Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 April 2026

Showing 1,101-1,150 of 1,736 articles

Global Turbine Asia Advances Aerospace Growth, Capabilities and Talent Development Through Strategic Partnerships

Global Turbine Asia Sdn. Bhd. (GTA) has signed multiple Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Airbus Defence & Space, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia, and a Note of Understanding with Perbadanan Hal Ehwal Bekas Angkatan Tentera, all witnessed by Malaysia's Minister of Defence. These agreements aim to enhance Malaysia's aerospace and defence sector by developing military aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, fostering industry-academia research and innovation, and supporting the career transitions of military veterans through training and employment opportunities. The partnerships underscore GTA's commitment to building a resilient ecosystem for talent development and regional self-reliance in aerospace technologies.

State Loses Rp 60 Trillion from Illegal Cigarettes, Purbaya Targets Producers to Enter the System

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa estimates that illegal cigarettes are causing a state revenue leakage of Rp 60 trillion, equivalent to about 30% of potential tobacco excise receipts. To address this, the government plans to introduce additional layers of excise tariffs to encourage illegal producers to join the official system and operate legally, while also offering them space in Special Economic Zones for easier monitoring. This strategy complements the decision to freeze excise rate increases in 2026, aiming to sustain the legitimate cigarette industry amid the threat from illicit trade.

GAC strengthens direction in Indonesia through enhancement of technology and manufacturing

GAC Indonesia is reinforcing its commitment to delivering vehicles tailored to the Indonesian market by advancing technology and global production capabilities. During an industrial visit to facilities in Guangzhou, China, including the GAC Technology Museum, GAC Trumpchi Factory, and GAC AION Factory, the company showcased its expertise in modern manufacturing, high-automation production lines, hybrid powertrain innovations, and electric vehicle advancements such as solid-state batteries. This strategic focus positions GAC to offer sophisticated, competitive, and relevant vehicles to Indonesian consumers.

Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk Are Wealthy, But Not Yet as Powerful as the Fords?

The article examines whether contemporary AI leaders like Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and others have achieved the economic dominance of historical industrial titans such as Henry Ford or John D. Rockefeller. It highlights that while AI is transformative, it has not yet produced massive conglomerates or stable profits comparable to past sectors like automotive or oil, due to high costs and dependency on limited talent. The piece also discusses evolving state interventions to curb big business power, suggesting that AI moguls may eventually wield similar influence if history repeats.

Prabowo-Gibran Volunteers Vow to Monitor Government Policies

Volunteers from the former Prabowo-Gibran campaign team in West Java have pledged to reactivate their networks to oversee and safeguard the government's policies following the enactment of the Job Creation Bill. They expressed support for key initiatives such as maintaining subsidised fuel prices, achieving food and energy self-sufficiency, and programmes like free nutritious meals and the Red White Cooperative, viewing these as vital for protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring national stability. The group emphasised their commitment to preventing misuse of presidential intentions and promoting transparency amid global geopolitical challenges.

Civil Servant Killed in Shooting in Yahukimo! Armed Terror Strikes Papua Again

A civil servant, Yones Yohame, was fatally shot in Yahukimo, Papua, on 21 April 2026, amid ongoing armed violence in the region, which the military attributes to the OPM group. Security forces have launched a joint operation to hunt down the perpetrators who fled into the forest, while also neutralising a wanted KKB member in a separate incident in Puncak Jaya. This incident underscores the persistent security challenges in Papua, exacerbating tensions and prompting warnings against provocative rumours.

Minister of Hajj Bids Farewell to the Departure of 391 Pilgrims from the First Flight Group

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mochamad Irfan Yusuf farewelled the first batch of 391 Hajj pilgrims from Jakarta-Pondok Gede embarkation point, marking the start of the 2026 Hajj operations. The government has ensured all pilgrims meet administrative requirements, including valid visas, and prepared contingency plans like reserve pilgrims to optimise the 221,000 quota allocated to Indonesia. This coordinated effort involving multiple agencies aims to facilitate a smooth pilgrimage, enabling devotees to perform their rites devoutly and return with fulfilled spiritual obligations.

