Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

Showing 551-600 of 1,900 articles

Government to Build 800 Houses on KAI and Angkasa Pura Land

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas, is partnering with state-owned enterprises PT Kereta Api Indonesia and PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia to construct 800 affordable housing units on their underutilised land in Jakarta's Senen and Tanah Abang areas, with completion targeted for 15 June 2026. This initiative, praised for its rapid execution following presidential directives, aims to address the severe housing backlog in urban centres, where Central Jakarta faces a 55.83% rate of households without ownership. By leveraging SOE assets, the project exemplifies a strategic cross-sector collaboration to enhance housing accessibility for the public amid national shortages affecting 13% of the population.

Yogyakarta City Government Regulates Daily Fuel Quota for Official Vehicles, Auctions Old Cars

The Yogyakarta City Government is implementing work-from-home policies every Friday for most employees, excluding essential services and higher-ranking officials, in line with central government directives to conserve fuel amid global conflicts. Additionally, it has introduced daily fuel quotas of 5 litres for cars and 1 litre for motorcycles for official vehicles, projecting annual savings from Rp10.7 billion to Rp6 billion, while planning to auction off unnecessary and old vehicles to further reduce costs. The measures also include moral appeals for civil servants to use green transportation and restrictions on official travel, aiming to set an example in energy efficiency.

Good News: South Korea Elevates Relations with Indonesia to Special Strategic Comprehensive Status

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has announced the upgrade of bilateral relations with Indonesia to a special strategic comprehensive partnership during a state banquet for President Prabowo Subianto at Cheong Wa Dae. This milestone emphasises expanded cooperation in defence, economy, innovation, culture, and investment opportunities through the Danantara Fund, alongside joint projects like fighter aircraft development. The leaders highlighted shared visions for public welfare, fostering optimism for a prosperous future built on trust and mutual interests.

East Java Sets Record for Most SNBP 2026 Graduates

East Java has achieved a record-breaking 29,046 students passing the National Selection Based on Achievement (SNBP) for 2026, maintaining its top national position for the seventh consecutive year since 2019 and demonstrating the province's improving human resource quality. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa highlighted the success as a result of effective educational strategies, including school mapping of opportunities and rankings, with a particular emphasis on the KIP-K programme enabling 8,915 underprivileged students to access higher education and reduce access disparities. This accomplishment underscores East Java's commitment to equitable education, encouraging both successful and unsuccessful applicants to persist towards building a capable future generation.

Sorry USA, the World Trusts Iran's Statements More Than Donald Trump's

In a recent Oval Office address, US President Donald Trump claimed that the war with Iran would end in two to three weeks once assured that the regime cannot develop nuclear weapons. However, experts like Ted Widmer and former CIA Director John Brennan argue that Trump's inconsistent and chaotic messaging has eroded global trust, with the world more inclined to believe Iran's statements, such as President Masoud Pezeshkian's willingness to end the conflict if guarantees are provided. This credibility gap, exacerbated by Trump's flip-flopping on negotiations and military commitments, has damaged US prestige and highlighted a lack of coherent strategy in the ongoing Middle East tensions.

Fuel Price Hike Rumours Cause Public Panic, Jagakarsa Petrol Station Temporarily Runs Out of Stock

Rumours of an impending fuel price increase led to panic buying in Jakarta, causing a petrol station in Jagakarsa to temporarily run out of stock on Tuesday afternoon. The station's attendant confirmed that queues were overwhelming due to limited supplies, with different fuel types depleting at various times, though supplies have since been replenished and queues normalised. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi has officially denied any plans for price adjustments, assuring the public of stable national fuel stocks and urging calm in the face of unfounded rumours.

Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas to Prepare Flats for Lower-Middle Income Society

Indonesia's Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas, Maruarar Sirait, has announced plans to collaborate with state-owned enterprises to develop vertical housing, specifically rusun (flats), targeted at the lower-middle income group (Masyarakat Berpenghasilan Tanggung or MBT). This initiative includes tailored regulations, designs, and locations to suit their economic capabilities, alongside a special financing scheme offering a fixed 7% interest rate for 15 years and tenures up to 30 years. Supported by the Finance Minister, the policy aims to make homeownership more accessible, lower down payments and instalments, and stimulate economic growth in line with President Prabowo's commitment to provide decent housing for all Indonesians.

