US President Donald Trump has extended the ceasefire with Iran indefinitely, just hours before the previous one expired, following a request from Pakistan acting as mediator in peace negotiations. This decision marks a shift from Trump's earlier threats of military action and comes amid reports of internal instability in Iran, including the assassination of key figures by US-Israeli operations. The extension allows for continued diplomatic talks in Islamabad, though the US naval blockade of Iranian ports persists, complicating efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace agreement.

The proposal to impose Value Added Tax (VAT) on toll road services, outlined in the Indonesian Tax Office's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, has reignited debates on fiscal fairness and its potential to increase national logistics costs. Krist Ade Sudiyono, Secretary General of the Indonesian Toll Roads Association, argues that this tax would create a double burden for users, who already finance infrastructure through toll fees, potentially undermining government efforts to lower logistics expenses. While operators act merely as tax collectors without financial gain, the policy risks reducing traffic volumes and raising consumer goods prices.

Lasarus, Chairman of DPR Commission V, has expressed strong opposition to the proposed imposition of Value Added Tax (VAT) on toll roads, arguing that it would ultimately burden toll road users amid uncertain geopolitical and economic conditions and rising fuel prices. The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has clarified that the plan, outlined in their 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, remains in the policy planning stage and is not yet implemented, with any future rollout to involve comprehensive studies and inter-ministerial coordination to ensure fairness and sustainability. This debate highlights tensions between expanding the tax base for fiscal development and protecting public affordability in Indonesia's infrastructure sector.

A family in South Tangerang is embroiled in a dispute over the purchase of a house valued at Rp 1 billion, where they paid Rp 840 million in instalments without a formal deed of sale, only to later have those payments reclassified as rental fees in a 2023 demand letter. The conflict arose from an informal verbal agreement with a trusted former owner, who also allegedly misused an additional Rp 60 million intended for certificate transfer without delivering the documents. This case highlights the risks of property transactions lacking official legal documentation in Indonesia, potentially leading to significant financial losses for buyers.

EU foreign ministers rejected a push to suspend the bloc's association agreement with Israel, with Germany and Italy playing key roles in blocking the proposal advanced by Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia. The opposition, rooted in calls for critical dialogue rather than punitive measures, dashed hopes amid growing concerns over Israeli actions in the West Bank and Gaza, including settler violence and new death penalty laws for Palestinians. This decision highlights divisions within the EU on foreign policy and the sensitivity of trade relations under human rights clauses in the 2000 agreement.

Indonesian House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has raised concerns over the trend where expert critiques of the government result in police reports, emphasising that while the law must be enforced fairly, criticism should be delivered courteously and ethically. She stressed the importance of mutual respect between critics and recipients, noting that constructive criticism aimed at improvement is more readily accepted. This comes amid reports against constitutional law expert Feri Amsari over his statements on food self-sufficiency, involving allegations of spreading false news and public incitement, which police have confirmed receiving but treat as standard procedure.

Iran has refused to attend talks in Pakistan, citing the US's "excessive demands" and recent actions like the hijacking of an Iranian merchant vessel in the Sea of Oman, which it views as a ceasefire violation. In response, US President Donald Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire at Pakistan's request, pending a unified proposal from Iran, while maintaining military readiness. This escalation highlights ongoing tensions in the Middle East, with Iranian officials warning of potential disruptions to regional oil production if neighbouring countries allow US attacks from their territories.

China's surging exports of robots and AI, highlighted at the Canton Fair in Guangzhou, are enabling global businesses to automate dangerous and repetitive tasks, addressing labour shortages and safety concerns in regions like Europe, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. With industrial robot exports rising 48.7% in 2025 and China becoming a net exporter for the first time, this shift is poised to reshape labour markets worldwide, potentially displacing some jobs while creating opportunities for new skills, according to experts and the World Economic Forum's projections. The technology's focus on human-machine collaboration underscores its role in enhancing productivity without widespread job destruction.

At the Canton Fair in Guangzhou, Chinese exporters are shifting from reliance on large Western orders to a more fragmented mix of smaller buyers from emerging markets like Southeast Asia and South America, amid declining US imports and geopolitical tensions. This adaptation reflects broader efforts to diversify beyond traditional markets, with companies tailoring products to local needs and adopting flexible management models to pursue niche opportunities. Economists note that while trial orders are increasing due to global uncertainty, the key challenge is whether these emerging markets can compensate for the lost scale of Western demand.

