Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 April 2026

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Purbaya Reveals No Instructions from Prabowo to Pay BoP Membership Fees

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that President Prabowo Subianto never instructed him to pay membership fees to the Board of Peace (BoP), an entity formed by Donald Trump, emphasising Indonesia's commitment is limited to deploying peacekeeping troops rather than financial contributions. Prabowo himself previously denied any pledge to contribute US$1 billion, noting Indonesia's absence from the founding donors' meeting in Washington DC. This stance underscores Indonesia's focus on non-monetary support for international peace initiatives amid concerns over fund allocation, including to Israel.

Police Reform Commission Still Awaiting Prabowo's Availability

The Commission for Accelerating Police Reform has completed its recommendations for more effective policing two months ago but is still waiting for President Prabowo Subianto to schedule a meeting to discuss them. Commission members Jimly Asshiddiqie and Mahfud MD revealed that despite letters and offers to send the document, Prabowo declined fearing leaks, highlighting delays in addressing key reforms. A key recommendation already announced is to eliminate sponsored admissions in Police Academy recruitment to ensure fairness and reduce dominance by officials' children.

PKB Urges Government to Promptly Issue Derivative Regulations for Domestic Workers Protection Law

The National Awakening Party (PKB) has called on the government to swiftly enact derivative regulations following the passage of the Domestic Workers Protection Law (UU PPRT), which grants legal recognition, rights, and safeguards to over 5 million domestic workers in Indonesia after two decades of advocacy. PKB Chair Luluk Nur Hamidah hailed the law as the best gift for Kartini Day, emphasising protections against exploitation, violence, and discrimination, alongside fair wages, social security, and complaint mechanisms. The legislation aligns with constitutional mandates and UN Sustainable Development Goals on decent work and gender equality, but effective implementation requires robust oversight, public education, and a societal shift towards respectful employer-employee relations.

Gold Prices Plunge Over 2%, Fall to Two-Week Low

Gold prices tumbled more than 2% on Tuesday, closing at a two-week low of US$4,711.67 per troy ounce, driven by a strengthening US dollar, rising Treasury yields, and mixed signals from Iran negotiations amid ongoing conflicts. The market is also closely watching the US Senate Banking Committee's hearing on Federal Reserve Chairman nominee Kevin Warsh, who advocates for policy shifts but denies promises to cut interest rates, heightening volatility in precious metals trading.

Breaks Through 50 Minutes! Chinese Humanoid Robot Shatters World Running Record

A Chinese humanoid robot developed by Honor has set a new benchmark in a Beijing half-marathon for robots, completing the race in 50 minutes and 26 seconds, surpassing the human world record of 57 minutes held by Jacob Kiplimo. This autonomous robot's achievement marks a significant improvement from last year's fastest time of two hours and 40 minutes, highlighting rapid advancements in robotics technology. The event, attended by 100 teams with 40% operating autonomously, underscores China's push in innovative tech, though some robots faced technical issues like falls and collisions.

Note: Schedule and Locations for Jakarta-Tangerang Toll Road Repairs

Jasa Marga, through Jasamarga Metropolitan Tollroad and PT Jasamarga Tollroad Maintenance, is conducting asphalt reconstruction works on the Jakarta-Tangerang Toll Road, which may cause traffic congestion in the coming days. Repairs on the Tangerang-bound direction include key points such as lane 2 from KM 19+725 to KM 19+785 and lane 1 at the Kunciran 1 Off Ramp, while Jakarta-bound works focus on areas around KM 23. Motorists are advised to exercise caution, follow traffic signs and on-site instructions, and anticipate delays despite works being scheduled outside peak hours.

