Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 April 2026

Showing 1,551-1,600 of 1,736 articles

Ministry of Religious Affairs Never Issued Policy on Managing Mosque Funds

The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has firmly denied circulating social media claims that the government plans to take over the management of mosque funds, labelling them as hoaxes. Officials clarified that no such policy exists and that mosque treasuries remain under the authority of local mosque boards, such as the Dewan Kemakmuran Masjid (DKM), to ensure transparency and independence. The ministry urged the public to verify information through official channels to combat disinformation.

From Prison to Stigma: The Cycle That the National Criminal Code Seeks to Break

Indonesia's new National Criminal Code (KUHP) aims to reform criminal justice by shifting focus from solely imprisonment to alternative punishments and addressing recidivism. Deputy Minister of Law Eddy Hiariej highlights how societal stigma against ex-convicts hinders their reintegration, often driving them back to crime due to persistent negative labelling. This approach recognises recidivism as a societal failure, emphasising the need for community acceptance to break the cycle of reoffending.

KPK: Regional Heads' THR Distribution to Forkopimda Widespread in Several Regions

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has revealed that the practice of regional heads distributing Eid al-Fitr bonuses (THR) to members of the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda) is widespread across various parts of Indonesia, often uncovered through sting operations. Specific cases highlighted include those in Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu; Cilacap, Central Java; and Tulungagung, East Java, involving alleged bribes and improper distributions. The KPK is intensifying investigations into these financial flows to curb corruption within local government structures, underscoring ongoing efforts to ensure accountability in public administration.

CELIOS Proposes Wealth Tax, Could Fund 180 Million BPJS PBI Recipients and Make KRL Free

The Center of Economic and Law Studies (CELIOS) advocates for fiscal reforms including a wealth tax on Indonesia's richest individuals to address economic inequality and reduce oligarchic influence in policy-making. A 2% tax on the 50 wealthiest could generate Rp142.2 trillion annually, sufficient to fund extensive social programmes such as free healthcare for 180 million BPJS recipients, subsidised housing, education, and public transport enhancements. This approach, supported by 89.77% of surveyed Indonesians, aims to enhance fiscal resilience without burdening the middle and lower classes.

Phenomenon of the Corruptor's 'Circle' to Hide Dirty Money

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified a pattern where the inner circles of corrupt officials, including family members, trusted aides, and political allies, actively participate in concealing and laundering illicit funds. This 'circle' phenomenon is evident in multiple cases across regional governments like Pekalongan, Bekasi, and Tulungagung, where relatives and confidants facilitated bribery, project rigging, and money flows. KPK, supported by the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), continues to trace these networks, highlighting how corruption operates as an ecosystem that undermines public office neutrality and fuels political financing.

Danantara's Response to MSCI's Follow-Up Announcement

Pandu Sjahrir, Chief Investment Officer of Danantara, views the latest announcement from Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) regarding a warning to Indonesia as a positive development, indicating close monitoring of ongoing capital market reforms. He emphasised that MSCI's intent to oversee future progress serves as encouragement for continued reforms, with no need for government intervention as market mechanisms are functioning well, evidenced by positive stock price trends. The announcement acknowledges transparency reforms implemented by the Financial Services Authority (OJK), Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), and Central Securities Depository (KSEI), underscoring the importance of sustained regulatory efforts in enhancing Indonesia's market attractiveness to global investors.

Taj Yasin's Message to Hajj Pilgrims for 2026: Maintain Health and Regional Reputation

Vice Governor Taj Yasin of Central Java urged the first batch of Hajj pilgrims departing from Solo to prioritise their health, unity, and the good reputation of their region and Indonesia while in the Holy Land, emphasising adherence to guidance from Hajj supervisors. This year's quota for Central Java stands at 34,122 pilgrims, transported via Solo and Yogyakarta embarkation points, with comprehensive health checks ensuring fitness for the 40-day pilgrimage. The improved services, including the Makkah Route and activated Nusuk cards, aim to facilitate a smoother journey, highlighting government efforts to support this significant religious undertaking.

