Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 April 2026

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Kemendes Extends Data Entry Deadline for 2026 BUMDes Ranking

The Ministry of Villages and Underdeveloped Regions (Kemendes PDT) has extended the deadline for data entry in the 2026 ranking of Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) and Joint BUMDes (BUMDesma) to 10 May 2026, up from the original 18 April, to allow more entities to complete their registrations. As of now, 40,772 BUMDes have participated, with 20,404 still inputting data and 1,705 having submitted complete information. This extension aims to ensure accurate and comprehensive data, which is crucial for shaping future village economic development policies.

KPK Examines 7 Village Heads in Connection with Sudewo Case

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned seven village heads for questioning as witnesses in the alleged extortion case involving former Pati Regent Sudewo. The examinations took place at a police station in Rembang, Central Java, following KPK's January 2026 sting operation that led to Sudewo's arrest and the designation of four suspects, including Sudewo and three village heads, for extortion related to village official appointments. Additionally, Sudewo faces charges in a separate bribery case concerning railway project contracts under the Ministry of Transportation.

BI estimates Indonesia's economy to grow 4.9-5.7 percent in 2026

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has projected Indonesia's economic growth for 2026 to range between 4.9 and 5.7 percent, emphasising the central bank's coordinated policies with the government to maintain stability while supporting growth amid deteriorating global economic prospects. Recent indicators show robust first-quarter growth in 2026, driven by strong domestic demand, increased government spending including holiday allowances and social expenditures, and sustained investment in government priority programmes. Moving forward, enhanced policy measures are deemed essential to bolster employment absorption, domestic demand, and fiscal resilience in the face of global challenges.

Government Targets Completion of 14,000 Kilometres of Railway Lines Outside Java by 2045

The Indonesian government aims to complete the construction of 14,000 kilometres of railway lines across Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi by 2045, as announced by Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono. Key priorities include extending existing tracks in Sumatra with a quick-win project connecting Banda Aceh to Besitang, expanding networks in Sulawesi to resource-rich areas like Central and Southeast Sulawesi through industry partnerships, and developing at least 2,700 kilometres in Kalimantan for logistics, mining, and to alleviate road congestion. This ambitious initiative seeks to enhance connectivity and support economic development in these outer islands.

BGN urges regional heads to oversee supply chains for raw materials for MBG

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has called on governors, regents, and mayors to closely monitor supply chains for raw materials to ensure the success of the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) and boost the welfare of local farmers, livestock breeders, and fishermen. Allocating Rp10,000 out of Rp15,000 per serving for raw materials, the programme emphasises synergy between service units and local governments to prevent inflation and support grassroots economies. BGN also stresses strict oversight of kitchen operations for hygiene and freshness, with digital platforms proposed for real-time transparency and monitoring.

BGN Denies Provision of Subsidised Housing for SPPG Employees

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has denied reports of a special subsidised housing programme for employees of the Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) or free nutritious meal kitchens (MBG), stating that such benefits are open to all eligible individuals. This follows media reports citing a meeting between the Rector of the Defence University and the Minister of Housing, which suggested plans for 1,000 FLPP-subsidised units with minimal down payments for these workers, but both the ministry and BP Tapera have confirmed no special allocations exist. The clarification underscores the government's commitment to equitable access to low-income housing under the FLPP scheme, targeting households earning between Rp8.5 million and Rp14 million monthly across various professions.

Dollar Comfortably Above Rp17,100, BI Chief: Rupiah Undervalued!

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has stated that the rupiah's current exchange rate against the US dollar, lingering above Rp17,000, is undervalued relative to its economic fundamentals, which remain strong and stable. He expressed confidence in the rupiah's potential to stabilise and strengthen, supported by BI's commitments, attractive yields, and Indonesia's positive economic outlook. On the morning of 22 April 2026, the rupiah opened stronger at Rp17,130 per dollar, continuing a positive trend amid a slight weakening of the US dollar index.

Tokenisation of Financial Assets Opens New Digital Investment Access for the Public

Tokenisation of financial assets is viewed as a significant advancement in the evolution of modern capital markets, enabling broader access to investment opportunities and faster transactions in Indonesia. The Association of Financial Technology (Aftech) has released a study providing a clearer classification framework for digital assets, aiming to foster healthy and sustainable growth in the sector. Bank Indonesia emphasises the importance of this initiative in ensuring monetary sovereignty and financial system stability while promoting financial inclusion.