Pertamina Strengthens Foundations for Thousands of Women Entrepreneurs

PT Pertamina is bolstering the foundations of 3,489 women entrepreneurs across Indonesia through its PFpreneur 2026 programme, which provides foundational business training ahead of Kartini Day to enhance their competitiveness and scalability. Initiated by Pertamina Foundation in 2020, the programme has supported over 6,325 women-led SMEs in sectors like culinary, fashion, crafts, and agribusiness, preparing them for advanced training such as the Pertamina UMK Academy and global opportunities. Success stories, including eco-fashion brand Rifera and banana product innovator Bananania, highlight how PFpreneur fosters resilient, independent, and competitive women entrepreneurs, underscoring Pertamina's commitment to women's empowerment in Indonesia's economy.

New Threat to Banks Worldwide, Europe Begins to Prepare

The newly launched AI model Mythos from Anthropic poses significant cybersecurity risks to banks globally, prompting European authorities to closely communicate with financial institutions to assess preparedness. While Deutsche Bank's CEO Christian Swing downplays immediate panic, he emphasises the need to incorporate this threat into daily risk management, with German associations set to discuss it soon. The UK government has highlighted Mythos's superior cyber attack capabilities, and European regulators, including the ECB, are evaluating banks' awareness and response abilities to this emerging danger.

Khoirudin Removed, Jakarta DPRD Schedules Plenary Meeting for Chairman Replacement Next Week

The Central Executive Board of the Prosperous Justice Party (PKS) has decided to replace Khoirudin as Chairman of the Jakarta Provincial DPRD, proposing Suhud Alynudin, the current Chairman of PKS's Jakarta Regional Board, as his successor. The Jakarta DPRD's Advisory Board has scheduled a plenary session for 30 April to discuss and approve this proposal, with Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung expected to attend. The process will involve submitting the outcome to the Ministry of Home Affairs for final approval, expected within 20 working days, highlighting the procedural intricacies of political leadership changes in Indonesia's regional legislature.

Purbaya: Whoosh Debt Restructuring Scheme Finalised, Announcement Imminent

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed that the debt restructuring scheme for the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail (Whoosh) project is complete and will be officially announced soon alongside Coordinating Minister Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono. The process, involving communication with Chinese Finance Minister Lan Fo'an, underscores Indonesia's commitment to maintaining its international credibility, with both parties sharing risks in the joint venture. Purbaya highlighted past issues like poor inter-agency coordination and cost overruns of around Rp100 trillion, emphasising the need for stronger oversight in future large-scale infrastructure projects to ensure efficiency and avoid similar delays.

JCI Corrects to 7,544 as Market Awaits BI Interest Rate Decision

The Composite Stock Price Index (JCI) declined by 0.19% or 15.01 points to 7,544.36 during the morning session on Wednesday, 22 April 2026, amid fluctuations and high trading activity worth Rp9.17 trillion. The market's focus remains on Bank Indonesia's upcoming interest rate announcement at 2:00 PM WIB, with analysts from Phintraco Sekuritas projecting the index to trade between 7,500 and 7,600, while sectors like energy and technology led the declines and transportation surged. Notable gainers in the LQ45 included Astra International (ASII) up 3.95%, Indo Tambangraya Megah (ITMG) up 3.14%, and PT Bukit Asam (PTBA) up 2.41%.

Seven HKTDC Lifestyle and Licensing Mega Events to Open Next Week

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is organising seven major lifestyle and licensing events next week, including the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, Home InStyle, and Fashion InStyle, expected to draw 5,600 exhibitors from over 30 countries and regions. These events highlight innovative products in gifts, houseware, fashion, printing, packaging, and intellectual property, with new pavilions from regions like Indonesia, India, and various Chinese provinces, emphasising sustainable development and creative synergies. By leveraging Hong Kong's role as a connector between mainland China and global markets, the fairs align with national strategies and offer buyers diverse sourcing opportunities, fostering cross-industry business expansion.

Prabowo Explores Opportunities to Send Indonesians to Russia's Cosmonaut Programme

President Prabowo Subianto is exploring the possibility of sending selected Indonesian citizens to undergo cosmonaut training in Russia, as discussed during his meeting with President Vladimir Putin on 13 April 2026. Foreign Minister Sugiono highlighted that this initiative serves as an indicator of a nation's technological advancement and strengthens the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Russia. The discussions also covered alternative energy potentials to mitigate geopolitical uncertainties and ensure affordable energy for Indonesia's economy and agriculture, amid concerns over fertiliser shortages due to Middle East tensions.

