Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 April 2026

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Humanoid Robot to Serve as Baggage Handler at Tokyo's Haneda Airport

Japan Airlines will trial a humanoid robot from Chinese firm Unitree as a baggage handler at Haneda Airport starting early May 2026, addressing Japan's chronic labour shortages amid rising foreign tourism. The 130 cm tall robot will move passenger luggage and cargo on the apron, with the programme running until 2028 in partnership with Japan Airlines GMO Internet Group. While the robot demonstrated basic tasks like pushing cargo to conveyor belts, its capabilities remain limited, requiring recharges every two to three hours, and critical safety management will stay under human control.

Tempo's Fact-Check Newsgame Wins Digital Media Award

Tempo, an Indonesian news outlet, has secured a Silver award in the Best in Countering Disinformation category at the Digital Media Awards Asia 2026 for its innovative newsgame "Detektif Deepfake," which educates users on identifying AI-generated deepfakes through interactive gameplay. Developed by Tempo's Fact-Check team and Media Lab in 2025, the programme addresses the growing accessibility of AI tools for creating disinformation, aiming to equip the public with essential skills to distinguish authentic content from manipulated media. This recognition highlights Tempo's commitment to combating misinformation via engaging educational formats, with the newsgame continuing to be utilised in fact-checking classes and available publicly as a teaching resource.

Tax Office Confirms No Further Extension for Individual Income Tax Return Filing

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has confirmed that there will be no additional extension for submitting individual income tax returns (SPT PPh), with the deadline firmly set for 30 April 2026 after a one-month grace period from the original 31 March date. Director General Bimo Wijayanto warned that non-compliant taxpayers will face administrative fines and potential criminal penalties as per regulations. This announcement comes amid positive cumulative tax revenue growth and a 67% compliance rate for corporate tax returns, underscoring the government's push for fiscal accountability.

National Education Day on 2 May 2026: Will There Be a Ceremony? See the Guidelines

The Indonesian Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has issued guidelines urging educational institutions, central and regional government offices, and Indonesian representatives abroad to hold flag-raising ceremonies on 2 May 2026 to commemorate National Education Day. The ceremonies, scheduled for 07:30 local time, will feature traditional attire to foster nationalism and cultural preservation, along with a structured programme including the national anthem, Pancasila recitation, and the Minister's address. This observance underscores the government's commitment to promoting education, patriotism, and cultural heritage across the nation.

More People Uninstalling ChatGPT, Here's the Reason

A growing number of users are uninstalling the ChatGPT app due to OpenAI's controversial partnership with the US government, particularly a contract with the Pentagon, which contrasts sharply with rival Anthropic's refusal to collaborate on military applications. This backlash has led to a 132% year-over-year increase in uninstalls in April 2026 and a staggering 413% surge in March 2026, contributing to OpenAI missing its 2025 targets for weekly active users and annual revenue. Meanwhile, Anthropic's Claude app is experiencing explosive growth, with downloads up 1,000% year-over-year, and the company surpassing OpenAI's valuation at US$1 trillion in secondary markets.

Understand What Buy Now Pay Later in Indonesia Is Before Using It, Check Here!

Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services in Indonesia allow users to purchase goods or services immediately and pay later, either in full or in instalments, offering a flexible alternative to traditional credit without requiring a credit card. These digital applications provide users with a spending limit for various transactions, including online shopping and bill payments, and have gained popularity due to their simplicity, speed, and alignment with modern financial management needs. However, users are advised to fully understand the terms, including interest rates and repayment schedules, to avoid potential financial risks.

Viral Video Shows Two Bali Police Nearly Extorting Foreign Tourists for Rp 500,000 Fine

A viral video captured two Bali police officers at a checkpoint nearly imposing a Rp 500,000 fine on a pair of foreign tourists for traffic violations, including running a red light and not wearing a helmet, but they released them with just a warning upon realising the interaction was being recorded. The incident, which occurred in March 2024, has drawn public backlash for potentially tarnishing Bali's tourism image and the police force's reputation. Badung Police Chief AKBP Joseph Edward Purba apologised, confirmed no money was exchanged, and pledged an investigation to uphold institutional integrity.