Google has reached a preliminary settlement in a class-action lawsuit accusing it of secretly collecting Android users' data without consent, agreeing to pay $135 million (approximately Rp 2.3 trillion) to compensate around 100 million affected users. Each eligible user could receive up to $100 (about Rp 1.6 million), though the exact amount depends on deductions for administrative costs, taxes, and legal fees, with undistributed funds potentially donated to approved organisations. The final approval hearing is set for 23 June 2026, and US users are urged to register their payment preferences on the official settlement website to claim compensation.

Indonesian House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has urged fair enforcement of the law in response to recent police reports against activists for their criticisms of the government, while emphasising that such critiques should be delivered civilly and respectfully. She highlighted the importance of mutual respect in political discourse, amid cases involving prominent figures like political expert Saiful Mujani, NU activist Islah Bahrawi, UNJ lecturer Ubedilah Badrun, and constitutional law expert Feri Amsari, who face charges of incitement or spreading false news. Human Rights Minister Natalius Pigai criticised these actions as potentially undermining the Prabowo-Gibran administration's democratic credentials, arguing that public opinions on policy should be countered with facts rather than legal threats.

The Governor of Lampung, Rahmat Mirzani Djausal, met with the Palestinian Ambassador to Indonesia, Abdalfatah A.K. Alsattari, to reaffirm the province's commitment to supporting the Palestinian people through concrete measures in education, economy, and humanitarian aid. Opportunities include access to education for Palestinian students, assistance with document processing for those from Gaza, business and investment prospects for Palestinian entrepreneurs, and direct collaborations between Lampung and Palestinian businesses. This meeting highlights Lampung's role in global humanitarian diplomacy, bridging moral solidarity with practical economic and educational partnerships to foster Palestinian self-reliance.

The article critiques the Indonesian public's tendency to frame Middle East conflicts through apocalyptic religious narratives, such as references to the Dajjal and end times, rather than engaging with the complex geopolitical, economic, and military realities involved. It highlights how social media amplifies simplistic eschatological interpretations, leading to emotional polarisation and neglect of factual analysis, including military budgets, alliances, and the global economic stakes like oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. Drawing on Islamic teachings, the piece urges a balanced approach that combines faith with rational strategy, warning against the manipulation of such narratives that obscure civilian suffering and true power dynamics.

President Prabowo Subianto received a phone call from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who expressed appreciation for Indonesia's initiation of urea fertiliser exports to Australia, starting with 250,000 tonnes. Indonesia is expanding its export markets to include India, the Philippines, Thailand, and Brazil, with total commitments reaching approximately one million tonnes, while ensuring domestic supply remains stable given national production of 7.8 million tonnes exceeds the 6.3 million tonnes needed locally. This measured approach aims to boost the national economy and strengthen Indonesia's role in the global supply chain without compromising farmers' needs.

US President Donald Trump has announced a decision to postpone a planned attack on Iran and extend the current ceasefire following a request from Pakistan's leadership, including Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This move comes as mediators in Pakistan await Iran's official response to participate in the second round of peace talks scheduled in Islamabad, amid a two-week truce set to expire soon. The extension aims to allow Iran to present a unified proposal, while the US military maintains readiness, highlighting the fragile diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions involving the US, Iran, and Israel.

The Indonesian National Police are providing mobile SIM renewal services in Klungkung, Badung, and Karangasem on 22 April 2026 to facilitate quick and convenient extensions for active SIM A and SIM C without visiting central offices. Services will operate at various locations such as Polsek Padangbai in Karangasem, Damkar Dalung and Mall Pelayanan Publik Puspem Badung, and in front of the Klungkung Regent's Office and Polsubsektor Nusa Penida, starting from 08:30 or 09:00 WITA until completion. Renewal fees are set at Rp80,000 for SIM A and Rp75,000 for SIM C under Government Regulation No. 60/2016, with requirements including KTP, original SIM, health and psychology certificates, and a photo, applicable only to non-expired licences.

A female Hajj pilgrim from the first flight group at Makassar Embarkation, originating from Soppeng Regency in South Sulawesi, has been unable to proceed with her journey to the Holy Land after medical checks revealed her pregnancy at just 10 weeks. According to regulations from the Ministry of Health, enforced by the Ministry of Religious Affairs, pilgrims are only permitted to travel if their pregnancy is between 16 and 24 weeks, leading to her automatic deferral to the 2027 Hajj season. This incident highlights the stringent health protocols in place to ensure pilgrim safety during the pilgrimage, potentially resulting in an empty seat for the departing flight.

Indonesian immigration authorities in Gorontalo have deported four Chinese nationals for violating their stay permits by collecting soil samples suspected to originate from a mining site in Buol Regency, Central Sulawesi. The individuals entered Indonesia on visitor and business visas but engaged in activities inconsistent with those permits, leading to their apprehension in a Gorontalo hotel along with evidence including passports, permits, and the samples. This case underscores Indonesia's strict enforcement of immigration regulations, particularly concerning foreign involvement in sensitive sectors like mining.

