Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 30 April 2026

Showing 401-450 of 1,509 articles

Claim on JHT Balance Subject to 5% Tax, Here Are the Provisions

BPJS Ketenagakerjaan has clarified that withdrawals of Jaminan Hari Tua (JHT) balances exceeding Rp 50 million are subject to a final 5% tax on the excess amount, as per Government Regulation No. 68 of 2009. For instance, a full claim of Rp 60 million would incur a Rp 500,000 tax, resulting in a net payout of Rp 59.5 million, provided no prior partial withdrawals have been made. Balances below Rp 50 million are entirely tax-exempt, while prior partial claims may trigger progressive tax rates.

Indonesia Builds New Fuel Storage Tanks in Biak-Maumere, Here's Why

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga is constructing new fuel storage tanks in Biak (Papua), Maumere (NTT), and Palaran (East Kalimantan) to enhance energy supply stability and position these areas as regional energy hubs, with a total additional capacity of 153,000 kilolitres. These projects, set to come online between 2027 and 2028, will boost national fuel storage by 3.1% and support broader economic goals like downstream industrialisation to reduce import dependency and create jobs. The initiative underscores Indonesia's commitment to equitable development, particularly in the eastern regions, by improving distribution reliability and mitigating regional price disparities.

Astra International's Net Profit Falls 16 Percent

PT Astra International Tbk reported a 16 percent year-on-year decline in net profit to Rp 5.85 trillion for the first quarter of 2026, primarily due to lower contributions from its heavy equipment, mining, construction, and energy division, though other segments showed improved performance. Net revenue decreased by 6 percent to Rp 78.67 trillion, supported by growth in financial services despite declines in goods sales and services rental lines. The company anticipates ongoing market challenges amid geopolitical tensions, particularly the US-Iran conflict, while total assets grew 2.06 percent to Rp 517.80 trillion.

10 Malaysian Citizens Kidnapped by Israel, PM Anwar Condemns Hijacking of Global Sumud Flotilla Ship

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has strongly condemned Israel's violent interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla humanitarian mission to Gaza in international waters, describing it as piracy and a violation of maritime law. The incident involved the seizure of 22 ships, with six carrying 10 Malaysian nationals among the detained activists, whose safety he urgently demands be ensured. Anwar emphasised Malaysia's commitment to compassion and humanity, vowing to work with allies for the activists' release amid the escalating crisis.

1,620 Flood Survivor Households in North Aceh Receive Transitional Housing Funds

In North Aceh, 1,620 households affected by flash floods and landslides across 14 sub-districts have received transitional housing funds (DTH) while awaiting permanent housing construction. North Aceh Regent Ismail A Jalil symbolically handed over the funds, with disbursements processed directly into beneficiaries' accounts via Bank Syariah Indonesia. The government offered survivors two options post-disaster: temporary housing or rental assistance of Rp600,000 per month, highlighting efforts to support recovery in disaster-prone areas.

Accidents at Level Crossings Remain High, Ethics and Compliance Key

Accidents at railway level crossings in Indonesia continue to be alarmingly high, with 40 incidents recorded in early 2026, resulting in 25 deaths and multiple injuries, primarily due to non-compliance by road users and inadequate infrastructure. Transportation expert Djoko Setijowarno emphasises that ethical behaviour and adherence to prioritising train passages are crucial, as crossing gates serve only as aids, not primary safeguards. The data reveals most accidents occur at unguarded crossings from drivers forcing through, while heavy vehicles exacerbate rail damage through dynamic loading, highlighting the need for better facilities and user discipline to enhance safety.

Bandung City Government Accelerates Installation of Street Lighting on 17 Priority Roads

The Bandung City Transportation Department is expediting the installation of public street lighting (PJU) on 17 priority roads to ensure more even illumination and enhance public safety and comfort. Head of the department, Rasdian Setiadi, stated that the work is being carried out in stages according to the government's timeline, focusing on beautification routes where lighting is incomplete or only on one side. Points for installation have been mapped out and will be realised in subsequent phases as planned.

