Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 April 2026

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This is How Much Debt Collectors in Indonesia Earn for Each Repossessed Overdue Vehicle

Debt collectors in Indonesia can earn commissions ranging from Rp5 million to Rp20 million per repossessed vehicle, depending on the type and value of the asset, as revealed by an asset recovery practitioner. These fees are agreed upon with leasing companies and influenced by the collector's track record. Regulated by POJK 22/2023, the practice emphasises ethical debt collection methods, with OJK stressing consumer responsibilities and non-protection for bad-faith defaulters, highlighting the balance between financial recovery and consumer rights in the lending sector.

Ministry of Hajj Oversees Export of Spices and Ready-to-Eat Foods for 2026 Hajj Logistics

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has facilitated the initial export of 100 tonnes of spice paste and ready-to-eat meals from Indonesia to Saudi Arabia to meet the logistical needs of Indonesian pilgrims for the 2026 Hajj season. This shipment, departing from Soekarno-Hatta Airport with support from PT Pos Indonesia and Garuda Indonesia, forms part of a total 230 tonnes aimed at ensuring halal standards, food safety, and timely delivery. The initiative not only supports pilgrim consumption but also serves as a test run to enhance domestic industry capacity, reduce import dependency, and improve cost efficiency in the national Hajj logistics system.

Ahead of US Election, Trump Seeks to End Military Aggression Against Iran

US President Donald Trump is reportedly seeking an exit from the conflict with Iran to avoid prolonged military operations that could undermine the Republican Party's position in the upcoming midterm congressional elections. According to a Time magazine report citing sources, Trump aims to declare victory and halt hostilities before political damage becomes irreversible, amid concerns over information leaks that led him to cancel an operation at the last minute. The midterm elections for both houses of Congress are scheduled for 3 November, with Republicans currently holding majorities in the Senate and House of Representatives.

KPK Denies Procedural Violations in Search of Ono Surono's Home: Witnesses and Family Present

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has firmly denied allegations of procedural lapses during the search of Ono Surono's residence, asserting that the operation was conducted transparently with witnesses from the local community and family members present. The search, linked to an ongoing bribery investigation involving a project in Bekasi district, yielded crucial evidence including documents and cash worth hundreds of millions of rupiah. KPK emphasised the cooperative atmosphere and dismissed claims of CCTV tampering, noting that the family deactivated the cameras themselves, as the agency continues to probe potential involvement of other parties in the case implicating three main suspects.

Junta Leader Min Aung Hlaing Becomes Myanmar's New President

Myanmar's junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, has been elected as the country's new president by a dominant parliamentary vote, five years after his coup against the elected government. This move is seen as an effort to consolidate his power, gain international legitimacy, and transition to a civilian role while protecting military interests amid ongoing civil war and accusations of atrocities. Resistance groups have formed a new united front against the regime, facing potential intensified military pressure and economic challenges.

KPK Confirms Bribery Findings in Import Case with Cigarette Businessmen

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is summoning several cigarette businessmen to confirm evidence in an alleged bribery case involving imports at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Investigators have seized Rp5 billion in cash from safe houses and have named six suspects, including customs officials and representatives from PT Blueray, accused of facilitating the importation of counterfeit goods. This case highlights ongoing corruption issues within Indonesia's customs authority, with KPK urging non-cooperative witnesses to comply with summonses to aid the investigation.

Waqf Certification Must Level Up, from Legality and Competence to Real Impact

Indonesia has made significant strides in waqf certification, with national cash waqf accumulating to Rp 3.54 trillion by November 2025 and over 6,945 certified nazhir, supported by comprehensive competency standards. However, the author argues that these advancements risk becoming mere administrative formalities unless certification is repositioned to drive tangible productivity and societal benefits, emphasizing the need for an impact-based approach that measures success through asset value growth and beneficiary outcomes. This shift is crucial to transform waqf from a static asset into a dynamic instrument for sustainable welfare in the Islamic economy.

DJP of Ministry of Finance Waives Late Penalties for Personal Tax Return Reporting

The Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) under the Ministry of Finance has eliminated administrative penalties, including fines and interest, for individual taxpayers who submit their 2025 annual tax returns (SPT) late between 31 March and 30 April 2026. This policy, outlined in Announcement No. PENG-28/PJ.09/2026, also applies to late payments of Article 29 income tax for the same tax year and is implemented by not issuing tax bills or revoking existing ones. As of 1 April 2026, over 10.6 million SPTs have already been reported, highlighting strong initial compliance amid the extended grace period.

