Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

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Danantara Indonesia Announces Investment in Labuan Bajo to Boost Tourism

Danantara Indonesia has announced a strategic greenfield investment in Labuan Bajo to enhance Indonesia's tourism sector and stimulate the local economy in eastern Indonesia. The project, developed in partnership with the Qatar Investment Authority, aims to create jobs, increase tourist arrivals, and promote natural and cultural attractions near Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This initiative underscores Danantara's commitment to disciplined investing that delivers both financial returns and long-term socio-economic benefits for the nation.

Karo District Prosecutor's Office Considers Appeal Against Acquittal of Amsal Sitepu

The Karo District Prosecutor's Office has expressed its intention to deliberate for seven days on the acquittal verdict for Amsal Christy Sitepu in a corruption case involving a village profile video project in North Sumatra's Karo Regency. Despite the prosecutors demanding a two-year prison sentence, a Rp50 million fine, and repayment of Rp202.16 million in state losses, the Corruption Court at Medan District Court ruled that Sitepu was not proven guilty of corruption under either primary or alternative charges. The office respects the judges' decision but will consult leadership on potential further legal actions, highlighting ongoing tensions in Indonesia's anti-corruption enforcement.

Prabowo Appreciates Welcome from South Korean President: As a Former Soldier, I Feel Honoured

President Prabowo Subianto expressed profound appreciation for the warm traditional welcome by South Korean forces during his state visit to Seoul, feeling particularly honoured as a former soldier. He emphasised the importance of strengthening bilateral ties between Indonesia and South Korea, acknowledging the ups and downs in long-term relationships but stressing mutual interests, shared middle-power concerns, and complementary strengths in technology and natural resources. The visit underscores opportunities for enhanced cooperation in trade, security, and prosperity in the Pacific region.

Axios Hit by Cyber Attack, Apple and Windows Also at Risk

A popular JavaScript library, Axios, widely used in global applications, was targeted in a cyber attack on Monday (30/3/2026), involving malware insertion via its npm account, potentially affecting major tech firms like Apple and Microsoft. The attack, classified as a supply chain assault linked to North Korean hackers UNC1069, exploited the library's role in data communication, allowing remote access and data theft without immediate detection. This incident underscores vulnerabilities in open-source software dependencies, prompting urgent calls for system audits and updates to mitigate widespread risks.

Rupiah Moves Fluctuantly Amid Dominance of External Pressures

The Indonesian rupiah strengthened by 58 points or 0.34% to Rp16,983 per US dollar at Wednesday's close, despite the Bank Indonesia's JISDOR rate weakening slightly to Rp17,002. Analysts attribute the currency's volatile movements to global factors including a strong US dollar, rising financial market uncertainties, and elevated oil prices due to escalating Middle East conflicts, which are shifting investments towards safer assets and pressuring emerging market currencies. Domestically, Bank Indonesia's policies aim to maintain forex stability and liquidity, though global dynamics remain the primary driver in the short term.

Parliament to Summon Karo District Prosecutor, Suspecting Resistance from Law Enforcement After Amsal Sitepu's Release

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III, led by Habiburokhman, plans to summon the Karo District Prosecutor's Office and the Prosecutorial Commission to investigate the controversy surrounding videographer Amsal Sitepu's release on suspension of detention. The commission suspects resistance from lower-level prosecutors, including delays in processing Sitepu's release despite court approval and possible orchestration of protests against parliamentary intervention. This action underscores ongoing tensions between legislative oversight and prosecutorial practices, with Habiburokhman expressing disappointment over the local office's stance contrasting with reformist leadership at the Attorney General's Office.

The 25th ATV International Audit Seminar Discusses the Transformation of Auditors' Roles in the Digital Era

The 25th ATV International Audit Seminar, held at Universitas Indonesia, brought together regulators, audit practitioners, academics, and students to explore how auditors must adapt their roles amid rapid digitalisation, focusing on technologies like AI, data analytics, automation, and blockchain. Key speakers, including representatives from OJK and international experts, emphasised redefining responsibilities, reassessing risks, and strengthening governance to ensure audit integrity and public trust in Indonesia's evolving business ecosystem. Discussions highlighted AI's role as a supportive tool for enhancing efficiency in auditing processes while underscoring the irreplaceable need for human oversight and professional judgement.