Antam (ANTM), UBS, and Galeri 24 Gold Prices at Pegadaian, Tuesday 21 April 2026

Gold prices for Antam (ANTM) and UBS brands rose on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, as recorded by Pegadaian, while Galeri 24 prices showed variation. The increases were notable across various denominations, from 0.5 grams at Rp 1,550,000 (up Rp 21,000) to 100 grams at Rp 293,501,000 (up Rp 4,160,000) for Antam. This upward trend in domestic gold prices reflects ongoing market volatility and investor interest in precious metals as a safe-haven asset amid economic uncertainties.

Bank Mandiri Records Net Profit of Rp 15.4 Trillion

PT Bank Mandiri (Persero) Tbk reported a consolidated net profit of Rp 15.4 trillion for the first quarter of 2026, marking a 16.6% year-on-year increase, with strong profitability reflected in a 22.1% Return on Equity and a 19.7% Capital Adequacy Ratio. The bank's intermediation performance exceeded industry averages, with loan disbursements reaching Rp 1,530 trillion (up 17.4% YoY) and third-party funds growing to Rp 1,675 trillion (up 21.1% YoY), while maintaining excellent asset quality with a gross NPL ratio of 0.98%. This achievement underscores Bank Mandiri's disciplined expansion and synergy focus, contributing positively to the national economy.

DKI Provincial Government Partners with Baznas to Recruit 1,000 Empowered Mikrotrans Conductors

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government, in collaboration with the National Zakat Agency (Baznas), has launched the second phase of its programme to recruit 1,000 empowered Mikrotrans conductors, aiming to enhance community empowerment through training and capacity building in public transportation. Open to men and women aged 22 to 45 with relevant qualifications, the initiative provides comprehensive training, mentoring, and selection processes to ensure participants are technically skilled and possess strong work ethics, fostering an inclusive job ecosystem. This social investment is expected to improve human resources in Jakarta, expand employment opportunities, and support a professional, modern public transport system.

Foreign workers crackdown dents Indonesia's industrial zone appeal

Indonesia's recent immigration raids on foreign workers, including the detention of 78 nationals mostly from China at the Greenland International Industrial Center in West Java, are undermining the country's efforts to attract investment to its industrial zones. Experts highlight that reliance on foreign expertise in proprietary technologies, coupled with slow licensing processes, has led companies to bypass formal visa channels, raising security concerns in sensitive sectors like data centres and automotive industries. To maintain investor confidence and position Indonesia as a regional hub for technology and manufacturing, authorities must streamline visa procedures and enhance coordination between security enforcement and investment promotion.

Oil Prices Rise, Trade Minister: CPO Available, but Packaging is Expensive

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has attributed the recent rise in packaged cooking oil prices to the high cost of plastic packaging, while assuring that crude palm oil (CPO) supplies remain ample. National average prices for premium cooking oil have climbed to nearly Rp 22,000 per litre, prompting ongoing communications with plastic industry players to stabilise production using imported raw materials. The minister emphasised the need for distributors to adjust prices downward once production normalises, highlighting broader implications for essential commodity affordability amid global supply chain pressures.

Titiek Soeharto Attends Launch of Rote Hospitality Academy

Titiek Soeharto, Chair of Commission IV of the Indonesian House of Representatives, attended the launch of the Rote Hospitality Academy and the Yayasan Kesejahteraan Rote Peduli foundation at the Nihi Rote resort in Nusa Tenggara Timur. She praised the initiative for its potential to train local youth and enhance community welfare, expressing hopes that it will elevate Rote Island's international profile. The project, spearheaded by Panji Adhikumoro Soeharto of PT Bo’a Development, originated from a vision over 15 years ago to develop a world-class resort while preserving the natural environment and supporting local communities.

Yesterday's economy: PSEL project to B50 road testing for automotive

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, has stressed the urgent completion of waste-to-energy (PSEL) projects within seven weeks to tackle the national waste crisis, as per President Prabowo Subianto's directive, with potential central government takeover if delayed. The Agriculture Minister assured readiness in irrigation and fertiliser supplies to mitigate El Niño's impact on 2026 production, while food supplies for Indonesian Hajj pilgrims remain secure despite global geopolitical tensions. The government is advancing protections for domestic workers via a new bill and has scheduled the completion of B50 biodiesel road tests for the automotive sector by May 2026.