Indonesia's Q1 investment tops target, jobs rise

Indonesia's first-quarter investment realisation exceeded targets with a 7.22 percent year-on-year increase, generating 706,569 jobs—a 18.93 percent rise from the previous year. Domestic and foreign investments were nearly balanced, with Singapore leading foreign contributions at US$4.6 billion, followed by Hong Kong, China, the US, and Japan, focusing on sectors like basic metals, mining, and infrastructure. This performance highlights the government's strategy to drive economic transformation and job creation through enhanced capital inflows and policy continuity, aiming for over Rp13,000 trillion in investments from 2025 to 2029.

Ombudsman ensures smooth Hajj services for inaugural 2026 flight group

The Indonesian Ombudsman has monitored the departure of the first Hajj flight group for 2026 from Pondok Gede embarkation point in East Jakarta, confirming that services related to health, facilities, and other rights were satisfactory with no issues reported. This oversight is part of the Ombudsman's mandate to supervise public services in the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah's organisation of the pilgrimage. The initiative underscores efforts to ensure a seamless Hajj experience for pilgrims, promoting health and successful completion of their religious duties.

Ineu Purwadewi Calls for Central-Regional Collaboration to Prioritise West Java's Development

At the Musrenbang forum in West Java, priorities for 2027 development were set on infrastructure, education, and health to drive economic growth and meet basic needs. PDIP faction chair Ineu Purwadewi Sundari emphasised the need for collaboration between central, provincial, and local governments to avoid programme overlaps and budget inefficiencies, praising the governor's cost-sharing initiatives. She also highlighted efforts to boost the Human Development Index through targeted programmes addressing education, health, and poverty reduction.

Hajj Dormitory Jakarta's 'Ajag-Ijig' Vehicle Assists Elderly and Disabled Pilgrims

The Hajj Organising Committee at the Pondok Gede Hajj Dormitory in East Jakarta has deployed special 'Ajag-Ijig' vehicles to facilitate the mobility of elderly and disabled pilgrims, particularly for the third flight group from West Jakarta comprising 83 elderly and three special needs individuals. Additional measures include fast-track services, reserved wheelchairs, priority seating, and restricted access for accompanying families to ensure comfort and security across the 16-hectare facility. These initiatives, part of broader government-supported Hajj preparations, underscore Indonesia's commitment to inclusive religious travel, with final health checks determining departure eligibility for the flight scheduled on 23 April.

Domestic Workers Protection Bill Regulates Social Security, Training, Wages, and Holiday Allowances for Domestic Workers

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR RI) has approved the Domestic Workers Protection Bill (RUU PPRT) after nearly 20 years of deliberation, officially recognising domestic workers (PRT) as protected labourers entitled to rights against discrimination, exploitation, and violence. The legislation, comprising 37 articles across 12 chapters, mandates social security coverage for health and employment, vocational training for skill development, minimum age of 18 for recruitment through licensed agencies, and fair wages including religious holiday allowances (THR). This landmark law, effective with implementing regulations due within one year, addresses longstanding issues of abuse and wage uncertainties, marking a significant step towards upholding human rights and welfare for millions of domestic workers in Indonesia.

Most Tolerant City 2025 According to Setara: Salatiga Tops the List, Bekasi Ranks Fifth

The Setara Institute has released its 2025 Tolerant City Index, with Salatiga in Central Java topping the rankings at 6.492, followed by Singkawang in West Kalimantan at 6.391, highlighting strong local governance and social efforts in promoting religious tolerance across 94 Indonesian cities. The index evaluates cities based on government regulations, social regulations, governmental actions, and religious demographics, emphasising collective achievements involving local leaders, bureaucracy, and communities. Interior Minister Tito Karnavian's representative urged high-scoring cities not to rest on their laurels, viewing the index as motivation for ongoing improvements in tolerance.

Immigration Affirms Strengthening of Oversight for the 2026 Hajj Implementation

Indonesia's Directorate General of Immigration has intensified surveillance at embarkation airports to prevent non-procedural Hajj departures and combat illegal practices, as part of a joint task force with the Ministries of Hajj and Umrah and the National Police. This includes deploying personnel and autogates at 14 major airports to handle the departure of approximately 221,000 pilgrims, with flagged individuals entered into a watchlist system to block alternative attempts. The measures aim to ensure safe, lawful, and dignified pilgrimages, urging the public to avoid illegal routes amid the first wave of departures starting on 22 April 2026.

