The Director General of Population and Civil Registration at the Ministry of Home Affairs, Teguh Setyabudi, has clarified that the background colours on Indonesian ID card (KTP) photos—red for odd birth years and blue for even birth years—serve as quick identifiers for officials to distinguish documents based on the holder's year of birth. Additionally, orange backgrounds are designated for foreign nationals residing in Indonesia. This system aids efficient processing, while citizens applying for new KTPs must prepare specific documents as per Presidential Regulation No. 96 of 2018, with services available through mobile outreach programs.

On the first day of the 2026 Computer-Based Written Exam for the National Selection Based on Test (UTBK-SNBT), the National Selection Committee for New Student Admissions (SNPMB) detected cheating schemes involving proxy test-takers and illegal aids among the 871,496 participants across Indonesia. Committee Chairman Eduart Wolok announced strict sanctions, including exam result cancellations, disqualification from all public university admission pathways, and potential legal action, while Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto urged participants to uphold integrity and trust in their own abilities. The 10-day exam, running from 21 to 30 April 2026, highlights ongoing efforts to combat fraud in Indonesia's higher education admissions process, with results due on 25 May 2026.

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani reported to President Prabowo Subianto that Japan and South Korea have committed approximately Rp570 trillion in investments, highlighting positive trends in strategic sectors for 2026. The first quarter of 2026 saw realised investments of Rp498.79 trillion, exceeding the target and achieving a 7.22% year-on-year increase, while creating 706,569 jobs—a 18.93% rise from the previous year. This underscores the government's efforts to accelerate investment realisation to bolster national economic growth and sustainable downstreaming programmes.

Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita stated that the surge in electric vehicle sales due to rising fuel prices is a natural market response driven by energy security concerns. He expressed hope that the price hikes on non-subsidised fuels, influenced by Middle East conflicts, would be short-lived, while Pertamina has increased prices for products like Pertamax Turbo to Rp 19,400 per litre. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia urged middle and upper-class citizens not to switch to subsidised fuels, warning that such actions would deprive those truly in need.

The rupiah weakened slightly to Rp17,156 per US dollar on Wednesday morning, amid ongoing uncertainties surrounding potential US-Iran peace negotiations in Pakistan. While optimism from reports of continued talks and a US ceasefire extension provided some support, stronger-than-expected US retail sales data tempered gains. Analysts forecast the rupiah to trade within Rp17,125 to Rp17,225 per dollar, highlighting the rupiah's vulnerability to international geopolitical sentiments.

Indonesian retail investors are being pushed to adapt to real-time AI trading technologies as traditional systems lag behind advanced markets like the US, where algorithms and order flow analysis are standard. Indo Premier Sekuritas (IPOT) has introduced an AI-powered stock trading app featuring tools like AI Live and Bandar Action, enabling faster market monitoring and data-driven decisions that reduce reliance on speculation. This shift, supported by robust infrastructure and security measures, positions tech-savvy investors for superior performance in a competitive, volatile market.

Pertamina is empowering women entrepreneurs in the ultra-micro to small business categories to scale up and enhance competitiveness through its PFpreneur 2026 programme, which saw 3,489 participants join a pre-curation socialisation event on Kartini Day via online platforms. The initiative, comprising four stages of asynchronous e-learning on topics from mindset strengthening to digital capacity building, aims to build a robust foundation for women-led SMEs before advancing them to advanced Pertamina Group programmes like UMK Academy. Since its inception in 2020 by Pertamina Foundation, PFpreneur has supported 6,325 women-owned businesses across sectors such as culinary, fashion, crafts, and agribusiness, exemplified by the success story of Rifera, a Sumatera Selatan eco-fashion UMKM that transitioned from a home-based operation to gaining recognition at a regional exhibition.

Indonesia's Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita has announced the inauguration of the country's fifth Apple Developer Academy and five new Apple Developer Institutes, aimed at accelerating digital talent development and bolstering the nation's innovation-driven industrial base. This expansion, under a memorandum of understanding with Apple, will provide advanced training in coding, design, AI, and other emerging technologies, targeting nearly 1,000 students annually from 2026 to meet the demand for skilled digital professionals. The initiative underscores the government's strategy to partner with global tech firms for digital transformation and enhance Indonesia's competitiveness in Southeast Asia's largest economy.