HIPMI Views WFH as Adaptive Measure to Counter Energy Price Pressures

The Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association (HIPMI) has praised the government's work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants as an adaptive response to global energy price pressures and rising transportation costs. While supporting the measure for its potential to reduce fuel consumption and operational expenses, HIPMI emphasises the need for flexibility across sectors, noting that full implementation may not suit industries like manufacturing and logistics. The policy, effective from April 2026, also includes recommendations for the private sector, with education remaining largely in-person except for higher education adjustments.

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture: Empowering Women is Key to Producing Superior Generations

Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture, Pratikno, has emphasised that empowering women, particularly through education, is a strategic key to fostering superior generations and strengthening the nation's development foundation. He highlighted the central role of mothers as the first educators who shape children's character and human resource quality from an early age, stating that investing in women's education yields multiplied benefits for future generations. The launch of the Women's Empowerment Month through Education in April 2026 involves collaborative efforts across stakeholders to enhance family quality, social resilience, and an inclusive society.

Rupiah at Its Weakest in History: How the Current Situation Differs from 1998!

The Indonesian rupiah hit a historic low, briefly surpassing the psychological threshold of Rp17,000 against the US dollar on 1 April 2026, before rebounding slightly. While this level evokes memories of the 1998 financial crisis, experts emphasise key differences: the current depreciation is gradual at just 0.62% over a week and 1.7% year-to-date, unlike the sharp 153% plunge in 1998 amid political turmoil and systemic panic. This suggests vigilance is warranted but panic is premature, as the rupiah's controlled weakening indicates manageable external and domestic pressures.

How to Check Land Certificates Online, Practically Directly from Your Mobile Phone

The Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency (ATR/BPN) has launched the Sentuh Tanahku app, allowing Indonesians to check land certificate information online via their mobile phones, enhancing transparency and accessibility in land services. The app features searches for both physical and electronic certificates, displaying land plot locations on maps without revealing area or owner details. This digital initiative supports broader efforts in land digitisation, with related regulations like PP 34/2016 governing inheritance taxes on land transfers.

House Commission III Praises Judge's Decision to Acquit Amsal Sitepu

The House of Representatives' Commission III has expressed high appreciation for the Medan District Court's decision to acquit videographer Amsal Sitepu, who was charged with corruption over an allegedly marked-up video project for a village profile in North Sumatra's Karo Regency. Commission Chairman Habiburokhman highlighted the ruling as a victory for justice, particularly for creative workers in Indonesia, emphasising the subjective nature of pricing in creative industries and the commission's active involvement in ensuring a fair process. This case underscores the need to distinguish between creative services and physical procurement in anti-corruption laws, potentially setting a precedent for protecting professionals in the creative sector.

Mataram City Government Continues Distribution of Food Assistance to 46,983 Food Aid Recipients

The Mataram City Government in West Nusa Tenggara Province is resuming the distribution of food aid, consisting of rice and cooking oil, to 46,983 recipient households across 47 urban villages, following an initial rollout to three areas before the Eid al-Fitr holidays in 2026. This programme, which provides 10 kg of rice and 2 litres of oil per household monthly, aims to alleviate the financial burden on poor and vulnerable families, prevent food insecurity, reduce stunting rates, and stabilise essential commodity prices. The number of recipients has increased by approximately 15,000 households from the previous year, based on recommendations from local officials and processed through the national social and economic data system, with quality checks ensuring high standards of the distributed rice.

Anabatic (ATIC) Profits Grow 13.2%, Digital Strategy Key

PT Anabatic Technologies Tbk (ATIC) reported a 13.2% increase in net profit for 2025, reaching Rp334.3 billion, driven by its focus on strengthening digital solutions and services amid intensifying industry competition. The company's revenue rose to Rp8.47 trillion, reflecting improvements in corporate governance, financial discipline, and internal competencies. Anabatic remains committed to innovation and diversification to support Indonesia's digital transformation, positioning itself as a key technology partner across sectors.

