Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 April 2026

Showing 751-800 of 874 articles

HKI Urges Government to Optimise Global Industrial Relocation Opportunities

The Indonesian Industrial Estates Association (HKI) has highlighted persistent investment barriers in regions, such as complex permitting and spatial planning uncertainties, which threaten to undermine Indonesia's potential as a prime destination for global supply chain diversification. HKI welcomes President Prabowo Subianto's formation of a Debottlenecking Task Force and stresses the need for swift execution, regulatory certainty, and bold action at the local level to foster an efficient, transparent, and competitive investment ecosystem. Amid geopolitical shifts driving international firms to relocate, HKI commits to collaborating with central and regional governments to resolve on-the-ground obstacles and capitalise on this momentum.

Gold Prices at Pegadaian on 3 April 2026, Galeri 24 and UBS Decline

Gold prices at Pegadaian fell on Friday, 3 April 2026, with the Galeri 24 one-gram product dropping Rp12,000 to Rp2,903,000 per gram from the previous day's Rp2,915,000. Similarly, the UBS one-gram gold weakened by Rp11,000 to Rp2,917,000 per gram, down from Rp2,928,000. This decline reflects ongoing fluctuations in the precious metals market, which investors closely monitor for economic indicators.

Rising Plastic Prices: Causes and Impacts on the Market

The recent surge in plastic prices in Indonesia has raised concerns among business actors, primarily driven by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East disrupting global supplies of raw materials. Conflicts involving Israel, the United States, and Iran have led to the closure of key energy shipping routes, limiting naphtha availability and creating uncertainty in the petrochemical industry. This global issue affects not only Indonesia but markets worldwide, exacerbating supply chain challenges for domestic manufacturers.

Indonesia Showcases Talent at Art Basel Hong Kong 2026

Eight Indonesian galleries participated in Art Basel Hong Kong 2026 under the 'Rising Currents' initiative, a programme by Indonesia's Ministry of Culture aimed at promoting national artistic talent on global stages. This involvement, part of the National Cultural Arts Talent Management programme, highlights efforts to enhance connectivity within the art ecosystem, foster collaborations, and ensure inclusive representation of emerging and established artists in the international contemporary art scene. Featuring works from artists like Cecil Mariani and Aharimu at galleries such as RUCI Art Space, the event underscores Indonesia's growing presence in Asia's vibrant art market.

Details of Antam Gold Prices at Pegadaian on 3 April 2026, Buyback Declines

Antam gold prices at Pegadaian rose on Friday, 3 April 2026, with the selling price for 1 gram increasing by Rp 20,000 to Rp 3,039,000, while the buyback price fell by Rp 5,000 to Rp 2,720,000. This reflects ongoing fluctuations in the precious metals market, offering investors insights into short-term trends. Pegadaian markets Antam gold bars in sizes from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, though current listings on their Galeri 24 site cover up to 100 grams.

China Aggressively Burns Cash While America is Busy with War in Iran

As the United States focuses on military conflicts in the Middle East, China is ramping up its venture capital investments in startups, with new commitments reaching a record 86 billion yuan in the first two months of the year, surpassing previous highs. This surge is driven by Beijing's strategy to bolster key technologies like AI, robotics, and quantum computing, with government and state-owned enterprises dominating the funding landscape. While this signals a major shift towards state-led innovation, investors warn that excessive government involvement could distort capital allocation and inflate valuation bubbles.

Why Were Dude Harlino and Alyssa Questioned in the PT Dana Syariah Indonesia Case?

Indonesian celebrities Dude Harlino and Alyssa Soebandono were questioned for approximately five hours by the National Police's Special Economic Crimes Directorate as witnesses in an alleged fraud and embezzlement case involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia (PT DSI), where they served as brand ambassadors. The interrogation focused on their job responsibilities, contracts, remuneration, and understanding of the company's business plan, with their legal representative emphasising that their involvement was strictly professional and limited to promotional roles without any internal management participation. This examination is part of a broader investigation into the company's funding distribution practices, highlighting the scrutiny on endorsers in financial misconduct cases.

