Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

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Indonesian Forestry Minister and South Korean Forestry Minister Strengthen Forest Fire Management Cooperation

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry has signed two strategic cooperation agreements with South Korea's Korea Forest Service to enhance bilateral collaboration in sustainable forest management and forest fire handling. The agreements, signed in Seoul by Ministers Raja Juli Antoni and Park Eunsik, include a framework for priority forestry programmes addressing climate change and a memorandum on fire prevention, response, and restoration using advanced technologies like satellite monitoring. This partnership, part of President Prabowo Subianto's state visit, builds on decades of ties and aims to bolster Indonesia's preparedness against events like the projected El Niño in 2026, fostering knowledge exchange and joint projects.

Zuckerberg Prepares AI to Manage Thousands of Meta Employees

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is developing a personal AI agent to function as a chief of staff, assisting with information retrieval, data processing, and decision-making to streamline operations in the company's vast organisation of nearly 79,000 employees. This initiative aims to reduce bureaucratic layers and enhance efficiency, with internal tools like MyClaw and Second Brain already in use by staff for daily tasks. While the AI is positioned as a supportive tool rather than a full replacement, it raises concerns about the future of managerial and executive roles amid broader organisational restructuring.

Cancer to Obesity Driving Surge in Health Claims in Asia

Employee health claims in Asia are projected to rise sharply in the coming years, primarily driven by chronic conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, diabetes, metabolic illnesses, and obesity-related issues, which demand costly long-term treatments and advanced medical technologies. Mental health concerns are emerging as a major risk for companies by 2026, with 38% of employees seeking therapy or medication, though stigma persists; companies are responding with cost-sharing schemes, preventive programmes, and technology integration like AI to manage escalating medical costs that have increased by 11.4% post-inflation in the region. This trend underscores the need for flexible benefits strategies to balance cost control with quality healthcare access amid post-pandemic utilisation surges and service gaps between public and private sectors.

Professors Urge Case of Andrie Yunus to Be Brought to General Court

A coalition of professors, academics, and civil society organisations has petitioned for the acid attack case against human rights activist Andrie Yunus to be handled through the general court rather than the military one, citing concerns over systemic attacks on democracy and the rule of law. They argue that involving TNI intelligence personnel implies a chain of command that must be investigated beyond field perpetrators, warning that military trials perpetuate impunity and undermine civilian freedoms. The police's transfer of the case to the TNI Military Police has been criticised as legally flawed, with Andrie continuing to receive medical treatment for severe injuries.

Donald Trump Announces US Troops Withdrawal from Iran within Three Weeks

US President Donald Trump has announced the withdrawal of American military forces from Iran within two to three weeks, marking the end of a major operation that began in late February 2026 aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Trump claimed the intervention successfully weakened Iran's military capabilities and led to a regime change following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, paving the way for a more moderate government. The conflict resulted in over 1,340 Iranian deaths and 13 US casualties, with significant global economic repercussions including energy price volatility affecting currencies like the Indonesian rupiah, while the US will no longer secure the Strait of Hormuz, leaving that responsibility to other nations.

Koster Claims Increase in Bali Visits, Denies Rumours of the Island of the Gods Being Empty

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has claimed a 36% rise in domestic tourist arrivals during the 2026 Eid al-Fitr long holiday compared to the previous year, based on data from I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, with international visitors also seeing a slight uptick. He dismissed social media rumours portraying Bali as deserted, emphasising that the figures do not yet include land and sea entries, which he believes will show even greater growth. This rebuttal underscores Bali's continued appeal as a key economic driver for Indonesia's tourism sector amid ongoing recovery efforts.

Indonesia and Japan Expand Park Cooperation and Carbon Investment

Indonesia and Japan have strengthened their forestry and environmental cooperation through a bilateral meeting in Tokyo on 31 March 2026, where Indonesia's Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni and Japan's Minister of the Environment Ishihara Hirotaka discussed conservation, climate change, and park management. Key agreements include an MoU with Shizuoka Prefecture for a Komodo breeding loan programme and an invitation for Indonesia to join the Asia Protected Areas Partnership, alongside proposals for a Sister Park initiative linking Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park with Indonesian parks. The discussions also encouraged Japanese investment in Indonesia's carbon projects under Presidential Regulation Number 110 of 2025, underscoring both nations' commitment to nature-based solutions for climate challenges as part of President Prabowo Subianto's state visit agenda.