With Abundant State Budget Reserves, Purbaya: So I'm Staying Calm

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has affirmed that Indonesia's state budget (APBN) remains robust amid economic pressures from the Middle East conflict driving up energy commodity prices, with unused reserves of Rp 423 trillion serving as a last line of defence. He stated that the government can manage subsidy costs for domestic fuel without depleting these reserves, allowing for deficit control below 3% of GDP through spending efficiencies and reallocations. Purbaya also turned down loan offers worth US$25-30 billion from the IMF and World Bank, underscoring the strength of Indonesia's fiscal capacity for 2026.

Eight Ministry of Manpower Civil Servants Face Verdict in Alleged Foreign Worker Permit Extortion Case

Eight defendants, including former and current officials from Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower, are scheduled to receive their verdict in a corruption trial at the Central Jakarta Corruption Court for allegedly extorting Rp135.29 billion from agents handling foreign worker permits between 2017 and 2025. Prosecutors have demanded prison sentences ranging from four to nine and a half years, fines up to Rp700 million, and restitution payments totalling over Rp134 billion, highlighting systemic corruption in the processing of foreign labour approvals. This case underscores ongoing efforts to combat graft within government agencies responsible for labour regulations.

Haunted by Geopolitical Uncertainty - Mirae Says Investment Opportunities Remain Open

Despite global interest rate dynamics and geopolitical uncertainties, including Middle East tensions impacting trade routes, Mirae Asset Sekuritas highlights that Indonesia's solid domestic fundamentals keep investment opportunities viable in the market. The firm notes limited room for interest rate easing amid inflation pressures, yet projects 5% economic growth for 2026, with strong recovery in the telecommunications sector driven by record ARPU and emerging GPU-as-a-Service contributions. Mirae recommends an overweight stance on telecom stocks, particularly EXCL, and suggests selective value investing in discounted big cap and commodity shares amid market volatility.

BRI Danareksa Sekuritas Becomes the Most Active Securities Firm

BRI Danareksa Sekuritas (BRIDS) has been awarded the Most Active Securities Firm for fixed income transactions at the 2025 SPPA Awards by the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI), highlighting its dominant role in the national bond market with Rp275 trillion in government bonds and Rp49 trillion in corporate bonds traded throughout the year. This achievement underscores a massive 461.6% growth in SPPA transaction values to Rp1,382 trillion, driven by increased market liquidity needs and a shift towards transparent trading mechanisms. Looking ahead, BRIDS plans to enhance its capabilities to support ongoing expansion in Indonesia's bond market amid evolving interest rate dynamics.

Foreign Investors Aggressively Buy EMAS to BBNI as IHSG Continues Correction

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) extended its decline on Tuesday, closing at 7,559.38, down 0.46% or 34.73 points, with trading value reaching Rp18 trillion. Despite the market downturn, foreign investors remained active buyers, purchasing shares worth Rp380.73 billion, with the top net buys including PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk. (EMAS) at Rp129.50 billion and PT Bakrie & Brothers Tbk. (BNBR) at Rp113.21 billion. This activity highlights continued foreign interest in select Indonesian stocks amid broader market weakness.

New Regulation: Comparison of EV Water Tax, Atto 1, and Brio Satya

The Indonesian central government has introduced a new regulation through the Ministry of Home Affairs, ending the exemption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from motor vehicle tax (PKB) and motor vehicle ownership transfer fee (BBNKB), as outlined in Ministry Regulation No. 11 of 2026. Popular models like the Wuling Air EV and BYD Atto 1 now face annual taxes of approximately Rp 3.78 million and Rp 4.95 million respectively, excluding local incentives, while local governments retain authority to offer tax reductions or exemptions. This policy shift aims to standardise taxation for electric vehicles while allowing regional flexibility, potentially influencing EV adoption rates in urban areas.

Prabowo Receives Report from Dudung on Defence Developments

President Prabowo Subianto met with his Special Advisor on National Defence, retired General TNI Dudung Abdurachman, at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, to receive updates on geopolitical dynamics and advancements in defence and security. During the meeting, Prabowo issued strategic directives for future geostrategic steps. Dudung, who was summoned by the president's aide the previous evening, expressed readiness to provide advice on national and international defence issues, highlighting the president's habit of seeking input from his advisors.