Official! US Sanctions 14 Iranian "Aides", Naming Turkey to UAE

The United States has imposed sanctions on 14 individuals and companies accused of aiding Iran's weapons procurement, targeting entities in Iran, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates amid efforts to rebuild Tehran's ballistic missile stockpiles following joint US-Israel strikes. The US Treasury highlighted Iran's increasing reliance on Shahed-series one-way attack drones to target American interests and regional energy infrastructure. President Donald Trump has indefinitely extended the ceasefire with Iran at Pakistan's request, providing space for ongoing peace negotiations.

Purbaya: New Rules Do Not Completely Change Electric Vehicle Tax

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has clarified that the new regulations on electric vehicle (EV) taxation do not alter the overall tax burden but merely shift the collection mechanism. Under the new Home Affairs Ministerial Regulation No. 11 of 2026, EVs are no longer exempt from motor vehicle tax (PKB) and motor vehicle transfer tax (BBNKB), though local governments retain the flexibility to provide incentives such as exemptions or reductions, potentially resulting in zero tax in some regions. This adjustment aims to refine fiscal schemes while supporting the adoption of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) through varied regional policies.

Global Conflicts Heat Up, Police Chief Orders Brimob to Full Alert

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has instructed all Brimob personnel to heighten their readiness in response to escalating global geopolitical tensions, particularly the conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. He highlighted the potential impacts on energy sectors, including national energy emergencies and efficiency measures in neighbouring countries, as well as rising prices for non-subsidised fuels in Indonesia, which could lead to domestic security challenges. The directive was given during a technical work meeting attended by around 7,000 personnel in Depok, emphasising the need for thorough preparation and equipment checks to maintain national stability.

PRR Task Force Hands Over Aid in Aceh Tamiang to Accelerate Reconstruction

The PRR Task Force for Post-Disaster Sumatra has delivered stimulus aid for repairing homes damaged by the hydrometeorological disaster caused by Cyclone Senyar Phase II in Aceh Tamiang, Aceh, as part of the central government's commitment to expedite rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts. The handover, led by Interior Minister Tito Karnavian and Coordinating Minister Pratikno, included symbolic assistance to 13 families and five fire pumps to the local government to support environmental recovery. This initiative aids over 5,900 affected households across four sub-districts, primarily those with minor damage, underscoring the state's presence in fostering social and economic recovery for the impacted communities.

391 Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims from First Batch of Pondok Gede Embarkation Depart for Holy Land

The first batch of 391 Indonesian Hajj pilgrims from Pondok Gede Embarkation in Jakarta departed for Madinah via Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Wednesday early morning, marking the start of the 2026 Hajj operations. The airport has prepared extensive facilities, including dedicated prayer areas for up to 1,000 people, four waiting lounges each accommodating 450 pilgrims, and the Makkah Route fast-track immigration service to streamline processes. Additional support includes medical services, wheelchair assistance, and 200 dedicated staff to ensure a safe and smooth departure for all pilgrims.

Repairs Underway on Jagorawi Toll Road, Several Lanes Temporarily Closed

Jasa Marga is conducting repairs on the Jakarta-Bogor-Ciawi (Jagorawi) toll road, including reconstruction and scrapping, filling, and overlay works to maintain service standards. Several lanes will be temporarily closed in both directions from 20 to 27 April 2026, potentially causing traffic congestion during peak hours. Motorists are advised to plan their journeys, ensure sufficient e-money balances, and check updates via Jasa Marga's official channels.