McDonald's Indonesia Projects Rp7.1 Trillion Contribution to GDP by 2026

McDonald's Indonesia, managed by PT Rekso Nasional Food, has announced a projected economic contribution of Rp7.1 trillion to the national GDP by 2026, marking the 35th anniversary of its operations in the country. An Oxford Economics analysis highlights significant multiplier effects, including support for 330 additional jobs per 100 direct hires and Rp4.9 million in secondary economic activity per Rp1 million generated, impacting sectors like agriculture, distribution, and logistics. The company has expanded to over 300 outlets, increased local sourcing such as tilapia from Lake Toba, and donated over Rp2.2 billion to social causes, with plans for World Cup 2026-themed initiatives.

Police prepare parking areas for May Day participants at Monas

Jakarta police have arranged multiple parking zones across the city for the anticipated 200,000 participants in the International Labour Day (May Day) celebrations centred at Monas, including dedicated areas for vehicles from various regions such as JIExpo Kemayoran for those from West Java and Bekasi, Aldiron Pancoran for Central and East Java, and GBK vicinity for Banten and surrounding areas. Approximately 20,000 motorbike users will utilise parking at government buildings near Monas, coordinated with 65 ministries and agencies via a State Secretariat circular. With 1,793 personnel deployed to manage traffic and security, the arrangements aim to accommodate 4,000 buses and address potential crowds from non-labour groups, including fans of five prominent bands performing at the event, ensuring smooth proceedings for this significant workers' commemoration.

Government to Establish Task Force for Daycare Improvements

The Indonesian government is preparing to form a task force to enhance the governance of daycare centres, addressing short-, medium-, and long-term improvements in standards, licensing, and oversight. Coordinating Minister Pratikno emphasised the importance of integrating regulations through a single data portal and providing central government support to private operators to ensure quality childcare while preventing child abuse. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to protecting children's rights and maintaining high standards in essential community services.

Response to Yusril's Proposal: Golkar Suggests 5 Percent Parliamentary Threshold

Golkar Party Secretary General Muhammad Sarmuji has proposed a 5 percent parliamentary threshold as an ideal figure in response to Coordinating Minister Yusril Ihza Mahendra's suggestion to align it with the number of DPR commissions. Sarmuji argues that this moderate level, slightly above the previous election's threshold, would allow parties with fewer seats to function more efficiently while maintaining opportunities for all parties. He further recommends setting the faction formation threshold at twice the number of DPR working bodies to enhance the effectiveness of Indonesia's presidential system.

Bathara Kresna Train Schedule Adjusted on 3 May 2026 Due to Mangkunegaran Run

The Wonogiri Transportation Agency has announced a one-day adjustment to the operational schedule of the Bathara Kresna train on 3 May 2026 to facilitate the smooth running of the Mangkunegaran Run event, part of the 269th Adeging Mangkunegaran celebration. Passengers are urged to double-check their travel plans to avoid delays or miscommunications. This change highlights the coordination between local authorities and public transport providers to support cultural events.

ASEAN-EU Sustainable Summit to Address Economic Resilience and Growth

The inaugural ASEAN-EU Sustainable Summit, set for 7 May 2026 in Cebu, Philippines, will convene over 200 representatives from governments, businesses, and civil society to tackle energy, economic, and supply chain challenges through enhanced ASEAN-EU partnerships. Key discussions will cover energy transition, green finance, circular economy, sustainable trade, supply chains, and climate-resilient agriculture, featuring high-level officials including Indonesia's Deputy Minister Leonardo A. A. Teguh Sambodo and executives from global firms like Coca-Cola and Philip Morris International. The event aims to translate sustainability priorities into practical, scalable solutions, bolstering regional resilience and food security amid global crises.

Hikvision Releases 2025 ESG Report, Promoting Sustainable Development through "Tech for Good"

Hikvision has published its 2025 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report, demonstrating its commitment to transparency in performance over the past eight years and aligning with its "THRIVE" philosophy by prioritising technological innovation, product quality, and cybersecurity. The report highlights the company's "Tech for Good" initiatives, including AIoT solutions for urban governance and nature conservation, comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks that achieved a 100% vulnerability remediation rate, and climate action efforts through low-carbon products and green operations. Recognising awards such as the Silver Medal from EcoVadis and ISO certifications, Hikvision aims to enhance long-term value creation for stakeholders in building a more resilient and sustainable world.

