Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 1 April 2026

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Progress of Andrie Yunus Acid Attack Case at TNI's Puspom Reaches 80 Percent

The investigation into the acid attack on KontraS Vice Coordinator Andrie Yunus by TNI's Central Military Police (Puspom) has progressed to 80 percent, with four suspects already charged under Articles 469 and 467 of the Criminal Code. Komnas HAM has urged Puspom to enhance transparency by publicly disclosing the perpetrators' identities and involving external oversight, while granting access to interview the suspects. This case highlights ongoing efforts to ensure accountability in military-related crimes, with Komnas HAM questioning seven TNI officials, including high-ranking officers, on Wednesday.

Acquitted, Amsal Sitepu Calls It Justice for Creative Workers

Videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu has been acquitted by the Medan Corruption Court of charges related to mark-up in a village profile video project in North Sumatra's Karo Regency. Sitepu hailed the verdict as a significant moment of justice not only for himself but for all creative workers, emphasising its importance in sustaining the creative industry. The case drew attention from President Prabowo Subianto and the House of Representatives' Commission III, highlighting broader implications for protections in Indonesia's burgeoning creative economy.

Lestari Moerdijat: Appropriate Mitigation of Potential Energy Crisis Essential to Protect the Public

In a virtual discussion on global energy challenges following the US-Israel-Iran conflict, Deputy Speaker of the MPR Lestari Moerdijat stressed the need for realistic policies to mitigate energy crisis impacts amid worsening global economic conditions, emphasising diversification from fossil fuels to achieve national energy independence. Experts highlighted Indonesia's vulnerability as a net importer of fuel, with proposals including enhanced exploration, a petroleum fund, efficiency measures like work-from-home and electric vehicle transitions, and accelerating renewable energy adoption targeting 16-20% by this year. The discourse underscores the urgency of building buffer stocks and long-term strategies to buffer against supply disruptions and price volatility in the Middle East-dominated oil market.

The Trail of the World's First Toll Road, from Wooden Gates to Modern Motorways

The history of toll roads traces back to ancient civilisations like the Roman Empire, where fees were collected for using trade routes and bridges to maintain infrastructure. In 1663, the UK Parliament established turnpike trusts, pioneering a structured public-private partnership model that financed road improvements through user fees, significantly enhancing transport networks in England and Wales by the 18th and 19th centuries. This system laid the groundwork for modern toll roads, demonstrating the effectiveness of user-based funding in driving infrastructure development and economic growth.

Energy Crisis Becomes More Apparent, Asian Countries Return to Coal

Amid disruptions in gas supplies from the Middle East due to conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran, several Asian nations including South Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, India, and Bangladesh are ramping up coal usage to maintain stable electricity supplies. This shift has raised alarms among climate experts, who warn that it could hinder the transition to clean energy and exacerbate environmental damage, while calling for accelerated investments in renewables. The crisis, triggered by the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on Qatar's LNG facilities, is expected to cause long-term shortages and price spikes in the global energy market.

Ministry of Health: 102 Districts/Cities Intervene in Measles Cases via ORI Immunisation Chase

The Indonesian Ministry of Health reports that 102 districts and cities are addressing measles outbreaks through Outbreak Response Immunization (ORI) or catch-up vaccination campaigns, with 33 specifically implementing ORI and 10 of those under close monitoring due to high case numbers in areas like Pandeglang, Serang, and South Tangerang. These efforts align with the Immunization Agenda 2030, focusing on reducing preventable deaths, ensuring vaccine access, and integrating immunization into primary healthcare, while emphasizing multi-stakeholder collaboration for measles elimination by 2030. Despite a 93% drop in suspected and confirmed cases by week 12 of 2026, surveillance remains stringent, and circulars have been issued to protect healthcare workers with planned vaccinations.

Jakarta MRT and WRI Indonesia Strengthen Transportation Emission Calculations

PT MRT Jakarta and WRI Indonesia have signed a one-year collaboration to develop methodologies for calculating emission reductions in transportation, focusing on operational shifts and carbon footprint inventories. This initiative aligns with MRT Jakarta's sustainability roadmap and enhances credible measurement, reporting, and verification processes, while supporting national climate registries and carbon economic value development. With transportation accounting for 54% of Jakarta's greenhouse gas emissions, the partnership underscores the vital role of integrated public transport in urban decarbonisation efforts, backed by the UK government.

