Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

Showing 601-650 of 1,900 articles

Prabowo Quotes 'Hamkke Gamyeon Meolli Ganda', Affirms Indonesia and South Korea Advancing Together

President Prabowo Subianto has reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to strengthening ties with South Korea, quoting the Korean proverb 'Hamkke Gamyeon Meolli Ganda'—meaning 'if we go together, we will go far'—during a state luncheon at the Blue House. He highlighted the elevation of bilateral relations to a special comprehensive strategic partnership as a key milestone reflecting mutual trust and shared visions, while praising South Korea's industrial and technological advancements as an inspiration for complementary collaboration with Indonesia's abundant resources. Prabowo's remarks underscore the potential for long-term cooperation benefiting future generations and symbolise enduring friendship amid global dynamics.

Victims of natural disaster in West Pasaman receive housing repair assistance

Victims of a natural disaster in West Pasaman Regency, West Sumatra, have received Rp1.005 billion in ready-to-use funds from the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) to repair moderately and lightly damaged homes. The aid, which totals Rp450 million for 15 moderately damaged houses (Rp30 million each) and Rp555 million for 37 lightly damaged houses (Rp15 million each), is directly transferred to beneficiaries' accounts for independent reconstruction supervised by technical teams. Funding for severely damaged homes, at Rp30 million per unit, is still pending disbursement, highlighting ongoing government support for recovery from the November 2023 disaster that affected homes, agricultural facilities, and infrastructure.

Mad Times: Not Long Ago Oil Prices Were Negative, Now US$100

The global energy market has experienced extreme volatility, with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil prices plunging to around -US$37 per barrel in April 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on demand and full storage capacities, forcing producers to pay to offload their supply. Just six years later, in 2026, prices surged towards US$100 per barrel amid supply disruptions from Middle East conflicts, including blockages in the Strait of Hormuz and production cuts exceeding 10 million barrels per day. This dramatic reversal underscores oil's sensitivity to global disruptions, highlighting the shift from oversupply and collapsed demand in 2020 to constrained supply and geopolitical tensions in 2026, with IEA members releasing emergency reserves to stabilise the market.

Aligned with Government Vision, TASPEN Strengthens Bureaucratic Reform through SMAP ISO 37001:2025

PT TASPEN (Persero), a state-owned enterprise managing pensions and social security for civil servants, is enhancing its Anti-Bribery Management System (SMAP) to comply with ISO 37001:2025 standards, aiming for full implementation across all operations by 2026. This initiative includes comprehensive risk controls, rapid reporting mechanisms, and anti-corruption training to foster a transparent and accountable environment, with a target of zero bribery incidents. The efforts align with President Prabowo Subianto's national vision for bureaucratic reform and corruption eradication, underscoring TASPEN's commitment to ethical governance in public services.

Indonesia seeks alternative naphtha sources amid Mideast supply risks

Indonesia is actively seeking alternative sources of naphtha from countries in India, Africa, and the Americas to mitigate risks from disrupted Middle East supplies, as stated by Santoso from the Presidential Staff Office. Naphtha, essential for producing plastic resin, rubber, and solvents, is critical for domestic industries, and the government is coordinating with international partners and industrial associations to ensure steady feedstock and stabilise prices. This diversification effort comes amid global supply concerns, with nations like South Korea halting exports to protect their own stocks.

Buleleng DPRD Urges Audit of All Orphanages After 7 Children Allegedly Raped and Abused

The Buleleng DPRD has condemned the alleged rape and abuse of seven children at the Ganesha Sevanam Orphanage in Sawan, Bali, demanding a thorough investigation and a comprehensive audit of all orphanages in the regency to address systemic oversight failures. The orphanage owner, Jro Mangku Wijaya Dangin, has been named a suspect, with the council calling for maximum penalties if guilt is proven and full support for the victims' recovery. This case highlights critical gaps in child protection within social welfare institutions, prompting calls for stricter supervision and evaluation by local authorities.

Prabowo Receives The Grand Order of Mugunghwa, Equivalent to Queen Elizabeth II and Macron

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has been awarded The Grand Order of Mugunghwa, South Korea's highest national honour, by President Lee Jae Myung during a friendship event at the Blue House. This prestigious decoration, first bestowed in 1949, recognises extraordinary contributions to South Korea's development and security and has been given to over 100 global figures, including Queen Elizabeth II and King Hussein of Jordan. The award underscores the strengthening diplomatic ties between Indonesia and South Korea, placing Prabowo in elite company among world leaders.