How to Check PKH Social Assistance for April 2026 via Mobile Phone: Just Enter Your ID Number

The Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs has resumed the Family Hope Program (PKH), a regular social assistance initiative targeting registered beneficiary families in the National Social and Economic Single Data (DTSEN). Citizens can verify their eligibility for the April 2026 disbursement online by entering their National ID Number (NIK) on a mobile device, particularly relevant for those who received aid in the first quarter of 2026. This guide ensures transparency and accessibility in accessing government support amid ongoing economic recovery efforts.

Coal Prices Rise Again, Riding the Oil Surge

Coal prices have edged up to US$139.3 per tonne, supported by a rebound in global energy prices following a sharp 8% jump in Brent crude oil to US$109.28 per barrel, amid disruptions from Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Bloomberg Intelligence estimates that prolonged LNG supply issues could boost global thermal coal demand by 40-60 million tonnes, equivalent to 4-6% of total trade, though switching from gas to coal in Europe is gradual due to reduced capacity. Additionally, maintenance on China's crucial Daqin Railway from April 1 is set to reduce domestic coal transport by up to 1.3 million tonnes per day, potentially tightening supply despite subdued electricity demand.

IDX Announces Shares with High Shareholding Concentration

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) and the Indonesian Central Securities Depository (KSEI) have announced a list of shares exhibiting high shareholding concentration (HSC) following the market close on 2 April 2026. This initiative, inspired by practices in Hong Kong, aims to provide additional information to investors without implying any regulatory violations, allowing listed companies to review and enhance their investment appeal for potential removal from the list. The move underscores efforts to improve market transparency and attractiveness in Indonesia's capital markets.

Tangled Threads of the Stray Bullet Case Involving TNI in Gresik: Mediation Fails, Family Demands Justice

A stray bullet incident from a TNI Navy Marine shooting range in Surabaya injured two 14-year-old students at SMPN 33 Gresik on 17 December 2025, piercing one's hand and embedding in the other's back, sparking a dispute over accountability and medical care. Despite initial apologies and promises of full responsibility from the military, mediation efforts collapsed amid disputes over hospital room choices and demands for the return of bullet fragments, prompting the victims' family to seek justice in Jakarta. The mother has outlined six demands, including an official apology, coverage of treatment and psychological recovery costs, and long-term compensation, highlighting tensions between civilian rights and military protocol.

Moments Between Prabowo and the South Korean President: From Finger Heart to 'Anabul' Diplomacy

During his state visit to South Korea, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto engaged in both formal diplomacy and personal gestures with President Lee Jae Myung, including a 'finger heart' photo with Indonesian K-pop idol Carmen and gifting items to Lee's pet dog Bobby, dubbed 'anabul' diplomacy. The leaders elevated bilateral ties to a Special Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, signing 10 MoUs that secure $10.2 billion in investments for Indonesia in key sectors such as energy, green transition, manufacturing, digital technology, and infrastructure. This agreement underscores Indonesia's unique status as the only nation with such a partnership with South Korea, enhancing economic collaboration and cultural exchanges.

Garuda Indonesia Launches Denpasar-Jayapura Return Route with Tickets Starting at Rp 3 Million

Garuda Indonesia has introduced a new return route from Denpasar to Jayapura via Jakarta, Timika, and Jayapura, operating four times a week using Boeing 737-800NG aircraft. This service, with tickets starting from Rp 3 million, aims to boost tourism and economic growth in Papua by enhancing connectivity. As Indonesia's flag carrier, Garuda plans to adaptively expand its network to meet societal needs and strengthen its strategic role.

Government Pushes Energy-Saving Movement, Toyota's Response

The Indonesian government is promoting an energy-saving initiative through cultural transformation in the workplace, which Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (TMMIN) views as a key opportunity to accelerate innovations in eco-friendly automotive technologies. TMMIN's Vice President Director, Bob Azam, highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance vehicle efficiency, noting that current conventional models match the energy efficiency of early hybrid generations, with future developments focusing on combining technologies like hybrids and ethanol to boost sustainability and support the agricultural sector. This response underscores the industry's commitment to global efficiency demands and economic benefits for farmers through alternative energy sources.