IKN Becomes a Lebaran Tourist Destination, Hundreds of Thousands Visit

During the 2026 Eid al-Fitr holiday from 18 to 29 March, the Nusantara Capital (IKN) attracted 352,102 visitors and 80,105 vehicles, highlighting its growing appeal as a tourist spot amid ongoing development. Key attractions included the State Palace and State Mosque, praised for their modern architecture, as well as glamping areas, public plazas like Plaza Seremoni and Plaza Bhinneka, and the Sentra Massa information centre with educational facilities. The IKN Authority commended the smooth operations and contributions from various stakeholders, viewing the influx as an opportunity to showcase the new capital's progress and public amenities.

Singapore forms crisis committee amid energy supply disruptions

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has established a Domestic Crisis Ministerial Committee to coordinate the national response to energy supply disruptions caused by the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The committee, chaired by Minister for National Security Coordination K Shanmugam and advised by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, is updating contingency plans to address the unprecedented situation. The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has severely impacted oil and LNG exports from Gulf countries, driving up global energy prices and posing long-term severe consequences if restrictions persist.

Funeral Preparations for Sergeant Muhammad Ichwan at Magelang Heroes' Cemetery 100% Complete

The funeral preparations for Indonesian peacekeeper Sergeant Muhammad Nur Ichwan, who was killed during a UN mission in Lebanon, have reached full readiness at the Heroes' Cemetery in Giri Dharmoloyo, Magelang, following a decision to honour his service by relocating the site from a public cemetery. The ceremony, scheduled after the arrival of his remains at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport on Saturday, will include full military honours, reflecting the nation's appreciation for his dedication and sacrifice in the UNIFIL contingent. This event underscores Indonesia's commitment to international peacekeeping efforts amid ongoing calls for a UN investigation into the attack that claimed his life and those of two fellow soldiers.

PGN's Chief Commissioner Uses BBG in Personal Vehicle, Boosting National Energy Resilience

PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (PGN)'s Chief Commissioner, Tony Setia Boedi Hoesodo, has installed a compressed natural gas (CNG) converter kit in his personal vehicle to exemplify the benefits of dual-fuel systems that switch between petrol and CNG, promoting cost savings, extended range, and environmental friendliness. Priced at Rp4,500 per litre, CNG offers stable and affordable energy, aligning with PGN's efforts through subsidiary PT Gagas Energi Indonesia to enhance national energy security and independence. This initiative, supported by partnerships with the Komogas community, includes mobile workshops and public education on CNG safety and efficiency, fostering wider adoption of alternative fuels in Indonesia.

Pertamina Collaborates with SK Group, ExxonMobil, and Posco

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi has signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with South Korea's SK Group (including SK Innovation and SK Earthon), ExxonMobil, and Posco International during the Indonesia-Korea Business Forum in Seoul, aimed at strengthening upstream oil and gas portfolios, expanding technological collaborations, and advancing decarbonisation solutions such as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) to support energy transition agendas. These partnerships explore opportunities in asset development, operational enhancements, cross-border CCS initiatives leveraging Indonesia's storage capacity and Korea's industrial decarbonisation needs, and joint technology development through knowledge sharing and feasibility studies. The agreements underscore Pertamina's commitment to global partnerships for sustainable growth, ESG principles, and anti-bribery measures, with the MoU with Posco extended until 2028 as a non-binding framework for further discussions.

Video: Investment Strategies as War Heats Up and Inflation Threatens to Rise

In the midst of escalating Middle East conflicts and a weakening Rupiah due to foreign capital outflows from the bond market, Investment Director at Sucor Asset Management, Dimas Yusuf, discusses strategies for managing investments. Market players are closely monitoring global and domestic developments, noting that Indonesia's financial market valuations remain highly attractive. The full insights are featured in a CNBC Indonesia dialogue on handling wartime volatility.