United Airlines has slashed its 2026 performance projections amid a sharp rise in jet fuel prices triggered by the Middle East conflict, prompting the carrier to reduce some flight plans to curb expenses. The airline now anticipates adjusted earnings per share of $7 to $11 for the current year, down from the previous $12 to $14 estimate, while second-quarter adjusted earnings are expected at $1 to $2 per share, below analyst forecasts. Despite these challenges, United reported strong first-quarter results with revenue of $14.61 billion and net profit surging 80% to $699 million, underscoring the resilience of its long-term strategy as highlighted by CEO Scott Kirby.

The Indonesian Special Forces Command (Kopassus) has firmly denied circulating rumours that its commander, Lieutenant General Djon Afriandi, slapped a palace protocol officer during a meeting with President Prabowo Subianto. The denial, issued via Instagram, labels the story as fake news intended to sow discord and undermine national unity, with no valid evidence supporting the claims. The hoax originated from a now-deleted social media post alleging delays in the scheduled audience led to the altercation, highlighting ongoing challenges in combating misinformation in Indonesia's digital space.

US President Donald Trump has proposed a record-breaking US$1.5 trillion defence budget for fiscal year 2027, marking a 42% increase from the current allocation and surpassing the previous Pentagon budget under President Joe Biden by two-thirds. This substantial hike aims to bolster the US defence industry by expanding production of major weapon systems, strengthening supply chains, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, while investing in advanced technologies like the Golden Dome missile defence system, drone dominance, and space superiority. According to global investment manager BlackRock, the move will benefit at least 15 US companies in the military ecosystem, including stocks such as Palantir, AeroVironment, Lockheed Martin, and others focused on AI, drones, space, missiles, warships, and critical materials.

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has interrogated five employees from PT Raja Nusantara Berjaya (RNB), the family company of suspended Pekalongan Regent Fadia Arafiq, to investigate alleged interventions in bidding and procurement processes. The probe reveals Fadia's involvement in establishing RNB, directing subordinates to award contracts to her firm, and channelling billions of rupiah in profits back to her family, with RNB securing Rp46 billion in transactions from local government projects between 2023 and 2026. Fadia, charged under anti-corruption laws, is detained for 20 days as the KPK uncovers irregularities in outsourcing hires and procurement dominance by her company across 17 local agencies.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed concerns that Indonesia's subsidised fuel prices, which are lower than global rates, might lead to illegal exports, stating that smuggling is now nearly impossible due to enhanced government measures. He highlighted the active roles of the Fuel Distribution Task Force (Satgas PKH), the Navy in patrolling waters, and improved customs surveillance by the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. While acknowledging that completely eliminating smuggling remains challenging, Purbaya assured that instructions have been issued to tighten oversight and crack down on any illicit activities, thereby narrowing opportunities for perpetrators.

Universitas Nusa Cendana (Undana) in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, is strengthening its partnership with the Arafura and Timor Seas Ecosystem Action (ATSEA) to enhance research on dugong conservation and seagrass ecosystems in the Arafura and Timor Seas. The collaboration involves providing human resources, laboratory facilities, and student involvement in field research, aiming for tangible ecological and economic impacts on coastal communities. Formal agreements, including a Memorandum of Understanding and Memorandum of Agreement, are targeted for signing in May 2026, aligning with Undana's vision as a world-class university focused on island dryland excellence and supporting regional conservation policies involving Indonesia, Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Timor Leste.

Taj Yasin Maimoen, the Deputy Governor of Central Java, officially released the first batch of Hajj pilgrims for 2026, comprising 360 individuals from Tegal Regency, who departed from the Solo Embarkation Point in Boyolali early on 22 April 2026. This marks the start of operations for Central Java's total quota of 34,122 pilgrims, with health checks ensuring fitness for the journey, though some subsequent batches faced medical referrals. The event highlights improved Hajj management and touching personal stories, such as that of 75-year-old Maliyah, who waited 14 years to embark despite health challenges, underscoring the pilgrimage's profound cultural and religious significance in Indonesia.

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has proposed imposing tolls on ships passing through the Malacca Strait, drawing inspiration from Iran's plans for the Strait of Hormuz, to capitalise on Indonesia's strategic maritime position. He suggested collaborative efforts with Malaysia and Singapore, noting that Indonesia controls the largest portion of the strait. While acknowledging the challenges in implementation, Purbaya urged a shift from a defensive to an offensive economic mindset to leverage Indonesia's resources.