Hitachi Launches HMAX Energy, Offering AI Solutions to Protect Critical Energy Infrastructure

Hitachi Energy has introduced HMAX Energy, a suite of AI-based services and solutions designed to safeguard critical energy infrastructure while enhancing operational efficiency. The initiative addresses challenges such as aging power grids, supply chain pressures, and rising energy demands by optimising asset planning, prediction, and prevention through trusted customer partnerships. As part of Hitachi's broader HMAX AI portfolio under the Lumada 3.0 strategy, HMAX Energy integrates advanced AI capabilities across the energy value chain, from equipment like switchgear and transformers to complex HVDC systems, structured around three pillars starting with data-driven planning.

PRR Task Force: Three types of emergency bridges knit connectivity in Sumatra

The Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (PRR) post-Sumatra disaster is rapidly constructing emergency bridges to restore connectivity disrupted by floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, employing three models: Bailey, Armco, and pioneer bridges, built collaboratively by TNI AD and Polri personnel. As of 31 March 2026, significant progress has been made, with most bridges in isolated areas completed, including 39 out of 41 Bailey bridges in Aceh and all 11 in West Sumatra. Task Force Chair Muhammad Tito Karnavian emphasised that efforts will extend beyond temporary fixes to permanent infrastructure to fully normalise transportation, mobility, logistics, and economic activity.

Global markets turn to Indonesian fertiliser amid disruptions: Govt

Amid disruptions in global fertiliser supplies caused by the Middle East conflict affecting the Strait of Hormuz, six countries including India, Brazil, Australia, and the Philippines are keen to import from Indonesia regardless of price, as stated by Trade Minister Sudaryono. Indonesia's production capacity stands at 14.5-15 million tons annually, with state-owned PT Pupuk Indonesia exporting 1.5-2 million tons of urea yearly while meeting domestic needs of seven million tons. This positions Indonesia as a key stabiliser in the global fertiliser market, where urea prices have surged to US$690 per ton from US$350-380 in early January 2026.

OJK Reveals Requirements for Submitting Board Packages to the Indonesia Stock Exchange

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has outlined the criteria for stock exchange members to nominate board packages for the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), requiring at least 10 eligible members based on trading volume, frequency, and activity over the past year from April 2025 to March 2026. Members must conduct thorough due diligence on candidates' competence, capacity, and integrity to ensure quality nominations, with submissions due by 4 May 2026. No packages have been registered yet, highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight in maintaining the exchange's leadership standards.

Nurhadi Sentenced to 5 Years, Trail of Rp137 Billion Fund Flow Uncovered

Former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi has been sentenced to five years in prison by the Jakarta Corruption Court for receiving gratuities and money laundering, with the court ordering him to repay Rp137.1 billion in illicit funds or face additional penalties. The ruling reveals a complex network of transactions involving his son-in-law, Rezky Herbiyono, including transfers from various individuals and companies used to acquire personal assets, despite some legitimate income from a bird's nest business. This conviction, lighter than the prosecutors' seven-year demand, marks Nurhadi's second corruption-related sentence, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat high-level graft in Indonesia's judiciary.

Health Ministry: Measles immunisation for healthcare workers to commence immediately after BPOM efficacy study clarification

The Indonesian Ministry of Health plans to promptly administer measles vaccinations to medical and healthcare personnel following clarification from the BPOM on efficacy studies for adults, addressing the vaccine's primary indication for children. Initial rollout will target 10 high-risk areas with the highest case numbers, including South Tangerang, Tangerang, and Central Jakarta, with potential expansion based on evaluation. Alongside vaccination, the ministry emphasises enhanced communication, education, and hygiene practices such as proper handwashing and mask usage to mitigate transmission risks among healthcare workers and the public.

Indonesia and South Korea deepen strategic ties on forest fire response

Indonesia and South Korea have signed two key cooperation documents in Seoul to enhance bilateral relations in the forestry sector, as part of President Prabowo Subianto's green diplomacy initiative. The agreements cover sustainable forest management, climate change mitigation, and a specific MoU on forest fire prevention, response, and recovery, incorporating advanced technologies like satellite monitoring. This partnership is expected to bolster Indonesia's preparedness against potential fires, particularly with the anticipated El Niño in 2026, and includes plans for knowledge exchange and joint projects.

