Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 22 April 2026

Showing 401-450 of 1,736 articles

Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs States Deactivation of Children's Social Media Accounts Will Be Done Gradually, Not All Affected Immediately

Minister Meutya Hafid has announced that the deactivation of social media accounts belonging to children under 16 who comply with access restrictions will proceed gradually, explaining variations in implementation. This approach is part of enforcing Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic Systems for Child Protection (PP TUNAS), which aims to safeguard minors in the digital realm. The ministry urges parents to actively monitor their children's online activities alongside governmental and industry efforts.

Deputy Agriculture Minister emphasises accelerated planting to anticipate El Niño impacts

Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Sudaryono, has underscored the government's strategic push for accelerated planting as a key measure to mitigate the effects of climate change, particularly the looming El Niño threat, aiming to safeguard national food production and security. Leading a simultaneous rice planting initiative across 16 provinces, he urged swift utilisation of newly developed people's paddy fields in Jambi, targeting 5,000 hectares for immediate cultivation while maximising remaining rainy season opportunities through modern mechanisation like rice transplanters and drones. This approach, supported by extension workers and the Food Brigade, highlights the importance of efficient land use and water resource management to ensure sustainable harvests amid potential droughts.

Elimination of the Terms 'Helper' and 'Employer' in the Domestic Workers Protection Law

Indonesia's Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Choiri Fauzi, has declared that the terms "helper" and "employer" are obsolete following the enactment of the Domestic Workers Protection Law (UU PPRT), which now recognises domestic workers as legitimate employees entitled to fair wages, reasonable hours, rest days, healthy food, and social security. The law mandates humane treatment free from violence and legal protections, including mandatory reporting of employment details to local community leaders to ensure accountability. Advocacy groups like JALA PRT have praised the government and parliament for passing this long-awaited legislation after over 20 years of delays, marking a significant step towards formalising and safeguarding the rights of millions of domestic workers in Indonesia.

Indonesia's Purbaya Removes Two Senior Finance Ministry Officials

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has dismissed two senior echelon I officials, Febrio Kacaribu, Director General of Economic and Fiscal Strategy, and Luky Alfirman, Director General of Budget, with acting officials appointed immediately. Purbaya did not specify reasons for the removals, stating the officials will rest before potential reassignment, and plans to submit permanent replacement names to President Prabowo Subianto in early or mid-May. This shake-up in the Finance Ministry highlights ongoing administrative changes under the new leadership, potentially impacting fiscal policy and budget management.

Ministry and Jasaraharja Putera strengthen tourism risk governance

The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, in partnership with PT Jasaraharja Putera, has launched an initiative to bolster tourism risk governance through a focus group discussion in West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, emphasising synergy between government, industry, and local authorities to ensure safe and high-quality tourism. This programme aligns with the Tourism Law and a forthcoming 2025 ministerial regulation on risk-based business classification, addressing Indonesia's significant tourism safety challenges, including a 28.57 percent rise in accidents and a global ranking of 54th in the 2024 Travel & Tourism Development Index. With Labuan Bajo serving as a pilot project for enhanced insurance schemes and risk management, the effort aims to build tourist trust and resilience in priority destinations amid surging visitor numbers.

Dedi Mulyadi Serves as Marriage Witness at Depok KUA, Each Bride and Groom Receives Housing Down Payment Savings

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi attended a simple marriage programme at the Bojongsari District Office of Religious Affairs in Depok, where he served as a witness alongside Depok Mayor Supian Suri for five couples from various regions. Each newlywed pair received a Rp 5 million savings account designated exclusively for housing down payments or renovations, along with household appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines. This initiative promotes affordable weddings and supports homeownership, reflecting government efforts to aid young families in establishing stable households.

Meeting with Purbaya: Car Factory Boss Reveals Outcome of Meeting

Leaders from the Indonesian Automotive Industry Association (GAIKINDO) met briefly with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to secure his commitment to deliver a keynote speech at the upcoming GIIAS conference on 4 August, highlighting the strategic importance of government involvement in the national automotive showcase. Although time constraints limited deeper discussions on bolstering the domestic auto industry, both parties agreed to continue communications, building on a prior meeting that celebrated positive Q1 2026 car sales driven by electric and hybrid vehicles. The minister reaffirmed the government's dedication to enhancing competitiveness and accelerating the shift to eco-friendly vehicles, underscoring efforts to strengthen Indonesia's automotive sector.

