Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

Showing 1,451-1,500 of 1,900 articles

Entrepreneurs Introduce Digital Solution for MBG Auditing and Reporting

The Indonesian Association of Nutritious Food Entrepreneurs (Gapembi) has launched ANTRA by GAPEMBI, a digital application designed to provide an integrated solution for auditing and reporting under the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG). Developed based on field input, the app ensures transparent and accountable processes from production to real-time monitoring of nutritional quality and budget usage. This initiative aims to enhance oversight and accountability, positioning Gapembi as a key player in the programme's successful implementation across Indonesia.

IDX Officially Sets Minimum Free Float Limit at 15 Percent

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has updated its Regulation Number I-A to establish a minimum free float requirement of 15 percent for listed companies, effective from 31 March 2026, as part of efforts to enhance corporate quality and investor confidence in the capital market. The new policy introduces a tiered approach based on market capitalisation—15 percent, 20 percent, and 25 percent—and includes special provisions for initial listings and certain shareholders. To facilitate compliance, IDX provides a phased transition period extending up to 31 March 2029 for smaller companies, aligning with broader capital market reform initiatives approved by the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

Video: Iran-US War Serves as "Alarm" for Indonesia to Accelerate Electrification and Renewable Energy

Indonesia's Vice Chairman of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Eddy Soeparno, has highlighted the Middle East conflict's disruption to global energy supply chains and rising oil prices as a critical alert for accelerating electrification and renewable energy development in the country. He advocates reducing energy imports by boosting domestic oil and gas production, expanding renewable energy sources, and building energy reserves to 90 days. Despite challenges like reliance on imported manufacturing components and massive investment needs of Rp 3.7 quadrillion, this situation underscores the urgency for Indonesia to strengthen its energy security amid global tensions.

24-Year Diaspora in Seoul Admires Prabowo's Leadership

A 24-year Indonesian resident in Seoul, Rima from Blitar, East Java, expressed profound admiration for President Prabowo Subianto's authoritative presence and supportive approach towards the diaspora during his official state visit. Having been part of Prabowo's support team in South Korea for nine years, Rima highlighted the rare opportunity to meet the president personally, underscoring his attentiveness to Indonesians abroad who actively follow government programmes. She prayed for his continued health and strength to lead Indonesia towards greater advancement.

House Commission VI: No Fuel Price Hike Proves Prabowo is Ready to Face Global Dynamics

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VI Deputy Chairman Andre Rosiade has praised President Prabowo Subianto's decision to maintain fuel prices amid global geopolitical tensions, noting that 85 countries worldwide, including seven in Southeast Asia, have raised prices while Indonesia has not. He assured the public that fuel stocks are secure and no purchase restrictions are in place, emphasising ongoing coordination with Pertamina to ensure supply stability. This policy underscores the government's commitment to prioritising public welfare, as confirmed by State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi following consultations with the Energy Ministry.

BGN Suspends 1,256 Nutrition Service Units in Eastern Indonesia for Failing to Register SLHS and Lacking Wastewater Treatment Facilities

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended operations of 1,256 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) in eastern Indonesia starting 1 April 2026, due to their failure to register Hygiene and Sanitation Certificates (SLHS) and absence of Wastewater Treatment Installations (IPAL). This action aims to ensure food safety, environmental hygiene standards, and the protection of beneficiaries' health under the National Food Fulfilment programme. Affected units can resume operations after verification once they meet the requirements, with BGN urging immediate compliance.

Apple Showers iPhone Team with Large Bonuses to Prevent Key Talent from Leaving

Apple has approved substantial out-of-cycle bonuses for its iPhone design team, ranging from $200,000 to $400,000 in stock vesting over four years, as a strategy to retain top engineers amid fierce competition from AI firms like OpenAI and Meta. This move addresses concerns over talent exodus, exemplified by the departure of former VP Tang Tan to OpenAI and designer Abidur Chowdhury to Hawk AI, with reports indicating dozens of Apple staff moving to rivals in 2025. While such employee rotation is common in Silicon Valley, Apple's efforts echo a 2021 initiative, though competitors' higher offers may limit its effectiveness in stemming the flow of expertise to the booming AI sector.

