Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

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Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VI: Pertamina Ships to Soon Pass Through Strait of Hormuz, Awaiting Administration

Andre Rosiade, Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VI, expressed optimism that two Pertamina tanker ships detained in the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran-Israel-US conflict will soon be allowed to pass, pending only administrative procedures. The Indonesian Foreign Ministry confirmed positive signals from Iran regarding the ships' safe passage, with Pertamina preparing necessary technical requirements including insurance and crew readiness. This development underscores Indonesia's diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe transit of its state-owned energy company's vessels amid regional tensions.

Pluit Reservoir Temporarily Turns Green as Water Hyacinth Grows Rapidly in Four Days

Water hyacinth has rapidly proliferated in Jakarta's Pluit Reservoir, covering parts of its surface within just four days, raising concerns over water body conditions and maintenance activities. Officials from the Jakarta Environmental Agency's Water Body Waste Handling Unit are intensifying removal efforts, transporting approximately 108 cubic metres of the invasive plant using 12 trucks in a single day, following its emergence after the Eid al-Fitr holiday. Control measures include barriers made from high-density polyethylene material and processing the plant into compost, highlighting ongoing challenges in managing urban water infrastructure.

Bali Provincial Government Prepares Guidelines for Civil Servants' Work-from-Home on Fridays

The Bali Provincial Government is drafting a circular to implement a work-from-home policy for civil servants every Friday, in line with national directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Head of the Bureau of Organization at the Bali Regional Secretariat, Tjok Istri Srimas Pemayun, stated that the guidelines will be finalised this week, ensuring public services remain uninterrupted. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto announced the policy aims to promote digital-based governance for civil servants in central and regional agencies.

Iran Conflict Disrupts Global Supply, Plastic Prices Rise, Government Seeks Alternative Imports

The ongoing conflict in Iran has disrupted global naphtha supplies, a key raw material for plastic production primarily imported from the Middle East, leading to rising plastic prices worldwide. Indonesia's Minister of Trade, Budi Santoso, announced that the government is actively seeking alternative sources from countries including India, Africa, and the Americas to mitigate import disruptions. This proactive approach aims to stabilise domestic production and maintain supply chains, with similar challenges affecting nations like Singapore, China, and South Korea.

BPS: March Inflation at 0.41% Driven by Food Prices Ahead of Eid

Indonesia's national inflation rate for March 2026 reached 0.41% month-on-month, primarily driven by rising prices in food, beverages, and tobacco, with a significant contribution from volatile food items such as fresh fish, chicken meat, rice, eggs, chillies, cooking oil, and beef. This figure is lower than the 1.65% recorded in the same month the previous year, with calendar-year inflation standing at 0.94%, highlighting seasonal pressures ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Core inflation and administered prices also contributed modestly, while air transport fares and gold jewellery helped mitigate the overall rise.

DPR Member Affirms Fuel Price Stability as Correct Step to Safeguard National Economy

Jamaludin Malik, a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives from the Golkar Party faction, has expressed full support for the Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia's assurance that fuel prices will remain stable from 1 April 2026, particularly for widely used fuels, to protect public purchasing power amid global oil prices exceeding USD 100 per barrel. He praised the government's adaptive energy management through subsidies and compensation, while non-subsidised fuels follow market dynamics to balance fiscal sustainability. Jamaludin urged long-term efforts to enhance domestic energy production and diversification for greater national resilience against global fluctuations.

IIPO WBSA, Logistics Sector in the Spotlight

PT BSA Logistics Indonesia Tbk (WBSA) is gearing up for its initial public offering on the Indonesia Stock Exchange, planning to offer up to 1.8 billion shares at Rp150 to Rp170 each, aiming to raise up to Rp306 billion. The company, which provides end-to-end logistics services including land transportation, freight forwarding, warehousing, and inland terminals, reported solid financials with total assets of Rp1.15 trillion and net profit of Rp24.39 billion as of September 2025. Proceeds from the IPO will fund inorganic expansion, notably the acquisition of PT Bermuda Inovasi Logistik to bolster its sea freight operations, highlighting the growing appeal of Indonesia's logistics sector to investors.

