Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 April 2026

Showing 451-500 of 874 articles

Bank in Jakarta Shut Down as OJK Revokes Business Licence Over This Reason

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has revoked the business licence of PT Bank Perekonomian Rakyat Koperindo Jaya, a rural bank in Jakarta, effective 9 March 2026, leading to the closure of all its offices and cessation of operations. The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) will form a liquidation team to handle the settlement of the bank's rights and obligations, while its directors, board of commissioners, and shareholders are prohibited from taking legal actions regarding assets and liabilities without LPS approval. This revocation is part of a broader trend of declining closures in 2025, with only seven such cases compared to 20 the previous year, primarily due to fraud and poor management, as stated by OJK's Executive Head of Banking Supervision, Dian Ediana Rae.

Batam Immigration Chief Removed Over Alleged Extortion of Singaporean Nationals at Port

The head of Batam City's Immigration Office, Hajar Aswad, has been removed from his position and transferred to Jakarta for investigation into allegations of illegal levies imposed on Singaporean nationals at the Batam Centre International Port in Riau Islands. Four other officials and one staff member, including a deactivated officer with initials JS, have also been summoned to Jakarta as part of the ongoing probe by the Directorate of Internal Affairs. In the interim, the Riau Islands Ministry of Law and Human Rights Office head is directly overseeing operations to ensure continued public services and supervision.

KAI Records Service to 5.08 Million Customers During 2026 Lebaran Transport Period

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) served 5,087,458 passengers on long-distance and local trains during the 2026 Lebaran transport period from 11 March to 1 April, marking an 8.07% increase from the previous year. This achievement, with high occupancy rates and punctuality exceeding 98%, underscores KAI's enhanced operational capacity and coordination in facilitating mass mobility for Eid travel. The performance highlights the vital role of rail infrastructure in supporting national holidays and safety initiatives like the free motorcycle transport programme.

Piles of Rubbish in Angke Rusun, West Jakarta, Block Residents' Road Access for Weeks

In the Angke Rental Flats in Tambora, West Jakarta, massive rubbish piles between blocks C and D have blocked narrow alleyways, severely disrupting residents' mobility for nearly a month since Ramadan. Local residents and RT 10 RW 03 leader Ika report that the overflow has prevented rubbish trucks from accessing collection points, exacerbating the issue and forcing people to use alternative paths that are also partially obstructed. This situation highlights ongoing challenges in waste management within government-subsidised housing, impacting daily activities and local commerce.

Bali DPRD Warns Civil Servants Against Holidaying During Friday WFH

The Bali DPRD has cautioned civil servants against exploiting the new work-from-home policy on Fridays to go on holidays, stressing that they must remain at home and complete tasks online. Officials with positions are particularly urged not to travel with family or misuse official vehicles, while essential services like education, health, and public administration continue as usual. The provincial government is still processing the implementing circular, following the central government's directive to enhance digital-based governance.

Iranian Ambassador Urges Sunni-Shia Unity Against Zionist Israel

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, has called on Muslims across Sunni and Shia sects to unite against the wars waged by the Israel-US coalition, emphasising that divisions are a deliberate strategy by the Zionist regime to weaken Islam. He highlighted that Israeli attacks do not discriminate between sects, citing Quranic verses and historical examples of unity during conflict. This appeal underscores Iran's diplomatic efforts to foster Islamic solidarity amid escalating regional tensions.

Italy states that energy recovery post-conflict will take a long time

Bank of Italy Governor Fabio Panetta has warned that even if the conflict in the Middle East ends quickly, restoring global energy production will not happen instantly due to the time required to rebuild production capacity and reactivate the entire energy supply chain. He highlighted how the ongoing tensions have disrupted global energy supplies, halted hydrocarbon production in Persian Gulf countries, and increased risks to infrastructure, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. This crisis is accelerating pre-existing energy dynamics rather than creating a new phase, exacerbating fuel price hikes worldwide.

Government and SOEs Accelerate Construction of 324 Relocation Homes for Senen Residents

The Indonesian government, in collaboration with state-owned enterprises (SOEs), has begun constructing 324 relocation housing units for residents along the railway tracks in Senen's Central Jakarta area to improve living conditions and urban order. Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas Maruarar Sirait and Head of the SOE Management Agency Dony Oskaria inspected the site, highlighting the rapid progress involving companies like Hutama Karya, PP, and WIKA, with completion targeted for 15 June 2026. This initiative, supported by Jakarta's provincial government and aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's directives, extends to other areas like Tanah Abang and Kampung Bandan, demonstrating effective public-private coordination for social welfare.

