Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 April 2026

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DKI Provincial Government Supports Women's Dual Roles

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, through its Department of Child Empowerment, Protection, and Population Control, has reaffirmed its support for women's dual roles in both careers and family caregiving by providing facilities such as lactation rooms and daycare centres. This initiative aims to create a supportive ecosystem that enables women to balance professional and domestic responsibilities without being forced to choose between them, including gender-responsive policies like flexible working hours and involvement in development processes. Additionally, the government offers economic empowerment programmes, community capacity building, and support for vulnerable groups to promote women's independence and equality.

Minister of Manpower: Expanding Vocational Training Access to Create Competent Human Resources

Indonesia's Minister of Manpower, Yassierli, has stressed the need to broaden access to vocational training through the Ministry's training centres to develop a competent workforce. The government is promoting the National Vocational Training Programme, which in its first phase trained 10,405 participants across various centres, offering courses in fields like refrigeration, IT, tourism, construction, automotive, welding, electricity, and sewing. Yassierli urged collaboration with industries to align training with market needs, aiming to enhance employment opportunities and support skilled labour demands in key sectors.

Foreign Minister Assures Secure Energy Supply Despite Pertamina Ships Detained in Hormuz

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono has reassured the public that the country's energy supply remains stable, even with two Pertamina vessels detained in the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasised that not all supplies pass through the strait and that the impacted volume is minor compared to national needs, while highlighting alternative sources from Russia and the United States. This statement aims to provide a proportional perspective on the issue without downplaying the detention.

China Withstands Global Fertiliser Price Volatility Thanks to Coal

China's fertiliser sector remains stable amid early 2026 global market turmoil, driven by its heavy reliance on abundant domestic coal for urea production, unlike gas-dependent producers such as Russia and Qatar. This structure, combined with a projected record output of 76.5 million tonnes and new facilities adding 4.9 million tonnes of capacity, shields the country from supply disruptions via the Strait of Hormuz and keeps domestic prices at 255-267 USD per tonne. By restricting exports, Beijing prioritises internal price stability during planting seasons, highlighting how energy strategies can bolster agricultural resilience against international shocks.

Corruption Inmate Transferred to Nusakambangan Prison After Going Viral for Stopping at Coffee Shop

Indonesian Minister of Immigration and Correctional Services Agus Andrianto has ordered the transfer of corruption convict Supriadi to the maximum-security prison in Nusakambangan following an incident where he was spotted at a coffee shop in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, during a court session. The minister also disciplined the correctional officers involved for negligence, as escorting inmates is not their duty, and is preparing a circular to mandate police handling such responsibilities in the future. This action underscores efforts to tighten oversight on high-profile inmates and prevent similar lapses in the correctional system.

Coordinating Minister Zulhas: Rise in Minyakita Price Triggered by Absorption into Food Assistance Programme

Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan has attributed the recent price increase of affordable cooking oil Minyakita to its significant absorption into the government's food assistance programme, which has reduced supplies in traditional markets. To address this, the government plans to diversify the brands used for aid distribution while maintaining the same price and redirect primary Minyakita supplies back to traditional markets through state-owned enterprises like Bulog. The highest retail price for Minyakita remains unchanged, with any proposed adjustments under review by relevant agencies.

Kartini Day Moment: Deputy Minister of Human Rights Discusses the Crucial Role of Education for Women

On the 147th anniversary of Kartini Day, Deputy Minister of Human Rights Mugiyanto emphasised the vital role of education in empowering Indonesian women, echoing R.A. Kartini's historical struggle for equal access to learning as a pathway to equality and leadership. He highlighted recent progress, with female high school dropout rates at just 2.14% in 2025 per BPS data, though challenges persist in remote and impoverished areas due to poverty and child marriages. Mugiyanto urged continued efforts to guarantee education as a fundamental right, preventing discrimination and enabling women to dream, achieve, and lead across sectors.

Police Raid Warehouse of Illegal Chinese Phones, Seize 76,756 iPhone and Android Units

Indonesian police have raided a warehouse in Sidoarjo, East Java, operated by PT TSL, uncovering a syndicate importing illegal smartphones from China and seizing 76,756 units worth Rp235.08 billion, predominantly iPhones. The operation involved classic customs crimes like under-invoicing and undeclared goods, leading to the arrest of two suspects: an importer dealing in used, uncertified devices and a distributor. This crackdown underscores Polri's commitment to curbing smuggling that undermines national revenue and economic resilience.