Ministry of Industry Strengthens Early Adopter Role to Boost EV Market

The Indonesian Ministry of Industry is enhancing the government's role as an early adopter of domestically produced electric vehicles to drive market growth and accelerate the national EV industry's development from upstream to downstream. With the EV market showing exponential growth, including a 21.71% market share in 2025, the strategy is supported by integrated supply chains, regulatory certainty, and collaborations with global and local manufacturers. This initiative aims to establish Indonesia as a key production hub for EVs in the region, with plans for a national electric car company targeting mass production by 2028.

Central Java Police Foils Smuggling of Illegal Vehicles to Timor Leste

Central Java Police have foiled a major vehicle smuggling operation to Timor Leste, seizing 46 motorcycles, four cars, and two trucks without proper documents, with the syndicate having previously smuggled 1,674 motorcycles, 34 cars, and 19 trucks worth an estimated Rp100 billion since January 2025. Two suspects, including an investor and broker with connections in Timor Leste, were arrested after a probe uncovered fake documents used to facilitate the illegal transport. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat cross-border smuggling, with prosecutions pending under Indonesia's Criminal Code and fiduciary laws.

Yuan to Upgrade? China Must Dismantle Its Financial System

Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, are spotlighting the Chinese yuan as a potential alternative to the US dollar in global oil trade, with reports of Iran pushing for yuan payments in tanker transactions. Despite the yuan's 6.45% strengthening against the dollar over the past year and China's massive trade surpluses indicating it is undervalued by up to 20% according to the IMF, its path to becoming a global reserve currency is hindered by China's closed capital account and shallow, illiquid financial markets that limit foreign investment. For the yuan to truly ascend, Beijing must undertake bold financial reforms to deepen markets, enhance liquidity, and open access to international investors, potentially reshaping global finance.

House of Representatives Commission I: Indonesia Needs to Strengthen Sovereignty While Upholding Non-Aligned Activism

Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Commission I, Dave Laksono, has stressed the importance of Indonesia bolstering its national sovereignty while adhering to its free and active foreign policy principles amid ongoing global conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and Middle East tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the US. He called for pushing permanent solutions to these conflicts to achieve genuine peace and urged heightened vigilance against hybrid warfare threats, particularly in the South China Sea, while maintaining balanced relations with major powers like China, the US, and Europe. Laksono praised the government's fiscal policies under President Prabowo and the Energy and Mineral Resources Minister for mitigating the economic impacts of rising global oil prices.

Yusril: Academics are free to criticise the government

Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra has affirmed that academics in Indonesia are free to criticise government policies without restriction, emphasising that no laws prohibit such expressions. In response to police reports filed against academics Feri Amsari and Ubedilah Badrun, Yusril stressed that ethical mechanisms should be prioritised over criminal proceedings unless clear legal violations like incitement are evident. He advised the reported academics to cooperate with police clarifications, noting that many such cases may not escalate to formal investigations.

Caring for Maternal Health, PLN Distributes Pregnancy Risk Detection Devices in Garut

In commemoration of Kartini Day, state-owned electricity company PT PLN has distributed early detection devices for pre-eclampsia, powered by Internet of Medical Things and Artificial Intelligence, to the Garut Regency Health Office in West Java to enhance maternal healthcare services in underserved areas and support Indonesia's efforts to reduce maternal mortality rates. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has set an ambitious target to lower the maternal mortality ratio from 140 to 40 per 100,000 live births within five years, with pre-eclampsia accounting for about 25% of cases. This initiative aligns with government health transformation goals and PLN's commitment to sustainable development, particularly SDG 3, by promoting equitable access to technology-driven maternal care.

Latest Cooking Oil Prices for All Types, Priced at This in Jakarta

Cooking oil prices in Jakarta are rising, with bulk palm oil increasing by 0.45% weekly and 2.96% monthly to Rp19,473 per unit, while the subsidised Minyakita brand remains stable at Rp15,942 but sells above its maximum retail price (HET) of around Rp15,980 in markets. Trade Minister Budi Santoso has confirmed no plans to raise the HET despite rising plastic packaging costs, as premium branded oils like Bimoli and Sunco fetch Rp45,000 to Rp49,000 for 2-litre packs. This trend highlights ongoing inflationary pressures in essential commodities, impacting household budgets amid government efforts to stabilise prices.