MPR Deputy Chairman Condemns Israel's Law on Death Penalty for Palestinian Prisoners

Hidayat Nur Wahid, Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's MPR, has strongly condemned Israel's recently passed law imposing the death penalty on Palestinian prisoners, warning of its discriminatory potential and violation of international human rights. He urges the international community, including the UN Human Rights Office, to actively oppose and seek to repeal this legislation, highlighting contrasts with Palestinian treatment of Israeli captives. This stance aligns with Indonesia's constitutional mandate to support Palestinian self-determination and end Israeli occupation.

Rules for Bringing Alcoholic Beverages from Abroad: The Maximum Limit According to Customs

Indonesian Customs authorities have reiterated the regulations on importing alcoholic beverages and tobacco products, limiting adults to 1 litre of alcohol and 200 cigarettes per person to ensure personal consumption levels. These rules, governed by updated Ministry of Finance regulations, impose stricter limits on transport crew and mandate destruction of excess items without option for duties payment. The guidelines aim to promote compliance and prevent smuggling, with public awareness urged to avoid penalties upon arrival.

Beware! Micro Enterprises in Indonesia and Neighbours Have Weak Financial Literacy

The ADB Institute has revealed that financial literacy among owners of micro enterprises in ASEAN and Central Asia is significantly lower than that of larger companies, increasing their vulnerability to cash flow issues and economic shocks. Higher financial literacy is linked to greater adoption of digital finance tools, which enhance business sustainability and sales growth through faster payments and better financial tracking. To support small businesses, the report recommends targeted training programmes that build capabilities, trust, and simplified decision-making tools, integrating financial literacy with practical applications like micro-insurance and working capital management.

Hotels in Yogyakarta See Low Occupancy During 2026 Eid Holiday: What Are the Causes?

Hotels in the Special Region of Yogyakarta experienced significantly lower occupancy rates during the 2026 Eid holiday period, averaging 68% compared to 60-75% the previous year, according to data from the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI). Factors contributing to this decline include reduced consumer purchasing power, an abundance of cheaper alternative accommodations like homestays and villas, and improved inter-city accessibility that shortens visitor stays. Despite the hotel slump, tourist visits to Malioboro reached 137,722 over the holiday week, indicating a shift in preferences towards more affordable options amid economic pressures.

Pertamina Builds Resilient Villages

Pertamina's Desa Energi Berdikari (DEB) programme has empowered vulnerable villages in Indonesia, such as Desa Padang Sakti in Aceh, by installing solar power systems that boost aquaculture productivity by up to 40% and increase residents' incomes by Rp6-8 million monthly, while enabling recovery from disasters like the 2025 Sumatra-Aceh floods. The initiative, which has established 252 DEB sites nationwide generating significant economic value and reducing emissions by 1.09 million tonnes of CO2eq annually, earned Pertamina the international SEAL Awards 2026 for environmental initiatives alongside global firms. This aligns with national energy plans and Indonesia's Net Zero Emission 2060 target, promoting rural energy independence, food security, and sustainable development through ESG principles.

Friday Prayers and Good Friday Coincide, Istiqlal-Cathedral Atmosphere Calm and Conducive

The observance of Friday prayers at Istiqlal Mosque coincided with Good Friday celebrations at Jakarta Cathedral, with both religious events proceeding peacefully and without friction. Local residents from diverse faiths praised the mutual respect and tolerance displayed, highlighting Jakarta's culture of interfaith harmony. This simultaneous worship underscores Indonesia's commitment to religious coexistence amid its multicultural society.

Instructions for Civil Servants to Run to the Office and the Illusion of Energy Efficiency

Amid global oil price spikes triggered by geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz in April 2026, the Governor of Central Java has instructed civil servants (ASN) to cycle or run to work as a response to the domestic energy crisis. This column critiques the policy as superficial theatrics that risk eroding motivation and productivity, arguing instead for a systemic shift towards green talent management and digital solutions to reduce physical mobility and enhance true bureaucratic efficiency. Variations in regional responses highlight the pitfalls of a one-size-fits-all approach in diverse geographical contexts.