Purbaya Removes Two Directors General, Ministry of Finance Now Has Three Vacant Positions

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed Febrio Nathan Kacaribu from the position of Director General of Economic and Fiscal Strategy and Luky Alfirman from Director General of Budgeting, effective 21 April 2026, leaving three key senior positions vacant in the Ministry of Finance. The third vacancy stems from Masyita Crystallin's reassignment to PT Danantara Investment Management, and Purbaya plans to select and propose candidates to President Prabowo Subianto by early or mid-May. This reshuffle, alongside the inauguration of five new echelon II officials, signals ongoing structural adjustments in the ministry under the new administration.

National Nutrition Agency Closes MBG Kitchen After 49 MTs Students Poisoned in Cilegon

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has shut down a kitchen under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Cilegon following a food poisoning incident that affected 49 students from MTs Al Inayah. Officials are conducting a thorough evaluation of the kitchen's layout and processes, emphasising daily food sampling for laboratory testing and a strict rule against cooking before 2 a.m. to prevent spoilage. Police are investigating the matter, with symptoms among the students ranging from nausea to dizziness, highlighting potential risks in the government's school nutrition initiative.

COCO Prepares Rights Issue of 10.67 Billion New Shares, Existing Investors Face Potential Dilution of Up to 75%

PT Wahana Interfood Nusantara Tbk (COCO), a cocoa and chocolate producer, has announced its third rights issue, planning to issue up to 10.67 billion new shares and warrants, which could dilute existing shareholders' stakes by as much as 75% if they do not participate. The proceeds, primarily allocated for business expansion and potential acquisitions in the confectionery and snack sectors, come amid the company's reported net sales growth to Rp165.08 billion in 2025 but deepening losses of Rp250.86 billion. This corporate action underscores COCO's strategy to bolster its operations in the food industry while highlighting the risks for non-participating investors in a competitive market.

Transport Authority Cracks Down on Illegal Parking in Front of North Jakarta District Court, Vehicles Towed and Tyres Deflated

The North Jakarta Transport Sub-Department has taken action against illegal parking on pavements and roads in front of the North Jakarta District Court in Tanjung Priok, towing eight motorcycles and five cars while deflating tyres on additional vehicles due to limited towing capacity. This enforcement follows community reports and is based on DKI Jakarta's Regional Regulation No. 5 of 2014, with vehicle owners facing statements and fines from traffic police. The authority plans to coordinate with the court to prevent future occurrences, highlighting efforts to maintain orderly public spaces around judicial institutions.

On US Warship in Malacca Strait, Foreign Minister: Normal, Regional Patrol

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono has downplayed the presence of the US warship USS Miguel Keith in the Malacca Strait, describing it as a routine Freedom of Navigation Patrol in the region. Indonesian Navy officials confirmed the vessel's transit passage in accordance with UNCLOS provisions, amid international reports of expanded US operations targeting Iranian-linked tankers in the Indo-Pacific. This incident underscores ongoing maritime security dynamics in strategically vital sea lanes connecting the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

IYCTC Research: Thousands of Students in North Lombok Exposed to Cheap Cigarette Advertisements

A study by the Indonesian Youth Council for Tactical Change (IYCTC) has revealed that thousands of students in North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, are daily exposed to manipulative cigarette advertisements, with 354 outdoor ads located within a prohibited 500-metre radius of schools, often featuring bright colours and fruit flavours appealing to children. Local authorities have implemented regulations like the 2025 Regent's Decree on Smoke-Free Areas to address the issue, amid alarming statistics showing 7.4% prevalence of smoking among children aged 10-18 and a 35% active smoker rate in NTB, highlighting the urgent need for stricter enforcement to protect public health. The findings underscore a systematic targeting of youth by the tobacco industry, prompting calls for enhanced youth involvement in monitoring and compliance to create safer environments.

Indonesia's Defence Spending Plans Amid Economic Uncertainty

Indonesia's defence modernisation efforts face significant challenges due to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific, which have disrupted global economic projections and strained fiscal capacities. With US$34.8 billion in foreign loans allocated to the Ministry of Defence for 2025-2029, the government must navigate bureaucratic compliance, fiscal sustainability, and prioritisation to ensure effective procurement without exacerbating budget deficits. This situation underscores the need for balanced defence spending to maintain national security amid a prolonged global economic recovery.