Earth Day: Bank Mandiri Launches Emission Calculator Feature in Livin'

Bank Mandiri is set to launch the Livin Planet feature in its Livin' by Mandiri app on Earth Day, 22 April 2026, enabling retail customers to calculate their carbon footprint, contribute to tree planting, and access greenhouse gas emission reduction certificates in collaboration with IDX Carbon. This initiative aims to boost public participation in environmental issues and aligns with the bank's sustainable business strategy, which saw its sustainable financing portfolio reach Rp320 trillion by March 2026, growing 8.8% annually. Amid strong financial performance, including a 16.6% year-on-year increase in net profit to Rp15.4 trillion in the first quarter of 2026, the bank is integrating sustainability into everyday customer behaviours to support broader ecological goals.

Here Are the Results of Purbaya's Visit to the US: Meeting 'Elephants' to Debating IMF-WB

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa returned from a US visit where he engaged with major global investors like BlackRock and Fidelity, successfully alleviating their concerns over Indonesia's fiscal policies and economic prospects. In Washington DC, he debated fiscal strategies with IMF and World Bank officials, rejecting debt offers while affirming Indonesia's financial buffers, and met with S&P, which assured the stability of Indonesia's BBB credit rating for the next two years amid energy market volatility. These interactions underscore Indonesia's resilient economic fundamentals despite global pressures from Middle East conflicts and rising oil prices.

Global Energy Turmoil, Malaysia Pushes Biodiesel and Fuel Savings

In response to prolonged volatility in the global energy market driven by geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, Malaysia's government is adopting anticipatory measures, including a gradual increase in biodiesel blending from B10 to B15 using palm oil-based fuel. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir highlighted the shift to a more adaptive, data-driven policy approach that integrates energy planning with inflation control and structural reforms. This strategy aims to enhance energy resilience without requiring major infrastructure investments, underscoring Malaysia's proactive stance amid permanent market instability.

Noel Ebenezer and Sultan Kemnaker Exchange Denials Over Requests for Billions and Ducati...

In a corruption trial involving alleged extortion in the issuance of K3 certificates, former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer, known as Noel, is accused of soliciting Rp 1 billion for operational needs shortly after his appointment, according to testimony from co-defendant Irvian Bobby Mahendro, who opted to become a witness. Mahendro detailed that the funds were collected from private companies providing occupational safety services and delivered indirectly through an intermediary named David. This revelation highlights ongoing disputes between defendants and underscores systemic issues in government fund handling within the Ministry of Manpower.

Deputy Chair of DPR Commission XIII Highlights 5 Crucial Points of Witness and Victim Protection Law, Urges Massive Socialisation

Wakil Ketua Komisi XIII DPR RI, Sugiat Santoso, has outlined five key points in the newly enacted Undang-Undang Pelindungan Saksi dan Korban (PSDK), emphasising expanded protections for witnesses, victims, perpetrators who testify, reporters, informants, and experts in criminal proceedings. The law establishes the Lembaga Perlindungan Saksi dan Korban (LPSK) as an independent state institution with regional representatives, mandates state compensation for victims via an endowment fund when perpetrators cannot pay, and allows for special task forces to handle protections. Sugiat stressed the importance of implementing the law effectively and called for widespread socialisation to ensure its reach to grassroots levels, strengthening institutional support for justice in Indonesia.

New Fed Boss Speaks Out, Time for BI to Decide Interest Rates' Fate Today

US Wall Street markets weakened amid uncertainties over a potential US-Iran peace deal, with President Trump extending the ceasefire to allow Tehran more time to submit proposals, while oil prices rebounded on hopes of resolution. Kevin Warsh, the nominee for Federal Reserve Chairman, assured the Senate of the central bank's independence from the White House during his confirmation hearing, denying any promises to cut interest rates at Trump's behest. These global developments, alongside Bank Indonesia's impending interest rate decision and MSCI impacts, are set to influence domestic market sentiments today.

Finance Minister Purbaya Rejects IMF and World Bank Loan Offer

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has rejected a loan offer worth US$25–30 billion from the IMF and World Bank during his recent visit to Washington D.C., citing Indonesia's robust fiscal buffers including a surplus of nearly US$25 billion. He emphasised that the government prioritises optimising domestic fiscal capacity before resorting to external financing, ensuring decisions are based on measured impacts rather than speculation. This move underscores Indonesia's financial resilience amid global economic uncertainties and may signal a cautious approach to international borrowing.