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the acceleration of investment regulation reforms by eliminating or simplifying rules deemed to hinder capital inflows, aiming to align with OECD standards and enhance Indonesia's competitiveness. This includes a comprehensive evaluation of technical approvals and benchmarking against ASEAN and international practices to foster a more investor-friendly environment that directly boosts quality job creation. With strong foreign interest from Japan, South Korea, and China, the government targets over Rp13,000 trillion in investments for 2025–2029, up from the previous Rp9,100 trillion, to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

PT Pertamina has significantly increased prices for three types of non-subsidised fuel effective 18 April 2026, with Pertamax Turbo rising to Rp 19,400 per litre, Dexlite to Rp 23,600, and Pertamina Dex to Rp 23,900, following global oil price fluctuations. Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia explained that non-subsidised fuels are market-driven under regulations since 2022, while subsidised ones remain government-controlled, urging the affluent not to encroach on subsidies for the needy. Netizens' reactions are mixed, with some complaining about higher vehicle costs and others calling for solidarity and understanding of the market mechanism.

US Vice President JD Vance remains in Washington, attending internal policy meetings at the White House, despite being scheduled to lead the American delegation in upcoming peace talks with Iran in Pakistan. Conflicting reports have emerged regarding his departure, originally planned for Tuesday morning, as Pakistan awaits official confirmation from Iran on their participation in the second round of negotiations. With the two-week ceasefire set to expire imminently, Iran's decision is crucial for the continuation of the diplomatic process.

PT Multi Medika Internasional Tbk (MMIX) has reported a strong turnaround in 2025, achieving a net profit of Rp5.2 billion, a 334% year-on-year increase, driven by robust growth in its baby diapers segment and improved operational efficiency. Looking ahead to 2026, the company aims to accelerate growth with revenue targets of Rp382 billion through product innovation, expanded distribution channels including e-commerce, and new offerings like wet and bamboo tissues. This strategy positions MMIX to strengthen its presence in the healthcare and consumer goods sectors amid evolving market dynamics.

North Sumatra Police have arrested Andi Hakim Febriansyah, a former BNI Aek Nabara branch manager, for embezzling Rp28 billion from a Catholic church parish through a fictitious investment product. The suspect, who fled to Australia before his arrest, used the funds to establish various businesses including an investment firm, a cafe, a billiards hall, a padel court, and a mini zoo. Authorities are seeking court approval to seize these assets, highlighting the need for robust financial oversight in banking to prevent such frauds.

Indonesia's fiscal management is under scrutiny from credit rating agencies amid ongoing global risks from conflicts, with a key concern being the ratio of government debt interest to state revenues. S&P Global Ratings recently maintained Indonesia's debt outlook as stable, differing from Fitch and Moody's assessments. This highlights the need for vigilant debt management to preserve the country's creditworthiness.

Indonesia's House of Representatives has passed the Domestic Workers Protection Bill into law, marking a significant step towards safeguarding the rights of domestic workers. The legislation covers recruitment, vocational training, conflict resolution, and aims to prevent discrimination, exploitation, and harassment while ensuring fair working conditions and welfare. This move underscores the government's commitment to humane and just employment practices in the household sector.

The Chairman of the DKI Jakarta DPRD Special Committee on Waste Management, Judistira Hermawan, has stressed the need to intensify waste bank programmes to manage rubbish at the source and prevent the capital's waste issues from escalating to national and international attention. He advocates shifting focus from reliance on final disposal sites like Bantargebang to source-level strategies, including composting and maggot utilisation, with committee recommendations set to influence the 2027 draft budget and 2026 revisions. This comes amid ongoing scrutiny following the fatal collapse of the Bantargebang integrated waste processing facility, which claimed seven lives and led to the charging of a former environmental official.

President Prabowo Subianto has instructed the Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Rosan Roeslani, to streamline regulations hindering investment, aligning them with OECD standards and conducting benchmarking with ASEAN countries to make Indonesia more investment-friendly. The President emphasised that investments should not only be substantial in value but also create high-quality jobs, with significant commitments already secured from Japan (nearly USD 30 billion), South Korea (around USD 10 billion), and China. This initiative supports the ambitious national investment target of over Rp13,000 trillion for 2025–2029, up from Rp9,100 trillion in the previous decade, aiming to accelerate policy execution and boost employment.