Director General of Immigration to Discuss Strategy to Address Extortion by Rogue Officials with Directors

The Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, has announced plans to convene with directors to devise strategies combating extortion by rogue staff within the immigration service. This follows swift internal action against officers implicated in extorting a Singaporean citizen at Batam's Immigration Office, including sanctions to prevent recurrence. Emphasising a root-cause approach over patchwork solutions, Hendarsam stresses the need for robust systems and guidelines to eliminate such violations permanently.

Former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison in Gratification and Money Laundering Case

Former Supreme Court Secretary Nurhadi has been sentenced to five years in prison and fined Rp 500 million for receiving gratifications worth Rp 137.1 billion and money laundering, linked to his position from 2011 to 2016. The funds, transferred through his son-in-law's accounts and others, were bribes for favourable court decisions in civil cases at the Supreme Court. The court rejected Nurhadi's defence, citing his close relationship with his son-in-law Rezky Herbiyono, with whom he lived, as evidence of shared benefit.

Batam Petrol Stations Busy as Residents Anticipate Fuel Price Hike

Fuel stations in Batam are experiencing a surge in crowds as locals rush to fill up their vehicles amid rumours of an impending increase in fuel prices. Although Pertamina has assured the public that no official price adjustment has been announced and prices remain stable, with Pertalite at Rp10,000 per litre, the anticipation has led to precautionary measures by residents. This situation highlights ongoing public sensitivity to energy policy changes and the need for transparent government communication to prevent unnecessary panic.

Astra launches “kick-off” for SATU Indonesia Awards 2026, embracing the theme “Connected in Action”

PT Astra International has kicked off the 17th SATU Indonesia Awards 2026 in Jakarta, themed “Connected in Action,” aiming to identify and connect inspiring young initiatives in health, education, environment, entrepreneurship, and economy for broader societal impact. The programme strengthens synergies with Astra's Desa Sejahtera Astra initiative, which supports 1,533 villages across 35 provinces, by encouraging award recipients to act as local champions for sustainable community development. This aligns with Astra's commitment to fostering youth-led change in line with Indonesia's Sustainable Development Goals.

Indonesia and Japan to enhance cooperation in forestry and carbon trading

Indonesia and Japan have agreed to deepen their collaboration in sustainable forest management, carbon trading, and wildlife conservation, including initiatives like the Carbon Economic Value scheme and voluntary carbon markets to attract investments. Key discussions involved support from Japan's JICA for mangrove management, the development of the World Mangrove Center as a global hub for ecosystem rehabilitation and climate adaptation, and a Komodo dragon breeding programme with Shizuoka Prefecture. This partnership positions Indonesia as a strategic ally in Japan's forestry efforts, fostering knowledge exchange, private sector involvement, and innovative funding through mechanisms like the Joint Crediting Mechanism to advance environmental protection and economic opportunities.

Labourer's Confession in Gianyar Foreman's Slashing: Only 3 Days on the Job, Frequently Scolded

In a trial at the Gianyar District Court, 20-year-old worker M Fais recounted enduring frequent scoldings and slaps from his foreman, I Wayan Sedhana, just three days into a subak irrigation project in Bali. The situation escalated on 24 October 2025 when a dispute led to Sedhana being struck with a hoe by co-worker Nurul Arifin, followed by further assaults resulting in his death by throat slashing. The three labourers, including Fais, fled to East Java but were arrested four days later and now face charges of premeditated murder under Indonesian law, potentially carrying the death penalty.

Semen Indonesia Records Net Profit of Rp190.84 Billion in 2025

State-owned cement producer PT Semen Indonesia Tbk (SIG) reported a net profit of Rp190.84 billion for 2025, marking a 73.48% decline from the previous year's Rp719.76 billion, amid a sluggish domestic market. The company sustained profitability through strategic initiatives, including business transformation focused on market management, cost efficiency, and product optimisation, which improved domestic sales in the latter half of the year. SIG is optimistic about future growth, targeting cement exports from a new Tuban facility starting mid-2026 in partnership with Taiheiyo Cement Corporation, alongside expansions into soil stabilisation.

Implementing WFH for Civil Servants Every Friday, Pramono: Working from Cafes Will Result in Sanctions

The Jakarta Provincial Government has introduced a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) every Friday, with strict monitoring and attendance requirements managed online by the regional personnel agency. Governor Pramono Anung emphasised that ASN must work exclusively from home, prohibiting operations from cafes or other locations, and barring the use of private vehicles in favour of public transport, with firm sanctions for violations. This measure aims to enhance efficiency and reduce urban congestion while ensuring accountability among public employees.