Ahead of May Day, Metro Jaya Police Hold Dialogue to Absorb Workers' Aspirations

The Metro Jaya Regional Police (Polda Metro Jaya) organised a dialogue with labour unions and the Employment Desk ahead of next month's Labour Day to directly address workers' concerns. Kapolda Metro Jaya Irjen Asep Edi Suheri emphasised the strong existing relationship between police and workers, pledging police support as facilitators and mediators to maintain conducive industrial relations amid global challenges. The event, attended by key figures including labour confederation leaders and government representatives, underscores a collective commitment to improving worker welfare and creating safe, harmonious work environments.

Breaking News! Purbaya Replaces 2 Directors General at the Ministry of Finance

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has initiated a reshuffle of senior officials at the Ministry of Finance, removing Febrio Nathan Kacaribu from his role as Director General of Economic and Fiscal Strategy and Luky Alfirman from the position of Director General of Budget. Acting heads have been appointed immediately, while the former officials await new assignments, and permanent replacements require presidential approval from Prabowo Subianto, potentially in early or mid-May. This move signals ongoing adjustments in key fiscal leadership amid the new administration's priorities.

Give Up, Mr. Trump! China Truly Cannot Be Defeated

Despite US tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, China's exports have demonstrated remarkable resilience, growing 14.7% in the first quarter of 2026 and achieving a record trade surplus of $1.2 trillion in 2025. This strength stems from market diversification, increased product complexity, and a surge in global demand for technology components, allowing China to adapt and thrive amid trade wars. While facing new pressures from external conflicts and protectionist policies in regions like the EU, China's export machine continues to bolster its economy, contributing significantly to growth without heavy reliance on domestic stimulus.

Indonesia Becomes ASEAN's Central Hub for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control through ACCTHPC

Indonesia has inaugurated the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control (ACCTHPC) in Jakarta, solidifying its role as the regional coordinator for managing cross-border haze pollution. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq highlighted that the centre, designated in 2016 and officially ratified in 2023, stems from ASEAN's response to the severe 1997-1998 forest fires. The initiative involves drafting protocols for ratification by member states and promoting coordinated haze control plans across the region to mitigate environmental and societal impacts.

Foreign Minister Assures Indonesia's Oil Supply is Secure: Not All Supplies Pass Through the Strait of Hormuz

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono has reassured the public that the country's energy supply, including fuel oil, remains secure despite two Pertamina vessels carrying approximately 2 million barrels of crude oil being held in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasising that not all supplies route through this strait. He highlighted alternative sources such as Russia and Pertamina's oil fields in other countries, while the Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia confirmed that subsidised fuel prices will not rise until the end of 2026, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's directives. This stability underscores the government's proactive approach to maintaining national energy security amid global disruptions.

Celebrating Kartini Day, Cilegon Women's Organisation Promotes Women's Empowerment

The Cilegon branch of the Women's Organisations Union (GOW) marked Kartini Day with an event on women's empowerment and development, featuring sessions on cyber crime awareness, skincare education for women over 30, a Kartini-themed competition, and a makeup demonstration. GOW Chair Nur Kusuma Ngarasati urged participants to embrace Raden Ajeng Kartini's message of emerging from darkness into light, emphasising digital literacy and protection in the modern era. Cilegon's Head of the Women's Empowerment, Child Protection, and Family Planning Agency, Lendy Delyanto, highlighted 2026 as a pivotal year for strengthening women's roles in economic and social development, reaffirming the local government's commitment to fostering independence and innovation among women.

Dony Oskaria Stresses Rice Self-Sufficiency is Not Mere Rhetoric: Bulog Lacks Storage Space!

Dony Oskaria, Head of the State-Owned Enterprises Executive Agency, has firmly asserted that Indonesia's rice self-sufficiency is a tangible reality rather than empty talk, citing Bulog's need for an additional Rp39 trillion injection to purchase farmers' harvests amid overflowing stocks. He highlighted ongoing efforts by the government and state enterprises, including new paddy field development, irrigation improvements, fertiliser price reductions, and restrictions on farmland conversion, all under President Prabowo's direction to ensure long-term food security. This initiative forms a key pillar of broader economic transformation, aiming for equitable growth that benefits farmers and safeguards future generations.