Pertamina Patra Niaga Offers Various Cashback Promotions to the Public in April 2026

Pertamina Patra Niaga is launching a range of attractive promotions throughout April 2026 via the MyPertamina app, including double MyPertamina points on weekends and cashback offers with digital payment partners like OVO, AstraPay, and GoPay. Credit card users of BNI-MyPertamina and Mandiri MyPertamina Card can benefit from additional cashback and rewards points, with bonuses extending up to December 2026. These initiatives aim to encourage digital transactions and provide more convenient options for consumers, as stated by Corporate Secretary Roberth MV Dumatubun.

Investigation Handed Over to TNI Military Police Centre: Can the Andrie Yunus Case Be Tried in a General Court?

Civil society groups are pressing for the acid attack case against KontraS activist Andrie Yunus to be handled through general courts rather than being limited to military justice, following its transfer from Metro Jaya Police to the TNI Military Police Centre due to the absence of civilian involvement. Legal expert Albert Aries from Trisakti University explains that without civilian suspects, the case falls under military jurisdiction and cannot proceed via the connexity court mechanism, which allows joint trials for mixed perpetrators. This situation highlights ongoing challenges in Indonesia's judicial system, including the need for reforms to enable general courts to prosecute military personnel for common crimes.

Two Police Officers in Rote Ndao Seriously Injured After Being Pelted by Crowd During Protest Security

Two police officers from Rote Ndao Police Resort in East Nusa Tenggara were seriously injured when protesters threw stones at them while securing a court session at the Ba'a District Court. The incident occurred during a demonstration demanding the unconditional release of environmental activist Erasmus Frans, escalating into violence that required six and seven stitches for the officers' head wounds. Authorities expressed regret over the provocation despite prior efforts to prevent clashes, highlighting tensions around the activist's case.

WIKA Beton Ready to Develop National and Southeast Asian Railway Projects

PT Wijaya Karya Beton Tbk (WIKA Beton) has affirmed its readiness to serve as a key partner in advancing railway projects across Indonesia and Southeast Asia, as highlighted during the 3rd Edition Thailand Rail 2026 conference in Bangkok. The company shared insights from strategic alliances in major initiatives like the Metro Manila Subway Project and Jakarta MRT Phase 2, emphasising the importance of cross-disciplinary expertise and sustainable partnerships over full equity investments. This presentation underscores Indonesia's growing pipeline of urban railway developments, positioning WIKA Beton and its affiliate Danantara as bridges for technical engineering and global investment opportunities in the region.

Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Recruits Thousands of Workers for Giant Shrimp Pond in Waingapu

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is preparing thousands of workers to support the development and operation of a 1,361-hectare integrated shrimp farming area in Waingapu, East Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. Director General of Aquaculture Tb. Haeru Rahayu emphasised the critical role of human resources, with workforce needs divided into five levels from management to basic technical roles, offering significant opportunities for local communities without experience requirements at the entry level. High interest is evident, with 4,414 registrations already received, highlighting strong local enthusiasm for contributing to this strategic project.

Apocalypse for Online Drivers Rages On, Now Reaching Singapore

The autonomous taxi industry is expanding globally, with WeRide partnering with Grab to launch Singapore's first public robotaxi service in the Punggol residential district, following successful trials involving over 1,000 passengers. This development, which began operations on 31 March, highlights the growing integration of self-driving technology in urban mobility and raises concerns for traditional ride-hailing drivers in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia where Grab operates. Officials from both companies emphasise the service's potential to enhance sustainable transport while upskilling drivers for new roles.

Annual Inflation Reaches 3.48 Percent in March 2026

Indonesia's annual inflation rate rose to 3.48 percent in March 2026, driven primarily by a 7.24 percent increase in the housing, water, electricity, and household fuel category, with electricity tariffs being the largest contributor. This marks a slowdown from February's 4.76 percent rate, as the low-base effect from previous electricity discounts begins to wane, while monthly inflation stood at a moderate 0.41 percent. The data, released by Statistics Indonesia (BPS), highlights ongoing pressures from food prices, underscoring the need for vigilant monetary policy amid global uncertainties.