Patience Runs Out: Angke Flats Residents Challenge Pramono to Experience the Rubbish Stench There

Residents of the Angke rental flats in West Jakarta have challenged Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung to visit and witness the dire living conditions caused by nearly a month-long accumulation of rubbish, which has led to infestations of flies, maggots, and rats, blocking pathways and posing health risks. Frustrated with unfulfilled government promises to promote affordable housing solutions amid land scarcity, locals like Royyan and RT leaders Ika and Suherman highlight the neglect of lower-class communities and inconsistent waste collection services. This incident underscores broader issues in urban housing management and public service delivery in Indonesia's capital.

Video: Iran-US War, Rupiah and APBN Resilience in Focus for Markets

The escalating Iran-US conflict has driven up global oil prices, raising concerns over potential fuel price hikes, inflation surges, and pressure on the Indonesian Rupiah. Economist Maesaroh from CNBC Indonesia highlights the strengthening US Dollar Index to 100, reflecting investor fears that have led to a collective slump in Asian currencies, including the Rupiah. This situation also threatens to increase government debt burdens through rising yields on state bonds, prompting scrutiny of Indonesia's state budget resilience amid Middle East tensions.

Expansion into Malaysia: MedcoEnergi (MEDC) Secures Cendramas PSC Block

PT Medco Energi Internasional Tbk (MEDC), or MedcoEnergi, has expanded its Southeast Asian operations by signing a Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for the offshore Cendramas block in Malaysia through its subsidiary Medco Asia Pacific Limited in partnership with PETRONAS. The contract, effective from 23 September 2026, positions MedcoEnergi as the operator, with Dialog Resources Sdn. Bhd. and EnQuest Petroleum Production Malaysia Ltd. each holding 25% participating interest, leveraging synergies with its existing South Natuna Sea Block B operations due to similar geological characteristics. This move aligns with the company's strategy to broaden its regional upstream oil and gas portfolio, reinforcing its role as a cross-border energy player amid global industry challenges like energy transitions and commodity price fluctuations.

Gold Price Update Today at Pegadaian, Galeri 24, and UBS Declines

Gold prices in Indonesia declined midday on Friday, 3 April 2026, across several products offered by Pegadaian. The price of 1-gram Galeri 24 gold fell to Rp 2,870,000 from Rp 2,903,000 earlier, while UBS 1-gram gold dropped to Rp 2,885,000 from Rp 2,917,000. Pegadaian provides gold bars in sizes from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, catering to various investment needs.

Iranian Ambassador Appreciates Indonesia's Readiness to Facilitate US-Iran Peace

The Iranian Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, has expressed profound gratitude to the Indonesian government for its willingness to act as a facilitator in achieving peace amid the ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. He highlighted the widespread global impacts of the war, including on Indonesia, and emphasised that the US and Israel bear responsibility as the initiators. Boroujerdi called for unity among Muslims to counter these aggressions and urged a clear distinction between victims and perpetrators in the conflict.

Daniel Mutaqien Elected by Acclamation, Embraces All Golkar Cadres in West Java

Daniel Mutaqien Syafiuddin has been unanimously elected as the Chairman of the West Java Golkar Party Regional Leadership Council following the withdrawal of rival candidate Ahmad Hidayat, ensuring party unity without a vote. He pledged to unite all cadres and focus on restructuring the organisation, consolidating down to the grassroots level as instructed by the party's central board, in preparation for the 2029 elections. This acclamation marks a smooth and democratic process that strengthens Golkar's political consolidation in the region ahead of future electoral challenges.

Upstream Oil and Gas Industry Plays Strategic Role in Supporting Regional Economy

The upstream oil and gas industry is recognised for its strategic role in boosting regional economic growth through multiplier effects, including contributions to state revenues, increased local incomes, job creation, and infrastructure development. In 2023, Riau Province received Rp3.6 trillion in oil and gas revenue-sharing funds and Rp3.9 trillion in oil and gas property taxes, while nationally, oil and gas property taxes accounted for over 50% of total property tax revenue in 2022 at Rp13.711 trillion. Despite challenges in production decline and effective fund allocation by local governments, the sector remains vital for sustainable economic propulsion at both national and regional levels.