Abundant Supply, Kepri Governor: National Nutrition Agency Allows Fish for MBG Menu

The Governor of Riau Islands Province, Ansar Ahmad, has welcomed the National Nutrition Agency's approval to include fish in the Free Nutritious Meal Programme (MBG) menus for children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers, citing the region's abundant seafood resources. This decision aims to support local fisheries by integrating them into the supply chain for nutrition service units and promote child brain development through high-protein fish options like mackerel or processed fillets. The MBG programme in Kepri employs 9,601 local workers across 223 units in seven districts/cities, enhancing both nutrition and economic opportunities.

Tax Office Plans to Tax Toll Roads and the Wealthy, Purbaya: I'll Sort It Out Later

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) is planning to impose Value Added Tax (VAT) on toll road services and high-wealth individuals as part of its 2025-2029 strategic plan. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stated he was unaware of the proposal and assured that no new taxes would be introduced without prior analysis by the Directorate General of Economic and Fiscal Strategy (DJSEF) and significant improvements in economic conditions, such as reaching near 6% growth. This commitment aims to avoid disrupting the economy, with regulations targeted for completion by 2028 to ensure fairer taxation.

Coordinating Minister AHY Emphasises the Role of Railways in Reducing Emissions and Improving Logistics Efficiency

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) highlighted the strategic importance of railways in curbing carbon emissions and enhancing national logistics efficiency to support sustainable economic growth. During a coordination meeting on the National Railway Network Development in Jakarta, AHY noted that railways contribute only 0.6% to Indonesia's greenhouse gas emissions, far lower than the 89% from road transport, and pointed out significant budget disparities, with road infrastructure receiving Rp86.9 trillion in 2023 compared to just Rp6.5 trillion for railway infrastructure. This emphasis underscores the need for more balanced investment in transport modes to promote environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

Will To Lam Transform Vietnam into China?

To Lam, leader of Vietnam's Communist Party, has been officially elected president, marking a shift from the traditional "four pillars" system that distributed power among multiple leaders to prevent excessive concentration in one individual, now resembling China's model under Xi Jinping. This change raises concerns over diminished checks and balances, increased surveillance through AI cameras and data centralisation, and further restrictions on freedom of expression, as evidenced by Vietnam's low press freedom ranking and new national firewall initiatives. While To Lam's recent visit to China underscores strengthening bilateral ties in security and socialist ideology, experts note Vietnam's authoritarianism remains less repressive than China's, posing unique challenges for the new president's rule.

Victim Advocate Recounts the Atrocities of the May 1998 Mass Rape Incident

Ita Fatia Nadia, an advocate for victims of the May 1998 mass rapes, shared harrowing accounts of young girls and women brutalised during the anti-Chinese riots, including an 11-year-old who died from her injuries and a 13-year-old coerced into suicide by her family. She condemned the denial of these events by figures like Fadli Zon and the state's historical impunity, linking it to broader patterns of state-sponsored violence against women, such as those accused in the 1965 Gerwani cases. Activists are pushing for accountability through legal challenges and demands for apologies, highlighting the ongoing fight against the negation of women's bodies as political terror tools in Indonesia.

East Jakarta Health Service highlights chronic disease risks from consuming plecostomus fish

The East Jakarta Health Service has warned residents about the long-term health risks associated with consuming plecostomus fish, which may contain dangerous heavy metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium, potentially leading to serious conditions like neurological damage, cancer, and organ failure. Officials emphasise that while immediate effects may not be apparent, continuous exposure could trigger degenerative diseases, and no safe processing method fully eliminates these contaminants. In response, the Jakarta Provincial Government is intensifying efforts to capture and remove the invasive species from local waterways to protect public health and maintain ecological balance, with recent operations in East Jakarta yielding over 1.8 tonnes of the fish.

Controlled Distribution Keeps Food Prices Stable Despite Rise in Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices

The National Food Agency (Bapanas) has assured that controlled distribution is maintaining national food price stability amid the increase in non-subsidised fuel prices, with no adjustments to transport tariffs as long as subsidised fuel remains unchanged. Data shows minimal fluctuations in key commodities like rice, garlic, and chillies, though red cayenne peppers remain elevated due to weather-related supply issues but are trending downward. The government is reinforcing supply through market operations, food aid, and state-owned enterprise distribution to prevent profiteering amid global geopolitical tensions.