Rumah Zakat Participates in Inclusion and Safeguarding Training to Strengthen Humanitarian Services

Rumah Zakat, an Indonesian humanitarian organisation, has participated in a training programme on inclusion, safeguarding, and feedback mechanisms organised by Yakkum Emergency Unit to enhance its services. The session, attended by 26 participants from vulnerable groups, government, and humanitarian actors, emphasised active involvement of at-risk populations such as the elderly, disabled, and underprivileged in decision-making processes. This initiative aligns with global standards from the Sphere Association, aiming to create more accountable, sustainable, and equitable humanitarian programmes.

BPJPH prepares policy instruments for halal certification of MBG kitchens

Indonesia's Halal Product Assurance Organising Agency (BPJPH) is developing specific guidelines and accelerating training for halal supervisors to streamline the halal certification process for the 26,000 kitchens under the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, where only about 4,000 currently hold certification. This initiative involves collaboration with 40 Halal Product Assurance Training Implementing Institutions to ensure compliance with Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024, which mandates halal supervisors for certification applicants. The effort underscores the government's commitment to integrating halal standards into national social welfare programmes, enhancing efficiency and accessibility in public nutrition services.

Clash Between Debt Collectors and Delinquent Borrower in Cakung Not the First Time

A clash between debt collectors, known as 'matel', and a delinquent borrower in Cakung, East Jakarta, escalated into a physical altercation at a leasing office, but was quickly diffused by local residents with no injuries reported. Residents note that verbal disputes with overdue payers are common at the recently opened office, highlighting ongoing tensions in debt recovery practices. Police confirmed the incident stemmed from the repossession of a motorbike, underscoring challenges in regulating aggressive collection methods in urban areas.

Stock Exchange Transparent on Method for Selecting HSC Shares

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has clarified the process for identifying and announcing High Shareholding Concentration (HSC) shares, which highlight stocks with ownership concentrated among a limited number of investors, aimed at enhancing public transparency. BEI Director Irvan Susandy explained that a special committee involving BEI and the Central Securities Depository (KSEI) evaluates factors such as price volatility, supervision aspects, and liquidity to trigger assessments of shareholding structures. Listed companies can address HSC status through measures like share refloating or corporate actions, with BEI issuing recovery announcements once the concentration is resolved.

Not Just Oil: Middle East War Threatens Sulphur Crisis for Indonesia's Nickel Plants

Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Chairman of the National Economic Council, briefed President Prabowo Subianto on potential economic disruptions from a prolonged Middle East conflict, including sulphur shortages critical for Indonesia's nickel downstreaming and electric vehicle battery production. Despite these risks, Luhut assured that Indonesia's economy and state budget remain manageable, with plans to control the budget deficit below 3% through spending efficiency and export revenues from coal and palm oil. He advocated accelerating deregulation, digital transformation, and the development of an Indonesia Financial Center to seize opportunities amid global shifts.

Greenovation 2026: Indonesia's Mining Industry Efforts to Enhance Global Competitiveness

The Indonesian mining industry, a cornerstone of the national economy, is undergoing transformation to boost global competitiveness through decarbonisation and innovation, as highlighted by the Greenovation 2026 competition. Organised by the Indonesian Coal Mining Association, the platform fosters collaboration among professionals to develop practical solutions for low-carbon operations, energy efficiency, and sustainability amid government pushes for downstream processing and energy resilience. Experts emphasise the role of energy management and electrification in heavy equipment to maintain productivity while meeting global environmental demands.

Frendry Dona, Boss of Drug-Infused Vape Lab Using Official Ojol, Officially Becomes Fugitive

Indonesian National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency has issued a wanted list for Frendry Dona, alias Fhoku, the controller of a clandestine laboratory producing vape cartridges containing the narcotic etomidate in East Jakarta. The case unravelled after an online motorcycle taxi driver grew suspicious of a package he was transporting, leading to the discovery of drugs and subsequent raids that uncovered significant quantities of narcotics and production equipment. This operation highlights the growing use of digital transport services in drug distribution networks and the police's efforts to dismantle them, with the total value of seized drugs estimated at Rp410.8 million.