Fishermen productivity doubles in Red and White Village pilot project

In the pilot Red and White Village (KNMP) project, fishermen in Biak Papua have seen their productivity double from 5.35 tons to 10.85 tons per year, with days at sea increasing by 44 percent, leading to a 75 percent rise in monthly income from Rp4.35 million to Rp7.73 million. The initiative, part of the government's quick win programs, has boosted added value from fish sales by 190 percent through improved processing, storage, and market access, strengthening Indonesia's marine sector and food security. Construction progress stands at 99.23 percent for Phase 1 and 16.68 percent for Phase 2, with plans to establish 1,000 locations by 2026 across 37 provinces.

Legal Practitioner Warns of Dangers of Information Warfare to National Security and Stability

Legal practitioner and columnist Agus Widjajanto has highlighted the potential links between recent violent incidents targeting critical figures and broader threats to Indonesia's national security, citing circulating intelligence among international hedge funds and banks indicating deliberate efforts to destabilise the country politically and security-wise. He emphasises the role of information warfare in shaping public opinion through media framing and exploitation of sensitive issues like human rights violations, which could undermine trust in state institutions, particularly in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region. Agus urges the public to enhance digital literacy and avoid unverified provocations, echoing President Prabowo Subianto's warnings about false flag operations and the openness of free speech in Indonesia.

Hundreds of Classrooms Damaged, Cianjur Education Office Requires Rp100 Billion Budget

In Cianjur Regency, West Java, over 800 primary and secondary school classrooms are damaged, necessitating the construction of 300 new ones and rehabilitation of 500 others, primarily due to the 2021 earthquake, ageing structures, and landslides. The local Education, Youth, and Sports Office estimates costs exceeding Rp100 billion, which cannot be fully covered by the regional budget, prompting proposals for central government assistance from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education. This situation underscores the urgent need for infrastructure investment to ensure safe learning environments in disaster-prone areas.

TASPEN Strengthens Bureaucratic Reform through SMAP ISO 37001:2025

PT TASPEN (Persero), a state-owned enterprise managing pensions and social security for civil servants, is enhancing its anti-bribery measures by implementing the SMAP ISO 37001:2025 system across all operations, aiming for zero bribery incidents in 2026. This initiative includes comprehensive risk controls, swift reporting mechanisms, and anti-corruption training, aligning with national goals to combat corruption and improve governance under President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita vision. By fostering a transparent and accountable environment, TASPEN supports broader bureaucratic reforms and ensures the integrity of public funds.

Beaten and Starved, Indonesian Woman Becomes Victim of Modern Slavery in Australia

An Indonesian woman was allegedly subjected to modern slavery by a Malaysian couple in Melbourne, where she endured beatings, food deprivation, and forced labour for months after being tricked into working off a fabricated debt. The trial in Victoria's County Court revealed how her illegal immigration status made her vulnerable to exploitation, with the husband accused of enslaving her and the wife of aiding the abuse. The case highlights the perils faced by vulnerable migrants and has prompted a police investigation after a nurse reported the abuse.

Ministry of Agriculture: CPO Downstreaming Strengthens National Energy-Economic Independence

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture emphasises that downstreaming crude palm oil (CPO) is a vital strategy to bolster the national economy, achieve energy independence, and enhance farmers' welfare, leveraging Indonesia's position as the world's largest CPO producer with over 60% of global output. By processing CPO into high-value products such as processed foods, cosmetics, oleochemicals, and biofuels like B50 biodiesel, the country can reduce solar fuel imports, save foreign exchange, and gain leverage in global markets. This approach not only increases product value by 3 to over 30 times but also supports robust sector growth, with 2025 production rising 7.26% and exports surging 29.23% in value, ultimately improving farmers' exchange rates to a record high.

South Korea calls Indonesia its sole special strategic partner

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has designated Indonesia as the country's sole special strategic partner, highlighting its unique value amid geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties. During a bilateral summit at the Blue House in Seoul, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and President Lee discussed deepening cooperation in strategic sectors, following a warm diplomatic reception. This elevation of ties underscores the expanding partnership between the two nations, with key ministers from both sides in attendance to advance mutual interests.