WFH Regulation Every Friday for Civil Servants Officially Takes Effect Today

A new regulation signed by the Minister of State Apparatus Utilization and Bureaucratic Reform, Rini Widyantini, mandating Work From Home (WFH) every Friday for civil servants (ASN) has come into effect on 1 April 2026. This policy aims to enhance efficiency in energy and operations while ensuring essential public services remain optimal, with agencies required to report evaluations monthly. Local governments will receive further technical guidance from the Minister of Home Affairs, marking a significant step in modernising Indonesia's public sector workforce practices.

Bamsoet: Pancasila Must Serve as Strategic Compass in Facing Global Geopolitics

Bambang Soesatyo, a lecturer at the University of Defence and former Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, has urged that Pancasila be positioned as a strategic compass for Indonesia to navigate escalating global geopolitical tensions, including conflicts in the Middle East and economic fragmentation. He highlighted the direct impacts on Indonesia, such as vulnerability to energy price fluctuations and the need for adaptive fiscal policies to prevent budget deficits, while advocating for a bolder interpretation of the country's non-aligned foreign policy to prioritise national interests. Emphasising economic resilience through industrial downstreaming and technological mastery, Soesatyo stressed that Pancasila's principles of social justice and peace must evolve from symbolic ideals to concrete tools for Indonesia to assert itself as a G20 power and bridge between developed and developing nations.

Aviation Fuel Prices Surge up to 80%, Airline Ticket Fares at Risk of Skyrocketing

Aviation fuel (avtur) prices in Indonesia are set to rise by 70% for domestic routes and 80% for international ones starting 1 April 2026, driven by the Middle East conflict and global trends, prompting airlines to seek fare adjustments. The Indonesia National Air Carriers Association (INACA) urges the government to revise upper limits on domestic flight tariffs and increase fuel surcharges to ensure operational sustainability, as fuel accounts for 40% of airline costs. Garuda Indonesia is implementing efficiency measures, including fuel management and cost controls, to mitigate the impact while maintaining safety and business viability.

Airlines: Iranian Citizens Banned from Entering and Transiting UAE

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has imposed a ban on Iranian citizens entering or transiting through its territory, unless they hold a Golden Visa, as announced by major UAE airlines including Emirates and Flydubai. The Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit valid for five or ten years, granted to investors, entrepreneurs, outstanding students, scientists, and highly skilled professionals, allowing them to live, work, and study without a local sponsor. This restriction reflects heightened geopolitical tensions and could impact travel and regional relations.

Two Japanese airlines to raise fuel surcharges from June

Two major Japanese airlines, ANA and JAL, are set to increase their fuel surcharges for international flights starting in June due to surging aviation fuel prices triggered by the Middle East conflict. The hikes, which could reach up to 55,000 yen for flights to Europe and North America, are expected to impact summer travel demand and highlight broader concerns over rising oil costs. While domestic flights remain unaffected for now, the carriers are considering extending similar measures domestically by 2027 to hedge against long-term fuel price volatility.

WFH for Civil Servants on Different Days: Interior Ministry Asks Bekasi City Government to Follow Central Policy Every Friday

The Ministry of Home Affairs has urged the Bekasi City Government to align its work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) with the central government's directive, which mandates WFH every Friday, rather than the city's current Wednesday arrangement. This call stems from the need for uniformity in national policy implementation, as instructed by the President, though no specific sanctions apply for non-compliance. The policy aims to balance public service delivery, with Bekasi planning 100% WFH for general services but only 50% for direct public-facing roles, highlighting ongoing efforts to standardise remote work amid economic coordination.

Inter-Agency Volunteers Accelerate Sumatra's Recovery

Tens of thousands of personnel from various ministries, security forces, local governments, and non-governmental humanitarian volunteers are collaborating to expedite post-disaster recovery in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra. Key achievements include 84% completion of temporary housing units, full restoration of national roads and bridges, significant progress in mud cleanup, and rapid recovery of essential services like electricity, communications, and healthcare, leading to a sharp decline in the number of displaced persons. This integrated effort, led by the Post-Disaster Recovery Task Force under presidential direction, underscores Indonesia's strong national spirit of mutual cooperation in rebuilding affected regions.