Purbaya confirms dismissal of two director generals at Finance Ministry

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed the dismissal of Febrio Nathan Kacaribu as Director General of Economic and Fiscal Strategy and Luky Alfirman as Director General of Budget, effective from 21 April, with acting heads appointed immediately. The position of Director General of Financial Sector Stability and Development is also vacant following Masyita Crystallin's move to PT Danantara Investment Management. Purbaya plans to select candidates for all three key echelon I positions and submit them simultaneously to President Prabowo Subianto for approval in early or mid-May.

Lawyer hopes judge will deliver fair verdict for former Pertamina Director

The lawyer for former Pertamina Director Hari Karyuliarto has expressed hope that the Corruption Court panel at Central Jakarta District Court will issue a fair and wise ruling in the ongoing corruption case involving LNG procurement. She argues that the prosecution's allegations against her client, who merely signed a 2014 sales agreement that was later cancelled, have not been proven, and any subsequent losses are unrelated to his actions post-retirement. The case, which allegedly caused state losses of Rp1.77 trillion, also involves former Vice President Yenni Andayani, with both facing lengthy prison sentences and fines.

Indonesia's Economic Resilience and the Homework That Needs to Be Completed

Indonesia's economy has demonstrated notable resilience amid global uncertainties, achieving 5.11% growth in 2025 and maintaining inflation at 2.61% by December, supported by substantial foreign reserves of USD152.1 billion and optimistic consumer confidence indices. International bodies like the IMF and World Bank project continued growth around 5.1-5.2% for 2026, underscoring the nation's stability. However, household-level pressures, particularly in food and housing costs, persist, highlighting the need for policies that translate macroeconomic gains into tangible relief for everyday consumers.

Cultural Cooperation with South Korea: Prabowo Requests More K-Pop Concerts in Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has requested an increase in K-Pop concerts in Indonesia as part of cultural cooperation discussions with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. Foreign Minister Sugiono highlighted Prabowo's aim to cater to the large fanbase in Indonesia, noting the involvement of Indonesian nationals in K-Pop groups abroad. This initiative underscores efforts to foster bilateral ties that directly benefit the Indonesian public through enhanced cultural exchanges.

Reporting to Prabowo, Luhut: Indonesia's Economy Secure and Stable for the Next Three Months

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Chairman of the National Economic Council, briefed President Prabowo Subianto on the robust fundamentals of Indonesia's economy, projecting stability for the next three months despite global geopolitical uncertainties. The government has prepared mitigation strategies, including fiscal discipline to keep the budget deficit below 3% of GDP, supply chain safeguards for key commodities, and accelerated deregulation to support business growth. Additionally, opportunities in digital government transformation and the Indonesia Financial Center initiative are being pursued to capitalise on shifting global capital flows.

Indonesian Air Force Strengthens Defence Cooperation with Singapore Air Force

The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) has agreed to enhance military cooperation with the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) following a meeting between Chief of Staff TNI AU Marshal Mohamad Tonny Harjono and RSAF's Chief of Staff-Air Staff Brigadier General Ho Kum Luen in Jakarta. Discussions focused on joint combat training, soldier education, human resource development in warfare technology, disaster response, and humanitarian operations. This partnership is expected to bolster air defence capabilities for both nations in the region.

Maulana's Story: Joining the Komcad Military Training for Civil Servants Despite Initial Wife's Disapproval

Suherlan Maulana, a civil servant from the Ministry of Social Affairs, overcame initial family resistance, particularly from his wife, to participate in the 1.5-month Basic Military Training for Reserve Components (Latsarmil Komcad), aimed at 1,773 selected civil servants from various ministries. The programme, starting on 22 April 2026 across six locations, seeks to enhance discipline and readiness for national service among participants under 35 years old. This initiative highlights the Indonesian government's push to integrate civil servants into the reserve military framework, fostering a more prepared public sector workforce.

Sugiono Reveals the Intensity of Negotiations to Secure Passage for Two Pertamina Ships through Hormuz

Foreign Minister Sugiono detailed the challenging negotiations led by Indonesia's embassy in Tehran and Pertamina's team to allow two Pertamina International Shipping vessels, Pertamina Pride and Gamsunoro, to pass through the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions involving a US blockade and Iranian controls. He highlighted international virtual meetings initiated by France and the UK, where nations rejected any levies on transiting ships as violations of freedom of navigation, and discussed proposals for peaceful military escorts to ensure safe passage for various products beyond oil. Despite the delay of these tankers carrying around 2 million barrels of crude, Sugiono assured that Indonesia's fuel stocks remain secure, with the volume being minor relative to national energy needs, bolstered by diversified supplies from countries like Russia and the US.