US tariff uncertainty pushes Indian exporters to more stable markets like Japan

Uncertainty over US tariffs and trade policies, compounded by geopolitical tensions, is severely disrupting India's textile export sector, leading to withheld orders, steep discounts, and layoffs among the 45 million workers employed in the industry. Indian exporters, unable to plan reliably for the American market, are pivoting to more stable destinations such as Japan, where high-quality standards and an economic partnership agreement offer potential opportunities despite the challenges of market entry. This shift underscores the need for India to diversify its export markets and enhance global competitiveness through government-led initiatives and branding efforts.

Din Syamsuddin Warns of Divisive Buzzers Amid Iran War Issue

Former Muhammadiyah Chairman Din Syamsuddin has urged Muslims, particularly in Indonesia, to remain united and resist provocation by buzzers and Israeli agents attempting to exacerbate Sunni-Shia divides during the ongoing Middle East conflict. Speaking alongside Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, in Jakarta, he emphasised fostering Islamic brotherhood over sectarian or ethnic differences, noting that Israeli attacks do not discriminate based on faith. Boroujerdi echoed this call by referencing a Quranic verse highlighting unity among early Muslims in times of war, attributing divisions to Israeli tactics.

Poroz Protests Indosat's Advertisement 'Calls Inviting Zakat, Don't Answer! It Might Be a Scammer'

The Association of Zakat Management Organizations (Poroz) has strongly protested an outdoor advertisement by IM3 Indosat featuring the message "Calls Inviting Zakat, Don't Answer! It Might Be a Scammer," deeming it provocative and damaging to public trust in official zakat efforts. Poroz Chairman Bukhori Muslim criticised the ad for stigmatising a key Islamic pillar by equating zakat invitations with potential scams, which could undermine responses to legitimate educational and collection services under Indonesia's Zakat Management Law No. 23 of 2011. He urged the telecommunications giant to demonstrate corporate social responsibility by adopting more neutral anti-fraud messaging that avoids targeting religious practices.

Asset Manager Merger: BRI Transfers Subsidiary to Danantara Valued at Rp 1.3 Trillion

PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has transferred two of its asset management subsidiaries, PT BRI Manajemen Investasi and PT PNM Investment Management, to PT Danantara Asset Management in a deal signed on 1 April 2026, with a total value of Rp 1.3 trillion. The transaction involves the sale of 19.5 million shares in BRI Manajemen Investasi for Rp 975 billion, representing 65% of its paid-up capital, and 109,999 shares in PNM Investment Management. This move aligns with Danantara's strategy to consolidate asset managers from subsidiaries of BRI, Bank Mandiri, and BNI, potentially strengthening the integrated management of state-owned financial assets.

Type C Excavation Trucks Banned from Pemedek Route During IBTK at Pura Besakih

Authorities in Karangasem, Bali, have prohibited Type C excavation trucks from using the pemedek route to Pura Agung Besakih during the annual 21-day Karya Ida Bhatara Turun Kabeh (IBTK) ceremony to prevent traffic disruptions, redirecting them via the Sidemen route instead. This measure follows last year's incident where a truck breakdown caused significant congestion, with sand transport now limited to pickups on the affected roads. Over 194 police personnel are deployed to manage traffic flow, directing worshippers to designated parking and routes to ensure smooth access amid expected crowds.

Upstream Oil and Gas Industry Boosts Regional Revenue and Infrastructure

The upstream oil and gas industry plays a strategic role in driving regional economic growth through multiplier effects, including increased state and local revenues, job creation, and infrastructure development. In 2023, Riau Province received Rp3.6 trillion in oil and gas profit-sharing funds and Rp3.9 trillion in oil and gas land and building taxes, highlighting the sector's substantial fiscal contributions. However, the effectiveness of these benefits depends on prudent local government management, as the industry remains a vital pillar for sustainable national and regional economies despite declining production trends.

