Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 April 2026

Showing 1,251-1,300 of 1,509 articles

Bali drowning in rubbish after landfill closed

Bali is facing a mounting waste crisis following the closure of its largest landfill to organic waste in April, enforcing Indonesia's longstanding ban on open tips, leading to rubbish piling up in streets, attracting rats, and prompting illegal burning by residents and businesses. Sanitation workers have protested the lack of alternatives, with the government temporarily allowing limited disposal until July but vowing to end all open landfills nationwide by August, amid concerns over health risks and environmental hazards like methane explosions. Long-term solutions include education on composting, awareness campaigns, and upcoming waste-to-energy projects, highlighting Indonesia's broader challenge in managing over 40 million tonnes of annual waste, with only a third properly processed.

Dharma Jaya to Provide 900 Cattle for Idul Adha 2026

Perumda Dharma Jaya, a regional public company in Jakarta, has set a target to supply 900 cattle for the Idul Adha 1447 Hijriah celebrations in 2026, ensuring all animals undergo strict health checks and quarantine by the DKI Jakarta Food Security, Maritime, and Agriculture Agency. The company is optimising its certified slaughterhouse facilities in Cakung, which can process up to 250 animals per day with professional staff and halal-certified butchers, while maintaining hygiene, waste management, and transparency through digital channels. This initiative aims to provide reassurance to the public for conducting their sacrificial rites with high-quality livestock and professional services.

Dahua Technology Releases 2025 ESG Report: Driving Sustainable Development through Digital Innovation

Dahua Technology has launched its seventh ESG report for 2025, highlighting its commitment to sustainable development via AIoT innovations across industries, urban management, and environmental protection. The company expanded green initiatives, including a 78% increase in solar capacity to 6.33 MW and over 150 eco-friendly product certifications, while earning a Silver Medal from EcoVadis for global sustainability efforts. Additionally, Dahua strengthened corporate governance, data security, and community contributions, such as disaster relief in Indonesia and conservation projects with WWF.

Palembang City Government Prepares Flood Task Forces at District Level

Palembang Mayor Ratu Dewa has taken full responsibility for the recent flooding caused by heavy rains, attributing it to both natural factors and human activities such as improper waste disposal and unregulated construction. In response, the city administration is implementing short-term measures like routine drain cleaning, deploying portable pumps, and establishing flood task forces at the district level involving local officials, community leaders, and religious figures. For medium- to long-term solutions, plans include expanding retention ponds, normalising river basins, enhancing green spaces, and introducing IoT technology for real-time drainage monitoring, aiming to mitigate future floods and improve urban resilience.

Saudi Arabia Arrests Three Indonesian Nationals Suspected of Offering Illegal Hajj Services in Mecca

Saudi Arabian authorities have arrested three Indonesian nationals in Mecca for allegedly posting misleading social media advertisements offering unofficial or illegal Hajj services, with cash, computer equipment, and fake Hajj identity cards seized during the operation. The arrests are part of a broader crackdown on Hajj regulation violations, including similar detentions of individuals from Yemen, Egypt, Pakistan, and Myanmar for smuggling or providing false permits, underscoring Saudi Arabia's strict enforcement to ensure the safety and integrity of the pilgrimage. Penalties include fines up to SAR 100,000 (approximately Rp 463 million) for facilitators and deportation with a 10-year entry ban for violators, highlighting the kingdom's commitment to regulating access during the Hajj season from 18 April to 31 May.

Shalawat Bus Begins Operations Today

The Indonesian Hajj Organising Committee in Saudi Arabia has launched the free Shalawat Bus service in Makkah starting 30 April 2026, to facilitate the arrival of the first wave of pilgrims from Madinah, with 56 dedicated vehicles for disabled passengers. This initiative reflects the government's enhanced focus on accessibility, increasing disability-specific buses from 52 to 56 units, operating on a reservation system for groups with at least five wheelchair users, particularly for obligatory Umrah. Operated by a consortium of six transport companies, the service uses standard city buses with a capacity of 70 passengers and ensures free transport throughout the Hajj season from accommodation to the Grand Mosque.

German Power Plant Dismantled, to Be Relocated to Ukraine

A German company has decided to dismantle a gas-fired power plant in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, previously reliant on Russian gas, and relocate it to Ukraine due to economic unviability following the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline disruptions. The move, confirmed by operator SEFE, comes after failing to find a buyer and facing high dismantling costs, with the process set to conclude by late 2026. The decision has drawn criticism from German politician Sahra Wagenknecht, who accused it of undermining national interests amid ongoing investigations into the pipeline sabotage.