Official! New Price List for 3 kg, 5.5 kg-12 kg LPG, Effective 22 April

PT Pertamina has adjusted the prices of non-subsidised LPG products, including 5.5 kg and 12 kg cylinders, effective from 18 April, with increases ranging from Rp17,000 to Rp36,000 depending on the region, while the subsidised 3 kg LPG remains stable at around Rp19,000-Rp22,000. The adjustment aims to balance international market conditions, global energy prices, and the rupiah exchange rate to ensure sustainable domestic supply. Pertamina urges affluent consumers to switch to non-subsidised options to optimise government subsidies for those in need.

Sexual Harassment Cases on Trains Still Occurring: How to Address Them?

Sexual harassment incidents on Indonesian trains persist, with PT Kereta Api Indonesia recording 21 reports in the first quarter of 2026, predominantly on commuter lines during peak hours. The company treats each case seriously despite their low percentage of total customer feedback, implementing measures like CCTV analytics, blacklisting offenders, legal cooperation, and a revamped ticketing system allowing women to select seats near other women. Officials urge passengers to report incidents to foster safer public transport environments.

KPK: Corruption by Regional Heads for Forkopimda THR Widespread in Many Areas

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has identified widespread corruption involving regional heads providing holiday allowances (THR) to local leadership coordination forums (Forkopimda) across several Indonesian districts. This practice, uncovered through multiple sting operations in 2026, includes cases in Rejang Lebong, Cilacap, and Tulungagung, with ongoing investigations into fund flows and potential gratifications. The revelations highlight systemic graft in local governance, prompting continued KPK scrutiny to curb such abuses.

80% Progress, Lenangguar-Lunyuk Road Project Targeted for Completion Next Month

The Lenangguar-Lunyuk road project in Sumbawa, West Nusa Tenggara, has reached 80% completion after overcoming delays caused by an initial contractor's failure and adverse weather conditions, with a budget exceeding Rp 19 billion. Spanning approximately 60 km, this vital route serves as a key access for corn production in Lunyuk and essential services like education and healthcare, aiming for full completion in May 2026. Authorities are accelerating work to minimise disruptions to local mobility and economy, with penalties to be imposed on the contractor for delays once finished.

Practical Food Innovations to Address Hajj Service Challenges

In the challenging conditions of Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina during Hajj, where pilgrims face limited access to cooking facilities and tight schedules, practical food innovations are essential for ensuring sustenance and maintaining worship. BRIN Head Arif Satria highlighted at a coordination meeting for 2026 Hajj food preparedness that advancements in ready-to-eat food technology, including flame-free heating and flexible packaging, address these issues by providing safe, high-quality meals in large quantities. This initiative underscores the government's role in mitigating distribution risks that could impact health and religious observance.

Wall Street Weakens: Iran Conflict Overshadows Positive US Economic Data

US stock markets closed lower on Tuesday despite an initial rally, driven by heightened investor concerns over escalating uncertainty in the Iran conflict, which overshadowed robust economic indicators. Key indices such as the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all declined, with officials from Iran signalling conditional willingness for talks but rejecting any form of capitulation. Meanwhile, March retail sales surged 1.7%, the largest increase since March 2025, boosted by fuel price hikes linked to the tensions, highlighting the tension between geopolitical risks and a solid economic backdrop.

Deputy Chair of DPR Commission V Calls for Cancellation of Toll Road VAT Proposal

Wakil Ketua Komisi V DPR RI, Syaiful Huda, has urged the government to postpone or cancel the proposed Value Added Tax (VAT) on toll roads during the concession period managed by Toll Road Business Entities (BUJT), arguing it would impose a double burden on the public. He emphasised that toll fees during concessions already serve to repay investor investments, making additional VAT unfair, and suggested reconsidering the policy only after concessions end with reduced tariffs focused solely on operational costs. Huda called for transparent studies involving the public and academics to ensure efficiency and avoid overlapping levies that harm society and businesses.

Eight Defendants in TKA Permit Extortion Case at Ministry of Manpower Face Verdict Hearing

Eight officials from Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower are set to face a verdict hearing in Jakarta's Corruption Court on Wednesday for their alleged involvement in extorting Rp135.29 billion from companies and agents processing foreign worker permits between 2017 and 2025. Prosecutors have demanded prison sentences ranging from four to nine and a half years, along with substantial fines and restitution orders, highlighting systemic corruption in the government's labour permit issuance process.

