Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

Showing 1,601-1,650 of 1,900 articles

Corruption Funds from Hajj Quota Case Flow to Several Ministry of Religious Affairs Officials

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has named two new suspects in the 2023-2024 Hajj quota corruption case: Ismail Adham, Operational Director of PT Maktour, and Asrul Azis Taba, Commissioner of PT Raudah Eksati Utama and Chairman of Kesthuri. The suspects are accused of illegally arranging additional special Hajj quotas beyond the 8% limit set by law and providing bribes to Ministry of Religious Affairs officials, including meetings with former Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and his special staff Iqbal Abdul Aziz. KPK estimates that eight affiliated Hajj travel bureaus profited unlawfully by Rp40.8 billion, facilitated by a US$406,000 payment to Gus Alex, highlighting systemic corruption in Hajj quota allocation.

512,000 Lines of Anthropic's Claude AI Code Leaked Due to a Small 60 MB File

Anthropic, the AI company behind Claude, experienced a significant security breach when over 512,000 lines of internal TypeScript code from its Claude Code CLI tool were inadvertently exposed through a mispackaged NPM software release containing an open source map file. This leak, which revealed sensitive details on system prompts, agentic architectures, internal APIs, inter-process communication protocols, and encryption mechanisms, was quickly archived and disseminated by the developer community across platforms like GitHub, despite not including AI model weights or user data. As the second such incident in a year, it underscores fundamental lapses in AI industry security amid fierce competition, potentially providing competitors with blueprints of modern AI system design and operations.

School Buses to Become Public Transport in Bogor

The Bogor City Government is studying the repurposing of underutilised school buses, launched in 2019, to serve as feeder transport on Corridors 3 and 4, addressing gaps in public transportation for residents. Mayor Dedie A. Rachim highlighted that the buses are in good condition and this initiative represents an innovative response to a Rp 300 billion cut in regional transfer funds (TKD), ensuring the vehicles are maintained and provide better service without additional financing burdens. This move aims to optimise existing assets and enhance accessibility in the city.

KPK: Kesthuri Chairman Abroad Does Not Hinder Haji Quota Case Investigation

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has stated that the presence of suspect Asrul Aziz Taba, former Chairman of the Indonesian Hajj and Umrah Tour Travel Association (Kesthuri), in Saudi Arabia does not impede the ongoing investigation into the alleged corruption case involving hajj quotas. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo expressed confidence in Taba's cooperation following communications with investigators and plans to coordinate with Saudi authorities to expedite his return to Indonesia. This case, which involves significant state financial losses of Rp622 billion, has already seen the naming of several suspects, including former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat corruption in religious pilgrimage allocations.

Dasco Says Government Committed to Ensuring Fuel Stock Availability

Deputy Speaker of the DPR, Sufmi Dasco Ahmad, has affirmed the government's commitment under President Prabowo to monitor and maintain the availability of fuel (BBM) for the public, following assurances that no price hikes for subsidised or non-subsidised fuel will occur on 1 April 2026. State Secretary Prasetyo Hadi echoed this, stating that Pertamina will not adjust prices and urging citizens not to panic or hoard fuel, as domestic stocks remain sufficient. This coordinated response from the government and energy ministry aims to provide clear information and prevent unnecessary queues at petrol stations amid public concerns.

Thousands of Ex-Husbands in Surabaya Blocked by Civil Registry Due to Unpaid Alimony

The Surabaya City Government has suspended civil registry services for thousands of ex-husbands who have failed to fulfil court-ordered alimony obligations following divorce, in a collaborative effort with the Religious Court to protect women's and children's rights. This integrated system automatically flags defaulters, preventing them from accessing services until payments are made, and has been praised internationally, with Australia's highest judicial body visiting in 2024. The initiative is under consideration to become a national programme, addressing high non-compliance rates such as 4,701 unresolved child support cases and 5,161 outstanding iddah alimony claims.