Jakarta's Odd-Even Vehicle Restriction Not Applicable Tomorrow Friday

The odd-even vehicle restriction in Jakarta will be suspended on Friday, 1 May 2026, coinciding with the national Labour Day holiday, allowing all vehicles to travel freely without regard to licence plate numbers. This decision by the DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency aligns with Governor's Regulation No. 88 of 2019, which exempts such restrictions on national holidays. The suspension applies to 25 major roads, including Jalan MH Thamrin and Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, aiming to maintain smooth traffic flow while encouraging orderly driving.

VerifyVASP Acquires Sygna to Strengthen Global "Travel Rule" Network

VerifyVASP, a leading provider of Travel Rule solutions, has acquired Sygna, a prominent Japanese firm offering similar services, to bolster its global expansion strategy and solidify its role as a key compliance infrastructure provider for virtual asset service providers (VASPs) across international markets. This acquisition consolidates the previously fragmented Travel Rule ecosystem into a more integrated and interconnected network, aligning with national regulations, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards, and global data protection requirements. By integrating Sygna's members into its Verified Network, VerifyVASP enhances connectivity, interoperability, and regulatory compliance, ultimately supporting a safer and more transparent digital asset market.

Today is the Last Day to Submit the 2025 Annual Tax Return; Here's How to Do It via Coretax

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) reports a significant increase in annual income tax return (SPT Tahunan PPh) submissions for the 2025 tax year, reaching 12,639,279 reports by 29 April 2026, reflecting high taxpayer compliance, particularly among employees. Individual taxpayers, especially salaried workers, dominate the filings, with detailed breakdowns showing over 10 million from employees and smaller numbers from non-employees, corporations, and the oil and gas sector. As today marks the final deadline, the article provides guidance on preparing and submitting returns via the Coretax system, including account registration, obtaining authorisations, and downloading withholding certificates.

US Cyberscam Crackdown May End Cambodian Honeymoon

The United States has intensified its crackdown on cybercrime operations in Cambodia and Myanmar, imposing sanctions on Cambodian Senator Kok An and his network for their alleged involvement in scam compounds run by Chinese gangsters, which have defrauded billions from victims worldwide. This aggressive stance may undermine recent US efforts to build ties with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet amid geopolitical tensions with China, as analysts argue that the harms from financial fraud and human trafficking outweigh strategic alliances. Despite these measures, experts warn that the operations are resilient, shifting locations like a game of Whack-A-Mole, and call for more innovative approaches beyond standard law enforcement to dismantle the networks effectively.

Prabowo Reveals Why Other Countries Are Learning MBG from Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted Indonesia's unique achievement in implementing the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, which provides free meals to over 60 million people five times a week, including deliveries to pregnant women and the elderly, attracting interest from other nations. He noted that only China might match this scale, but emphasised Indonesia's pioneering role in a developing context. Prabowo affirmed the programme's continuation, citing its benefits for farmers and fishermen through guaranteed market absorption, countering previous issues of unsold harvests and price manipulation by middlemen.

Putin Issues Warning to Trump, Cites Dangerous Consequences in Iran

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to US President Donald Trump against resuming hostilities in Iran, emphasising that any renewed conflict or ground operations would pose severe risks to global stability amid a fragile ceasefire. This comes as Trump rejects Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, maintaining a US naval blockade, while domestic US pressures mount over the war's escalating costs exceeding $25 billion and a proposed record $1.5 trillion defence budget for 2027. The diplomatic standoff persists, with Trump urging Russia to focus on ending the Ukraine war instead, highlighting broader geopolitical tensions.

Breaking News! Oil Prices Hit US$120 per Barrel Again

Oil prices surged sharply on Thursday morning, with Brent crude reaching US$120.81 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) at US$108.17 per barrel, driven by ongoing supply disruptions in key global routes due to the unresolved conflict in the Middle East. The escalation, marking a more than 30% increase since mid-April, is exacerbated by restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, limited OPEC+ production hikes, and the United Arab Emirates' planned exit from the cartel, heightening market volatility and concerns over prolonged supply shortages.

