Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

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Fuel Prices Not Increasing, Purbaya: Pertamina Bears It Temporarily

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that Pertamina is currently absorbing the cost of maintaining stable fuel prices in Indonesia despite global oil price fluctuations, without impacting the 2026 state budget's energy subsidies and compensations. He noted that improved government payments have strengthened Pertamina's liquidity, allowing it to handle short-term pressures effectively. While this may slightly raise the budget deficit to 2.9% of GDP, it remains within safe limits under the State Finance Law.

Ciputra Records Sales of Up to Rp500 Billion for Green Housing in Aerotropolis

Ciputra Group has achieved sales exceeding Rp500 billion in February 2026 from the launch of The Forestine, a green-concept residential area in CitraGarden City, West Jakarta, highlighting strong public interest in sustainable living. The 14-hectare development allocates over 25% to green open spaces, incorporates forest living standards from the Green Building Council Indonesia, and features modern amenities like smart home technology and artworks by Hendra Gunawan. Strategically located near Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, the project underscores Ciputra's commitment to environmentally conscious housing, supported by financing options from 18 partner banks to appeal to younger buyers like Generation Z.

TNI Chief Provides IDR 1.8 Billion Compensation to Families of Soldiers Killed in Lebanon

Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) Chief General Agus Subiyanto has reaffirmed the state's commitment to securing the rights and future of families of three soldiers killed during a UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, providing each family with approximately IDR 1.8 billion in compensation from various sources including insurance, UN benefits, and educational scholarships. This support includes posthumous promotions, full salary for 12 months, retirement savings, and IDR 30 million education scholarships for the deceased's children, underscoring Indonesia's dedication to its peacekeepers. The incident highlights the risks faced by Indonesian troops in volatile regions, with ongoing efforts to repatriate the bodies and treat the injured.

Defendant Challenges Criminal Code, Saldi Isra: Constitutional Court Not the Place to Test Court Rulings

A corruption defendant, Ngarijan Salim, has filed a judicial review at the Constitutional Court challenging Articles 603 and 604 of Indonesia's new Criminal Code (KUHP), which address unlawful enrichment and abuse of authority harming state finances. During the hearing, MK Justice Saldi Isra cautioned that the court is not the venue to challenge decisions from lower courts or the Supreme Court, urging the petitioner to pursue other legal remedies if dissatisfied with prior rulings. The case stems from allegations that Salim intervened in reducing the building area of his garment factory to evade taxes in Deli Serdang Regency, highlighting tensions between anti-corruption enforcement and constitutional challenges to new penal provisions.

Trump's Lawyer: King Charles May Have Already Embraced Islam

Rudy Giuliani, former New York Mayor and personal lawyer to Donald Trump, sparked controversy by claiming on a Piers Morgan podcast that King Charles III may have secretly converted to Islam and that Britain could become a Muslim nation within a decade. These unsubstantiated remarks, rooted in conspiracy theories, attack the monarch's known admiration for Islamic culture while defending US and Israeli military actions against Iran, portraying growing Muslim influence in the UK as a Tehran-driven threat. Giuliani's inflammatory rhetoric also denounces Sharia law as a "death cult," despite Sharia councils in Britain holding only informal advisory roles without legal authority.

Despite ASN Working from Home Every Wednesday, Public Services in Bekasi Ensured to Remain Normal

The Bekasi City Government has implemented a work-from-home policy for civil servants every Wednesday, yet public services continue to operate normally without significant disruptions. Head of the Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Agency, Priadi Santoso, confirmed that while a small portion of the 217 staff handle on-site duties, the majority work remotely and report tasks online, maintaining efficiency. This approach ensures that essential services from various agencies and banks at the Bekasi Public Service Mall remain accessible to the public.

Rp 7.2 Trillion Shrimp Pond Project in Sumba Funded by Foreign Loan

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries is funding a major integrated shrimp farming complex in Waingapu, East Sumba Regency, Nusa Tenggara Timur, with a total investment of Rp 7.2 trillion, primarily through a Rp 6.1 trillion foreign private credit scheme supplemented by Rp 1.1 trillion in domestic funds. Spanning a potential 2,150 hectares with 1,361 hectares developed, the project incorporates environmentally friendly practices from water intake to waste management, aiming to establish best practices in sustainable aquaculture. This initiative represents one of Indonesia's largest fisheries development efforts, enhancing local production and economic opportunities in the region.