Udayana University Student Body Brings Six Demands on Waste Issues to Bali DPRD

The Executive Board of Students (BEM) at Universitas Udayana staged a protest outside the Bali Provincial Legislative Council (DPRD) building, presenting six demands to address the ongoing waste management crisis in the region. Despite existing regulations since 2008, students criticised the government's inadequate facilities, suboptimal waste collection systems, and political conflicts among elites that have hindered effective implementation and prolonged reliance on temporary solutions like extending the landfill's operation. The demands include enhanced policy socialisation, adequate facility provision, better alignment between rules and field implementation, clarity on landfill policies, an end to patchwork fixes, and a firm governmental commitment to a comprehensive resolution, underscoring the broader impact on public welfare.

Purbaya states Whoosh restructuring complete, awaiting announcement

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced that the debt restructuring for the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Train (Whoosh) project is complete and only awaits an official government announcement. He informed China's Finance Minister of the decision to maintain long-term bilateral relations and trust between the two nations. The announcement will be made by Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), with Purbaya noting past issues like cost overruns and inter-agency coordination challenges in the project managed by PT KCIC.

Home Affairs Minister: Green spaces and walkable cities as solutions to healthcare costs

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, has advocated for urban development focused on public health through increased green spaces and walkable city designs to reduce long-term healthcare expenses. He emphasised that investing in parks, pedestrian pathways, and recreational areas is more cost-effective than subsidising disease treatment, while warning against converting green areas into commercial or residential zones that could lead to environmental issues like flooding. Drawing examples from Singapore and the eco-friendly Banyuwangi Airport, the minister urged local governments to prioritise balanced spatial planning for sustainable cities that enhance community well-being and productivity.

Indonesia sends off 391 pilgrims in first batch for 2026 season

Indonesia's Hajj and Umrah Minister Mochamad Irfan Yusuf oversaw the departure of the first batch of 391 pilgrims from East Jakarta at the Jakarta–Pondok Gede embarkation point on Tuesday evening, marking the start of the 2026 Hajj season operations. All pilgrims have fulfilled administrative requirements, including valid visas, with contingency plans in place to utilise the full quota by deploying reserves if needed. The government has coordinated efforts among ministries, immigration, police, and the Hajj Organizing Committee to ensure smooth departures and safe arrivals in Saudi Arabia, emphasising health maintenance and prompt issue reporting.

YLKI: Toll Road Tax Policy is Reckless Nonsense

The Indonesian Consumers' Foundation (YLKI) has strongly rejected the resurfacing proposal to impose Value Added Tax (PPN) on toll road usage, labelling it as misguided and unhelpful to the public, especially given the already high toll fees that burden everyday users from workers to small businesses. YLKI warns that this additional tax would exacerbate logistical costs and consumer prices, and plans to urge Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to abandon the idea while threatening legal action if it proceeds. Instead, the group advocates focusing on improving toll services and exploring alternative revenue sources like taxes on sugary drinks to avoid further economic strain on citizens.

Puan Hammers Approval of Domestic Workers Protection Law, Labour Boss's Reaction Unexpected

The Indonesian House of Representatives has approved the Domestic Workers Protection Act (UU PPRT) after 22 years of advocacy, marking a significant milestone in providing legal safeguards for domestic workers against violence, ensuring wage certainty, social security access, and humane working hours. Labour leader Said Iqbal, president of the Indonesian Workers' Confederation (KSPI) and Labour Party, praised the decision but unexpectedly criticised the planned discussion of the Employment Bill through the DPR's Legislation Body (Baleg), warning it could repeat the rushed, non-participatory process of the previous Omnibus Law. He advocated for transparent deliberation via specialised committees in Commission IX to protect workers' rights, pledging mass protests on May Day 2026 if unaddressed.

Hajj Emergency Regulation Proposal Emerges, Examining the Trail of Previous Presidents' Emergency Rules

Amid a surge in Hajj flight costs by Rp 1.77 trillion due to rising aviation fuel prices influenced by Middle East geopolitics, proposals for a Government Regulation in Lieu of Law (Perppu) have surfaced to fund the shortfall from the state budget without burdening pilgrims, as directed by President Prabowo Subianto. House of Representatives Commission VIII Chairman Marwan Dasopang advocates for the Perppu under force majeure conditions to legally accommodate this emergency measure. Historically, Indonesia has issued multiple Perppus, notably during President Joko Widodo's tenure, including one for the Covid-19 crisis that enabled significant fiscal interventions like Bank Indonesia financing budget deficits and allocating Rp 405.1 trillion for pandemic response, highlighting their role in addressing urgent national challenges.