Yusril's Proposal on Parliamentary Threshold: Political Parties Must Secure at Least 13 Seats in DPR

Yusril Ihza Mahendra, Minister Coordinator for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections, has proposed setting the parliamentary threshold for political parties at 13 seats in the DPR, based on the number of commissions in the house for the 2024-2029 period. He suggests allowing coalitions for parties that fail to meet this threshold individually to ensure no votes are wasted, advocating for amendments to the Election Law and MD3 Law to establish a fair middle-ground solution. This comes after the Constitutional Court upheld the 4% threshold for the 2024 elections but mandated changes before 2029.

CGTN: A Solid Start to China's 15th Five-Year Plan, What Does It Mean?

China's economy has achieved a solid beginning to its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030), demonstrating resilience amid external pressures and trade volatility, as highlighted in a recent Politburo meeting. The focus is shifting from property and large-scale investments to high-quality growth driven by technology, innovation, and green development, with significant gains in high-tech manufacturing sectors like AI and semiconductors. Policies promoting openness, including expanded free trade zones and reduced foreign investment restrictions, alongside boosting domestic demand, are key to ensuring stable, sustainable expansion for the world's second-largest economy.

Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro: Leading with Your Heart is Important in Many Ways

Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri has highlighted the significance of empathetic leadership, or 'leading with your heart', in shaping public policies, particularly in the trade sector, to ensure they genuinely benefit society. She emphasised the role of understanding the core purpose behind one's responsibilities, drawing from her experience as a DPR member and current position, to drive positive impacts, especially for micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM) that contribute 60% to Indonesia's GDP, with 64% led by women. The Ministry of Trade is focusing on facilitating UMKM's market access through collaborations with e-commerce, modern retail, and international networks, under the 'from local to global' programme, while balancing empathy with firmness in policy-making.

Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology collaborates with Ministry of Villages to develop science and technology-based villages

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) and the Ministry of Villages and Underdeveloped Regions (Kemendes PDT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance synergy in developing villages through science, technology, and innovation. This collaboration focuses on three key areas: strengthening village human resources, downstreaming innovations to address community needs in sectors like agriculture and local economy, and developing pilot villages as living laboratories for research implementation. The partnership aims to bridge academic research with rural development, promoting economic equity and poverty alleviation as national priorities.

BRI's Profit Reaches Rp15.5 Trillion, Credit Grows but Risks Also Rise

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk reported a net profit of Rp15.5 trillion for the first quarter of 2026, marking a 13.74% increase from the previous year, driven by a 5.94% rise in interest income and a 9.31% decline in interest expenses. The bank's total credit and financing reached Rp1,497 trillion, up 13%, supporting small business loans (KUR) and housing finance under the FLPP scheme, which benefited nearly a million customers and expanded opportunities for low- to middle-income groups. However, credit quality deteriorated with gross non-performing loans (NPL) rising to 3.31% and net NPL to 1.01%, highlighting increased risks amid aggressive lending.

North Korea Experiences Severe Drought, a Rare Phenomenon

North Korea is grappling with an unusual and severe drought this year, prompting workers to focus on protecting early-season crops amid the country's weak infrastructure and economy, which amplifies the impact of natural disasters. The state media KCNA reported efforts to repair water infrastructure and implement technical measures to mitigate damage, while highlighting ongoing food shortages as a major concern according to a UN special rapporteur. This drought, linked to climate change and potential El Niño effects, underscores the vulnerability of isolated nations like North Korea to environmental challenges that could exacerbate economic hardships.

5 Countries with the Largest Investments in Indonesia 2015-2025 - GoodStats

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Indonesia reached Rp900.9 trillion in 2025, with a marginal 0.1% growth from the previous year, playing a crucial role in the country's industrial downstreaming programme, particularly in nickel, copper, and steel sectors where FDI contributed 73.5% of total investments. Over the 2015-2025 period, Singapore led as the top investor, followed by China ($53.0 billion), Hong Kong ($49.2 billion), Japan ($42.2 billion), and Malaysia ($27.1 billion), underscoring Indonesia's appeal due to its large domestic market and productive population. Investment Minister Rosan Perkasa Roeslani reported sustained high interest from foreign investors despite global geopolitical and economic turbulence, aligning with planned targets.

