Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 April 2026

Showing 501-550 of 1,736 articles

BI: Digital Payment Transactions Grow 33.76 Percent in the First Quarter

Bank Indonesia reports that digital payment transactions reached 14.39 billion in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 33.76 percent year-on-year increase, supported by a secure, smooth, and reliable payment system. Key drivers include significant growth in mobile and internet-based transactions, with QRIS surging by 111.94 percent, alongside robust performance in BI-FAST retail transactions at 30.82 percent growth. The central bank emphasizes ongoing efforts to strengthen industry structure, risk management, and currency availability to maintain payment system stability across Indonesia.

YouTube Complies with PP Tunas Policy on 16-Year Age Limit

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, announced that YouTube has committed to complying with the government's policy restricting access for users under 16 years old, as part of the PP Tunas regulation aimed at protecting children online. This includes implementing age notifications, deactivating underage accounts, and eliminating ads targeting children and teenagers. With this, all seven major platforms—X, Bigo Live, Meta's services, TikTok, and YouTube—have pledged adherence, marking a significant step in safeguarding Indonesian youth in the digital realm.

Zulhas Designates Locations for 100 New Bulog Warehouses - Capable of Storing 900,000 Tonnes of Rice

The Indonesian government, led by Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan (Zulhas), has approved the construction of 100 new warehouses for state-owned Perum Bulog to bolster national food reserves, with a total additional capacity of 900,000 tonnes of rice and a budget of Rp5 trillion. These modern facilities, incorporating advanced technology from BRIN to extend rice shelf life up to two years, will be distributed across 26 Bulog regional offices and 92 districts/cities, prioritising underdeveloped 3T areas like South Nias and Morotai to improve logistics in remote regions. The initiative also includes supporting infrastructure such as dryers and rice milling units in high-production areas for paddy and maize, enhancing overall food security and storage efficiency nationwide.

Nadiem's Legal Team Compactly Absent, Chromebook Case Hearing Postponed

The trial of former Minister of Education Nadiem Makarim in the alleged corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops and Chrome Device Management (CDM) was postponed after his entire legal team failed to appear in court. Nadiem, who is in custody but reported as unwell, had his health checked by a doctor who deemed him fit to proceed, yet the hearing was rescheduled to 27 April 2026 due to the absence of counsel and concerns over his condition. The case centres on a project that allegedly caused state losses of Rp 2.1 trillion through overpriced laptops and unnecessary CDM procurement, with three other defendants also involved.

ReforMiner States Copper Demand Will Rise Due to Renewable Energy and EVs

Pri Agung Rakhmanto, founder of ReforMiner Institute, predicts a surge in copper demand driven by infrastructure, renewable energy, and electric vehicles, which will absorb output from Indonesia's copper smelters. He urges government support to develop downstream industries for optimal growth and appreciates ongoing copper downstreaming efforts that enhance export value. Major mining companies like PT Freeport Indonesia, PT Amman Mineral, and PT Merdeka Copper Gold report substantial reserve increases, bolstered by smelters that add significant value to the commodity.

Wuling Eksion Launches, 7-Seater Electric SUV Starting at Rp 389 Million

Wuling Motors has launched the Eksion, a 7-seater SUV available in both pure electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, with the EV model starting at an aggressive price of Rp 389 million for the first 2,000 buyers. This affordable entry into the electrified vehicle market positions the Eksion as a direct competitor to conventional diesel SUVs, offering lower operating costs, a spacious family-friendly interior, and advanced features like Level 2 ADAS for enhanced safety. The launch signals a shift towards more accessible electrification in Indonesia's automotive industry, potentially reshaping consumer preferences in the urban family SUV segment.

Unreasonable Share Prices, Why Are Investors Still Rushing to Buy CASA Shares?

The shares of PT Capital Financial Indonesia Tbk. (CASA) have surged 69% in the past year and 234% over five years, placing it among Indonesia's top 10 financial companies by market capitalisation at Rp67 trillion. However, its price-to-earnings ratio stands at an extraordinarily high 515 times, far exceeding major banks like BCA (13.93 times) and BRI (8.72 times), despite modest profit growth and no dividend payments since its 2016 listing. This discrepancy raises questions about the sustainability of investor enthusiasm for CASA amid valuations disconnected from its fundamentals.