Head of BPJPH Appreciates Foreign Supermarket for Obtaining Halal Certification

The Head of the Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH), Ahmad Haikal Hasan, praised South Korean supermarket chain Lotte Mart for its effective implementation of halal product assurance systems in Indonesia during a surprise inspection at its Gandaria City Mall outlet. He highlighted that while non-halal products are still sold, they are clearly separated in compliance with regulations, and urged all retailers to obtain halal certification before the October 2026 deadline under Law No. 33 of 2014. Lotte Mart reported positive business impacts from the certification, including increased customer satisfaction and footfall, underscoring its role in enhancing consumer trust and competitiveness in the Indonesian market.

Cabinet Secretary discusses improvements to immigration services with Director General of Immigration

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya met with the newly appointed Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, to discuss strategic programmes aimed at enhancing immigration services in Indonesia. Key initiatives include simplifying processes for Hajj pilgrims, improving efficiency at airports and ports, and upgrading border crossing points to strengthen both service delivery and oversight. This coordination underscores the government's commitment to more practical, secure, and advanced immigration functions for national security and public convenience.

Caring for Women's Health, Pertamina Expands Access to Early Breast Cancer Detection

PT Pertamina has donated a mobile mammography unit to the Indonesian Breast Cancer Foundation (YKPI) to enhance early detection services for breast cancer among women, particularly in underserved areas, coinciding with Kartini Day. This initiative, part of the PinkCheck campaign, aims to screen 1,000 women for free using advanced, disability-friendly technology, building on Pertamina's previous efforts that served over 18,200 women since 2014. The programme underscores Pertamina's commitment to women's empowerment, inclusive healthcare, and alignment with Sustainable Development Goals through its ESG principles.

Palm Oil Fresh Fruit Bunch Prices in Riau Drop Below Rp4,000 per kg

Fresh fruit bunch (FFB) prices for independent palm oil farmers in Riau have declined by 3.22% to Rp3,956.31 per kg, influenced by a sharp drop in crude palm oil (CPO) prices to Rp15,437 per kg, while kernel prices rose slightly. This adjustment, effective from 22-28 April 2026, also affects plasma farmers with prices falling to Rp3,948.38 per kg, amid ongoing efforts by provincial authorities to improve governance and ensure fair pricing that boosts farmer incomes and community welfare.

PKB Hopes Election Bill to Be Discussed This Year, Reviews Legislative Seat Calculation

The National Awakening Party (PKB) is urging the immediate discussion of the Election Bill (RUU Pemilu) this year, with Secretary-General Hasanuddin Wahid emphasising the need to review critical aspects such as the electoral system and methods for calculating legislative seats to enhance democratic quality and prevent vote wastage or money politics. PKB views the parliamentary threshold as moderately acceptable, provided no public voices are lost, and believes the revision timing will not disrupt upcoming election stages. House Speaker Puan Maharani has denied rumours of secretive discussions, confirming that political communications occur both formally and informally.

US-China Chip War: Who Will Dominate the Future of AI?

The US-China rivalry over advanced semiconductors intensifies as the US imposes export restrictions to curb China's technological and military advancements, prompting Beijing to invest billions in domestic chip production under its Made in China 2025 initiative. While China has made strides in legacy chips and practical AI applications, gaining traction in the Global South with cost-effective solutions, it lags behind in cutting-edge innovation and faces barriers from US sanctions, potentially leading to divergent AI ecosystems. This competition not only pressures global chip prices but also challenges US dominance in AI infrastructure amid energy constraints, highlighting the strategic importance of chips in national security and economic power.

Additional Annual Costs for Electric Vehicles Based on the Latest Regulations

Indonesia's government has introduced new taxation rules for battery-based electric vehicles through Minister of Home Affairs Regulation No. 11 of 2026, ending the previous exemption from motor vehicle tax (PKB) and aligning it with conventional vehicles. For example, a BYD M6 with a vehicle sales value of Rp350 million would incur an annual PKB of approximately Rp7.35 million without incentives, though local governments retain authority to provide reductions or exemptions. This change could result in owners paying around Rp735,000 annually if a 90% reduction is applied, potentially impacting the affordability of electric vehicles.