DJP: Tourism Sector Still Dominant in Contributing to Tax Revenue in Bali

The Bali Regional Tax Office reports that the tourism sector continues to lead tax revenue contributions on the island, reaching Rp2.25 trillion by February 2026, accounting for 31.09% growth compared to the previous year. This reflects a positive recovery in tourism driven by increased domestic and international visitor numbers, with overall tax realisation at 9.26% of the annual target of Rp24.31 trillion, up 13.60% from 2025. Compliance remains strong, with 156,037 annual income tax returns filed for the 2025 tax year, and the government has extended the filing deadline for individuals to 30 April 2026 with waived penalties.

No Fuel Price Hike, Banten Governor Urges Residents Not to Panic

Banten Governor Andra Soni has reassured the public that fuel prices will remain unchanged as of 1 April 2026, urging residents to avoid panic buying and unnecessary queues at petrol stations. He praised the central government's decision, directed by President Prabowo Subianto, to maintain stability amid global economic pressures. Additionally, Soni supported work-from-home policies to promote fuel savings, instructing civil servants to reduce non-essential travel.

Following Central Decision, Pramono Prepares Technical Regulations for DKI ASN WFH Every Friday

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung is preparing detailed technical rules to implement the central government's policy of work-from-home (WFH) for civil servants (ASN) every Friday, ensuring public services remain uninterrupted. He expressed relief that WFH is scheduled for Fridays rather than Wednesdays, avoiding conflicts with routine public transport activities, and specified that essential sectors like health, education, and social services must continue on-site operations. To prevent misuse, the rules will prohibit personal vehicle use during WFH and include oversight by the Regional Personnel Agency, with the policy responding to the impacts of the Middle East conflict.

Beware of Traffic Jams: Three Protests to Be Held Simultaneously in Jakarta Today

Three protests are scheduled to take place simultaneously at 10:00 WIB in Central Jakarta on Wednesday, including one by Merah Putih activists at Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat in Gambir and another by workers from PT Dua Kuda Indonesia at the Central Jakarta District Court in Kemayoran. Police have deployed 562 personnel to secure the events, with situational traffic management in place to handle potential disruptions. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the areas to prevent traffic congestion.

Breaking News! IHSG Soars 2%, Bank Stocks Celebrate

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) surged over 2% in early trading on Wednesday, reaching 7,194.46, driven primarily by gains in major banking stocks amid a positive market sentiment. The rally responds to government policies aimed at mitigating the global energy price disruptions from the Iran-US-Israel conflict, including work-from-home mandates for civil servants, fuel savings, budget refocusing, and adjustments to the free nutritious meals programme, as outlined in an eight-point transformation policy by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto. While Asian markets also rebounded on US President Trump's signals of troop withdrawal, domestic energy supplies remain secure despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, with no planned hikes in non-subsidised fuel prices.

Indonesia's Manufacturing Performance Declines Due to Iran War

Indonesia's manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) fell to 50.1 in March, marking the first contraction in months, primarily due to the outbreak of war in the Middle East involving Iran, the US, and Israel, which has driven up supply and raw material costs. This has led to reduced production, demand, and employment in the sector, alongside sharper increases in input and output prices not seen in years, exacerbating global economic volatility. Despite these challenges, Indonesian manufacturers remain cautiously optimistic about the coming year, hoping for improved demand and no further escalation in the region.

Breaking! US Dollar Breaches Rp17,000

The Indonesian rupiah weakened against the US dollar on Wednesday, breaching the psychological level of Rp17,000 per dollar for the first time in the spot market, marking its weakest intraday position ever. Despite an initial slight strengthening at the opening to Rp16,985, the rupiah reversed course amid ongoing domestic pressures, even as the US dollar index (DXY) declined. This failure to capitalise on the dollar's correction underscores significant challenges for Indonesia's currency amid broader economic strains.

At the Blue House Door, South Korean President Welcomes Prabowo

President Prabowo Subianto was warmly welcomed by South Korean President Lee Jae-myung at the Blue House in Seoul on Wednesday, marking the start of an official state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. The ceremony included handshakes, embraces, national anthems, and introductions of key ministers from both nations, such as Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono and Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto. This visit is expected to enhance the strategic partnership between Indonesia and South Korea, fostering broader opportunities for mutual cooperation.