China states readiness to cooperate in safeguarding global energy security

China has pledged to collaborate with international partners to maintain global energy security amid ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz caused by Middle East conflicts, which are affecting oil and LNG supplies. Despite tightening fuel exports since March to protect its domestic market, Beijing approved the export of 500,000 metric tonnes of refined fuels for May—nearly double April's volume—to several Asia-Pacific nations, driven by weakened domestic demand and lobbying from state oil firms. As the world's largest oil importer, China's strategy of diversifying suppliers and bolstering domestic production has positioned it advantageously during this crisis, contrasting with supply shortages faced by Southeast Asian neighbours.

5 Facts on Fed Holding Interest Rates: 4 Officials 'Defy' - Powell's New Fate

The US Federal Reserve has decided to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 3.5% to 3.75%, marking the first dissenting votes from four board members since 1992, highlighting internal divisions amid calls for rate cuts. Jerome Powell announced he will remain a Fed Governor after his chairmanship ends on 15 May, citing ongoing legal and political pressures threatening the institution's independence. Meanwhile, Senate committee approval advances Kevin Warsh's nomination as Powell's successor, as major US banks unexpectedly lower savings rates despite the Fed's stance.

After 4 Years of Dryness, Beo Irrigation Channel in North Sulawesi's Talaud Islands Flows Again

The Beo Irrigation Area in North Sulawesi's Talaud Islands has seen its irrigation channels restored after over four years of inactivity, thanks to a rehabilitation project led by PT Hutama Karya and initiated by the Ministry of Public Works to boost agricultural productivity and food security in this border region. This effort, part of a broader programme covering 28 sites across nine districts in North Sulawesi, upgrades the infrastructure with sturdier stone linings and normalises over three kilometres of channels, enabling previously unproductive land to be cultivated and reducing farmers' reliance on rainfall. The project not only enhances local agricultural output, which contributes 46% to the regional economy, but also strengthens food resilience by lowering harvest failure risks, with community farmer groups now involved in ongoing maintenance.

Social Minister Praises Kudus and Garut for Accelerating Permanent People's School Development

Indonesia's Social Minister Agus has commended the regencies of Kudus and Garut for their proactive efforts to expedite the construction of permanent People's Schools, aimed at educating children from the poorest deciles to break the cycle of extreme poverty by 2026. The initiative requires at least 6.8 hectares of government-owned land in safe locations, with comprehensive facilities including dormitories, classrooms, kitchens, libraries, and places of worship. Discussions also covered enhancing disaster preparedness through the Disaster-Alert Village programme, emphasising coordination between central and local governments to address challenges like land shortages and around 6,000 out-of-school children in Kudus.

IHSG Opens Weaker at 7,050, Pressured by Selling Activity at the Start of Trading

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened lower on Thursday, declining 51.17 points or 0.72% to 7,050.06, amid early selling pressure on the Indonesia Stock Exchange. Trading volume reached 7.306 billion shares valued at Rp 3.025 trillion, with most sectoral indices also in the red, including LQ45 and the Jakarta Islamic Index. Analysts predict a limited rebound for the index, influenced by the rupiah's exchange rate against the US dollar and correcting global gold prices, with support at 7,064 and resistance at 7,144.

100 Teachers in Bireuen Equipped with Disaster Preparedness, Dompet Dhuafa Promotes Safe Schools

Dompet Dhuafa's Disaster Management Center successfully conducted a Technical Guidance session on Disaster-Safe Educational Units (SPAB) in Bireuen, Aceh, training 100 primary and junior secondary school teachers from 20 schools to enhance disaster risk reduction in educational settings. The event, opened by the Deputy Regent, emphasised the role of teachers as protectors and educators in disaster awareness, with practical training on risk mapping, evacuation procedures, and simulations. This initiative, supported by local government and agencies, aims to foster a culture of disaster resilience in schools, ensuring safer learning environments amid potential hazards.

Breaking! Rupiah Weakens Further to Rp17,370/US$

The Indonesian rupiah weakened by 0.55% to Rp17,370 per US dollar on Thursday, amid ongoing pressure from a strong US dollar and the Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates steady, limiting expectations for rate cuts this year. This depreciation brings the rupiah closer to the psychological level of Rp17,400, exacerbated by market uncertainties surrounding the Iran conflict and rising oil prices, which drive investors towards safe-haven assets like the dollar. The development highlights the challenges for emerging market currencies in a global environment favouring the US currency.