Gerindra Legislator Provides Shoe Assistance to Students in Samosir Regency

A Gerindra Party legislator, Sabam Rajagukguk, swiftly responded to a viral social media post highlighting the poor condition of students' shoes in Samosir Regency by providing new footwear to pupils at two primary schools. The initiative, prompted by a mobile library teacher's upload, also included pocket money donations, earning widespread appreciation for its promptness and care. This act underscores the party's commitment to addressing grassroots educational needs under President Prabowo Subianto's leadership.

AIA Director Rista Qatrini: Women Have Dual Roles

Rista Qatrini Manurung, Director of Legal and Compliance at AIA, highlighted the strength of women in managing multiple roles, from motherhood and family responsibilities to professional leadership, urging them to overcome self-doubt and embrace their potential. She emphasised leading with empathy and humanity in the insurance industry, aligning with AIA's principles of Clarity, Courage, and Humanity to foster trust and ethical practices among employees and consumers. Recognised with the Top Women in Financial Protection award at Top Women Fest 2026, Qatrini's insights underscore the importance of ethical values and empathetic performance evaluations in corporate success.

Minister of Housing and Settlements Invites PIKI to Introduce Innovations for Housing Policies

Indonesia's Minister of Housing and Settlements, Maruarar Sirait, has urged intellectuals from the Indonesian Christian Intelligentsia Association (PIKI) to contribute innovative ideas for pro-people housing policies. She highlighted key breakthroughs under President Prabowo Subianto's administration, including exemptions from building permits, land acquisition taxes, and VAT for low-income groups, alongside the largest-ever subsidy quota of 350,000 units and enhanced self-help housing assistance programs. Amid budget constraints, the government is pushing private sector collaborations to expand access, emphasising the vital role of intellectuals in fostering policies that benefit citizens, the nation, and businesses to stimulate the economy.

Indonesian Police Follow Up on Arrest of Three Indonesian Nationals in Mecca for Alleged Hajj Fraud

Indonesian National Police (Polri), as part of the Hajj and Umrah Task Force, is addressing the arrest of three Indonesian citizens in Mecca by Saudi Arabian authorities on suspicion of hajj service fraud, involving the production and advertisement of fake documents. Polri is collaborating with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Indonesian Embassy in Riyadh to communicate with Saudi police and provide legal assistance, emphasising Indonesia's duty to support its nationals facing legal issues abroad. The case highlights concerns over illegal hajj practices, with evidence including cash, computers, and counterfeit hajj cards seized, and ongoing verification by the Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah to ensure proper legal proceedings.

Business Revenue Grows 10.4%, Jasa Marga Records Net Profit of Rp774.7 Billion in First Quarter of 2026

PT Jasa Marga (Persero) Tbk reported a strong start to 2026, with first-quarter business revenue reaching Rp5.1 trillion, a 10.4% increase from the previous year, driven by toll revenue and other operations. The company achieved an EBITDA of Rp3.4 trillion and a net profit of Rp774.7 billion, maintaining solid fundamentals despite higher financing costs from new toll roads like Jogja-Solo. As Indonesia's leading toll road operator managing 1,294 km of operational highways, Jasa Marga is advancing strategic expansions and enhancing user services to ensure sustainable growth and national mobility.

State Budget Unable to Cover Conservation Costs, Government Relies on Blended Financing

The Indonesian government is addressing a significant funding gap in national park management, where the state budget covers only about 30% of needs, by establishing a task force for innovative financing and promoting blended finance schemes that combine public, private, and philanthropic funds. This approach aims to enhance ecological functions, biodiversity conservation, and economic benefits like ecotourism and carbon trading, while ensuring community involvement for sustainability. Thirteen national parks and two priority landscapes have been selected as pilot projects to test these models, with emphasis on prioritising ecology over tourism.

People-to-people ties key to Georgia-Indonesia relations: envoy

The Georgian Ambassador to Indonesia, Nozadze, emphasised the importance of people-to-people contacts in strengthening bilateral relations, highlighting shared cultural similarities in cuisine that appeal to both Indonesians and Georgians. He noted expanding cooperation in regional ties, such as potential sister city partnerships with Sukabumi, and student exchange programmes to foster future generations. Economically, Georgia positions itself as a vital transit hub between Asia and Europe, with modernised infrastructure and a new Black Sea port to boost trade, underscoring its commitment to enhancing political, economic, and cultural ties with Indonesia amid the latter's growing influence in ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific.