Indodax Educates Public on Crypto Assets as Digital Investment

Indodax, Indonesia's leading cryptocurrency platform, has reaffirmed its commitment to educating the public on crypto assets as a digital investment instrument amid rising trust in financial institutions. Through its Indodax Academy, the company promotes better risk management and informed investment decisions, while enhancing security features and partnerships to ensure reliable services. The platform recently won two awards in the Most Trusted Financial Brand Awards 2026 for Crypto Trading Platform and Digital Asset Custodians, reflecting its strong position with over 9.8 million users since 2014.

Home Ministry Instructs Regional Governments to Follow Central Government in Implementing WFH for Civil Servants on Fridays

The Ministry of Home Affairs has directed all regional governments to align their work-from-home (WFH) policies for civil servants (ASN) with the central government's scheme, implementing it every Friday to promote energy efficiency amid global conflicts. This instruction overrides prior local initiatives, such as East Java Province's Wednesday WFH, which was chosen to avoid extending weekends and increasing fuel consumption from travel. Certain high-level ASN positions at provincial and district levels are exempt from the policy to ensure continuity of essential services.

Iran's Peace Signals Pressure Global Oil Prices

Global oil prices weakened on Tuesday as reports emerged that Iran is open to ending its conflict under certain guarantees, easing some of the risk premium built into recent sharp surges. Brent crude fell to $103.97 per barrel, while WTI dropped to $101.38, following a tumultuous March where prices skyrocketed due to escalations disrupting Middle East energy infrastructure and slashing OPEC production to pandemic lows. Despite diplomatic signals, US warnings of intensified conflict and ongoing supply vulnerabilities suggest market uncertainty and potential for renewed price volatility persist.

House Commission VI: Fuel Stock Secure Due to Indonesia's New Oil Sources

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VI Deputy Chairman Andre Rosiade has reassured the public that fuel oil (BBM) stocks remain secure, thanks to new oil sources and government strategies, amid ongoing tanker transit through the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasised coordination with Pertamina to ensure distribution and availability, while praising President Prabowo's decision to maintain current prices for both subsidised and non-subsidised fuels. This move prioritises public welfare and avoids price hikes despite international challenges.

Trump: US to Withdraw Troops from Iran in 2-3 Weeks

US President Donald Trump has announced that American troops will withdraw from Iran within the next two to three weeks, effectively ending the US-led attacks on the country. This decision comes amid an ongoing conflict that began on 28 February, resulting in over 1,340 deaths according to Iranian reports and 13 US military fatalities. The war has driven up energy prices and disrupted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route, highlighting the broader geopolitical and economic implications of the escalation.

KPK Summons Company Director in Depok District Court Judge Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Yuli Priyanto, Director of PT Karabha Digdaya, along with other executives from related companies, as witnesses in an ongoing bribery case involving judges at the Depok District Court. The case originated from a KPK sting operation that led to the arrest of Chief Judge I Wayan Eka Mariarta, Deputy Chief Judge Bambang Setyawan, and bailiff Yohansyah, who are accused of accepting a Rp 1 billion bribe to influence a land dispute execution. Additionally, Bambang Setyawan faces charges of receiving Rp 2.5 billion in gratuities from currency exchange transactions by PT DMV between 2025 and 2026, highlighting persistent corruption risks within the judiciary.

Rat in MBG Box Causes Uproar at SMKN 8 Semarang, Some Food Contaminated

A rat emerging from a box of free nutritious meals (MBG) at SMKN 8 Semarang has gone viral on social media, sparking concern after it was found to have eaten some of the food, with a portion already consumed by students. School staff confirmed the incident and returned the affected box to the nutrition fulfilment service unit (SPPG), which promptly replaced it with a new one. This event highlights potential hygiene challenges in the implementation of Indonesia's free school meal programme, aimed at improving child nutrition and education access.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Says WFH Policy for Civil Servants and Fuel Savings Measures Are Dynamic

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has described the government's work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants and fuel efficiency measures as dynamic, promising swift updates in case of changes amid the global crisis. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto outlined that ASN will implement WFH one day a week, every Friday, while ensuring public services remain uninterrupted, drawing from past pandemic practices. Exceptions apply to essential sectors like health, education, and waste management, as explained by Interior Minister Tito Karnavian, with calls for public and business participation in fostering a savings culture.

