The Chairman of Indonesia's Regional Representative Council (DPD), Sultan Najamudin, has been awarded an honorary doctorate in International Relations by Korea Maritime and Ocean University (KMOU) in Busan, South Korea, marking him as the second Indonesian national to receive this honour after former President Megawati Soekarnoputri. Sultan emphasised that the accolade serves as a pivotal moment to strengthen bilateral ties between Indonesia and South Korea, particularly in advancing regional development, maritime sectors, island communities, and coastal populations. The ceremony, attended by his wife, DPD officials, and Indonesian embassy representatives, underscores KMOU's commitment to international collaboration and recognises Sultan's contributions to democratic institutions and balanced regional growth.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a search at the home of West Java DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono in Bandung on Wednesday, as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged bribery and gratifications involving Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara. The raid, witnessed by the local RT chairman, aims to uncover evidence of funds allegedly received by Ono from businessman Sarjan, a defendant in the case. Ono's lawyer has raised concerns over procedural irregularities, including the investigators' request to disable CCTV cameras and the absence of a proper search warrant, though no evidence was reportedly found during the operation.

A landslide on the Maswati-Sasaksaat railway route in West Bandung Regency disrupted train services, causing delays and a derailment of the KA Ciremai train, with all passengers confirmed safe. PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) has redirected affected passengers to buses and the Whoosh high-speed train, while providing refreshments, meals, and options for ticket cancellations. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining reliable rail infrastructure amid adverse weather conditions in Indonesia.

PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) has channelled Rp289 billion in corporate and employee zakat to the National Zakat Agency (Baznas) for 2025, marking a 7.77% year-on-year increase and contributing to a cumulative total of Rp1.07 trillion since its establishment in 2021. This zakat supports over 1.2 million beneficiaries through more than 40 programmes in economic empowerment, education, health, humanitarian aid, and advocacy, reinforcing BSI's role in strengthening community welfare and inclusive Islamic finance. Looking ahead, BSI aims to expand its social impact via digital platforms like the BYOND by BSI superapp, which facilitates ZISWAF (zakat, infak, sadaqah, and wakaf) collections that reached Rp236 billion in 2025 with 10.5 million transactions.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Bima Arya Sugiarto has emphasised the government's commitment to enhancing bureaucratic efficiency and accelerating reforms in Regional-Owned Enterprises (BUMD) to achieve more accountable and adaptive governance. Highlighting data from the Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) that reveals a majority of BUMD in sectors like water services and miscellaneous businesses as unhealthy or underperforming, Bima stressed their untapped potential despite substantial assets. In response, the government and Commission II of the DPR RI are preparing a draft BUMD Law to separate financial and public service KPIs, clarify regional government roles, and improve asset management flexibility, ultimately strengthening local financial accountability.

Indonesia's Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, highlighted the crucial role of village women in local economic development and family food security, exemplified by the Maju Berkah Women's Farmer Group (KWT). Through utilising home yards for gardening, these women reduce household expenses and improve food intake quality, while gaining skills in production and business management. The Acting Regent of Cilacap, Ammy Amalia Fatma Surya, supports the initiative as a model for integrated agriculture and fisheries-based women's empowerment in other villages.

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) is conducting an assessment of at least 12 individuals believed to be facing threats in connection with the handling of the violence case against KontraS activist Andrie Yunus. This initiative aims to protect witnesses, supporters, and advocates involved in uncovering the case, with threats primarily occurring in digital spaces such as social media. Komnas HAM is mapping threat patterns and profiling potential connections to ensure adequate protection, allowing legal enforcement to proceed without intimidation.

The Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) provincial government is preparing to implement a work-from-home (WFH) policy for civil servants (ASN) starting after Easter 2026, in line with the central government's directive. The central government has mandated WFH for one day per week, specifically every Friday from 1 April 2026, in response to the impacts of the war in the Middle East, alongside restrictions on official vehicle use and promotion of public transport. NTT will follow this national policy, with implementation delayed until the following week due to the Good Friday holiday.