Asian Stock Markets Strengthen After Trump Signals Withdrawal from Iran

Asian stock markets surged on Wednesday morning following US President Donald Trump's announcement that the US would withdraw from Iran within two to three weeks, regardless of any agreement with Tehran. This development comes amid ongoing Middle East conflicts, including Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Beirut, and has led to heightened oil prices, with Brent crude rising 1.2% to $105.36 per barrel after a record 64% increase in March due to threats against the Strait of Hormuz. The volatility underscores the vulnerability of energy-dependent Asian economies like Japan and South Korea to regional instability, potentially exacerbating global energy cost concerns.

14 Middle East Updates: Trump Wants to End the War, Netanyahu-Iran Response

In a series of escalating incidents amid the ongoing Iran-US-Israel conflict, Israel intercepted Iranian missiles and Houthi attacks, explosions rocked Tehran, and strikes hit Kuwait's airport, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and a tanker off Qatar, while Israeli attacks in Lebanon killed seven. US President Trump announced the war could end in two to three weeks, plans to address the nation, and takes responsibility off the US for securing the Strait of Hormuz, boosting Asian stock markets. The Pope urged Trump to seek peace, as the conflict disrupts global shipping and economies, with potential for negotiation amid shifting US stances.

Rice Production Potentially Down 380,000 Tonnes, BPS Provides This Explanation

Indonesia's Central Statistics Agency (BPS) forecasts a decline in national rice production for January to May 2026, reaching 16.57 million tonnes, a 2.22% drop or 380,000 tonnes less than the same period in 2025, primarily due to reduced harvested area and paddy production influenced by planting conditions and potential weather risks. Despite a temporary increase in February, projections for March to May indicate further weakening, with key production areas concentrated in Java and Sumatra. Concurrently, rice prices have risen across the supply chain, while the Farmers' Exchange Rate (NTP) saw a slight decline, highlighting challenges in farmer welfare amid fluctuating agricultural outputs.

Prabowo Subianto Urges Japanese Company Leaders to Strengthen Downstream Investment

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met with executives from 13 major Japanese corporations in Tokyo to bolster economic partnerships, focusing on industrial downstreaming to enhance Indonesia's position in global supply chains and create high-value jobs. The discussions emphasised expanding investments in sectors like automotive, energy, and pharmaceuticals, building on prior commitments exceeding Rp 380 trillion, while addressing the acceleration of battery electric vehicle adoption using domestic resources. Prabowo highlighted the need for Japan to shift more aggressively towards electric vehicles, with Toyota affirming its commitment to multi-pathway technologies aligned with Indonesian policies.

DKI Population Agency Records 1,000 New Arrivals by End of March

The DKI Jakarta Population and Civil Registration Agency (Dukcapil) has recorded 1,000 new arrivals in the city between 25 and 30 March 2026, following the Lebaran holidays. Officials predict a continued decline in migration to Jakarta for the third consecutive year, attributed to more even economic growth across regions, shifting perceptions of the city as a global capital requiring higher skills, and uncertainties regarding housing availability. To monitor trends, Dukcapil plans intensified outreach services in local communities through April 2026 in collaboration with district and village governments.

Police Dismantle Baby Trafficking Syndicate in North Sumatra, Six People Arrested

Police in North Sumatra have dismantled a baby trafficking syndicate operating in Deliserdang Regency, arresting six individuals involved in the illegal sale of infants. The operation, triggered by public tips, uncovered a network where a mother sold her newborn for economic reasons at Rp12 million, which was then resold for Rp25 million, with the practice having occurred multiple times previously. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat child trafficking in Indonesia, with authorities investigating potential wider networks and urging public vigilance.

Carta Opens Hong Kong Office, Establishes Dual-Hub Asia Network to Modernise the City’s $240B Private Markets Ecosystem

Carta, a leading provider of ERP solutions for private capital, has launched a new office in Hong Kong to establish a dual-hub network with Singapore, enhancing infrastructure for general partners and limited partners operating in the Greater Bay Area and across Asia. This expansion responds to Hong Kong's resurgence as a major capital hub managing $240 billion in private market assets, driven by its return to the top spot for IPO activity and increasing liquidity demands. The Hong Kong team will deliver localised, end-to-end investment lifecycle services in multiple languages, solidifying Carta's role as a key player in modernising Asia's private capital ecosystem.