Fallen While Escorting UN Convoy, Family in Cimahi Awaits Captain Inf Zulmi's Remains

Captain Inf Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, a TNI soldier serving with the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission in South Lebanon, was killed while escorting a convoy, with his family in Cimahi mourning and awaiting the repatriation of his remains. The incident, part of an Israeli attack that also wounded two other Indonesian troops, prompted Indonesia and France to demand an emergency UN Security Council session to investigate and ensure the safety of peacekeepers. This event underscores Indonesia's active role in global peacekeeping efforts and the risks faced by its personnel amid escalating conflicts in the region.

161 Riau Police Personnel Receive Awards, 52 Honoured with Kapolri Gold Pins

The Riau Regional Police awarded 161 personnel and civilians for their dedication in uncovering major cases, including wildlife hunting, narcotics, and illegal logging, with 52 receiving gold pins from National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo. Chief of Riau Police Irjen Pol Herry Heryawan emphasised the awards as recognition of contributions to security and environmental preservation, underscoring a commitment to justice for both people and ecosystems. He also warned of strict enforcement against internal violations to uphold the police's integrity.

Mourners and Floral Tributes Arrive at the Funeral Home of Fallen TNI Soldier in Cimahi Who Died in Lebanon

Captain Inf Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, a 33-year-old Indonesian Army officer serving with the UN peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, was killed on 30 March 2026 by an explosion while escorting a patrol convoy. Mourners, including family and high-ranking officials, gathered at his family home in Cimahi, West Java, where floral tributes from figures such as the Foreign Minister, West Java Governor, and Army Chief of Staff lined the streets. The family awaits the repatriation of his remains, highlighting the sacrifices of Indonesian peacekeepers in international missions.

Israel Reluctant to Join if US Launches Ground Attack on Iran

Amid ongoing US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran, President Donald Trump is considering a ground invasion, but Israeli military sources indicate they will not participate in any such operation, leaving US troops to fight alone. This stance has drawn sharp criticism in Washington from anti-war groups and 'America First' advocates, who fear it could drag the US into a costly and risky conflict reminiscent of the Vietnam War. Experts warn that a poor outcome could undermine US military dominance in the region and portray Israel as a liability rather than a strategic asset.

Andre Rosiade Urges Utilisation of Bukit Asam Land in Sawahlunto for Public Benefit

Wakil Ketua Komisi VI DPR RI, Andre Rosiade, has called for the resolution of issues surrounding unused land owned by state-owned enterprise PT Bukit Asam Tbk in Sawahlunto, West Sumatra, to enable its use for regional development without the company losing its assets. He proposes a Hak Guna Bangunan (HGB) scheme over Hak Pengelolaan Lahan (HPL) to allow the land to be developed into public facilities such as police offices, prosecutor's offices, courts, and local government buildings. This initiative aims to benefit all parties by facilitating public infrastructure while preserving BUMN ownership, with Rosiade planning further coordination to advance discussions.

Stable Financial Condition Enables Peruri to Retain AAA Rating from Pefindo

Perum Percetakan Uang Republik Indonesia (Peruri) has maintained its top 'AAA' rating from PT Pemeringkat Efek Indonesia (Pefindo) for the third consecutive year, reflecting superior long-term financial commitments compared to other Indonesian obligors. This achievement, based on audited financials as of 31 December 2025, also includes a 'very healthy' financial health category, bolstering Peruri's position amid its ongoing digital transformation. The rating validates the company's strategic direction in expanding digital security services while upholding its core security printing expertise, supporting national economic growth in the digital era.

Workplace Outlook Grows Bleaker, Mass Layoffs Prompt Collective Blame on Scapegoat

Global technology giants including Google, Amazon, Meta, and others are increasingly attributing mass layoffs to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI), shifting from previous narratives of mere efficiency drives. Executives like Meta's Mark Zuckerberg predict AI will drastically transform work by 2026, enabling smaller teams to achieve more, while massive investments—up to US$650 billion across major firms—necessitate cost-cutting in workforce to appease investors. Critics argue this AI blame serves as a more palatable narrative than traditional cost pressures, highlighting the tension between innovation funding and job security in the tech sector.

