Archive: 22 April 2026
Showing 351-400 of 1,736 articles
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:40 WIB
Expert Introduces New Generation AI-Based DSS Concept
Prof Tuga Mauritsius from Binus University has introduced a new generation Decision Support System (DSS) powered by artificial intelligence, aiming to bridge the gap between data insights and strategic policy-making amid technological advancements. This innovative DSS integrates predictive analysis via machine learning, scenario analysis, and system dynamics to provide optimal policy recommendations and simulate long-term impacts, shifting from reactive tools to decision intelligence. The professor's inauguration as a permanent full professor in DSS underscores Binus University's commitment to impactful academic research addressing global challenges.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:40 WIB
Great Potential: Indonesia Should Be Able to Produce 1.6 Million Tonnes of Biomethanol per Year
Indonesia holds significant potential to produce up to 1.6 million tonnes of biomethanol annually from palm oil mill effluent (POME), with national availability estimated at 150 million tonnes per year, according to Pertamina's Director of New & Renewable Energy, John Anis. This could substantially support the country's green energy development, though challenges include the remote and scattered locations of the 800 palm oil mills primarily in Sumatra and Kalimantan. Initial project phases would require only 1 million tonnes of POME for proof-of-concept, highlighting a promising yet logistically demanding opportunity in renewable fuels.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:38 WIB
Economists Urge Government to Delay Groundwater Tax Increase
Economists are calling on the Indonesian government to postpone a significant increase in groundwater tax rates amid global economic pressures, particularly from Middle East conflicts, to maintain a conducive business environment. They argue that such a hike would add unnecessary burdens on industries already facing heavy challenges, potentially leading to higher consumer prices and reduced economic growth. Experts recommend a phased implementation and stakeholder consultations to ensure the policy supports rather than hinders business operations.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:37 WIB
MPR: Collective commitment needed to realise the spirit of Kartini
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Lestari Moerdijat has emphasised the need for collective commitment to realise the values championed by RA Kartini in the modern era, highlighting that women today remain far from the freedom of thought she advocated. She stressed that emancipation extends beyond education to enabling women to achieve their aspirations, and that ongoing efforts are required to address gender disparities and shape the nation's direction. The remarks also referenced the historical contributions of Nyi Hadjar Dewantara in women's education and the first Women's Congress amid colonial oppression.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:36 WIB
Lesca Gadai Premier Ensures Security of Customers' Luxury Pawned Goods
PT Lesca Gadai Premier, a pioneer in the luxury pawn sector, has secured international certifications ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 27001 for information security, ensuring secure asset handling and customer data privacy. The company employs advanced technology and expert appraisers for fair valuations, stores luxury items in climate-controlled vaults, and projects 25-30% transaction growth by 2026. This move elevates Indonesia's luxury pawn industry to global standards, transforming it into a sophisticated wealth management tool for affluent clients.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:35 WIB
Dominance of Pleco Fish in Ciliwung River, IPB Expert: A Strong Sign That the River is "Ill"
The proliferation of invasive pleco fish along the Ciliwung River indicates a critically degraded ecosystem, according to IPB University professor Prof Yusli Wardiatno, as native freshwater species have largely disappeared due to poor water quality from domestic, industrial, and urban runoff. While mass capture for economic uses like feed or fertiliser is seen as a short-term measure, experts warn of health risks from heavy metals in the fish and stress the need for fundamental improvements in river quality and public behaviour to restore biodiversity. This situation underscores broader environmental challenges in urban waterways like those in Jakarta.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:35 WIB
India's Elections Heat Up! 9.1 Million Muslims and Minorities Lose Voting Rights