Malaysia Protects Local Brands, Requires BYD to Export 80% of Production

The Malaysian government, through its Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (Miti), has imposed a policy on Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD requiring 80% of its production from a Malaysian assembly plant to be exported, limiting domestic sales to 20% to safeguard local automakers like Proton and Perodua. This measure aims to position Malaysia as a regional production hub for electric vehicles while ensuring foreign investments contribute to export growth rather than competing directly in the affordable segment. Although BYD received manufacturing approval in September 2025, the stringent conditions have prompted the company to reconsider its investment plans, with the policy applying to all new automotive investors to foster a sustainable industry.

Ministry of Religious Affairs to Soon Open Selection for Majelis Masyayikh Members

The Ministry of Religious Affairs is preparing to launch the selection process for members of the Majelis Masyayikh for the 2026–2031 period, an independent body tasked with establishing quality assurance standards for pesantren education. Officials emphasise the need for a merit-based, transparent, and inclusive recruitment to ensure the council effectively safeguards and enhances the unique characteristics and competitiveness of Islamic boarding schools nationwide. This initiative is supported by ongoing efforts to strengthen legal foundations and funding mechanisms to enable robust implementation.

Jokowi Welcomes Iranian Ambassador, Embraces Call for Peace and End to War

President Joko Widodo has welcomed Iran's campaign for peace and urged an immediate halt to ongoing conflicts, emphasising the need for genuine international harmony during a meeting with Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Boroujerdi in Solo. The discussion highlighted the importance of strong diplomatic, economic, and geopolitical ties between Indonesia and Iran, while the ambassador expressed appreciation for Jokowi's leadership and conveyed condolences for the deaths of three Indonesian UN peacekeepers in Lebanon due to an Israeli attack. This encounter underscores Indonesia's commitment to global stability amid escalating Middle East tensions.

During Eid Exodus, Kuala Tanjung–Sinaksak Toll Road is the Busiest in Sumatra

The Kuala Tanjung–Tebing Tinggi–Parapat toll road recorded the highest traffic volume on the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road (JTTS) during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr homecoming and return period, with over 703,000 vehicles passing through. Overall, JTTS saw more than 3.3 million vehicles from 13 to 30 March 2026, marking an 84% increase from normal levels, with the Sigli–Banda Aceh section experiencing the highest surge of 236%. This surge underscores JTTS's growing role as a primary route for long-distance travel in Sumatra, supported by enhanced connectivity and traffic management strategies, including a 30% toll discount on seven sections.

Drone Attack Targets Kuwait International Airport, Fuel Tank Ablaze

Kuwaiti aviation authorities reported a drone attack on Kuwait International Airport on Wednesday, attributed to Iran and its supported armed groups, resulting in a major fire at a fuel storage facility with no casualties. Similar incidents occurred in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Dubai, amid escalating regional tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, highlighting heightened security risks to vital oil infrastructure in the Gulf. These attacks underscore Iran's threats to target energy facilities in retaliation, potentially disrupting global energy supplies.

Land and Sea Transport Passengers Surge in February 2026, Air Transport Plummets

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) reported a significant increase in land and sea passenger numbers in February 2026, ahead of the Idul Fitri holiday, with train passengers rising 2.94% to 43.27 million and domestic sea transport up 0.15% to 2.03 million. However, domestic air passengers fell 7.23% to 4.08 million, while international air travel declined 4.71% to 1.51 million. Cargo volumes across all modes showed declines, highlighting potential economic pressures on logistics amid rising travel demand.

Gus Salam Urges Independent Fact-Finding Team to Investigate Andrie Yunus Case

KH Abdussalam Shohib, known as Gus Salam, has called for an independent fact-finding team to investigate the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, amid public concerns over transparency and potential manipulation in the case's handling by police and TNI authorities. He highlights discrepancies in suspect identifications and the resignation of a TNI intelligence chief as evidence of deeper issues, drawing parallels to the attack on KPK investigator Novel Baswedan. Gus Salam emphasises the state's duty to protect critical voices and ensure justice, underscoring the risks to civil society advocates challenging state power.