Russian Analyst: The Iran War is the Greatest Defeat for the US in History

A Russian analyst, Vasili Zaitsev, argues that the ceasefire in the American-Israeli war against Iran represents a humiliating defeat for Washington, comparable to the 1956 Suez Crisis that marked the decline of British imperial power. Despite entering the conflict with ambitious promises to overthrow the regime and seize enriched uranium, the US failed to achieve its objectives, with Iran emerging stronger and able to impose its terms. Zaitsev highlights the political retreat of the US as a profound embarrassment, underscoring a historical moment of lost prestige.

Fuel Price Hike: Turbo Car Owners Shouldn't Risk Switching to Lower Octane

The recent surge in non-subsidised fuel prices in Indonesia, with Pertamax Turbo now at around Rp 19,400 per litre, is prompting vehicle owners to consider cheaper alternatives, but experts warn turbo engine users against using lower octane fuel. Such a switch can lead to engine knocking, reduced performance, poorer fuel efficiency, and long-term damage to components like pistons and valves due to the high pressures in turbocharged engines. This advice underscores the importance of adhering to manufacturer recommendations to avoid costly repairs amid economic pressures.

Wahana Interfood to Conduct Rights Issue - BCA Sekuritas

PT Wahana Interfood Nusantara Tbk (COCO) has approved a third rights issue (PMHMETD III) through an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders, planning to issue up to 10.678 billion new shares representing 75% of its post-issue paid-up capital, alongside up to 1.186 billion Series I warrants. The proceeds, after emission costs, will primarily fund business expansion and investments, including the acquisition of a confectionery and snacks production and distribution company, with the remainder allocated to operational working capital such as raw materials, marketing, and employee training. This corporate action, set for 10-17 July 2026, may dilute non-participating shareholders by up to 76.92%, aiming to bolster the company's growth in the food sector.

World Wary of Indonesia's Debt, Purbaya's Deputy Assures Below Rp600 T

The Indonesian government has budgeted nearly Rp600 trillion for debt interest payments in 2026, raising concerns from global rating agencies like S&P, which flags the ratio exceeding 15% of state revenues as a risk. Suminto, Director General of Financing and Risk Management at the Ministry of Finance, assured that actual spending will be managed below the allocation through careful control of exchange rates and yields. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa responded to S&P's warning by committing to ongoing monitoring to ensure economic growth boosts revenues and maintains fiscal health.

DPR Speaker: Party Communication on Election Law Revision is Open

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has assured that political party elites are actively engaging in open communications, both formal and informal, regarding the revision of the 2017 Election Law, even as the DPR has not yet formally discussed its substance. While acknowledging the time constraints, Puan emphasised that the revisions aim to enhance the quality of democracy by ensuring elections are honest, fair, and beneficial to the nation. Commission II member Ahmad Doli Kurnia Tandjung urged for prompt action to address Constitutional Court rulings, warning that delays until early 2027 would be too late to provide legal certainty for the upcoming democratic process.

BRI KUR 2026 Table for IDR 100 Million Loan: Latest Instalments Starting from IDR 1.9 Million per Month

The KUR programme from Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) remains a popular choice for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to expand their operations, offering low interest rates of around 6% per annum and flexible tenors up to five years. A simulation for a IDR 100 million loan indicates monthly instalments starting from IDR 1.9 million, though actual amounts may vary based on branch policies, additional fees, and credit assessments. Understanding these repayment simulations is crucial for maintaining stable cash flow and avoiding operational burdens on businesses.

US-Iran Negotiations Open, Oil Prices Fall

Global oil prices declined sharply on Tuesday as hopes grew for imminent US-Iran peace talks that could restore energy supplies from the Middle East, reversing the previous day's surge triggered by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz and US seizures of Iranian vessels. Brent crude fell 1% to $94.53 per barrel, while WTI dropped 1.72% to $88.07 per barrel, with analysts from Citi anticipating a potential memorandum of understanding or ceasefire extension this week, though risks of prolonged disruptions remain if negotiations fail. The situation highlights ongoing tensions affecting the vital shipping route that carries about one-fifth of the world's oil supply.