India's West Bengal state elections have intensified amid controversy over the removal of 9.1 million names from the voter list, disproportionately affecting Muslims and other minorities. The BJP-led government's Special Intensive Revision programme, aimed at eliminating duplicates and intruders, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and experts who view it as a constitutional violation and politically motivated disenfranchisement. Legal challenges are ongoing, but many affected voters risk being unable to participate in the polls, raising concerns about democratic integrity.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:34 WIB
Former Kemenaker Director General Suhartono Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison, Convicted of Corruption in RPTKA Case
A Jakarta anti-corruption court has sentenced former Director General of Kemenaker's Manpower Placement and Job Expansion Agency, Suhartono, to four years in prison and a fine of Rp 200 million for his role in extortion related to the processing of Rencana Penggunaan Tenaga Kerja Asing (RPTKA) permits between 2017 and 2025. Seven other ministry officials, including Haryanto and Wisnu Pramono, received harsher sentences ranging from 5.5 to 7.5 years, along with substantial fines and restitution orders totaling billions of rupiah, highlighting systemic corruption within the Ministry of Manpower. The convictions underscore the ongoing crackdown on graft in government services, with the defendants found to have violated anti-corruption laws through extortion practices that enriched themselves at the expense of permit seekers.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:33 WIB
Deputy MPR Speaker Urges All Parties to Realise Kartini's Struggle Values in the Present Day
Deputy Speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR), Lestari Moerdijat, has emphasised that women's freedom of thought remains far from reality and called for collective commitment to embody RA Kartini's values of emancipation today. During an online discussion on Kartini Day, experts including former Education Minister Wardiman Djojonegoro and PGRI Chair Unifah Rosyidi highlighted historical efforts in women's education and ongoing challenges in gender equality across politics, economy, and leadership. The event underscored the need to address root causes of gender disparities to shape Indonesia's national direction.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:33 WIB
Zelensky to Visit Cyprus to Urge EU to Approve €90 Billion Loan
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to attend an informal EU summit in Cyprus to press European leaders for swift approval of Ukraine's full membership in the bloc and a €90 billion loan to support the country amid ongoing challenges. The visit, occurring in person rather than virtually, highlights the urgency of the discussions, particularly as Germany and France have proposed only symbolic membership benefits, contrasting with Kyiv's push for immediate accession. Despite Ukraine's candidate status granted in June 2022, the path to full membership remains uncertain, as evidenced by long-waiting candidates like Turkey since 1999.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:33 WIB
Government Accelerates Digitalisation of Social Assistance to Enhance Service Transparency
The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Social Affairs and in collaboration with the National Economic Council, is fast-tracking the digital transformation of social assistance distribution to improve targeting accuracy, efficiency, and transparency. Pilot tests in areas like Banyuwangi have reduced errors from 77% to below 10%, enabling better allocation to the most needy, including addressing exclusion errors affecting 2.8 million in the lowest decile. Nationwide rollout is targeted for late 2026 or early 2027, marking a key step in modernising public services via integrated GovTech systems.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:32 WIB
NTT Couple Becomes Brains Behind International Phishing Operation Affecting 34,000 Victims, Arrested by FBI and Polri Together
Indonesian police from Bareskrim Polri's Cyber Crime Directorate, in collaboration with the FBI, have dismantled an international network selling phishing tools operated by a couple in Kupang, Nusa Tenggara Timur. The operation, led by a 24-year-old self-taught programmer, has caused global losses of approximately US$20 million (Rp350 billion) and affected around 34,000 victims since 2019. Authorities seized evidence and criminal assets worth Rp4.5 billion, identifying 2,440 buyers across multiple countries.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:32 WIB
Ministry of Forestry and BMKG sign science-based forest and land fire prevention cooperation agreement
The Indonesian Ministry of Forestry has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) to enhance science-based prevention of forest and land fires, amid forecasts of an early and drier dry season due to a potential weak to moderate El Niño in late 2024. The collaboration involves integrating meteorological, climatological, and forestry data, building human resource capacity, conducting weather modification operations, and performing science-based risk analyses. This initiative builds on Indonesia's successful reduction in fire-affected areas from 2.6 million hectares in 2015 to about 350,000 hectares last year, with BMKG playing a key role in predictive weather forecasting and proactive measures like groundwater monitoring to avert fires.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:31 WIB