ChatGPT's New Money Machine Heats Up, "Lights Up" in Testing Phase

OpenAI has generated over $100 million in revenue from an advertising trial for ChatGPT launched in February 2026, marking a shift towards monetising its services after years of non-profit operations. The trial, limited to the US and involving over 600 advertisers, targets free and basic users without disrupting AI interactions or appearing in sensitive topics. This success signals ChatGPT's potential as a major revenue stream, with plans to expand to countries like Canada and Australia while balancing user experience.

Indonesian Hybrid MPV: Innova Zenix Leads Early 2026 Sales

The hybrid MPV segment in Indonesia is gaining momentum in early 2026, with Toyota's Innova Zenix leading sales at 1,057 units, followed by the Veloz Hybrid at 484 units. New entrants like the Wuling Confero Darion PHEV (166 units) and established models such as the Honda Step WGN e:HEV (70 units) and Nissan Serena e-POWER (35 units) are contributing to the shift towards electrified vehicles. This trend highlights growing consumer preference for practical, efficient hybrids, supported by strong brands and extensive after-sales networks, potentially boosting the automotive industry's transition to greener technologies.

Questioned by Bareskrim, Dude Herlino Denies Involvement in PT DSI's Internal Affairs

Actor Dude Herlino has denied any internal involvement with PT Dana Syariah Indonesia (DSI) during questioning by Bareskrim Polri investigators over the alleged Rp2.4 trillion fraud case affecting 15,000 victims. He asserted that his role was strictly as a professional brand ambassador, with all collaborations governed by official contracts and preceded by legal due diligence, including verification of OJK and Sharia Supervisory Board approvals. His lawyer emphasised that Herlino lacked knowledge of the company's internal operations, positioning him purely as an external party hired for promotional activities.

Pegadaian Gold Prices on 3 April 2026: Antam Surges, UBS and Galeri24 Correct

Gold prices at Pegadaian exhibited contrasting trends on the morning of Friday, 3 April 2026, with Antam gold bars rising significantly to Rp3,039,000 per gram, up Rp20,000 from the previous day, while UBS and Galeri24 products saw slight declines to Rp2,917,000 and Rp2,903,000 per gram, respectively. This movement underscores Antam's appeal as a hedge against global fluctuations, potentially offering accumulation opportunities in the dipping UBS and Galeri24 variants for long-term investors. Prices remain dynamic, updated post 08:30 WIB daily for Antam via Logam Mulia.

Manado's Power System Successfully Restored Following Magnitude 7.6 Earthquake

PT PLN has fully restored the electricity system in Manado and surrounding areas after a magnitude 7.6 earthquake disrupted services, achieving 100% restoration by 1:51 PM WITA through the efforts of its Sulawesi Utara, Tengah, and Gorontalo unit. The recovery involved normalising 14 transmission lines and reactivating 887 distribution substations, with safety checks prioritised to ensure no structural damage posed risks. PLN commended its field teams and urged the public to remain vigilant, reporting any hazards via the PLN Mobile app to maintain reliable power supply.

CMES Indonesia 2026 International Industrial Machinery Exhibition Set to Take Place in Jakarta

The CMES Indonesia International Machine Tool Exhibition is scheduled for 2-4 July 2026 at the Nusantara International Convention Exhibition in Jakarta, marking the event's expansion to Indonesia following its successful debut in Vietnam in 2025. Amid Indonesia's rapid industrial growth under the 'Making Indonesia 4.0' initiative, the exhibition will showcase global machine tools, automation solutions, and robotics to meet rising demands in sectors like automotive, electronics, infrastructure, and new energy, where 75% of premium equipment is still imported. With partnerships involving the Indonesian government and industry associations, the event aims to foster high-level forums and business matchmaking, leveraging CMES's extensive experience to drive manufacturing advancements in Southeast Asia's largest economy.

LAN Issues Circular No. 6 of 2026 to Ensure Optimal ASN Training

The National Institute of Public Administration (LAN) has issued Circular No. 6 of 2026 to adjust guidelines for structural leadership training, basic training for civil service candidates (CPNS), and technical and functional training, aiming to align competency development with national strategic policies amid budget efficiency measures. Deputy for ASN Capacity Development, Dr. Tri Widodo WU, emphasised that budget constraints should not hinder access to quality learning, advocating for adaptive methods that maintain the essence of training without reducing opportunities for civil servants. This initiative is expected to sustain professional and competitive bureaucracy, supporting national development goals at both central and regional levels.