5 Key Characteristics of the Lower Class, Do You Have Them?

The Indonesian government, under President Prabowo Subianto, is focusing on poverty reduction, with extreme poverty rates reaching their lowest point, as highlighted in a recent World Economic Forum speech. Drawing from economic indicators, five main traits define lower and lower-middle class individuals: inadequate housing, low-skill or manual jobs with minimal benefits, lack of savings or retirement plans, constrained lifestyle choices due to budgeting limitations, and limited access to higher education. This analysis underscores the systemic barriers to upward mobility and the importance of financial stability in social stratification.

S&P Will Not Change Indonesia's Credit Rating for the Next Two Years

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that S&P Global Ratings will maintain Indonesia's BBB credit rating with a stable outlook for the next two years, following discussions in New York. This assurance counters earlier concerns about vulnerability in Southeast Asia and refutes any imminent downgrade in June, attributing the stability to explanations of the national economy and government policies. However, S&P has highlighted risks from the government's debt interest payments exceeding 15% of revenue, reaching 19% this year amid rising totals from Rp 488.4 trillion in 2024 to nearly Rp 600 trillion in 2026, underscoring the need for fiscal prudence.

KPK Assesses Provision of THR by Regional Heads to Forkopimda as Widespread

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has observed widespread instances of regional heads distributing Eid al-Fitr bonuses (THR) to local coordination forums of regional leadership (forkopimda) across Indonesia, uncovered through several sting operations. Cases highlighted include those in Rejang Lebong, Bengkulu; Cilacap, Central Java; and Tulungagung, East Java, with the KPK committing to further trace financial flows in these corruption probes. This trend underscores ongoing efforts to combat graft in local governance, with three hand-catch operations conducted this year alone.

OJK: MSCI Acknowledges Indonesia's Capital Market Reforms but Holds Index Changes Until June 2026

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revealed that MSCI Inc. recognises various reforms in Indonesia's capital market, as outlined in its latest assessment, which boosts global investor confidence despite no immediate index adjustments. While MSCI praised enhancements in transparency, share ownership disclosure, and free float requirements, it will maintain current policies in its May 2026 review, including no increases in the Foreign Inclusion Factor or additions to the MSCI Investable Market Index. The focus now shifts to the June 2026 Market Accessibility Review, where OJK remains optimistic that sustained reforms will enhance market accessibility and attractiveness for investors.

7 Alternative Middle East Oil Routes Capable of Replacing Hormuz?

Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz highlight the fragility of the global energy market, with 20-25% of seaborne oil trade passing through this vital chokepoint daily. The International Energy Agency has described the current situation as the largest oil supply disruption in history, prompting producers to rely on alternative pipelines and routes across Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iraq, Iran, and Oman, though these options lack the capacity to fully substitute Hormuz. Analysts warn that any prolonged interruptions will continue to destabilise global energy prices due to the strait's strategic importance.

Media: Wealth of Indonesia's 50 Richest People Exceeds State Budget

The Center of Economic and Law Studies (CELIOS) has released a report highlighting severe economic inequality in Indonesia, revealing that the combined wealth of the country's 50 richest individuals surpasses the national budget and equals one-fifth of the GDP. This wealth, primarily derived from extractive industries exploiting natural resources, has grown significantly from Rp 2,508 trillion in 2019 to Rp 4,651 trillion, while daily wages for workers have barely increased, underscoring a systemic reproduction of inequality across generations. The report criticises the government's focus on GDP growth above five percent, arguing it ignores distribution and benefits only a small elite, with projections indicating that without structural changes, this wealth will soon match that of 111 million Indonesians.

Humanities yesterday: Kartini Day highlights to the ratification of the Domestic Workers Protection Act

On 21 April, Indonesian officials and lawmakers marked Kartini Day by emphasising collaborative efforts to empower women, ensuring equal access to education, and mutual support among women to build a stronger nation towards the 2045 golden generation. The day also saw the ratification of the Domestic Workers Protection Act (UU PPRT), hailed by the Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection as a significant step by the state to guarantee fair wages, social security, and protection from violence and discrimination for domestic workers. These developments underscore Indonesia's ongoing commitment to gender equality and labour rights within its social policy framework.