276,000 Square Metres of Waqf Land Certified

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has certified 287,162 plots of waqf land covering 276 million square metres as of April 2026, marking a significant advancement in national waqf governance. This achievement, highlighted by Director General Abu Rokhmad, underscores the collaboration between the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/National Land Agency, accelerating the protection of religious assets. The vast waqf holdings hold strategic potential to bolster national development in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment, serving as a key pillar for social and economic resilience.

Subang Hajj Pilgrims Total 543, Divided into Two Flight Groups

A total of 543 prospective Hajj pilgrims from Subang Regency in West Java will depart for the Holy Land this year, divided into two flight groups: kloter 34 on 16 May and kloter 39 on 19 May. Kloter 39 will join pilgrims from Kuningan, Majalengka, and Cirebon, with ages ranging from 20-year-old Dian Setianti to 83-year-old Ana. Deputy Regent Agus Masykur Rosyadi urged pilgrims to maintain their health and focus on the obligatory aspects of Hajj, while the local government provides bus transport and souvenirs as support.

KPK Examines Bupati Tulungagung's Personal Secretaries, Probes Creation of Resignation Letter Used for Extortion

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is investigating the timeline of a resignation letter allegedly used by suspended Tulungagung Regent Gatut Sunu Wibowo to extort local government officials. The agency questioned the regent's two personal secretaries, several department heads, and other officials to uncover how the undated letter was employed to pressure subordinates into making financial contributions under threat of dismissal or loss of civil servant status. This probe highlights ongoing concerns over corruption and abuse of power in regional governance.

Ministry of Immigration and Corrections Ensures Smooth Services During 2026 Hajj

The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Kemenimipas) has pledged to guarantee seamless immigration services for Indonesian pilgrims during the 2026 Hajj, particularly through pre-checks in Indonesia to avoid delays upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. Collaborating with the Saudi Embassy via the Mecca Route initiative, the ministry aims to facilitate around 60% of pilgrims from key embarkation points like Juanda, Soekarno-Hatta, Adi Soemarmo, and Hasanuddin airports. Additionally, a streamlined return process using facial recognition technology at Soekarno-Hatta and Juanda is expected to benefit 35-40% of returning pilgrims, enhancing overall convenience for the pilgrimage.

Police Uncover ATM Skimming Syndicate in East Jakarta with Seven Prior Operations

Jakarta police have dismantled a syndicate specialising in ATM skimming, arresting four experienced criminals who had carried out the fraud seven times across multiple regions, including East Jakarta, Cilegon, and parts of Central Java. The gang employed a method involving modified toothpicks to jam card slots, PIN spying, distraction tactics, and subsequent account draining, with one member being a repeat offender previously imprisoned for similar crimes. The arrests followed a theft at a Cipayung ATM, and investigations continue to explore potential wider networks and additional targets.

Minister of PPPA: Domestic Workers Protection Law Lacks Detail

Indonesia's newly enacted Law on the Protection of Domestic Workers (UU PPRT), after over two decades of delay, establishes fundamental rights for domestic workers including fair wages, reasonable working hours, social security, holidays, healthy meals, humane treatment, and legal protection, while also safeguarding employers by formalising the worker-employer relationship without terms like "master" or "maid". Minister Arifah Tulul Choli Fauzi noted that detailed regulations, particularly on wages which will be based on regional agreements rather than minimum wage standards, will be addressed in implementing rules within 45 days. The law ensures additional benefits like religious holiday allowances and aligns domestic workers' protections with broader labour regulations, marking a significant step towards formalising and humanising this vital sector.

Response to MUI Criticism, South Jakarta City Government Changes Method of Destroying Sailfin Catfish in This Way

In response to criticism from the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) regarding the inhumane practice of burying live sailfin catfish, the South Jakarta City Government has modified its eradication method to first euthanise the invasive fish before burial. The Food Security, Maritime Affairs, and Fisheries Agency (KPKP) is evaluating options to process the dead fish into organic fertiliser or alternative fish feed, following two operations that removed 6.6 tonnes from the Setu Babakan connecting channel. This adjustment aligns with Islamic principles of animal welfare and environmental protection, addressing the ecological threat posed by the species to local waterways.

