers. The initiative underscores the effectiveness of government stimuli, such as toll discounts and remote work policies, in enhancing road safety and public service during peak travel periods.

PBNU Meets Saudi Ambassador, Pushes for Diplomatic Path to Halt Middle East Conflict

Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) Chairman KH Yahya Cholil Staquf met with Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to Indonesia, Faisal Abdullah Al-Amudi, to advocate for diplomatic solutions to the escalating Middle East conflict. Gus Yahya expressed deep sympathy for the prolonged crisis, reaffirmed NU's support for the Palestinian struggle and Saudi Arabia's efforts, and urged Indonesia's government and other Islamic organisations to press for peace. The ambassador highlighted the global economic risks, including threats to energy production, and hoped for NU's continued vocal support in de-escalating tensions.

Jakarta's Export Value Weakens by 10.55 Percent in February 2026

Jakarta's export value fell to 1.35 billion US dollars in February 2026, marking a 10.55 percent decline from the previous year, primarily due to a contraction in non-oil and gas exports by 10.85 percent, with the processing industry dropping 9.36 percent. Cumulatively from January to February, exports totalled 2.90 billion US dollars, down 0.96 percent, led by key commodities such as precious metals and jewellery (19.16 percent share), vehicles and parts (18.55 percent), and footwear (16.75 percent). Thailand emerged as the top destination with 559.33 million US dollars in exports, followed by the United States and China, highlighting the city's reliance on these sectors amid global trade challenges.

KPK Searches Home of PDIP Politician Ono Surono in West Java

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed a search at the residence of Ono Surono, Deputy Chairman of the West Java Provincial Legislative Council and a PDIP politician, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption involving project bribes in Bekasi Regency. The raid, conducted in Bandung, relates to a case implicating former Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang and his father, who have been named suspects in the bribery scandal. This development underscores the KPK's intensified efforts to combat corruption in local government projects, highlighting potential political ties to the graft.

Bahana Sekuritas Partners with Recapital AM to Expand Access to Investment Products

PT Bahana Sekuritas has formed a partnership with PT Recapital Asset Management to broaden investment access for the public, aiming to strengthen product distribution and enhance capital market services in Indonesia. The collaboration introduces four tailored investment products, including money market, fixed income, balanced, and equity funds, designed for various risk profiles to promote financial inclusion and literacy. This move underscores a shared commitment to fostering a healthy growth in the capital market while advancing business opportunities for both firms.

Viral Double Parking Payment at Blok M Square Leads to Crackdown on 10 Illegal Parking Attendants

Authorities in South Jakarta have cracked down on 10 illegal parking attendants at Blok M Square following a viral social media video of a resident protesting double parking fees. The Transportation Department installed warning banners prohibiting payments to unlicensed parkers, and the attendants were required to sign statements promising not to repeat the offence, with threats of heavier penalties for violations. This action, involving civil service police and parking management, also addressed misplaced street vendors, aiming to enforce official single-payment parking procedures.

Four paintings linked to 1MDB, including a Picasso, to return to Malaysia on 6 April

Four valuable paintings, including a Picasso worth up to US$7,000, linked to the 1MDB scandal and seized from former counsel Jasmine Loo Ai Swan, are set to be repatriated to Malaysia on 6 April through cooperation between the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and US authorities. Valued at nearly US$140,000, these artworks represent a significant recovery effort, with seven more still held by Christie's auction house pending retrieval via mutual legal assistance. The repatriation underscores Malaysia's ongoing fight against corruption from the 1MDB fund misappropriation, which toppled the previous government, and the paintings may be publicly displayed before potential auction to recover funds for the state.