Official Vehicle Parked on Pavement in Central Jakarta, DKI Satpol PP Apologises
A video captured an official red-plated Isuzu Panther Pikap parked on the pavement directly in front of the DKI Jakarta Satpol PP office in Kebon Sirih, Central Jakarta, prompting public criticism from a passerby who questioned the guards. The guards initially claimed ignorance of the vehicle's owner, later explaining it was due to a full internal parking lot from a meeting, but the incident highlighted a perceived lack of enforcement by the very agency tasked with upholding local regulations. In response, Satpol PP DKI Head Satriadi Gunawan issued an apology to the public, underscoring the need for the institution to set a positive example.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:31 WIB
Access Road to Rawa Malang City Forest in Malang Needs Improvement to Maximise Visitor Numbers
Officials at Rawa Malang City Forest in North Jakarta's Cilincing district are calling for improvements to the access road to boost visitor numbers and fully utilise the 5.7-hectare green space, which has been developed since 2012 but remains under-visited due to poor connectivity. Compared to other local city forests like Cilincing, Rorotan, and Sopapura, Rawa Malang sees the fewest visitors, despite offering a refreshing escape from urban heat under its shady trees. Enhancing access would enhance its role as a vital open green area for the community, promoting tourism and well-being in densely populated Jakarta Utara.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:31 WIB
Transjabodetabek Follows Transjakarta's Lead: Switching to Electric Buses
Transjabodetabek, the inter-regional bus service connecting Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi, plans to adopt electric buses, mirroring the transition underway at Transjakarta. Gatot Indra Koswara, a Transjakarta transformation specialist, highlighted the viability of electric buses for long routes like the 113.3 km Bogor to Blok M line, citing their sufficient range, battery capacity, and energy efficiency. This move aligns with the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, with Transjakarta set to procure 470 electric bus units by the end of 2025.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:30 WIB
KKP Collaborates with South Korea to Hold Training to Strengthen Indonesia's Marine Human Resources
The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has launched the Marine Survey Equipment Training (MSET) in Jakarta as part of the Korea-Indonesia Integrated Ocean Fisheries Technology Training Centre (KIOTEC) collaboration, aimed at enhancing marine human resources through international cooperation. This initiative, involving 40 postgraduate students from nine universities, focuses on advanced oceanographic measurement techniques to support national policies in fisheries cultivation, capture fleet strengthening, and data-based marine resource management. By emphasising adaptive, science-based skills to address global challenges like climate change, KIOTEC promotes technology transfer and international networking to bolster Indonesia's marine research and food security capabilities.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:30 WIB
Video: Accelerating 2,900 KM Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, HK Ensures Elephant Conservation
PT Hutama Karya is accelerating the construction of the 2,800-kilometre Trans-Sumatra Toll Road to connect Lampung and Aceh, with 110 km already built since 2014, significantly reducing travel times and boosting regional economies. The project has created 3.9 million jobs and contributed Rp124 trillion to Sumatra's GDP while employing green construction practices to protect natural conservation areas, including elephant habitats. Additionally, Hutama Karya supports disaster response efforts, such as building temporary housing in flood-affected regions of Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:30 WIB
Indonesia to maintain inflation rate at 2.51 per cent: BI
Bank Indonesia is enhancing collaboration with the government through inflation control teams and the Inflation Control and Food Prosperity Movement to keep inflation within its target range. Following the April board meeting, March CPI inflation was recorded at 3.48 per cent year-on-year, down from 4.76 per cent the previous month, with core inflation at 2.52 per cent and volatile food inflation at 4.24 per cent. The decline in administered prices inflation to 6.08 per cent, driven by easing government policies and the end of temporary electricity tariff discounts, underpins confidence that inflation will remain controlled.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:30 WIB