Badung DLHK Monitors Illegal TPA in Kerobokan 24 Hours a Day

The Badung Environment and Cleanliness Service (DLHK) has cleaned up an illegal waste dump site in Kerobokan, North Kuta, and installed prohibition banners, with 24-hour surveillance to begin imminently to prevent further dumping. The vacant land, which has attracted plastic waste, food scraps, used goods, and construction debris, will be monitored in collaboration with the local village authority, who are tasked with tracing the owner to install fencing and maintain the property. This operation is part of a broader effort across six sub-districts in Badung Regency to curb illegal dumping, especially amid restrictions on waste transport to the Suwung landfill.

Jakarta Provincial Government Mandates Work from Home Every Friday, with These Exceptions

The Jakarta Provincial Government has introduced a policy requiring civil servants to work from home every Friday, aligning with central government directives and complementing a similar arrangement for public transport on Wednesdays. Exceptions apply to mid-level and entry-level officials, as well as public-facing roles in civil police, transportation, health, traffic management, and firefighting services, which must continue normal operations. The policy limits WFH participation to a maximum of 50% of staff to ensure service continuity, highlighting efforts to balance remote work with essential public functions in the capital.

Operation Ketupat 2026: Controlled Eid Exodus and Return Traffic Flows Leading to Reduced Road Accident Fatalities

Operation Ketupat 2026, under the command of Korlantas Polri and cross-sectoral synergy, successfully managed the historic peak of over 143 million travellers during the Eid exodus and return, utilising advanced technology like real-time monitoring via CCTV, digital traffic counters, and drones through the KM29 Command Centre. Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) and Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi praised the tight control and seamless collaboration that ensured safe and smooth journeys, with record-high daily departures from Jakarta reaching 270,315 vehicles and returns at 256,338, marking a 4.62% increase from the previous year. This operation not only set a new benchmark in traffic management but also contributed to a notable decline in road accident fatalities, reinforcing national efforts to safeguard the annual mudik tradition.

Live Streaming During Sahur Drives Surge in E-Commerce Transactions During Ramadan

Live streaming activities during sahur in Ramadan 2026 have led to a remarkable 15-fold increase in e-commerce transactions on platforms like TikTok Shop and Tokopedia, highlighting a shift towards real-time content influencing consumer buying decisions. This surge, supported by interactive features and campaigns such as Ramadan Ekstra Seru, has particularly boosted categories like Muslim fashion and food and beverages, with local brands experiencing significant sales growth. The trend underscores the integration of video content and community engagement as key drivers for e-commerce expansion during seasonal periods, contributing to the broader creative economy valued at Rp225 trillion.

Iran-US Conflict Makes Indonesia's Cement Industry Even Tougher

The escalating Iran-US conflict in the Middle East is exacerbating challenges for Indonesia's cement industry by driving up coal prices and freight costs, which significantly impact production expenses. Semen Indonesia's President Director, Indriefouny Indra, highlighted that energy costs constitute over 50% of production, compounded by supply disruptions including a force majeure declaration from petrochemical supplier Chandra Asri and delays in coal mine approvals. To counter weak domestic demand, the company is ramping up exports, underscoring the broader vulnerability of Indonesian manufacturing to global geopolitical tensions.

TNI Ensures Transparent Handling of Acid Attack Case

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has affirmed its commitment to transparency and professionalism in investigating the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, with four intelligence officers designated as suspects and detained since 18 March 2026 under charges of assault. Military police have examined witnesses, though efforts to question Yunus have been delayed due to health concerns and his protection under the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK). This case underscores the TNI's efforts to uphold justice and accountability in incidents involving its personnel.

Garuda Indonesia’s US$318 million loss reflects a deeper crisis in the country’s aviation sector

Garuda Indonesia reported a net loss of US$318 million in 2025, nearly five times the previous year's figure, amid broader challenges in the country's aviation industry including high fuel prices, fleet maintenance issues, and global supply chain disruptions. As the national flag carrier serving Indonesia's vast archipelago, its struggles raise concerns about connectivity for remote islands, despite repeated government funding and management changes. Analysts highlight structural issues like domestic fare caps and rising costs, exacerbated by geopolitical events such as the Iran war, underscoring the need for decisive measures to avert further losses.