Criticism of Free Private School Programme in Jakarta, DPRD: Madrasahs Not Yet Included

The Jakarta Provincial Government plans to expand its free private school programme to 103 schools for the 2026-2027 academic year, up from 40 the previous year, but faces criticism from DPRD members for excluding madrasahs under the Ministry of Religious Affairs. Komisi E Chairman M Subki urged inclusion of madrasahs to avoid discrimination against students and parents who pay taxes in Jakarta, while Komisi C member Lukmanul Hakim highlighted that the programme misses the mark as dropout rates remain high in areas like Cengkareng, undermining the city's global aspirations. This debate underscores the need for more equitable and targeted educational policies in the capital.

Following Bekasi Train Tragedy, Police to Summon EV Taxi Entrepreneurs

In response to a recent train accident in East Bekasi, the Indonesian National Police's Traffic Corps (Korlantas Polri) plans to summon taxi operators, particularly those using electric vehicles (EVs), for emergency procedure training. Brigadier General Faizal, Director of Law Enforcement at Korlantas Polri, highlighted the need to educate drivers on handling EV breakdowns at railway crossings, as these vehicles require different procedures compared to manual ones to ensure track safety. This initiative involves regulators and manufacturers to enhance driver preparedness and prevent future risks.

Social Programme Supports Inclusive Education

Access to education for people with disabilities remains a challenge in Indonesia, amid efforts to equalise the quality of human resources, with cross-sector support deemed essential to extend inclusive education to more vulnerable groups. PT Indonesia Infrastructure Finance (IIF) has engaged in this effort by partnering with Yayasan Helping Hands to provide disability communication education, career introduction, and interactive activities for visually impaired students at SLB-A Pembina Tingkat Nasional Jakarta, along with laptops and Rp25 million in educational support. This initiative, part of IIF's employee engagement programme, aims to build confidence and readiness for the workforce among disabled students, underscoring the need for ongoing collaborative efforts to foster equitable and sustainable human resource development.

List of Family Assets Worth Rp15.3 Billion Seized by Bareskrim from Ko Erwin: Shophouses to Cars

Indonesian police's Bareskrim unit has seized assets valued at Rp15.3 billion from the family of notorious drug lord Ko Erwin as part of an investigation into money laundering linked to narcotics proceeds. The assets, including vehicles, shophouses, warehouses, and land certificates, were confiscated from Ko Erwin's wife Virda Virginia Pahlevi and their children Hadi Sumarho Iskandar and Christina Aurelia, all named as suspects in the case. This action underscores Bareskrim's strategy to impoverish drug networks through anti-money laundering measures, aiming to deter future criminal activities beyond mere arrests.

Cak Imin Urges Protection for Workers Following Train Accident, Highlights Plight of Informal Workers

Following a fatal train collision in Bekasi that claimed the life of a Kompas TV employee, Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin, has called for stronger social protections for workers, emphasising the need for comprehensive BPJS Ketenagakerjaan coverage in emergencies. He urged companies to register all employees, including informal workers, under social security schemes, with government subsidies to support the latter group until they achieve economic independence. Cak Imin also stressed the importance of cross-sectoral coordination and community involvement to prevent future transport accidents.

Georgia plays a key role in securing global energy: Ambassador

Georgia's ambassador highlighted the country's pivotal role in enhancing global energy security by providing reliable and diversified routes through the South Caucasus corridor, connecting Europe and Asia amid ongoing global supply disruptions. He emphasised commitments to infrastructure development, regional cooperation, and stability, including oil and gas pipelines from the Caspian Basin and a new EU-Georgian project for a high-voltage cable across the Black Sea to deliver clean energy. Georgia remains open to partnerships with Asian nations like Indonesia, balancing Euro-Atlantic integration with broader international collaborations.

IKN Authority Assists Local Communities' Capacity and Economic Independence

The IKN Authority is enhancing the economic capacity and independence of local communities around Indonesia's new capital by empowering them in various sectors, particularly through ecoprint training for batik artisans to boost the creative economy. In collaboration with Bank Indonesia, the initiative focuses on developing local potential in the wastra subsector, strengthening UMKM through institutional building, capacity enhancement, and financing access to foster sustainable growth. Participants view the training as beneficial for innovation and express hopes for ongoing support to form community-based enterprises, ultimately aiming to eradicate poverty via human resource development and increased product competitiveness.

Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Opens Recruitment for 20,000 Modern Fishing Vessel Crew Members

The Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has launched a recruitment drive for approximately 20,000 fishing vessel crew members to support the operationalisation of 1,582 modern fishing vessels under a national modernisation programme. This initiative, which includes detailed staffing requirements for various vessel sizes and roles, aims to build an integrated human resource management system for the capture fisheries sector, potentially engaging over 500,000 workers in the broader ecosystem. Backed by a £4 billion maritime investment agreement with the UK, the programme is expected to boost domestic production and employment in the fishing industry until 2028.

Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah Coordinates with Saudi Authorities on Illegal Hajj Case

The Indonesian Consulate General in Jeddah has pledged active involvement in addressing allegations of Indonesian nationals' involvement in illegal Hajj practices in Mecca, coordinating with Saudi security forces to oversee the legal proceedings against three suspects arrested on Tuesday. Initial evidence from the raid on their residence points to unauthorised Hajj operations, with two suspects apprehended while wearing Indonesian Hajj official attire, and their identities are currently under verification. Amid Saudi crackdowns on tasreh violations, the consulate urges all Indonesians to strictly adhere to official Hajj permit requirements to avoid legal repercussions.

Free schools in Jakarta expected to curb out-of-school children

The Jakarta Provincial Government is launching 103 free schools to address financial barriers preventing children from attending school, as stated by Governor Anung during a session at the Jakarta Regional Legislative Council. This initiative complements existing programmes like the Jakarta Smart Card and school diploma releases, underscoring the government's commitment to education amid concerns over more than 22,000 out-of-school children in North Jakarta alone. Legislative members emphasise the need for expanded coverage and proactive outreach to parents, highlighting socio-cultural factors beyond economics, to bolster Jakarta's status as a global city.

Directorate General of Immigration Disseminates Services for International Athletes and Performers

The Directorate General of Immigration under the Ministry of Immigration and Correctional Services has initiated a dissemination programme to streamline immigration services for international athletes and performers, aiming to accelerate Indonesia's economy by facilitating world-class entertainment and sports events without administrative hurdles. Held in Jakarta, the event gathered promoters, impresarios, and sports organisations to gather input on enhancing support for international sports, arts, and cultural events. Director General Hendarsam Marantoko emphasised that these facilitative measures, including dedicated teams for visa processing and airport checks, will promote Indonesia positively while adhering to existing regulations, positioning participants as immigration ambassadors to boost economic activity.

Indonesian Army opens 7,217 clean water sites since 2020: Chief

The Indonesian Army, under Chief General Agus Subiyanto, has established 7,217 clean water sites across drought-prone regions since 2020 to address limited access to clean water for household and farming needs. Speaking at a military gathering in Bogor, the general highlighted his personal observations driving the initiative, which expands the army's role to public welfare in line with President Prabowo Subianto's efforts to improve living standards. The army is committed to sustaining and broadening the programme to benefit more communities nationwide.

How Resilient Is Your Finances If You Experience an Accident?

The tragic collision between the KA Argo Bromo Anggrek train and a KRL Commuter Line at Bekasi Timur Station on 27 April 2026, which claimed 16 lives and injured 91 others, underscores the sudden financial risks posed by unforeseen accidents. While PT Jasa Raharja provides basic compensation of Rp50 million for fatalities and up to Rp20 million for medical treatment, these amounts often fall short of covering long-term needs, highlighting the gap between public protections and real-life demands. The article advocates for comprehensive personal insurance solutions, including accident, health, life, and travel policies, to enhance financial resilience and prevent sudden poverty in the face of such tragedies.

4,000 Corporate Taxpayers Apply for Reporting Relaxation to DJP

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) under the Ministry of Finance has received approximately 4,000 requests for tax reporting relaxation from corporate taxpayers, prompting the decision to extend the deadline until 31 May 2026 without penalties. This measure follows a high volume of applications from businesses and the public, while tax payment relaxation remains under review to align with legal requirements and national revenue targets. As of 30 April 2026, 12.7 million tax returns have been submitted, representing 67% of the total, with overall tax receipts showing positive growth compared to the previous year.