Live chicken prices at the independent farmer level in Indonesia remain unrecovered and have declined further in recent weeks, intensifying financial strain on small-scale poultry farmers amid high feed and operational costs. According to data from the Indonesian People's Poultry Association (PINSAR), prices in Java, particularly Banten, are stagnating at low levels around Rp18,500 to Rp19,500 per kg, attributed to market imbalances favouring integrated producers over independents. Farmers urge regulatory interventions to limit quotas for large integrators and promote equitable market distribution to ensure sustainability for all stakeholders.

Amid global oil price surges driven by geopolitical tensions, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Indonesia has adjusted prices for non-subsidised fuels effective 18 April 2026, with increases ranging from Rp 6,300 to Rp 9,400 per litre for types like Pertamax Turbo, Dexlite, and Pertamina Dex. However, subsidised Pertalite remains stable at Rp 10,000 per litre nationwide, providing relief to the majority of consumers reliant on this essential fuel for transportation, industry, and agriculture. This policy decision underscores the government's efforts to balance economic stability and support for vulnerable sectors without inflating costs for basic energy needs.

Indonesia's Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, has stated that the distribution of social assistance in response to the upcoming adjustment in non-subsidised fuel prices is pending directives from President Prabowo Subianto. The ministry is preparing internal consolidations to implement presidential mandates, including single data consolidation, targeted social assistance, and the people's school programme, while readying schemes for potential expansion of benefits similar to previous years. Further discussions on the policy will occur at the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, with digitalisation emphasised to ensure precise targeting.

The Indonesian parliament has passed the Domestic Workers Protection Act (UU PPRT) on 21 April 2026, marking a historic recognition of domestic workers' rights after over two decades of advocacy by civil society, women's groups, and labour unions. The law guarantees legal protection, social security, humane working conditions, transparent contracts, paid leave, and safeguards against violence, addressing long-standing exploitation in private households. Komnas Perempuan urges the government to swiftly issue implementing regulations within a year and foster cultural shifts to ensure effective implementation and equality for millions of predominantly female domestic workers.

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has claimed that Indonesia is on the verge of breaking free from the decade-long curse of 5% economic growth, despite the Q4 2025 figure standing at 5.39% and the full-year growth at 5.11%. He highlighted this achievement as significant given the adverse global conditions, including escalating geopolitical conflicts, fragmented supply chains, and persistently high interest rates. Purbaya emphasised the government's commitment to accelerating growth beyond 5%, rejecting the notion that current rates indicate inaction.

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka distributed aid vouchers to Papuan women, including widows, during his working visit to Sorong on Kartini Day, enabling them to purchase essential daily necessities. Local officials highlighted the event as a meaningful demonstration of government support for women's empowerment in Papua, addressing ongoing economic and social challenges in the region. This initiative forms part of a broader tour aimed at accelerating equitable development in Papua, in line with President Prabowo Subianto's priorities.

The article warns that escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca signal the fragility of the global economy, potentially disrupting world trade and energy supplies, with severe impacts on ordinary people through rising costs and social instability. It emphasises the strategic importance of building logistical resilience, food reserves, and real assets like gold and silver to protect national interests amid such uncertainties. This perspective highlights the need for economic self-sufficiency as global dependencies expose vulnerabilities in international supply chains.

Hyundai Indonesia is closely monitoring the rising prices of non-subsidised diesel fuel, which impacts the operational costs of its diesel-powered models like the Palisade and Staria. The company emphasises the importance of using high-cetane diesel to maintain engine efficiency and is diversifying its portfolio with hybrid and electric vehicles, such as the Palisade Hybrid, Santa Fe Hybrid, Ioniq 5, and all-new Kona Electric, to offer consumers flexible options amid fluctuating fuel costs. This strategy aims to adapt to market dynamics and changing operational expenses, providing varied choices that align with consumer needs.

Iptu Juani Aing, a police officer from Tarakan Police Resort, has led initiatives to mentor and engage over 80 children in the Selumit Pantai neighbourhood, transforming a notorious drug hotspot into a drug-free, vibrant community through clean-up drives, educational programmes, and support for underprivileged families. Her hands-on approach, including Quran reading classes at the local mosque and assistance for small businesses, has earned her a nomination for the 2026 Hoegeng Awards by the village head, highlighting the vital role of community policing in safeguarding vulnerable youth from narcotics involvement. This effort underscores the broader impact of targeted social interventions in marginalised coastal areas, fostering openness and development among residents previously wary of authorities.