Local Battery Production: Will Toyota Hybrid Cars Become Cheaper?

PT Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (TMMIN), in partnership with CATL, has begun local production of battery cells and modules for hybrid vehicles, boosting the domestic content (TKDN) from 8% to 80% and enhancing Indonesia's industrial capabilities. While this production efficiency could support lower vehicle prices, final pricing remains determined by market mechanisms and distributor PT Toyota Astra Motor (TAM). The initiative also paves the way for broader development of electric vehicles (BEVs) in Indonesia, aligning with Toyota's phased investment strategy based on market scale.

5 Corporate Strategies to Leverage Indonesia-China Relations Opportunities Amid...

Amid escalating global geopolitical tensions and US trade tariffs, Indonesia's strategic position in Asia offers robust growth prospects, particularly through deepening economic ties with China. Bank DBS recommends five strategies for corporations, including diversifying markets and supply chains to mitigate risks, and managing foreign exchange volatility through hedging to maintain competitiveness in cross-border business. These approaches aim to enhance resilience and capitalise on regional integration in trade and investment.

Gambir Station Becomes Foreign Tourists' Favourite Through 2026

Stasiun Gambir has emerged as the most popular departure station for foreign tourists on long-distance trains during the first quarter of 2026, recording 20,881 passengers from that station alone and a total of 129,105 across all stations. This marks a steady increase from 26,225 in Q1 2022 to the current figure, attributed to improvements in train comfort, ticket purchasing convenience, and journey reliability. The trend highlights the growing appeal of rail travel for experiencing Indonesia's diverse landscapes and cultural destinations like Yogyakarta, boosting tourism infrastructure.

Police Seize 56,000 Illegal iPhones Worth Rp 225 Billion

Indonesian police from Bareskrim Polri's Satgas Gakkum Lundup raided PT TSL and five warehouses in Jakarta, seizing 56,557 iPhones valued at Rp 225.2 billion, along with other Android phones and spare parts totaling Rp 235 billion in illicit imports from China. Two suspects, DCP and SJ, were named for their roles in importing non-new devices without SNI certification, as authorities expand efforts to curb smuggling and protect national economic interests. This operation underscores Polri's commitment to enforcing laws against financial leakages through under-invoicing and undeclared goods at all entry points.

Prabowo Receives Report on Q1 2026 Investment Realisation Meeting Target

President Prabowo Subianto has received a report from Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Perkasa Roeslani indicating that investment realisation in the first quarter of 2026 reached Rp498.79 trillion, surpassing the Rp497 trillion target with a 7.22% year-on-year increase. This achievement created 706,569 jobs, a 18.93% rise from the previous year, with domestic and foreign investments nearly equal and balanced distribution between Java and outer islands. Top investor countries include Singapore, Hong Kong, China, the US, and Japan, focusing on sectors like basic metals, mining, housing, and telecommunications, supporting an ambitious five-year target of over Rp13,000 trillion from 2025-2029.

Four US-Iran Scenarios

In a tense geopolitical standoff, the two-week ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump on 7 April is set to expire amid conflicting reports on the exact timing, with Iranian state media citing 00:00 GMT on Wednesday and Pakistani sources indicating 23:50 GMT the previous evening. As negotiations hosted by Pakistan in Islamabad prepare to convene, featuring high-profile figures such as US Vice President JD Vance and potential Iranian delegates like Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the US has issued stark warnings of military action targeting Iran's vital infrastructure if no agreement is reached, while the UN urges an extension to avert escalation. This precarious situation underscores the fragility of diplomacy under duress, with Iran rejecting talks framed as capitulation amid threats of a Strait of Hormuz blockade, highlighting broader implications for global stability and regional power dynamics.

Trump Extends Ceasefire but Maintains Blockade of Iranian Port

US President Donald Trump has indefinitely extended the ceasefire with Iran, originally set to expire on 22 April 2026, while directing the military to continue blockading Iranian ports. This decision comes amid perceptions of a divided Iranian government, with Trump awaiting a unified proposal from Iranian leaders in ongoing negotiations facilitated by Pakistan's military chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The move highlights escalating tensions and diplomatic efforts to avert further conflict in the region.