Impact of Iran War: US Fuel Prices Surge, Cost of Living Soars

The ongoing war between the United States, Israel, and Iran has triggered a sharp rise in US petrol prices, reaching up to 35% increases and surpassing $4 per gallon in some areas, exacerbating the cost-of-living crisis for ordinary Americans amid persistent high inflation. Personal stories from affected residents highlight the strain on budgets, with retirees and workers alike cutting back on driving and dipping into savings due to the global energy crisis. While the conflict's economic ripple effects extend to Asia and Europe, prompting measures like work-from-home policies, it underscores the profound domestic repercussions of international military engagements on everyday life.

PDIP Notes on Friday WFH Policy, Warning of Long Weekend Effects

PDIP politician Deddy Sitorus has expressed confusion over the government's decision to implement work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants every Friday, arguing that it may prove ineffective in curbing fuel consumption due to the potential for extended weekends. He calls for a thorough evaluation based on measurable data such as fuel usage graphs and mobility patterns, especially amid prolonged Middle East conflicts. Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto defends the policy, citing post-COVID experiences where some ministries adopted four-day workweeks, while ensuring public services remain uninterrupted.

Ombudsman Issues Ultimatum to Ministry of Manpower on Companies Failing to Pay Workers' Holiday Allowance, Latest by Tomorrow

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia (ORI) has issued an ultimatum to the Ministry of Manpower and local governments to ensure workers' Holiday Allowance (THR) is paid in full and on time, highlighting ongoing issues ahead of the 2026 deadline. Monitoring in 11 provinces revealed regulatory weaknesses, limited enforcement powers, and malaadministration practices, including delayed or partial payments, persisting since 2023 with 652 complaints. The ultimatum aligns with the Manpower Minister's deadline for companies to settle outstanding THR by Thursday, emphasising the need for stronger regulations and standardised procedures to protect workers' rights.

East Java Provincial Government Begins Implementing WFH for Civil Servants to Save Energy

The East Java Provincial Government has introduced a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) starting on Wednesdays to enhance energy efficiency and reduce fuel oil (BBM) consumption amid global conflicts affecting energy supplies. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa emphasised strict monitoring through digital attendance, inspections, and communication protocols to ensure productivity remains unaffected, targeting savings of up to 108,000 litres of BBM per month outside the education sector. The policy, evaluated until June 2026, aligns with national directives and aims to curb private vehicle use without turning WFH into a de facto holiday.

Ministry of Population and Family Development Supports Work from Home Policy

The Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga) has endorsed the government's work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Friday, starting from 1 April 2026, as part of broader efficiency measures. Secretary Budi Setiyono encouraged employees to avoid using private vehicles for at least two months and to opt for public transport, while reallocating budgets from in-person meetings to direct public benefit programmes. This initiative, coordinated by Minister Airlangga Hartarto, aims to reduce energy consumption and maintain public service standards without disruption.

Children Banned from Social Media, Kak Seto: Direct Them to Traditional Games

The Indonesian government has implemented Government Regulation Number 17 of 2025, known as PP Tunas, which prohibits children under 16 from having social media accounts to enhance child protection in the digital realm. Seto Mulyadi, Chairman of the Indonesian Child Protection Institute (LPAI), advocates for traditional games, storytelling, and drawing as engaging alternatives to gadgets, noting that such activities can involve parents and have been adopted by regional leaders in areas like West Java and West Nusa Tenggara. This regulation mandates strict compliance from digital platforms, with no compromises allowed, underscoring Indonesia's commitment to safeguarding young users online.

Back to Campus, Back to Learning

As students return to university campuses following the Eid al-Fitr holiday, the article highlights the rapid advancements in AI, particularly 'vibe coding,' which allows developers to describe software needs in everyday language for AI to implement, shifting the role of engineers from coders to orchestrators. This transformation extends across professions like content creation, data analysis, and design, emphasising the need for critical oversight to mitigate risks such as security vulnerabilities. Universities, exemplified by Universitas Amikom Yogyakarta, play a crucial role in preparing students through structured curricula to become proficient AI collaborators, fostering continuous learning in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

Prabowo Calls Himself a Micromanager at Tokyo Business Forum

At the Japan-Indonesia Business Forum in Tokyo, President Prabowo Subianto admitted to being a micromanager, expressing guilt over his hands-on leadership style that has led to exhaustion and health issues among his ministers and senior officials. He emphasised Indonesia's impeccable reputation for never defaulting on debt as a key asset for attracting foreign investment amid global uncertainties. Prabowo urged Japanese entrepreneurs to report business obstacles directly to him and highlighted the government's de-bottlenecking task force aimed at removing administrative barriers for investors, both foreign and domestic.