Ensure Sufficient Balance: Details of Tolls for 3 Ramp Junctions in Palembang

PT Hutama Karya has urged road users to ensure their electronic money balances are sufficient ahead of the integrated toll implementation at Junction Palembang, operational from Friday, 3 April 2026. This follows the opening of three new ramps—Ramp 5 (Betung–Indralaya), Ramp 6 (Betung–Palembang), and Ramp 8 (Palembang–Kayu Agung)—enabling more efficient travel without exiting the toll road, as per Ministerial Decree Number 167/KPTS/M/2026. The integration enhances connectivity in the Palembang region, with tolls charged based on the route taken, and further ramps to open alongside the Palembang–Betung toll.

Overpaid Annual Tax Returns Not Always Refundable: New DJP Rules

Indonesia's Directorate General of Taxes (DJP) has issued new regulations clarifying that not all overpayments indicated in Annual Tax Returns (SPT) qualify for refunds, particularly those arising from technical rounding differences or government-borne income tax schemes (PPh DTP). The rules, outlined in PER-03/PJ/2026, also address common taxpayer errors in reporting that lead to apparent overpayments, such as mismatches in income credits and final taxes, ensuring that only genuine excesses are eligible for restitution. This measure aims to streamline tax administration and prevent unwarranted refund claims, especially for public servants whose incomes are funded by state budgets.

Repatriation of Three Indonesian Peacekeepers' Remains from Lebanon in the First Week of April

The Indonesian government is coordinating with the United Nations to repatriate the remains of three fallen peacekeepers—Captain Infantry Zulmi Aditya Iskandar, Staff Sergeant Muhammad Nur, and Private Farizal Rhomadhon—who died in Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon on 29 and 30 March 2026. A farewell ceremony was held on 2 April 2026 at Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport, led by the UNIFIL Force Commander, amid challenges posed by ongoing conflict that complicates safe and swift transport. This repatriation underscores Indonesia's commitment to global peacekeeping as enshrined in the Preamble of the 1945 Constitution and provides closure to the bereaved families.

Ono Surono's House Raided, Request to Disable CCTV Questioned

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) raided the home of West Java DPRD Deputy Chairman Ono Surono in Bandung and Indramayu, prompting criticism from community leader Eka Santosa over procedural lapses, including a request to disable CCTV cameras without a court warrant. Santosa expressed concern that such actions undermine the integrity of law enforcement and could foster perceptions of political motivation, urging the KPK to adhere strictly to legal principles. The raid is part of an ongoing investigation stemming from a 2023 sting operation, highlighting tensions between anti-corruption efforts and public trust in institutional processes.

Din Syamsuddin: Beware of Buzzers Amid the Iran-US War

Former Muhammadiyah leader Din Syamsuddin has urged Indonesian Muslims to remain vigilant against buzzers and provocateurs who seek to exploit the Iran-US-Israel conflict by fomenting divisions between Sunni and Shia communities. During a meeting with Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, both emphasised the importance of Islamic unity, dismissing sectarian differences as colonial divide-and-rule tactics, and highlighted Iran's inclusive representation of various religious groups in its parliament. This call for solidarity comes as external forces, particularly Zionists, are accused of weakening the Muslim world by promoting disunity.

US Radar Worth 2.3 Trillion Rupiah Destroyed by Iranian Missile in Saudi Arabia

A key US AN/TPY-2 radar, valued at approximately Rp2.31 trillion and integral to the THAAD missile defence system, has been severely damaged by an Iranian missile strike at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, according to CNN citing satellite imagery. This incident follows Iran's retaliatory attacks on US military facilities across the Middle East after US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets on 28 February, escalating regional tensions. The damage underscores the vulnerability of US assets in the ongoing conflict, with potential implications for global energy markets amid threats to infrastructure.

Ministry of Hajj Prepares Strategy to Prevent Illegal Hajj Practices

Ahead of the 2026 Hajj season, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) is enhancing its efforts to curb illegal Hajj practices through strengthened inter-ministerial collaboration, including with the Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections. Key officials emphasise comprehensive supervision at central and regional levels, early detection in various areas, and the formation of joint teams to close loopholes such as visa misuse, which could lead to significant financial losses and risks for pilgrims. This strategic synergy aims to ensure that all Indonesian pilgrims depart through official channels, safeguarding their safety, legality, and comfort during the pilgrimage.