Prabowo Arrives at Blue House, Meets South Korean President Lee Jae-myung

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto arrived at South Korea's Blue House on Wednesday, where he was warmly welcomed by President Lee Jae-myung for a series of bilateral meetings. The discussions are set to focus on strengthening cooperation in strategic sectors including artificial intelligence, infrastructure, shipbuilding, nuclear energy, energy transition, cultural creative industries, trade, investment, and defence. This visit coincides with the 53rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and South Korea, underscoring the deepening ties between the two nations.

JCI Today, 1 April 2026: Opens Strongly, Driven by Optimism from Economic Data

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened trading on 1 April 2026 with a significant gain of 101.03 points or 1.39%, reaching 7,348.27, buoyed by positive domestic economic data and a strengthening rupiah. The LQ45 index also rose by 2.17% to 1,006.20, with foreign investor inflows returning to banking and infrastructure sectors, while regional Asian markets followed Wall Street's positive close. Analysts predict a fluctuating but upward trend for the day, with market focus shifting to upcoming inflation data, though caution is advised against potential profit-taking.

BGN Suspends 1,256 SPPG Units Due to Lack of SLHS and IPAL

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has suspended 1,256 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) in eastern Indonesia starting 1 April 2026 for failing to register Hygiene and Sanitation Fitness Certificates (SLHS) and lacking Wastewater Treatment Installations (IPAL). This action ensures compliance with food safety and environmental cleanliness standards under the free nutritious meal programme (MBG), protecting the health of beneficiaries. BGN will monitor progress and allow suspended units to resume operations after verification once requirements are met.

JCI Strengthens Driven by Expectations of De-escalation in US-Iran Conflict

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) opened stronger on Wednesday morning, gaining 1.43% to 7,149.25, buoyed by market optimism over potential de-escalation in the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which has eased oil prices and supported global stock rallies. Domestically, investors await key economic data including a projected slowdown in manufacturing PMI, a trade surplus of $1.2 billion, and inflation at 4.9% year-on-year, while government announcements on stable fuel prices, work-from-home policies for civil servants, accelerated B50 biodiesel implementation, and budget efficiencies up to Rp130 trillion add to the positive sentiment. This rebound highlights Indonesia's stock market resilience amid international geopolitical shifts and supportive domestic policies.

South Kalimantan Forestry Service Cracks Down on Illegal Gold Mining in Tahura Sultan Adam

The South Kalimantan Forestry Service has taken action against illegal gold mining activities in the protected Tahura Sultan Adam forest area in Banjar Regency, seizing equipment such as diesel engines, generators, and manual tools from local workers. Officials documented the miners from nearby villages and installed warning banners to educate the public on the conservation status of the area, while committing to further investigation to enforce the law. This operation underscores the provincial government's dedication to the Green Revolution programme, safeguarding ecosystems and ensuring sustainable natural resources for the community.

Jakarta Civil Servants to Work from Home Every Friday, Pramono Requests These Sectors to Continue Reporting to Offices

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has introduced a policy mandating work from home (WFH) for civil servants every Friday to encourage public transport use and reduce traffic congestion. Governor Pramono Anung emphasised that essential public services such as health, social assistance, and education must maintain on-site operations to ensure uninterrupted service delivery. The administration is developing detailed regulations, including oversight mechanisms and restrictions on private vehicle use, to implement the policy effectively.

JCI Opens in Green Territory, Up 1.31% to 7,140.44

Indonesia's Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) opened higher on Wednesday (1/4/2026), gaining 92.22 points or 1.31% to reach 7,140.44, driven by a majority of advancing shares amid positive market momentum. Trading frequency stood at 99,340 transactions with a market capitalisation of Rp12,576 trillion, while key indices like KOMPAS100 and IDX30 also posted gains of over 1.6%. Market participants remain focused on global and domestic sentiments that could shape the index's direction throughout the day.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy: Work Culture Transformation and Efficiency Policies Take Effect on 1 April

The Indonesian government has implemented national work culture transformation and energy efficiency policies effective 1 April 2026, aimed at adapting to global dynamics and bolstering economic resilience amid stable national finances. Key measures include mandatory one-day weekly work-from-home for civil servants, encouragement for private sector adoption, and significant cuts in official travel and vehicle usage, alongside a Rp121-130 trillion budget refocusing for priority programmes. Essential public services remain fully operational, with subsidized fuel purchases limited to 50 litres daily via the MyPertamina app to promote efficiency.