KNKT Simulates Signalling System Following KRL–Argo Bromo Accident in East Bekasi

The National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) has conducted a simulation of the railway signalling system as part of its investigation into the collision between a commuter train (KRL) and the Argo Bromo Anggrek train at Bekasi Timur Station, which resulted in 16 deaths and 91 injuries. The Ministry of Transportation fully supports the probe, emphasising technical causes related to signalling functions, and commits to implementing recommendations to enhance rail safety. Long-distance train services have resumed operations with cautious adjustments to ensure safe and controlled travel.

This Hotel in Jakarta's Old Town Houses Prince Diponegoro's Suitcase

The Hotel House of Tugu in Jakarta's Old Town preserves Prince Diponegoro's 1834 suitcase, a silent witness to his struggle against Dutch colonial rule, displayed behind a large statue and accessible only to tour participants. The hotel also houses historical artefacts such as Soekarno's handwritten letters, a functional tram dining area, and a massive ceremonial tiger boat used for rituals on the Kali Besar waterway. Originally part of the enigmatic "Forbidden House of Batavia" built by an introverted Chinese merchant, the site now immerses guests in the rich historical tapestry of the Old Town, blending colonial-era architecture with stories of Indonesian heritage.

Ministry of Finance Extends Deadline for Corporate Income Tax Return Filing until 31 May 2026

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance, through its Director General of Taxation Bimo Wijayanto, plans to extend the deadline for submitting annual corporate income tax returns (SPT PPh Badan) to 31 May 2026, following directives from Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa and input from taxpayers. This relaxation addresses around 4,000 requests from corporate taxpayers, as well as appeals from the public and tax intermediary associations, aiming to provide certainty and additional time for administrative preparation without compromising the positive growth in tax revenue observed up to April. As of 30 April 2026, 12.7 million returns have been filed, reaching 83.2% of the 15 million target, with an official decision imminent.

Indonesia's Hajj Ministry tightens food safety with mandatory checks

Indonesia's Hajj Ministry is intensifying food safety measures ahead of the arrival of the first batch of pilgrims in Mecca, with daily quality and hygiene assessments on all meals produced by catering facilities. The Mecca PPIH office has inspected and approved a major kitchen capable of producing over 6,000 portions per session, ensuring nutritionally balanced Indonesian dishes are provided three times a day to help pilgrims maintain fitness in Saudi Arabia's extreme weather. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to pilgrim health, advising against bringing personal food to focus on worship and rest.

Viral Video of Forcing Child to Beg at Kanjuruhan CFD Leads to Parents' Arrest in Malang

A couple from Kepanjen, Malang, identified as FN (27) and EP (36), have been detained by police for allegedly exploiting their child economically by forcing them to beg and busk since the age of two months. The incident gained attention after a video of the child begging at the Kanjuruhan Car Free Day went viral on social media, with the mother supervising using a portable speaker and the father transporting and alternating in the activity. Authorities from Malang Police Resort's Child Protection Unit classify this as child economic exploitation, noting similar activities at markets and crowded places, highlighting ongoing issues with child welfare in Indonesia.

Parliament Calls for Legal Action Against Three Indonesians Involved in Illegal Hajj in Mecca

Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has urged authorities to prosecute three Indonesian citizens arrested in Mecca for their alleged involvement in an illegal Hajj syndicate that deceived prospective pilgrims through misleading social media advertisements. Deputy Chairman of Commission VIII, Abidin Fikri, emphasised the need for fair legal processes, revocation of official Hajj officer status if applicable, and repatriation, while supporting Saudi Arabia's crackdown on such fraudulent practices. The incident underscores the importance of adhering to official Hajj regulations to protect pilgrims and maintain strong bilateral ties between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.

Turning Danantara into the National Value Engine

The opinion piece argues that Danantara, Indonesia's new sovereign wealth fund, has immense potential to drive long-term national economic value through investments in key sectors like energy, downstreaming, and industry, but its success hinges on clear mandates, robust governance, and measurable outcomes. Drawing lessons from successful global funds in Norway, Canada, and Singapore, it stresses the need for transparency, risk management, and a focus on net national value creation to build market confidence and attract private capital. With proper design, Danantara could serve as a credible catalyst for enhancing Indonesia's industrial structure and competitiveness.