Not Investors: 90 Percent of Luxury Apartments in Dharmawangsa Bought by End Users
In Jakarta's Dharmawangsa area, the Savyavasa luxury apartment project by JSI Group and Swire Properties has achieved near-full sales, with only 30 percent of its 402 units remaining unsold since its 2022 launch, priced from Rp 8.5 billion to Rp 19.5 billion excluding VAT. Unlike typical investments, 90 percent of units were purchased by end users, including diplomats and senior expatriates, highlighting the resilience of premium property in low-density green spaces amid economic fluctuations. This trend underscores the scarcity of new supply in premium locations, driving up land values and maintaining strong demand for completed luxury residences.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:29 WIB
Eight Defendants in Extortion Case for Foreign Worker Permits at Ministry of Manpower Sentenced to 4 to 7.5 Years in Prison
Eight defendants involved in a major extortion scheme for processing foreign worker permits at Indonesia's Ministry of Manpower have been sentenced to between 4 and 7.5 years in prison by the Jakarta Corruption Court, with the total illicit gains amounting to Rp 130 billion over 2017-2025. The convictions highlight systemic corruption within the ministry's foreign labour directorate, undermining government anti-corruption efforts, though mitigating factors included the defendants' cooperation and restitution of funds. This case underscores the challenges in regulating foreign workforce approvals and serves as a deterrent against bureaucratic graft.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:29 WIB
Shopping Trend for Health Products Shifts to Digital, Regional Business Actors Begin to Take Role
The shift in consumer behaviour towards purchasing health and beauty products online is creating opportunities for regional businesses in Indonesia to develop adaptive digital retail models. Entrepreneurs like Abdu Sholeh from Tulungagung, East Java, have launched platforms such as Duzi Mart, which integrate multi-brand offerings for supplements, herbal products, and wellness items, enhancing accessibility and efficiency. This digital transformation is decentralising retail from major cities, though challenges in product curation and operational management persist amid growing competition.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:28 WIB
Synergy Between Finance Minister and Energy Minister Deemed Crucial to Mitigate Global Turmoil
Indonesia's economy is facing dual pressures from internal inefficiencies and external factors like Middle East conflicts driving up global energy prices, as highlighted by DPR Commission XI member Erik Hermawan. He emphasises the vital collaboration between Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia in maintaining stability, including preventing fuel subsidy increases and addressing rupiah depreciation to Rp17,189 per US dollar. This synergy is seen as essential to bolster market confidence amid fiscal risks and inconsistent policy implementation.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:28 WIB
Ministry of Industry Promotes Electric Vehicle Market through Early Adopter Strategy
The Indonesian Ministry of Industry is bolstering the role of early adopters to drive growth in the electric vehicle (EV) market, with the government positioning itself as a key initial buyer to signal strong market demand and accelerate national industry development from upstream to downstream. Data from the ministry indicates exponential growth in the battery-based electric motor vehicle sector, with a compound annual growth rate exceeding 140% over the past five years, and a market share reaching 21.71% in 2025. This progress is supported by an integrated ecosystem, including battery supply chains, and is expected to intensify in 2026 with new manufacturers entering the market under incentive programmes.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:28 WIB
Vice President monitors free nutritious meals in Raja Ampat, urges SPPG officers to evaluate SOP
Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka inspected the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme at SDN 2 Waisai in Raja Ampat, Papua Barat Daya, where he instructed SPPG officers to revise their standard operating procedures after discovering that meals were being prepared too early, potentially compromising food quality. During his three-day working visit to Papua, he ensured smooth operations at three schools and engaged with students who expressed satisfaction with the menu, which included white rice, soy sauce chicken, fried tempeh, cassava vegetable, and apples. The visit underscores the government's commitment to enhancing child nutrition through the MBG initiative to support optimal development for Indonesia's future generations.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:27 WIB