List of Countries with the Largest Debts to the IMF

Amid global economic pressures, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) continues to serve as a critical lender of last resort for numerous nations grappling with financial instability. The latest data as of 24 April 2026 reveals Argentina topping the list with over US$60 billion in outstanding debt, nearly four times that of the next highest debtor, Ukraine at US$15.48 billion, followed by Egypt at US$10.67 billion. This heavy reliance on IMF financing underscores the persistent economic vulnerabilities in developing countries, including Pakistan, Ecuador, and several African nations, highlighting the need for structural reforms to mitigate long-term debt dependencies.

Bank Mandiri Allocates Rp1.17 Trillion for Share Buyback to Maintain Investor Confidence

Bank Mandiri, Indonesia's leading state-owned lender, has secured approval to repurchase shares worth up to Rp1.17 trillion over the next 12 months, aiming to bolster investor trust amid its robust financial performance. The bank reported a consolidated net profit of Rp56.3 trillion for 2025, supported by 13.4% credit growth to Rp1,895 trillion and 23.9% third-party funds expansion to Rp2,106 trillion, with Q1 2026 profits rising 16.6% to Rp15.4 trillion. This initiative, alongside a record Rp44.47 trillion dividend payout representing 79% of 2025 earnings, underscores the bank's commitment to delivering optimal value to shareholders and the state while sustaining growth.

Implementing XStar 100%, BPH Migas Confident Subsidised Fuel Distribution in Tasikmalaya Will Be More Targeted

The Badan Pengatur Hilir Minyak dan Gas Bumi (BPH Migas) has announced that Tasikmalaya Regency and City in West Java are fully prepared to implement the issuance of subsidised fuel purchase recommendation letters via the XStar application. This digital shift from manual processes aims to ensure more accurate, efficient, and targeted distribution of subsidised and compensated fuels to eligible users such as farmers, fishermen, and SMEs. The move aligns with BPH Migas Regulation No. 2 of 2023, as amended, marking a significant step in enhancing public service delivery in fuel subsidies.

Nutri Level Label: Nutrition Education That Needs Close Attention

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has introduced a new Nutri Level labelling policy for all food and beverage sales, aiming to boost public awareness of consumption risks linked to lifestyle diseases. Drawing on 2023 Indonesian Health Survey data, the article highlights alarming consumption patterns among children and the population's preference for tasty, accessible unhealthy foods, underscoring the need for effective nutrition education to prevent the labels from becoming mere formalities like cigarette warnings. It stresses implementing education without coercion, based on evidence from nutrition, medical, and epidemiological sciences, amid challenges from aggressive marketing and social media influences.

Danantara CEO: 13 Downstream Projects Worth Rp116 Trillion as Initial Step in Economic Transformation

CEO of the Daya Anagata Nusantara Investment Management Agency and Minister of Investment and Downstreaming, Rosan Roeslani, has described the groundbreaking of 13 national downstreaming projects in phase II, valued at Rp116 trillion, as the initial step towards accelerating value-added economic transformation domestically. President Prabowo Subianto presided over the ceremony in Cilacap, Central Java, emphasising downstreaming as the cornerstone for enhancing national economic welfare through strengthened industrialisation and resource-based self-reliance. The projects span sectors including energy with gasoline refineries in Dumai and Cilacap, nickel-based stainless steel in Morowali, copper and gold downstreaming in Gresik, and agroindustry such as palm oil processing in Sei Mangkei, expected to bolster the national industrial ecosystem, boost production capacity, create jobs, and reduce reliance on raw material exports.

AISMOLI: Electric Motorcycles Can Serve as Instruments to Reduce Fuel Consumption

The Indonesian Electric Motorcycle Industry Association (AISMOLI) has highlighted that electric motorcycles could significantly reduce national fuel oil consumption, given Indonesia's vast population of over 130 million two-wheeled vehicles growing by six million units annually. This shift aligns with the presidential vision of energy independence and efficiency, particularly as rising fossil fuel prices create momentum for greener alternatives. However, AISMOLI stresses that effective policy commitments are essential to accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles, as evidenced by the increasing issuance of vehicle type approval certificates in early 2026 compared to the previous year.

Amnesty Rejects Plan to Establish Human Rights Activists Advisory Team

Amnesty International Indonesia has urged the government to cancel its plan to form an advisory team for determining the status of human rights activists, describing it as a dangerous regression that undermines fundamental human rights principles. Deputy Director Wirya Adiwena argues that the state lacks moral or legal legitimacy to validate activists, warning that such a mechanism echoes repressive practices from the New Order era and could enable administrative repression. Instead, the Ministry of Human Rights should focus on halting state violations, ensuring accountability, and protecting civil space for all citizens.