Ministry of SMEs, Surakarta City Government, and BENAR Foundation Provide Free AI Access to 100 Surakarta SMEs

The Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs, in collaboration with the Surakarta City Government and the BENAR Foundation, has launched a programme granting 100 selected small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Surakarta free access to the MWX AI application to enhance daily operations such as content creation, bookkeeping, market analysis, and marketing strategies. Titled "From Marketplace to AI for Micro Enterprises to Level Up," the initiative includes workshops training participants in key AI competencies to promote digital transformation and financial inclusion among SMEs. This collaboration underscores a concerted effort to democratise advanced technology, enabling micro-entrepreneurs to compete more effectively without requiring technical expertise.

NTB Provincial Government Strengthens Proposal for Tambora to Join UNESCO Global Geopark

The West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) provincial government is bolstering its proposal to include Tambora Geopark in the UNESCO Global Geopark network, following the successful recognition of Rinjani Geopark. Led by the Regional Development Planning Agency (Bappeda), efforts include preparing supporting narratives and pursuing official certification to promote international appreciation and economic empowerment. This initiative aims to position NTB with two UNESCO-recognised geoparks, highlighting Tambora's geological and historical significance as an active volcano and key ecotourism site.

Ministry of Hajj to Enhance Polri's Technical Involvement in Saudi Arabia

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has agreed to request additional technical personnel from the Indonesian National Police (Polri) in Saudi Arabia to strengthen coordination with local authorities on Hajj management and pilgrim protection. This initiative follows a meeting between Deputy Minister Dahnil Anzar Simanjuntak and Deputy Police Chief Komjen Pol Dedi Prasetyo, focusing on preventing illegal Hajj practices through inter-agency task forces and addressing crimes involving Indonesian citizens, such as recent arrests for document fraud. Kemenhaj is investigating the case to evaluate and tighten recruitment processes, ensuring safer and more regulated Hajj operations.

Ministry of Hajj Issues Regulation Prohibiting Pilgrims and KBIHU from City Tours Before Armuzna Phase

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued a circular banning Hajj pilgrims and pilgrimage guidance groups (KBIHU) from conducting sightseeing trips or visits outside Madinah and Mecca prior to the completion of the peak Hajj phase, known as Armuzna, which encompasses Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina. This measure aims to ensure pilgrims' physical, mental, and spiritual readiness for the core rituals, with guidance groups instructed to focus on preparation activities instead. As of the tenth day of operations for Hajj 1447H/2026M, over 54,000 pilgrims have departed for the Holy Land, with movements from Madinah to Mecca underway, alongside reports of five pilgrim deaths and ongoing medical referrals.

Efforts to Combat Malaria in Jayapura (2)

The Jayapura City Health Department reports that malaria remains the most prevalent disease in the area, exacerbated by geographical challenges such as mountainous terrain, remote settlements, and limited access to modern healthcare facilities. To address this, the local government is actively distributing insecticide-treated mosquito nets on a routine and mass scale, with 115,427 nets provided to 14 sub-districts and villages in 2025 as a key strategy to reduce cases. This initiative underscores the ongoing public health efforts in Papua to mitigate the impact of endemic diseases on communities.

Climate Change Mitigation: PLN Partners with UNOPS to Boost National Renewable Energy Utilisation

State-owned electricity company PLN has signed a partnership agreement with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) to enhance the utilisation of renewable energy sources as part of its sustainability commitments amid climate change mitigation efforts. The collaboration focuses on strategies for transitioning coal-fired power plants, developing smart grids and energy storage systems, and supporting renewable energy initiatives, aiming to accelerate Indonesia's energy transition and achieve national energy sovereignty. Key figures from PLN and the UN emphasise the global nature of the climate crisis and the role of international partnerships in mobilising investments and building a resilient, green economy.

Hongqi Has Its Own Market in the Luxury Car Segment, Suitable for Officials

Indomobil Group plans to introduce the Chinese luxury car brand Hongqi to the Indonesian market, aiming to expand premium vehicle options amid growing interest in electric cars and Chinese automotive brands. Hongqi, established in 1958 by FAW Group, targets a specific segment in Indonesia, with indications of potential interested consumers, possibly including officials. This move aligns with the expanding luxury car market in Indonesia, driven by affluent consumers and electrification trends, featuring models like the premium sedan Hongqi H9 and the large electric SUV E-HS9.