KPK Searches PDIP's Ono Surono's Home in Connection with Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a search at the residence of West Java Provincial DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono, a PDIP cadre, as part of an ongoing investigation into bribery and gratuity allegations involving Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara. The probe centres on a Rp11.4 billion bribery scheme allegedly paid by businessman Sarjan to secure 2025 fiscal year projects, with intermediaries distributing the funds to Kuswara and various district officials. This development underscores the KPK's intensified efforts to combat corruption in local government procurement processes, potentially implicating further political figures within the PDIP party.

Labour Minister to Evaluate WFH Directive for Private Sector, SOEs, and Regional SOEs in Two Months

The Indonesian Ministry of Manpower will evaluate the work-from-home (WFH) policy for private sector employees, state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and regional SOEs after two months of implementation, starting from 1 April 2026, as part of an energy optimisation programme. Minister Yassierli emphasised that while the energy-saving aspects will continue, the WFH directive itself will be reviewed, with technical implementation left to individual companies in consultation with workers' unions. This evaluation aligns with a broader assessment of eight government policies, ensuring that wages, rights, and productivity remain unaffected during WFH.

Instagram Reportedly Preparing 'Stealth' Mode, Allowing Story Stalking Without Being Detected?

Instagram is testing a new subscription feature that enables users to view others' Stories anonymously, without their account names appearing in the viewer list, for a monthly fee of around $1 to $2. This premium service, currently under trial in countries like Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines, also includes options for more targeted audience lists and extending Story duration by an additional 24 hours. As part of Meta's strategy to introduce paid services, the initiative aims to identify valuable premium features for users, potentially boosting revenue in the competitive social media landscape.

Tourism Minister on the Impact of Middle East Conflict on Indonesia: Potential Loss of 60,752 Tourists

Indonesia's Tourism Minister, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, has warned that the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East could result in the loss of up to 60,752 international tourists and Rp 2.04 trillion in foreign exchange revenue over a 29-day period in early 2026, with 770 flights already cancelled from key Middle Eastern hubs. If the situation persists until year-end, the country might forgo 1.44 to 1.68 million visitors and Rp 48.3 to 56.5 trillion in revenue. Despite these challenges, the ministry remains committed to its target of 16 to 17.6 million foreign arrivals by implementing strategies such as diversifying markets towards Southeast and East Asia, enhancing digital promotions, and boosting domestic tourism.

Indonesia's Fuel Stocks Are Secure, Pertamina: Reserves Are in Sufficient Condition

Pertamina has assured that Indonesia's fuel stocks remain at safe levels, urging the public to use fuel wisely to maintain national energy resilience amid potential Middle East conflicts. Starting 1 April 2026, restrictions on subsidised fuel purchases have been imposed following a cabinet decision, with specific limits outlined for various regions and fuel types. This measure aims to prevent panic buying and ensure equitable distribution during the anticipated energy crisis.

Japan Breaks into the Top 5! Surpassing the US and South Korea in Foreign Investment Realisation in Q4-2025

Japan has surged into the top five countries for foreign direct investment realisation in Indonesia during the fourth quarter of 2025, displacing the United States and South Korea from their previous positions. This development highlights Japan's growing economic ties with Indonesia and underscores the success of bilateral investment initiatives. The shift signals increasing investor confidence in Indonesia's market amid global economic dynamics.

Farizon, Ford, and Sany: New Brands at GIICOMVEC 2026

The GAIKINDO Indonesia International Commercial Vehicle Expo (GIICOMVEC) 2026, set for 8-11 April at JIExpo Kemayoran in Jakarta, will feature three new brands—Farizon, Ford, and Sany—alongside established names like Daihatsu, Hino, and Toyota, showcasing the latest innovations in commercial vehicles. Amid ongoing industry challenges, the event highlights Indonesia's resilient automotive manufacturing sector, evidenced by positive export figures and global-standard production capabilities. Organised by GAIKINDO, GIICOMVEC serves as a strategic platform bridging producers and buyers, supported by over 35 ancillary industry brands and key sponsors, underscoring its role in advancing the nation's commercial vehicle market.