Minister of PPPA: Data from Mayor, 33 Daycares in Yogyakarta City Unlicensed

The Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA), Arifah, revealed that out of 70 daycares in Yogyakarta, 37 are licensed while 33 operate without permits, highlighting a significant regulatory gap that demands national attention. The government is focusing on standardising daycare services through the TARA scheme, which includes requirements like legality, qualified staff, facilities, and parental-accessible CCTV, with ongoing support for 70 daycares nationwide and five in Yogyakarta. Following recent incidents, a complaint post has assisted 217 residents, including 130 seeking psychological support and 70 for child development aid, prompting calls for integrated regulations across ministries to streamline licensing, mentoring, and oversight.

Gaspol Today: Are There Prabowo's Ministers Untouched by the Reshuffle?

Political analyst Adi Prayitno from UIN Syarif Hidayatullah suggests that party leaders serving as ministers in President Prabowo's Merah Putih Cabinet are likely to remain untouched by reshuffles to preserve political stability and maintain party support quotas. He notes that the fifth reshuffle introduced minimal changes, with only one new appointee and mostly familiar faces, indicating a gradual approach to cabinet adjustments. This strategy aims to avoid disrupting alliances amid the ongoing government transitions.

Foreign Ministry: UAE's Exit from OPEC Will Not Affect Relations with Indonesia

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has stated that the United Arab Emirates' decision to withdraw from OPEC will not impact the bilateral relations or strategic cooperation between Indonesia and the UAE. The ministry views this as part of evolving global energy governance dynamics and hopes it supports market stability and energy supply security. Indonesia will continue to monitor the situation's implications for its economy and national energy resilience.

Octo Mobile Error, Bank CIMB Niaga: We Are Addressing It

Bank CIMB Niaga has acknowledged a disruption in its Octo Mobile banking app that began around midday on Thursday, causing inconvenience to customers unable to log in or conduct transactions. The bank's Corporate Communications Head stated that they are working comprehensively to restore the service as quickly as possible, advising users to utilise the OCTO website or nearby ATMs in the interim. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in digital banking reliability, especially during peak usage periods like month-end.

Foreign Ministry: ASEAN Summit 2026 to Focus on Responding to Global Conflict Impacts

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has outlined that the 2026 ASEAN Summit, hosted by the Philippines, will primarily address the repercussions of global conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, on the region, with key discussions on energy resilience, food security, and economic stability. The summit aims to produce around 24 outcome documents, emphasising those related to regional stability and development economics, and will feature input from the Asian Development Bank president on the global economy. Non-political representatives from Myanmar will attend, aligning with established ASEAN procedures, underscoring the organisation's commitment to inclusive regional cooperation amid international challenges.

Arab Countries Queue Up for Indonesia, Trade Minister Reveals the Reasons

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has revealed that the successful Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sparked interest from other Middle Eastern countries in forging similar trade deals with Indonesia, positioning the UAE as a gateway to the region. Despite challenges from geopolitical conflicts impacting exports, Indonesia maintained a trade surplus of US$641 million with the Middle East in January-February, with 40% of its exports to the area directed to the UAE. The government is expanding its trade agreements, having completed negotiations on five deals including with the EU, Canada, Eurasia, and Peru, to bolster export opportunities amid global uncertainties.

Pratikno Reiterates Prabowo's Directive to Investigate Child Abuse Case at Daycare

Pratikno, a senior official, has emphasised President Prabowo's instructions to swiftly address societal issues following a distressing child abuse incident at a daycare in Yogyakarta, leading to the facility's closure and ongoing police investigations. The government is coordinating across ministries to enhance daycare oversight, including routine local checks and improvements in standardisation, licensing, and integrated information systems. A task force will be established to reform daycare management, alongside a national integrated data portal to ensure better regulation and monitoring.

Gibran Inspects Bagong Dam Construction, a Rp 402.31 Billion Project by PTPP

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited the Bagong Dam construction site in Trenggalek, East Java, to review progress on the Rp 402.31 billion project undertaken by state-owned constructor PTPP, which has reached 59.49% completion ahead of schedule. The dam, with a capacity of 17.4 million cubic metres, will irrigate 977 hectares of farmland, provide raw water supply, and mitigate flooding in southern East Java, underscoring the government's commitment to enhancing water and food security. Gibran praised the team's efforts and urged acceleration to ensure timely benefits for local farmers and residents.