Yusharto Huntoyungo, Head of the Domestic Policy Strategy Agency (BSKDN) under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has urged local governments to become more responsive in addressing the dynamic challenges of unemployment influenced by global economic shifts, labour market changes, and technological advancements. He emphasised that unemployment extends beyond statistical figures to directly impact societal welfare, requiring swift, precise, and field-based policy responses, with local authorities playing a pivotal role in tailoring solutions to regional characteristics and fostering innovations in job creation and human resource development. Yusharto also stressed the importance of data-driven approaches, cross-sector collaborations involving education, business, and communities, and outcome-oriented policies to ensure tangible benefits for the public.

Wings Air has discontinued its Bandung to Yogyakarta flight route, operated from Husein Sastranegara Airport, owing to a significant drop in passengers, influenced by improved toll road networks reducing demand for short-haul flights. Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan highlighted that interest in propeller-plane services for nearby destinations has waned even before Kertajati Airport's activation, affecting routes to cities like Semarang, Solo, and Yogyakarta. The city government is urging the central authorities to reinstate permits for larger aircraft on inter-island routes, such as to Bali and Surabaya, to bolster connectivity.

Indonesia's trade balance recorded a surplus for the 70th consecutive month in early 2026, reaching a cumulative US$2.23 billion from January to February, driven primarily by strong performance in the processing industry amid weakening raw commodity exports. The Head of Statistics Indonesia highlighted that processed industry exports grew by 6.69% year-on-year to US$37.06 billion, underscoring the success of the downstreaming strategy in maintaining trade equilibrium. Key markets like China, India, and emerging destinations such as the United States and the United Arab Emirates have boosted demand for value-added products like palm oil derivatives, supported by free trade agreements.

PT KAI Daerah Operasi 6 Yogyakarta has urged train passengers to arrive early at stations, particularly Yogyakarta Station, to avoid disruptions from traffic diversions during the 80th anniversary parade of Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X on 2 April 2026. The event, involving over 13,000 participants from 438 villages across DIY, will close major roads around Malioboro from 06:00 to 12:00 WIB, but train operations will proceed normally. Detailed traffic management and parking arrangements have been implemented to ensure smooth mobility for participants and the public.

Indonesia's Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency, Nusron Wahid, has identified UIN Datokarama Palu as a key strategic partner to assist in identifying and certifying uncertified land, particularly waqf lands, to ensure legal certainty and prevent future disputes. This collaboration with the Islamic State University aims to accelerate the Complete Systematic Land Registration (PTSL) programme, involving students in community service to protect vulnerable lands from exploitation. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to enhancing legal protections for land ownership, especially for religious sites and impoverished communities, thereby promoting social welfare.

Aziz Anugerah Yudha Prawira has formally requested the eviction of a house currently occupied by Putri Zulkifli Hasan, daughter of the Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan, following a Supreme Court ruling that confirmed a land dispute case. The dispute originated from a Rp5.5 billion loan secured by the property's certificate, which was allegedly manipulated into a sale deed without the owner's knowledge, leading to ownership transfer to Putri and estimated losses of tens of billions for the claimant. Despite attempts at voluntary negotiation, the execution application has been lodged with the Jakarta Timur District Court, underscoring the importance of legal compliance among public figures.

Following the death of three Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) personnel in an Israeli attack in Lebanon, the Aqsa Working Group (AWG) has urged the Indonesian government to take firm and measured actions to defend national honour and sovereignty, rather than issuing mere condemnations. AWG expressed deep condolences for the fallen peacekeepers serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and praised their dedication to global humanitarian missions. This call highlights Indonesia's commitment to international stability amid escalating regional tensions.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has declared the start of a new era in the strategic partnership between Indonesia and South Korea, elevating it to a comprehensive level to bolster cooperation across various sectors including defence, economy, innovation, and culture. During a state banquet with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Lee highlighted successful joint projects such as fighter jet development and expressed optimism for future collaborations in maritime and artificial intelligence, underpinned by shared priorities on public welfare. This enhancement is expected to foster stronger investment ties, particularly through Indonesia's Danantara sovereign fund, promising mutual benefits and deeper bilateral relations.

In the wake of Earth Hour, PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) is reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability by integrating energy-efficient practices into daily operations, such as adopting LED lighting, optimising office facilities, and promoting habits like unplugging electronics. The bank is advancing green initiatives, including the installation of solar panels in 152 work units and operating 926 eco-friendly vehicles by the end of 2025, which have already reduced operational emissions by 9.6% compared to 2022 levels. These efforts underscore BRI's strategic focus on responsible business practices that contribute to lower emissions and foster an environmentally conscious workplace culture.