WFH Policy Should Not Reduce Employee Performance

The Indonesian government is set to implement a work-from-home (WFH) policy for one day per week to conserve fuel amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, but officials in South Kalimantan warn that it must not compromise employee productivity or public services. Local leaders emphasise the need for proportional application, particularly for essential sectors, while highlighting the importance of regional innovations to sustain development under budget constraints. This measure aims to significantly reduce fuel consumption without disrupting governance efficiency.

Death of TNI Soldiers in Lebanon Urged to Be Brought to International Court

Indonesian humanitarian group MER-C and Muslim Lawyers Team (TPM) have strongly condemned the killing of three TNI peacekeepers in a UN mission in Lebanon, labelling the attacks as war crimes and calling on the government to escalate the matter to the International Court of Justice and International Criminal Court. The incidents involved Israeli military actions near UNIFIL bases, highlighting violations of international law including the Rome Statute and Geneva Conventions, amid ongoing escalations between Israel and Hezbollah. Challenges in repatriating the bodies underscore the need for enhanced UN and Indonesian diplomatic efforts, while MER-C prepares a medical aid mission to the conflict zone.

No Need for Long Queues: BPJS Ketenagakerjaan Claims Can Be Made via Online Queue

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan is enhancing its digital services with an online queue feature for the Lapak Asik platform, launching on 1 April 2026, allowing participants to schedule claims via video call or in-person visits without lengthy waits. This innovation enables anytime, anywhere registration through smartphones, providing estimated service times and aiming to make social security services faster, more efficient, and accessible across Indonesia. The update underscores the organisation's commitment to modernising worker protection programmes like Jaminan Hari Tua and Jaminan Kematian, promoting self-service digital channels for greater transparency and equity.

Lebak Regent Visits Deputy Regent's Home, Conflict Deemed Resolved

Lebak Regent Hasbi Jayabaya visited Deputy Regent Amir Hamzah's home to mend a rift sparked by Hasbi's controversial remarks about Amir's past corruption conviction during a recent halal bihalal event. Hasbi apologised, praised Amir as a senior and elder, and pledged improved communication to prevent future discord, emphasising their commitment to serving Lebak's residents. The incident drew national attention, prompting intervention from Banten Governor Andra Soni and the PDIP party, highlighting tensions in local governance.

KPK Searches Ono Surono's Home Over Suspected Funds from Suspect in Ade Kuswara Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a search at the home of PDIP politician Ono Surono in Bandung as part of its investigation into a bribery case involving advance payments for a project in Bekasi Regency, suspecting that Ono received funds from private suspect Sarjan. The search aims to gather evidence and confirm details to strengthen the case against former Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang and two others, who are accused of receiving Rp 9.5 billion in illicit payments for a 2026 project. This development underscores the KPK's ongoing efforts to uncover networks of corruption in local government procurement processes.

Several Insurance Companies Collectively Submit Financial Reports, What's Going On?

Several Indonesian insurance companies have delayed submitting their 2025 financial reports by the 31 March 2026 deadline due to challenges in implementing the new PSAK 117 accounting standard, prompting the Financial Services Authority (OJK) to consider extending the reporting period. OJK's Executive Head of Insurance, Guarantee, and Pension Fund Supervision, Ogi Prastomiyono, stated that forcing unprepared submissions would be counterproductive, with the extension likely to run until April to June 2026 for the fourth-quarter 2025 reports only. This regulatory flexibility aims to ensure accurate financial reporting amid industry adaptation struggles, though exact numbers of affected firms remain unverified.

Central government improves governance of RSUD in Papua

The central government, in collaboration with Papua province and Jayapura regency authorities, has agreed on concrete steps to enhance healthcare service governance at RSUD Yowari hospital in Papua, addressing critical issues such as patient delays, sanitation problems, and poor referral coordination. Key initiatives include evaluations by RSUP Dr. Sardjito, development of management guidelines, potential medical equipment aid and training, and resolutions for land certification to support infrastructure expansion. This multi-sectoral effort, involving ministries, security forces, and local leaders, underscores a commitment to improving healthcare access and quality in the region, with ongoing oversight from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

KPK Searches Ono Surono's Home, Here's the Background of the Case

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted a search of the home of West Java DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono in Bandung on Wednesday as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption involving former Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang. The probe stems from a December 2025 sting operation that resulted in the arrest of ten individuals, with Ade Kuswara Kunang and his father HM Kunang named as suspects for receiving bribes related to Bekasi district projects, while private sector figure Sarjan was identified as the alleged briber. This raid underscores KPK's continued efforts to dismantle corruption networks in local government, potentially implicating higher legislative figures.