Exports Reach US$22.1 Billion: These Are the Indonesian Goods Sought After by Other Countries!

Indonesia's exports grew by 1.01% in February 2026 compared to the previous year, reaching US$22.17 billion, driven primarily by the processing industry which contributed US$18.55 billion. Key commodities boosting this growth include nickel, crude palm oil (CPO), four-wheeled motor vehicles, organic basic chemicals from agricultural products, and semiconductors along with other electronic components. While mining and agriculture sectors saw significant declines, the resilience of processed goods underscores Indonesia's strengthening position in global trade markets.

Indonesian Company Showcases Innovations at Eisenwarenmesse Cologne 2026

Indonesian company Megajaya, the official partner of TOYO-INTL in Indonesia since 2012, is participating in the Eisenwarenmesse Cologne 2026 exhibition in Germany from 3-6 March to introduce its latest lifting equipment solutions to global industry players. The event will feature product demonstrations, interactive discussions, and networking opportunities led by Chairman Junaidy Halim and CEO Djohan Halim, aiming to expand international markets and build long-term collaborations. This strategic move underscores Megajaya's commitment to innovation, safety standards, and supporting modern industrial needs both domestically and abroad.

Mid-level and Entry-level Officials in DKI Transportation and Fire Departments Prohibited from Working from Home on Fridays

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has clarified that not all civil servants (ASN) in the capital can work from home every Friday, with exemptions for mid-level and entry-level officials in public service departments such as transportation, health, civil service police, and fire and rescue services, who must continue regular on-site duties. The provincial government will implement a work-from-home ratio of 25 to 50 per cent for eligible staff, regulated by a governor's decree, while ensuring attendance via mobile systems and imposing strict sanctions for violations. This policy aligns with national guidelines from the Home Affairs and relevant ministries, emphasising uninterrupted public services amid flexible working arrangements.

Freelander revives, now as Chery-JLR's NEV brand

Chery and Jaguar Land Rover have officially relaunched Freelander as a global new energy vehicle (NEV) brand, introducing its first concept model in a collaboration that blends luxury automotive heritage with cutting-edge EV technology. The brand, headquartered in Shanghai, will debut its initial model in the second half of this year, with production starting in late 2026 at a smart manufacturing base in Changshu, supported by global design centres in the UK and China. This revival positions Freelander to compete in the booming NEV market with advanced features like Huawei's intelligent driving system, high-voltage platforms, and extended-range hybrid batteries, marking a strategic push into sustainable mobility.

Deceiving Iran, Extorting the Arabs, and Shocks in the US and Israel

The ceasefire process pushed by US President Donald Trump has reached a deadlock, with the US imposing 15 demands on Iran via Pakistan as mediator, which Iran counters with five conditions tantamount to US capitulation, leaving no room for diplomacy. Iran's successful asymmetric warfare has targeted US military bases in GCC countries and Jordan, devastated Israeli infrastructure, and closed the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a global energy crisis and economic losses of $194 billion in the region, pushing four million Arabs into poverty. Despite initial diplomatic progress, Trump and Netanyahu disrupted talks to pursue regime change in Iran, exploiting domestic unrest, but this has only strengthened the Iranian regime.

How to Register for KIP Kuliah 2026: Complete Requirements, Funding Assistance, Link and Disbursement Schedule

The Indonesian government is advancing its commitment to human resource development through the KIP Kuliah programme, which provides financial aid for higher education to academically promising students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Eligible applicants, including 2026 graduates and recent leavers, must meet specific economic criteria and pass university entrance selections to receive tuition waivers and monthly living allowances ranging from Rp800,000 to Rp1,400,000, disbursed biannually. Registration involves online submission of personal and family documents via the official Kemdiktisaintek portal, with validation against national databases ensuring transparency and accessibility.

Origins of Bareskrim's Uncovering of Rp 25 Trillion Illegal Gold Case Based on PPATK Report

Indonesian police's Directorate of Special Economic Crimes has dismantled an illegal gold processing operation and suspected money laundering scheme involving transactions worth Rp 25.9 trillion, triggered by a suspicious activity report from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK). The illegal mining activities spanned from West Kalimantan to West Papua between 2019 and 2025, leading to raids in East Java where authorities seized over 65 kg of gold valued at around Rp 150 billion and Rp 8.55 billion in cash, while naming three suspects. This case underscores Indonesia's firm stance against illegal mining, which harms the environment and national wealth, with ongoing investigations in collaboration with PPATK to trace financial trails.