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I has vehemently criticised Israel's parliament for passing a law imposing the death penalty specifically on Palestinian detainees proven to have killed Israeli citizens, deeming it a violation of international law due to its discriminatory nature. Deputy Chairman Anton Sukartono Suratto highlighted concerns over equality before the law and ethnic discrimination, urging the Indonesian government to address the issue firmly in bilateral and multilateral forums. As the current Chair of the UN Human Rights Council, Indonesia bears a heightened moral and political responsibility to advocate against such policies that exacerbate humanitarian crises and hinder peaceful resolutions in the conflict zone.

Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng visited several ulama on 1 April 2026 to strengthen ties with religious leaders and seek their support for the 31st National Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur’an (MTQ), scheduled for September 2026, which is expected to attract around 11,000 participants. The event is anticipated to boost the local economy, particularly in hospitality, culinary, and transportation sectors, while the mayor emphasised the need for religious guidance to align the preparations with Islamic values. This initiative underscores the city's commitment to collaboration with religious figures to ensure a successful national event that enhances community welfare.

PT IPC Terminal Peti Kemas, through its Pusat Pembinaan Dakwah Islam (PPDI), has channelled employee zakat funds to Adara Relief International to support orphans in Gaza amid the escalating humanitarian crisis in Palestine. This initiative, handed over by company executives, aims to bring joy and hope to affected Muslim families while alleviating their suffering. Additionally, PPDI organised a Muslimah study session themed on the resilience of Gaza's women as part of Adara's Ramadan collaboration programme to strengthen participants' faith and solidarity.

Minister of Immigration and Community Integration (Imipas) Agus Andrianto has inaugurated Hendarsam Marantoko as the new Director General of Immigration, replacing acting official Yuldi Yusman, and appointed Iwan Santoso as Special Staff for Public Services and Legal Reform. During the ceremony, Agus emphasised the importance of professionalism, ethical conduct, and viewing roles as opportunities for meaningful impact, urging the ministry to embrace new approaches amid global changes. He also praised Yuldi Yusman's contributions and stressed the need for internal solidarity and cross-functional collaboration within the ministry.

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) is confident that the banking sector can withstand the spillover effects of the Middle East conflict, citing a robust capital adequacy ratio (CAR) of 25-27%, well above international standards. OJK Executive Head of Banking Supervision Dian Ediana Rae highlighted the sector's resilience from past crises like COVID-19 and ongoing stress tests to monitor risks, while noting that projections for net interest margins remain uncertain amid economic fluctuations. The National Banks Association (Perbanas) has reinforced prudential measures, including enhanced risk management and early warning systems, to maintain credit growth and liquidity.

Indonesia's ministry has initiated a coordination meeting with 15 ministries and agencies to draft an action plan addressing the annual influx of 16,000 new residents to Jakarta due to rural-to-urban migration. Officials highlighted risks such as overpopulation, traffic congestion, declining public welfare, and rising crime if not managed properly, while emphasising the need for integrated policies across sectors like education, healthcare, and housing. The plan aims to enhance national-level coordination, utilising indicators like the net migration rate to support regional governments in better managing urbanisation trends and harnessing demographic opportunities.

A UN diplomat, Mohamad Safa, has resigned in protest, alleging that senior UN figures are preparing scenarios for nuclear weapon use against Iran amid escalating tensions. He highlighted the humanitarian catastrophe that would affect Tehran's 10 million residents and drew parallels to bombing major Western cities, while WHO and former IAEA chief Mohamed ElBaradei have voiced similar dire warnings about intergenerational consequences. In response, Iranian politicians are debating withdrawal from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, underscoring the precarious international standoff involving the US, Israel, and Iran.

Amid global disruptions from the Iran-involved war affecting Qatar's gas operations, helium prices have surged, threatening the worldwide chip supply chain. South Korea, home to major chipmakers like Samsung and SK Hynix, reports sufficient helium reserves until mid-year and controlled supplies for the next 4-6 months, allowing it to remain relatively insulated. However, companies are proactively securing stocks at higher costs from the US, while broader uncertainties in energy and industrial materials like bromine persist, prompting searches for alternative energy sources.