From 118 Plots, Only 58 Land Plots Freed for Pasar Minggu Through Road Project

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has attributed delays in constructing a road parallel to the railway tracks in Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta, to incomplete land acquisition for the Pasar Minggu Through Road project. As of 2025, only 58 out of 118 required land plots have been freed, with 59 still in process, including eight government-owned assets. Officials remain committed to completing the project to benefit the community once land acquisition concludes, urging public support for smooth progress.

President Receives Dudung at Palace to Discuss Geopolitical Dynamics

President Joko Widodo met with Special Presidential Advisor on National Defence, General (Ret.) Dudung Abdurachman, at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the latest developments in national defence and security amid evolving global geopolitical dynamics. The President received updates on the current situation and provided strategic directives to strengthen and enhance the national defence system for the nation's security. This meeting underscores the government's adaptive approach to global challenges and its commitment to maintaining national security stability.

Europe Divided! "Giants" Disagree, Effort to Block Israel Fails

European efforts to suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement through diplomatic and economic pressure have stalled due to insufficient support among member states during a key foreign ministers' meeting in Luxembourg. Countries like Spain, Ireland, and Belgium pushed for halting ties over concerns including Israeli settlements in the West Bank, humanitarian conditions in Gaza, and new death penalty laws, but major powers such as Germany and Italy resisted, favouring dialogue instead. This division highlights the EU's challenges in achieving consensus on foreign policy, despite Israel being its largest trading partner with bilateral goods trade reaching €42.6 billion in 2024, underscoring the economic stakes involved.

Puan Assures Election Bill Will Not Be Discussed Secretly

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has assured that discussions on the Election Bill (RUU Pemilu) will not be conducted secretly, emphasising ongoing political communications between parties that can be formal or informal, with the aim of ensuring fair and democratic elections. Deputy Speaker Sufmi Dasco Ahmad noted that deliberations are still in the internal simulation and study phase to avoid rushed decisions that could lead to Constitutional Court challenges. Commission II member Ahmad Doli Kurnia outlined 10 key issues for revision, including legislative election systems, parliamentary and presidential thresholds, seat allocations, and digitalisation, some mandated by recent court rulings, highlighting the bill's potential to address longstanding electoral flaws and enhance integrity.

OJK Chief Speaks Out on MSCI Announcement, Gives This Signal

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed MSCI's announcement on the free float assessment of Indonesian securities, highlighting reforms in transparency and market integrity implemented alongside the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) and the Indonesian Central Securities Depository (KSEI). OJK executives view this as a positive signal for Indonesia's capital market policies, with ongoing evaluations expected to enhance accessibility and investor appeal ahead of MSCI's May and June 2026 reviews. These efforts underscore OJK's commitment to deepening the market, boosting liquidity, and supporting national economic growth through sustained reforms.

Heavy Vehicles Banned from Crossing Peken Belayu-Kukuh Road in Tabanan

Authorities in Tabanan, Bali, have banned heavy vehicles from the Peken Belayu-Kukuh road due to ongoing landslides that worsen with heavy traffic, aiming to prevent further damage and potential accidents. Temporary barriers and rerouting via alternative paths through Marga subdistrict have been implemented by the Bali Provincial Public Works Department to manage traffic and contain water seepage. While inspections have been conducted, no firm timeline for repairs exists, raising concerns among locals about prolonged access disruptions and risks to nearby temples and businesses.

Puan Urges Government to Explain Reasons for Rise in Non-Subsidised Fuel Prices: Until When?