Brebes Residents' Halal Bihalal in Jakarta Discusses Poverty and Regional Development

The Majelis Silaturahmi Warga Brebes (Masigab) held a halal bihalal event in Jakarta, attended by Brebes natives living in the capital and prominent figures from government, legislature, academia, and business, focusing on motivating expatriates and addressing persistent poverty in Brebes, which remains high in Central Java. Discussions highlighted empowering agriculture to alleviate poverty, with cultural figure Atmo Tan Sidik praising plans for large-scale dairy farming investment and citing Gunungkidul's success in utilising CSR funds for farmers and livestock breeders. Brebes Regent Paramitha Widya Kusuma emphasised the crucial role of Brebes diaspora in supporting regional development programmes, underscoring community involvement across professions.

Latest Fuel Price List as of 18 April 2026 at Petrol Stations Across Indonesia, Several Fuel Types Increase

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has announced the latest fuel prices effective from 18 April 2026 at petrol stations throughout Indonesia, with adjustments to three non-subsidised fuel types: Dexlite, Pertamax Turbo, and Pertamina Dex. In the Jakarta area, prices have risen, though variations may occur across regions due to differences in motor vehicle fuel tax and distribution costs. This adjustment reflects ongoing efforts to align domestic fuel pricing with global market fluctuations, impacting consumers reliant on non-subsidised options.

KKP and Kolaka Certify Six Small Islands to Boost Tourism Investment

The Directorate of Coastal Areas and Small Islands under Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), in collaboration with the Kolaka Regency Government in Southeast Sulawesi, is certifying six small islands to strengthen the legal status of state assets and facilitate investment in marine tourism. The islands, which are uninhabited and classified as Other Use Areas (APL), include Pulau Lambasina Kecil (56.98 hectares), Pulau Buaya (51.67 hectares), Pulau Laburoko (26.09 hectares), Pulau Kukusan (22.94 hectares), Pulau Lemo (21.80 hectares), and Pulau Pisang (4.12 hectares). This initiative aims to enable measured and lawful utilisation of these islands by businesses, with field measurements and mapping scheduled from 23 to 25 April.

Pertamina Expands Women's Healthcare Access by Donating Mammography Mobile Unit to YKPI

PT Pertamina has donated a mobile mammography unit to the Indonesian Breast Cancer Foundation (YKPI) to enhance early detection of breast cancer among women, particularly in underserved areas, coinciding with Kartini Day celebrations. This initiative, the second such vehicle provided by the company since 2014, features disability-friendly facilities and supports the PinkCheck programme aiming to screen 1,000 women through mobile services and self-examination education. The move underscores Pertamina's commitment to women's health and empowerment, highlighting the importance of routine mammography for women over 40 to enable early intervention in a disease that often shows no early symptoms.

Earth Day: Situbondo Civil Servants and Residents Plant 20,000 Tree Seedlings

On Earth Day 2026, civil servants from the Situbondo Regency Government in East Java, along with community groups and students, planted 20,000 tree seedlings across various locations vulnerable to floods and landslides. Regent Yusuf Rio Wahyu Prayogo highlighted the initiative as a key effort in environmental conservation and disaster mitigation, emphasising the need to prevent deforestation that exacerbates flooding in the area. The ongoing tree-planting campaign underscores a commitment to ecological balance and sustainable resource management, with plans for follow-up replanting in collaboration with local forestry authorities.

Jakarta Administrative Court Ruling on Denial of 1998 May Rape Perpetuates Impunity for Officials

The Jakarta Administrative Court has dismissed a lawsuit challenging Fadli Zon's denial of the mass rapes during the May 1998 riots, citing procedural grounds and lack of jurisdiction, a decision strongly condemned by activists as a setback that entrenches impunity and ignores substantial evidence. KontraS activist Virdinda La Ode Achmad highlighted the panel's failure to address 95 pieces of evidence and expert testimonies presented over six months, while LBH Jakarta's Daniel Winarta argued the ruling contravenes current administrative laws and prioritises form over substantive justice. TGPF Chairman Marzuki Darusman reaffirmed the verified findings of mass rapes against ethnic Chinese women, underscoring the state's historical acknowledgment under President Habibie and the need to counter ongoing denials to honour victims' rights.