Riau Police Chief Issues Stern Warning to Personnel: No Compromise on Drugs

Riau Police Chief Irjen Pol Herry Heryawan has issued a strong warning to his personnel, emphasising zero tolerance for drug abuse within the ranks of the Indonesian National Police. Speaking at a briefing on adaptive policing strategies amid economic uncertainties, he called for collaborative efforts from law enforcement, local government, and communities to combat drugs from prevention at the source to enforcement downstream, aiming to protect the nation's youth for the Golden Generation of 2045. Polda Riau has initiated anti-drug resilient villages in five areas and arrested over 3,000 suspects since 2025, underscoring ongoing commitment to public safety and law enforcement.

Luhut Reports DEN Simulation Results to Prabowo: Indonesia's Economy Stable for Next Three Months

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Chairman of the National Economic Council (DEN), has informed President Prabowo Subianto that simulations indicate Indonesia's economy will remain stable over the next three months, underpinned by strong fundamentals. The government is preparing anticipatory policy scenarios to mitigate prolonged geopolitical tensions, focusing on energy price fluctuations, supply chain security for strategic commodities like sulphur, and maintaining fiscal health with a deficit below 3% of GDP. Additionally, efforts include accelerating deregulation, digital government transformation, and advancing the Indonesia Financial Center to capitalise on global capital shifts.

BPS Klungkung Delays Beautiful Village Programme to Nusa Penida, Here's the Reason

The Central Statistics Agency (BPS) in Klungkung has postponed the Beautiful Statistics Village (Desa Cantik) programme for Nusa Penida until 2027 to first establish successful prototypes on the mainland. Head of BPS Klungkung, Anak Agung Gede Dirga Kardita, explained that the initiative aims to empower villages to manage and present data independently for better development planning, with challenging terrain and resource limitations cited as secondary factors. Klungkung Regent I Made Satria emphasised the critical role of accurate data in policy-making and urged expansion to all villages, including Nusa Penida, to ensure targeted development.

Latest MSCI Announcement Puts Investors on Alert, Spotlight on This Issue

The latest MSCI announcement has prompted caution among investors in Indonesia's capital market, as it imposes temporary restrictions on index changes without adding new stocks or increasing weights, amid ongoing concerns over free float and transparency. Foreign investors are adopting a wait-and-see approach due to liquidity and governance issues, potentially leading to selling pressure on certain stocks and a weakening of the JCI index, while domestic investors view it as an opportunity. MSCI's decision to remove securities under the new High Shareholding Concentration framework, such as BREN and DSSA, is projected to trigger around Rp25.5 trillion in passive fund liquidations, impacting market equilibrium.

Regency Builds Protective Embankment on Panggang Island to Prevent Erosion

The Thousand Islands Regency's Water Resources Sub-Department is constructing a protective embankment along Cikaya Beach on Karya Island, Panggang Sub-District, to combat coastal erosion and safeguard the shoreline from sea waves. This initiative, extending 65 metres this year following 100 metres completed previously, utilises sturdy concrete cubes arranged in a 3:2 formation and is being built manually by a team of 10 personnel, with completion targeted for next week. Local residents and officials anticipate that the structure will enhance safety for communities and boost tourism potential in the area by providing long-term protection to the coastal zone.

These 58 Unitlink Products and 28 Insurance CEOs Are the Best for 2026 According to Media Asuransi - Stability

Media Asuransi presented the Unitlink Award 2026 to 58 top-performing unitlink products from 21 life insurance companies, selected from 468 products based on strict criteria including market tenure, stability, and regulatory compliance. The inaugural CEO Award 2026 recognised 28 insurance and reinsurance leaders for their dedication in driving business success, with awards tied to 2025 insurance achievements and financial performance in 2024. This event underscores the resilience of unitlink products amid shifting consumer preferences and aims to inspire industry growth for better services to Indonesians.