Prince Salman bin Sultan, the Emir of Madinah, has reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's deep-rooted commitment to serving Hajj and Umrah pilgrims and visitors, a duty embedded in the kingdom's foundation since its unification by King Abdul Aziz. Speaking at the inauguration of the third Umrah and Ziyarah Forum in Madinah, he emphasised that this service is an authentic approach utilising all national capabilities to maintain the Two Holy Mosques and provide optimal experiences. The event, organised by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in collaboration with the Pilgrim Experience Programme, highlights the spiritual and civilisational significance of pilgrimage journeys originating from the Holy Land.

The General Chairman of Muhammadiyah's Central Leadership, Prof. Dr. Haedar Nashir, strongly condemned the ongoing violence and genocide by Zionist Israel in Gaza, Palestine, and the killing of Indonesian UN peacekeepers in Lebanon during the Idulfitri Fellowship event at Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta. He highlighted the failure of modern civilisation and international law, while reaffirming Muhammadiyah's commitment to humanitarian and moral roles in upholding civilisational dignity and national values based on Pancasila. The event, attended by national figures, also emphasised strengthening brotherhood among cadres and advancing education at UMJ amid global challenges.

President Prabowo Subianto witnessed the exchange of 10 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between Indonesia and South Korea during a state visit at the Blue House in Seoul, covering key sectors such as economy, energy, digital technology, health, and future industries. These agreements include initiatives like comprehensive strategic dialogues, economic cooperation 2.0, critical minerals partnerships, AI in basic healthcare, clean energy, carbon capture and storage, and financial collaboration between Danantara and Exim Bank of Korea. The pacts underscore a new strategic direction in bilateral relations, aiming to drive inclusive economic growth, enhance industrial resilience, and accelerate transformation towards a technology- and clean energy-based economy amid global challenges.

Petrokimia Gresik, a subsidiary of Pupuk Indonesia, is bolstering its strategies to secure sulfur supplies amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that could disrupt global prices and availability. With Indonesia importing over 75% of its sulfur needs from the region and domestic demand reaching 19 million tonnes of sulphuric acid annually, the company is diversifying sources, securing long-term contracts, and optimising domestic production to support national food security and industrial self-reliance. This initiative underscores Indonesia's growing role as a global sulfur demand hub, driven by mineral downstreaming policies and the expansion of nickel battery supply chains for electric vehicles.

PT Mitra Pinasthika Mustika Tbk (MPMX) reported consolidated revenue of Rp16.2 trillion and net profit of Rp462 billion for the 2025 fiscal year, marking a slight 1% decline in revenue and a 19% drop in net profit compared to the previous year. The downturn reflects macroeconomic pressures such as weakened purchasing power, high interest rates, and slowing domestic consumption, which impacted segments like two-wheeled vehicle distribution and consumer financing, though insurance and aftermarket services showed positive growth. MPMX is focusing on operational efficiency, strategic evaluation, and dividend consistency to ensure long-term sustainability in a challenging environment.

Jakarta's Polda Metro Jaya has transferred the investigation of the acid attack on Andrie Yunus, Deputy Coordinator of KontraS, to the TNI's Central Military Police (Puspom) due to the involvement of military personnel. Four soldiers from TNI's Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS) have been detained in connection with the incident, which occurred after Yunus recorded a podcast in central Jakarta, leading to severe injuries requiring hospitalisation. This handover underscores jurisdictional shifts in cases implicating military members, with police open to re-involvement if civilian suspects emerge.

A video of a group allegedly roasting and feasting on dog meat in Nusa Penida, Klungkung, has gone viral on social media, sparking widespread anger among animal lovers in Bali. Influencer @adenesta_ urged authorities to act and tagged DPD RI member Niluh Djelantik, who responded by calling on Bali police to investigate and apprehend the suspects while urging village heads to tighten oversight of foreigners in the province. Nusa Penida police chief confirmed they are swiftly probing the incident based on the social media footage and will issue an official update soon.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has invited Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to collaborate in the shipbuilding industry during a state lunch in Seoul, aiming to elevate bilateral relations to the highest level. The leaders agreed to strengthen comprehensive cooperation in security, defence, economy, innovation, culture, and creativity, while appreciating Indonesia's support for South Korean firms in achieving the Golden Indonesia vision. Additionally, they highlighted ongoing successes like the joint KF-21 Boramae fighter jet project and potential synergies in big data, AI, and strategic investments through the Danantara Fund.