El Niño 'Godzilla' Predicted to Strike Indonesia: What Are the Impacts?

Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) forecasts the occurrence of a severe 'Godzilla' El Niño combined with a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) from April to October 2026, leading to prolonged dry seasons in much of the country. This phenomenon is expected to cause significant drought in southern regions like Java and Nusa Tenggara, threatening rice production in key areas, while eastern parts such as Sulawesi and Maluku may experience high rainfall and flooding. The government is urged to mitigate risks including forest fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan, and to optimise salt production in southern areas to achieve self-sufficiency during 2026-2027.

At the Blue House, Prabowo Praises South Korea's Industrial Progress and Work Ethic

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto praised South Korea's industrial achievements and the strong work ethic of its people during a lunch hosted by President Lee at the Blue House. He highlighted the deepening of bilateral ties into a special comprehensive strategic partnership, marked by the signing of key agreements that reflect mutual trust and shared vision. Prabowo expressed confidence that these developments will yield tangible and sustainable benefits for both nations, drawing on their shared histories of struggle for independence.

UAE Also Implements WFH and Limits Vehicle Speeds

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has urged residents to work from home and reduce maximum speeds on motorways amid an energy crisis triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East, including disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen emphasised the need for oil conservation measures, such as promoting public transport and efficient driving practices, even if peace is achieved soon, normal conditions will not return immediately. These actions follow Iran's restrictions on shipping and threats against vessels, which have caused global shortages and price surges in oil, affecting supplies of diesel and jet fuel.

North Sumatra Provincial Government Receives Mining PAD of Rp 4.5 Billion

The North Sumatra Provincial Government has received Rp 4.5 billion in regional original revenue from the mining sector for 2025, marking the first such intake from non-metallic minerals and rocks taxes, exceeding the previous year's target. Officials highlighted ongoing efforts to regulate licensed mining operations through standards and workforce development, while addressing illegal mining by mapping high-risk areas and coordinating with law enforcement, as local authorities lack direct enforcement powers. Long-term solutions include promoting people's mining permits to legalise community operations, particularly in areas like Mandailing Natal, to mitigate environmental and revenue losses.

Electricity Tariffs for Q2-2026 Unchanged, PLN Ensures Optimal Service

The Indonesian government has decided to keep electricity tariffs unchanged for the second quarter of 2026, as announced by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, providing stability amid global geopolitical uncertainties. PLN's CEO, Darmawan Prasodjo, affirmed the company's commitment to maintaining reliable power supply for all customers, both subsidised and non-subsidised, to support public purchasing power and national industrial competitiveness. This policy, guided by Ministerial Regulation No. 7 of 2024, considers factors like exchange rates, oil prices, inflation, and coal benchmarks, while encouraging efficient energy use to bolster national energy resilience.

Post-August 2025 Riots, Restoration of Grahadi Building's West Wing Begins

Nearly nine months after the devastating fire during the August 2025 riots, the restoration of the west wing of the Grahadi State Building in Surabaya has commenced, funded by a Rp12.76 billion allocation from East Java's regional budget. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa emphasised that the project goes beyond physical repairs to comprehensively preserve the historical heritage using scientific methods, incorporating specialised materials from abroad and modern structural reinforcements while maintaining the building's authentic appearance. The initiative involves multidisciplinary experts and is targeted for completion by 25 October 2026, serving as a means to safeguard Indonesia's historical identity and educate the public.

Tangsel City Government Says ASN WFH Policy Can Save Fuel and Operational Costs

The Tangerang Selatan City Government has announced that implementing work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants (ASN) on Fridays will lead to significant savings in fuel, electricity, and other operational expenses, following central government directives. Mayor Benyamin Davnie highlighted the potential efficiencies while ensuring essential public services, such as health, education, and licensing, continue uninterrupted at offices. This policy revives flexible working arrangements from the COVID-19 era to boost overall governmental efficiency, with supervision via departmental heads and geolocation monitoring.