KPK States Prabowo-Gibran Submitted LHKPN on Time, Setting Example for Other Officials

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has confirmed that President Prabowo Subianto and Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka submitted their State Organisers' Wealth Reports (LHKPN) on time, serving as a model for compliance among government officials, ministers, local authorities, and state-owned enterprises. As of 26 March 2026, 87.83% of required state organisers had filed their 2025 periodic reports, with KPK urging the remaining to submit by the 31 March deadline. LHKPN is highlighted as a vital tool for preventing corruption by enabling early detection of conflicts of interest and ensuring public accountability for officials' assets.

KAI Jakarta Records 1.05 Million Passengers During 2026 Eid Transport Period

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Jakarta Operational Region 1 handled 1,052,403 passengers on trains from Jakarta to destinations across Java during the 2026 Eid transport period from 11 March to 1 April, marking a 15% increase from 2024 and 3.5% from 2025. The service achieved an 86% occupancy rate with 2,213 train trips operated and high on-time performance metrics of 99.44% for departures and 98.08% for arrivals, bolstered by promotions that attracted over 325,000 discount users. This success underscores the growing reliance on rail transport for holiday travel and the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among KAI, government, and stakeholders in enhancing infrastructure capacity.

Trump considers US withdrawal from NATO due to refusal to assist against Iran

US President Donald Trump has stated that he is seriously considering the United States' withdrawal from NATO following the alliance's reluctance to support America in its conflict with Iran. Trump described NATO as a "paper tiger," appearing strong but actually weak, a view he believes Russian leadership shares. This comes after recent US-Israel strikes on Iran in late February, which prompted Iranian retaliation against Israel and US military facilities in the Middle East.

Pekalongan Proposed for Inclusion in Giant Sea Wall Project for North Java Coast

Indonesia's Minister of Public Works, Dody Hanggodo, has proposed that Pekalongan be included as a priority area in the first phase of the giant sea wall (GSW) project for the North Coast of Java, alongside Jakarta Bay and the Semarang-Kendal-Demak region. This initiative by the North Java Coast Management Authority (BOPPJ) aims to combat severe coastal flooding and tidal inundation affecting residential areas in Pekalongan, Central Java. The proposal underscores the government's commitment to enhancing resilience against climate change impacts in vulnerable coastal communities.

Philippines seeks safe passage for oil in Iran meeting

The Philippines has urgently requested Iran to designate it as a 'non-hostile country' and guarantee safe passage for its flagged vessels and oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, amid soaring fuel prices following US and Israeli strikes on Iran that prompted the strait's closure. This diplomatic effort, involving Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro and the energy secretary, underscores the nation's energy emergency declared by President Ferdinand Marcos as it scrambles for alternative supplies, including Russian crude, while regional peers like Malaysia secure similar concessions. The move highlights the Philippines' vulnerability as an import-dependent archipelago facing disrupted global energy flows.

PSI on Jokowi's Meeting with Iranian Ambassador: A Sign of International Recognition

Ahmad Ali, the daily chairman of the Indonesian Solidarity Party (PSI), views the visit by Iran's Ambassador Mohammad Boroujerdi to former President Joko Widodo as evidence of global recognition of Jokowi's geopolitical contributions, particularly in the Islamic world. Ali suggests the meeting involves seeking political support amid Iran's limited backing from other Muslim nations during Middle East conflicts, while Jokowi maintains a stance focused on promoting global peace without delving into Iran's specific tactics, such as the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz. He recommends that the current government leverage Jokowi's international stature for diplomatic communications.

Nusron and UIN Palu Rector Sign MoU, Inviting Students to Legalise Waqf Land

The Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency, Nusron Wahid, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Rector of UIN Datokarama Palu to implement thematic Community Service Programmes focused on land affairs, aiming to involve students in legalising waqf land. This collaboration seeks to address the issue of unregistered waqf lands by having students assist in processes from waqf declaration deeds to certification, enhancing legal certainty for religious and community assets. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to land reform and higher education's role in public service, with the MoU also facilitating the handover of a Certificate of Right of Use to the university.