The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has included European-made vehicles in technical trials of the B50 biodiesel fuel to ensure compatibility with international diesel engine technologies before commercial rollout. These tests, involving heavy vehicles like buses and trucks from manufacturers such as Mercedes, demonstrate broad stakeholder commitment to national energy independence, with preliminary results showing reliable performance and safety without engine modifications. The B50 programme, set for mandatory implementation nationwide from July 2026, is projected to save Rp157.28 trillion in foreign exchange, create over 2.2 million jobs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 46.72 million tons of CO2 equivalent.

Indonesia has reported over 8,000 suspected measles cases in early 2026, accompanied by 21 extraordinary events across 17 districts/cities in 11 provinces, some confirmed by laboratory tests, highlighting ongoing active transmission. Dr. Relly Reagen, a physician and head of Brigade Rakyat Nusantara, warns that measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to severe complications like pneumonia and encephalitis, particularly in children and those with weakened immunity. She stresses the importance of vaccination, public health measures, and government efforts to boost routine immunisation coverage and combat vaccine misinformation amid declining rates post-pandemic.

PT Petrosea Tbk has outlined its strategy to sell its subsidiary PT Kemilau Mulia Sakti (KMS) to the Indonesia Stock Exchange, aiming to streamline its portfolio and focus on core businesses in mining, EPC, and logistics. The transaction, valued at Rp1.73 trillion, is expected to boost financial metrics including net profit and current assets while reducing long-term liabilities, with 70% of proceeds allocated to debt repayment. This divestment, which involves a low-contribution unit, underscores Petrosea's efforts to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in the energy and resources sector without any impairment issues.

Presidential Special Advisor on National Defence, retired General TNI Dudung Abdurachman, has firmly stated that foreign military aircraft are not permitted to traverse Indonesian airspace without authorisation, in response to discussions about blanket overflight access for the US military. This position aligns with international law on airspace sovereignty, and Dudung plans to consult directly with President Prabowo Subianto on strategic defence and geopolitical matters. Denials from parliamentary officials, the Foreign Ministry, and the Cabinet Secretary confirm no such unrestricted access has been granted, underscoring Indonesia's commitment to protecting its territorial integrity amid ongoing defence cooperation with the US.

During a surprise inspection on Jalan Pedati in Bogor, Mayor Dedie A Rachim was confronted by a street vendor who highlighted the necessity of vending to meet basic needs, asking if he too had a stomach to feed. The vendor expressed reluctance to relocate to the designated Jambu Dua Market without improved transport access, underscoring ongoing challenges in regulating informal street trading. The incident reflects broader social policy tensions between urban order and livelihood support in Indonesian cities.

South Sumatra Police Chief Irjen Sandi Nugroho led a major roll call for the Community Security Belt, Bhabinkamtibmas, and Forest and Land Fire Alert in Ogan Komering Ilir Regency for 2026, emphasising collective responsibility in upholding public order and safety. He highlighted the philosophical significance of the Security Belt as a binder, strengthener, and protector of society, urging community officers to act as conflict resolvers and linking security to economic growth, including UMKM development and investment attraction. Additionally, Sandi targeted zero forest and land fires in the regency by 2026, promoting proactive, humane prevention as a model for other regions.

PT Hyundai Motors Indonesia has highlighted the need for clear regional tax regulations for electric vehicles following the implementation of a new ministerial regulation that removes EVs from tax exemptions, allowing local governments to set their own rates. The company's COO, Fransiscus Soerjopranoto, stressed that regulatory certainty on taxes and incentives is crucial for building consumer confidence and accelerating the transition to environmentally friendly vehicles. He suggested balancing fiscal variations across regions with non-fiscal measures, such as expanded charging infrastructure and user access benefits, to maintain EV competitiveness and boost adoption.

The first batch of 445 Hajj pilgrims from Batam's embarkation point in the Riau Islands departed for the Holy Land on 22 April 2026, marking the official start of the 1447 Hijriah Hajj season. Governor Ansar Ahmad led the solemn send-off, emphasising mental and financial readiness, health precautions against extreme Saudi weather, and mutual care among pilgrims, particularly for the elderly and disabled. This year's Hajj operations prioritise inclusive services for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, disabled, and women, to ensure a safe and comfortable pilgrimage experience.

In Jakarta, invasive sailfin catfish are being culled due to high heavy metal contamination, mirroring risks in Brazil's Amazon where the fish is a staple consumed at nearly 20 times the national average. Studies reveal dangerous levels of arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead in Amazonian fish species, exacerbated by illegal gold mining, bauxite extraction, and deforestation for soy cultivation. Indonesian authorities warn against consumption pending official safety assessments, highlighting broader environmental and health concerns in polluted waters.