Samsung Phone Prices Rise by Rp 2 Million in Korea, Here's the Situation in Indonesia

Samsung is considering a price increase for its flagship models, including the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and Galaxy S25 Edge, in South Korea starting 1 April 2026, driven by the global memory chip shortage exacerbated by AI demand. High-storage variants (512GB and 1TB) will see hikes of up to 200,000 won (approximately Rp 2.2 million), while lower-capacity models remain unaffected for now. In Indonesia, prices for available models like the Galaxy Z Fold 7 512GB have not yet risen, remaining at Rp 30,499,000, though the impact on other markets remains uncertain amid weakening won and stable Western prices.

Energy crisis: EU citizens urged to work from home, reduce vehicle speeds

The European Union is urging its citizens to work from home and lower maximum speeds on motorways by 10 km/h amid an energy crisis triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen emphasised the need to conserve oil, especially diesel and jet fuel, and encouraged the use of public transport and efficient driving practices. The conflict involving the US-Israel and Iran has led to shipping restrictions, causing global oil supply shortages, price surges, and increased shipping and insurance costs.

IESR Warns of Energy Supply Risks Despite Easing Middle East Conflict

The Institute for Essential Services Reform (IESR) has cautioned the Indonesian government and market players to remain vigilant regarding lingering impacts on global energy supplies, even as the Middle East conflict appears to be subsiding. CEO Fabby Tumiwa highlighted that while US President Donald Trump's statements offer hope for resolution within weeks, damage to production facilities like LNG terminals in Qatar could take months or years to repair, potentially pressuring international energy prices. He stressed the need for anticipatory measures to secure domestic supplies and accelerate energy diversification to reduce reliance on imports from conflict-prone regions.

Geopolitical Situation and High Demand Drive CPO Price Increase

The Indonesian Ministry of Trade has set the reference price for crude palm oil (CPO) export duties and levies at $989.63 per metric tonne for April 2026, marking an increase of $50.76 from March's $938.87 per tonne. This rise is attributed to heightened global demand and the impact of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. As a key export commodity for Indonesia, this price adjustment could bolster revenues for palm oil producers amid volatile international markets.

To Attract Investors, Majalengka Regent Promises Investment Facilitation

Majalengka Regent Eman Suherman has pledged full support and ease of investment for the development of industrial facilities at the Kertajati International Industrial Estate (KIEM), aiming to boost local economic growth and create jobs. The groundbreaking ceremony marks a strategic step to position Majalengka as a new economic hub in West Java, particularly in the Rebana area, while enhancing regional competitiveness and benefiting sectors like SMEs and supporting infrastructure. The local government commits to a conducive, safe, and sustainable investment climate to attract substantial capital inflows and improve community welfare.

20 Private Trucks Deployed to Transport Rubbish at Kramat Jati Main Market TPS

Authorities in East Jakarta are deploying 20 private trucks to accelerate the removal of accumulated rubbish at the Temporary Waste Collection Site (TPS) in Kramat Jati Main Market, following significant pile-ups that have disrupted trading activities and damaged surrounding infrastructure. This privatisation effort, in line with applicable regulations, involves collaboration with licensed third parties and supplements ongoing government assistance from the East Jakarta Environmental Office, which has provided 13 trucks. The initiative aims to swiftly resolve the environmental hazards posed by the six-metre-high waste mounds, including foul odours, blockages in drainage systems, and risks to nearby residential areas used by children and residents.

Taking a Look at the New Homes for Residents Relocated from Cemetery Land in West Jakarta, No More Muddy Conditions

Residents from Pegadungan and Kamal in Kalideres, West Jakarta, previously living on land designated as a cemetery owned by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, have been relocated to the Tegal Alur Simple Rental Flats (Rusunawa), offering significantly improved living conditions compared to their former semi-permanent homes on swampy, flood-prone areas. A visit to resident Kori Temu's 36-square-metre unit on the fifth floor revealed a clean, comfortable space with separate bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, and modern amenities like passenger and goods lifts, enhancing daily life for families. This relocation initiative by the government underscores efforts to provide decent housing and address urban land use challenges in densely populated areas.