Warm and Simple: Interior Minister's Lunch Moment with IPDN Cadets

Interior Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian shared a simple yet warm lunch with IPDN cadets in Aceh Tamiang, Aceh, who are assisting in post-disaster recovery efforts following floods. The cadets, part of the third wave of 731 trainees, have been cleaning mud from offices and residential areas, earning praise for their dedication and discipline without any violations. Coordinating Minister Pratikno urged them to continue their studies and service for national progress, highlighting government appreciation through communal meals and a special cattle sacrifice.

Ministry of Population and Family Development Introduces RA Kartini to Young Children through Tamasya Programme

The Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga)/BKKBN is introducing the values of RA Kartini's struggles to early childhood through the Taman Asuh Sayang Anak (Tamasya) programme, incorporating activities like colouring fans with her image to promote gender equality and empowerment. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's Gerakan Indonesia Aman, Sehat, Resik, dan Indah (ASRI) campaign, fostering environmental awareness and clean living habits from a young age within families. During a visit, young children presented handmade recycled crafts to Deputy Head Isyana, highlighting women's roles in public and family spheres.

Police seize truck in Indonesia's illegal phone import probe

Indonesian police have seized an expedition truck as part of an expanding investigation into illegal phone imports, targeting PT TSL, suspected of operating shell companies to smuggle devices through Juanda International Airport. The probe builds on a prior Jakarta operation where authorities confiscated over 56,000 iPhones, 1,600 Android phones, and various accessories valued at approximately Rp235.08 billion, along with non-compliant baby clothing and toys sold via e-commerce. Brigadier General Ade Safri Simanjuntak indicated that the Sidoarjo investigation continues, with potential for additional suspects, highlighting efforts to combat economic crimes and smuggling that cause significant state losses.

Deputy Minister of Hajj: Avoid Excessive Ceremonies for Hajj Pilgrims' Departure

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged local authorities to minimise and shorten farewell ceremonies for departing Hajj pilgrims to prevent fatigue, particularly among elderly, high-risk, and disabled individuals who need rest before their long journey. Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak emphasised that excessive events could impair pilgrims' fitness ahead of the pilgrimage to the Holy Land. This guidance coincides with the departure of the first batch of Indonesian pilgrims for the 1447 Hijriah/2026 CE Hajj mission from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

Sightings of McLaren to Porsche Cars to be Auctioned by Indonesia's Attorney General's Office

Indonesia's Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has launched the BPA FAIR 2026 auction, featuring over 400 luxury movable assets, including high-end sports cars like McLaren and Porsche, seized from corruption cases, with an estimated value exceeding Rp100 billion. The event, scheduled from 18-24 May 2026, aims to enhance transparency and public engagement by allowing direct inquiries and countering misinformation on social media. Partnering with state-owned banks Bank Mandiri, BSI, and BNI, the auction is open to the public under specified requirements, ensuring an accountable process for asset recovery.

Heavy Equipment Runs Out of Fuel, Dozens of Trucks Stranded at Mandung Landfill

Dozens of rubbish trucks are stranded at the entrance to the Mandung landfill in Tabanan Regency, Bali, due to heavy machinery halting operations from a shortage of Pertamina Dex fuel. The disruption, starting Tuesday afternoon, has prevented waste dumping, affecting local waste management services and forcing drivers to leave their vehicles overnight. Officials note this issue has occurred before but was quickly resolved once fuel supplies resumed, highlighting vulnerabilities in regional waste infrastructure reliant on non-subsidised diesel.

Politics: 70.77 percent of respondents satisfied with Prabowo's leadership

A survey by Index Politica conducted from 5-19 April 2026 reveals that 70.77 percent of respondents are satisfied with President Prabowo Subianto's leadership across economic, social, political, law enforcement, and defence and security sectors. While 25.63 percent expressed dissatisfaction and 3.6 percent declined to answer, the poll also identified top-performing ministers in the Merah Putih Cabinet, including Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin and Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin. This high approval rating underscores strong public confidence in Prabowo's administration early in his term, potentially bolstering his policy initiatives.

Blusukan at Klademak Fish Market in Sorong, Vice President Gibran Highlights Fishermen Empowerment

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming visited the Klademak Fish Market in Sorong, Southwest Papua, to assess fishing and trade activities, emphasising the strengthening of the maritime and fisheries sector as a key driver of the local economy in line with President Prabowo Subianto's directives. During the visit, he interacted with traders, purchased local produce and seafood, and addressed concerns about child labour and market facilities, while local officials highlighted needs for infrastructure improvements such as dock extensions, cold storage, and better trading spaces for indigenous Papuan vendors. The tour underscores the government's commitment to empowering fishermen, enhancing port and market infrastructure, and supporting small-scale businesses, particularly among native Papuans, to boost export capabilities and local livelihoods.