Mediation facilitated by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah between PT Khazanah Tamma Internasional (Hanania Travel) and affected Syawal Umrah pilgrims addressed delays in departures and refund mechanisms, with both parties committing to cooperative resolution. Pilgrims highlighted poor communication and demanded clarity on schedules or reimbursements, while the company reported ongoing gradual refunds and rescheduling. This case underscores persistent issues in Indonesia's Umrah travel industry, prompting calls for greater transparency and regulatory compliance to protect pilgrims' rights.

Amid the weakening of the Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG), retail investors are advised to reduce exposure to stocks with low free float and high shareholding concentration, opting instead for more liquid companies with strong fundamentals. Market observer Hendra Wardana highlights the structural impact of MSCI's decision to freeze the increase in Indonesia's stock weighting in its global index, which limits inflows from global institutional investors, though he urges against overreaction as it signals the need for concrete market reforms rather than mere policy promises. Technically, the IHSG retains rebound potential, bolstered by clearer MSCI reviews and reform implementations, with risk management key to portfolio stability; suggested stocks for retail attention include PT Barito Pacific Tbk (BRPT) and PT Bukit Uluwatu Villa Tbk (BUVA) for swing trades offering 6-7% gains with measured risks.

The embarkation operations for the 1447 Hijriah Hajj pilgrimage through Surabaya officially commenced on Wednesday, 22 April, with 760 prospective pilgrims from Probolinggo Regency divided into two flight groups departing from Juanda International Airport to Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The first group of 380 pilgrims took off at 09:30 WIB via Saudi Arabian Airlines, followed by the second group at 13:55 WIB, supported by optimal airport facilities and inter-agency coordination. This year's operations feature a pre-clearance immigration service by Saudi authorities at the airport to streamline arrivals in Saudi Arabia, amid ongoing regional tensions that have not deterred the pilgrims' determination to fulfil this pillar of Islam.

Indomobil Group, a major automotive distributor in Indonesia, has confirmed plans to introduce two Chinese car brands, Leapmotor and Hongqi, in the second half of this year, intensifying competition in the local market. Leapmotor focuses on intelligent electric vehicles, while Hongqi, China's oldest luxury brand historically used by state officials, is evolving into a global premium marque offering elegant designs in both conventional and electric variants. This move underscores the growing influx of Chinese automakers into Indonesia, aligning with the nation's push towards electric vehicle adoption and broader economic ties with China.

The National Amil Zakat Agency (Baznas) has delivered free health services, including blood pressure and glucose checks along with consultations, to 97 students at SMP Negeri 27 Pesawaran in Lampung, while also educating them on the dangers of smoking. This initiative, part of Baznas's broader efforts through its Rumah Sehat Baznas programme, aims to promote healthy living from an early age and expand access to healthcare across Indonesia, with 38 such facilities already operational or under construction nationwide. By linking youth health to the nation's future, including the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045, the programme underscores the role of zakat, infaq, and sedekah in enhancing public welfare beyond economic aid.

A land dispute over the ownership of the site above Gong Cave, a key tourist attraction in Pacitan, East Java, has led to a Rp20 billion compensation demand from the heirs of the original owner after 32 years of utilisation without payment. The Pacitan Regency Government, through its Tourism, Youth, and Sports Office, has expressed openness to dialogue and consultation to resolve the issue amicably, emphasising the shared goal of preserving the site's sustainability and economic benefits for the local community. Officials plan to conduct studies on the land's status and layout to clarify the long-standing matter.

Indonesia's job market is facing intense competition in the first quarter of 2026, with 12 job seekers vying for each vacancy, exacerbated by over 8,000 layoffs and a surge in job search activity on platforms like OLX. While popular positions such as administrative roles and sales dominate both applications and openings, opportunities remain concentrated in regions like Jabodetabek and Java. To address this, OLX launched an online job fair in April 2026 offering over 3,000 positions, highlighting the need for faster recruitment processes and stronger efforts to create new jobs in the real sector to mitigate ongoing imbalances.

The Indonesian government, through Pertamina, has raised prices for non-subsidised fuels like Pertamax Turbo and Dexlite, as well as non-subsidised LPG, in response to global energy price surges driven by Middle East geopolitical tensions. In Tasikmalaya, the Deputy Mayor has switched to a more fuel-efficient official vehicle to manage rising operational costs, urging officials to adapt their lifestyles amid economic pressures. Small and medium enterprises, such as a Jakarta eatery owner, are also grappling with higher LPG costs, highlighting the broader strain on the economy.