DPRD Chairman states that Praka Farizal fell in a world peace mission

The Chairman of the Kulon Progo Regency DPRD, Aris Syarifuddin, paid condolences to the family of the late Praka Farizal Rhomadhon, describing him as one of the nation's finest sons who perished during a UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. Farizal was killed by artillery fire in southern Lebanon on 29 March while serving with the UNIFIL contingent. Aris expressed hopes for the swift return of Farizal's body to Indonesia as a mark of national respect and urged the government to facilitate this process.

Viral Video of Driver Caught Dumping Rubbish Indiscriminately in Ciputat, Ordered to Pick It Up Again

A viral video captured a driver in Ciputat, South Tangerang, being confronted by residents for illegally dumping rubbish from Pasar Cimanggis along Jalan Ki Hajar Dewantara in the early hours of 1 April 2026, prompting him to retrieve the waste and return it to his vehicle. Local ward head Iwan Pristiasya highlighted that such incidents are frequent, often perpetrated by individuals from outside the area, despite existing prohibitions and repeated occurrences. Under South Tangerang's Regional Regulation No. 13 of 2019, offenders face up to three months' imprisonment or a fine of Rp50 million, with calls for stricter enforcement to deter violations and improved community surveillance.

Business Transformation Boosts Jamkrindo Syariah's 2025 Profits

PT Penjaminan Jamkrindo Syariah reported a significant surge in net profit to Rp141.03 billion in 2025, up from Rp54.11 billion the previous year, driven by improved business fundamentals, selective guarantee portfolios, and enhanced risk management amid industry pressures. Total assets rose slightly to Rp2.46 trillion, with equity strengthening to Rp1.41 trillion, while operational performance was bolstered by a pre-zakat and tax profit of Rp168.37 billion. The company aims to further support productive sectors, particularly SMEs, and expand its role in Indonesia's sharia financial ecosystem, underscored by a clean audit opinion and compliance with regulatory ratios.

Appointed This Morning, Hendarsam Marantoko Officially Takes Office as Director General of Immigration at Kemenimipas

Advocate Hendarsam Marantoko was officially sworn in as Director General of Immigration at the Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Kemenimipas) this morning in a ceremony held at the ministry's office in South Jakarta. The appointment, based on Presidential Decrees 187/TPA and 188/TPA of 2025, was led by Minister Agus Andrianto and attended by senior ministry officials. This move marks a significant transition in leadership for Indonesia's immigration affairs, potentially influencing policy on border control and migrant integration.

Pertamina Hulu Mahakam Increases Gas Production by 20 MMSCFD

PT Pertamina Hulu Mahakam (PHM) has successfully brought the WPN-7 platform online at the offshore Sisi Nubi field in East Kalimantan's Mahakam Working Area, achieving an initial gas production of 20 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCFD) from wells NB-701 and NB-702. This milestone underscores PHM's commitment to safe and reliable upstream oil and gas operations, contributing to national gas supply stability and supporting government efforts to enhance energy resilience. The platform's activation follows comprehensive technical preparations and joins two earlier platforms in the project, with ongoing monitoring to optimise output.

Malaysian PM: This is not the time to play politics amid the threat of crisis

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged all parties to set aside political differences and focus on addressing the current economic pressures facing the nation. Speaking at a forum in Kuala Lumpur, he emphasised that the ongoing crisis demands unity to ensure government policies are understood and supported by the public, rather than engaging in divisive political debates. Anwar highlighted the risks to national security and economic stability if attention remains on partisan issues like electoral seats instead of collective economic strategies.

Indonesia Still Profiting! Trade Balance Surpluses US$1.28 Billion in February 2026

Indonesia's trade balance recorded a surplus of US$1.28 billion in February 2026, driven by exports of US$22.17 billion, which rose 1.01% year-on-year, outpacing imports of US$20.89 billion that grew by 10.58%. Key factors included annual increases in metals and minerals exports due to rising gold prices, contrasted by a decline in energy exports. Cumulative imports reached US$42.09 billion, up 14.44%, with non-oil and gas imports comprising the largest share at US$36.93 billion, growing 17.4%.