List of Ships Attacked in the Strait of Hormuz Since the Iran War Broke Out

Escalating conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran since late February 2026 has severely disrupted global trade routes in the Strait of Hormuz, with numerous commercial ships targeted by projectiles, drones, and explosions, leading to crew casualties, fires, and evacuations. Key incidents include attacks on oil tankers like the MKD Vyom and Hercules Star on 1 March, culminating in multiple strikes on 11 March that halted Iraqi oil port operations. This ongoing maritime aggression threatens worldwide oil and LNG shipments, prompting warnings from Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps and raising fears of broader economic fallout.

NasDem Supports WFH for Civil Servants Every Friday to Save Fuel, Calls for Regular Evaluations

NasDem politician Ujang Bey has endorsed the government's policy of implementing work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants (ASN) every Friday to conserve fuel amid global uncertainties like the Iran-Israel-US tensions. He stressed the need for ongoing evaluations to assess its effectiveness and potential adjustments, while warning against misuse by treating it as an extended weekend. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto explained the policy draws from post-COVID experiences, ensuring public services continue uninterrupted despite lighter workloads on Fridays.

KPK Searches Home of PDIP Politician Ono Surono in Connection with Ade Kuswara Bribery Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a search of the home of PDIP politician Ono Surono in Bandung as part of an ongoing investigation into a bribery case involving former Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang. The raid, which was still underway, relates to allegations of project kickbacks worth Rp 9.5 billion, with Ono previously questioned as a witness regarding potential fund flows from suspect Sarjan. This development underscores the KPK's efforts to combat corruption in local government projects, highlighting potential political involvement in the scandal.

Restrictions in Bantargebang cause rubbish accumulation in Pasar Minggu

Restrictions on waste dumping quotas at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site, imposed following a landslide on 8 March 2026, have led to significant rubbish build-up along Jalan Masjid Al-Makmur near Pasar Minggu Station in South Jakarta. Local environmental enforcement officer Ucok reported that the daily truck quota has been reduced from 308 to 190, forcing staggered collections and forcing temporary storage in unauthorised areas, despite bans under Jakarta's waste management regulations. He called for long-term government solutions to address capacity issues and improve regional waste handling systems amid ongoing challenges during holidays like Eid.

Strategic Collaboration between Indonesia and Korea Agrees on Green Energy Business - ESDM

Indonesia and South Korea have formalised a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on clean energy, signed by their respective ministers during a meeting between Presidents Prabowo Subianto and Lee Jae-myung in Seoul. The agreement focuses on advancing renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal, as well as future technologies like nuclear and hydrogen, while enhancing energy storage, efficiency, and supporting infrastructure for electric vehicles and remote islands. This collaboration aims to bolster energy independence, facilitate technology transfer, boost investments, and develop human resources amid global geopolitical uncertainties and fluctuating fossil fuel prices.

Pramono Officially Bans Certain DKI Civil Servants from WFH Every Friday, with Strict Sanctions

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has announced the implementation of a Work From Home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Friday, in line with central government directives, but with exemptions for essential public services such as health, fire brigades, and transportation. The policy applies to administrative staff with a quota of 25% to 50%, while strict monitoring including mobile attendance and bans on private vehicle use will be enforced to prevent misuse, with violators facing severe penalties. This measure complements the existing Wednesday public transport mandate for civil servants, aiming to optimise efficiency and compliance.

Suwung Landfill No Longer Accepts Organic Waste, Residents Must Manage It Themselves

The Suwung Landfill in Bali will cease accepting organic waste from 1 April 2026, in line with directives from the Minister of Environment, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, to accelerate source-based waste management systems at the village level. This policy shift addresses the high proportion of organic waste, which constitutes 65% of Bali's total waste and poses environmental risks such as methane emissions and leachate pollution. The Bali government is promoting community-led processing of organic waste into compost and providing support schemes, including communal facilities and village-level assistance, to foster sustainable and independent waste management practices.

Pramono Assures Continued Office Work Despite WFH Policy, Compares Himself to Journalists

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has confirmed that he and other key officials will continue working from the office as usual, exempting themselves from the central government's work-from-home (WFH) policy aimed at conserving fuel. Public service sectors such as health, transportation, and emergency response will remain operational on-site, while administrative roles may see up to 50% of civil servants working remotely under forthcoming guidelines. This approach ensures uninterrupted public services amid efforts to balance efficiency and essential governance functions.