No Skills but Want to Work? Don't Be Surprised If There Are Plenty of Vacancies but You're Still Unemployed

The article highlights the growing skill gap in Indonesia's job market, where millions of opportunities exist but many fresh graduates lack practical skills and experience, relying solely on their degrees. It discusses how traditional university education focuses on theory, leaving students unprepared for industry demands, leading to high unemployment among the youth. Cyber University is presented as a solution with its innovative 3+1 program, combining three years of study with one year of internship, alongside a Career Center to bridge academia and employment, emphasising the need for relevant skills in the digital era.

Italy Says Impact of Iran's 'Oil Embargo' Will Be Very Long-Lasting

Governor of the Bank of Italy, Fabio Panetta, has warned that the global energy production recovery will take considerable time even after the Middle East conflict ends, due to the need to restore production capacities and reactivate supply chains. The ongoing tensions, including Iran's retaliatory actions following US and Israeli strikes, have caused a de facto blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting oil and LNG exports from the Persian Gulf and driving up fuel prices worldwide. Panetta emphasised the rising risks to energy infrastructure and the critical importance of securing key routes like the Strait of Hormuz to mitigate the prolonged shocks to global markets.

Perum Bulog ready to absorb entire corn production in Blora

Perum Bulog has pledged to purchase all corn production from Blora Regency in Central Java, supporting local farmers and ensuring national food stability for uses such as livestock feed and bioethanol. The commitment was announced during the Quarter I Corn Harvest and Quarter II Simultaneous Corn Planting event in Randublatung sub-district, where the director highlighted the significant national demand for corn in bioethanol production, estimated at 3.2 million tonnes. This initiative underscores Blora's growing potential in corn development, with Bulog acting as a reliable off-taker to secure market absorption for farmers' harvests.

DPR Member Claims Independent Legislative Candidates Contradict the 1945 Constitution

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR), Muhammad Khozin, has argued that allowing independent candidates for legislative positions violates the 1945 Constitution, which explicitly limits electoral participants for DPR and regional councils to political parties only. This stance comes amid a constitutional challenge filed by M Havidz Aima, who contends that current election laws restrict citizens' political participation and contradict the principle of popular sovereignty. The case, heard preliminarily at the Constitutional Court, seeks to open pathways for non-partisan candidacies to enhance democratic representation.

Jokowi Comments on Delay in Issuing SP3 for Rismon After Admitting Diploma

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has stated that the issuance of the SP3 (Letter of Order to Halt Investigation) for Rismon Hasiholan Sianipar, who admitted the authenticity of Jokowi's diploma and sought restorative justice, lies solely with the investigators at Polda Metro Jaya. Despite forgiving Rismon personally during their meeting in Solo on 12 March, Jokowi emphasised that he has no authority over the legal process, which his legal team is handling. This delay contrasts with quicker resolutions for similar cases involving Eggi Sudjana and Damai Hari Lubis, highlighting procedural inconsistencies in restorative justice applications.

Hundreds of Houses Damaged Due to Earthquake in North Maluku

A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off the coast of Batang Dua in North Maluku on 2 April 2026, damaging at least 282 homes and nine places of worship, primarily in the Batang Dua sub-district near the epicentre. The Ternate city government has declared a post-earthquake emergency status and distributed essential humanitarian aid within five hours, deploying over 100 personnel and medical teams to six affected villages. This swift response highlights the local authorities' preparedness in managing natural disasters and supporting affected communities in a seismically active region.

Dozens of Housewives Trained to Earn Their Own Income

The Yayasan Indonesia Setara (YIS), founded by Sandiaga Uno, has partnered with Skies Indonesia to empower housewives through a training programme that equips 49 participants with skills to produce and sell dimsum mentai and Thai desserts. The initiative not only teaches practical culinary techniques using affordable and adaptable ingredients but also integrates artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT for creating online sales content, enabling immediate preorders and income generation. This effort aligns with YIS's 15-year vision of gender equality in employment, allowing women to support their family economies independently.

Task Force PRR Accelerates Utilisation of Driftwood as a Post-Disaster Recovery Strategy in Affected Regions

The Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) is expediting the use of driftwood from floods in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra to support post-disaster recovery efforts, including building temporary housing and industrial materials. Significant volumes of wood have already been utilised or allocated in these provinces, with policies enabling local governments to incorporate it into reconstruction projects and even generate regional revenue from smaller pieces. This initiative has substantially reduced wood accumulations, addressing up to 99% in some areas and aiding overall rehabilitation.