Super Close Allies! China Goes All In on Indonesia, Largest Investment in Asia

Over the past two decades, China has invested more than US$1.5 trillion globally, with Indonesia emerging as the top Asian destination, receiving US$49.37 billion between 2005 and 2025. This surge, accelerating since 2019 to reach US$7.5 billion in 2025, positions China as the third-largest foreign investor in Indonesia, driven by strategies to relocate production amid US tariff pressures and to tap into Indonesia's vast domestic market. Investments are heavily focused on industry, downstream processing, base metals, and electric vehicle battery supply chains, strengthening economic ties and geopolitical influence.

1,319 prospective KIP recipient students pass SNBP pathway at Unila

Universitas Lampung (Unila) has accepted 2,866 prospective students through the National Selection Based on Achievement (SNBP) pathway, with 1,319 of them being recipients of the Indonesia Smart Card (KIP). However, only 647 of these KIP recipients meet the eligibility criteria for KIP Kuliah assistance, prompting Unila to offer the lowest single tuition fee (UKT) to the remaining students if central government quotas are not increased. This initiative ensures that no KIP recipient is denied access to higher education, with plans for interviews and a reporting mechanism for any objections.

Rubbish in UKA Complex Overflows, Covering Half the Road

A mound of rubbish at the temporary disposal site in the UKA Complex, North Jakarta, has overflowed, scattering across the road and hindering traffic. Residents report that the waste was last collected on Monday, with accumulation exacerbated by external residents ignoring designated disposal schedules. Local complaints highlight the unbearable stench and accessibility issues, underscoring challenges in urban waste management in densely populated areas.

Lebak Regency Dispels Anti-Criticism Rumours by Highlighting Regent Hasbi's Track Record and Performance

Lebak Regency officials have refuted claims of anti-criticism leadership by Regent Hasbi Jayabaya, emphasising his proactive efforts in securing central government funding and advancing key projects such as the World Bank-supported Local Service Delivery Improvement Project focused on modern waste management. In response to recent controversies, including a walkout by Vice Regent Amir Hamzah, the administration highlighted Hasbi's engagement with student groups to incorporate public feedback into policy-making. Over the past year, the Hasbi-Amir leadership has achieved positive outcomes in health coverage and rural infrastructure, promoting a dynamic and responsive governance model.

Indonesia's Manufacturing PMI Slows in March 2026, Kadin Highlights Weakening Global Demand

Indonesia's manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 50.1 in March 2026 from 53.8 the previous month, signalling a slowdown in expansion driven by weakening export orders and rising production costs amid global uncertainties. Kadin's Vice Chairman for Industry, Saleh Husin, noted that factors such as energy price hikes and supply chain disruptions are pressuring the sector, potentially affecting labour-intensive industries through reduced capacity utilisation and margins. While the PMI remains in expansion territory, its future trajectory will depend on global demand recovery, energy price stability, and effective government policies to bolster industrial competitiveness.

InJourney Records 6.4% Passenger Traffic Increase During 2026 Eid Period

PT Aviasi Pariwisata Indonesia (InJourney), the state-owned holding company for aviation and tourism, reported a smooth and controlled management of Eid travel and return flows in 2026, with passenger traffic rising 6.4% to 8.87 million across its airports compared to the previous year. Key successes included a 9% increase in aircraft movements, high load factors, and enhanced connectivity with 53 additional routes, alongside boosted tourism visitor numbers and hotel occupancy rates by 9%, highlighting InJourney's integrated ecosystem approach. These achievements underscore the company's vital role in handling peak mobility while enhancing customer experiences and promoting cultural attractions during the festive period.

Jakarta's Odd-Even Vehicle Restriction Temporarily Lifted on 3 April, All Vehicles Free to Pass

The Jakarta Transportation Agency has suspended the odd-even vehicle restriction system on Friday, 3 April 2026, in observance of the national holiday commemorating the Death of Jesus Christ. This decision aligns with regulations including the Joint Ministerial Decree on national holidays and Governor's Regulation No. 88 of 2019, which exempts such restrictions on public holidays. The move aims to facilitate smoother traffic flow during the holiday, while reminding motorists to adhere to traffic signs for collective safety.