Contraflow on Japek Toll Road During Good Friday Holiday: Locations and Times

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol, in collaboration with the police, has implemented a contraflow traffic arrangement on the Jakarta-Cikampek toll road from kilometre 47 to 66 starting at 09:18 WIB to manage the surge in eastward traffic during the Good Friday holiday. This strategic measure aims to alleviate congestion for vehicles heading from Jakarta towards Cikampek and eastern Trans Java regions, with continuous monitoring to ensure safety and efficiency. Authorities urge drivers to prioritise vehicle condition, road safety, and compliance with traffic instructions amid potential weather changes.

Jogja Financial Festival: LPS Ready to Boost Regional Economic Potential

The Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) is set to enhance the economic potential of the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY) through the Jogja Financial Festival scheduled for 22-24 May 2026, fostering cross-institutional collaboration and improving financial inclusion. LPS Chair Anggito Abimanyu highlighted commitments from Bank Indonesia and the Financial Services Authority to strengthen the regional financial sector, involving local government and banks to develop economic incentives. The event aims to unite the entire financial ecosystem, address the region's low lending despite strong funding, and target making 2 million unbanked individuals bankable this year.

Not on Fridays, Bekasi City ASN to WFH Every Wednesday

The Bekasi City Government has implemented a policy requiring civil servants (ASN) to work from home every Wednesday, following central government directives to conserve fuel and promote energy efficiency. Mayor Tri Adhianto emphasised that public services must remain optimal and uninterrupted, with essential sectors like health, waste management, and direct public-facing services continuing operations through special arrangements. This measure stems from the mayor's field evaluations of agencies, aiming to reduce mobility while prioritising citizen needs.

Palm Farmers Change Farming Methods, Productivity Begins to Improve

Indonesian palm oil farmers are experiencing enhanced productivity through practical training programmes like PERKASA, initiated by PT Triputra Agro Persada Tbk, which teach structured agronomic practices such as precise fertilisation, seedling quality, and pest management. Farmers like Maijan from Jambi and Durham from Paser report shifting from traditional habits to evidence-based methods, addressing longstanding field challenges and enabling sustainable improvements in their smallholder plantations. The company supports this transformation with WhatsApp consultations and simplified guidebooks, fostering a more skilled agricultural workforce in key palm oil regions.

East Kalimantan Inflation Reaches 3.31 Percent in March 2026

Inflation in East Kalimantan rose significantly to 3.31 percent year-on-year in March 2026, driven by price increases in housing, utilities, food, and education, though it remains below the national rate of 3.48 percent. Samarinda recorded the highest inflation at 3.92 percent, highlighting pressures on living costs that could affect household purchasing power, particularly for lower-income groups. Officials urge local government attention to mitigate impacts ahead of major holidays and energy price fluctuations.

Iranian Ambassador Calls for Unity Against Israel and the United States

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, met with Islamic leaders in Jakarta to urge unity in facing threats from Israel and the US, while expressing gratitude for Indonesia's willingness to facilitate peace in the region. Din Syamsuddin, former Muhammadiyah leader, condemned the US and Israeli attacks on Iran as violations of international law and Islamic principles, highlighting the humanitarian tragedy of civilian casualties. The meeting aimed to form alliances against such aggressions, portraying leaders like Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu as common enemies to global peace advocates.

Ciliwung River Increasingly Polluted, IPB University Expert Highlights Waste and Weak Supervision

The Ciliwung River has seen a worsening pollution over the past two years, driven by high volumes of untreated domestic waste, rapid population growth, and inadequate sanitation infrastructure, as highlighted by Prof Etty Riani from IPB University. Key pollutants exceeding standards include BOD, COD, nutrients, toxic gases, detergents, and microplastics, exacerbated by poor enforcement and riverbank encroachments that also heighten flood risks. To reverse this trend, she recommends large-scale wastewater treatment facilities, riverbank restoration with green spaces, stricter legal enforcement, environmental audits on industries, and integrated management across the watershed to ensure sustainable outcomes within a decade.

Grief of Din Syamsuddin Upon Learning One of the Fallen TNI Soldiers is a Muhammadiyah Cadre

Former Muhammadiyah leader Prof M Din Syamsuddin expressed profound sorrow upon discovering that Praka Farizal Romadhon, one of the Indonesian TNI soldiers killed in a Middle East conflict, was a Muhammadiyah cadre from Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta. During a meeting with the Iranian Ambassador in Jakarta, Syamsuddin conveyed condolences for the martyrdom of Iranian leaders and civilians in the war against the US and Israel, praising their struggle for truth, justice, and independence, while appreciating Iran's solidarity with Muslims worldwide. The incident highlights the shared suffering of the global Muslim community, including Palestinians and Iranians, as emphasized in a message from Islamic scholar KH Hasan Abdullah Sahal.