Attorney General's Office Conducts Searches in Two Provinces Related to Samin Tan Case

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has intensified its investigation into alleged corruption in the mining sector involving businessman Samin Tan by conducting searches in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, and Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, targeting shipping documents and electronic evidence related to PT Asmin Koalindo Tuhup's mineral distribution. These operations, part of a broader probe, follow previous large-scale searches across 14 locations in Jakarta, West Java, and Kalimantan, where crucial documents and items were seized to uncover potential legal violations in coal mining activities. This development underscores Kejagung's aggressive pursuit of high-profile corruption cases in Indonesia's resource extraction industry, potentially exposing systemic issues in oversight and export practices.

CPO Prices Surge Due to Geopolitical Conditions and High Demand

The Indonesian Ministry of Trade has set the reference price for crude palm oil (CPO) at US$989.63 per metric tonne for April 2026, marking a 5.41% increase from March due to heightened global demand, supply constraints from reduced production, and rising crude oil prices amid Middle Eastern geopolitical tensions. This adjustment raises the export duty to US$148 per MT and the export levy to US$123.70 per MT, based on averaged prices from Indonesian, Malaysian, and Rotterdam markets. The changes reflect ongoing regulatory efforts to balance export revenues with domestic market stability in Indonesia's key agricultural sector.

KPK summons cigarette entrepreneur from Pasuruan, East Java

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Martinus Suparman, a cigarette entrepreneur from Pasuruan, East Java, as a witness in an alleged corruption case within the Directorate General of Customs and Excise of the Ministry of Finance. This examination follows a series of arrests and investigations, including a sting operation in February 2026 that led to multiple suspects, involving bribery and gratifications related to the importation of counterfeit goods and excise management. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption in customs and excise operations, with recent seizures underscoring the scale of potential illicit activities.

RSCM States Andrie Yunus's Psychological Condition is Stable, Set to Undergo Further Surgery

RSUP Nasional Dr Cipto Mangunkusumo (RSCM) reports that Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of the Commission for Missing Persons and Victims of Violence (KontraS), who was attacked with sulphuric acid, has a stable psychological condition despite the traumatic incident, and is under continuous multidisciplinary medical monitoring. His wounds show improvement with new skin grafts on affected areas, and he recently underwent a third surgery on his right eye to repair thinning cornea and leakage, which will be temporarily closed for about four months to aid healing. The military police have arrested four suspects from the TNI's Denma Bais unit, and investigations are ongoing, highlighting concerns over violence against human rights advocates.

Kemenkum Riau Islands Office Administers Oath for Dual-Nationality Children to Become Indonesian Citizens

The Riau Islands Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights has administered the oath of allegiance to three children of mixed Indonesian-Malaysian marriages, officially granting them Indonesian citizenship under Government Regulation No. 21 of 2022. This procedure addresses administrative challenges faced by such children and underscores the state's commitment to providing legal certainty in citizenship matters. The event highlights Indonesia's dedication to fostering national unity and respect for diversity among its new citizens.

Restrictions on Subsidised Fuel Purchases Signal Anticipation of Energy Crisis

The Indonesian government's policy to restrict purchases of subsidised fuel is viewed by economists as an early warning system to prepare the public for potential global energy supply pressures, aiming to control domestic consumption and prevent stockpiling without immediately hindering mobility. While holding prices steady for non-subsidised fuels like Pertalite and Pertamax helps maintain purchasing power amid global inflation threats, it increases the fiscal burden and necessitates fundamental reforms to target subsidies more effectively. Business groups urge clear implementation to avoid disruptions to distribution and operations, with calls for greater data transparency on fuel availability.

Farewell Juwono Sudarsono: Reflections on Indonesia's Defence Reforms

The passing of Professor Juwono Sudarsono, Indonesia's first civilian Defence Minister in the Reformasi era, is mourned as a poignant loss of intellectual leadership in civil-military relations. His legacy includes successfully persuading the military to withdraw from practical politics, separating the police from military control, and promoting soldier professionalism to restore the TNI's credibility. Amid rising concerns over militarism's resurgence, Sudarsono's scholarly approach to defence as a public good shines as a fading beacon for democratic stability.

Prabowo Meets South Korean President, Welcomed with State Ceremony at Blue House

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held a meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the Blue House, where he was greeted with a formal state ceremony on Wednesday morning local time. The warm embrace between the two leaders signalled strong personal ties and positive developments in bilateral diplomatic relations, highlighted by the playing of national anthems and an inspection of honour guards. Accompanying Prabowo were key Indonesian ministers including Foreign Affairs Minister Sugiono, Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto, and others, underscoring the visit's importance for strengthening ties in economy, investment, and technology sectors.