President Prabowo receives South Korea's highest honour

President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia has been awarded The Grand Order of Mugunghwa, South Korea's highest national honour, by President Lee Jae Myung during a state visit to Seoul. The award recognises Prabowo's exceptional contributions to strengthening bilateral ties, elevating the partnership to a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that benefits both nations and the region. This prestigious accolade, first given in 1949, underscores the deepening friendship and strategic cooperation between Indonesia and South Korea, with past recipients including global leaders like Queen Elizabeth II and Emmanuel Macron.

West Jakarta intensifies waste sorting raids to reduce rubbish production

West Jakarta's Environmental Office is ramping up its "gerebek pilah" initiative and workshops to educate residents on sorting waste at the source, aiming to curb upstream rubbish production. The programme, approved by Mayor Iin Mutmainnah, targets every neighbourhood in the area, starting from locations like Rusun Cinta Kasih and expanding to others, with activities planned twice weekly. This effort is spurred by a reduced quota for waste disposal to the Bantar Gebang integrated waste treatment facility, from 308 to 190 trucks per day, underscoring the need for community awareness in sustainable waste management.

Farhan Bids Farewell to 1,679 Hajj Pilgrims from Bandung City

Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan presided over the solemn send-off of 1,679 confirmed Hajj pilgrims from the city at Masjid Pusdai, emphasising the sacred nature of the pilgrimage as a divine invitation that demands gratitude and focus on spiritual duties over material pursuits. The pilgrims, comprising 739 men and 940 women aged 16 to 91, will depart in five batches via Kertajati Airport from 25 April to 17 May 2026, with the city government ensuring optimal preparations in coordination with the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Farhan urged the pilgrims to prioritise health, adhere to Hajj rituals, and centre their experience on the core worship, particularly the Arafah standing, highlighting the pilgrimage's profound spiritual significance amid physical challenges.

Plastic Prices Rise, Government Seeks New Supplies

Rising plastic prices in Indonesia, driven by global supply disruptions linked to conflicts in the Middle East, have prompted complaints from businesses and the public. Trade Minister Budi Santoso explained that the country relies on imported naphtha from the region, making the supply chain vulnerable to geopolitical tensions. To mitigate the impact, the government is exploring alternative sources in Africa, India, and the Americas, though the transition will take time and involves coordination with industry associations.

Done! Slum Houses Along Senen and Tanah Abang Railway Tracks to Become Flats by 15 June

Indonesia's Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas, Maruarar Sirait, has announced the construction of 300 units of affordable flats to relocate residents from slums along the railway tracks near Pasar Senen and Kramat stations, with completion targeted for 15 June 2026. Additionally, 500 units will be built in Tanah Abang on land donated by PT Kereta Api Indonesia, addressing Jakarta's significant housing backlog. This initiative underscores the government's push for rapid, vertical housing solutions to provide decent homes for low-income communities.

Ministry of Health: Adult Measles Vaccine Requires Efficacy Study from BPOM

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has stated that vaccinating adults, particularly healthcare workers, against measles requires a prior efficacy study and clarification from the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) to confirm its suitability beyond the standard paediatric indication. Once approved, the vaccination programme will initially target healthcare personnel in 10 priority regions with the highest case numbers, followed by evaluation for wider rollout. Emphasising that communication, education, and preventive measures like proper handwashing and mask usage are equally crucial, the ministry aims to combat misinformation and rising measles cases, which reached 8,244 suspected instances and 21 outbreaks across 11 provinces in 2026.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Urges Public to Support WFH Policy for Energy Savings

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has called on the public and businesses to support the government's work culture transformation policies, including work-from-home arrangements, to save fuel amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto outlined the Eight Pillars of National Work Culture Transformation, alongside energy policies like B50 biodiesel, fiscal budget refocusing worth up to Rp130.2 trillion, and promotions for public transport and energy efficiency, all aimed at bolstering national economic resilience starting 1 April 2026. These adaptive measures, directed by President Prabowo, seek to maintain productivity and evaluate progress within two months.