President Prabowo warmly welcomed by Indonesian children in Seoul

President Prabowo Subianto was warmly received by Indonesian diaspora children in traditional attire upon arriving at his hotel in Seoul during his state visit on Tuesday evening. The children, Kaindra and Luthfi, expressed delight and nervousness while presenting a bouquet of flowers, highlighting their pride in meeting the President and representing Indonesian culture. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and expand strategic partnerships between Indonesia and South Korea across various sectors.

Karawang Implements WFH for Civil Servants with Strict Supervision and Periodic Attendance

The Karawang Regency Government in West Java is enforcing a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) with rigorous oversight, including periodic attendance checks and real-time performance reporting via digital systems, in line with the central government's plan starting April 2026. This initiative aims to support national energy efficiency by reducing fuel consumption, projecting savings of up to 20% and approximately Rp1 billion in budget for the month, while encouraging eco-friendly mobility like cycling for nearby employees and centralising official vehicles. Public services in critical sectors such as health and security will remain uninterrupted, ensuring no disruption to essential operations.

Home Affairs Minister issues circular regulating WFH arrangements for regional government civil servants

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, has issued a circular mandating that regional government civil servants (ASN) implement a hybrid work model, working from home (WFH) one day per week on Fridays starting from 1 April 2026, to promote efficient work culture and accelerate digital government services. The policy excludes essential public services such as disaster management, public order, health, education, and civil registration from WFH, requiring them to maintain full office attendance, while encouraging budget savings to fund priority regional programmes. Implementation will be monitored through regular reporting from regents/mayors to governors and governors to the minister, with evaluations every two months to ensure performance and digital adoption.

Restrictions on Subsidised Fuel to Safeguard Public Services and Logistics Flow

Indonesian business leaders, led by Apindo chair Shinta Widjaja Kamdani, have urged the government to clarify the implementation of the 50-litre daily limit on subsidised fuel purchases to avoid disruptions to public transport, distribution, and business operations. While acknowledging the policy's intent to target subsidies effectively without hindering essential services, they highlight potential operational frictions such as long queues at fuel stations that could raise logistics costs and indirectly increase prices. The restrictions are viewed as an early signal of global energy supply pressures, with calls for better data transparency alongside government assurances of fuel availability.

Deputy Trade Minister promotes UMKM export expansion through KRI Bima Suci diplomacy

Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti is leveraging the international voyage of KRI Bima Suci to boost export opportunities for Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) by showcasing flagship products to diplomatic representatives from 26 countries. The 197-day "Kartika Jala Krida 2026" mission, visiting nations including Singapore, Sri Lanka, China, Japan, and Russia, facilitates trade diplomacy beyond defence, enhancing national economic synergies between the Navy and the Trade Ministry. This initiative aims to elevate UMKM's global competitiveness, expand market access, and strengthen Indonesia's international trade position.

National Food Agency states rice absorption reaches 1.3 million tonnes, strengthening government rice reserves

The Head of the National Food Agency and Minister of Agriculture, Andi Amran Sulaiman, announced that domestic rice absorption has reached 1.3 million tonnes in the first quarter of 2026, significantly surpassing previous years and bolstering government rice reserves to 4.3 million tonnes. With projections to exceed 5 million tonnes by next month and an accelerated absorption target of 4 million tonnes for the year through Perum Bulog, the government expresses confidence in managing the upcoming dry season and maintaining food self-sufficiency achieved since late 2025. This robust stockpile preparation underscores Indonesia's improved resilience in food security amid seasonal challenges.

KPK Examines Lippo Cikarang Legal Officer, Probes Bekasi Regent's House Purchase

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned Ruri, a legal officer at Lippo Cikarang, as a witness to investigate the purchase of a house by Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang, suspected to be linked to a bribery case involving project kickbacks and gratuities. The examination aims to gather evidence for the ongoing case and facilitate asset recovery, with the regent and his father among those already named as suspects. The bribery scheme, orchestrated by private businessman Sarjan, involved payments totalling Rp11.4 billion to secure 2025 budget work packages, with funds distributed through intermediaries and to various district officials.