Unpad and Ministry of Transmigration Develop Sweet Potato Centre to Support Food Self-Sufficiency and Security

Universitas Padjadjaran (Unpad) is collaborating with the Ministry of Transmigration to establish a sweet potato centre aimed at becoming a national hub for research and seed development, particularly for transmigration areas, to bolster Indonesia's food self-sufficiency and security. The initiative, aligned with President Prabowo's directives, leverages available land and labour in transmigration programmes, supported by scientific expertise from universities, business investment, and market guarantees. This partnership emphasises business models, investment needs, and logistics to optimise sweet potato production and contribute to national food resilience.

Victims of Violence in West Bandung Encouraged to Be Independent Through Digital Entrepreneurship

In West Bandung, 50 women victims of violence participated in a digital entrepreneurship training programme organised by Telkom University from 16 to 18 April 2026, aimed at fostering economic independence and gender equality. The initiative, supported by PT Telkom Indonesia's SDGs efforts, covers skills in business, digital marketing, financial literacy, and AI utilisation to enhance competitiveness and create an inclusive economy. Collaboration with local government ensures ongoing three-month mentoring to sustain participants' ventures and strengthen family and community economies.

Jakarta Becomes Top Destination for Domestic Workers, DKI DPRD to Monitor Implementation of Domestic Workers Protection Law

The Jakarta DPRD, led by Deputy Chair Ima Mahdiah, plans to closely oversee the implementation of the newly enacted Domestic Workers Protection Law (UU PPRT), given the capital's high demand for such workers and their vulnerability to exploitation. This initiative aligns with International Women's Day reflections on empowering women, aiming for a balanced approach that benefits both employers and workers. The law's passage after 22 years marks a historic step in formalising protections for informal sector domestic employees, ensuring legal certainty without undermining familial bonds.

After 10 Years, Bekasi City Gateway Begins Demolition

The landmark gateway in Bekasi City, standing for a decade since 2016, has started being dismantled to accommodate the Becakayu Toll Road route. The demolition, managed by the city's Development, Building Management, Spatial Planning, and Environment Agency (DBMSDA), follows a thorough technical review and is being conducted at night to minimise traffic disruptions, with completion targeted within a week. While the structure was also deemed unsafe due to deterioration, no immediate plans exist for reconstruction, highlighting the prioritisation of major infrastructure projects in urban development.

Google Finally Gives In: This YouTube Account Blocked in Indonesia

YouTube, under Google, has complied with Indonesia's PP Tunas regulation by restricting access for users under 16 and planning to deactivate affected accounts, as announced by Minister Meutya Hafid. The platform will also eliminate advertisements targeting children and teenagers, marking a significant step in government efforts to regulate social media for youth protection. While the exact number of impacted accounts remains undisclosed, Google assures updates on the implementation process in the coming months.

Government Raises Reference Price for Live Cattle by Rp1,000/kg to This Amount

The Indonesian government has adjusted the Reference Selling Price (HAP) for live cattle upwards by approximately Rp1,000 per kg to Rp59,000 per kg, in response to global geopolitical pressures affecting import costs. This change aims to address rising prices of imported feeder cattle from Australia, which have exceeded historical norms, potentially impacting beef prices in import-dependent regions like Jabodetabek. While consumer beef prices remain stable at Rp130,000 to Rp140,000 per kg, the shift has boosted demand for cheaper buffalo meat alternatives.

DKI Provincial Government and Shenzhen Agree on "Sister City" Cooperation

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has agreed to establish a "sister city" partnership with Shenzhen, China, to strengthen international relations and share best practices for advancing sustainable urban development. Jakarta's Governor Pramono Anung highlighted the intent to learn from Shenzhen's experiences in addressing challenges like transportation, congestion, pollution, and flooding, with the agreement targeted for realisation in November 2026. Shenzhen's Executive Vice Mayor Tao Yongxin proposed collaborations in technology, innovation, people-to-people exchanges, and maritime sectors, including sharing expertise in electric vehicle electrification and AI for public services.