KPK Examines Cigarette Entrepreneur Liem Eng Hwie as Witness, Probes Cigarette Excise Handling at Customs

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is questioning cigarette entrepreneur Liem Eng Hwie from Central Java as a witness in an ongoing corruption case involving the importation of goods at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC). The examination focuses on the procedures for handling cigarette excise duties, as KPK aims to deepen its understanding of the mechanisms and expedite the case to prosecution amid time constraints on detentions. This probe follows the naming of several DJBC officials as suspects, highlighting potential bribery in excise and import processes.

Regarding "Zebra Cross" in Tebet, Provincial Government Urged to Strengthen Collaboration

Yuke Yurike, Chair of Commission D of the DKI Jakarta DPRD, has praised the community's initiative in creating a Pac-Man themed zebra crossing in Tebet, South Jakarta, and called for the provincial government to collaborate with residents to enhance public infrastructure. She emphasised that such involvement should integrate into the oversight system to improve environmental management, while ensuring designs comply with traffic safety regulations to avoid hazards in high-risk areas. Yurike suggested that creative zebra crossings could be implemented in low-risk zones, serving as educational tools to promote orderly pedestrian behaviour, particularly among children.

KPK summons five witnesses in case of three prosecutors from North Hulu Sungai in Palu

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned five private sector witnesses for examination in Palu regarding an alleged extortion case involving three prosecutors from the North Hulu Sungai District Prosecutor's Office in South Kalimantan. This follows a December 2025 sting operation that led to the arrest of six individuals, including the head of the office, with three later named as suspects in the extortion during law enforcement processes. The summoning underscores KPK's ongoing efforts to combat corruption within the judiciary, as one suspect was recently handed over by the Attorney General's Office and detained.

US Troops to Be Withdrawn from Iran in 2-3 Weeks, Says Trump

President Donald Trump announced that US forces will withdraw from Iran within two to three weeks, marking the end of military operations against the country following a series of airstrikes that have significantly weakened Iran's military capabilities and led to the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump claimed that the objectives of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons have been achieved, and a regime change has occurred, potentially paving the way for more moderate leadership. The conflict has resulted in over 1,340 deaths in Iran, 13 US soldier casualties, and disruptions to global oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, amid rising energy prices.

Unismuh and Singapore Polytechnic Develop Livestock Research in Pangkep

Universitas Muhammadiyah (Unismuh) Makassar is collaborating with Singapore Polytechnic on research and innovation to support the livestock and agriculture sectors in Tondong Tallasa, Pangkep Regency, South Sulawesi, through the International Community Service Learning Express 2026 programme. The initiative, scheduled from 31 March to 10 April 2026, involves three community projects assisting aren sugar farmers, beekeepers, and cattle farmers, with participants using design thinking to develop prototypes. This partnership highlights the role of academic collaboration in empowering rural communities and advancing sustainable agricultural practices in Indonesia.

Manpower Minister: Creative Industry Can Open New Job Opportunities

Indonesia's Manpower Minister Yassierli has emphasised the need to support the creative industry for its potential to generate new employment opportunities and foster industrial growth. During a visit to a magang programme in Semarang, he highlighted how the sector serves as an innovative laboratory for the national internship initiative, providing participants with practical skills, creativity, and collaboration experience. The programme aims to equip recent graduates with six months of hands-on training, leading to measurable competency improvements and better employability in the job market.

Family Awaits Confirmation of Fallen Captain Zulmi's Return from Lebanon

The family of Captain Inf Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, a TNI soldier killed in a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon, is awaiting the repatriation of his body following an explosion during a patrol convoy on 30 March 2026. Relatives received confirmation of his death on 31 March, with condolences pouring in, including floral tributes from Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Deputy Foreign Ministers Annis Mata and Arrmanatha Nasir. As a member of the Indonesian Garuda Contingent (KONGA) XVIII-S under the UNIFIL mission, Captain Zulmi's sacrifice underscores the risks faced by Indonesian troops in international peacekeeping efforts.