Today, Two Corruption Suspects in Chromebook Case Face Verdict Hearing at Central Jakarta District Court

The Central Jakarta District Court is set to deliver its verdict today in the corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook-based laptops by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. The two defendants, Mulyatsyah and Sri Wahyuningsih, former directors serving as budget users, face six-year prison sentences and fines of Rp500 million each from prosecutors, with allegations of receiving substantial bribes. This case underscores ongoing efforts to combat corruption in public procurement, potentially highlighting systemic issues in government spending on educational technology.

BRI Credit Grows 13.7% in Q1-2026

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) reported robust performance in the first quarter of 2026, with total assets reaching Rp2,250 trillion, up 7.2% year-on-year, amid challenging economic dynamics. Credit disbursements accelerated to Rp1,562 trillion, a 13.7% increase, driven by strong support for the UMKM segment at Rp1,211 trillion. Asset quality improved, with the loan at risk ratio declining to 9.7% and cost of credit falling to 3.2%, underscoring BRI's prudent transformation strategy.

DPR Members Highlight Green SM's "Green Taxi" Involvement in Bekasi Timur Train Tragedy

Indonesian lawmakers from the DPR have called for a comprehensive audit and investigation into the operations of Green SM's electric taxis, dubbed "Taksi Hijau," following their alleged involvement in a fatal train accident at Bekasi Timur Station on 27 April 2026. They emphasise the need for transparency, accountability, and potential suspension or revocation of operating permits if serious safety violations are uncovered, particularly regarding vehicle security, driver standards, and fleet worthiness. While supporting eco-friendly transport innovations, the parliamentarians stress that public safety must not be compromised, urging the Ministry of Transportation to act decisively.

Civil Servants Required to Report Assets and Wealth, Today is the Final Day!

The Ministry of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform (PANRB) has urged all civil servants to submit their 2025 State Apparatus Wealth Report (LHKAN) by the deadline of 30 April 2026, emphasising its role in promoting transparency and accountability in government. Specific state officials must use the State Organiser Wealth Report (LHKPN), while others are required to attach electronic proof of annual tax notification submission. This compliance effort, monitored by internal government watchdogs and reported via the official portal, aims to bolster bureaucratic reform, enhance public trust, and foster a culture of integrity within Indonesia's public sector.

Boosting the economy, BRIN Head pushes for strengthening research and innovation ecosystem

The Head of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Arif Satria, has emphasised that bolstering the research and innovation ecosystem is crucial for driving Indonesia's national economic growth and enhancing competitiveness amid global changes. He highlighted Indonesia's decline to 55th place in the 2025 Global Innovation Index as a call to accelerate policy, funding, and cross-sector collaboration efforts. BRIN is focusing on comprehensive strengthening from basic research to commercialisation, while also promoting social research to ensure societal readiness and prevent technological disparities.

Prabowo Says MBG Programme Has Positive Impact on Farmers and Fishermen

President Prabowo Subianto has highlighted the positive effects of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, stating that it provides market certainty for farmers and fishermen, preventing spoilage and price undercutting by middlemen. He noted that the initiative creates significant employment opportunities, with each kitchen generating 50 jobs and plans for 30,000 kitchens potentially employing 1.5 million people, while already benefiting over 60 million recipients and attracting international interest. Prabowo reaffirmed the government's commitment to refining the programme to ensure its benefits reach the people, boosting the economy and national prosperity.

TNI Denies KKB Hoax Claim of Attack on Dekai Koramil Resulting in Soldier's Death

The Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) has dismissed claims by the Armed Criminal Group (KKB) of an attack on the Dekai Koramil in Yahukimo Regency, Papua Pegunungan, which allegedly killed a soldier, labelling it as a hoax intended to incite unrest. Instead, reports indicate that KKB fired upon civilians on 27 and 28 April 2026, injuring three people, while the situation in Dekai remains stable and conducive as of 29 April. Local police have urged the public not to believe such misinformation, highlighting ongoing efforts to counter destabilising narratives in the region.

The Future of Global Geoenergy After OPEC's Split

The United Arab Emirates' decision to exit OPEC effective 1 May 2026, after nearly six decades of membership, stems primarily from longstanding political rivalries with Saudi Arabia, despite shared frustrations over regional passivity towards Iran's military actions amid the US-Iran conflict. This departure, from the third-largest oil exporter in the region with a production capacity of 4.8 million barrels per day, is poised to reshape the geoenergy landscape both regionally and globally, exacerbated by divergences in support for conflicts in Yemen and Sudan. The move underscores deepening fractures within OPEC and highlights the shifting dynamics of power and resource control in the Middle East.