Cross-Border Phishing Tools Syndicate Dismantled, Perpetrators a Romantic Couple

Indonesian police, in collaboration with the FBI, have dismantled an international syndicate run by a couple in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, who produced and sold phishing tools, amassing profits of Rp 25 billion while causing an estimated Rp 350 billion in damages to over 34,000 victims worldwide, including nine Indonesian companies. The male suspect, a self-taught script developer, operated websites to market the illegal tools since 2018, while his partner managed cryptocurrency finances. Both face severe penalties under cybercrime and money laundering laws, highlighting the global reach of cyber threats originating from Indonesia.

Dozens of Illegally Parked Vehicles Towed from North Jakarta District Court, Mostly Motorcycles

The North Jakarta Transportation Sub-Department has cracked down on illegal parking outside the North Jakarta District Court, towing 13 vehicles including five cars and eight motorcycles. Officials also deflated tyres of additional vehicles due to limited towing capacity and plan to impose fines and statements of undertaking on the owners. In coordination with the court, periodic monitoring and potential provision of designated parking spaces will be implemented to prevent future violations.

Luhut reports steady three-month economic outlook to Prabowo

Luhut has assured President Prabowo that Indonesia's economy remains secure and robust for the next three months, with strong fundamentals and a fiscal deficit capped below 3% of GDP through efficient spending and revenue optimization from exports like coal and palm oil. The government is preparing anticipatory measures against prolonged geopolitical tensions, focusing on energy price stability, supply chain security for commodities such as sulfur vital to the nickel and EV battery sectors, and accelerating deregulation to boost the real economy. Luhut views these challenges as opportunities, pushing for digital government transformation and the Indonesia Financial Center to attract shifting global capital flows, fostering collaboration between government and business for national advancement.

Italy renews call for agreement to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has reiterated calls for an agreement to safely reopen the Strait of Hormuz and emphasised that Iran's nuclear programme is entirely for civilian purposes, while urging a sustainable ceasefire in Lebanon. In a phone call with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, Tajani encouraged Iran to rebuild positive relations with Gulf states and expressed Italy's readiness to support dialogue for regional stability. This comes amid fragile ceasefires, including a 10-day truce between Lebanon and Israel, against the backdrop of ongoing Israeli strikes that have caused significant casualties and displacement in Lebanon.

Strengthening Indonesia's Carbon Market, BEI Launches "I Am Net-Zero Hero" Campaign

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) has launched the "Aku Net-Zero Hero" campaign on Earth Day to encourage public participation in low-carbon lifestyles and bolster the national carbon trading ecosystem via IDXCarbon. The initiative promotes calculating, reducing, and offsetting personal emissions through accessible digital platforms in partnership with entities like Bank Mandiri and Pertamina NRE, emphasising climate justice and the "reduce first" principle. This move supports Indonesia's sustainable economy transition, with IDXCarbon already seeing over 1,500 individual beneficiaries offsetting more than 1.3 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent, enhancing market liquidity and green project development.

Polri: Sale of “Phishing Tools” Causes 34,000 Global Victims

Indonesian police have uncovered a cybercrime operation involving the sale of phishing tools that affected 34,000 victims worldwide between January 2023 and April 2024, resulting in estimated losses of $20 million. The main suspect, a self-taught programmer, developed and sold these tools since 2018, while his partner managed the cryptocurrency proceeds. Nine Indonesian companies were among the victims, highlighting the global reach and domestic impact of such digital fraud, with the perpetrators now facing severe penalties under Indonesia's electronic information and criminal laws.

Ministry of Industry Hopes Electric Vehicle Tax Changes Do Not Disrupt Production

The Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) has expressed hope that recent changes to the electric vehicle (EV) tax scheme, outlined in the new Ministerial Regulation on Home Affairs No. 11 of 2026, will not significantly impact sales and thus national EV production. Officials note that while the adjustments to regional taxes like Vehicle Ownership Tax (PKB) and Vehicle Transfer Tax (BBNKB) will increase the total cost of ownership, the growing adoption of EVs—with a market share reaching 15%—remains encouraging, potentially boosted by rising fuel prices. Kemenperin is awaiting final government decisions on tax incentives and emphasises the importance of continued non-fiscal support to sustain the industry's momentum towards transitioning from internal combustion engine vehicles.