Yesterday's Politics: Prabowo Arrives in Jakarta to KAAN Aircraft Purchase

On 2 April, President Prabowo Subianto returned to Jakarta after completing official visits to Japan and South Korea, marking the continuation of his international engagements. The Ministry of Defence confirmed the acquisition of KAAN fighter jets from Turkish Aerospace Industries via foreign loans and is still negotiating the purchase of KF-21 Boramae aircraft from South Korea. Additionally, Prabowo instructed the rapid evacuation of residents affected by a tsunami in North Sulawesi and North Maluku, while the Banten Provincial Government prepares a monitoring app for civil servants working from home on Fridays.

IDX Amends Rules on Share Ownership Reporting

The Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) has issued amendments to its Director's Decree on Monthly Reporting Requirements for Share Ownership Registration, effective from 1 May 2026, expanding disclosure obligations for listed companies. The new rules require detailed reporting on shareholdings exceeding 5%, controlling affiliations below 5%, director and commissioner ownership, and beneficial owners for stakes of 10% or more, aiming to enhance transparency and investor protection. Additionally, IDX will publish warnings on high shareholding concentration to alert investors, with data accessible via its website.

Global Oil Prices Soar, Purbaya Ensures Budget Deficit Remains Below 3 Percent

Indonesian Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has projected the 2026 state budget deficit to be 2.9 percent of GDP, even with global oil prices averaging $100 per barrel due to the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Despite the surge in Brent and WTI prices from January's $64 per barrel, the government is implementing spending cuts and holds a substantial budget surplus of Rp420 trillion as a buffer, without yet resorting to it. This approach maintains fiscal discipline amid rising energy costs while keeping subsidised and non-subsidised fuel prices stable.

UBS and Galeri24 Gold Prices Fall, Antam Rises at Pegadaian on Friday Morning

Gold prices at Pegadaian showed a decline for UBS and Galeri24 to Rp2,917,000 and Rp2,903,000 per gram respectively, while Antam increased to Rp3,039,000 per gram as of Friday morning at 07:40 WIB. Compared to Thursday's prices of Rp2,923,000 for UBS, Rp3,019,000 for Antam, and Rp2,908,000 for Galeri24, these fluctuations reflect ongoing volatility in the precious metals market. Detailed pricing for various gram quantities of each product is available, with Antam prices on Logam Mulia updated after 08:30 WIB, underscoring the importance of real-time monitoring for investors.

Legal news from yesterday: Robert Bonosusatya to Alyssa Soebandono examined

Indonesian anti-corruption and law enforcement agencies conducted several examinations and actions on 2 April, including the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) questioning businessman Robert Priantono Bonosusatya in a graft case involving former Kutai Kartanegara Regent Rita Widyasari. The National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency summoned celebrity couple Dude Herlino and Alyssa Soebandono as witnesses in the investigation of PT Dana Syariah Indonesia, while the Attorney General's Office dismissed an assistant prosecutor in East Java following an internal security operation. Additionally, KPK revealed that CCTV at the home of West Java DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono was disabled by family members during a raid, and a DPR member called for strict sanctions against prosecutors in Karo Regency amid controversy in videographer Amsal Sitepu's case. These developments highlight ongoing efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability within Indonesia's legal institutions.

Variety of Safe Investment Options Amid Global Geopolitical Turmoil

Amid escalating global uncertainties, including geopolitical conflicts and economic volatility, investors are turning to safe haven assets like gold, strong currencies, and government bonds to protect their portfolios. Indonesia's economy remains resilient, offering attractive long-term prospects, while diversification across defensive stocks, real estate, and other instruments is crucial for risk management. This approach helps mitigate the impacts of inflation, currency fluctuations, and market downturns in an unstable international landscape.

First IKN Church Nearly Complete, Awaiting Vatican Approval

The construction of the Basilica Nusantara Santo Fransiskus Xaverius, the first church in Indonesia's new capital Nusantara (IKN), has reached 99% completion, with only Vatican approval pending for its basilica status. Designed to hold up to 2,500 worshippers and symbolising national unity and interfaith tolerance, the project reflects the Indonesian Church's commitment to cultural dialogue and harmony. With a budget of Rp704.9 billion and local liturgical furnishings, the church's dedication is planned for late July, underscoring IKN's role in fostering spiritual and communal development.