JP Morgan Report Names Indonesia as One of the Most Resilient Countries Facing the Energy Crisis
A recent JP Morgan report highlights Indonesia's robust resilience against global energy shocks, ranking it second worldwide in total protection factors due to its abundant domestic resources like coal and natural gas. As the world's largest exporter of thermal coal and a significant gas producer, Indonesia benefits from energy diversification including renewables, positioning it ahead of many nations in withstanding price surges. The analysis underscores the vulnerability of import-dependent countries like Japan and Italy, while praising diversification as key to stability, with Indonesia placing third when factoring in low import reliance.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:26 WIB
Darmin Nasution believes government needs to adjust fuel subsidy budget
Former Coordinating Minister for the Economy Darmin Nasution has urged the government to adjust its fuel subsidy budget amid rising external pressures, warning that keeping domestic fuel prices stable while global oil prices increase places additional strain on the rupiah exchange rate. He explained that the policy of holding fuel prices leads to higher subsidy costs, which in turn pressures fiscal balances and the currency. On Wednesday, the rupiah weakened to Rp17,181 per US dollar, partly due to uncertainties surrounding the US-Iran ceasefire extension announced by President Trump.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:26 WIB
Iran War Drains US Advanced Missile Supplies, Analyst: Vulnerable to Enemy Attacks
The Wall Street Journal reports that major US defence companies will require one to two years to ramp up production of advanced ammunition, amid growing Congressional concerns over rapidly depleting stockpiles in the Middle East. Admiral Samuel Paparo testified that current supplies of Tomahawk and Patriot missiles are limited and being used judiciously, while supply chain issues and the need for new facilities exacerbate the challenges. CNN sources indicate a massive drain on key missile reserves during the war with Iran, heightening short-term risks of ammunition shortages in potential future conflicts.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:25 WIB
Bogor Regent signs PSEL cooperation agreement to address waste emergency
The Regent of Bogor, Rudy Susmanto, has signed a cooperation agreement for the Bogor Raya Waste-to-Energy Project (PSEL) with PT Weiming Nusantara Bogor New Energy, in the presence of Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan, to tackle the region's escalating waste crisis. This initiative aims to modernise waste management, convert rubbish into environmentally friendly electricity, reduce landfill burdens, and create new jobs in clean energy, aligning with the President's directive to resolve non-household waste issues by 2029. The project is seen as a significant step forward for sustainable development in Bogor, addressing not only waste but also broader challenges like flooding and landslides.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:25 WIB
Phishing Tools Sold by Couple in NTT Can Breach Multi-Layered Security Systems
Indonesian police have dismantled a cross-border network in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, operated by a couple selling sophisticated phishing tools capable of bypassing multi-factor authentication, affecting 34,000 victims globally since January 2023. The primary suspect, a self-taught programmer, and his partner managed the illegal operation through websites and cryptocurrency, generating personal profits of Rp 25 billion while causing an estimated USD 20 million in worldwide losses, including to nine Indonesian companies. Both have been arrested and charged under cybercrime and money laundering laws, highlighting the growing threat of advanced cyber fraud.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:25 WIB
UTBK Marred by Cheating, DPR Member: Supervision Needs to be Tightened
A DPR Commission X Deputy Chairman, Lalu Hadrian Irfani, has urged the 2026 SNPMB committee to strengthen supervision following cheating incidents on the first day of the UTBK-SNBT exam, including early detection of potential fraud and thorough checks of participants' belongings and exam rooms. Various cheating practices were reported, such as participants substituting with others using different names, repeated participation by the same individuals, and use of hearing aids for assistance at universities like Universitas Sulawesi Barat, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, and Universitas Diponegoro. The UTBK-SNBT 2026, running from 21 to 30 April, maintains its standard subjects without significant changes, highlighting the need for integrity to prevent future generations from succumbing to dishonesty.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:24 WIB