Exclusive Insight: The Characteristics of Employees Sought by Companies

In a competitive job market, Indonesian companies are prioritising communication skills, adaptability, and a willingness to learn over academic qualifications, particularly for entry-level positions and fresh graduates. Insights from the Mega Career Expo Jobstreet reveal that firms like PT Chailease Finance Indonesia and PT Yakult seek communicative candidates for marketing roles and value soft skills for career progression. This shift signals broader opportunities for job seekers who demonstrate personal qualities and readiness to work, with salaries adhering to prevailing labour regulations above the minimum wage.

Purbaya Ready to Crack Down on Illegal Exporters, Numbers Out of Control

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has announced plans to implement an export duty on coal, enabling customs officials to inspect shipments and curb illegal exports and under-invoicing practices that have spiralled out of control. The measure aims to boost state revenue, particularly amid rising commodity prices, though the exact tariff rate and implementation timeline remain under review. Discussions are ongoing with mining stakeholders to ensure the policy benefits both industry and the nation.

Prosecutors' Demands Against Chromebook Defendant Ibrahim Arief Deemed Unfounded

The legal team of Ibrahim Arief, accused in the Chromebook procurement corruption case, has criticised the prosecutors' demands as lacking a strong legal basis and contradicting trial evidence. They highlight inconsistencies, such as the unproven Rp16.9 billion figure not mentioned in the indictment, and argue that the burden of proof has been wrongly shifted to the defendant despite over 50 witnesses failing to implicate him. This dispute underscores potential flaws in the prosecution's approach, raising questions about the fairness of the heavy sentencing sought against Arief, who is not proven to have received any funds.

Ibrahim Arief's Legal Team: 22.5-Year Prison Demand Inconsistent with Indictment and Evidence

The legal team of Ibrahim Arief has criticised the prosecutors' demand for a 22.5-year prison sentence in the Chromebook procurement corruption case, arguing that it lacks a strong legal basis and contradicts the indictment and trial evidence. They highlighted inconsistencies, such as the introduction of a Rp16.9 billion figure not present in the original charges, and emphasised that the burden of proof remains with the prosecution, not the defendant. The team called for the judges to deliver a fair verdict based on the facts presented during the trial, which involved over 50 witnesses and found no evidence of fund transfers to their client.

Land Certificates End Agrarian Conflicts for Women in Blitar

In Desa Soso, Blitar, East Java, female farmers have gained legal ownership of 83.85 hectares of land through the Ministry of Agraria and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency's (ATR/BPN) Agrarian Reform programme, ending years of uncertainty and conflicts with security forces. This certification has empowered women like Patma and Indra to confidently manage their farms, optimise crop production such as maize in partnership with PT Syngenta Indonesia, and improve family welfare, including funding children's education. The initiative highlights the broader significance of land rights in enhancing economic stability and social equity for rural women in Indonesia.

IHSG Projected to Rebound to 7,779, Check 5 Potential Profitable Stocks for Today

The Composite Stock Price Index (IHSG) is expected to rebound towards its nearest resistance level of 7,779 during Wednesday's trading session, following a 0.46% decline to 7,559.38 in the previous session. Analysts note that the index has filled the gap area between 7,527-7,598 and formed a hammer candle, signaling potential for an upward trend continuation with support levels at 7,488, 7,244, 7,042, and 6,838. Recommended stocks for potential gains include INDF (Hold, target 7,275), INKP (Trading Buy, buy 9,050-9,250, target 11,525), ISAT (Speculative Buy, buy 1,770-1,840, target 2,260), JPFA (Hold, target 2,790), and KLBF (Trading Buy, target 1,055), offering investors opportunities in a recovering market.

Batang's Industropolis SEZ Prepares Rail-Based Inland Port

The Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Industropolis in Batang, Central Java, has initiated a strategic project to develop a rail-based dry port in collaboration with state-owned enterprises including PT Kereta Api Indonesia and PT Pelabuhan Indonesia, following the ratification of the Spatial Planning Bill. This infrastructure aims to enhance national logistics efficiency by reducing distribution costs and transit times, integrating industrial production directly with rail transport to ports. Officials anticipate that the dry port will attract foreign investors, boost local employment, and position Batang as a key hub in Indonesia's industrial and logistics network.