A new international remote robotics centre at West China Hospital in Chengdu has enabled successful remote surgeries for patients in Poland and Brazil, highlighting China's advancements in surgical robotics and reducing costs for patients by up to 80 percent. Exports of Chinese surgical robots surged 368.1 percent year-on-year in 2025, driven by the Belt and Road Initiative, with total medical equipment exports reaching $45.8 billion, marking a shift from cost-based to technology-driven competitiveness. The centre's expansion, including plans for a facility in Egypt, underscores growing global adoption and collaborative innovation in precision medicine.

Public policy expert Sugiyanto assesses that PAM Jaya, Jakarta's water utility, is well-equipped to supply the city's water needs during the extreme dry season predicted for April 2026, thanks to robust infrastructure and diverse raw water sources primarily from the Jatiluhur Reservoir. He highlights the company's network of water treatment installations and ongoing expansions, alongside anticipatory measures like weather modification to maintain reservoir levels, while advocating for stricter groundwater regulations and innovative technologies such as desalination and atmospheric water harvesting to enhance water resilience. This evaluation underscores the critical role of intergovernmental cooperation and technological innovation in safeguarding urban water security amid climate challenges.

The National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN) has emphasised the necessity for more inclusive urban planning to manage the influx of urbanisation from rural to urban areas following the Eid al-Fitr homecoming migration. This comes in response to President Prabowo Subianto's visit to the railway tracksides in Senen, Central Jakarta, where low-income residents have built homes in high-risk areas due to proximity to economic centres. BKKBN is coordinating with 15 ministries to develop action plans addressing housing, public services, and regional development to mitigate risks like overcrowding, traffic congestion, and declining welfare.

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has strongly condemned Israel's new law imposing the death penalty as the default punishment for Palestinians in the occupied West Bank convicted of lethal attacks against Israelis, describing it as a grave violation of international human rights and humanitarian laws, including the Fourth Geneva Convention and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The government urged Israel to revoke the legislation immediately, protect Palestinian rights, and called on the international community, particularly the United Nations, to ensure accountability. This stance underscores Indonesia's ongoing support for Palestinian independence with East Jerusalem as its capital, amid reports of over 9,300 Palestinians, including children and women, facing harsh conditions in Israeli jails.

A landslide on the railway track between Maswati and Sasaksaat in West Bandung Regency has caused the cancellation of several trains on the Jakarta-Bandung route, including the KA Parahyangan number 139, while others face delays. The incident, triggered by heavy rain, led to the derailment of the KA Ciremai train after it collided with landslide debris, though no casualties were reported. PT KAI has arranged alternative transport for affected passengers and offers ticket cancellations, highlighting ongoing challenges to Indonesia's rail infrastructure from natural disasters.

President Joko Widodo expressed deep respect for Iran's determination to uphold its national sovereignty during a meeting with the Iranian Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, at his home in Surakarta. The discussions covered regional dynamics, including recent humanitarian and security impacts from attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel on 28 February, which affected the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and thousands of civilians. Jokowi conveyed sympathies to the Iranian people and hoped for a swift return to peace and stability, while the ambassador detailed the assaults on civilian areas, vital infrastructure, and economic facilities, prompting Iran's retaliatory strikes against Israel and US assets in Gulf countries.

South Tangerang Mayor Benyamin Davnie has called on village heads to foster community spirit of gotong royong to uphold environmental cleanliness, particularly in managing post-holiday waste accumulation. He also emphasised the need for efficient budget absorption in physical realisations for 2026, adherence to central government directives, and cost-saving measures in non-physical expenditures such as utilities and official travel by shifting to online modes. These steps aim to anticipate potential reductions in central funding transfers while ensuring no cuts to PPPK personnel and prioritising fiscal efficiency over impacts on sectors like hotel tax revenues.

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has called on stock exchange members to rigorously select and vet candidates for the Board of Directors of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), emphasising competence, capacity, and integrity before nomination. This directive aligns with POJK No. 58/2016, requiring members to conduct thorough due diligence as shareholders. Nominations must be submitted by 4 May 2026, with OJK performing fit and proper tests prior to approval at the shareholders' meeting, ensuring robust governance in Indonesia's capital markets.