Indonesian Beaches Often Become 'Graves' for Whales, UGM Expert Reveals Danger Alarm

Dozens of pilot whales washed ashore in East Nusa Tenggara, with 21 found dead, prompting concerns from a Universitas Gadjah Mada biologist about ecological disruptions in Indonesian waters. The expert highlights recurring strandings as indicators of environmental threats, including noise pollution from shipping and oil exploration, water contamination, and habitat interference along migration routes. Protected under full conservation status, these events underscore the urgent need for nekropsies to pinpoint causes and strengthen marine regulations to safeguard marine life.

Turkey Designs 5 New Routes to Bypass Strait of Hormuz

Turkey has developed five alternative routes for oil and gas supplies to circumvent the Strait of Hormuz amid an ongoing Middle East crisis, including paths through Iraq and Syria, the Suez-Red Sea corridor, options involving Oman, and longer routes across Africa. This diversification aims to mitigate risks of supply disruptions following escalations such as US and Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliations that have led to a de facto blockade of the vital strait, through which 20 million barrels of oil pass daily. The measures come as global energy prices rise and tensions intensify, with Turkey also signalling potential interventions in northern Iraq.

Good Friday and Friday Prayers Coexist at Puja Mandala

At the Puja Mandala worship centre in Nusa Dua, Bali, Friday prayers at the Masjid Agung Ibnu Batutah and Good Friday mass at the adjacent Catholic Church of Mary Mother of All Nations proceeded smoothly on 3 April 2026, thanks to coordinated parking and scheduling efforts. Organisers from both communities ensured no overcrowding or traffic disruptions, with Muslim worshippers encouraged to leave promptly to accommodate Catholic attendees. This event exemplifies the strong interfaith tolerance and cooperation upheld at the multi-religious complex.

Trump Seeks to End War with Iran Ahead of Congressional Elections

US President Donald Trump is attempting to extricate himself from the conflict with Iran, fearing that prolonged military operations could undermine the Republican Party's position in the upcoming midterm congressional elections. According to a Time magazine report citing sources, Trump aims to declare victory and conclude hostilities before political damage becomes irreparable. The elections for both houses of Congress are scheduled for 3 November, with Republicans currently holding majorities in the Senate and House of Representatives.

Hafifah Bella Novitasari Weaves Dreams Through Education, Breaking Stigmas with Dedication

Hafifah Bella Novitasari, a senior trainer at Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, shares her inspiring journey from factory work in Cikarang to pursuing advanced education despite societal stigmas against women. At Universitas Nusa Mandiri, she honed analytical skills that enhanced her role in developing training modules for civil servants, challenging myths of bureaucratic laziness. Her story underscores the importance of higher education for women as foundational educators and her efforts in promoting digital literacy in her community, highlighting education's role in national progress.

Parliament Criticises Measles Surge Due to Low Vaccination Rates

Members of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission IX have criticised the government's handling of a measles outbreak in early 2026, attributing the surge to low vaccination coverage and delayed mitigation efforts. With over 21,000 suspected cases reported by March 2026, including 85 outbreaks across 14 provinces, lawmakers highlight the failure to achieve the 95% immunisation target, exacerbated by incomplete vaccinations for around 1.7 million infants between 2019 and 2021. They urge a comprehensive overhaul of prevention strategies, including accelerated vaccinations, community-based efforts, public education to counter vaccine hesitancy, and consistent policy enforcement to prevent future recurrences.

Bantul Regent: Jogja Financial Festival to Boost Financial Literacy Among Young Generation

The Regent of Bantul, Abdul Halim Muslih, has warmly welcomed the planned Jogja Financial Festival 2026, scheduled for 22-24 May, viewing it as a vital opportunity to enhance financial literacy and entrepreneurial spirit among millennials and Generation Z. He emphasised the need for young people to adapt to evolving financial paradigms and highlighted the inspirational presence of prominent figures like Chairul Tanjung as a key draw. Set in Yogyakarta, a hub for youth and universities, the event is expected to spark a renaissance in entrepreneurship across Indonesia.