Indonesia Launches Mandiri Aviation Leasing Fund, Strategic Global Partnership

Indonesia has launched its first aviation financing investment platform, the Mandiri Aviation Leasing Fund, through a collaboration between PT Danantara Investment Management, SMBC Aviation Capital, and Mandiri Investment Management, with an initial portfolio value of approximately US$800 million. This strategic initiative aims to strengthen Indonesia's position in the global aviation financing ecosystem by providing investors access to high-quality aviation assets and fostering long-term capacity building in the sector. The partnership is expected to enhance cross-border economic ties, particularly between Indonesia and Japan, while offering attractive risk-adjusted returns and scalability for future expansions.

Forestry Law Enforcement Thwarts Trade in Protected Wildlife: Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo and Southern Crowned Pigeon

Forestry law enforcement officers in Sulawesi successfully foiled an illegal trade of protected wildlife, seizing two sulphur-crested cockatoos (Probosciger aterrimus) during transport and one juvenile southern crowned pigeon (Casuarius unappendiculatus) from the suspect's residence in Manado, North Sulawesi. The operation, prompted by reports from the local Natural Resources Conservation Agency, underscores the Indonesian government's commitment to biodiversity protection amid ongoing efforts to dismantle wildlife trafficking networks. The suspect faces up to 15 years in prison and a fine of Rp5 billion under revised conservation laws, highlighting the severe penalties for such crimes.

Komnas HAM Seeks Information from TNI on Andrie Yunus Case

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has questioned senior TNI officers, including the Commander of the Military Police Centre, regarding the handling of the acid attack on activist Andrie Yunus, focusing on actions taken before the press conference and suspect designations in March 2026. Komnas HAM is pushing for transparency in the internal TNI investigation, requesting access to the four suspects from the Strategic Intelligence Agency (BAIS) and urging police to conduct a comprehensive probe beyond the current arrests. The attack has left Yunus with severe injuries, requiring ongoing medical treatments such as skin grafts and multiple eye surgeries, highlighting broader concerns over accountability in cases involving military personnel.

Purbaya to Add Rp100 Trillion for Energy Subsidies, Widening State Budget Deficit?

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa plans to allocate an additional Rp100 trillion for energy subsidies to mitigate the impact of global supply chain disruptions from Middle East conflicts, which are driving up world oil prices. This brings the total energy subsidy budget to Rp210.1 trillion, or 65.87% of the state budget, with overall energy spending including compensation potentially reaching Rp381.3 trillion, yet the government assures that the state budget deficit can be maintained below 3% even at $100 per barrel. Various scenarios project deficits ranging from 3.18% to 4.06% depending on oil prices, exchange rates, and economic growth, highlighting the need to control fiscal pressures amid rising global uncertainties.

KPK States Ono Surono Was at Home During Search

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) confirmed that West Java DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono was present at his residence in Bandung during a search conducted on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, as part of an ongoing bribery investigation. The raid relates to alleged kickback payments from Bekasi Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang, who is suspended over the Pemkab Bekasi project corruption case, with KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo noting that Surono would be aware of any evidence seized. This development underscores the KPK's continued efforts to combat corruption involving high-level officials and local government projects.

Indonesia and South Korea align to boost digital services and AI growth

Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs has signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea's Ministry of Science and Information and Communication Technology to enhance digital infrastructure, improve internet connectivity for essential services, and strengthen data protection measures. The agreement also promotes collaboration in AI development for sectors like education, health, and agriculture, alongside initiatives for digital literacy training, scholarships, and expert exchanges to build skilled talent. This partnership establishes a joint committee to support digital entrepreneurs and expand technological innovation between the two nations.

Amsal Sitepu Calls Acquittal a Form of Justice for Creative Workers

Amsal Christy Sitepu, acquitted of corruption charges in a video production project for a village profile in North Sumatra's Karo Regency, described the court's decision as a significant victory for justice and the creative industry. The Medan Corruption Court ruled that Sitepu was not proven guilty, restoring her rights and reputation while allowing her to resume her work as a videographer. Sitepu expressed gratitude to the judges, President Prabowo Subianto, and DPR member Hinca Panjaitan for their support during the legal process.