Strengthening Diplomacy, Navy Chief Launches KRI Bima Suci Voyage to 8 Countries

The Indonesian Navy has dispatched its tall-masted sailing ship, KRI Bima Suci-945, on a 124-day international goodwill mission named Kartika Jala Krida 2026, aimed at fostering diplomatic ties in the Asia-Pacific region and honing the skills of young officer cadets. The voyage involves 79 Indonesian naval cadets and 52 participants from 24 friendly nations under the ASEAN Plus Cadet Sail programme, covering 16,877 nautical miles while prioritising diplomatic interactions alongside technical training in navigation and astronomy. In response to global tensions in the Middle East and Mediterranean, the route has been rerouted to safer Asian ports, following consultations with the Foreign Ministry and ambassadors to ensure personnel security.

The Continuation of the Iran War and Assessing Donald Trump's Options-Risks

This opinion piece examines the potential decisions facing US President Donald Trump as the Iran War approaches its fifth week, originally planned as the conflict's endpoint. It outlines three primary options—pursuing negotiations, launching massive strikes on Iran's vital infrastructure, or unilaterally ending the war while allowing Iran to retain control of the Strait of Hormuz—each carrying significant risks amid domestic unpopularity and upcoming elections. The analysis highlights how Trump's contradictory statements reflect these strategic considerations, influencing financial market sentiments and providing a window for a major announcement during the Good Friday market closure.

Culture Minister: Middle East Conflict Threatens Existence of Cultural Heritage

Indonesian Culture Minister Fadli Zon has warned that the escalating violence in the Middle East not only endangers civilians but also poses a severe threat to cultural heritage sites and intangible traditions across the region. He emphasised that such conflicts erode historical memory, social values, and opportunities for post-conflict reconciliation, urging all parties to respect international humanitarian law and protect cultural assets from destruction and misuse. The ministry expressed condolences for the deaths of three Indonesian peacekeepers in Lebanon and reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to global peace and the safeguarding of shared human heritage.

President Prabowo arrives in Seoul, enthusiastically welcomed by Indonesian diaspora

President Prabowo Subianto arrived in Seoul on Tuesday night for a state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and South Korea, where he was warmly greeted by hundreds of enthusiastic Indonesian expatriates. Students and long-term residents expressed pride and motivation from brief interactions with the President, highlighting the personal impact of his visit. The diaspora hopes the trip will further solidify diplomatic ties, benefiting communities in both nations.

Soligi Zero Stunting Programme Becomes Effort to Reduce Stunting in North Maluku

The Soligi Zero Stunting programme, led by Harita Nickel in collaboration with the North Maluku provincial government and local communities, has made significant strides in combating child stunting on Obi Island, achieving a notable reduction from 25 to 4 cases in the village by the end of 2025. This initiative integrates nutrition interventions, health education, infrastructure development like health posts and clean water sources, and community empowerment, contributing to the province's overall stunting prevalence drop from 31.4% in 2018 to 23.2% in 2024. Recognised with the Subroto 2025 award from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, the programme exemplifies effective public-private partnerships in enhancing human resource quality and long-term societal productivity in remote Indonesian regions.

Atmosphere at the Funeral Home of Captain Inf Zulmi, Who Fell in Israeli Attack in Lebanon

The funeral home of Captain Inf Zulmi Aditya Iskandar in Cimahi, West Java, is drawing crowds of mourners and floral tributes following his death in an Israeli attack while escorting a UNIFIL convoy in southern Lebanon on 30 March 2026. The 33-year-old Indonesian soldier's family awaits news on the repatriation of his body, with the government currently handling evacuation and flight arrangements amid ongoing conflict. This incident highlights Indonesia's military involvement in UN peacekeeping missions and the risks faced by its personnel in volatile regions.

Holiday Raid: BPJPH Educates Market Traders on Mandatory Halal Certification

The Head of the Halal Product Assurance Organising Agency (BPJPH), Ahmad Haikal Hasan, conducted a surprise inspection at Kramat Jati Market on a holiday to reinforce the commitment to halal product assurance and educate traders on mandatory halal certification. During the visit, he inspected various commodities, engaged directly with vendors to explain certification processes, and emphasised the agency's supportive role in ensuring compliance ahead of the October 2026 enforcement deadline. This initiative aims to make markets like Kramat Jati models of halal compliance, protecting consumers by preventing cross-contamination and clarifying product statuses.

Asia Not United Against the US Dollar: Baht and Rupee Weaker than the Rupiah!