Yogyakarta's WFH Policy Cannot Be Implemented Haphazardly

The Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY) government has emphasised that the new Work From Home (WFH) policy for civil servants, outlined in Ministerial Circular No. 3 of 2026 from the Ministry of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform, must be carefully planned to ensure uninterrupted public services. Secretary Ni Made Dwipanti Indrayanti stated that implementation will vary by department, prioritising sectors requiring physical presence, such as civil registry and counselling, while avoiding a rigid approach. The policy, effective from 1 April 2026, mandates four office days and one WFH day per week, with full rollout expected next week after thorough preparation.

Prabowo Returns to Indonesia, Secures Rp 575 Trillion Investment Commitments from Japan and South Korea

President Prabowo Subianto has returned to Indonesia after official visits to Japan and South Korea, where he secured business commitments totalling Rp 575 trillion (approximately US$33.89 billion) to bolster strategic partnerships in key sectors such as investment, energy, and digital economy. In Japan, he met with the Emperor and Prime Minister, and attended a business forum yielding Rp 401.7 trillion in pledges, while in South Korea, bilateral talks with President Lee Jae Myung resulted in 10 MoUs and Rp 174 trillion in commitments focused on economic, digital, and future industries. These engagements underscore Indonesia's efforts to enhance bilateral ties and drive long-term economic cooperation.

Central Java Police Uncover Subsidised LPG Mixing Case, Two Suspects Arrested

Central Java Police have dismantled an illegal operation in Karanganyar where two suspects were injecting subsidised 3kg LPG cylinders into larger 12kg and 50kg non-subsidised ones, defrauding the system meant to benefit the public. The suspects, identified by initials N and NA, reportedly earned up to Rp 35 million daily and over Rp 1 billion in six months from the scheme. Authorities seized 820 gas cylinders and related equipment, with the perpetrators facing up to six years in prison and fines of Rp 500 million, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb fuel subsidy abuses.

Landslides, Floods, and Strong Winds Strike Several Areas in West Java

Heavy rains over the past week have triggered landslides, floods, and strong winds in various parts of West Java, affecting districts such as Bandung, Sumedang, and Bogor, with no reported fatalities but disruptions to roads and evacuations. Local authorities, including BPBD teams, are providing logistical aid and urging residents to remain vigilant against extreme weather. Additionally, some regional governments are considering work-from-home policies for civil servants to mitigate potential impacts, while other snippets mention unrelated anti-corruption actions and commodity price drops.

Turkey designs five alternative routes to bypass Strait of Hormuz

Turkey has developed five alternative supply routes for oil and gas to circumvent the Strait of Hormuz amid a prolonged Middle East crisis, including paths through Iraq and Syria, the Suez-Red Sea corridor, options involving Oman, and longer routes across Africa. This diversification aims to mitigate risks of supply disruptions following escalations such as US and Israeli strikes on Iranian targets and Iran's retaliatory attacks, which have led to a de facto blockade of the vital energy shipping lane and driven up global energy prices. The move underscores Turkey's strategic efforts to secure energy supplies in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.

Indonesian Celebrity Pair Interrogated Over Dana Syariah Scandal

Indonesian police have interrogated actors Dude Herlino and Alyssa Soebandono regarding their roles as brand ambassadors for Dana Syariah Indonesia (DSI), a peer-to-peer lending platform embroiled in an alleged Rp 1.4 trillion ($83 million) embezzlement scandal. The couple, who promoted DSI's Sharia-based investments for three years, denied any involvement in the wrongdoing, stating their duties were limited to promotional activities. The investigation follows complaints from lenders whose funds deposited between 2018 and 2025 were not returned, leading to the freezing of DSI's assets and the naming of its president director as a fraud suspect; this case underscores regulatory challenges in Indonesia's fintech sector.

Deported from Bali After Attempting to Flee to Malaysia, Foreigner Jumps into Sea on Motorbike!

A 31-year-old Belgian man, SD, has been deported from Bali following a viral stunt where he jumped off a cliff at Balangan Beach on a rented motorbike, claiming it was a hobby. After damaging the bike and refusing to pay for repairs, he fled to Sorong and attempted to reach Malaysia but was intercepted in Makassar and returned to Bali. Immigration authorities enforced deportation under immigration laws for endangering public safety, emphasising zero tolerance for visa violators evading legal processes.