Village Fund Usage for TB Control Must Be on Target

Director of Postgraduate Studies at Universitas YARSI, Tjandra Yoga Aditama, affirms that utilising village funds for tuberculosis (TB) control remains relevant despite anticipated reductions in regional transfer and village fund budgets in the 2026 RAPBN. He highlights Indonesia's position as the world's second-highest in TB cases and stresses the importance of community-level interventions, including empowerment, education, and stigma reduction, rather than funding for drugs or diagnostics which are already provided centrally. Tjandra suggests emulating India's incentive programme for patients and underscores the role of village heads and community leaders in ensuring effective TB management at the grassroots level.

Bandung's Regional Revenue for 2025 Reaches 95.11% of Target

The Bandung City Government reported that regional revenue for the 2025 fiscal year reached Rp7.207 trillion, or 95.11% of the Rp7.577 trillion target, with breakdowns including 91.46% realisation of local own-source revenue and near-full transfer income. Despite falling short of the revenue goal, the city achieved positive outcomes in human development, with the Human Development Index at 84.66 points, economic growth of 5.29% exceeding the 5.1% target, and investment realisation surpassing expectations at Rp11.92 trillion. These results underscore Bandung's resilient economy and commitment to inclusive, sustainable development amid challenges in fiscal performance.

“Feels Bad If I Don’t Give”: Illegal Parking, Voluntary but Compulsory Payments

Illegal parking attendants persist in Jakarta's Blok M area despite recent crackdowns, with motorists handing over small sums like Rp 2,000 out of social obligation rather than formal requirement. Interviewed drivers describe a sense of discomfort mixed with empathy, attributing the practice to limited job opportunities. This phenomenon highlights ongoing challenges in urban enforcement and informal economies in Indonesia's capital.

Partnering with Danantara and Jasa Raharja, Minister Fadli Zon Initiates Film and Photography Museum in Old Town

Indonesia's Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, has proposed a strategic collaboration between the Ministry of Culture, Danantara, and PT Jasa Raharja to transform a historic building in Jakarta's Kali Besar area into a dedicated Museum of Film and Photography. This initiative aims to address the lack of representative spaces for showcasing Indonesia's rich visual history, turning underutilised state assets into productive public venues that enhance cultural education and tourism in the iconic Old Town district. The project is expected to elevate the area from a mere selfie spot to an integrated hub for learning about the nation's creative industry evolution.

Government Decides to Distribute Free Nutritious Meals Only on School Days, None on Holidays

The Indonesian government has revised the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, limiting distribution to school days only, excluding holidays, following an evaluation that deemed the previous scheme inefficient. This adjustment applies primarily to students and aims to enhance programme effectiveness, while support for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and toddlers remains unchanged at six days a week. The change is projected to save up to Rp 20 trillion annually, with flexible provisions for remote and high-stunting areas to ensure nutritional needs are met.

Cirebon Regency implements local greeting to preserve tradition

The Cirebon Regency government in West Java has introduced the traditional greeting "Kulanun-Mangga" to revive local wisdom and strengthen cultural identity, coinciding with the regency's 544th anniversary. Bupati Imron clarified that this greeting complements national and religious salutations without replacing them and will be incorporated into official events and public interactions. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding Cirebon's living cultural heritage, as highlighted by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi, who praised the region's tangible cultural legacy.

Labour Minister Yassierli: Industrial Relations Must Level Up So Workers Are Not Left Behind by AI

Indonesian Labour Minister Yassierli has urged workers and employers to elevate industrial relations from mere harmony to transformative collaboration to keep pace with automation and AI advancements. Speaking at the 2026 National Deliberation of FSP FARKES KSPSI, he emphasised that such relations should foster productivity and welfare while ensuring no worker is left behind in the digital shift, particularly in sectors like health and pharmaceuticals. He outlined a progression from regulatory compliance to strategic partnerships, viewing workers as key assets to enhance business competitiveness and sustainable welfare.