KPK Reveals Corruption Circles Phenomenon: Close Networks Secure Illicit Funds
The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has uncovered a pervasive phenomenon of 'corruption circles', involving networks of family members, trusted aides, colleagues, and political allies who facilitate and conceal corrupt activities across various Indonesian local governments. Highlighting cases in regions like Pekalongan, Bekasi, Tulungagung, Cilacap, Ponorogo, and Riau, the KPK emphasises the need to dismantle entire networks rather than targeting only primary perpetrators, underscoring how public offices are exploited for political financing and quid pro quo arrangements. Collaboration with the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) is vital in tracing illicit fund flows, with statistics showing 1,904 corruption convicts since 2004, predominantly male.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:24 WIB
Deputy Minister of Basic and Secondary Education emphasises strict sanctions for UTBK 2026 cheating perpetrators
Wakil Menteri Pendidikan Dasar dan Menengah Atip Latipulhayat has warned of severe penalties for those involved in UTBK 2026 proxy cheating, describing it as a criminal act involving identity forgery. Offenders and users of such services face disqualification from all national university admission pathways, including independent routes, with potential expulsion even if violations are discovered post-admission. This stance underscores the government's commitment to upholding integrity and honesty in Indonesia's higher education selection process.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:23 WIB
In Sekadau, Muhammadiyah Expands National New Muslim Support Outreach
Muhammadiyah's Central Leadership for Community Da'wah (LDK PP) has inaugurated a Muhammadiyah New Muslim Learning Centre (MLC) in Sekadau Regency, West Kalimantan, as part of its national programme to support converts to Islam. The initiative provides comprehensive guidance encompassing religious, social, economic, and psychological aspects, aiming to empower new Muslims for independent and dignified lives. This expansion into remote areas like Sekadau underscores Muhammadiyah's commitment to inclusive da'wah and community strengthening through collaboration with local government and society.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:22 WIB
Trade Minister Responds to Pokémon Card Craze in Indonesia with Prices Reaching Billions
The Pokémon card collecting trend has resurged in Indonesia, driving prices for rare items up to billions of rupiah and raising concerns over potential scams. Trade Minister Budi Santoso has pledged government oversight through the Directorate of Consumer Protection and Market Order to monitor transactions and prevent fraud. This response highlights the intersection of popular culture phenomena with consumer protection and market regulation in the country.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:22 WIB
First in History: Solidarity through TKD for Flood Recovery in Sumatra
In a historic move, the Indonesian government has exempted Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra from TKD budget cuts to facilitate recovery from devastating floods that affected 53 districts/cities and damaged over 302,000 homes, with estimated recovery costs of Rp 51 trillion. President Prabowo Subianto's directive restored Rp 10.6 trillion in funding, including Rp 1.6 trillion for Aceh, Rp 6.3 trillion for North Sumatra, and Rp 2.6 trillion for West Sumatra, enabling rapid rehabilitation efforts. This initiative promotes inter-regional solidarity, with unaffected areas providing financial aid to impacted ones, amassing Rp 260 billion in commitments to rebuild severely hit regions.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:22 WIB
Agriculture Minister: Four Countries Want to Import Indonesian Fertiliser
Agriculture Minister Andi Amran Sulaiman has revealed that India, Australia, the Philippines, and Brazil have requested imports of Indonesian urea fertiliser, with specific demands from India for 500,000 tonnes and Australia for 250,000 tonnes in the first phase. This interest stems from global supply disruptions caused by geopolitical conflicts in the Strait of Hormuz, which have driven urea prices up to nearly US$900 per tonne from US$600–700. With Indonesia's production at 7.8 million tonnes against a domestic need of 6 million tonnes, the government is considering exporting up to 1 million tonnes from the surplus to benefit the nation.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:22 WIB
About the Kawal Haji Application for Complaint Reporting: How to Use It
The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched the Kawal Haji application to enhance the quality of Hajj pilgrimage services by allowing pilgrims and officials to submit real-time complaints with supporting evidence. The platform features tools for reporting issues, searching existing complaints, and monitoring follow-up actions, accessible via kawal.haji.go.id after user registration. This initiative promotes integrated and efficient handling of on-site challenges during the Hajj, improving accountability in religious service delivery.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:21 WIB