List of Fuel Prices in the ASEAN Region: Who Has the Cheapest?

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has confirmed that prices for subsidised fuel products will remain unchanged amid global geopolitical tensions. Discussions are ongoing regarding non-subsidised fuel prices, which are currently being held steady pending further decisions. Meanwhile, several ASEAN countries have seen significant increases in fuel prices, with the article listing current rates to compare affordability across the region.

Indonesian Nickel and CPO Sell Well Abroad, February Exports Reach US$22.17 Billion

Indonesia's exports in February 2026 reached US$22.17 billion, marking a 1.01% increase from the previous year, driven primarily by the processing industry which contributed US$18.55 billion, up 5.24%. Key commodities boosting these figures include nickel, crude palm oil (CPO), and motor vehicles, while mining and agricultural exports saw declines of 18.16% and 31.45% respectively. This performance underscores the strengthening role of processed goods in Indonesia's trade balance amid global demand.

BNN deploys 1,818 facilitators to strengthen drug prevention efforts

Indonesia's National Narcotics Agency (BNN) is deploying 1,818 facilitators across the country to enhance drug prevention initiatives at the village and sub-district levels, addressing the rising prevalence of drug abuse, which now affects 2.11% of the population or approximately 4.15 million people according to the 2025 national survey. Despite budget constraints, BNN is training these facilitators—drawn from its central, provincial, and district staff—in comprehensive areas including prevention, community empowerment, rehabilitation, legal aspects, and public services to improve programme effectiveness and public awareness. This initiative aims to accelerate the implementation of the "Shining Village/Sub-district" programme, underscoring the agency's commitment to combating the multidimensional threats posed by narcotics.

5 Causes of Rupiah Breaking Through Rp 17,000/US$, Including Donald Trump's Actions

The Indonesian rupiah has depreciated sharply against the US dollar, surpassing Rp 17,000 per dollar amid global uncertainties. Economist Myrdal Gunarto from Maybank Indonesia identifies five key factors: global investors' risk aversion due to Middle East tensions following US President Donald Trump's strikes on Iran, increased domestic foreign exchange demand for imports amid high oil prices, end-of-month routine spending on imported goods, seasonal dividend payouts boosting dollar demand, and shifted foreign debt payments due to the Eid al-Fitr holiday. This weakening highlights vulnerabilities in emerging markets like Indonesia to geopolitical events and domestic economic pressures.

High Maternal Mortality in Jember, 10 Deaths in Early 2026

In the first three months of 2026, Jember Regency in East Java recorded 10 maternal deaths during childbirth, a concerning rise compared to the previous year, highlighting significant issues in maternal healthcare access and quality. Factors such as non-obstetric comorbidities like heart disease and tuberculosis, alongside obstetric complications including pre-eclampsia, are primary causes, exacerbated by dietary and lifestyle habits. Local health authorities are intensifying interventions through community health centres and a dedicated cadre of 1,200 health workers to identify high-risk pregnancies and support SDG 3 goals for improved health and well-being.

At Muhammadiyah Halalbihalal, Deputy Minister Fajar: Public Trust Rising, Do Not Stop Improving Quality

Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Fajar Riza Ul Haq, urged Muhammadiyah to enhance the quality of its educational institutions in response to growing public trust, highlighting the organisation's network of over 5,346 schools serving more than one million students. Speaking at a Halalbihalal event, he emphasised President Prabowo Subianto's vision for equitable education policies that eliminate disparities between public and private schools. Key initiatives under Minister Abdul Mu’ti include the 2025 regulation on redistributing civil servant and PPPK teachers back to private schools to strengthen their human resources.