YouTube Complies with Kemkomdigi Directive, Restricts Users Under 16

Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, announced that YouTube has officially complied with the government's directive to restrict users under 16 years old, in line with Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Child Protection in Electronic Systems. This commitment includes deactivating underage accounts, eliminating child-targeted ads, and updating community guidelines, bringing the total to seven compliant platforms including X, TikTok, and Meta's services. The regulation, effective since March 2026, aims to create a safer digital space for Indonesian children, with other platforms urged to follow by June 2026.

Electric Vehicle Tax Changes: Pros and Cons of the New EV Tariff

Indonesia's electric vehicle incentives are shifting, with new regulations allowing regional governments to impose motor vehicle tax (PKB) and vehicle transfer tax (BBNKB) on battery electric vehicles (BEVs), ending their previous tax exemptions. Industry expert Yannes argues that while taxing EVs is reasonable and aligns with global practices, the timing is premature given the nascent adoption stage in Indonesia, potentially leading to consumer hesitation and regional disparities like 'tax shopping'. Long-term, inconsistent policies could undermine investment attractiveness in the EV sector, underscoring the need for clear guidelines to support a smooth transition.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education Pushes for Creation of ASRI Schools

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is promoting the establishment of safe, healthy, clean, and beautiful (ASRI) school environments, in alignment with President’s broader initiative to foster secure and efficient living conditions across society. Minister Abdul Mu'ti highlighted the ministry's regulations aimed at building safe, comfortable, and healthy schools during a visit to SMKN 3 Tondano in North Sulawesi. This effort underscores the importance of collaborative action between local governments and central ministries to enhance social and natural environments, particularly in tourism-rich regions like North Sulawesi.

Where is Iran's Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, and Why Has He Mysteriously Disappeared?

The mysterious absence of Mojtaba Khamenei, announced as Iran's Supreme Leader following his father Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death in a US-Israel attack, has sparked widespread speculation amid escalating conflict and negotiations with the West. Experts suggest the regime is using his name as a political shield to legitimise decisions without his direct involvement, contrasting sharply with his father's visible leadership. The US, under President Trump, views this as a regime shift leading to more cooperative negotiators, though the decentralised and ideologically rigid Iranian system complicates diplomacy.

Government Targets 82.9 Million Indonesian Children to Receive Free Nutritious Meals by 2026

The Indonesian government, through the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), aims to provide the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to 82.9 million children by 2026, up from the current 62 million beneficiaries, as a flagship initiative of President Prabowo Subianto to realise the Golden Indonesia vision by 2045. Launched in early January 2025, the programme is expected to significantly impact stunting prevention and societal productivity. In West Sumatra, particularly Padang, the initiative involves 402 service units and circulates approximately Rp400 billion in local funding, with emphasis on hygiene standards and enjoyable meals.

Semarang City Government Ensures Comprehensive Care for Female Student Victim of Burning Incident

The Semarang City Government has swiftly responded to the tragic case of a second-year junior high school student, identified by the initials T, who was burned by her own uncle in Tambakmulyo, North Semarang, by coordinating with relevant agencies to provide protection and medical treatment. Previously hindered by treatment costs at a private hospital, the victim has now been transferred to the public K.R.M.T Wongsonegoro Hospital for intensive care, addressing her 30% burns on her right arm and back, while social services have supplied logistical aid to the family. This intervention underscores the local authority's commitment to supporting underage victims of violence through women's and children's protection services.

YouTube Finally Complies with PP Tunas: We Align with the Government

YouTube has announced its compliance with Indonesia's Government Regulation on Child Protection in the Management of Electronic Systems (PP Tunas), which restricts access for users under 16, following an administrative warning from the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs. The platform's Asia Pacific government relations head emphasised YouTube's long-standing investment in child and adolescent safety online, aligning with the government's commitment. This brings all seven major platforms, including X, TikTok, and Meta's services, into full compliance to safeguard Indonesian children in the digital space.

Majalengka DKP3 Ensures Sufficient Subsidised Fertiliser Stock for MT II

The Majalengka District Food Security, Agriculture, and Fisheries Office (DKP3) has confirmed that subsidised fertiliser stocks are secure and adequate to meet farmers' needs during the second planting season (MT II) in 2026, with allocations including 36.4 million kilograms of Urea, 28.514 million kilograms of NPK, 56,000 kilograms of organic fertiliser, and 354,000 kilograms of ZA. In response to forecasts of a prolonged dry season by the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the office is urging farmers to accelerate planting and has coordinated with relevant agencies for water supply measures, including distributing water pumps from the Ministry of Agriculture. This preparation, supported by agricultural extension services for optimal crop and fertiliser management, follows a strong rice production of 204,261 tonnes from 31,253 hectares harvested between January and March 2026.