Trump States US Will Soon Exit Iran and Expresses Disappointment with NATO

US President Donald Trump announced that the US military operations in Iran are nearing completion, claiming the primary goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons has been achieved, while leaving open the possibility of negotiations or further strikes if no deal is reached. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Washington will review its relationship with NATO post-conflict, criticising European allies for insufficient involvement and highlighting the alliance's potential imbalance. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed receiving direct messages from the US but denied ongoing negotiations, demanding guarantees against future attacks and compensation, amid calls from Pope Leo XIV for Trump to seek a peaceful resolution to the escalating violence.

Government Urged to Evaluate WFH Policy for Civil Servants Every Two Weeks on Fridays

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission II, Deddy Sitorus, has called for an immediate evaluation of the government's new work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) every Friday, questioning its effectiveness in reducing fuel consumption amid potential long weekends. The policy, introduced by Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto as an energy-saving measure, selects Fridays due to shorter working hours, while ensuring public services continue uninterrupted. Deddy emphasised the need for comprehensive assessments considering psychosocial impacts, economic projections, and mobility patterns before deciding on such implementations, especially with ongoing Middle East conflicts potentially prolonging fuel price pressures.

Indonesia and South Korea elevate ties to special comprehensive strategic partnership

President Prabowo Subianto has elevated Indonesia's special strategic partnership with South Korea to a special comprehensive strategic partnership, formalised through the signing of 10 memoranda of understanding across various sectors. This upgrade emphasises synergy between South Korea's advancements in industry, science, and technology and Indonesia's abundant natural resources and large market, aiming to deliver tangible benefits to both nations' peoples. Beyond economics, the leaders highlighted the partnership's role in promoting peace and stability amid global uncertainties, underscoring its strategic importance as Pacific nations.

Forest Fire Management Becomes One of the Focuses of Indonesia-South Korea Cooperation

Indonesia and South Korea have signed two key agreements to enhance strategic cooperation in sustainable forest management and forest fire handling, as part of President Prabowo Subianto's state visit to Seoul. The Framework Arrangement on Cooperation on Priority Program in Forestry aims to support climate change mitigation through initiatives like mangrove and peat rehabilitation, ecotourism development, social forestry, and strengthening forest carbon markets. Additionally, the MoU on Forest Fire Management and Post-Fire Recovery emphasises prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts, including satellite-based monitoring technology, with South Korea planning to launch a real-time monitoring satellite in 2026 that will cover 55% of Indonesia's territory, proving particularly vital amid potential El Niño events.

Sleman Regency Government Rejects WFH Policy for Civil Servants Every Friday, Here's Why

The Sleman Regency Government in Yogyakarta has decided not to implement the central government's work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) on Fridays, prioritising optimal public service delivery. Regent Harda Kiswaya explained that local operations and direct public interactions make WFH impractical, despite the Ministry of Home Affairs' circular mandating one WFH day per week starting 1 April 2026. This stance highlights tensions between national directives and regional needs in Indonesia's administrative framework.

Electricity Tariffs Confirmed to Remain Unchanged in April, Here's PLN Boss's Response

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has officially decided to keep PT PLN's electricity tariffs unchanged for the second quarter of 2026 (April to June), applying to both subsidised and non-subsidised customers, as a government intervention to safeguard public purchasing power and national industrial competitiveness amid global economic uncertainties. This decision overrides potential adjustments based on macroeconomic indicators like the rupiah exchange rate, oil prices, inflation, and coal reference prices, in line with regulations. PLN's CEO, Darmawan Prasodjo, welcomed the policy for providing certainty to households and businesses, reaffirming the company's commitment to reliable supply and operational efficiency.

Bank Jatim Closes 2025 with Solid Performance, Positive Profit Growth

PT Bank Pembangunan Daerah Jawa Timur Tbk (Bank Jatim) concluded 2025 with robust financial results, reporting a net profit of Rp1.54 trillion, a 20.65% increase year-on-year, driven by strategic asset management and digital expansion. The bank expanded its consolidated assets to Rp168.855 trillion, up 42.93% from 2024, while lending grew 46.65% to Rp110.503 trillion, reflecting effective risk controls and ecosystem-based business optimisation. As the parent to five regional development banks, Bank Jatim aims to maximise synergies in 2026 to enhance market share and sustainable growth.