TNI Soldiers Fall, South Korean President Expresses Condolences

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has conveyed his deepest condolences to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto over the deaths of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers killed in Israeli attacks on the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The incident occurred amid escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, with the soldiers dying in separate explosions within 24 hours in southern Lebanon. President Prabowo also paid tribute to the fallen soldiers via social media, highlighting their dedication to peacekeeping and Indonesia's international reputation.

Pertamina Patra Niaga introduces promotions for the public throughout April

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is offering a range of promotions throughout April 2026 via the MyPertamina app, including cashback and bonus points for digital payments at integrated fuel stations. Weekend transactions earn double MyPertamina points, while new OVO users can receive up to 15,000 points in cashback, with additional incentives for upgrades and other payment methods like AstraPay, GoPay, BNI credit cards, and Mandiri cards. These initiatives aim to enhance transaction convenience and rewards for consumers amid Pertamina's digital integration efforts.

Task Force Accelerates Construction of Three Types of Emergency Bridges Post-Sumatra Disaster

The Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) is rapidly building three types of temporary bridges—Bailey, Armco, and pioneer bridges—in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to restore connectivity disrupted by recent disasters. Led by Muhammad Tito Karnavian, the effort involves collaboration between TNI AD and Polri personnel and has nearly completed most planned structures as of 31 March, with a focus on ensuring logistical systems remain operational. This initiative aims to transition to permanent infrastructure to fully normalise transportation, community mobility, and economic activity in the affected regions.

German Energy Minister calls for review of nuclear policy

German Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy, Katherina Reiche, has urged a reassessment of the government's stance on nuclear energy due to the high vulnerability stemming from dependence on gas supplies. Soaring oil and gas prices, exacerbated by escalating tensions in Iran leading to a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, are placing severe additional burdens on energy-intensive industries already under significant pressure. Reiche emphasised the lack of political alternatives to securing gas supplies, highlighting the need for diversified energy sources to ensure stability.

LBH GP Ansor Bali Submits Amicus Curiae, Calls for Togar Situmorang to Receive Proportionate Punishment

The Legal Aid Institute (LBH) of Gerakan Pemuda Ansor Bali has submitted an amicus curiae brief to prosecutors in the Denpasar District Court case against lawyer Togar Situmorang, accused of fraud and/or embezzlement against a client. LBH Chairman Daniar Trisasongko emphasised the need for a fitting punishment, highlighting how the alleged misconduct undermines public trust in the legal profession and sets a poor example for younger advocates. The organisation pledges to monitor the proceedings to ensure objectivity, transparency, and integrity in the judicial process.

Metro Police Respond to Lawsuit by Retired TNI Generals Regarding Jokowi's Diploma

Retired TNI generals have filed a Citizen Lawsuit against the Metro Police's Criminal Investigation Directorate over their handling of allegations that President Joko Widodo's diploma is fake, expressing disappointment in the legal process rather than the diploma itself. Metro Police spokesperson Kombes Budi Hermanto stated that they do not object to the lawsuit, viewing it as a citizen's right, and will prepare a legal team to respond, including to related pre-trial motions. The lawsuit, initiated by 17 individuals including nine generals and six colonels, accuses investigators of abuse of power and negligence in applying penal codes, amid cases involving figures like Roy Suryo and Dr. Tifa.

Minister for State Apparatus Utilisation and Bureaucratic Reform Requests ASN WFH Not to Disrupt Public Service Quality

The Indonesian government has mandated that civil servants (ASN) work from home every Friday, but the Minister for State Apparatus Utilisation and Bureaucratic Reform, Rini Widyantini, has stressed that this flexibility must not compromise organisational performance or public service quality. Agency heads are required to monitor productivity and ensure essential services like healthcare, security, and emergencies remain uninterrupted, while leveraging digital tools to enhance efficiency and energy savings. The policy will undergo periodic evaluations over the next four months to assess its impact on bureaucracy and service delivery.

From Loss to Profit, Phapros (PEHA) Net Profit Surges 109 Percent in 2025

PT Phapros Tbk (PEHA) has turned around its fortunes, recording a net profit of Rp 27.44 billion in 2025, a stark reversal from a Rp 290.63 billion loss in 2024, marking a 109 percent year-on-year increase. This improvement was driven by a 26.34 percent rise in sales to Rp 940.88 billion, coupled with cost efficiencies that reduced cost of goods sold by 5.41 percent and operating expenses by 14.64 percent. The company's strategic focus on business transformation and product portfolio optimisation has restored sustainable profitability, bolstering its financial position with improved equity and positive operating cash flow.