Russia: Congress will not allow the US to leave NATO

Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, has stated that the US Congress would prevent any withdrawal from NATO, dismissing President Donald Trump's recent threats as mere bluffing. He argued there are no genuine reasons for the US to exit the alliance and suggested Trump might take symbolic steps like reducing troop contingents to assert his position. Medvedev also noted that US and Israeli aggression towards Iran is exacerbating internal divisions within NATO, prompting some European politicians to consider establishing a fully independent EU military component.

NTT Housing Programme Accelerated, Targeting 5,000 Units by 2026

The East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Governor, Emanuel Melkiades Laka Lena, has announced the central government's commitment to accelerating housing development in the province, following a meeting with the Minister of Housing and Settlement Areas, Maruarar Sirait. Key initiatives include expanding the home renovation programme from 436 units in 2025 to 5,000 units in 2026, alongside the Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) housing scheme offering 5% interest subsidies over 30 years to support low-income groups such as civil servants, military personnel, teachers, fishermen, farmers, and SMEs. This integrated approach combines housing improvements with economic empowerment to effectively address poverty in NTT, earning appreciation from local authorities for President Prabowo Subianto's focus on the region's underprivileged communities.

Contraflow on Japek Toll Road Discontinued

The contraflow traffic arrangement on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road (Japek) from Km 47 to Km 66 in the Cikampek direction has been halted as traffic conditions have normalised. Implemented at 09:18 WIB and discontinued at 13:27 WIB following intensive monitoring, the measure was a discretionary decision by the police in collaboration with PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol. The company urges drivers to prioritise safety, maintain safe distances, obey signs and instructions, and ensure vehicles are in optimal condition with sufficient electronic money balances before travelling.

US Army General and Attorney General Sacked as Trump Cleans House

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed Army Chief of Staff General Randy George and several other high-ranking military officials amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, as part of a broader purge initiated by President Donald Trump. On the same day, Trump fired Attorney General Pam Bondi for failing to address the Jeffrey Epstein case and pursue his political adversaries, appointing former lawyer Todd Blanche as acting Attorney General. This shake-up signals Trump's intent to reshape key leadership positions, with potential plans to elevate EPA head Lee Zeldin to the Attorney General role, reflecting shifts in US policy stances such as on climate change.

Bakrie Sumatera Plantations Records Operating Profit of Rp 388 Billion

PT Bakrie Sumatera Plantations Tbk (UNSP) has reported a robust financial performance for 2025, with sales rising 10% to Rp 2.56 trillion, gross profit increasing 25% to Rp 757 billion, and operating profit surging 86% to Rp 388 billion, driven primarily by palm oil and rubber commodities amid higher global CPO prices. The company is enhancing productivity through superior seed replanting and optimising mill operations by sourcing from smallholder farmers, while adhering to sustainable practices under the Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) protocol, including zero-burning policies and innovations that could boost national palm oil yields from 3 to 10 tons of CPO per hectare annually. This performance underscores the sector's resilience and the importance of sustainability in Indonesia's agriculture-driven economy.

Solok Regency Receives Suspension Bridge Aid from PERADI

The National Leadership Council of the Indonesian Advocates Association (PERADI) has provided assistance for the construction of a suspension bridge in Balai Panjang, Nagari Saniang Baka, X Koto Singkarak District, Solok Regency, West Sumatra, to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth. Solok Regent Jon Firman Pandu expressed gratitude for the Rp600 million aid, handed over by Deputy Coordinating Minister Otto Hasibuan, emphasising its vital role in facilitating economic, educational, and social activities. This initiative underscores PERADI's commitment to social contributions beyond legal services, aiming for equitable and sustainable development in remote areas.

Hajj Quota Case: KPK to Marathon Examine Travel Bureaus Next Week

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) is set to conduct intensive examinations of several travel bureaus next week as part of the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in the 2023-2024 Hajj quota allocation, which has implicated former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas. The probe has recently named two additional suspects: Ismail Adham, Operational Director of PT Makassar Toraja, and Asrul Azis Taba, Commissioner of PT Raudah Eksati Utama and Chairman of the Kesthuri Association, accused of bribing intermediaries to secure extra Hajj slots. This case underscores persistent issues of graft in religious pilgrimage management, potentially leading to further revelations about high-level involvement in quota manipulations.