KPK Summons East Java Cigarette Entrepreneur as Witness in Customs Bribery Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned cigarette entrepreneur Martinus Suparman for questioning as a witness in an alleged bribery case involving import procedures at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise under the Ministry of Finance. This investigation stems from a prior gratifications case and a recent sting operation that led to seven suspects, including customs officials and company representatives from PT Blueray, with evidence seized worth over Rp40 billion. The case highlights ongoing corruption in the tobacco import sector, particularly affecting producers in East Java and Central Java.

Former PIS CEO Claims Legal Proceedings Against Kerry Riza Have Forced Pertamina to Pay Nine Times More for Ship Rentals

Yoki Firnandi, the former CEO of PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), testified that the corruption case involving the ship rental from PT Jenggala Maritim Nusantara (JMN), owned by Kerry Adrianto Riza, has led to significant financial losses for Pertamina. Previously, the company rented a Suezmax vessel for US$37,000, a rate deemed reasonable by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK), but the legal proceedings forced PIS to terminate the contract, resulting in current rental costs escalating to around US$350,000—nine times higher. Firnandi questioned who truly harmed the state, arguing that the business decision was sound and the case itself has caused the actual detriment.

Unusual Stock Trading Patterns: BEI Closely Monitors These 3 Issuers

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) is closely monitoring the trading activities of three issuers—PT Sumber Energi Andalan Tbk (ITMA), PT LCK Global Kedaton Tbk (LCKM), and PT Kedoya Adyaraya Tbk (RSGK)—due to unusual transaction patterns, as a measure to protect investors. This surveillance does not imply any regulatory violations but urges investors to review the issuers' responses to BEI confirmations, their performance, and disclosure practices before making investment decisions. The move highlights BEI's commitment to maintaining market integrity amid recent sharp fluctuations in the stocks of LCKM and RSGK.

Deputy Chair of DPR Commission VI Claims Government Has New Oil Sources, Fuel Stock and Prices Guaranteed Safe

Wakil Ketua Komisi VI DPR RI Andre Rosiade has claimed that the government has secured new oil sources, ensuring national fuel stocks remain ample and prices stable amid global geopolitical tensions. This assurance comes as Pertamina confirms no price adjustments for subsidised or non-subsidised fuels effective 1 April 2026, urging the public not to panic. The statements highlight the Prabowo administration's preparedness in managing energy supply dynamics, bolstering public confidence in Indonesia's fuel security.

Central Government Agrees to Improve Governance of RSUD in Papua

The central government, in collaboration with Papua province and Jayapura regency authorities, has agreed on concrete steps to enhance healthcare service governance at RSUD Yowari in Papua, aiming to improve access for local residents. Key issues identified include patient delays in emergency care, sanitation problems, and poor inter-hospital referrals, with the Ministry of Health tasked to lead comprehensive evaluations and reforms, including financial and operational guidelines. Commitments from provincial leaders include partnerships with private hospitals, the military, and universities, alongside efforts to resolve land certification for infrastructure development and bolster security measures.

PKB Requests Oversight and Regular Evaluation of WFH Policy Every Friday

Muhammad Khozin from PKB in DPR RI's Commission II has highlighted concerns over the government's decision to implement work from home (WFH) for civil servants every Friday, warning that it could lead to extended weekends and reduced productivity. He calls for consistent monitoring and periodic evaluations by ministries, agencies, and local governments to ensure the policy meets its goals of reducing fuel consumption and controlling air pollution. Khozin also urges better public transportation design and cross-sectoral coordination to maximise the benefits of this initiative, introduced in response to the Middle East conflict.

Indonesia's Exports Grow 1.01% in February 2026, Reaching US$22.1 Billion

Indonesia's exports rose by 1.01% year-on-year to US$22.17 billion in February 2026, according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), driven by increases in metals and minerals amid rising gold prices, though energy exports declined. Cumulatively, exports for January and February totalled US$44.32 billion, up 2.19%, with non-oil and gas commodities contributing the majority at US$42.35 billion, growing 2.82%. This modest growth highlights resilience in key sectors despite global commodity fluctuations, supporting Indonesia's economic outlook.