Organic Coconut Sugar from Indonesian SMEs Penetrates Ghanaian Market

The Indonesian Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs, in collaboration with the Swiss Import Promotion Programme (SIPPO), has facilitated the export of 24 tonnes of organic coconut sugar and natural liquid coconut sugar produced by local SMEs to Ghana, valued at US$63,400 (approximately Rp1.1 billion). This shipment, released in Semarang, underscores the success of the 2025 European Selling Mission and highlights Indonesian SMEs' ability to meet global standards in sustainability, food safety, and supply consistency. The partnership aims to expand access to non-traditional markets like Africa, empowering SMEs to elevate their operations and boost international trade opportunities.

Surabaya City Government Launches Medical Tourism, Ready to Serve Local and Global Patients

The Surabaya City Government has officially launched a medical tourism programme integrating eight certified hospitals with tourism services to provide comprehensive healthcare alternatives for Indonesians and international patients, reducing the need to seek treatment abroad. Mayor Eri Cahyadi highlighted the city's advanced medical facilities and collaborations with travel agencies for seamless packages including airport pickups, treatments, and recovery tourism, aiming to position Surabaya as a key health destination. With targeted promotions and more affordable costs compared to Malaysia and Singapore, the initiative expects 500 to 1,000 patients in the initial months, boosting local economy and confidence in domestic healthcare.

Non-Procedural Migrant Worker from West Lombok Dies in Malaysia

Siti Aminah, a 39-year-old Indonesian migrant worker from West Lombok, died from a haemorrhagic stroke in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on 15 April 2026. Her body was repatriated to Lombok with assistance from the NTB Labour and Transmigration Office, the Indonesian Embassy, and local legislators, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by non-procedural migrant workers from low-income families. Officials reiterated their commitment to supporting Indonesian workers abroad and urged prospective migrants to follow proper procedures to avoid such risks.

1,000 Trees Planted in Bekasi's Eduforest Urban Forest for Earth Day

On Earth Day, a collaborative effort by the West Java Forestry Service and Cermati Fintech Group resulted in the planting of 1,000 hardwood tree saplings in Bekasi's Eduforest Urban Forest to promote environmental sustainability. The initiative, involving local stakeholders and company employees, aims to enhance carbon absorption and bolster the area's ecological and educational functions. This corporate social responsibility programme underscores the role of businesses in fostering long-term environmental conservation and raising public awareness about sustainable resource management.

From Kartini to Malahayati: The Footprints of Muslim Women Fighters for Indonesia's Independence

The article highlights the significant contributions of Muslim women to Indonesia's independence struggle, from Raden Ajeng Kartini, who pioneered women's emancipation and education, to Cut Nyak Dhien, who led battles against Dutch colonisers in Aceh. Other figures like Rasuna Said and Opu Daeng Risaju are noted for their advocacy for women's rights and political mobilisation through organisations such as the Indonesian Islamic Union Party. This piece underscores the often-overlooked roles of women in shaping the nation's history, particularly resonant on Kartini Day, emphasising their enduring legacy in promoting gender equality and national progress.

Indonesian Minister of Trade Welcomes The 2nd IBOS Expo 2026 as a National Business Opportunity Exhibition

The Indonesian Minister of Trade, Dr. Budi Santoso, has positively received the plans for the 2nd IBOS Expo 2026, viewing it as a key initiative to bolster domestic trade by enhancing market access, distribution networks, and business partnerships for local brands. Organised by INFOBRAND Group, the expo will connect over 120 exhibitors from various sectors with potential partners, aiming to attract more than 7,500 visitors over three days and foster economic growth through government-industry collaboration. This event underscores the importance of cross-sector synergies in building a sustainable ecosystem for competitive national brands.

Head of Traffic Corps Pushes for Formation of Nusantara Ojol Association as Platform for Traffic Safety Collaboration

The Head of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps, Irjen Agus Suryonugroho, met with representatives from online motorcycle taxi (ojol) communities across Indonesia to address their concerns and advocate for the establishment of the Nusantara Ojol Association to foster collaboration on traffic safety. The gathering, part of the Polantas Menyapa dan Melayani programme, involved discussions on administrative issues, road safety, and partnerships with entities like PT Jasa Raharja to reduce accident fatalities through digital reporting tools and emergency responses. This initiative aims to build a stronger ecosystem for transportation safety, enhancing ties between police, drivers, and the community for more orderly and secure roads.