Purbaya's Strategy to Safeguard the State Budget: Fuel Prices Held, Subsidies Could Reach Rp 100 Trillion

The Indonesian government has opted to freeze fuel price increases amid global pressures, while preparing measures to maintain fiscal health, including potential subsidies up to Rp 100 trillion. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa emphasised strategies such as expenditure efficiency, revenue optimisation, and prioritising growth-oriented programmes to keep the budget deficit below 3% even with oil at $100 per barrel. This approach ensures stability in domestic fuel prices and protects social welfare without overburdening national finances.

KPK Reports 96.24% Compliance in LHKPN Submissions

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has recorded a 96.24% compliance rate for State Organisers' Wealth Reports (LHKPN) as of the deadline on 1 April 2026, reflecting growing collective adherence across sectors. The judiciary achieved the highest compliance at 99.99%, while the legislative sector saw a significant improvement to 82.21%. KPK views this progress as evidence of the LHKPN system's effectiveness in enhancing transparency and bolstering anti-corruption prevention efforts.

WFH Bird, Cat, and Cow

This column categorises Indonesian civil servants into three metaphorical types based on their work styles: the 'bird' type, who quietly and effectively complete essential tasks without seeking attention; the 'cat' type, who appear busy and socially active but often produce vague results and create unnecessary administrative noise; and the 'cow' type, who are stable and rule-abiding but notoriously slow. Drawing from the author's decades of experience, the piece highlights the irony in bureaucratic cultures that undervalue the unobtrusive yet foundational contributions of the 'bird' workers. It underscores the need for a system that rewards substantive output over superficial visibility in public administration.

Notes for Civil Servants on WFH: From Long Weekends to Periodic Evaluations

The Indonesian government has implemented a policy requiring civil servants (ASN) to work from home every Friday, starting from 1 April 2026, as outlined in a circular aimed at transforming work culture in local government. While intended to reduce fuel consumption and enhance efficiency, lawmakers from the House of Representatives' Commission II express concerns that this could lead to extended weekends and reduced productivity, potentially disrupting public services. They urge regular evaluations, strict oversight, and sanctions to ensure compliance and maintain productivity levels.

National Human Rights Commission to Seek Statements from Four TNI Suspects in Andrie Yunus Case

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) plans to request statements from four TNI members suspected of throwing acid at KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, while deepening the evidence investigation. Komnas HAM has already sought information from TNI officials and is pushing for transparency in the military's ongoing probe, which is nearly complete pending victim medical results and witness testimony. The suspects, from the TNI's Denma Bais unit, were arrested by the Military Police Centre, highlighting concerns over accountability in cases involving security forces.

Still Stable, Here Are the Latest City Car Prices for April 2026

City cars remain an appealing option for urban consumers seeking compact vehicles with strong performance and fuel efficiency, despite a slight decline in popularity. As of April 2026, prices for models from Honda, Suzuki, Daihatsu, and Toyota are stable compared to the previous month, with no increases or changes in available variants. This stability highlights ongoing competition in the segment across aspects like performance, design, comfort, features, and pricing, potentially benefiting budget-conscious buyers in Indonesia's automotive market.

New Phase in Child Rape Case at Orphanage by Foundation Chairman in Buleleng

Police in Buleleng, Bali, have named I Made Wijaya, the 57-year-old chairman of the Ganesha Sevanam Orphanage, as a suspect in the repeated physical and sexual abuse of seven children aged 12 to 21, including multiple rapes of a 16-year-old victim. Wijaya was immediately detained due to concerns over his attempts to intimidate victims and prevent them from testifying, with charges layered under child protection laws, the Criminal Code, and the Sexual Violence Crime Act carrying a maximum penalty of 15 years' imprisonment. Authorities are prioritising victim safety through psychological support, identity protection, and relocation, while handling each case separately to ensure thorough investigation and justice.