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has called on the government to provide transparency regarding the recent increase in non-subsidised fuel prices, demanding clear explanations for the hike and its duration. She emphasised the need for periodic evaluations to assess whether prices will continue to rise and urged preparations to mitigate impacts from the ongoing Iran-US conflict on Indonesia's fuel market. Pertamina has raised prices for products like Pertamax Turbo, Dexlite, and Pertamina Dex by significant amounts effective 18 April 2026, while maintaining prices for subsidised fuels and some non-subsidised variants.

Governor Khofifah releases the first batch of Hajj pilgrims from Surabaya embarkation

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa released the first batch of Hajj pilgrims (JCH) from Surabaya embarkation, consisting of 376 pilgrims from Probolinggo District plus four officials, who are scheduled to depart for Madinah early Wednesday. As the Coordinator of Hajj Service Officers (PPIH) for Surabaya, she expressed hopes for a smooth and safe journey for all pilgrims, noting that all travel documents, including Nusuk cards and luggage tags, are complete with no empty seats. Additional batches are set to arrive and depart throughout the day, underscoring the organised rollout of Indonesia's Hajj program under the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

Controversy Over JK Sermon Video Now Targets Ade Armando and Abu Janda

The controversy surrounding a clipped sermon video by former Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla (JK) at UGM Mosque, discussing 'martyrdom' in the Poso and Ambon riots, has escalated with a police report filed against political commentator Ade Armando and activist Permadi Arya (Abu Janda) for alleged incitement and provocation. The report, submitted by the Maluku Alliance of Professional Advocates (APAM) to Polda Metro Jaya, accuses them of spreading edited clips on social media that could incite negative views and hostility, potentially violating ITE Law and Criminal Code provisions. While Ade Armando denies editing the video and is prepared to face legal proceedings, Abu Janda dismisses the report as politically motivated revenge, as police review the evidence including full and clipped videos.

OJK: MSCI's Suspension of Rebalancing Triggers Capital Market Transparency

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has welcomed Morgan Stanley Capital International's (MSCI) decision to suspend the rebalancing of Indonesian stocks in May 2026, viewing it as a testament to the transparency and integrity of the domestic capital market. OJK highlighted key reforms such as enhanced share ownership transparency, investor classification granularity, and minimum free float requirements, which have garnered positive recognition from MSCI. This development signals a positive trajectory for Indonesia's policies, with OJK committing to consistent implementation to boost market accessibility and investability ahead of upcoming index and market reviews.

Debate Between Former Deputy Labour Minister Noel and "Sultan of Labour Ministry" on Intimidation and Pressure

In a heated courtroom exchange during a corruption trial at the Jakarta Corruption Court, former Deputy Minister of Manpower Immanuel Ebenezer (Noel) and Irvian Bobby Mahendro, known as the "Sultan of the Labour Ministry," clashed over allegations of intimidation. Bobby claimed Noel pressured him to falsely describe a Ducati motorcycle as borrowed during their detention at the KPK detention centre, while Noel denied any such coercion and illustrated what he considers true intimidation. Both are defendants in a case involving alleged extortion in the processing of occupational safety and health (K3) certificates, highlighting tensions within Indonesia's labour ministry.

Evicted Five Times, Kartini Emergency School in North Jakarta Persists for 36 Years

The Kartini Emergency School, founded in 1990 by twin sisters Sri Irianingsih and Sri Rossyati, has provided free education and meals to thousands of marginalised children in Jakarta despite being evicted five times due to development pressures. Growing from one location to multiple sites, the school once served over 3,000 pupils and earned a MURI record, operating in makeshift tents during relocations. In 2013, it secured a new site in Pademangan through government assistance, highlighting the enduring commitment to educational access for street children amid urban challenges.

EU Pressure Makes Palm Oil Traceability a Challenge

The European Union's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is imposing stringent traceability requirements on Indonesia's palm oil industry, demanding proof that products are deforestation-free and can be tracked from supermarket shelves back to their plantation origins. This shift positions the EU as a key influencer in the global palm oil trade, creating significant challenges for Indonesia, particularly for smallholder farmers who manage 42% of the country's palm oil areas and face hurdles in land legality, technical capacity, and economic incentives. Experts urge the Plantation Fund Management Agency (BPDP) to act as a catalyst by prioritising traceability readiness in its programmes to strengthen sustainable governance and maintain market access.