Plan Emerges for VAT on Toll Roads, Here's Purbaya's Explanation!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the proposed mechanism for imposing Value Added Tax (VAT) on toll road services, outlined in the Directorate General of Taxation's (DJP) 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, requires prior analysis by the Fiscal Policy Agency. He admitted unfamiliarity with the details and reaffirmed his commitment not to introduce new taxes or raise rates until Indonesia's economy improves significantly, targeting 6% growth. The plan, set for implementation in 2028, forms part of broader efforts to expand the tax base for fairness, including carbon taxes from 2026 and digital transaction taxes since 2025.

JCI Falls 0.2% to 7,544 as Investors Offload DSSA and BREN Shares

The Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) declined by 0.2% to 7,544.36 in the morning session, dragged down by significant sell-offs in shares of Dian Swastatika Sentosa (DSSA) and Barito Renewables Energy (BREN) following an MSCI announcement that may lead to their removal from the MSCI Global Standard index. Market participants are also monitoring Bank Indonesia's interest rate decision, expected to hold steady at 4.75%, alongside international developments such as the US-Iran ceasefire extension and the US Federal Reserve confirmation hearing for Kevin Warsh, which could influence global financial stability and energy prices.

Minister Imipas: Corruption Inmate Who Stopped at Coffee Shop Transferred to Nusakambangan

Minister of Immigration and Corrections Agus Andrianto has transferred corruption convict Supriadi, who was caught relaxing at a coffee shop in Kendari after a court hearing, to the high-security Nusakambangan prison. The accompanying correctional officers have been sanctioned for negligence, as escorting inmates is not their duty, and the ministry is issuing guidelines to ensure police handle such tasks in future. This incident highlights lapses in prisoner supervision amid Supriadi's conviction for bribery in illegal nickel transport permits, causing state losses of Rp233 billion.

Rosan Roeslani Reports to Prabowo on Investment Realisation Exceeding Rp 498.79 Trillion

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani reported to President Prabowo Subianto that first-quarter investment realisation in 2026 reached Rp 498.79 trillion, surpassing the Rp 497 trillion target by 0.36% and marking a 7.22% year-on-year increase. This achievement created 706,569 jobs, a 18.93% annual growth, with domestic investment at Rp 248.84 trillion and foreign investment at Rp 249.94 trillion, led by Singapore, Hong Kong, China, the US, and Japan. The strong performance underscores Indonesia's improving investment climate under the new administration, potentially boosting economic growth and industrialisation efforts.

Asabri Distributes Total Compensation of Rp 1.41 Billion to Families of Fallen TNI Soldiers in Lebanon

PT Asabri has disbursed a total of Rp 1.41 billion in social insurance benefits to the families of three Indonesian National Army (TNI) soldiers who perished during a peacekeeping mission in Lebanon. The compensation includes special death risk allowances and insurance savings values under the Work Accident Insurance (JKK) and Old Age Savings (THT) programmes, fulfilling the state's commitment to protect the families of fallen personnel. President Prabowo Subianto led the dignified reception of the remains at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, underscoring national honours for their sacrifice.

Yusril Targets Completion of Election Bill Within 2.5 Years of Prabowo's Administration

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has set a target to finalise the revision of the Election Law (RUU Pemilu) within 2.5 years of President Prabowo Subianto's government to allow sufficient preparation time for the 2029 elections. He hopes discussions with the DPR will begin by mid-year, with the government ready to provide a counter-draft once the legislative body prepares its version. DPR Chair Puan Maharani confirmed ongoing political communications on the bill, emphasising the need for future elections to be conducted honestly, fairly, and in the spirit of democracy without harming the nation.

China Furious Over Japan's Weapons Export Revision, Potentially to 17 Countries

China has strongly condemned Japan's decision to revise its rules on exporting major weapons systems, allowing sales to 17 partner countries, viewing it as a dangerous step towards remilitarisation that contradicts Japan's post-war pacifist stance. The revision, approved by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's cabinet, permits exports of non-lethal defence equipment like rescue and surveillance gear, while restricting lethal weapons to allies with security agreements, including Indonesia and the US. This move raises international concerns, particularly from China, about Japan's historical aggression and potential escalation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Puncak Jaya's Eternal Ice at Risk of Disappearing, UGM Expert: 2025, World's Worst Year for Glaciers

The eternal ice covering Puncak Jaya in Papua, Indonesia, which has persisted for thousands of years, is on the brink of extinction due to drastic shrinkage, as confirmed by recent BMKG data and global reports highlighting 2025 as the sixth worst year for glaciers since 1975. UGM environmental hydro-meteorology expert Dr. Emilya Nurjani attributes this to reduced albedo from massive land use changes, leading to global warming and accelerated ice melt, with significant implications for sea level rise affecting coastal areas like northern Java. This loss signals a broader ecological crisis for Indonesia, urging immediate actions such as energy conservation and reforestation to mitigate rising temperatures.