Breaking News! IHSG Falls 1%

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) dropped sharply by 1% at the opening of trading on Thursday, 30 April 2026, reaching 7,029.95 amid selling pressure, influenced by key international economic indicators. Market participants are closely monitoring the US Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates at 3.50-3.75% despite internal divisions, alongside data on China's manufacturing PMI, US PCE inflation, and unemployment claims. Additionally, discussions between President Trump and oil executives address mitigating the impacts of a potential prolonged blockade of Iranian ports, which could affect global oil markets and, by extension, Indonesian financial sentiment.

BKN Grants Posthumous Promotion and Pension Rights to Nurlaela, ASN Victim of Bekasi Train Accident

The National Civil Service Agency (BKN) has awarded a posthumous promotion and full pension rights to Nurlaela, a civil servant teacher who perished in a train accident at Bekasi Timur Station. Head of BKN, Zudan Arif Fakrulloh, expressed condolences and reaffirmed the government's commitment to honouring fallen public servants through benefits including widow's pension, death gratuity, funeral expenses, and scholarships for heirs. This initiative underscores BKN's role in providing security and recognition to ASN and their families during times of grief.

Plummeting Further! Antam Precious Metal Gold Price Drops Rp 15,000 Today

The price of Antam precious metal gold has continued to decline, falling by Rp 15,000 to Rp 2,769,000 per gram on Thursday, following a Rp 30,000 drop the previous day. The buyback price also weakened by Rp 24,000 to Rp 2,549,000 per gram, mirroring the global gold price trend which closed down 1.14% on Wednesday but showed a slight recovery of 0.22% early today. This ongoing slump, marking three consecutive days of losses totalling 3.55% globally, underscores the volatility in precious metals markets affecting Indonesian investors.

BYD Launches FCB Ti7 Flash Charging Edition with 755 km Range

Chinese automaker BYD has unveiled the Fang Cheng Bao Ti7 crossover, marketed globally as the BYD Ti7, featuring second-generation Blade battery technology and flash charging capabilities that enable a charge from 10% to 70% in just five minutes. The vehicle offers an impressive range of up to 755 km and advanced features including a 15.6-inch central control screen and intelligent driving assistance. Priced starting from 199,800 yuan (approximately Rp506 million), this launch underscores BYD's push into the electric vehicle market with innovative fast-charging solutions.

State Responsible for Ensuring Safe Daycare Services

Recent cases of child violence in daycare centres have highlighted the Indonesian government's inadequate oversight, despite its responsibility to ensure these services are safe for children. Ai Rahmayanti from the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) criticises the rapid expansion of daycares outpacing regulatory frameworks, calling for layered supervision including pre-operation verification, routine inspections, and a national integrated system to prevent fragmentation and enforce child protection standards. She urges the establishment of clear definitions, coordinated authorities, national licensing, and a public database to safeguard children's rights and quality of care.

Check Fuel Prices Today, 30 April 2026, at Pertamina Petrol Stations Across Indonesia

PT Pertamina has updated the prices of non-subsidised fuels effective from 18 April 2026, applicable nationwide, with adjustments based on global oil price trends like Argus or Mean of Platts Singapore (MOPS) and the rupiah's exchange rate against the US dollar. Prices for Pertamax are listed at Rp 12,600 in regions including Aceh, North Sumatra, Jambi, Bengkulu, South Sumatra, Bangka Belitung, and Lampung, though variations may occur due to local PBBKB taxes set by regional governments. This information is crucial for non-subsidised fuel users seeking the latest rates at Pertamina stations on 30 April 2026.

China to Implement Zero Trade Tariffs for 53 African Countries

China has announced a zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries with diplomatic relations, effective from 1 May 2026 to 30 April 2028, expanding from an initial 33 least developed countries as outlined by President Xi Jinping. This unilateral initiative aims to boost trade, investment, and industrial cooperation between China and Africa, countering global protectionism by facilitating access for African products to Chinese markets and enhancing mutual economic benefits. The policy, applicable to in-quota products, underscores China's commitment to international obligations and fostering a shared future community with Africa, supported by substantial financial pledges of up to 360 billion RMB through loans, aid, and investments.