Corruption Case Involving Inactive Regent of Rejang Lebong: KPK Summons Deputy Chairman of DPD PAN

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned the Deputy Chairman of the DPD PAN in Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu, as a witness in the ongoing bribery case against inactive Regent Muhammad Fikri Thobari. This follows the arrest of Thobari, his deputy Hendri, and several others in March 2026 during a sting operation related to bribes for public works projects in the district. The case highlights alleged demands for 10-15% kickbacks from private contractors, potentially used for personal gains including holiday allowances, underscoring persistent corruption issues in local government procurement.

Pertamina AFT Hang Nadim Batam Ensures Safe Avtur Stock for Up to 42 Days

Pertamina's Aviation Fuel Terminal (AFT) at Hang Nadim in Batam, Riau Islands, has confirmed that its avtur (aviation turbine fuel) stock is secure for approximately 42 days, covering both regular flights and those for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. The terminal, operating 24/7 with full support from human resources and infrastructure, routinely replenishes stocks to maintain supply continuity amid global energy dynamics, serving an average of 42 daily flights and preparing 6,000 kilolitres of avtur for Hajj operations in two phases. This preparation extends support to Hajj flights transiting from regions like Pontianak, Jambi, and Pekanbaru, ensuring smooth and safe operations for departing pilgrims.

BI Rate Held at 4.75% for Seventh Consecutive Month, Here's Why!

Bank Indonesia's Board of Governors has decided to maintain the BI Rate at 4.75% for the seventh straight month in April 2026, aiming to bolster rupiah stability amid the Middle East conflict. Governor Perry Warjiyo emphasised the central bank's commitment to preserving currency stability and keeping inflation within the 2.5% ±1% target. This consistent policy underscores BI's proactive stance in navigating global economic pressures affecting Indonesia's financial landscape.

Unhas Rector: No Increase in Tuition Fees for 2026

The Rector of Hasanuddin University (Unhas), Prof Jamaluddin Jompa, has assured students and parents that there will be no increase in the Single Tuition Fee (UKT) for 2026, in response to the ongoing socio-economic challenges faced by the community. Despite this, the university will compensate for the Single Education Cost (BKT) through alternative funding sources, including its business entities, to maintain educational quality as a Public University with Legal Entity status. Prof Jompa emphasised his commitment to ensuring no student drops out due to financial reasons, underscoring the institution's dedication to accessibility in higher education.

To Strengthen Exchange Rate Stabilisation, BI-Rate Remains at 4.75 Percent in April

Bank Indonesia has decided to maintain its benchmark interest rate, the BI-Rate, at 4.75 percent following the April 2026 Board of Governors Meeting, alongside keeping the deposit facility rate at 3.75 percent and the lending facility rate at 5.50 percent. This decision aims to enhance the effectiveness of monetary policy adjustments in stabilising the rupiah amid deteriorating global economic conditions due to the Middle East conflict. Governor Perry Warjiyo affirmed that the central bank is prepared to further tighten monetary policy if necessary to safeguard exchange rate stability and keep inflation within the 2.5 ± 1 percent target for 2026 and 2027.

Imported Australian Cattle Prices Jump 40% Above Cap

Imported Australian feeder cattle prices have surged to Rp 81,658 per kg, 40% above Indonesia's official benchmark of Rp 56,000–58,000 per kg, driven by higher FOB prices, freight, and insurance costs. This gap, amid a 30–40% domestic supply shortfall filled entirely by Australian imports, threatens beef inflation in Greater Jakarta and other import-reliant areas, while the Agriculture Ministry highlights structural issues in local production dominated by smallholders. Officials are reviewing the price cap to prevent shortages, as suppressing prices could deter importers, and are pushing for enhanced farmer training and investment in breeding programs to boost self-sufficiency.

Terra Drone Boss Claims He Was Not Informed by Building Owner About Expired SLF

In a Jakarta court hearing, Michael Wishnu Wardana, CEO of PT Terra Drone, testified that he was unaware the building's Sertifikat Laik Fungsi (SLF) had expired since 2020 when signing the lease agreement in 2023, as the owner, Nyauw Gunarto, provided no such information. Wardana recounted that post-signing inspections with his employee and a property agent revealed the absence of critical fire safety features like alarms, sprinklers, and speakers, which they verbally requested to be addressed. The owner's denial of these claims highlights ongoing disputes in the trial over the Terra Drone office fire, underscoring lapses in building safety compliance and legal accountability.