Government to recruit over 20,000 crew members for 1,582 fishing vessels

Indonesia's Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries plans to recruit approximately 20,000 skilled crew members to operate 1,582 modern fishing vessels by 2028, as part of a broader initiative to modernise the capture fisheries sector and integrate it with eco-friendly practices. The recruitment, targeting graduates from maritime schools and fisheries polytechnics, will commence in May 2026 and support over 500,000 workers in the ecosystem, with vessels managed through cooperatives and state-owned enterprises. This effort is bolstered by UK support under a bilateral maritime cooperation agreement announced during President Prabowo Subianto's visit to London, enhancing Indonesia's offshore fishing capabilities and economic sustainability.

Minister of Culture and ASUCH Chairman Discuss Search for Portuguese Shipwreck in Malacca Strait

Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, discussed with ASUCH Chairman Nikolaus Graf Sandizell the search for the historic Flor de la Mar shipwreck in the Malacca Strait using remote sensing technology and underwater mapping. The collaboration involves multiple ministries and agencies to locate the vessel, which could lead to the creation of a world-class maritime museum, boosting cultural economy and education. This effort underscores Indonesia's commitment to preserving underwater cultural heritage and asserting national sovereignty through historical recovery.

Guards Deny Involvement of Community Organisations at Ampera Bekasi Level Crossing, Claim Purely Local Volunteers

Guards at the Ampera level crossing in Bekasi have refuted claims of involvement by community organisations or thugs, insisting that the site is managed solely by local volunteers on a self-funded basis. They acknowledge the need for improved safety and express willingness to comply with future government or PT KAI plans, such as constructing a flyover, while highlighting challenges from unregulated road users and the recent installation of iron barriers. This situation underscores ongoing infrastructure issues at unmanned railway crossings in urban areas, balancing community initiatives with official oversight.

Rupiah Weakens Sharply: What Are the Causes and Impacts on the Economy?

The Indonesian rupiah has weakened significantly against the US dollar, reaching Rp 17,346 per dollar and potentially fluctuating to Rp 17,350–17,400 next week, amid low foreign exchange reserves of $148.2 billion as of March 2026. Experts attribute this to a combination of monetary and fiscal pressures, including declining global investor confidence, outflows from stocks, government bonds, and Bank Indonesia securities, as well as rising credit default swaps indicating higher risk perceptions. The situation underscores the need for coordinated positive signals from Bank Indonesia, the Finance Ministry, and financial authorities to stabilise the currency and mitigate broader economic impacts from geopolitical tensions like the Israel-US vs Iran conflict.

Scammers in Bali Become More Agile, Adopting Digital Nomad Patterns

Scammers in Bali are increasingly mobile, relocating frequently like digital nomads to evade law enforcement, as revealed by the Bali Police's Cyber Crime Directorate. The police have received fluctuating reports of online fraud targeting locals and are investigating, noting that Bali's status as a bustling tourist destination helps perpetrators blend in. In response, authorities are coordinating with national police units to address organised cyber crimes, including a recent case of alleged foreign nationals held captive for scam operations in Kuta.

YLBHI: Government Has No Right to Determine the Status of Human Rights Activists!

The General Chairman of YLBHI, Muhamad Isnur, has criticised the Indonesian government's authority to validate the status of human rights activists, asserting that such decisions should be made by independent bodies like Komnas HAM. He warns that government intervention could violate human rights and hinder activists' work, urging adherence to international standards focused on assessing risks and protection needs rather than legitimacy. Isnur emphasises that actions, not formal titles or payment, define a human rights defender, potentially safeguarding civil society from state overreach.

Anti-Corruption Award Lightens Sentence for Mulyatsyah, Defendant in Chromebook Case

A former official from Indonesia's Ministry of Education under Nadiem Makarim, Mulyatsyah, has been sentenced to 4.5 years in prison for corruption in a Chromebook procurement case, lighter than the prosecutors' demand due to his prior anti-corruption award and clean service record. The court found him guilty on the subsidiary charge of joint corruption, causing significant state losses and impacting education quality, while ordering him to pay Rp 2.28 billion in restitution after accounting for seized funds. This verdict underscores the judiciary's consideration of mitigating factors in anti-corruption efforts but highlights the severe consequences of graft in public sectors.