Civil Service Police Enforce Order on Street Vendors in North Jakarta

The Civil Service Police (Satpol PP) of Tanjung Priok Sub-District in North Jakarta conducted an enforcement operation on Wednesday, targeting street vendors (PKL) and illegal structures on public facilities to uphold Local Regulation No. 8 of 2007 on Public Order. Four PKL units, one wooden bench, one commercial tent, and one illegal building were removed and taken to the Satpol PP post for processing, with raids conducted at key locations such as Jalan Yos Sudarso and Jalan Sunter Kemayoran. Officials emphasised a persuasive approach to foster community awareness and maintain a tidy, safe, and comfortable environment, as part of the ongoing "Rabu Tertib" initiative.

Groundbreaking of PKB Aceh Office, Cak Imin Hopes It Marks the Beginning of the Party's Voice Revival

The Aceh branch of the National Awakening Party (PKB) has commenced construction of a new representative secretariat office in Banda Aceh, with the groundbreaking ceremony led by PKB Chairman Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin. He expressed optimism that the strategically located office would serve as a catalyst for revitalising the party's political influence in Aceh, viewing it not merely as an administrative building but as a centre for worship, service, and knowledge aligned with Islamic and national values. The event, attended by party leaders and charismatic Acehnese ulama, symbolises strengthened solidarity and commitment to serving the local community.

Advanced! Bulog Plans to Build 100 New Warehouses Superior to Private Sector

Perum Bulog, Indonesia's state logistics agency, is embarking on a major transformation in food processing and storage by constructing 100 new warehouses with modern technology to rival private industry standards. The Rp5 trillion investment will fund 94 warehouses, six rice silos, and eight corn silos across 92 districts, incorporating mechanisation, automation, and IT systems to enhance post-harvest infrastructure. This initiative aims to strengthen commodity durability and adapt facilities to regional needs, ensuring efficient logistics through rigorous site assessments.

Indonesia Enters Global Aircraft Leasing Business as Danantara Launches New Platform

PT Danantara Investment Management (DIM), in partnership with SMBC Aviation Capital and Mandiri Investment Management, has established the Mandiri Aviation Leasing Fund, Indonesia's first aviation leasing investment platform with an initial portfolio value of approximately US$800 million (Rp13.59 trillion). This collaboration aims to strengthen Indonesia's position in the global aviation financing ecosystem by providing attractive returns and building strategic capabilities. Industry leaders highlight the fund's potential to support long-term growth, innovation, and collaboration in the sector while opening access for investors to global aviation assets.

Impact of War in Iran: Tourism Minister Prepares Strategy to Safeguard Tourism Targets

Indonesia's Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, has outlined strategies to mitigate the disruptions caused by the closure of Iranian airspace from 28 February to 28 March 2026, which is expected to result in the loss of around 60,000 international tourist arrivals and Rp 2.04 trillion in unrealised foreign exchange. The ministry is pivoting towards markets in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and medium-haul destinations while enhancing international digital campaigns to maintain the 2026 target of 16-17.6 million foreign visitors, amid broader challenges from a 52% surge in global oil prices. During a meeting with Commission VII of the House of Representatives, lawmakers commended the approach but urged stronger domestic connectivity and analysis of shifting tourist behaviours.

Central Kalimantan Governor: Prevent Hoarding and No Need for Panic Buying of Fuel

Central Kalimantan Governor Agustiar Sabran has urged residents to remain calm and avoid panic buying of fuel, assuring that supplies are currently stable. He called for public participation in monitoring distribution to prevent hoarding by petrol stations or individuals, with reports of violations encouraged to authorities. The provincial government is prepared to take swift action, including recommending the revocation of operating permits for non-compliant fuel stations, to ensure smooth and targeted fuel distribution.

DPR's Special Committee on International Private Law Bill Discusses Issues of Indonesian Citizens Marrying Interfaith or Same-Sex Abroad

The DPR's Special Committee on the International Private Law Bill (RUU HPI) is addressing the legal challenges posed by Indonesian citizens entering interfaith or same-sex marriages abroad, which are recognised in Indonesia under current marriage laws if performed legally in the host country. Committee members, including I Wayan Sudirta and Soedeson Tandra, argue that such practices amount to "legal smuggling" that conflicts with national legal foundations, religious norms, and public order, urging clearer provisions in the RUU HPI to limit recognition of foreign marriages incompatible with Indonesian values. Experts from the Indonesian Judges Association and Notaries Association emphasise that foreign legal acts, including marriages, must not violate Indonesia's public order to be enforceable domestically.