KAI Addresses Travel Disruptions Caused by Landslide on Railway Line in Bandung Region

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) is actively managing a landslide on the railway track between Maswati and Sasaksaat stations in West Bandung, West Java, which has disrupted operations, particularly affecting the KA Ciremai train (174). The incident, which caused no injuries, has led to temporary closure of the affected line and adjustments to Jakarta-Bandung routes to ensure passenger safety and operational continuity. KAI apologises for the inconvenience and is prioritising swift resolution while providing ongoing updates to customers.

Megawati Threatens to Dismiss PDIP Regional Heads if They Fail to Serve the People

PDIP leader Megawati Soekarnoputri has warned regional heads from her party to improve their performance in advancing their areas, threatening dismissal for those who neglect public service. Speaking at an event on intellectual property and business management for SMEs in Klungkung, Bali, she expressed frustration over sluggish progress and emphasised the need for coordination and cooperation among cadres, including governors, regents, and DPR members. As head of the National Research and Innovation Agency's advisory board, Megawati also attended the presentation of intellectual property certificates to Balinese SMEs.

Courting Japanese Investors, Prabowo Showcases Debottlenecking Task Force to Ease Business in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto highlighted Indonesia's commitment to accelerating investment and economic growth by reducing bureaucratic hurdles during a speech at the Indonesia-Japan Business Forum in Tokyo. He praised the effectiveness of the Special Debottlenecking Task Force, led by Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, which addresses administrative obstacles for businesses, including foreign investors, and has already resolved several issues. This initiative, currently tackling delays in the major LNG Masela Block project operated by Japan's INPEX, aims to foster a healthier business climate and boost investor confidence.

SIG Posts Profit of Rp190.84 Billion in 2025

PT Semen Indonesia Tbk (SIG) recorded a net profit of Rp190.84 billion in 2025, marking a 73.48% decline from the previous year's Rp719.76 billion, amid a sluggish domestic cement market. Despite a slight dip in revenue to Rp35.24 trillion, the company maintained profitability through strategic initiatives, cost efficiencies, and a 14.3% growth in regional sales to 7.95 million tonnes. SIG remains optimistic about future growth, targeting exports from a new facility in Tuban, East Java, starting mid-2026, with an annual capacity of 500,000 to 1 million tonnes.

Private First Class Farizal Killed in Israeli Bombardment During Isha Prayer

Indonesian peacekeeper Private First Class (Praka) Farizal Rhomadhon was killed by an Israeli tank shell during Isha prayer at a UNIFIL outpost near Adchit Al Qusayr in Lebanon, amid escalating regional conflicts. The incident, confirmed by preliminary UN investigations, has left deep sorrow in his hometown of Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, with his body undergoing autopsy in Beirut before repatriation via transit countries like Egypt or Jordan. Upon return to Indonesia, he will receive full military honours as directed by the President, TNI Commander, and Army Chief, highlighting the risks faced by Indonesian troops in international peacekeeping missions.

Indonesian Manufacturing Remains Resilient Amid Global Pressures, PMI Stays in Expansion Zone

Indonesia's manufacturing sector demonstrated strong resilience in March 2026, with the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) holding steady at 50.1, indicating continued expansion despite global uncertainties such as geopolitical conflicts and supply chain disruptions. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita highlighted the sector's robust fundamentals, supported by stable domestic demand, positioning Indonesia competitively against regional peers like Thailand and Malaysia. This achievement underscores the ability of the national industry to withstand external pressures, including rising input costs and inflation.

Government Forms Energy Transition Task Force, Focusing on Solar Power Plants to Electric Motorcycle Conversion

The Indonesian government has established an energy transition task force under the direction of the President to enhance national energy resilience amid rising global fuel prices and import challenges. Led by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, the task force prioritises accelerating the development of solar power plants to a 100 GW capacity, converting 140 million petrol-based motorcycles to electric vehicles, and advancing biofuel programmes such as B50 biodiesel and E10 ethanol blends. These initiatives aim to optimise domestic energy utilisation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels in the face of global uncertainties.

Avtur Prices Surge to Rp 22-25 Thousand Per Litre

Avtur prices at airports across Indonesia have risen sharply to between Rp 22,707.92 and Rp 25,632.39 per litre in April 2026, up from Rp 13,656.51 to Rp 15,737.82 in March, driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Notable increases include a 72.45% hike at Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Rp 23,551.08 per litre and a 64.05% rise at Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai to Rp 25,343.01 per litre, with international flight prices also surging in US cents. The Indonesia National Air Carriers Association has urged the government to raise upper fare limits and fuel surcharges by 15% and provide operational stimuli amid weakening rupiah and global oil price volatility.