Ministry of Law Targets ISA Status to Establish World-Class Intellectual Property Office

The Indonesian Ministry of Law is aiming to achieve International Searching Authority (ISA) status under the Patent Cooperation Treaty to elevate its intellectual property office to world-class standards, leveraging the country's independent systems and abundant young human resources. This commitment involves coordinated efforts across directorates to strengthen regulations, international cooperation, and digital infrastructure, with a detailed work calendar and monthly monitoring to ensure completion of all administrative and technical stages by year-end. Achieving ISA status would grant Indonesia the authority to conduct international patent searches and provide written opinions on inventions, positioning it competitively against regional neighbours like the Philippines and Singapore.

Ramadan 2026 Trends: Consumers Begin Choosing High-Value Products

During Ramadan 2026, Indonesian consumers shifted towards purchasing higher-quality and premium products online, reflected in a significant increase in order values rather than just transaction volumes on platforms like Lazada. Sales in LazMall surged up to 3.5 times normal levels, with fashion, household essentials, and electronics categories experiencing the highest growth of 5, 4.5, and 4 times respectively, driven by preparations for the holy month and Eid al-Fitr celebrations. This trend, including a 2.5-fold increase in high-value car sales, underscores growing consumer confidence in Indonesia's digital shopping ecosystem, particularly as holiday allowances (THR) are disbursed.

Can ASN Work from Home Reduce National Fuel Consumption? Celios Analysis

The Indonesian government's policy of implementing work from home (WFH) for civil servants one day a week is unlikely to significantly impact national fuel oil (BBM) consumption, according to analysis by the Center of Economic and Law Studies (CELIOS), as consumption is primarily driven by logistics and industry rather than public sector commuting. While the government anticipates savings of up to Rp 6.2 trillion in fuel subsidies, CELIOS argues that any reductions may be offset by increased household energy use and potential productivity losses, urging a focus on larger sectors for meaningful energy efficiency. This policy forms part of broader efforts to adapt to global economic pressures and transform national work culture.

Drains and Canals in Ancol Smell Similar to Human Faeces, DLH Reveals the Source

Residents and commuters in Ancol, North Jakarta, are plagued by a foul odour resembling human faeces emanating from local canals and drains along Jalan Karang Bolong Raya and Jalan Ancol Barat I. The stench, which persists strongly during the day and penetrates masks, has raised health concerns among locals, including vendors who have grown accustomed to it over years. Environmental authorities attribute the issue to long-standing pollution from nearby factories, highlighting ongoing challenges in urban waste management and regulation in densely industrialised areas.

NTB Civil Servants Subject to Friday WFH to Be Monitored via GPS

The West Nusa Tenggara provincial government plans to implement a work-from-home policy for civil servants every Friday starting next week, with monitoring via GPS on their mobile phones to ensure compliance and performance. The policy aims to save on fuel costs but excludes essential public service and emergency roles, while maintaining full attendance credits for participants. Sanctions will apply for non-compliance, though the implementation guidelines are still under discussion.

This is the modus operandi used by counterfeit money distributors in Bogor

Jakarta's Metro Jaya Police Directorate of Special Criminal Investigation has uncovered the operations of a 39-year-old counterfeit money distributor, MP, in Bogor, West Java, who printed fake Rp100,000 notes using an Epson printer and genuine currency as templates before cutting them to resemble real bills. The suspect lured victims with promises of money multiplication through mystical practices, leading to his arrest in a Kemang hotel room after a two-week investigation prompted by public tips. Authorities seized counterfeit notes worth approximately Rp620 million and charged him under Indonesian Criminal Code articles related to currency forgery, facing up to 15 years in prison, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat financial fraud in the region.

Judicial Panel's Considerations in Acquitting Videographer Amsal Sitepu

A Medan court acquitted videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu of corruption charges related to alleged mark-up in producing village profile videos in North Sumatra's Karo Regency, funded by village development funds. The judges ruled that the prosecution failed to prove any unlawful acts, citing unclear work specifications in the contract and dismissing the audit's findings on state losses. This verdict highlights challenges in proving corruption in small-scale public projects and may prompt prosecutors to appeal.