Facts on the Raid of Online Gambling Operators Terrorising Hundreds of Indonesians Daily

Bali Police's Cyber Crime Directorate arrested four online gambling operators who were harassing hundreds of Indonesian citizens daily via phone calls to recruit them into illegal betting apps. The suspects, including siblings from Manado and a man from Jakarta, operated from a house in Benoa, Bali, under the direction of international leaders based in Cambodia and Kalimantan, with two having evaded previous raids in the Philippines and Cambodia. This operation highlights the transnational nature of online gambling networks in Indonesia, prompting further investigations to dismantle the broader syndicate.

Indonesian Police Uncover Drug Trafficking in Dumai, Seize 18 kg of Meth and 30,000 Ecstasy Pills

Indonesian National Police's Directorate of Narcotics Crimes has dismantled an international drug trafficking network operating between Malaysia and Indonesia in Dumai, Riau, seizing over 18 kilograms of methamphetamine, 30,000 ecstasy pills, and hundreds of etomidate vials. Three suspects, acting as couriers and field controllers, were arrested following a tip-off from the public, with the initial capture leading to the discovery of the main cache in an abandoned vehicle. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat cross-border narcotics smuggling and underscores the persistent threat of international drug syndicates in the region.

Frederica Widyasari Dewi: Indonesian Women as Key Pillars of the Nation's Economy

OJK Chair Frederica Widyasari Dewi highlighted the pivotal role of Indonesian women in driving national economic growth, particularly through their dominance in the MSME sector where they constitute 64.5% of entrepreneurs, during the CNBC Indonesia Top Women Fest 2026. She shared insights from a UN forum on empowering the 'missing middle' businesses and stressed the importance of digital financial inclusion for women, while cautioning against risks like scams due to low literacy. Despite global economic challenges, Dewi remains optimistic about Indonesia's robust fiscal fundamentals and stable financial sector performance.

Bank Danamon's Net Profit Rises 35 Percent to Rp 1.1 Trillion in Q1 2026

PT Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk reported a 35 percent year-on-year increase in net profit to Rp 1.1 trillion for the first quarter of 2026, driven by robust credit expansion, stable fund mobilisation, and improved asset quality. The bank's operational profit reached Rp 1.6 trillion, supported by a 12 percent rise in pre-provision operating profit and a 13 percent improvement in cost of credit, while total loans and trade finance grew 9 percent to Rp 216.2 trillion across all business segments. This strong performance, bolstered by digital transaction growth and synergies in ecosystems like automotive financing, positions Danamon to sustain momentum and contribute to Indonesia's economic growth.

Ministry of Trade Issues New Regulation on Agricultural Import Restrictions, Check the List of Commodities

The Indonesian Ministry of Trade has issued Minister of Trade Regulation No. 11 of 2026, effective from 8 May 2026, which imposes restrictions on the import of several agricultural commodities including feed wheat, soybean meal, mung beans, peanuts, feed rice, and pears to support national food self-sufficiency. This policy requires importers to obtain import approval from the Ministry based on technical recommendations from the Ministry of Agriculture, aiming to balance domestic supply and demand, protect local producers' prices, and reduce import dependency. Officials highlighted that the measures will encourage local farming, stabilise prices, and enhance food security by addressing issues like declining farmer interest due to unrestricted imports.

Xiaomi Develops MiMo-V2.5 AI Model, a New Competitor to Claude Opus and Gemini

Xiaomi has launched its latest AI model, MiMo-V2.5, available in regular and Pro versions, both as open-weight models trained on 48 trillion tokens and designed for multimodal processing of text, images, and videos. The model boasts 310 billion parameters for the regular version and 1.02 trillion for the Pro, claiming superiority in agentic AI and multimodal understanding, with benchmark scores rivaling or surpassing competitors like Claude Opus and Gemini. While downloadable via platforms like Hugging Face, running it locally requires high-end hardware due to substantial computational demands, positioning Xiaomi as a stronger contender in the global AI race.

Purbaya Issues New OJK Budget Regulations, Independence Remains Intact!

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has issued a new regulation, PMK Number 27 of 2026, outlining the administrative management of the Financial Services Authority (OJK)'s budget within the state financial framework, effective from 24 April 2026. This measure emphasises a clear separation between policy independence and administrative accountability, ensuring alignment with the national budget cycle without altering OJK's policy-making authority. According to Herman Saheruddin, Acting Director General of Financial Sector Stability and Development, the enhanced governance strengthens institutional credibility, public trust, and financial sector stability in line with international best practices.