Over 10.6 Million Taxpayers Submit Annual Tax Returns for 2025, Coretax Activation Reaches 17.6 Million Accounts

The Indonesian Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has recorded 10,653,931 annual income tax returns (SPT PPh) for the 2025 tax year submitted by 1 April 2026, reflecting strong taxpayer compliance amid the rollout of the new Coretax system. Employee individuals dominate the filings, with over 9.3 million submissions, followed by non-employees and corporate entities. With 17.6 million Coretax accounts activated, including significant numbers from individuals, businesses, and government institutions, the DJP urges remaining taxpayers to file promptly to avoid administrative penalties, aiming to enhance transparency and accuracy in national tax data.

Facts on Cimuning LPG Bulk Filling Station Fire Causing Injuries, Cause Under Investigation

A major fire at the Cimuning Bulk LPG Filling Station in Bekasi, West Java, on 1 April 2026, triggered explosions and spread to nearby residential areas, injuring 17 people including a toddler and destroying 15 homes, kiosks, and other structures. Preliminary investigations suggest a gas leak ignited by an electrical short circuit as the cause, with police forensics teams actively probing the incident. The event underscores vulnerabilities in LPG infrastructure safety near populated zones, prompting ongoing assessments of material losses exceeding a 2,000 square metre area.

Jakarta's Mobile SIM Services Suspended Today, Friday 3 April 2026

Jakarta's mobile driving licence (SIM) services, along with other related units, will be closed on Friday, 3 April 2026, due to the national holiday commemorating the Death of Jesus Christ. The Metro Jaya Police have announced that services at Satpas Daan Mogot, DKI Jakarta SIM units, and mobile outlets will resume normally on Saturday, 4 April 2026, with extensions granted to those whose licences expire on the holiday without penalties. This policy aims to provide convenience to the public affected by the temporary closure during the national holiday.

5 Key Points on Dude Herlino and Alyssa Soebandono as Witnesses in the PT DSI Case

Celebrity couple Dude Herlino and Alyssa Soebandono were questioned by Indonesian police as witnesses in the Rp 2.4 trillion fraud case involving PT Dana Syariah Indonesia (DSI), a fintech firm accused of creating fictitious investment projects that defrauded 15,000 lenders. The pair, who served as brand ambassadors for DSI from 2022 to 2025, cooperated fully, answering 53 questions about their professional roles, contracts, and the company's promotions, while emphasising they had no involvement in internal management. Police are probing whether DSI provided misleading narratives to influencers like them to bolster public trust, amid ongoing investigations that have led to four arrests and the seizure of assets.

Illegal Parking in Blok M Causes Losses, Visitors Demand Non-Stop Enforcement

Visitors to the Blok M area in South Jakarta are frustrated by rampant illegal parking attendants who engage in double parking practices, leading to financial losses and inconvenience. They call for continuous monitoring by transportation authorities and police, better signage for official parking spots, and an expansion of parking capacity to deter reliance on illicit services. Recent enforcement efforts by local officials have only temporarily curbed the issue, highlighting the need for sustained action to ensure long-term compliance.

Odd-Even Vehicle Restriction in Jakarta Not Applicable Today

The odd-even vehicle restriction system in Jakarta has been suspended for Friday, 3 April 2026, in observance of the national holiday commemorating Good Friday. This allows all four-wheeled or larger vehicles to travel freely on the usually restricted roads without regard to odd or even number plates. Road users are urged to maintain traffic discipline to prevent congestion on major routes during the holiday period.

Bulog CEO Urges Public Not to Panic Over Rice Stockpiles

Bulog's Director General, Agmad Rizal Ramdhani, has reassured the public that national rice stocks are secure at 4.387 million tonnes, stored in Bulog warehouses until April 2026, amid global geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. He anticipates procurement reaching 5 million tonnes by the end of April, supported by ongoing harvests, and emphasised that ample storage capacity and new warehouse constructions will bolster food distribution. Bulog is actively monitoring prices and conducting market operations to maintain stability, despite challenges with fluctuating chilli prices due to weather factors.

Komnas HAM Seeks Information from TNI on Acid Attack Case Against Andrie Yunus, Here Are the Results

The National Human Rights Commission (Komnas HAM) has questioned the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) regarding the acid attack on KontraS activist Andrie Yunus, learning that the military police investigation is nearly complete, with four suspects from TNI's Denma Bais unit already identified and charged under heavy assault provisions of the Criminal Code. Komnas HAM is pushing for transparency in the process, including public disclosure of the perpetrators' identities and access for the commission to interview the suspects. This case underscores ongoing concerns about accountability within the military and the protection of human rights activists in Indonesia.