Gibran Mourns Three TNI Soldiers Killed in Lebanon, Supports UN Investigation

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has expressed profound condolences over the deaths of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) personnel serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) peacekeeping mission. The soldiers—Captain Inf. Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Sertu Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Praka Farizal Rhomadhon—were killed in two separate attacks in southern Lebanon within 24 hours, which also injured five others. Gibran has pledged full support for a thorough UN investigation and careful handling of the incident as directed by President Prabowo, including efforts to repatriate the bodies.

Jamkrindo Syariah Records Net Profit of Rp 141.03 Billion in 2025

PT Penjaminan Jamkrindo Syariah achieved a significant net profit of Rp 141.03 billion in 2025, marking a substantial increase from Rp 54.11 billion the previous year, amid positive dynamics in the guarantee industry. The company's total assets grew to Rp 2.46 trillion, with equity strengthening to Rp 1.41 trillion, supported by improved operational performance and selective portfolio management. This robust financial health, audited with an unqualified opinion, underscores Jamkrindo Syariah's commitment to risk management and its role in supporting financing for micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM).

Companies Must Not Violate WFH Rules, Employees Should Report Directly to the Minister of Manpower

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has urged companies to adhere strictly to work-from-home (WFH) regulations without reducing workers' rights, emphasizing the availability of the "Lapor Menaker" complaint channel for reporting violations. The policy, set to take effect nationally from 1 April, aims to foster adaptive work practices while safeguarding employee benefits and contributing to national energy resilience amid government directives. Oversight will focus on preventing wage cuts or other detriments, with sanctions to follow any confirmed breaches.

BPS: Foreign Tourist Arrivals Grow 13.37% in February 2026

Indonesia's foreign tourist arrivals surged to 1.16 million in February 2026, marking a 13.37% year-on-year increase, with Chinese visitors showing the highest growth at 68.89%, according to Statistics Indonesia (BPS). Cumulatively, January-February 2026 saw 2.35 million arrivals, up 7.77% from the previous year, led by Malaysians, Chinese, and Singaporeans. Domestic travel and various transport modes also exhibited mixed trends, with rail and sea passengers rising while air travel declined, highlighting the tourism sector's post-pandemic recovery and its economic implications.

WIKA Gedung Secures New Contracts Worth Rp464.67 Billion by March 2026

PT Wijaya Karya Bangunan Gedung Tbk (WEGE), a state-owned construction firm, has secured new contracts valued at Rp464.67 billion by March 2026, encompassing projects such as the People's School, Bus Rapid Transit stops, and housing for civil servants and the Ministry of Public Works. The company reduced its total liabilities by 33.6% year-on-year to Rp2.07 trillion by the end of 2025, driven by significant repayment of short-term bank loans, while diversifying into property contributed Rp40.11 billion in revenue and maintained strong liquidity with Rp391.13 billion in cash equivalents. Despite a net loss of Rp630.25 billion in 2025 due to conservative accounting practices like asset impairment recognitions, WEGE improved its gearing ratio to 0.07 times and debt-to-equity ratio at 1.05 times, positioning it for a healthier balance sheet in 2026.

Indonesia initiates formation of Southeast Asia Fertiliser Association

PT Pupuk Indonesia, a state-owned enterprise, has led the establishment of the Southeast Asia Fertiliser Association (SEAFA) in collaboration with counterparts from Brunei and Malaysia, aiming to foster regional cooperation and ensure stable fertiliser supplies amid global disruptions. The initiative, declared at the Asia Fertiliser Conference 2026 in Bali, addresses challenges like the Middle East conflict impacting 30% of global fertiliser shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, while highlighting Indonesia's position as a major producer with an annual urea output of 9.4 million tonnes. This association is expected to amplify industry voices in ASEAN policy-making, promoting sustainable production and food security across the region.

BTN-BSN Subsidiary Achieves 72% Market Share in Subsidised Mortgages by March 2026

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) and its subsidiary PT Bank Syariah Nasional (BSN) have dominated the subsidised mortgage market with a 72% share, disbursing loans for 28,811 units. This achievement underscores BTN's pivotal role in financing affordable housing for low-income earners in Indonesia, with total credit disbursements reaching Rp341.16 trillion by February 2026 and significant growth in net interest income. The bank's ongoing collaboration with the government and developers aims to expand access and ensure equitable distribution of housing finance.