Foreign Media Suddenly Spotlights Bali, Citing Rubbish to Rats

French news agency AFP has highlighted a mounting rubbish crisis in Bali following the closure of its largest landfill to organic waste in early April, as the government enforces a longstanding ban on open dumping. Without immediate alternatives, waste is piling up on streets, attracting rats and prompting frustrated residents to burn it, raising health concerns and deterring tourists in areas like Kuta Beach. This situation stems from Indonesia's 2008 Waste Management Law, which mandates safer disposal methods but has seen uneven implementation, underscoring challenges in balancing environmental regulations with Bali's booming tourism industry.

Pertamina Commits to Increasing Female Workforce in Maritime Sector

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has pledged to boost the number of female workers in the maritime sector as part of its efforts to foster inclusive human resources development. The company views enhancing women's roles not only as a matter of equality but also as a strategy to build adaptable, globally competitive talent, aligning with its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. Currently, women make up about 2% of the crew on Pertamina's vessels, highlighting significant potential for greater participation in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Banten Provincial Government Partners with 801 Private Schools in Free School Programme

The Banten Provincial Government is expanding access to quality education by collaborating with 801 private high schools, vocational schools, and skills schools for a free schooling programme starting in the 2026/2027 academic year, accommodating around 60,000 students who may not secure places in public institutions. This initiative, mandated by the Governor and Deputy Governor, underscores education's role in achieving Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045, with a focus on objective selection processes and data validation via an online portal. The programme maintains standard admission pathways for public schools, including quotas for domicile, achievements, affirmative action, and mutations, while vocational schools emphasise aptitude tests to match students with relevant expertise.

Government supports strengthening West Sumatra as a Muslim-friendly tourism destination

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is backing efforts to position West Sumatra as a premier destination for gastronomic and Muslim-friendly tourism, highlighting its rich cultural, religious, and culinary attractions. During a recent visit, Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana emphasised the need for improved infrastructure, investment, and promotion to optimise tourism growth, including developing tailored tour packages and promoting sites like the iconic Masjid Raya Syekh Ahmad Khatib Al-Minangkabawi. This initiative aligns with West Sumatra's strong ranking in the Indonesia Muslim Travel Index 2025 and includes national standards for Muslim-friendly services, halal certifications for SMEs, and a planned gastronomy event in 2027 to boost the local economy.

VP Gibran reviews AI training for Islamic boarding school students

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited an Islamic boarding school to review AI and robotics training for students, emphasising the importance of equipping the younger generation with skills in coding and computational thinking to thrive in the digital era. Addressing student concerns about job displacement by technology, Gibran reassured that humans remain central to innovation and that continuous learning will create new opportunities amid technological disruption. The two-day programme for 30 senior high school students focused on problem-solving and mathematical reasoning, aligning with government efforts to prepare pesantren students for the workforce.

BRI Will Not Revise Business Plan, Domestic Economy Remains Strong

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has confirmed it will not revise its 2026 business plan amid global uncertainties, as its performance remains on track with projected credit growth of 7-9% through the end of 2026, following a 13.7% increase in the first quarter. The bank's executives highlighted the stability of Indonesia's domestic economy, driven by consistent consumer spending and SME activities, while maintaining vigilance through regular stress tests on key parameters like GDP growth, inflation, and oil prices. This stance underscores BRI's confidence in absorbing potential external pressures, with expectations of improved conditions in the second half of the year.

MP Urges Indonesian Hajj Pilgrims to Limit Non-Worship Activities

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VIII has advised prospective Hajj pilgrims to restrict activities outside of official worship to preserve their physical condition and reduce risks in the Holy Land, following a bus accident in Madinah that injured 10 Indonesian pilgrims but caused no fatalities. The recommendation emphasises focusing on core religious duties and following guidance from officials to ensure safe and devoted pilgrimage experiences. The government, including the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the Indonesian Consulate in Jeddah, has been praised for its swift response in providing medical care and support to the affected pilgrims.

Well Water in Srandakan, Bantul Residents Foams and Smells, Suspected Contaminated by SPPG Waste

Residents in Mangiran, Trimurti, Srandakan, Bantul, have reported foaming and foul-smelling well water since early April, suspected to be contaminated by liquid waste from the nearby Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) Trimurti. Affected resident Agus Indriyanto has incurred additional costs for purchased water and laundry services while awaiting resolution. The SPPG head, M Fauzan, has acknowledged responsibility and agreed to construct a borehole well for the impacted residents.