China's economy maintained stable performance in the first quarter of 2026, with the high-tech industry experiencing robust revenue growth of 14.6% year-on-year, driven by innovations in artificial intelligence, integrated circuits, and computing power. The high-tech manufacturing and services sectors saw increases of 12.7% and 15.8% respectively, while overall manufacturing grew by 5.4%. Additionally, the green transition accelerated, with ecological protection industries up 9.6% and clean energy power generation contributing 36.3% to total electricity sales revenue, highlighting China's momentum in technological and sustainable development.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has declared that trust in the United States stands at zero, dismissing any possibility of fruitful negotiations with Washington due to a perceived lack of honesty. He emphasised that no direct talks are underway, with any recent contacts limited to mediators, and Iran has neither responded to nor proposed any nuclear deal terms. This stance comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, including Iran's missile strikes on Israel and reports of US military preparations, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic impasse between the two nations.

Former Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan visited the residence of former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in Puri Cikeas during the Eid al-Fitr halalbihalal event, marking the first meeting since the fallout from the 2024 presidential election where Anies opted to run with PKB's Muhaimin Iskandar instead of the coalition including Demokrat, PKS, and NasDem. Demokrat's senior official Syarief Hasan described the encounter as purely a gesture of reconciliation and silaturahmi, emphasising introspection without assigning blame, though he stressed firm boundaries on any future political alliances. Speculation arises on whether this could signal a new axis for the 2029 presidential race, but Syarief dismissed the likelihood of rekindling ties easily.

The head of the NTB MBG Task Force, Fathul Gani, has urged a comprehensive review of the police report against two women from Central Lombok who shared a video of maggots in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) bread, emphasising the need for public oversight without generalisation of isolated incidents. He stressed that while the programme's menu quality must be monitored, viral complaints should not disrupt food stocks or unfairly tarnish the initiative, and plans to convene meetings with relevant departments to ensure supply stability. The women, summoned under defamation and ITE Law suspicions, maintain their social media posts did not name any specific entities, highlighting concerns over potential criminalisation of public feedback on a key government nutrition programme.

The National Internal Policy Strategy Agency (BSKDN) under the Ministry of Home Affairs hosted a presentation event for regional heads to appreciate local government performance in lowering unemployment rates. Head of BSKDN, Yusharto Huntoyungo, emphasised that the evaluation focuses not only on numerical achievements but also on policy quality, innovations, and real societal impacts, aiming to foster result-oriented governance. The initiative promotes cross-sector collaboration, data-driven policies, and the sharing of best practices among regions to address unemployment as a key priority for economic stability and social welfare.

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa welcomed a delegation led by the Indonesian Ambassador to Australia and Australian business representatives to strengthen bilateral ties, particularly in the leather industry. The visit aims to secure halal-certified raw material supplies from Australia, facilitate technology transfers, and boost investments to address challenges like raw material shortages and export standards in East Java's key leather production hubs such as Sidoarjo, Magetan, and Pasuruan. This collaboration is expected to enhance the region's trade balance, productivity, and position as a strategic logistics gateway, fostering mutually beneficial economic synergies between Indonesia and Australia.

Xiaomi has recruited Kong Yanshuang, the former General Manager of Tesla China, to spearhead its automotive sales initiatives, taking over from current Xiaomi Auto Director Li Xiaorui as of early March. Kong, who played a pivotal role in expanding Tesla's sales network, brand promotion, and service infrastructure across China during her tenure from 2022 to 2024, brings extensive expertise in the electric vehicle market. This leadership transition coincides with Xiaomi's recent launch of its new SU7 electric vehicle model, signalling the company's aggressive push into the competitive EV sector.

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) under the Ministry of Finance has recorded 10.5 million annual income tax (PPh) returns for the 2025 tax year as of 31 March 2026, comprising reports from individual employees, non-employees, corporate taxpayers in rupiah and US dollars, and other categories. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has extended the deadline for individual taxpayers to file and pay until 30 April 2026, waiving administrative penalties such as fines and interest during this relaxation period. This measure aims to encourage compliance and ease the tax reporting process for millions of individual taxpayers.

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA) is coordinating with Bandung police to monitor the legal proceedings following the death of a 17-year-old student in a clash between students in Bandung, West Java. The case remains under investigation, with potential violations of child protection laws if assault is confirmed, and authorities emphasise adherence to juvenile justice principles if the perpetrator is a minor. This incident highlights ongoing efforts to safeguard children in violent situations and ensure restorative justice approaches.