Amidst the Roar of War During Ramadan, Dompet Dhuafa Distributes Charity to 500 Survivors in Sudan

As Ramadan unfolds, the Indonesian humanitarian organisation Dompet Dhuafa has extended aid to 500 survivors in Sudan, where ongoing conflict has displaced millions and caused widespread hunger, killings, and sexual violence. The assistance, comprising essential supplies, targets vulnerable groups such as internally displaced persons, female-headed households, the elderly, disabled individuals, and orphaned children, funded by donations from Indonesian society including corporations. This initiative underscores Indonesian solidarity in addressing the humanitarian crisis that has persisted since 2023, aiming to alleviate nutritional deficiencies particularly among children amid the civil war.

Amsal Sitepu Acquitted, DPR's Commission III: Judges Must Understand Societal Values of Justice

The Chair of DPR's Commission III, Habiburokhman, has praised the Medan District Court judges for acquitting videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu in a corruption case involving a village profile video project in North Sumatra's Karo Regency. He emphasised that the judges properly applied Article 5 of the Judicial Power Law by considering societal notions of justice and the legal relationship between evidence and the alleged crime. This ruling highlights the importance of distinguishing creative work from standard procurement processes, restoring Sitepu's rights and reputation.

Rupiah Recovers Strength, US Dollar Closes Below Rp17,000

The Indonesian rupiah rebounded to close stronger against the US dollar on Wednesday, appreciating 0.09% to Rp16,975 per dollar despite briefly breaching the critical Rp17,000 level during the trading session. This volatility was driven by a mix of external factors, including global investor risk aversion amid the Middle East conflict and high oil prices, alongside domestic pressures from import demands and debt payments. Economists note that while external sentiments dominate, potential stabilisation could occur if pressures ease, highlighting ongoing concerns for Indonesia's state budget.

In Collaboration with BRIN and ANRI, Kowani Submits to UNESCO for Global Recognition

The Indonesian Women's Congress (Kowani) has launched a national strategic initiative, "Kowani Goes to UNESCO – Memory of the World," in partnership with the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) and the National Archives of the Republic of Indonesia (ANRI), to elevate the history of Indonesian women's struggles to international recognition. This effort aims to designate the archives of the Indonesian women's movement as a National Collective Memory through ANRI and nominate it to UNESCO's Memory of the World programme, highlighting contributions from the 1928 Indonesian Women's Congress onward in education, social, economic, and national development spheres. Scheduled for milestones in 2026, 2027, and 2028 to coincide with Kowani's centenary, the initiative calls for widespread participation to document and preserve this heritage as a global civilisational legacy.

Acquitted, Amsal Wants to Reunite with Family After 131 Days Apart

The Medan District Court acquitted videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu of charges related to allegedly marking up costs for producing village profile videos in North Sumatra's Karo Regency, a case that drew national attention due to concerns over the criminalisation of creative work. After 131 days in detention, Amsal expressed profound gratitude to the judges, President Prabowo Subianto, and the public, planning to return home to his family. The prosecution is considering an appeal, while parliamentary intervention highlighted the need for substantive justice in protecting Indonesia's creative industry from over-criminalisation.

Gibran Expresses Condolences over the Deaths of Three TNI Soldiers in Lebanon

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has expressed profound condolences for the deaths of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), killed in separate attacks on 29 and 30 March 2026. President Prabowo Subianto has instructed a thorough investigation by the United Nations and maximum efforts for the repatriation of the bodies, while also paying tribute to the soldiers' dedication on social media. This incident underscores the risks faced by Indonesian peacekeepers in international missions and highlights the nation's commitment to global peacekeeping efforts.

Behind Andrie Yunus's Wounds: Forgiving While Awaiting Justice

Indonesian activist Andrie Yunus, recovering from an acid attack at Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, has urged forgiveness towards his assailants for humanitarian reasons while insisting on full accountability for both the perpetrators and their intellectual backers. The incident occurred on 12 March 2026, following his involvement in protesting the TNI Bill working committee meeting in 2025, which drew ire from certain parties. Activists visiting him focused on light-hearted conversations to aid his recovery, highlighting the broader context of threats faced by human rights defenders in Indonesia.