Minister of Culture Supports Public Initiatives to Strengthen Cultural Diplomacy

Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has expressed strong support for the Berbudaya Festival, a community-driven initiative aimed at bolstering Indonesia's role as a host for international cultural events and fostering cross-border collaborations. The festival will begin with national-scale activities in 2026, culminating in a major international event, involving music performances, cultural exhibitions, and engagement from communities and SMEs. This endorsement underscores the government's commitment to measured support for cultural programmes, enhancing national cultural ecosystems and global diplomacy through curated funding and partnerships.

PIHPS: Bird's Eye Chilli Price Rp115,000/kg, Chicken Meat Rp50,000/kg

The National Strategic Food Price Information Centre (PIHPS), managed by Bank Indonesia, reports that as of 1 April 2026, the price of red bird's eye chilli has surged to Rp115,000 per kg, while chicken meat stands at Rp50,000 per kg, reflecting ongoing inflationary pressures in essential food commodities. Other key items include shallots at Rp60,000 per kg, garlic at Rp50,000 per kg, and various grades of rice ranging from Rp15,000 to Rp19,000 per kg, alongside beef prices up to Rp145,000 per kg for premium quality. This data underscores the challenges in maintaining food affordability amid potential supply disruptions, impacting household budgets and broader economic stability in Indonesia.

Khofifah: East Java Tops SNBP Admissions for Seven Consecutive Years

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa has celebrated the province's achievement of having the highest number of students accepted through the National Selection Based on Achievement (SNBP) for 2026, marking the seventh consecutive year since 2019. This success, with 29,046 students admitted out of 108,122 applicants nationwide, highlights the strong competitiveness of East Java's students and the effectiveness of educational quality improvements. Additionally, the province led in admissions via the Indonesia Smart Card for Higher Education (KIP-K) programme, promoting equitable access to higher education for underprivileged students.

GPS Made 'Erratic', Iran Uses Chinese-Made System Which is More Accurate

GPS signal disruptions have persisted in the Persian Gulf since the US-Israel-Iran war erupted on 28 February 2026, leading to unusual ship manoeuvres and widespread AIS spoofing by oil tankers to evade sanctions. This highlights the vulnerabilities of the US-made GPS system, with experts noting interference from regional states to protect infrastructure, while Iran reportedly accesses China's BeiDou system for greater precision in missile strikes. The incidents, reminiscent of electronic warfare in modern conflicts like Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, pose significant risks to public safety and navigation accuracy.

Baznas: Sacrifice of 3 TNI Soldiers Serves as Inspiration for Indonesia

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) of Indonesia has expressed profound condolences for the deaths of three TNI soldiers and injuries to five others during a peacekeeping mission with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on 29-30 March 2026. Baznas Chairman Sodik Mudjahid hailed their sacrifice as exemplary and honourable for the nation, vowing continued support for the Palestinian cause amid ongoing injustices, while providing aid to the bereaved families. Indonesia, alongside France, has urged the UN Security Council to thoroughly investigate the Israeli attack and take concrete actions against the escalating conflict in southern Lebanon.

Ministry of Culture Supports Energy Efficiency in the Workplace

The Ministry of Culture held a Reflection and Strengthening of the Ethos for Cultural Advancement event to follow up on President Prabowo Subianto's instructions for energy efficiency, emphasising the need for civil servants to adopt adaptive work practices amid global uncertainties. Minister Fadli Zon highlighted the importance of energy efficiency and collaboration with stakeholders to advance Indonesian culture sustainably. The event, attended by senior ministry officials, underscores the role of cultural policy in building a resilient and innovative ecosystem responsive to contemporary challenges.