Indonesia Strongly Condemns Israel's Legalisation of Death Penalty for Palestinian Detainees

The Indonesian government has vehemently condemned the Israeli Knesset for approving a controversial bill that mandates the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of killing Israelis in acts classified as 'terrorism', while exempting Israeli Jews who kill Palestinians. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the law as unacceptable, violating justice and universal humanitarian values, and urged Israel to repeal it immediately, halt actions contravening international law, and protect Palestinian rights. This stance reaffirms Indonesia's unwavering support for the Palestinian struggle for independence with East Jerusalem as its capital, amid global criticism from the UN and human rights groups.

From Hormuz to Nusantara: Why Energy Resilience Cannot Be Delayed

The article highlights the vulnerabilities in global energy supply chains, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, where geopolitical tensions could disrupt oil flows and spike prices, severely impacting import-dependent nations like Indonesia. It argues that Indonesia's declining domestic production and rising consumption necessitate urgent measures to build energy resilience, including expanding reserves, diversifying imports, enhancing efficiency, and boosting domestic capacity through infrastructure and technology. This resilience is crucial for national sovereignty, fiscal stability, and sustainable growth amid an uncertain global landscape.

Medan District Court Acquits Amsal Sitepu in Village Video Corruption Case

The Medan District Court acquitted Amsal Christy Sitepu on Wednesday of corruption charges related to the markup of costs for producing village profile videos in North Sumatra's Karo Regency. The judges ruled that the prosecution failed to prove the charges, both primary and subsidiary, beyond a reasonable doubt. This verdict highlights the challenges in substantiating corruption allegations in local government projects.

KPK provides assistance for wealth report submission to Garuda's foreign directors

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is set to assist two foreign directors of state-owned airline PT Garuda Indonesia in completing their periodic 2025 wealth reports (LHKPN), as they are required to submit these despite not having done so by the March 31, 2026 deadline. The appointees, Balagopal Kunduvara as Finance and Risk Management Director and Neil Raymond Mills as Transformation Director, were selected in an extraordinary shareholders' meeting last October. This assistance underscores KPK's efforts to ensure compliance among state officials, including expatriates in SOE leadership roles, amid high overall reporting rates of over 91% among required officials.

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection: Many Girls Still Drop Out of School

Indonesia's Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, has highlighted that numerous girls are abandoning their education due to child marriages, economic constraints, and social norms favouring boys' schooling. She emphasised education as the cornerstone of women's empowerment, fostering confidence, expanding life choices, and improving decision-making at individual, family, and societal levels. The minister called for stronger gender justice in development to address challenges like limited gender understanding, uneven human resource capacities, and suboptimal cross-sectoral synergies, aiming for equitable and inclusive education through the "Month of Women's Empowerment Through Education" initiative.

Bandung Mayor Encourages Officials to Cycle to Work Every Friday, ASN WFH Under Strict Supervision

The Bandung City Government is implementing a Work From Home (WFH) scheme for civil servants with stringent digital oversight to ensure productivity, while leaders set an example by cycling to the office every Friday. Mayor Muhammad Farhan has exempted top officials from WFH, mandating their physical presence to keep government operations running smoothly. This initiative includes real-time location tracking via the Gercep Mobile app, regular activity monitoring, and quick response requirements, with sanctions planned for violations.

Latest Fuel Prices in ASEAN: Singapore the Most Expensive, Indonesia the Cheapest?

Amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving Iran, Israel, and the US, several Southeast Asian countries are raising their fuel prices, with Singapore having the highest at US$2.545 per litre for petrol and US$2.978 for diesel. In contrast, Indonesia's government has held domestic fuel prices steady, making it the cheapest in the region, with subsidised Pertalite at Rp10,000 per litre and unsubsidised Pertamax at Rp12,300. This comparison highlights Indonesia's policy of price stability against rising global oil costs, benefiting consumers but potentially straining state subsidies.

Exceeding Targets, DJKA's Motis Programme Transports 12,419 Eid Returnee Motorcycles

Indonesia's Directorate General of Railways (DJKA) under the Ministry of Transportation successfully exceeded its target in the 2026 Eid Motis programme, transporting 12,419 motorcycles—104.36% of the 11,900-unit quota—plus an additional 1,304 in contraflow services, promoting safer rail travel over road journeys. The programme's high uptake reflects strong public trust in its efficiency and comfort, with officials committing to evaluations and quota expansions to enhance future services. This initiative underscores government efforts to improve transportation safety and logistics during peak holiday periods through stakeholder synergy.