To Safeguard the Rupiah, BI Eases Offshore NDF Ban for Primary Dealers

Bank Indonesia (BI) has introduced exemptions from the ban on offshore Non-Deliverable Forward (NDF) sales of foreign exchange against the rupiah for qualified primary dealers in the Money and Foreign Exchange Markets (PUVA), aiming to bolster rupiah exchange rate stability and deepen the domestic financial market. The central bank is expanding monetary operations with spot and swap instruments in offshore Chinese Renminbi (CNH) against the rupiah to support stabilisation and local currency transactions for trade and investment. BI remains committed to 24-hour market interventions, strengthening interest rate structures to attract foreign portfolio inflows, and maintaining primary money growth above 10 per cent to ensure liquidity, with the rupiah holding relatively stable at Rp17,140 per US dollar as of 21 April 2026.

Meta Tests WhatsApp Plus: What Features Does It Offer and How Much Does It Cost?

Meta is trialling a new subscription service called WhatsApp Plus, similar to premium offerings on Instagram and Snapchat, aimed at providing users with enhanced personalisation options. Key features include pinning up to 20 chats, creating custom chat lists with specific themes and sounds, and applying custom chat themes and app icons. While the service adds functionality, it does not remove ads from the Status feature, and pricing details remain undisclosed in the trial phase.

From Ferrari to Gold Paintings: Prosecutor's Office to Auction Assets Totaling Rp 100 Billion

The Asset Recovery Agency (BPA) has launched the BPA Fair 2026, an innovative auction event from 18 to 22 May 2026, featuring over 400 assets valued at more than Rp 100 billion, including luxury sports cars like Ferraris and gold paintings, primarily seized from legal enforcement actions. This initiative aims to enhance transparency, efficiency, and public engagement in asset recovery through digital transformation and collaborations with the Ministry of Finance and state-owned banks, targeting a 75% sales rate to optimise state revenue and educate the public on the process. The event underscores the commitment to not only prosecute but also recover state losses, fostering better economic stability and governance.

JCI Closes Lower Amid Uncertainty Over US-Iran Ceasefire

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) closed 0.24% lower at 7,541.61 on Wednesday, pressured by regional Asian market declines influenced by the stalled US-Iran peace talks and ongoing Middle East tensions, despite a ceasefire extension. Bank Indonesia held its BI-Rate at 4.75% to safeguard the rupiah's stability against global economic deterioration from the conflict. Sector performance was mixed, with transportation and logistics leading gains, while basic materials saw the deepest losses, reflecting broader investor caution.

Bareskrim Uncovers Global Phishing Network Targeting 34,000 Victims and Causing Rp 350 Billion in Losses

Indonesian police's Cyber Crime Directorate has dismantled an international phishing operation that affected 34,000 victims worldwide, resulting in losses of approximately Rp 350 billion (US$20 million). The network, involving production and sale of phishing tools via websites and Telegram, was exposed through cyber patrols and undercover operations using cryptocurrency. Two suspects, including the main perpetrator with a self-taught background in script development, have been arrested in Kupang, highlighting Indonesia's role in combating global cybercrime.

Attorney General's Office Uncovers Shadow Company Linked to Mafia in Zarof Ricar Case

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office has discovered a shadow company allegedly established by former Supreme Court official Zarof Ricar and Agung Winarno to launder proceeds from Zarof's bribery convictions. During raids on two Jakarta-based firms, investigators seized over 1,000 documents related to land, buildings, palm oil plantations, and other assets, along with foreign currency, deposits, luxury vehicles, and gold bars. This breakthrough follows months of asset tracing, highlighting ongoing efforts to recover illicit gains from high-level corruption in the judiciary.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Allocates PIP Scholarships for 888,000 Kindergarten Pupils

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has allocated scholarships under the Indonesia Pintar Programme (PIP) for 888,000 kindergarten pupils this year, marking the first time such aid has been extended to this level at Rp450,000 per pupil annually. Overall, the number of PIP recipients across primary, secondary, and vocational schools has risen to 19.6 million, up from 19 million planned for 2025, demonstrating the government's commitment to advancing education and building human resources as part of the President's Asta Cita vision. The initiative aligns with the 13-year compulsory education programme starting from kindergarten, with priorities on revitalising schools in disaster-affected and remote 3T areas to ensure at least one kindergarten per village.