Absorbing Public Aspirations, DPRD DKI Jakarta Conveys Reses Results

The Jakarta DPRD has actively gathered residents' input through field visits, recesses, and direct dialogues to inform more targeted policies, as highlighted in their second reses report for the 2025–2026 session presented at a plenary meeting. Key concerns include curbing illegal waste dumping at locations like Jalan Menteng Tenggulung and Jalan Serdang Baru XII, alongside needs for enhanced fire safety measures such as APAR and hydrants, improved traffic safety, street lighting, and addressing issues like illegal parking and roadside businesses. These efforts underscore a commitment to collaborative, comprehensive strategies for a cleaner, safer, and more orderly Jakarta.

Andra Soni Emphasises the Role of the Family in the Success of Development Programmes

Banten Governor Andra Soni highlighted the crucial role of strong families in the success of government policies and programmes during a regional coordination meeting for the Bangga Kencana initiative. He stressed the need for cross-sector collaboration to enhance family welfare, particularly in health services and family planning, while linking programmes like free nutritious meals to economic growth through multiplier effects in agriculture and livestock sectors. The event aligned with national visions for human resource development towards Indonesia's Golden 2045, with Banten reporting strong achievements in population control and family development indices.

Pram: WFH Policy Does Not Apply to Satpol PP and Gulkarmat in DKI

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced that the work-from-home (WFH) policy, implemented every Friday for administrative civil servants (ASN), will not apply to public service agencies such as Satpol PP, the Transportation Department, Health Department, and Gulkarmat (fire brigade), which must continue operations as usual. The policy targets 25 to 50 percent of administrative staff, with strict attendance monitoring via mobile systems and oversight by the Regional Personnel Agency (BKD), including sanctions for violations. This measure aims to balance productivity and flexibility in public administration amid Jakarta's ongoing governance needs.

Note! WFH Does Not Reduce Annual Leave or Employee Wages

The Indonesian government has issued a circular from the Minister of Manpower urging companies to implement limited Work From Home (WFH) schemes, such as one day per week, to optimise energy use and bolster national energy resilience without compromising productivity. Minister Yassierli emphasised that employee rights, including full wages and annual leave entitlements, must remain protected during WFH, while companies are encouraged to adopt energy-efficient technologies and practices. This policy aims to provide a medium-term solution for reducing energy consumption amid economic activities.

Jakarta Civil Servants Working from Home Under Strict Supervision, Coffee at Cafés Could Lead to Punishment

The Jakarta Provincial Government is intensifying oversight of the work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN), with Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo emphasising that WFH must be conducted strictly from home and not from cafés or other public places. ASN caught violating this, including using private vehicles on WFH Fridays, face sanctions, and are required to use public transport if leaving home, with attendance monitored via mobile apps by the regional personnel agency. This measure follows central government directives to maintain work discipline amid flexible arrangements.

Minister of PKP Urges SOEs to Build Flats for Middle Class in Major Cities

Indonesia's Minister of People's Housing and Settlement Areas, Maruarar Sirait, has called on state-owned enterprises (SOEs) to collaborate in developing vertical housing or rusun for the lower middle class in major cities including Jakarta, Medan, and Surabaya, addressing the persistent housing affordability challenges. She plans to prepare regulations tailored to this demographic's economic capacity, design preferences, and locations. BPS Chief Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti highlighted the national housing backlog, with 13% of households homeless and DKI Jakarta facing a 40.59% deficit, particularly in Central Jakarta at 55.83%, underscoring the significance of government interventions like rusun projects near railway tracks in Pasar Senen and Tanah Abang.

Logistics Strategy Becomes Key to E-Commerce Growth Post-Ramadan

Following the peak e-commerce activity during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr in the first quarter, brands are now focusing on streamlining operations to sustain and scale growth. Power Commerce Asia reported a significant 50% year-on-year increase during this period, highlighting the importance of scalable and integrated operational readiness. CEO Hadi Kuncoro emphasises that multi-fulfillment strategies and robust warehouse management are crucial for maintaining optimal distribution and preparing for future peaks in the competitive omnichannel ecosystem.