DPD Chairman Sultan B Najamudin Receives Honorary Doctorate from KMOU Busan

Sultan Baktiar Najamudin, Chairman of Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD RI), has been awarded an honorary Doctorate in International Regional Studies by Korea Maritime and Ocean University (KMOU) in Busan, South Korea, recognising his contributions to maritime-based international cooperation and advocacy for island and coastal communities. The ceremony, presided over by KMOU President Prof. Dr. Ryoo Dong-Keun, coincided with the launch of a Korea-Indonesia Maritime Cooperation Forum, highlighting the strategic importance of bilateral ties in advancing sustainable blue economy initiatives. This honour, the second of its kind from KMOU to an Indonesian figure after former President Megawati Soekarnoputri, underscores Najamudin's ongoing efforts to strengthen regional roles in national development and optimise Indonesia's maritime economic potential.

Bulog: Budget for Constructing 100 New Warehouses Reaches Rp5 Trillion

Perum Bulog has allocated approximately Rp5 trillion for the construction of 100 new warehouses and post-harvest infrastructure to strengthen Indonesia's national food system, as mandated by Presidential Regulation No. 14 of 2026. The budget breakdown includes Rp4.4 trillion for main infrastructure and Rp0.56 trillion for mechanisation, automation, and IT, with construction planned across 92 regencies in collaboration with state-owned enterprises and relevant ministries. This initiative aims to enhance national storage and harvest management capacity, currently in the planning phase involving feasibility studies and technical consultations.

Civil Servants Act on Contract Workers Challenged at Constitutional Court, Petitioners Question Uncertain Employment Status

The Civil Servants Act (UU ASN) provisions regarding Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK) have been challenged at the Constitutional Court by the Forum for Archipelagic Intellectual Aspirations (FAIN) and individual petitioners, who argue that they create employment uncertainty and discrimination compared to permanent civil servants (PNS). Specific phrases in Articles 34 and 52 are contested for potentially limiting PPPK's access to positions and allowing automatic contract termination without performance evaluations, violating principles of legal certainty, equality, and merit-based systems. The petitioners seek a constitutional interpretation to ensure non-discriminatory job filling and objective performance-based dismissals, aiming to provide job security and fairness for PPPK in Indonesia's national civil service framework.

Six-Metre-High Rubbish Piles Still Accumulating at Kramat Jati Main Market

Massive rubbish piles reaching up to six metres in height, primarily consisting of vegetable and fruit waste, continue to accumulate at Pasar Induk Kramat Jati in Jakarta, disrupting market activities and comfort for traders. Observations by Republika revealed no rubbish trucks transporting the waste to processing sites or TPST Bantargebang during a one-hour period on Wednesday morning. This ongoing issue highlights potential lapses in local waste management services, affecting daily operations at one of the city's key wholesale markets.

March 2026 Inflation Reaches 3.48 Percent, Influenced by Electricity Discounts from Last Year

Indonesia's annual inflation rate rose to 3.48 percent in March 2026, primarily due to a low-base effect from government electricity tariff discounts implemented in 2025, which had suppressed prices the previous year. The housing, water, electricity, and household fuel category saw the highest inflation at 7.24 percent, while food, beverages, and tobacco contributed 3.34 percent; all provinces recorded annual inflation, with Aceh at 5.31 percent and Lampung at 1.16 percent. BPS assesses that overall price pressures remain controlled, urging careful interpretation of the figures amid these comparative factors.

Government Maintains Electricity Tariffs for Q2 2026

The Indonesian government has decided to keep electricity tariffs unchanged for the second quarter of 2026 (April to June), following a comprehensive evaluation of macroeconomic parameters such as exchange rates, oil prices, inflation, and coal benchmarks. This decision aims to safeguard public purchasing power and national economic stability amid global geopolitical uncertainties, applying to both subsidised and non-subsidised customers. PLN's CEO has welcomed the policy, emphasising its role in providing certainty for households and businesses while ensuring reliable power supply.