Pluit Reservoir Overrun by Water Hyacinth, Officials Haul Away Dozens of Trucks in a Day

The Pluit Reservoir in North Jakarta has been overwhelmed by water hyacinth, turning parts of its surface green and prompting a viral response on social media. Authorities deployed excavators, filters, and conveyor systems to remove the invasive plant, hauling away 108 cubic metres on Tuesday and an additional 54 cubic metres by Wednesday afternoon, equivalent to six small trucks. The infestation, attributed to fluctuating weather conditions, is being managed through intensive efforts, with the collected hyacinth processed into compost at environmental facilities to maintain the reservoir's functionality as a key urban water infrastructure.

MPMX Records Profit of Rp462 Billion in 2025, A Peek at the Sources of Its Earnings

PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika Tbk (MPMX) reported a consolidated revenue of Rp16.2 trillion and net profit of Rp462 billion for the audited fiscal year 2025, marking a 19% decline in profit year-on-year due to weakened domestic consumption and macroeconomic dynamics. Despite a slight 1% drop in revenue, gross profit rose 1.7% to Rp1.36 trillion with an improved margin of 8.4%, though operating expenses and lower associate profits pressured operating profit down 2.3%. Business segments showed mixed results, with strong growth in insurance and aftermarket offsetting declines in vehicle distribution and ongoing losses in consumer financing, highlighting MPMX's resilience amid challenging market conditions.

MPMX Records Profit of Rp462 Billion in 2025, Down 19% Amid Consumption Pressures

PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika Tbk (MPMX) reported a consolidated revenue of Rp16.2 trillion and net profit of Rp462 billion for the audited fiscal year 2025, marking a 19% decline in profit year-over-year due to weakening domestic consumption and macroeconomic dynamics. While gross profit rose 1.7% to Rp1.36 trillion with an improved margin of 8.4%, operating expenses and lower associate profits pressured operating profit down 2.3% to Rp674 billion. Diverse segment performances, including growth in insurance and aftermarket but declines in vehicle distribution, highlight the challenges in the automotive and consumer financing sectors.

KPK Holds Evidence of Hajj Association Meeting Related to Quota Scandal

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the role of associations in an alleged corruption case involving the organisation and distribution of Hajj quotas at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, claiming to have crucial data on meetings where officials and associations allegedly colluded on additional quota allocations. These meetings reportedly led to a discretionary 50-50 split of the 20,000 extra slots, deviating from regulations that prioritise reducing waiting lists for regular pilgrims and instead benefiting certain parties at the state's expense. Four suspects have been named, with KPK extending detentions and travel bans on key figures including former Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, underscoring ongoing efforts to combat misuse of authority in religious pilgrimage management.

Get Ready: Indonesia to Soon Have a Rare Earth Minerals Processing Plant

PT Timah (TINS) is set to commence construction of Indonesia's first rare earth minerals processing plant with a groundbreaking ceremony on 20 May 2026, following direct instructions from President Prabowo Subianto. The project aims to accelerate monetisation, with the facility expected to produce economically viable products within two years of starting construction, leveraging the company's tin expertise to tap into high-value applications like electric vehicles and solar energy. This initiative, supported by the newly formed Perminas, marks a significant step in enhancing the economic value of associated minerals in Indonesia's mining sector.

KPK examines Lippo Cikarang legal staff regarding Ade Kunang's house purchase

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined a legal employee from Lippo Cikarang, identified as RR, to probe the purchase of a house by Ade Kuswara Kunang (ADK), the suspended Regent of Bekasi, who is a suspect in a bribery case. The examination, conducted on 31 March 2026 at KPK's headquarters, aims to gather evidence for proving the case and initiating efforts to recover state financial losses. This follows a December 2025 sting operation that resulted in the arrest of ADK, his father HM Kunang, and private individual Sarjan for alleged involvement in bribery related to projects in Bekasi Regency.

Labuan Bajo to Fall Silent for 9 Hours on Good Friday 2026, What Is It?

The Manggarai Barat Regency government in Nusa Tenggara Timur is continuing its 'Silent Friday' programme on Good Friday 2026, restricting activities in Labuan Bajo for nine hours to allow the environment to rest from vehicle noise and promote a peaceful atmosphere. Measures include limiting vehicle use, reducing outdoor activities, electricity consumption, and plastic waste, while encouraging walking to places of worship and turning off loudspeakers. The initiative has been welcomed by local religious leaders, including the Bishop of Labuan Bajo, who noted its alignment with Catholic commemorations such as the living Stations of the Cross, involving thousands of faithful.