Why Economists Predict BI Will Hold Key Interest Rate at 4.75 Percent

Several economists anticipate that Bank Indonesia will maintain its key interest rate at 4.75 percent during the April 2026 Board of Governors Meeting, citing ongoing external pressures and heightened inflation risks from rising global energy prices. The rupiah is expected to remain under pressure in the short term, trading around Rp17,000 per US dollar, though potential strengthening could occur in the second half of the year if economic resilience, controlled inflation, and strong fiscal sustainability persist. This cautious stance aligns with global uncertainties, including US-Iran tensions and the Federal Reserve's wait-and-see approach, which could limit room for monetary easing and impact Indonesia's financial markets.

6 Pillars of Positive Mental Health According to Researchers, Not Just About Happiness!

A groundbreaking study involving experts from 11 disciplines has identified six core pillars defining positive mental health, emphasizing that it extends beyond the absence of mental disorders to include purpose in life and social connections. Led by Professor Lindsay Oades, the research highlights the importance of this shared definition for public policy, enabling governments to better measure national well-being, support health strategies, and fund interventions. The framework distinguishes between supportive conditions like income and housing, which act as drivers, and the actual elements of mental health, offering practical guidance for sectors such as education and workplaces while acknowledging cultural variations in perceptions of a good life.

Domestic Workers' Protection Act Passed, Unions Urge Government to Promptly Issue Implementing Regulations

The Indonesian Parliament has passed the Domestic Workers' Protection Act (UU PPRT) after 22 years of advocacy, marking a significant milestone for the rights of household workers on the occasion of Kartini Day. Labour unions, led by Konfederasi Serikat Nusantara, have welcomed the legislation but are pressing the government to swiftly issue technical implementing regulations to ensure its practical application, including oversight in private spaces and awareness campaigns. This move addresses longstanding challenges in protecting vulnerable workers, aligning with international standards like ILO Convention 189, and underscores the need for responsive government action to enforce workers' rights effectively.

Freehold vs Leasehold: The Essential Differences Between SHM and HGB Ownership Status

This article explains the key differences between freehold and leasehold property ownership in Indonesia, equating freehold to full ownership via Sertifikat Hak Milik (SHM) with no time limit, and leasehold to time-bound rights under Hak Guna Bangunan (HGB), typically 30 years extendable. Real estate expert Bambang Ekajaya highlights that while leasehold involves rental rights for a set period, both provide legal protections, and extensions are possible subject to fees and approvals. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for prospective buyers to assess long-term legal and practical implications in Indonesia's property market.

February 2026: Indonesia's Palm Oil Production Reaches 5.5 Million Tonnes, Exports 3.29 Million Tonnes

Indonesia's palm oil industry demonstrated robust performance in February 2026, with total production of crude palm oil (CPO) and palm kernel oil (PKO) rising to 5.495 million tonnes from 5.232 million tonnes in January, driven by increased output across key indicators. Domestic consumption also surged to 2.305 million tonnes, led by demand in the food and biodiesel sectors, while exports climbed to 3.29 million tonnes, contributing to a decline in national stocks that underscores strong market absorption. This growth highlights the sector's resilience and its critical role in supporting Indonesia's economy amid ongoing domestic and international demand.

Eastern and Central Europe Mobilise, Citizens Agree Israel Resembles Nazis

A recent UNESCO-backed study reveals widespread sentiment in Central and Eastern Europe equating Israel's actions towards Palestinians with Nazi treatment of Jews, with Poland showing the highest agreement at 45%. This comes amid growing public pressure, including a European Citizens' Initiative that has gathered over one million signatures to suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement, highlighting a widening gap between EU citizens' demands for upholding international law and the bloc's leadership policies on Palestine. The agreement, valued at US$50.2 billion in trade in 2024, includes human rights clauses that campaigners argue are being violated.