RAJA Records Profit of Rp 594.5 Billion, Supported by Gas Business and Acquisition

PT Rukun Raharja Tbk (RAJA) reported a robust financial performance for the 2025 fiscal year, with revenue rising 5% to Rp 4.52 trillion and net profit increasing 20% to Rp 594.5 billion. This growth was driven by strengthened core gas operations and strategic acquisitions, notably the completion of the Hafar acquisition in August 2025, which contributed significantly through non-operating income. To sustain long-term expansion, RAJA has allocated Rp 3.39 trillion for capital expenditures on key projects like the Balikpapan-Samarinda fuel pipeline and LNG facilities, while pursuing further inorganic growth via its subsidiary RATU's acquisition of interests in the Madura Strait Block.

Iran's Foreign Minister's Message to Saudi Arabia: Now Is the Time to Expel US Troops

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has urged Saudi Arabia to expel US troops from its territory following Iran's recent missile strike on a US airbase in the kingdom, which injured 12 American personnel and damaged military assets. Araghchi emphasised respect for Saudi Arabia as a brother nation but criticised the US as an unreliable aggressor, sharing images of a destroyed US Boeing E-3 Sentry aircraft. This comes amid longstanding US-Saudi partnerships and provocative statements from US President Donald Trump boasting about Gulf states' involvement in conflicts against Iran.

NU Syuriah Leader: Guru Tua as Inspiration for Education and Da'wah in the Archipelago

Prof Zainal Abidin, Rais Syuriah of Nahdlatul Ulama, has praised the enduring legacy of Sayyid Idrus bin Salim Aljufri, known as Guru Tua, as a model for advancing Islamic education and da'wah across Indonesia. He highlighted Guru Tua's patient dedication in nurturing knowledgeable and ethical generations, his respect for local cultures integrated with Islamic teachings, and his promotion of interfaith tolerance, exemplified by appointing a non-Muslim mathematics teacher at Alkhairaat. This heritage continues to guide Abnaul Khairaat and future generations in fostering a tolerant, learned, and virtuous society.

ICWA Condemns Israeli Attack that Killed Three TNI Peacekeepers

The Indonesian Council on World Affairs (ICWA) has strongly condemned a series of Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon on 29 and 30 March 2026, which resulted in the deaths of three Indonesian TNI personnel serving with the UNIFIL peacekeeping force and severe injuries to three others. ICWA Executive Chairman Al Busyra Basnur described the attacks as barbaric and indicative of Israel's lack of intent for peace in the Middle East, while expressing deep condolences to the families and calling for a UN Security Council emergency meeting. The organisation supports the UN Secretary-General's call for a thorough investigation and adherence to international law amid escalating threats to peacekeepers.

BPJPH: Protecting Halal Product Guarantees is Crucial in Traditional Markets

The Head of the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH), Ahmad Haikal Hasan, has emphasised the vital role of traditional markets in ensuring halal product compliance to protect consumers. He urged market operators to adhere to halal certification obligations, clearly label non-halal products, and separate them to prevent cross-contamination, ahead of the mandatory halal certification enforcement in October 2026. BPJPH plans to enhance education, facilitation, and supervision to support businesses in implementing the Halal Product Assurance system effectively.

West Kalimantan Promotes Sustainable Green Economy Through Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration

The National Forestry Council hosted a national webinar focusing on multi-stakeholder collaboration for a green economy to support Indonesia's FOLU Net Sink 2030 target, using West Kalimantan as a case study. Governor Ria Norsan highlighted the province's vast forest areas and commitment to sustainable forest management to enhance carbon absorption, attract low-carbon investments, and improve community welfare. Participants, including government officials, business leaders, and academics, emphasised integrated strategies like preventing deforestation, carbon markets, and forestry downstreaming to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.

Subsidised Fuel Purchases Limited to 50 Litres Per Day: Full Regulations

The Indonesian government has introduced restrictions on subsidised fuel purchases, limiting private vehicles to 50 litres per day for Pertalite and subsidised diesel, in response to global oil supply disruptions from Middle East conflicts. Public transport and service vehicles face adjusted limits, with enforcement via the MyPertamina app and vehicle registration tracking, aiming to ensure targeted distribution and prevent excess subsidised usage. This policy, effective from 1 April 2026, replaces prior regulations to promote prudent consumption amid volatile energy prices.