Toyota Veloz Hybrid Starts Appearing, What About the Fate of Used Veloz?

The introduction of the hybrid variant of the Toyota Veloz low MPV is beginning to raise concerns about the resale value of its conventional models in the used car market. According to Andi from Jordy Motor showroom, the impact remains limited so far due to uneven availability of the hybrid units, but a price drop and reduced interest in used Veloz are inevitable with the rise of more efficient hybrid technology. The full effects are expected once hybrid models become widely available and enter the used market themselves.

DJP Chief Explains Reasons for Tightening Tax Refund Regulations

The Indonesian government is overhauling tax refund policies to prevent excessive payouts and potential leaks, as explained by the Director General of Taxation, Bimo Wijayanto, who emphasised that the changes aim to address current economic conditions and curb moral hazards without denying taxpayers' rights. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa highlighted the massive Rp 361.5 trillion in refunds disbursed in 2025, a 35.9% increase from the previous year, prompting suspicions of irregularities and leading to a comprehensive audit involving the BPKP covering 2020-2025. This tightening of criteria for preliminary refunds seeks to ensure that only eligible taxpayers receive benefits, replacing outdated regulations like PMK 03/2021.

ABM Investama Distributes IDR 267 Billion Cash Dividend, Payable on 28 May 2026

PT ABM Investama Tbk has approved a cash dividend distribution of US$15.5 million (approximately IDR 267.05 billion) from its 2025 net profit, to be paid proportionally to shareholders on 28 May 2026, following the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on 29 April 2026. Despite a 14% year-on-year decline in consolidated revenue to US$1,038.2 million and a 21% drop in EBITDA to US$339.4 million, the company reported a net profit attributable to owners of US$70.6 million, with equity rising to US$880.4 million and cash reserves increasing 17.6% to US$200 million. Executives highlighted operational challenges from external factors like extreme weather but emphasised effective cash flow management to maintain stability.

Semarang City Government Prepares Relocation for Traders Following Kanjengan Market Fire

A major fire ravaged the Kanjengan Market in Semarang on the night of 29 April to the early hours of 30 April, destroying approximately 468 stalls and shophouses and causing estimated material losses of Rp 3.5 billion, though assets worth Rp 5 billion were salvaged. No fatalities were reported, and the blaze was extinguished after a five-hour effort by around 90 firefighters using multiple water sources. The Semarang City Government is prioritising the relocation of affected traders to temporary sites accommodating 100 to 150 vendors to swiftly restore local economic activity amid ongoing investigations into the fire's cause.

Tens of Millions of Chinese SMEs to Start Using Indonesia's QRIS

Bank Indonesia has officially launched the cross-border Quick Response Indonesia Standard (QRIS) with China, enabling seamless digital payments between the two nations' SMEs. The Indonesian Payment System Association praises the collaboration, highlighting the massive potential from Indonesia's 44-45 million SMEs and China's nearly 100 million, which could boost bilateral trade through easy currency-converted transactions via platforms like AliPay and UniPay. This marks China as the sixth country integrated with QRIS, following Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea, underscoring Indonesia's expanding role in global digital finance.

Achieves 9.1% Operating Margin and WIKA's Debt Declines 7.4% in Q1 2026

PT Wijaya Karya (WIKA) reported significant improvements in its Q1 2026 financial performance, including a 17.2% increase in new contracts to Rp2.53 trillion, boosting its backlog to Rp33.89 trillion amid a challenging construction market. The company achieved a 9.1% gross profit margin, up from 7.4% the previous year, with gross profit rising 3% to Rp238.36 billion and operational EBITDA increasing 10.3% to Rp104.9 billion, driven by transformation efforts and a 10.5% reduction in operating expenses. Debt was reduced by 7.4% to Rp2.97 trillion, reflecting WIKA's commitment to financial discipline and sustainable growth in infrastructure and related sectors.

KPK: Constitutional Court Ruling on Leadership Candidate Requirements is Appropriate

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has endorsed the Constitutional Court's (MK) ruling that candidates for anti-corruption leadership roles must first step down from their previous positions, describing it as fair, proportionate, and providing legal certainty. This decision resolves ambiguities in the law, safeguards the institution's independence, and minimises potential conflicts of interest, thereby strengthening KPK's governance and effectiveness in combating corruption. The ruling reinterprets specific articles of the KPK Law to require "inactivity" rather than resignation from prior roles or professions during tenure.