Rights of Heirs of Three Fallen TNI Soldiers in Lebanon Ensured to be Fulfilled

PT Asabri has confirmed that all rights and benefits for the heirs of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers who died during a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon—Major Inf Anumerta Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Serka Anumerta Muhammad Nur Ichwan, and Kopda Anumerta Farizal Rhomadhon—have been fully met, including a total compensation of Rp1.41 billion and ongoing education scholarships for their children. The state funeral ceremonies, attended by President Prabowo Subianto and Asabri representatives, underscored national commitment to supporting military families. This initiative highlights Indonesia's dedication to social welfare for personnel in defence and security, ensuring financial security and educational continuity for the bereaved families.

Arab States Demand Iran Pay Compensation for War Damages

Arab League member states have unanimously demanded that Iran pay full reparations for damages caused by its attacks on Jordan, the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Iraq during the ongoing Middle East conflict. The resolution, adopted via video conference under Bahrain's leadership, also condemns Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and threats to close the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, citing violations of international law and threats to global trade, energy security, and humanitarian supplies. This escalation follows Iran's counter-claims against Gulf states for alleged involvement in US-Israeli strikes, amid a fragile ceasefire extended unilaterally by US President Donald Trump, which Iranian officials have dismissed.

Yusril: Election Law Amendment Targeted for Completion in 2.5 Years of Prabowo's Administration

Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has set a target to finalise the revision of the General Elections Law within 2.5 years of President Prabowo Subianto's administration to allow sufficient preparation time for the 2029 elections. He emphasised the need to commence discussions by mid-2026 to avoid potential legal challenges at the Constitutional Court that could disrupt implementation. DPR members have identified 10 key issues for amendment, including electoral systems, thresholds, and digitalisation, underscoring the importance of a thorough and unhurried process to ensure a robust legal framework.

Completed in 37 Days, MBG Kitchen Project Worth Rp 507 Billion Reaches 100 Percent

The Ministry of Public Works and PT PP (Persero) Tbk have successfully completed the construction of 69 nutritious meal kitchen facilities across 15 Indonesian provinces in just 37 calendar days, achieving 100 percent progress on a Rp 507.80 billion contract. These facilities, part of the Free Nutritious Meals programme, aim to produce hygienic food to combat malnutrition, stunting, and improve children's learning outcomes. The project highlights innovative construction methods and is expected to boost local economies through job creation and support for SMEs and farmers.

Challenging US Giants BlackRock and Fidelity, Purbaya Brings Up China!

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa revealed strong interest from global investors like BlackRock and Fidelity in Indonesia's bond market during the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington DC. He challenged them to absorb Indonesian government bonds at low yields, citing China's willingness to purchase them at just 2.3%, compared to the current 10-year benchmark yield of 6.58%. This confidence stems from Indonesia's solid economic foundation and anticipated positive Q1-2026 growth data, signaling robust foreign investment inflows ahead.

Koster follows up on DPR-minister agreement for Bali infrastructure

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has followed up on the agreement between Commission V of the DPR RI and central government ministries to accelerate tourism infrastructure development in Bali. In meetings with the Ministers of Public Works, Transportation, and National Development Planning/Bappenas, commitments were made to prioritise projects proposed by the Bali provincial government, including the Jimbaran Badung underpass, parking building at Pura Ulun Danu Batur, Nusa Ceningan-Nusa Lembongan bridge, and others starting in 2026-2027. These initiatives aim to alleviate traffic congestion in key tourist areas, supporting Bali's vital tourism economy.

Pelindo Supports Acceleration of Waste-to-Energy Facilities for Sustainable Waste Solutions

PT Pelindo has joined the signing of the first-phase cooperation agreement for building Waste-to-Energy (PSEL) facilities, a government initiative aimed at environmentally friendly waste management that also generates clean, sustainable electricity. The company is providing land in the Benoa area of Bali, in collaboration with provincial and city governments, to support Presidential Regulation No. 109 of 2025 on urban waste handling through renewable energy technologies. This cross-sector partnership underscores Pelindo's commitment to national sustainability goals and positions ports as key players in eco-friendly logistics ecosystems.

Purbaya to Shatter Assumptions that Indonesia's Economic Growth is Capped at 5 Percent

Indonesia's Finance Minister, Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa, expressed confidence that the country's economy will soon break free from the so-called "5 percent curse" that has constrained growth over the past decade, citing the 5.39 percent expansion in Q4 2025 as evidence. He dismissed assumptions that growth will stagnate at 5 percent as unfounded criticism of the government's efforts, vowing to accelerate development beyond this level. To achieve this, the government plans to revitalise the private sector's role, enabling it to contribute more significantly amid global uncertainties.