DKI Yesterday: Head of Environmental Agency Named Suspect to Non-Subsidised LPG Stock Secure

A compilation of key events in Jakarta on Tuesday highlights the designation of former Head of the Jakarta Environmental Agency, AK, as a suspect in a waste management corruption case at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Site, with the provincial government pledging to uphold legal processes. Other developments include Deputy Governor Rano Karno's call for broader support beyond funding for historical films to engage youth, the replacement of the DKI DPRD chairman by PKS with Suhud Aliyudin succeeding Khoirudin, adherence to MUI guidelines in handling invasive pleco fish in South Jakarta, and assurances from authorities that non-subsidised LPG stocks remain stable despite recent price adjustments. These stories underscore ongoing governance, environmental, and economic stability efforts in the capital.

Signing LoI on E-Voting, Kemendagri: Digitalisation of Elections is More Than Just Technological Transformation

The Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) has signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) with PT Inti Konten Indonesia (INTENS) to provide electronic voting (e-voting) technology, emphasising that the digitalisation of elections extends beyond mere technological upgrades to strategically enhance the quality of democracy in Indonesia. Head of the Domestic Policy Strategy Agency (BSKDN) Yusharto Huntoyungo stressed the importance of implementing digital systems while upholding the core principles of direct, general, free, secret, honest, and fair (Luber Jurdil) elections. The initiative includes developing asymmetric election schemes tailored to varying levels of digital maturity across regions, alongside policy recommendations for improving election systems from village to regional head levels.

Noel Ebenezer Denies Requesting Ducati and Rp 1 Billion from Sultan of Manpower Ministry

Former Deputy Minister of Manpower, Immanuel Ebenezer alias Noel, has denied allegations of soliciting a Ducati Scrambler motorcycle and Rp 1 billion in operational funds from Irvian Bobby Mahendro, Coordinator for Institutional and Personnel Affairs at the Ministry's Occupational Safety and Health Division. During a corruption trial at the Jakarta Corruption Court, Noel claimed that Bobby initiated discussions about his hobby of motorcycling, leading to the delivery of the Rp 600 million motorcycle purchased with non-technical funds from a private safety company. Noel also rejected claims of instructing an intermediary named David to demand the Rp 1 billion, swearing on his family that he never made such a request, highlighting ongoing scrutiny over potential graft in government procurement.

Banten Hajj Dormitory Begins Serving Prospective Hajj Pilgrims for 2026

The Grand El-Hajj Asrama Haji Banten in Tangerang City has commenced its inaugural operations, accommodating 9,192 prospective Hajj pilgrims from Banten Province divided into 24 flight groups from 21 April to 18 May 2026. This facility marks a significant step in enhancing the support services for Indonesian pilgrims undertaking the Hajj, a key religious obligation managed under government oversight. The opening underscores Indonesia's commitment to improving pilgrimage infrastructure amid growing demand for such services.

Three Protest Points in Jakarta Today: Beware of Traffic Jams from Gambir to Senayan

Three demonstrations are scheduled in Central Jakarta on Wednesday, involving groups such as Barikade Rakyat Cinta TNI and HIMMAH Legal Movement, with police deploying 537 personnel for security and situational traffic management around Monas and Senayan. Authorities urge the public to avoid these areas to prevent congestion and use alternative routes. This highlights ongoing public mobilisations in the capital, potentially linked to political or legal concerns.