SPPG Pejaten's Inaugural Buffet-Style Free Nutritious Meal Service Excites Students

SPPG Polri Pejaten has launched a trial buffet-style Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme at SMA Kemala Bhayangkari 1 in South Jakarta, where students enthusiastically participated in the communal dining setup. School principal Muryanto highlighted the benefits for students who skip breakfast, fostering a sense of togetherness. Head of SPPG, Muhamad Iqbal Salim, noted that the approach promotes discipline, reduces food waste, and adheres to nutritional guidelines, with evaluations planned to assess its effectiveness ahead of Bhayangkara Day.

Rice Export Deal Not Yet Sealed, Bulog CEO Reveals Malaysia's Offer Price

Negotiations for Indonesia's rice exports to Malaysia remain stalled due to a significant price gap, with Malaysia offering below Rp10,000 per kg while Bulog seeks around Rp13,000-Rp14,000 for premium quality rice. Despite Malaysia's strong interest in 200,000 tonnes—potentially worth Rp2.9 trillion at Bulog's price—the deal is unlikely without a price agreement, as Indonesian domestic prices already exceed the Malaysian offer. This impasse highlights challenges in leveraging Indonesia's rice surplus for international trade amid domestic price stability concerns.

Puan: Surge in Energy and Essential Goods Prices Burdens the People

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has highlighted the rising prices of energy and essential goods, driven by global geopolitical tensions from the Middle East conflict, which are straining Indonesian households, particularly those in lower economic brackets. She urged the government to implement control and mitigation measures amid recent increases in non-subsidised fuel, LPG by up to 18 per cent, and cooking oil, with national average prices climbing to Rp 19,592 per litre and reaching as high as Rp 60,000 in some remote areas. Puan emphasised that such price hikes directly alter daily household spending patterns, making essentials like cooking oil an even greater burden for families with tight budgets.

Modus of Indonesian Citizens Departing for Illegal Hajj via Soekarno-Hatta Airport Revealed, Here Are the Threats to Hajj Pilgrims

Indonesian immigration authorities at Soekarno-Hatta Airport prevented 13 Indonesian citizens from departing on illegal Hajj pilgrimages between 18 and 19 April 2026, uncovering a modus operandi involving work visas to Jeddah without proper documentation. The operation, directed by the Director General of Immigration, emphasises protecting citizens from legal troubles and risks abroad through intensified checks, profiling, and inter-agency coordination. This preventive measure underscores Indonesia's commitment to enforcing official Hajj procedures amid ongoing efforts to curb non-procedural travel.

Rasuna Said Road Undergoing Revamp with Sidewalks Built Like Those Abroad

The Jakarta Provincial Government, led by Governor Pramono Anung, is revitalising the sidewalks along Jalan HR Rasuna Said in the Kuningan area, following the dismantling of 109 monorail poles. The 3.65-kilometre project, which includes constructing drains, road improvements, pedestrian facilities, and parks, costs Rp 100 billion and aims to enhance pedestrian comfort in the capital. Targeted for completion by Jakarta's 499th anniversary on 22 June, the initiative seeks to match the quality of the renowned Sudirman-Thamrin corridor.

Taxpayers Reporting SPT Reach 75.77 Percent of Target

The Directorate General of Taxation reports that as of 21 April 2026, 11.57 million taxpayers have submitted their Annual Tax Returns (SPT) for personal income tax via Coretax, achieving 75.77 percent of the 15.27 million target. The deadline for individual taxpayers has been extended to 30 April 2026, with administrative penalties waived for submissions during this extension period to encourage compliance. This measure applies to the 2025 tax year and includes provisions for payments or settlements of outstanding income tax liabilities.

North Korea spotlights 'prowess' of Kim Jong Un's daughter, South Korea calls it succession signal

North Korean state media has broadcast footage of Kim Jong Un's daughter firing weapons and driving a tank, which South Korean intelligence interprets as an effort to showcase her military capabilities and signal potential female leadership succession. The National Intelligence Service of South Korea has informed lawmakers that the likelihood of a woman succeeding Kim Jong Un is increasing, drawing parallels to how Kim Jong Un was prepared by his father. This development, including reports of female military personnel in special operations training, underscores North Korea's strategic grooming of the young Kim Ju Ae, estimated to be around 13 years old, for a possible future role.