Pegadaian Gold Prices Today (1/4) Rise Again, UBS-Galeri 24 Strengthen by Rp 54,000

Gold prices at Pegadaian rose on Wednesday afternoon, 1 April 2026, with both UBS and Galeri 24 variants increasing by Rp 54,000 per gram to reach Rp 2,911,000. This uptick from the previous day's Rp 2,857,000 reflects ongoing volatility in the precious metals market, offering accessible investment options in sizes starting from 0.5 grams. Investors may view this as a signal of strengthening demand amid economic uncertainties.

IHSG Surges at the Start of April, US-Iran Peace Signals Energise the Market!

The Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) surged 1.45% or 102.46 points to 7,150.69 in the first trading session on Thursday, 1 April 2026, driven by positive global sentiment from de-escalation signals between the US and Iran. All sectors advanced, led by cyclicals at 3.72%, with trading value reaching Rp8.65 trillion and notable gains in stocks like NCKL (7.83%), INCO (7.01%), and UNVR (6.32%). Analysts from Phintraco Sekuritas predict continued positive momentum in the 7,100–7,200 range, supported by technical indicators.

Residents' Houses on TPU Kamal Kalideres Land to Be Completely Demolished Next Monday

The West Jakarta City Government is set to execute the demolition of remaining residents' buildings on public cemetery land in Kamal and Pegadungan, Kalideres, starting Monday, 6 April 2026, following prior notices and instructions from the city authorities. Efforts are underway to facilitate a humane process, with opportunities for self-relocation to flats and assistance from local officials, while some residents have already begun dismantling their structures voluntarily. This action aims to reclaim the land as an asset of the DKI Jakarta Parks and City Forest Service, with 45 buildings targeted for removal across affected neighbourhoods.

Wall at Kramat Jati Main Market TPS Collapses Due to Pile of Rubbish

A retaining wall at the temporary rubbish storage site (TPS) of Kramat Jati Main Market in East Jakarta has collapsed, likely due to the pressure from towering piles of waste reaching up to six metres high, posing health risks and safety concerns for local residents. Residents have reported the issue since January 2026, highlighting ongoing problems with foul odours, swarms of flies, and the area's use as a play space for children and a shortcut for the community, yet no repairs have been made. Although the East Jakarta Environmental Service has deployed 13 trucks for rubbish removal since late March, the efforts have not yielded significant results, prompting calls for urgent action from provincial and city authorities to address both waste management and infrastructure repairs.

PKS's Mardani: WFH Every Friday Could Save 32% of Office Operational Budget

Mardani Ali Sera, a member of Commission II and the head of PKS's election body, has expressed support for the government's new work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Friday, estimating it could achieve up to 32% efficiency in office operational costs, including electricity, water, and official vehicles. He emphasised the need for strict supervision, thorough socialisation, careful evaluation, and increased productivity, while advocating for enhanced public transportation to further reduce fuel consumption. The policy, announced by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto, responds to the impacts of the Middle East conflict.

Novel Baswedan and Haris Azhar Attend Inauguration of Immigration Directorate General Hendarsam Marantoko

Former KPK investigator Novel Baswedan and Lokataru Foundation founder Haris Azhar attended the inauguration ceremony of Hendarsam Marantoko as Director General of Immigration at the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections in Jakarta. The event, presided over by Minister Agus Andrianto, followed two presidential decrees and included prominent figures from parliament and law enforcement. This appointment underscores key governmental transitions in Indonesia's immigration sector, with notable civil society participation highlighting public interest.

Provincial Government Predicts Decline in New Arrivals to Jakarta After Eid 2026

The Jakarta Provincial Government's Population and Civil Registration Office (Dukcapil) anticipates a continued decline in new migrant registrations following Eid al-Fitr in 2026, mirroring trends from the past three years, with fewer than 1,000 new arrivals recorded between 25 and 30 March. Officials are monitoring developments through the end of April, a typical period for population influx from outside the capital. To facilitate administrative processes, the government is launching outreach services from 1 to 29 April to ensure all newcomers are properly registered and services are brought closer to the community.