Fallen TNI Soldiers in Lebanon Receive Extraordinary Posthumous Promotions

Three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers who died during a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon have been awarded extraordinary posthumous promotions and compensation exceeding Rp 1.8 billion each, as announced by TNI Commander General Agus Subiyanto. The benefits include UN death benefits, special risk allowances, scholarships for their children, and continued salaries for 12 months, alongside the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal. The incident highlights the escalating risks faced by Indonesian peacekeepers in southern Lebanon amid recent attacks that killed three and injured five.

Lawyer Challenges Social Organisations Law at Constitutional Court, Claiming Foundation Regulations Should Not Apply to Foundations

Advocate Viktor Santoso Tandiasa has filed a judicial review at the Constitutional Court against Article 59 of the Social Organisations Law (UU Ormas No. 16/2017), arguing that its prohibitions on certain names, symbols, or attributes intended for social organisations are being improperly extended to foundations, which are governed by separate legislation. The challenge stems from the rejection of his foundation's registration name by the Directorate General of General Legal Administration under the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, citing violations of the Ormas Law, leading to material losses from forfeited fees. Viktor urges the court to interpret the article conditionally as inapplicable to foundations to prevent legal uncertainty and cross-application of laws, a point questioned by Justice Arsul Sani regarding the distinction between legal forms of social organisations.

All 120 Members of West Java DPRD Complete LHKPN Reporting for 2025, Evidence of Integrity Commitment

All 120 members of the West Java Provincial DPRD have fully complied with submitting their State Organiser Wealth Reports (LHKPN) for 2025, achieving a 100% compliance rate as reported by the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK). This accomplishment underscores the lawmakers' dedication to transparency and accountability in public office, enhancing public trust in the legislative body. The achievement signals a strong commitment to anti-corruption efforts and sets a positive example for maintaining integrity in governance.

Palestinian West Bank Residents Strike to Reject Israel's Death Penalty Law

A massive general strike took place across the West Bank on Wednesday as Palestinians protested against a newly passed Israeli law that facilitates death sentences for Palestinian prisoners convicted of intentional murder of Israelis. The strike, called by the Fatah movement, shut down shops, government and private offices, banks, universities, and schools, while hospitals and bakeries remained open, highlighting the community's unified rejection of what is seen as an escalation of violence against Palestinians. The controversial legislation has drawn sharp criticism even from within Israel, with over 1,200 prominent figures labelling it a "moral stain," amid ongoing concerns over the treatment of more than 9,500 Palestinian detainees, including children and women, in Israeli prisons.

Students at People's High School in Aceh Send Letter to the President

Students from Sekolah Rakyat Menengah Atas 1 Aceh Besar have penned a heartfelt letter to President Prabowo Subianto, expressing profound gratitude for the government's initiative to establish the school amid their impoverished conditions, which has reignited their hopes for the future. Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar received the letter during a visit, highlighting the programme's role in providing equal educational opportunities to underprivileged children. This gesture underscores the government's commitment to inclusive education and youth empowerment, ensuring that poverty does not hinder access to quality learning and character-building.

Legislator Urges Diversification of Supply and Acceleration of Renewable Energy

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has called on the government to ensure short-term fuel availability by diversifying import sources amid global geopolitical tensions, while accelerating the transition to renewable energy for long-term security. Deputy Chairman of Commission VII, Sugeng Suparwoto, highlighted Indonesia's vast potential in solar, geothermal, wind, and hydropower, particularly in eastern regions like Mamberamo and North Kalimantan, but stressed the continued need for oil and gas production to support the petrochemical industry, where the country still imports 53% of its needs valued at $19.3 billion in 2025. This approach aims to foster collective, cross-sectoral solutions to potential energy crises triggered by international conflicts.

Thanks to Chinese Tourists, Indonesia's Tourism Boosted in February, Says BPS

Indonesia's tourism sector in February 2026 showed mixed performance, with international tourist arrivals reaching 1.16 million, down 2.42% from January but up 13.37% year-on-year, largely driven by a 35.91% surge in Chinese visitors during the Chinese New Year holiday. Domestic tourism weakened monthly by 10.69%, though it saw a slight annual increase of 0.70%, with cumulative figures for January-February indicating stable growth. Bali remained the primary entry point, underscoring the sector's resilience and its economic significance amid regional variations.