New Magnet in South Medan: No Longer the Outskirts, But the Future of Investment
South Medan's Tuntungan area, particularly Ladang Bambu, is emerging as a prime investment destination for property developers due to significant land value appreciation and infrastructure improvements, with median prices reaching Rp750,000 to Rp1.8 million per square metre by April 2026. The Medan City Government's strategic plans through 2026 are enhancing connectivity and promoting subsidized housing under the FLPP programme, alongside green spaces to balance urban expansion. This zone's educational ecosystem and commercial potential offer high yields of 8-12% annually for rentals and strong capital gains, positioning it as a key growth area for long-term investments.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:21 WIB
Domestic Workers Bill: An Answer to Long Waits or the Start of New Challenges
After over two decades of delays, the Domestic Workers Protection Bill (RUU PPRT) was finally passed in April 2026, marking a significant step towards recognising household work as legitimate employment deserving legal safeguards on wages, working hours, social security, and protection from violence. While the bill balances social relations with labour rights and introduces regulations for placement agencies and vocational training, it faces implementation hurdles in private domestic spaces, relying on local governments and community structures for oversight. This legislation reflects the state's evolving view of domestic labour, shifting the focus from debate to effective enforcement to ensure meaningful protection for millions of workers.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:21 WIB
Bareskrim: Phishing Tools as Gateway to Cybercrime, Triggering Fraud to Data Theft
Indonesian National Police's cybercrime unit has highlighted the severe threat posed by the circulation of phishing tools, which serve as entry points for extensive cybercrimes including data theft and large-scale online fraud. A recent case uncovered the sale of 22 types of such tools via Telegram, linked to international servers and cryptocurrency payments, resulting in estimated global losses of $20 million and profits of Rp 25 billion for the perpetrators from 2019 to 2024. The bust, aided by FBI collaboration, underscores Polri's role in combating global cyber threats and protecting national security and individual privacy.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:21 WIB
New Electric Vehicle Tax Rules: Here's the Difference Between Jaecoo J5 EV and Hyundai Creta
The Indonesian government has revised tax regulations for electric vehicles through Minister of Home Affairs Regulation No. 11 of 2026, ending the automatic exemption from Motor Vehicle Tax (PKB) and Motor Vehicle Ownership Transfer Tax (BBNKB), with rates now varying by region. This change makes the annual tax for compact electric SUVs like the Jaecoo J5 EV approximately Rp3-5 million, compared to Rp5.75 million for the petrol-powered Hyundai Creta, while both now face similar BBNKB rates of 10-12% upon purchase. Although electric vehicles retain a lighter annual tax burden, the overall cost advantage has diminished, potentially impacting their market appeal in Indonesia's growing SUV segment.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:20 WIB
Director General of Immigration and Cabinet Secretary Discuss Enhancing Immigration Services
The Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, met with Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya to discuss improvements in immigration services, including simplified processes for Hajj pilgrims and enhanced efficiency at airports and ports. Hendarsam highlighted plans to upgrade several State Border Crossing Posts (PLBN) to strengthen service delivery and border oversight, underscoring immigration's strategic role in ensuring security and comfort for travellers. This meeting marks initial coordination efforts between the Cabinet Secretariat and the Directorate General of Immigration to boost public service quality in the immigration sector.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:20 WIB
Joint Officers Seize Street Vendor Stalls from Six Roads in Kebon Jeruk
Authorities from the West Jakarta City Government conducted an operation to dismantle and confiscate street vendor stalls occupying sidewalks and prohibited areas along six roads in the Sukabumi Utara neighbourhood of Kebon Jeruk. The enforcement action, which followed prior warnings and socialisation efforts, targeted violations of Local Regulation No. 8 of 2007 on public order, resulting in the seizure of stalls, carts, benches, umbrellas, and a mobile cart from six vendors, as well as the removal of encroachments by a tyre workshop. The initiative aims to deter future misuse of public spaces, ensuring sidewalks remain accessible for pedestrians and preventing urban blight.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:20 WIB