Chromebook Corruption Trial Postponed Due to Nadiem Makarim's Illness

The trial for the alleged corruption in the procurement of Chromebook-based laptops involving former Minister of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology Nadiem Makarim was postponed on Wednesday due to his illness and the absence of his legal counsel. The presiding judge, Purwanto S Abdullah, at the Jakarta Corruption Court, scheduled the next hearing for Monday to allow the defendant time to recover. Although medical staff confirmed Makarim was unwell but capable of attending, and prosecutors noted he was in the holding cell but claimed sickness upon being called, the court did not compel his appearance.

Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection: Domestic Workers Protection Act is Legitimate, Families Must Report to Neighbourhood Unit When Employing Domestic Workers

Indonesia's Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Fauzi, has announced that the newly ratified Domestic Workers Protection Act (UU PPRT) mandates families employing domestic workers (PRT) to report to their local neighbourhood unit (RT/RW). The legislation, passed after over two decades of advocacy, recognises PRT as protected workers, ensuring rights against discrimination, exploitation, and violence, while requiring recruitment through licensed agencies for those aged 18 and above. It also provides social security benefits, with health contributions subsidised by the government and employment insurance covered by employers, marking a significant step towards safeguarding vulnerable workers in the informal sector.

List of Countries with the Cheapest Internet in the World, Where Does Indonesia Rank?

Indonesia ranks second in Southeast Asia and 12th globally for the cheapest fixed broadband internet, with an average monthly cost of US$10.66, according to the 'Global Broadband Price League 2026' report. This affordability supports economic growth through better internet access, though it trails Vietnam regionally and Iran leads worldwide at just US$2.61 monthly due to government subsidies. The report highlights how infrastructure and pricing variations impact digital inclusion across nations.

Reasons PKS Removed Khoirudin from Position as Chairman of DKI Jakarta DPRD

The central leadership of the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has replaced Khoirudin with Suhud Alynudin as Chairman of the DKI Jakarta Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD), citing it as a standard rotation of duties within the party. Khoirudin has been reassigned to a central party management role, while Suhud, the current head of PKS's DKI Jakarta branch, takes over the legislative leadership position. This move underscores PKS's internal cadre rotation practices and maintains the party's control over key provincial assembly roles.

Aek Nabara Parish Credit Union Case Resolved, BNI's Statement

Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has apologised to the Catholic community in Indonesia, particularly the Aek Nabara Parish Credit Union, for the discomfort caused by the embezzlement of Rp28 billion by its former branch head, Andi Hakim Febriansyah. The bank has fully reimbursed the stolen funds, transferring an additional Rp21.26 billion to complete the total repayment of Rp28.26 billion. The resolution, supported by high-level government attention including from President Prabowo Subianto, aims to restore public trust in banking institutions and serve as a lesson for improved practices.

Fed Chairman Candidate Kevin Warsh Promises Independence of US Central Bank

Kevin Warsh, Donald Trump's nominee for Federal Reserve Chair, assured the Senate Banking Committee that he would maintain the central bank's independence and not lower interest rates merely at the president's request. Facing criticism from Senator Elizabeth Warren branding him a 'puppet' for Trump's economic agenda, Warsh emphasised that Fed independence relies on the institution itself, amid Trump's repeated calls for rate cuts and threats to dismiss current chair Jerome Powell. The nomination faces potential hurdles, including Republican Senator Thom Tillis's intent to block confirmation until a criminal probe into Powell's headquarters renovation is halted, with Powell's term ending on 15 May but vowing to stay until a successor is confirmed.

Taj Yasin Urges Acceleration of Sanitation Development for 21,000 Homes in Central Java

Deputy Governor Taj Yasin has called for the swift completion of sanitation facilities for approximately 21,542 households in Central Java that still lack access to proper toilets, highlighting the province's achievement of building 5,328 units in 2025. Emphasising the role of sanitation in improving public health and combating stunting, which affects 9.77% or about 188,533 toddlers in the region, he sought support from the central government and DPR RI's Commission VIII. The commission pledged to address these needs and announced aid packages worth trillions of rupiah, including social ministry support and halal certification for micro-businesses.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Appreciates Private Sector Synergy in Expanding Education Access

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has praised the involvement of the private sector, particularly Oreo, in supporting the expansion and quality improvement of education in Indonesia through the distribution of educational play tools focused on literacy, numeracy, science, and English. This initiative aligns with the government's vision for Golden Indonesia 2045 and targets early childhood to strengthen learning and character development. Oreo's "Oreo Berbagi Seru" programme aims to enhance learning quality and equitable access through enjoyable teaching activities, addressing ongoing educational challenges.