5 Most Popular International News Stories

The US aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford is set to depart the Middle East amid stalled peace talks with Iran, potentially signalling a de-escalation as it returns to its base in the US. President Trump has warned that the US naval blockade on Iranian ports could last months, causing oil prices to surge to four-year highs, while rejecting Iran's proposals to lift the blockade in exchange for reopening the Strait of Hormuz without a nuclear deal. Iran's President Pezeshkian dismissed the blockade as illegal and doomed to fail, exacerbating regional tensions, as Trump also considers reducing US troops in Germany amid disputes with its leadership over the Iran conflict.

Vice President Visits Juanda Airport, Ensures Smooth Departure for Hajj Pilgrims

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka visited Juanda International Airport in Sidoarjo, East Java, to confirm that the departure process for prospective Hajj pilgrims is proceeding smoothly, highlighting the effective operation of the Fast Track Makkah Route service that expedites immigration document checks. He praised the Saudi Arabian government's provision of this facility at several Indonesian airports for significantly easing the pilgrimage process, allowing pilgrims to complete immigration procedures domestically and avoid queues upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. Gibran wished the pilgrims a successful and healthy Hajj journey, emphasising the importance of maintaining health throughout their religious obligations.

Jakarta's RPIP Provincial Regulation Expected to Guide Industrial Development Direction

The Jakarta DPRD has enacted the Provincial Industrial Development Plan (RPIP) Regulation for 2026–2046, aiming to steer the capital's industrial growth towards higher productivity, value addition, and high-tech industries over the next two decades. Key strategies include enhancing raw material supplies, production efficiency, technology development, human resource quality, and cross-sector collaborations to boost exports and innovative products. Governor Pramono Anung emphasised shifting from conventional manufacturing to a modern industrial services hub integrated into global supply chains, underscoring Jakarta's evolution into an innovation-driven economy.

Bareskrim Investigates Syndicate in Illegal Hajj Case, Operating 127 Times Since 2024

Indonesia's National Police Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) is probing a syndicate that has facilitated 127 illegal Hajj pilgrimages since the start of 2024 by manipulating worker visas to deceive authorities and lure Indonesian citizens with promises of instant departures. Eight suspects have been examined in connection with the operation, which was uncovered through collaboration with immigration officials at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, revealing evidence of fraud in communications on suspects' devices. Authorities are pursuing the masterminds and companies involved, while urging the public to avoid scams offering quick Hajj slots, as official routes require years of waiting.

Roblox Finally Complies with Indonesian Rules, App Undergoes Total Overhaul

Roblox has committed to complying with Indonesia's age restriction regulations under PP Tunas, becoming the eighth platform to meet the requirements, as announced by Minister Meutya Hafid. The platform introduces age-based accounts—Roblox Kids for ages 5-12 without any chat features and Roblox Select for 13-15 with restricted stranger chats—along with mandatory facial verification to enforce age-appropriate content and parental controls. This move affects Indonesia's 23 million child accounts out of 45 million total users, ensuring safer online experiences for minors amid government efforts to protect young users.

Coordinating Minister Pratikno to Establish Task Force to Improve Daycare Governance

Following recent cases of child abuse in daycare centres, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno has convened a ministerial-level meeting to address service quality and governance issues in these facilities. The government aims to prevent recurrence through improvements in standardisation, licensing, programme integration, integrated information systems, field supervision, incentives, and disincentives, as directed by the President to swiftly respond to public concerns. Attendees included ministers from Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Health, Basic and Secondary Education, along with representatives from the Indonesian Child Protection Commission.

Task Force for Daycare Governance to be Formed Following Little Aresha Case

In response to the Little Aresha daycare abuse case, Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture Pratikno announced the formation of a task force to overhaul daycare governance, including standardisation, licensing, integrated information systems, and enhanced oversight. President Prabowo Subianto has directed the government to swiftly address societal issues and improve service quality, with ongoing coordination among ministries, local governments, and child protection agencies to prevent recurrence. The daycare has been sealed, legal action against perpetrators is proceeding, and trauma support is being provided to the victim and family, underscoring the government's commitment to child protection.