YLKI Deems MBDK Excise Tax More Effective in Curbing Sugary Drink Consumption
The Indonesian Consumer Foundation (YLKI) has criticised the government's Nutri Level policy for ready-to-eat foods, particularly sweetened beverages, as ineffective in controlling sugar, salt, and fat intake among the public. YLKI advocates for the implementation of an excise tax on packaged sweetened beverages (MBDK), arguing it would more directly reduce consumption and promote behavioural change. Additionally, the group calls for explicit warning labels over colour-coded systems to enhance consumer understanding and accessibility, urging a review of the current policy in line with health regulations.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:20 WIB
Beware of Increasingly Prevalent Scams Disguised as Lost Packages in Society
Scams masquerading as issues with lost or returnable packages are on the rise amid growing digital transactions, with fraudsters impersonating logistics companies to deceive victims into sharing personal data or making payments. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) Chair, Friderica Widyasari Dewi, reported that IDR 9.1 trillion in public funds have been lost to such scams, as stated during a March 2026 working meeting with the House of Representatives' Commission XI. SPX Express has clarified it lacks an official Instagram account and urges the public to avoid sharing sensitive information with unknown parties while conducting transactions only through official channels, highlighting the need for heightened caution in digital dealings.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:20 WIB
How to Easily Check if Your KTP NIK is Being Used for Online Loans or Not
A growing issue in Indonesia involves the misuse of National ID Numbers (NIK) from KTPs to apply for online loans without the owner's consent, often due to lax verification processes by some lending platforms. The Financial Services Authority (OJK) provides a straightforward way to check for such misuse through its SLIK system, accessible online via the iDebku portal or app, or offline at OJK offices. This service allows individuals to verify their credit status and protect against identity theft, highlighting the need for stronger regulations in the fintech sector.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:19 WIB
How to Check Desil Bansos Online for April 2026: Enter Your KTP NIK and Status Appears Immediately
The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has simplified the process for checking eligibility for social assistance (bansos) in April 2026, allowing citizens to verify their desil status online using just their KTP NIK via mobile app, eliminating the need to visit local offices. This digital service provides detailed information on names, desil groups, and aid status for programmes like PKH and BPNT, directly impacting benefit disbursement opportunities in 2026. With recent additions of 25,000 new recipient families, this tool empowers the public to confirm their inclusion promptly.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:18 WIB
Learning from the Daan Mogot Case in West Jakarta: Can Police Search Without Evidence?
A viral incident in Jakarta's Daan Mogot area, where police intercepted a vehicle based on a public report of suspected drug transactions, has raised questions about the legality of searches without sufficient evidence. Legal expert Abdul Fickar Hadjar from Trisakti University stressed that while public reports can initiate investigations, searches require supporting evidence like witnesses or documents under the Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP), and cannot rely solely on suspicion. The case highlights the need for police to follow proper procedures, including presenting warrants, to avoid arbitrary actions.
Wed, 22 Apr 2026, 18:17 WIB
Aiming for 12% Revenue Growth, Here’s IPCC’s Strategy
PT Indonesia Kendaraan Terminal Tbk (IPCC), a sub-holding of PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo), is targeting a 10-12% revenue growth for 2026, projecting revenues to reach Rp 1.04 trillion following Rp 929.96 billion in operational income in 2025. The company remains optimistic amid global and domestic challenges by pursuing B2B tenders with OEMs for integrated services, securing deals with Japanese, Chinese, and South Korean firms, and capitalising on electric vehicle imports for government initiatives like the Merah Putih Village Cooperative. Additionally, IPCC is allocating Rp 18-20 billion in capex to develop a 1.3-hectare parking facility, potentially increasing capacity by 30,000 to 40,000 vehicles, to boost productivity and efficiency.