Indonesia's Vegetable Business Value Estimated to Reach Rp120 Trillion, Food System as Main Challenge

The economic potential of Indonesia's vegetable sector is estimated at Rp120 trillion annually, highlighting significant opportunities amid complex challenges in food system management. Expert Bayu Krisnamurthi notes that vegetables' perishable nature requires daily production and distribution, exacerbated by climate change, rising input costs, limited land, and waste issues. He advocates for technological solutions like climate-resilient seeds and urban farming methods such as hydroponics and aeroponics to address these hurdles.

Access to Decent Sanitation Helps Women Navigate Menstruation Comfortably

UNICEF Indonesia's Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Specialist, Muhammad Zainal, highlights that proper sanitation access enables women to manage menstruation without stigma or discrimination, allowing them to continue schooling and daily activities. He stresses the need for affordable sanitary products, accurate education, and cross-sector collaboration involving government, schools, families, communities, and the private sector to address persistent taboos and inadequate facilities. On Kartini Day, Zainal notes UNICEF's WASH programme's efforts in schools to normalise menstruation as a natural growth process while ensuring safe water, sanitation, and hygiene practices.

Bulog Adopts BRIN Technology to Store Rice for Up to Two Years

Perum Bulog is set to adopt a technology developed by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) that allows rice to be stored in warehouses for nearly two years without the need for fumigation or chemicals, enhancing its healthiness and hygiene. The implementation will begin gradually in new government-built warehouses, with plans to eventually cover all 100 sites and renovate older facilities, supporting Indonesia's national food security. This innovation, a product of local ingenuity, forms part of broader government efforts to strengthen post-harvest infrastructure and stabilise food supplies across regions.

As the World Grows Anxious: Poland Hoards Gold, Russia Sells Off

Global central banks are displaying increasingly fragmented policies in 2026, with some nations aggressively accumulating gold reserves as a hedge against geopolitical uncertainties, while others sell to maintain fiscal stability. Poland leads with over 20 tonnes added, aiming for 700 tonnes amid Eastern European security concerns, followed by emerging markets like Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan; conversely, Russia and Turkey are top sellers, with Russia offloading 15.55 tonnes due to war expenses and sanctions, and Turkey stabilising its lira. This divergence reflects a broader shift away from US dollar reliance post-Russia's asset freeze, underscoring gold's role as a jurisdiction-free safe haven in turbulent times.

List of 103 Free Private Schools in Jakarta, Prioritising Areas Without State Schools

The Jakarta Provincial Government, through its Education Office, has prepared 103 free private schools across five administrative regions to enhance access to education. Currently, 40 schools are operational until the end of the academic year, with an additional 63 set to join from June, totalling 103, prioritised in sub-districts lacking government schools. This initiative aims to reach more students, particularly in underserved areas, with the list including various levels from junior secondary to special needs education.

Infrastructure Inequality: Smooth Roads, Lagging Rails

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, has highlighted significant underinvestment in the railway sector compared to roads, with the 2026 budget allocating Rp 46 trillion for national roads versus just Rp 5 trillion for rail infrastructure. He emphasised the strategic role of railways in enhancing inter-regional logistics, reducing carbon emissions—where road transport contributes 89% compared to less than 1% from trains—and addressing the imbalance where 10,000 km of the 12,000 km network is concentrated on Java. The government plans to expand rail networks in Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi through various financing schemes, estimating a long-term cost of Rp 1,200 trillion for 14,000 km, to support resource-rich areas and bolster national railway industry self-reliance.

Semen Indonesia (SMGR): New Product Innovations Contribute 11 Percent to Construction Material Costs

PT Semen Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (SIG), a leading player in Indonesia's building materials industry, is focusing on product innovations and supply chain development to drive sustainable growth. The company highlights that cement currently accounts for just 11 percent of total construction material costs, leaving significant potential in other derivatives, which SIG aims to capture through its extensive distribution network and customer-centric strategies. At the INTERCEM Asia 2026 conference, SIG is seeking global collaborations to enhance efficiency, digitalisation, and sustainability in the sector, which grew by 6.16 percent in 2025 with investments reaching Rp 25 trillion and employing over 900,000 workers.