Asian currencies showed mixed performance against the US dollar on Wednesday morning, with the Philippine peso leading gains at 0.43% while the Thai baht weakened the most at 0.40%. The Indonesian rupiah depreciated 0.15% to Rp17,015 per US dollar, breaching the psychological Rp17,000 level for the first time intraday amid easing safe-haven demand for the dollar. This volatility stems from receding tensions in the US-Iran conflict, as President Trump's signals of a potential military wind-down contribute to a 0.17% drop in the dollar index to 99.793, highlighting ongoing uncertainties in global markets.

Neglected Animal Slaughterhouse for 20 Years, Improvement Proposals Ignored

The Technical Implementation Unit (UPT) for the Animal Slaughterhouse (RPH) in West Lombok Regency has been in a dilapidated state for nearly two decades, with proposals for repairs repeatedly ignored by local authorities due to budget constraints. Despite daily operations slaughtering one to three animals on weekdays and up to dozens during holidays, the facility lacks basic standards including proper cutting tools, waste disposal, clean water, refrigeration, and sanitation, failing to meet Veterinary Control Number (NKV) requirements for hygiene. The manager and head urge the regency government to prioritise renovations to ensure public safety, boost local revenue through levies, and elevate the facility to acceptable standards.

Israeli Attack Kills Three TNI Soldiers, DPR Member Urges UN Emergency Session

An Israeli attack in Lebanon has resulted in the deaths of three Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) soldiers serving with the UN peacekeeping force (UNIFIL), prompting a member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) to call for an emergency session of the UN Security Council to address the violation and ensure accountability. DPR Commission I member Oleh Soleh also urged the government to evaluate and potentially withdraw TNI personnel from the conflict zone to prioritise their safety. The Indonesian government is coordinating with UNIFIL to secure personnel and provide medical care for the injured, highlighting the risks faced by Indonesian peacekeepers abroad.

UAD PSKP Survey: Muhammadiyah in the Eyes of Young People is Not About Rituals

A national survey by the Public Policy Studies Centre (PSKP) at Universitas Ahmad Dahlan reveals that young Indonesians aged 17-40 primarily associate Muhammadiyah with quality schools and campuses (44.1%) and as a modern and rational organisation (42.3%), rather than religious rituals like early fasting or specific tarawih rak'ahs. Millennials tend to link it with educational and charitable enterprises, while Gen Z admires its flexible and logical religious approach, indicating Muhammadiyah's success in appealing to digital generations. The findings underscore a shift away from ritual debates towards perceptions of Muhammadiyah as a robust social enterprise ecosystem.

Rupiah Exchange Rate Today, 1 April 2026: Strengthens Thanks to Inflow of Foreign Capital

The Indonesian rupiah opened strongly on 1 April 2026, appreciating by 0.19% to Rp16,986 per US dollar, driven by a weakening US dollar index amid signs of cooling US inflation that bolster expectations of Federal Reserve monetary easing. Positive domestic sentiment from stable economic conditions and foreign capital inflows into Indonesian stocks and bonds provided additional support, despite ongoing global uncertainties in 2026. Analysts forecast the rupiah to trade between Rp16,950 and Rp17,050 today, urging caution ahead of upcoming US labour data, with Indonesia's robust foreign reserves offering a buffer for Bank Indonesia interventions.

KPK Summons Director of Ministry of Finance Subsidiary as Witness

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned Yuli Priyanto, Director of PT Karabha Digdaya—a subsidiary of the Ministry of Finance—as a witness in a bribery case involving judges at the Depok District Court over a 6,500-square-metre land dispute in Tapos sub-district. This follows a February 2026 sting operation that led to the arrest of seven individuals, including court officials and company executives, with five subsequently named as suspects for corruption and one for alleged gratification involving Rp2.5 billion. The case underscores ongoing efforts to combat judicial corruption in land dispute resolutions tied to state-owned enterprises.

Ahead of Relocation Deadline, Residents' Houses in Kamal on TPU Land Demolished

In Jakarta's Kamal neighbourhood, residents' homes on land owned by the city's Parks and Forest Service are being demolished as the April 2026 relocation deadline approaches. On-site observations reveal that many makeshift structures, built with basic materials like wood and plywood, have been reduced to rubble, though some areas still show signs of ongoing daily life. This eviction process highlights the challenges faced by informal settlements on public cemetery land, affecting families like that of resident Zainudin.