Sentenced to 5 Years in Money Laundering Case, Nurhadi Files Appeal

Former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi has been sentenced to five years in prison for receiving gratuities and money laundering involving over Rp137 billion in illicit funds, with the court ordering restitution and fines. His legal team plans to appeal, arguing the verdict is illogical and unjust, particularly as witnesses denied direct involvement with Nurhadi and the ruling heavily relied on prosecutors' claims. This conviction, lighter than the seven-year demand, marks Nurhadi's second corruption-related case, underscoring ongoing efforts to combat high-level graft in Indonesia's judiciary.

Iranian Ambassador Visits Solo to Discuss Developments in the Middle East

The Iranian Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, visited Solo to meet former Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Surakarta Mayor Respati Achmad Ardianto, where they discussed recent Middle East developments, including the impacts of imposed wars on Iran. Widodo expressed sympathy and support for Iran's sovereignty, while the ambassador highlighted attacks on civilian areas and infrastructure, reaffirming the strong bilateral ties between Iran and Indonesia. The meetings also emphasised expanding cooperation in trade, economy, tourism, and potential sister city partnerships between Surakarta and an Iranian city.

Bank Mandiri launches toll-free call centre via Livin’ Call

PT Bank Mandiri (Persero) Tbk has introduced Livin’ Call, a toll-free call centre feature accessible through its Livin’ by Mandiri app, enabling customers to connect directly without incurring call charges, even from abroad. The service operates 24/7, integrates artificial intelligence for enhanced security and efficiency, and supports the bank's goal of providing seamless, integrated banking experiences. This launch aligns with the app's robust growth, recording over 738.7 million transactions in early 2026, underscoring the rising adoption of digital banking in Indonesia.

To Maintain Fuel Prices, Purbaya Plans to Increase Subsidy Budget up to Rp 100 Trillion

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced plans to allocate an additional Rp 100 trillion in subsidies for fuel (BBM) to stabilise domestic prices amid global oil price surges triggered by the Middle East conflict. He emphasised that the government's fiscal space remains ample, allowing it to absorb these costs without exceeding the budgeted deficit of 2.9% of GDP, even if average annual oil prices reach US$100 per barrel. This measure underscores Indonesia's commitment to shielding consumers from international volatility while maintaining economic stability.

Prabowo and Lee witness 10 pacts boosting Indonesia-South Korea partnership

President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia and President Lee of South Korea have overseen the signing of 10 agreements to enhance bilateral ties, covering sectors such as economy, energy, digital affairs, health, and industry. Key pacts include establishing a special comprehensive strategic dialogue, cooperation in critical minerals and AI for healthcare, frameworks for clean energy and intellectual property protection, and financial collaboration between Indonesia's Danantara sovereign wealth fund and Korea Eximbank. This multifaceted partnership aims to foster a more inclusive economy, bolster industrial resilience, and accelerate Indonesia's transition to a technology-driven and clean energy-based economy.

Homes of residents affected by relocation in West Jakarta to be demolished soon

The West Jakarta city government is set to complete the demolition of remaining buildings owned by residents affected by relocation in the Kamal and Pegadungan sub-districts of Kalideres on Monday, to clear land for a new public cemetery. Of the 248 affected families, most have already relocated or moved independently, but 11 families remain, and the local authority is urging them to vacate while offering continued support for relocation to housing complexes. The process emphasises a humane approach, allowing time for residents to sell building materials and providing 24-hour assistance for self-demolition.

EV Investment Opportunities in Indonesia: Prabowo Targets Japanese Brands

President Prabowo Subianto has pledged to aggressively promote electric vehicle adoption in Indonesia, highlighting investment opportunities to Japanese businesses during a forum in Tokyo. Amid China's dominance in the local EV market, where battery electric vehicle sales surged 141% to 103,931 units and now account for over 12% of national car sales, Prabowo's message aims to encourage Japanese manufacturers to enter the fray. This move underscores Indonesia's open policy towards international investors in the growing green transportation sector.