Metro Jaya Police Extend Detention of Richard Lee

Jakarta's Metro Jaya Police have extended the detention of doctor Richard Lee, suspected in a case of alleged consumer protection violations related to beauty products and treatments, for an additional 40 days until 5 May 2026. The case file was handed over to the Banten Attorney General's Office on 31 March, pending review for completeness, while Lee's initial detention stemmed from obstructing the investigation by skipping a scheduled examination to conduct a TikTok live. Lee faces charges under health and consumer protection laws, with potential penalties of up to 12 years imprisonment and fines exceeding Rp5 billion, highlighting regulatory enforcement in Indonesia's beauty industry.

Achievement of Sustainable Food Agriculture Land in New Provinces Reaches 68 Percent

The realisation of Sustainable Food Agriculture Land (LP2B) at the provincial level in Indonesia has reached only 68.03 percent of the total Raw Paddy Field Land (LBS), falling short of the national target set by the government. Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency, Nusron Wahid, emphasised the need to accelerate progress through revisions to spatial planning policies and the establishment of LP2B decrees by local governments during the transitional period. The ministry is committed to supporting food self-sufficiency by strengthening protections for agricultural land, including expediting the designation of Protected Paddy Fields (LSD) under Presidential Regulation No. 4 of 2026 to prevent land conversion.

Will NATO Dissolve? US to Review Relations with NATO

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated that Washington may review its relationship with NATO following the end of the conflict with Iran, questioning the alliance's strategic value amid limited European support. Rubio highlighted restrictions on US access to military bases in Europe, such as Italy denying landing permissions and Spain closing its airspace, which he argues undermines the purpose of NATO. The final decision rests with President Donald Trump, despite Rubio's past strong support for the alliance.

East Lombok Regency ready to facilitate improvement of MBG kitchen wastewater treatment system

The East Lombok Regency government in West Nusa Tenggara is prepared to assist in enhancing the wastewater treatment system (IPAL) for the temporarily closed kitchen of the free nutritious meal programme (MBG), following reports of non-compliance with operational standards. The Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) facility was shut down by the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) due to lacking a Sanitation Hygiene Certificate (SLHS) and an adequate IPAL, affecting 302 such units across NTB. This intervention underscores the importance of environmental and food safety regulations in government nutrition initiatives to prevent pollution and ensure public health.

Minister of Housing: Plan to Build 300 Flats for Residents Along Senen Railway Tracks

Indonesia's Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas, Maruarar Sirait, has announced plans to construct 300 units of affordable flats on land owned by PT Angkasa Pura in Senen, Central Jakarta, targeted for completion by 15 June 2026, as part of relocating residents from railway tracksides. An additional 500 units will be built on PT Kereta Api Indonesia's land in Tanah Abang, also due by the same date, under a new initiative led by the Head of the State-Owned Enterprises Regulatory Body focusing on completion timelines to address Jakarta's massive housing backlog swiftly. This project, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, involves synergy among central government, local authorities, SOEs, and private sectors, with ongoing mapping of underutilised SOE assets to support rapid housing development in high-need urban areas.

Purbaya: Pertamina Temporarily Covers Non-Subsidised Fuel Price Differential

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that Pertamina is temporarily absorbing the price difference for non-subsidised fuels amid surging global oil prices, without any immediate adjustments. This arrangement is supported by the government's smooth monthly compensation payments, which cover 70% of the differentials for subsidised fuels like Pertalite, ensuring Pertamina's financial stability. The decision follows coordination with the Energy Ministry and aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives to maintain stable fuel prices and prevent public panic, as global Brent and WTI oil prices hover around $100 per barrel.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education: Schools Can Borrow Computers for Academic Ability Test

Indonesia's Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology has arranged for schools lacking computers to borrow them from others to facilitate the computer-based Academic Ability Test (TKA) for primary and junior secondary students. The TKA, scheduled for April 2026, assesses only Indonesian language and mathematics and does not determine graduation, with strict penalties for cheating to uphold integrity. This initiative ensures equitable access and transparency in educational assessments across all schools.