Pramono Claims Jakarta's Waste Has Been Managed, Yet Piles Remain at Kramat Jati Main Market

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has claimed that all waste across the city has been handled, but significant piles of rubbish continue to accumulate at the temporary storage site in Kramat Jati Main Market, East Jakarta, due to operational restrictions at the Bantargebang integrated waste processing facility in Bekasi. Local traders and shoppers report daily collection efforts but complain of persistent high volumes, reaching up to six metres, dominated by vegetable and fruit waste, causing strong odours that disrupt daily activities. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in Jakarta's waste management infrastructure amid urban pressures.

Pramono to Hold Meeting on Implementing WFH for Civil Servants

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo is set to convene a meeting with his team to discuss the implementation of work-from-home (WFH) policies for civil servants (ASN) every Friday, starting from 1 April 2026, while ensuring public services remain uninterrupted. Essential sectors such as health, social assistance, and education will be exempt, with Pramono emphasising that frontline workers in 44 puskesmas, 292 auxiliary health centres, and 31 hospitals must continue on-site duties. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto noted that the policy, which also encourages private sector WFH via a Labour Ministry circular, excludes critical areas like security, energy, and finance, with education maintaining face-to-face learning for primary and secondary levels.

Blora Regent dismisses acting DPRD secretary after using official vehicle for personal purposes

Blora Regent Arief Rohman has dismissed Agus Listiyono from his position as acting Secretary of the Blora DPRD after he admitted to using an official vehicle for personal travel during Eid al-Fitr, including visits to family outside the district. The replacement by Assistant III of the Regional Secretariat, effective 1 April 2026, serves as a firm reminder to all civil servants to avoid misusing state facilities, accompanied by a formal reprimand letter. This action underscores the local government's commitment to enforcing discipline and compliance with regulations from the KPK and Ministry of PANRB prohibiting personal use of government assets.

List of Public Service Sectors Exempt from Friday Work-from-Home in Jakarta, Here are the Details

The Jakarta administration has introduced a work-from-home policy for civil servants every Friday, but it exempts essential public service sectors to ensure uninterrupted operations. Governor Pramono Anung stated that health facilities, high-level provincial and local government positions, and key administrative roles must continue working from the office, with mechanisms in place to prevent misuse and promote public transport use. This measure balances employee flexibility with the need to maintain normal public services amid urban challenges.

WFH for Civil Servants Every Friday: Ministry of Religious Affairs Secretary General: Must Truly Be at Home and "On Standby"

The Indonesian government has introduced a Work Culture Transformation and Energy Efficiency Policy effective from 1 April 2026, mandating civil servants to work from home every Friday to promote adaptability and energy savings. The Secretary General of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Kamaruddin Amin, stressed that this is not "work from anywhere" but requires employees to remain at home, maintain active communication via mobile phones, and respond promptly to superiors to ensure productivity and digital discipline. This initiative aims to foster a more efficient and structured work rhythm amid evolving societal needs.

Commission I Appreciates KDM's Swift Response in Saving Bandung Zoo

The West Java Provincial Legislative Council's Commission I has praised Kang Dedi Mulyadi (KDM) for his rapid intervention in addressing the crisis at Bandung Zoo, including paying two months of overdue employee salaries and providing paramedics for animal care. This action is seen as a vital humanitarian and animal welfare effort amid management conflicts and operational disruptions under the authority of the Bandung City Government and the Forestry Ministry. Commission I plans to monitor developments and push for cross-party coordination to ensure sustainable solutions, highlighting the priority of employee rights and animal protection to maintain the zoo's conservation and educational functions.

Viral: MBG Vehicles in Lombok Used to Pick Up Passengers and Tourists, BGN Investigates

Two vehicles from the Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) under the Makan Bergizi Gratis (MBG) programme in West Nusa Tenggara have allegedly been misused to transport passengers from Lombok International Airport and for tourism to Malimbu Beach. The allegations surfaced after viral social media videos prompted public outcry, leading the Badan Gizi Nasional (BGN) regional coordinator to initiate an investigation. BGN has instructed local units to identify the vehicles and owners, with plans for follow-up actions once confirmed, highlighting concerns over the proper use of government resources for nutritional programmes.