Purbaya Threatens Slow Bureaucrats! Get Ready to Pack Your Bags

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has expressed frustration over the slow work habits of Indonesian bureaucrats, particularly in preventing state revenue leaks through taxation and illegal imports. Despite major rotations in the Ministry of Finance since his appointment on 8 September 2026, he warns that officials who fail to act promptly on directives will face dismissal or reassignment. He promises high rewards and incentives for those who perform efficiently, aiming to reform bureaucratic behaviour to protect national finances.

Ministry of Tourism Promotes Indonesia's Premier Diving Destinations

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is promoting the country's top diving destinations at the Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) 2026 in Singapore to advance quality and sustainable tourism. The Wonderful Indonesia pavilion features services from eight diving businesses in key spots like Raja Ampat, Bali, and Lombok, with Garuda Indonesia providing transport information, aiming to boost international visitor numbers and generate around Rp7 billion in transactions. This initiative aligns with transforming tourism towards higher economic contributions, supported by data showing 43.32% of foreign tourists engaging in marine activities.

On Toll Road Tax, This is What Finance Minister Purbaya Says

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the government will not impose new taxes, including VAT on toll roads, in the near future amid an economy still recovering from challenges. He emphasised that any tax policy requires thorough analysis by the Fiscal Policy Agency and will only be considered after significant improvements in economic growth and consumer purchasing power. This commitment aims to avoid disrupting economic direction and supports the government's focus on fiscal prudence.

Defence Ministry Confirms Regional Civil Servants Have Begun Participating in Komcad Programme

The Indonesian Ministry of Defence has confirmed that civil servants in regional governments are commencing training as reserve components, or komcad, with 500 ASN from South Sulawesi currently undergoing basic military training since 30 March. The ministry provides facilities and instructors for these initiatives led by local governments, which include topics from shooting exercises to fostering nationalistic spirit, and hopes more provinces like Central Kalimantan and North Sulawesi will follow suit. Additionally, 1,773 ASN from 55 central ministries and agencies in Jakarta are set to participate in a 1.5-month basic military training programme, with graduation planned for June 2026.

DPRD DKI Jakarta Bamus Meeting Prolonged by Disputes Over PDIP Training and Governor's Working Visit

A meeting of the DPRD DKI Jakarta Deliberative Body to schedule the plenary session for replacing the PKS faction's DPRD Chairman became contentious due to conflicting agendas, including PDIP's technical training in Bali and Governor Pramono Anung's overseas trip. The session chair emphasised the importance of achieving the required two-thirds quorum and urged the PDIP faction to prioritise attendance, while rejecting the governor's absence in favour of his deputy. After lengthy debates, the plenary was rescheduled to 30 April 2026 to ensure full participation from key factions and the governor's presence, highlighting procedural challenges in Jakarta's legislative transitions.

1,773 Civil Servants Begin Basic Military Training to Become Reserve Component

A total of 1,773 civil servants (ASN) from 49 ministries and agencies have commenced basic military training to qualify as national reserve components, following rigorous health, psychological, and ideological assessments. The programme, launched at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base in East Jakarta, aims to bolster Indonesia's defence through integrated civilian-military synergy amid evolving global and regional threats. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to a layered, active defensive strategy, with participants undergoing 45 days of training across various military education centres to foster discipline and national resilience.

Rumah Zakat Promotes Environmental Collaboration and Community Empowerment in Rusun Marunda

In commemoration of Earth Day, Rumah Zakat, through its support of Rumah Mangrove Marunda, organised a gathering to strengthen environmental collaboration and community empowerment in Jakarta's Rusun Marunda area, involving local leaders and representatives from various government agencies. Discussions highlighted the importance of women's roles in sustainable development, exemplified by female-dominated mangrove farming groups that bolster both environmental conservation and family economic resilience, alongside initiatives like environmental edutourism to foster youth awareness. The event underscored the need for balanced efforts in ecosystem rehabilitation and local economic strengthening to ensure sustainable benefits for residents, fostering synergy among communities, government, and stakeholders for a healthier, more inclusive environment.