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has opened the door for China to issue bonds in the domestic market as part of reciprocal financial cooperation discussed with his Chinese counterpart Lan Fo’an during the IMF-World Bank Spring Meeting in Washington, DC. In return, Indonesia plans to issue Yuan-denominated Panda Bonds in China to leverage lower interest rates around 2.3 per cent, aiming to reduce the country's cost of capital. This strategy has already been communicated to US bond investors, resulting in a significant increase in incoming bids and demonstrating Indonesia's access to more efficient funding alternatives.

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani has informed President Prabowo Subianto that global investor interest in Indonesia remains robust despite escalating geopolitical and economic tensions. During his report on first-quarter 2026 investment realisations, Rosan highlighted significant commitments from countries like Japan (nearly USD 30 billion), South Korea (around USD 10 billion), and China, stemming from recent international engagements. This positive trend aligns with the government's ambitious target to boost national investment from Rp9,100 trillion (2014–2024) to over Rp13,000 trillion (2025–2029), underscoring Indonesia's continued appeal as a prime investment destination.

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Investment and Downstreaming/BKPM, is advancing the strategic development of the Lampung Bioethanol Project to accelerate the national energy transition, involving key partners such as Toyota, PT Pertamina New & Renewable Energy (PNRE), and Danantara Investment Management. Construction is slated to begin in the third quarter of 2026, with a pilot phase targeting 60 kilolitres per year by 2027 and a commercial scale of 60,000 kilolitres by 2028, utilising multi-feedstock sources including palm oil biomass and sorghum to enhance supply flexibility and sustainability. This initiative aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives on energy self-sufficiency, food security, and resource downstreaming, aiming to reduce Indonesia's 61% reliance on fuel imports amid global oil price volatility.

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has assured that the supply of cooking oil remains ample and secure, attributing recent price increases to rising costs of plastic packaging rather than any shortages in raw materials. While the popular Minyakita brand is priced at Rp15,900 per litre, exceeding the government's maximum retail price of Rp15,700, premium variants have seen sharper rises to Rp21,796 per litre. The government is coordinating with producers and the plastics industry to stabilise packaging costs and prevent undue price hikes, emphasising the need to maintain affordability for consumers without adjusting the regulated price cap yet.

Indonesia continues to attract strong interest from foreign investors despite global geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, as stated by Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Rosan Perkasa Roeslani following a meeting with President Prabowo Subianto. He highlighted significant investment commitments, including nearly $30 billion from Japan, around $10 billion from South Korea, and consistent high levels from China, based on recent engagements in key countries. This positive trend supports the government's ambitious target of over Rp13,000 trillion in national investment realisation for 2025-2029, a substantial increase from the previous period's Rp9,100 trillion.

The Banten Provincial Office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has confirmed that all prospective Hajj pilgrims (JCH) undergo strict and regular health examinations before departure to ensure their fitness, despite many being elderly and 25-30% classified as high-risk. Medical personnel will accompany the pilgrims throughout the journey to the Holy Land and back, with all necessary medications and potential risks anticipated. Officials urged pilgrims to maintain health, follow instructions, and exhibit disciplined, courteous behaviour to uphold the nation's reputation.

Indonesian police have seized a truck containing logistics packages suspected to be part of an illegal mobile phone import operation in Sidoarjo, East Java, as an extension of a prior case uncovered in Jakarta where two suspects were named. The raid targeted a warehouse owned by PT TSL, a parent company allegedly using shell entities to smuggle iPhones via air cargo at Juanda International Airport, with potential for additional arrests. This operation follows the confiscation of over 56,000 iPhones, Android phones, and non-compliant accessories worth Rp235 billion in Jakarta, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb illegal imports and substandard goods entering the domestic market, including via e-commerce platforms.

Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin and Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, has welcomed the passage of the Domestic Workers Protection Act (UU PPRT), describing it as the culmination of decades of advocacy and a milestone towards more equitable and humane employment relations. He highlighted that the law marks a new era of humanising humanity and ensuring workplace equality, though implementation may face challenges such as employers' inability to meet obligations, which he suggested could be addressed through mutual agreements. The Indonesian Parliament approved the bill in a plenary session on 21 April 2026, following a report from the Legislation Body and unanimous consent from factions.

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka has reaffirmed his commitment to visiting Yahukimo in Papua Pegunungan, despite a prior postponement in January 2026 due to security threats from the Armed Criminal Group (KKB). During his dialogue with TNI families, Gibran highlighted the challenges of the visit but expressed no regrets, emphasising the need to optimise President Prabowo Subianto's priority programmes such as free nutritious meals (MBG) and free health checks (CKG) in remote areas. He praised the TNI for ensuring the smooth conduct of his three-hour working visit, which included inspections of MBG implementation and health facilities.