KPK States Suspect in Hajj Quota Case is in Saudi Arabia

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that Asrul Azis Taba, a suspect in the alleged corruption case involving Hajj quotas, is currently located in Saudi Arabia, and the agency plans to coordinate with Saudi authorities to ensure the legal process proceeds smoothly. KPK remains optimistic that his location abroad will not hinder the investigation, citing prior communication with the suspect and expectations of his cooperation upon returning to Indonesia. The case already involves former Minister Yaqut and aide Isfan Abidal Aziz, with Asrul and another private sector figure implicated in arranging additional Hajj quotas and providing kickbacks to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Prabowo Arrives at Blue House, Greeted Directly by South Korean President

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto arrived at the Blue House in Seoul on Thursday (1/4/2026) and was personally welcomed by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, marking a significant diplomatic engagement between the two nations. The ceremonial reception included a handshake, embrace, honour guard in traditional attire, and the playing of both countries' national anthems, with Prabowo saluting respectfully. Accompanied by key Indonesian ministers including Foreign Minister Sugiono and Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto, the leaders introduced their delegations before proceeding to bilateral talks, underscoring strengthened ties in politics and economy.

Electricity Tariffs per kWh for 1-5 April 2026 for All PLN Customer Groups

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has decided to maintain electricity tariffs unchanged for the week of 1-5 April 2026, applying to all PLN customers based on the Q2-2026 rates. This decision, aimed at preserving public purchasing power ahead of Eid al-Fitr, follows an evaluation of macroeconomic indicators including the rupiah exchange rate, Indonesian Crude Price, inflation, and coal reference price. Tariffs will remain stable until June 2026 for both subsidised and non-subsidised customers, providing relief amid economic considerations.

4,536 Part-Time PPPK Officials Officially Receive Governor's Decrees in NTT

In Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT), 4,536 part-time Pegawai Pemerintah dengan Perjanjian Kerja (PPPK) have officially received their appointment decrees from Governor Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, marking their integration into the provincial civil service. The governor emphasised the need for civil servants who act as solutions to local issues with empathy and sincerity, rather than mere administrators, and confirmed budget allocations for their salaries. This hybrid ceremony, part of the 2025 budget implementation, underscores the provincial government's commitment to maximising PPPK appointments in phase one to enhance public service delivery.

Antam Gold Price Surges Rp 75,000 Today, Breaches Rp 2.9 Million Again

The price of Antam gold in Indonesia has risen by Rp 75,000 to Rp 2,902,000 per gram, driven by a global gold price surge that saw a 3.53% increase to US$4,681.27 per troy ounce on Tuesday. The buyback price also climbed by Rp 110,000 to Rp 2,587,000 per gram, aligning with international trends that mark the highest level since 18 March 2026 despite a monthly decline of 11.52% in March. This movement underscores the volatility in precious metals markets and their sensitivity to global economic factors.

TNI Sends Letter to LPSK Requesting Permission to Examine Andrie Yunus

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has formally requested permission from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) to examine Andrie Yunus, an activist from KontraS and a victim of an acid attack, as part of an ongoing military police investigation. This follows an initial failed attempt to question him due to health reasons, with TNI having elevated four BAIS members to suspect status in the case, who are now detained. The development underscores TNI's commitment to a swift and thorough probe into the incident, potentially advancing accountability for the attack on the human rights advocate.

Protecting Local Industry, Japan Puts the Brakes on EV Incentives for China

Japan's government has significantly reduced subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs) from Chinese manufacturers like BYD, slashing them to 150,000 yen from previous levels of 350,000-400,000 yen, to prioritise the use of local components such as batteries. This move benefits domestic producers like Toyota and Nissan, which receive up to 1.3 million yen in incentives, while Tesla and some European and Korean brands also qualify due to their use of Japanese batteries. The policy adjustment is expected to limit BYD's market penetration in Japan, where EV adoption remains low, highlighting Japan's efforts to shield its automotive sector from foreign competition.

RSCM Reveals Andrie Yunus's Condition After 20 Days of Treatment

RSCM has reported that Andrie Yunus, a Kontras activist attacked with acid by TNI intelligence members on 12 March 2026, shows stable psychological condition and improving physical wounds, including skin grafts on his face, neck, and arms, with further procedures planned. The four suspects from BAIS TNI have been detained on assault charges, though the military has yet to disclose the motive and is seeking to interview Yunus, whose activism often critiques military expansion into civilian spaces. This incident underscores tensions between human rights advocates and military intelligence in Indonesia.