A new system to track material design processes

Engineers at Japan's National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) have developed pinax, a novel system that captures the entire trial-and-error process in material design, including machine learning workflows and decision-making, to enhance reproducibility and transparency in research. The system, comprising three layers for machine learning infrastructure, provenance tracking, and advanced features, was tested in case studies on steel properties and polymer thermal conductivity, demonstrating its ability to trace reasoning processes. This innovation promises to transform materials science by enabling more accountable and efficient discovery, with plans to integrate it into autonomous research cycles, potentially advancing fields like clean energy and infrastructure.

Q1 2026 Investment Realisation Exceeds Target of Rp498.79 Trillion - JakartaTerkini.id

Indonesia's first-quarter 2026 investment realisation reached Rp498.79 trillion, surpassing the Rp497 trillion target, with a 7.22% year-on-year increase and job absorption rising 18.93% to 706,569 workers. Domestic and foreign investments were nearly balanced at around 50% each, with over half distributed outside Java, supporting key sectors like basic metals, mining, housing, and telecommunications. This achievement highlights a significant upward trajectory, as the five-year target for 2025-2029 exceeds Rp13,000 trillion compared to Rp9,100 trillion over the previous decade, bolstering economic growth prospects.

Yusril Targets Legal Development Index to Rise to 0.69 Points

Yusril Ihza Mahendra, the Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections, has set a target to increase Indonesia's National Legal Development Index (IPH) from 0.68 to 0.69 points next year, as discussed in a national legal development coordination meeting. The initiative involves coordination with various ministries and agencies, including the Corruption Eradication Commission and the Attorney General's Office, to harmonise national and regional regulations and prevent overlaps. This effort is particularly significant this year following the implementation of the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) and Criminal Code (KUHP), aiming to align interpretations among law enforcement bodies and reduce public confusion.

Ensuring Avtur Supply at Two Main Embarkation Points, Pertamina Activates Hajj Task Force for 2026 in Kalimantan

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Kalimantan has activated its Hajj Task Force for 2026 to guarantee the smooth supply of aviation fuel (avtur) at the key embarkation airports of Balikpapan and Banjarmasin, supporting the departure of 13,047 pilgrims from the region. The initiative includes comprehensive operational preparations, 24-hour services, health support for staff, and rigorous technical checks to ensure safety and reliability during the Hajj season starting in April 2026. This move underscores Pertamina's commitment to reliable energy distribution for Indonesia's Hajj operations, aligning with national efforts to facilitate timely and secure pilgrimages.

KPK Explains Reasons Why Tulungagung OPD Heads Are Not Allowed to Leave the City

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has explained that the advisory for all heads of regional apparatus organisations (OPD) in Tulungagung Regency, East Java, to remain in the area stems from the need to facilitate investigations into an alleged extortion case involving the inactive regent, Gatut Sunu Wibowo. This measure ensures that witnesses are readily available for examinations, particularly if investigators conduct fieldwork in the region, following a recent sting operation that resulted in 18 arrests, including Gatut and his brother. The case involves allegations of Gatut extorting up to Rp2.7 billion from 16 OPD heads through coerced resignation letters, highlighting ongoing anti-corruption efforts in local government.

South Korea, China, and Japan Invest in Indonesia; Rosan: Targets Can Be Achieved

Indonesia's Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, has highlighted substantial investments from South Korea, China, and Japan, with Japan contributing nearly $30 billion, South Korea $10 billion, and China maintaining high levels of investment. These inflows are seen as key to achieving the government's ambitious target of Rp13,000 trillion in investment realisation for 2025-2029, despite global uncertainties. President Prabowo Subianto is pushing to position Indonesia as a safe and investor-friendly destination, including plans for a Special Financial Centre, capitalising on investors' reluctance to engage in conflict-prone regions like the Middle East.

Election Bill Targeted for Completion within 2.5 Years of Prabowo's Government

The Indonesian government, through Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra, aims to finalise revisions to the General Elections Law within the first 2.5 years of President Prabowo Subianto's administration to allow sufficient preparation time for the 2029 elections. Discussions are set to begin in mid-2026, pending initiative from the House of Representatives (DPR), with the government preparing to address key issues, including recent Constitutional Court rulings, to avoid potential legal challenges. DPR leaders emphasise a cautious approach, involving simulations by political parties to ensure the resulting law is robust and does not invite further judicial review.