Labour Minister Requests WFH Not to Reduce National Productivity

Indonesian Labour Minister Yassierli has urged the implementation of work-from-home (WFH) policies across state-owned enterprises, regional companies, and private sectors to avoid diminishing national productivity while promoting energy conservation amid rising global oil prices due to Middle East geopolitical tensions. The government has already introduced WFH for civil servants every Friday, ensuring that workers' wages, rights, and annual leave entitlements remain intact, with companies required to maintain service performance. This adaptive measure aims to foster collaboration between employers and unions for more efficient workplace practices without compromising economic growth.

17th SATU Indonesia Awards 2026 Officially Launched, Embracing the Spirit of “Connected in Action”

The 17th SATU Indonesia Awards 2026 has been officially launched by Astra, themed “Connected in Action,” aiming to connect and amplify the initiatives of inspiring young Indonesians for broader societal impact through collaboration and sustainable implementation. This edition strengthens ties with the Desa Sejahtera Astra programme, integrating award recipients as local champions to develop 1,533 villages across 35 provinces, building on the awards' legacy of recognising 792 contributors in health, education, environment, entrepreneurship, and technology since 2010. The initiative aligns with Astra's vision of shared prosperity and the Sustainable Development Goals, offering recipients Rp65 million in development funding and mentoring to foster lasting change in Indonesia.

China confirms three of its ships passed through Hormuz in recent days

China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, confirmed that three Chinese ships have recently navigated the Strait of Hormuz with assistance from relevant parties, amid concerns over maritime safety in the area. Mao expressed gratitude for the support and highlighted the strait’s critical role as an international shipping route for commodities and energy trade. China has called for an immediate ceasefire to restore peace and stability in the Gulf region.

Gibran Supports Full Investigation into Case of Fallen TNI Soldiers in Lebanon

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming has expressed full support for a comprehensive investigation by the UN into the deaths of three Indonesian TNI soldiers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), following an attack in the region. He emphasised the need for maximum efforts in repatriating the bodies and paid tribute to the soldiers' dedication to world peace, in line with President Prabowo's directives. Foreign Minister Sugiono has urged the UN Security Council to convene an emergency meeting and conduct a swift, transparent probe, while coordinating steps to de-escalate tensions and maintain regional stability.

AMAN Hopes Indigenous Peoples' Bill to be Passed by End of 2026 at Latest

The Aliansi Masyarakat Adat Nusantara (AMAN) has urged the Indonesian Parliament to expedite the passage of the Indigenous Peoples' Bill, ideally by the end of this year but no later than the end of 2026, during a public hearing with the Legislation Body. AMAN's Secretary General, Rukka Sombolinggi, praised the Parliament for adopting the term "masyarakat adat" in the bill's title and content, viewing it as a significant step towards recognising the long-standing struggles of indigenous communities since the 1980s. She emphasised the bill's urgency amid ongoing crises like climate change and social issues, highlighting indigenous peoples' vital role in preserving ecosystems and calling for legal protections to sustain their contributions.

Deputy Tourism Minister: Increase in Public Using Eid Holiday for Tourism

The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Enik Ermawati, reported a significant rise in the number of Indonesians travelling for tourism during this year's Eid holiday, with 12% of the population—equivalent to 17.27 million people—visiting destinations, up from 6.3% last year. Despite a decline in average family and per-person spending, the total tourism expenditure surged to Rp19.86 trillion from Rp11.04 trillion, contributing to an overall economic circulation of Rp165.7 trillion during the period. This shift towards experience-based consumption is boosting local economies, particularly in priority destinations like Borobudur and Danau Toba, where spending accounted for 61.8% of the national tourism total.

KNMP Programme Claimed to Boost Fishermen's Income by 75 Percent

The Presidential Staff Office claims that the Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) programme has significantly improved fishermen's productivity and income in its pilot location at Samber Binyeri, Biak Numfor, Papua, with annual catches doubling to 10.85 tonnes per fisherman and monthly earnings rising 75% to Rp7.73 million. Enhanced facilities such as ice factories, cold storage, and integrated docks have facilitated better fish quality and distribution, while also creating new jobs and extending economic value chains from raw sales to processing and logistics. Nationally, the programme is projected to absorb 27,000 workers, underscoring its role in advancing Indonesia's fisheries sector and community welfare under President Prabowo Subianto's administration.