Manulife Asset Management Officially Acquires Schroders Indonesia

Manulife Wealth & Asset Management has completed the acquisition of PT Schroder Investment Management Indonesia through its local subsidiary, PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia, following approval from the Financial Services Authority (OJK). This merger integrates Schroders Indonesia's local investment expertise and long-term relationships with institutional clients into Manulife's platform, aiming to enhance scale, innovation, and global insights for broader investment solutions. The move strengthens Manulife's growth foundation in Indonesia, positioning it to navigate market dynamics while delivering long-term value, with a structured integration process underway to ensure continuity for clients, partners, and employees.

Trade Minister Ensures Search for Alternative Sources of Plastic Production Raw Materials

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has confirmed that the government is actively seeking alternative sources for naphtha, a key raw material for plastic production, to mitigate disruptions in imports from the Middle East. This initiative involves negotiations with countries in India, Africa, and the Americas, alongside discussions with industry associations and Indonesian representatives abroad to secure new suppliers and stabilise domestic production. The move addresses global supply chain vulnerabilities affecting multiple nations, including Singapore, China, and South Korea, which have also implemented export restrictions on naphtha.

South Korean President Offers Condolences to Prabowo over Fallen TNI Soldiers

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung expressed deep condolences to Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for the deaths of three TNI peacekeepers in Lebanon during a bilateral meeting in Seoul. The incident, involving an indirect artillery attack amid escalating Israel-Lebanon tensions, prompted strong condemnation from Indonesia at the UN Security Council, demanding accountability and protection for UNIFIL personnel. Indonesia highlighted the attacks as deliberate violations of international law, urging immediate investigations and cessation of hostilities to safeguard peacekeeping efforts.

Chair of DPR Commission XII Appreciates Government's Decision Not to Raise Fuel Prices: Remains Committed to the People

The Chair of DPR Commission XII, Bambang Patijaya, has praised the government's firm commitment to maintaining stable prices for both subsidised and non-subsidised fuel amid escalating global geopolitical tensions and rising crude oil prices. This decision is seen as a tangible effort to protect the purchasing power of ordinary citizens, including small traders, fishermen, farmers, and public transport operators, while keeping domestic inflation in check. The commission vows to oversee the policy to ensure subsidies are targeted, transparent, and not misused, underscoring Indonesia's prioritisation of energy sovereignty and public welfare.

UN rejects death penalty, urges Israel to repeal new law

The United Nations has firmly opposed the death penalty in all forms and called on Israel to repeal and not implement a newly passed law imposing capital punishment on terrorists. The legislation, approved by Israel's parliament, targets those convicted of nationalist or racist-motivated murders and has drawn criticism for its potential discriminatory application, primarily affecting Palestinians. This stance underscores the UN's ongoing concerns over human rights and equitable justice in the region.

BRI Services in Kupang Temporarily Down, BRImo and ATMs Now Normal

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) customers in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, experienced widespread disruptions to banking services on Wednesday, including the BRImo app, ATMs, and branch operations, leading to blocked cards after multiple failed attempts and additional fees for PIN changes. The outage, suspected to be a national issue stemming from central system problems, caused significant inconvenience for urgent transactions, such as one customer's inability to pay for printed materials. BRI attributed the disruption to scheduled system maintenance and confirmed services were restored by 12:00 WIB, apologising for the inconvenience.

BRI Services Down in Kupang, Unable to Access BRImo and ATMs

Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) customers in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, are facing widespread disruptions to banking services, including the BRImo app, ATMs, and branch transactions, since Wednesday morning. Attempts to withdraw cash or conduct transactions have led to automatic card blocking after three failed tries, requiring a Rp5,000 fee to reset the PIN, exacerbating frustrations amid urgent financial needs. Bank staff suspect the issue stems from a central system failure affecting operations nationwide, with no official confirmation yet from BRI.

Circular on Friday WFH for Local Government Civil Servants: Content and Attachments

The Indonesian government has mandated a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) in local governments, allowing one day per week on Fridays starting from 1 April 2026, as outlined in a circular issued by Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian. This policy combines office-based work with remote options but exempts key leadership roles and essential public service units such as emergency response, health, education, and licensing services to ensure uninterrupted service delivery. The measure aims to transform civil service work culture and will be evaluated every two months to assess its effectiveness.