Iranian Ambassador Claims Sunni-Shia Sectarian Divide is a Zionist Fabrication

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, has stated that the Israel-US conflict with Iran has reignited debates over Sunni-Shia divisions, which he attributes to Zionist efforts to fragment the Muslim ummah. He emphasised that in Iran, sectarian differences have been transcended, with Sunni and Shia communities coexisting harmoniously, even serving together in the military, and urged against amplifying such divides during wartime. This perspective highlights Iran's narrative of unity against external threats from Israel.

Iran's IRGC Claims Attacks on US Steel Facilities in UAE, Bahrain

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed responsibility for striking US-owned steel facilities in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and aluminium production sites in Bahrain, along with Israeli military targets, in retaliation for a joint US-Israeli operation on 28 February that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and over 1,200 others. The attacks also targeted US military bases near Manama and three Israeli air force bases: Tel Nof, Palmahim, and Ben Gurion. This escalation heightens tensions in the Middle East, with potential implications for global energy markets and regional stability.

Ministry of Social Affairs and Ministry of Defence Sign MoU on Transfer of Heroes' Cemetery Management

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs (Kemensos) and the Ministry of Defence (Kemenhan) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to transfer the management of the National Heroes' Cemetery (TMP) in Kalibata and approximately 217 other national heroes' graves across Indonesia, following directives from President Prabowo Subianto to optimise the handling of heroic sites. The transition begins operationally in April 2026 under Kemenhan's leadership, with Kemensos providing administrative, human resources, and funding support until the end of the year, aiming to enhance not just physical maintenance but also the promotion of patriotic values and heroism for younger generations. This move addresses Kemensos's budget and resource limitations, positioning Kemenhan to deliver more effective management and educational outreach.

Government Processes Flood-Carried Timber from Sumatra into Temporary Housing Construction Materials

The Indonesian government is utilising timber swept away by floods and landslides in various Sumatra regions to construct temporary housing (Huntara) for disaster-affected residents, aiming to accelerate post-disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction. Led by Task Force Chairman Tito Karnavian, the initiative has already processed thousands of cubic metres of wood in areas like North Aceh, Aceh Tamiang, South and Central Tapanuli in North Sumatra, and Padang in West Sumatra, with additional economic benefits through processing surplus wood into other materials and energy sources to generate regional income. This policy, based on a Ministerial Decree, targets full handling of all floating timber by addressing remaining stockpiles in remote areas.

Commission V Highlights OPD Performance in West Java Governor's 2025 Accountability Report

The Commission V of the West Java Provincial DPRD is scrutinising the performance of various Regional Device Organisations (OPDs) during discussions on the Governor's 2025 Accountability Report, particularly focusing on programmes that exceeded their targets. Member Encep Sugiana emphasised the need for a comprehensive review to determine whether overachievement stems from overly conservative planning or exceptional implementation, aiming to refine future development strategies for better alignment with community needs. The three-day sessions across regions like Purwakarta and Bekasi involve key sectors such as education, health, and social welfare, with recommendations expected to enhance public service quality in West Java.

Minister Zon eyes converting SOE heritage sites into cultural spaces

Culture Minister Fadli Zon is in discussions with sovereign wealth fund Danantara to repurpose cultural heritage sites owned by state-owned enterprises, such as a historic building in Jakarta's Old Town owned by Jasa Raharja, into a museum dedicated to photography and film. This initiative addresses the lack of proper spaces for Indonesia's valuable collections and aims to promote culture through film, which integrates various artistic expressions, while transforming underutilized assets into productive public spaces. Jasa Raharja's president director supports the proposal, highlighting its potential to preserve heritage, attract visitors, and boost tourism in the area through educational and cultural experiences.

Iranian Ambassador Urges Indonesian Muslim Community to Pray for Iran During Friday Prayers Amid US-Israel Tensions

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, has called on Indonesian Muslims to include prayers for Iran in their Friday congregational prayers, citing escalating tensions with the United States and Israel. Speaking at a meeting with prominent Islamic figures in South Jakarta, he expressed deep appreciation for the unsolicited support from Indonesian Islamic organisations, including calls for the special qunut nazilah prayer. Boroujerdi emphasised that such moral support through prayer is a vital strength for Iran in confronting pressures from powerful adversaries.