Commitment to Resolve West Java Non-Permanent Worker Salaries, Here's KDM's Approach

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi has pledged to meet the Minister of State Apparatus Utilization and Bureaucratic Reform to address the issue of unpaid salaries for non-permanent workers in the province. The provincial government has already allocated funds for the payments but is restricted by a ministerial circular prohibiting such disbursements to avoid financial irregularities. Despite these constraints, Mulyadi emphasised the essential role of these workers, including teachers, administrative staff, and cleaners, in schools.

PDIP Hears of Discussions on Crucial Issues at Leadership Level Regarding Election Law

PDIP politician Deddy Sitorus has revealed informal discussions at the parliamentary leadership level on revising the Election Law, focusing on key issues, though no draft has been prepared yet. He indicated that the government aims to finalise the revision draft by April 2026 to meet deadlines for the KPU selection in September and ensure sufficient time for election preparations. Meanwhile, PKB Secretary-General Hasanuddin Wahid urged for official discussions on the bill this year, with parties conducting studies on critical aspects like seat allocation systems.

Volatile Market, COFU10 Crude Oil Futures Surge Sharply in March 2026

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have driven a sharp increase in hedging activities for energy commodities, with Indonesia Commodity & Derivatives Exchange (ICDX) recording 648 lots traded for COFU10 crude oil futures contracts in March 2026, up from just 4 and 12 lots in January and February respectively. The COFU10 contract, based on West Texas Intermediate (WTI) benchmark, reflects market volatility amid ongoing conflicts, particularly the Iran war disrupting supplies through vital routes like the Strait of Hormuz, which accounts for 20% of global energy supply. Analysts predict short-term bullish trends with resistance at $95-100 per barrel and potential support at $75-80 if negative catalysts emerge, highlighting ICDX's role in facilitating hedging for businesses.

Komnas HAM urges improvements and regulation of SPPG to strengthen MBG programme quality

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) is calling on the government to enhance and regulate the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) to improve the quality of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, ensuring optimal benefits for children. Coordinator Pramono Ubaid Tanthowi emphasised the importance of preventing negligence in food preparation, handling, and distribution to maintain food safety standards and avoid human rights violations through omission. Komnas HAM plans to provide recommendations based on studies to support comprehensive governance from sourcing to delivery, promoting accountability and sustainability in this strategic government initiative.

National Traffic Police Chief Awards Samsat-Polda Coordinators for Service Innovations

The Head of the National Traffic Police, Irjen Agus Suryonugroho, presented awards to several regional police forces (Polda) in Indonesia for their innovative approaches to Samsat services during a national coordination meeting in Semarang. Notable recipients include the Samsat coordinators from North Maluku, South Kalimantan, Banten, and DIY, as well as Central Java Police and the Criminal Investigation Directorate of South Kalimantan Police, recognised for initiatives such as floating Samsat services, 'Samsat Ceria', high compliance rates, independent STNK certification funding, and uncovering vehicle document forgery. Irjen Agus emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration between central and regional agencies, solid coordination to avoid conflicts, and a digital leap to improve vehicle tax payment services, underscoring the role of these innovations in better serving the public.

Komnas HAM urges technical oversight to strengthen MBG programme quality

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has called for enhanced technical supervision of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at the field level to ensure food safety, sustainability, and optimal benefits. Emphasising the need for zero tolerance towards negative impacts such as food poisoning, Komnas HAM advocates for comprehensive monitoring from production to distribution, involving government auditors, inspectorates, and public participation for greater accountability. The commission plans to compile recommendations based on studies to refine the programme's implementation, underscoring its strategic importance while pushing for continuous improvements rather than discontinuation.

BNI Fully Returns CU Aek Nabara Depositors' Funds and Apologises to the Public

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has announced the full repayment of Rp28.257 billion to depositors of the Credit Union (CU) Paroki Aek Nabara in North Sumatra, completing the process with a final transfer of Rp21.257 billion following an initial Rp7 billion. BNI's Director of Human Capital and Compliance, Mudani Herlambang, expressed gratitude for the patience shown and issued a public apology to the Indonesian Catholic community and affected parties for the inconvenience caused. This resolution underscores BNI's commitment to restoring public trust and serving as a lesson for improved financial services in Indonesia.