Indonesia's Minister of Social Affairs, Saifullah Yusuf (Gus Ipul), is implementing a mandatory energy-saving programme every Thursday at the Ministry of Social Affairs, requiring all employees to forgo fossil fuel vehicles in favour of public transport, electric vehicles, or cycling. The initiative aims to enhance fuel efficiency, promote healthier lifestyles, and reduce costs, with initial estimates showing nearly Rp100 million in fuel savings alone. Additionally, the ministry is trialling work-from-home arrangements on Fridays to further measure energy conservation benefits.

The price of Antam gold bars dropped by Rp 50,000 on Wednesday, 22 April 2026, reaching Rp 2,830,000 per gram, with the buyback price also declining to Rp 2,640,000 per gram. Transactions are subject to taxes under PMK Number 34/PMK.10/2017, including a 0.45% income tax for NPWP holders on purchases and 1.5% on buybacks exceeding Rp 10 million. This fluctuation highlights the volatility in the precious metals market, influencing investor decisions in Indonesia's financial landscape.

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, has pledged to lead the Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) with a focus on thriftiness, superior service delivery, and zero tolerance for corruption, aiming to enhance integrity and efficiency in operations. He emphasised that cost-saving measures should not compromise service quality but rather improve it, while committing to strict enforcement of rules and sanctions against violations. Initiatives include optimising online meetings, limiting official vehicle use, promoting public and electric transport, wise energy consumption, and prohibiting unofficial vendor meetings to foster a more professional and transparent institution trusted by the public.

The Indonesian government is revisiting plans to impose Value-Added Tax (VAT) on toll road services as part of its strategy to broaden tax revenues, targeting implementation by 2028 according to the Directorate General of Taxes' (DJP) 2025-2029 strategic plan. This initiative echoes a similar policy nearly enacted in 2015, when regulations were issued for a 10% VAT effective from 1 April, only to be abruptly cancelled due to untimely circumstances following ministerial consultations. The 2015 reversal, announced by then-Finance Minister Bambang Brodjonegoro, underscores ongoing challenges in taxing infrastructure services to bolster state income without disrupting public access.

Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission XI has urged close monitoring of subsidised fertiliser distribution by PT Pupuk Indonesia, particularly in underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost (3T) regions, to ensure affordability and support farmers' incomes amid ample supplies. Members praised Presidential Regulation No. 113 of 2025 for simplifying distribution, enhancing accessibility, and strengthening financial accountability, which has shifted the dynamic so that fertiliser now awaits farmers rather than vice versa. This policy is seen as crucial for bolstering food self-sufficiency by covering more commodities and maintaining supply stability despite geopolitical challenges.

The Jakarta Smart Card (KJP) programme enables beneficiaries to register online for grocery queues via mobile devices, eliminating the need for early morning visits or crowding at locations. The process involves accessing the official website, inputting personal details to obtain a digital ticket valid for redemption the following day, with registrations limited to one per NIK daily between 7:00 and 17:00 WIB. This digital initiative streamlines access to essential foodstuffs for low-income families, ensuring efficient distribution while requiring participants to present original KJP, ID copies, and the queue ticket upon collection.

Global gold prices dropped over 2 percent on Tuesday, reaching a more-than-week low of $4,712.04 per ounce, driven by a strengthening US dollar and rising 10-year Treasury yields amid anticipation of US-Iran talks. Analysts attribute the decline to mixed signals on the Iran situation boosting energy prices and inflation fears, potentially leading central banks to maintain high interest rates longer, which diminishes gold's appeal despite its safe-haven status. Other precious metals like platinum and palladium also weakened in tandem.

PT Chandra Asri Pacific Tbk, through its subsidiary, has transferred its entire stake in PT Chandra Capital Indonesia to PT Chandra Environmental Solution, an affiliate within the Chandra group, to enhance business synergies, optimise assets, and support sustainable expansion. The transaction, signed on 17 April 2026, adheres to fair market practices and is disclosed to the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Looking ahead, the company anticipates strong domestic growth aligned with a projected 5.4% economic expansion in 2025, while advancing infrastructure capabilities, including a new 12,000 m³ bitumen tank, to reduce import reliance and bolster national supply chains.