BI Governor: Banking Resilience Strong to Mitigate War Impacts

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo has affirmed that the national banking sector remains robust, capable of mitigating risks from the Middle East conflict, supported by adequate liquidity, high capital adequacy ratios of 25.83%, and low non-performing loans at 2.17% gross. Bank credit growth accelerated to 9.49% year-on-year in March 2026, driven by investment, working capital, and consumer loans, with projections holding steady at 8-12% amid ample funding capacity. BI plans to enhance banking funding mechanisms, including non-traditional instruments, to sustain credit disbursement and financial system stability.

Legislator Warns Recruitment of 30,000 Kopdes Merah Putih Managers Should Not Become a Political Tool

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VI, Mufti Anam, has welcomed the government's initiative to recruit 30,000 managers for the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (Kopdes Merah Putih) as a step towards job creation and strengthening rural economies. However, he cautioned that the recruitment process must be professional, transparent, and free from political interference to avoid turning the cooperatives into tools for power distribution rather than instruments of people's economy. Anam also urged the government to prioritise villagers already involved in the programme to maintain fairness and avoid alienating long-time contributors.

Hary Tanoesoedibjo Ordered to Pay Rp 531 Billion Plus Interest to CMNP

The Central Jakarta District Court has ruled that businessman Hary Tanoesoedibjo and PT MNC Asia Holding must jointly pay approximately Rp 531 billion in material damages, plus 6% annual interest from 9 May 2002 until full payment, to PT Citra Marga Nusaphala Persada Tbk (CMNP). The court also awarded Rp 50 billion in immaterial damages and court costs of Rp 5.024 million, finding the defendants liable for unlawful acts causing loss to CMNP. This decision stems from a lawsuit filed in August 2025 seeking trillions in compensation, highlighting a major corporate dispute in Indonesia's infrastructure sector.

Three inaugural groups of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia

The first three kloter of Indonesian Hajj pilgrims for 2026 arrived smoothly in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, benefiting from the expedited Makkah Route immigration process facilitated by Saudi authorities. Indonesian Ambassador Abdul Aziz Ahmad praised the efficient services and strategic hotel placements near Masjid Nabawi, ensuring comfort and easy access to worship for the approximately 1,100 pilgrims in these initial groups. This marks a strong start to the Hajj operations, involving Garuda Indonesia and Saudia Airlines for the transportation of over 100,000 pilgrims from various embarkation points.

Indonesia Condemns Israeli Forces for Erecting 'Rising Lion' Banner on Ruins of Indonesian Hospital in Gaza

The Indonesian government has strongly condemned Israeli forces for placing a 'Rising Lion' banner on the ruins of the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza, describing the act as provocative propaganda on a civilian facility dedicated to healthcare for Palestinians. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised that the hospital was built through Indonesian solidarity and urged Israel to cease violations against civilian infrastructure and ensure accountability for attacks on medical facilities. This incident underscores ongoing tensions in the Israel-Palestine conflict and Indonesia's firm stance in support of Palestinian humanitarian efforts.

BI Governor Pledges to Maintain Primary Money Growth Above 12% This Year

Bank Indonesia's Governor Perry Warjiyo has committed to sustaining primary money (M0) growth above 10-12% in the coming period to support double-digit expansion. In March 2026, M0 growth stood at 11.8% year-on-year, driven by a 38.3% increase in commercial bank deposits at BI and an 8.6% rise in currency in circulation, influenced by fiscal expansion and monetary operations. BI plans to achieve this through liquidity expansion tools such as issuing SRBI securities, purchasing government securities from the secondary market, and providing remuneration on excess bank reserves to channel liquidity to the real sector.

Global dairy product prices fall amid geopolitical uncertainty

Global dairy product prices continued to decline in the latest auction session, dropping 2.7% to US$4,143 per tonne, driven by abundant supply and geopolitical tensions that are weakening demand and increasing costs. Despite seasonal production dips in New Zealand, stable European output is adding downward pressure on dairy fat prices, while conflicts involving Iran are raising shipping, insurance, and input costs. Disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz and high oil prices are prompting buyers to delay purchases in anticipation of lower costs and clearer logistics.