Manual Ticketing Returns, Targeting Violations That Trigger Accidents

The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps is reintroducing manual traffic ticketing as a limited complement to the Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement (ETLE) system, capping it at 5% of total enforcement to address high-risk violations like wrong-way driving that often lead to accidents. Director of Law Enforcement Brigadier General Faizal emphasised the psychological impact of direct officer-penaliser interactions, which foster greater deterrence than electronic methods, while ETLE remains the primary transparent and accountable backbone. This balanced approach aims to enhance overall traffic law enforcement effectiveness and reduce accident-causing infractions, with expansions in technology deployment in regions like South Sulawesi.

[POPULAR AUTOMOTIVE] The Automotive Industry Is Not Doing Well, Convert to Electric Motorcycles or Buy New Electric Motorcycles

The automotive industry faces significant challenges, with Toyota signaling a crisis due to technological competition and geopolitical pressures, while popular interest focuses on vehicle modifications and new concepts like Hyundai's Boulder SUV. In Indonesia, low-cost green cars (LCGCs) remain in demand despite new competitors, and President Prabowo Subianto is pushing for a nationwide transition to electric vehicles through new purchases and conversions as part of the national energy transition. This reflects broader efforts to promote sustainable transport amid industry turbulence.

Trump Urges NATO to Have the Courage to Send Military Ships to the Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump has urged NATO members to muster the courage to deploy naval vessels to the Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing disruptions caused by the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Criticising the alliance as cowardly and absent from the vital oil shipping route, Trump dismissed his frustration with NATO while pushing European allies and Gulf states to take greater responsibility for securing the strait. This comes as NATO allies criticise Trump for initiating the war against Iran without consultation, with Trump considering a unilateral US withdrawal despite legal barriers requiring two-thirds Senate approval.

BGN Emphasises No Service, No Pay Principle; SPPG Incentive Can Be Immediately Halted

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has underscored the strict 'no service, no pay' principle in the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG), allowing for the immediate suspension of the Rp6 million daily incentive to partners if their facilities fail to meet operational standards, such as hygiene and sanitation requirements. This punitive mechanism aims to enforce compliance and maintain food safety and environmental cleanliness, positioning the programme as a key element of public governance transformation. Despite operational adjustments needed, BGN views the partnership scheme as strategically vital for long-term investment in the nation's future generations and self-reliant sovereignty.

BYD Drives Mutually Beneficial Global Expansion

Chinese automaker BYD is prioritising technological innovation and mutually beneficial partnerships to expand its presence in global markets amid rising fuel prices accelerating the shift to electric vehicles (EVs). In Thailand, supported by government policies and strong sales growth, BYD has localised production with a factory in Rayong producing 150,000 units annually, while overseas sales surged 145% in 2025, exceeding 1 million units. The company refutes claims of overcapacity and dumping, emphasising market-driven demand and competitive advantages in cost and innovation, positioning China at the forefront of the global automotive electrification transformation.

Electricity Token Prices for April 2026: How Many kWh Do You Get for Rp 20,000-Rp 100,000?

The Indonesian government has decided to keep non-subsidised electricity tariffs unchanged for April 2026, meaning electricity token prices remain the same as in previous periods. This stability is influenced by factors such as the rupiah exchange rate, inflation, Indonesian Crude Price, and reference coal prices, ensuring no adjustments despite the quarterly review. For prepaid PLN customers, the amount of kWh obtained from token purchases varies based on installed capacity tariffs and local street lighting taxes ranging from 3-10%.

Lebanon Test: Is Indonesia Ready to Bear the Risks?

The recent deaths of three Indonesian TNI soldiers in the UNIFIL mission amid escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah have sparked national grief and calls for withdrawal to ensure safety. However, the article argues that Indonesia's participation is a vital constitutional duty under the 1945 Constitution's preamble to maintain world order, serving as a strategic buffer rather than mere symbolism. It emphasises the professional restraint of peacekeeping forces, which de-escalate rather than expand conflicts, highlighting the need to view such sacrifices through the lens of broader diplomatic commitment.