Kioxia Launches Value-Oriented QLC-Based KIOXIA EG7 Series SSD for OEM PCs

Kioxia Corporation has unveiled the KIOXIA EG7 Series SSD, its first client solution utilising eighth-generation Quad-Level Cell (QLC) BiCS FLASH™ technology, offering performance comparable to TLC-based drives while reducing total cost of ownership for value-oriented laptops, notebooks, and desktops. The SSD delivers up to 1,000 KIOPS random read/write, 7,000 MB/s sequential read, and 6,200 MB/s sequential write speeds, supported by NVMe 2.0d and available in various M.2 form factors for enhanced system compatibility. Samples are currently provided to select OEM PC customers, with shipments of equipped PCs commencing in the second quarter of 2026.

Irony of the Manggarai Cycle Path, Turning into a Temporary Rubbish Dump Every Night

In Jakarta's Manggarai district, the designated cycle path along Jalan Dr. Saharjo has become an impromptu temporary rubbish collection point each night, severely disrupting cyclists and causing traffic congestion on the narrow road. Local residents and commuters report frequent blockages from piled-up waste and DLH trucks, exacerbating issues for Transjakarta buses and other vehicles, while cyclists like Dani face impassable routes in the evenings. This situation highlights ongoing challenges in urban infrastructure management, particularly in balancing waste collection with sustainable transport initiatives in densely populated areas.

Is the Government Really Planning to Manage Mosque Funds? Kemenag Provides Clarification

The Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) has debunked a viral hoax claiming the government intends to form and manage mosque fund accounts, stating that no such policy or plan exists. Spokesperson Thobib Al Asyhar clarified that circulating memes and videos featuring Minister Nasaruddin Umar are deliberate disinformation aimed at causing unrest, and management of mosque funds remains the responsibility of local mosque committees like the Dewan Kemakmuran Masjid (DKM). Kemenag urges the public to verify information through official channels to promote transparency and accountability in mosque administration without government intervention.

When Police Uncover Misuse of Subsidised Fuel and LPG Causing State Losses of Rp 243 Billion

Indonesian police from the Directorate of Specific Crimes at National Police Headquarters have uncovered a major case of misuse of subsidised fuel and LPG across several regions, resulting in state losses exceeding Rp 243 billion over just 13 days in April 2026. Operations led to the seizure of hundreds of thousands of litres of diesel and pertalite, thousands of LPG cylinders, and numerous vehicles, with perpetrators employing tactics like repeated purchases using fake plates and modified trucks to hoard and resell the subsidised products at market rates. Authorities vow to prosecute all involved, including any officials, under corruption laws to deter such practices and recover assets, highlighting ongoing challenges in safeguarding vital energy subsidies intended for the public.

Foreign Investors Snap Up SSMS, EMAS, and BNBR Shares Amid IHSG Weakness

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) closed lower on Tuesday following MSCI's announcement to suspend Indonesian stock rebalancing in May, yet foreign investors engaged in net buying worth Rp 473.93 billion across the market. The largest purchases targeted mid-cap stocks like PT Sawit Sumbermas Sarana Tbk (SSMS) at Rp 163.9 billion, PT Merdeka Gold Resources Tbk (EMAS) at Rp 129.5 billion, and PT Bakrie & Brothers Tbk (BNBR) at Rp 113.2 billion, which showed solid gains during the session. In contrast, foreign investors net sold major blue-chip stocks such as BBRI, BBCA, and TLKM, highlighting selective buying interest in smaller names despite broader market pressures.

Forestry Ministry: Forestry Ministerial Regulation No. 6 of 2026 Accommodates Local Communities

The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry has introduced Regulation No. 6 of 2026, which outlines procedures for carbon trading under greenhouse gas emission offset schemes in the forestry sector, particularly accommodating the interests of local communities around forests. This regulation simplifies proposal preparation for carbon development by allowing support from individual consultants, making it more accessible and promoting green business opportunities that enhance forest quality. As a follow-up to Presidential Regulation No. 110 of 2025, it broadens participation to include social forestry groups, indigenous peoples, community forest owners, and carbon environmental service managers, aligning with national commitments to reduce emissions and advance the green economy.