Market Welcomes Prabowo's Measures to Mitigate War Impact, IHSG Rises 2%!

Indonesia's stock market surged as investors positively received President Prabowo Subianto's policies to counter the ripple effects of Middle East conflicts, with the Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) climbing nearly 2% to 7,186.66. Key measures include weekly work-from-home for civil servants, fuel savings, budget refocusing, and adjustments to the free nutritious meals programme, aimed at mitigating global energy price volatility. While banking stocks led the gains and regional markets also rebounded, concerns persist over ongoing geopolitical tensions and energy supply stability.

Prabowo Welcomed by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the Blue House

President Prabowo Subianto was warmly received by South Korean President Lee Jae Myung at the Blue House in Seoul, marking the start of his state visit with a formal welcome ceremony including handshakes, national anthems, and a military inspection. Prabowo introduced key Indonesian ministers, such as Foreign Minister Sugiono, Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto, and Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia, highlighting potential areas for bilateral cooperation. The visit is expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between Indonesia and South Korea, fostering broader mutual benefits in various sectors.

Jumbo Transaction! Siloam Acquires Hospital Assets Worth Rp9 Trillion

PT Siloam International Hospitals Tbk (SILO) has announced a major acquisition of hospital property assets valued at approximately Rp9 trillion from entities affiliated with Singapore-based First Real Estate Investment Trust (First REIT). The deal, structured in two phases, will enhance SILO's direct control over its portfolio of hospitals across various Indonesian locations, funded through syndicated credit facilities. This strategic move aligns with the company's expansion plans and is expected to positively impact performance without materially affecting short-term cash flow, subject to shareholder approval.

Iran Threatens to Attack US Technology Companies in the Middle East

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a stark warning to target at least 18 major US technology firms, including Apple, Microsoft, and Google, operating in the Middle East, accusing them of aiding US military operations. The IRGC plans to launch attacks on these companies' facilities starting Wednesday evening at 8:00 PM Tehran time, urging employees and nearby residents to evacuate for safety. This escalation raises significant concerns about the vulnerability of tech infrastructure in the region, potentially derailing the Middle East's ambitions to become a global AI hub amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

KPK Probes Blueray Cargo Branches in Counterfeit Goods Case at Customs

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the branches of PT Blueray Cargo, a freight forwarding company implicated in a bribery and gratification scandal involving the importation of counterfeit goods through the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo stated that witnesses from the company, initialled SP and EWW, were scheduled for examination on 31 March 2026 to determine if corrupt practices in Jakarta are replicated elsewhere, though they failed to appear, prompting rescheduling. This probe follows a 4 February 2026 sting operation that led to the arrest and charging of several officials and Blueray Cargo executives, with further developments including the seizure of Rp5.19 billion suspected to be from customs-related corruption.

Pramono Follows Central Government's Decision, DKI Civil Servants to WFH Every Friday

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has decided to implement a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Friday, aligning with the central government's directive to reduce traffic congestion and promote public transportation use. Governor Pramono Anung emphasised that this measure will not disrupt essential public services, such as healthcare, social assistance, and education, which will continue operating normally from offices or field locations. To ensure effectiveness, the policy includes bans on private vehicle use during WFH days and oversight mechanisms by the regional personnel agency to prevent misuse.

Three TNI Personnel Fall in Lebanon, Indonesia Condemns Israeli Attack and Demands UN Action

Indonesia has strongly condemned an Israeli attack in southern Lebanon that killed three Indonesian UNIFIL peacekeepers and injured five others, demanding an international investigation and accountability for those responsible. In a statement to the UN Security Council, Ambassador Umar Hadi expressed profound grief, honoured the fallen soldiers by name, and urged the swift and dignified repatriation of their remains alongside comprehensive medical care for the wounded. The incident underscores escalating tensions driven by Israeli actions, which Indonesia views as deliberate violations of international law and threats to global peace, calling for immediate UN measures to protect peacekeeping personnel and halt further aggression.