Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 April 2026

Showing 301-350 of 874 articles

733 IPDN Cadets Deployed to Aceh Tamiang, from Royal Tombs to Residents' Homes as Cleaning Targets

The Task Force for Accelerating Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (Satgas PRR) Post-Sumatra Disaster has deployed 733 IPDN cadets in its third wave to Aceh Tamiang since 30 March 2026, focusing on humanitarian efforts to aid flood recovery in the severely impacted Aceh province. The cadets will spend a month cleaning public facilities, including roads, drainage, royal tombs, sports facilities, and residents' homes in several villages, marking what may be the final phase of direct government involvement in community-level restoration. Overall, 2,279 cadets have been mobilised across three waves since January 2026, significantly improving governmental operations and public services while addressing remaining cleanup needs in schools, offices, and public spaces, underscoring the state's commitment to normalising life for flood-affected communities.

Second Lieutenant Alwi Al Hadad: From Repeated Failures to the TNI's Cyber Defence Fortress

Second Lieutenant Alwi Al Hadad's journey from repeated failures in joining the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) to becoming the first officer in charge of the Data Protection Unit in TNI's Cyber Command exemplifies resilience and self-driven learning in cybersecurity. Overcoming academic and physical challenges through online resources, university support, and rigorous military training, he topped a competitive selection process among 3,000 applicants, securing his role in safeguarding military data systems. His story underscores the value of individual skills over institutional prestige and highlights his ongoing contributions to cyber awareness and education at his alma mater.

Lebaran Betawi 2026 to be Held at Lapangan Banteng on 10-12 April

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government will host the 18th Lebaran Betawi event at Lapangan Banteng in Central Jakarta from 10 to 12 April 2026, serving as a major halal bihalal gathering following Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah and celebrating Betawi cultural traditions. Despite global concerns and budget efficiencies leading to some reductions, the event will maintain a dignified atmosphere, featuring traditional performances, Betawi cuisine, and social activities such as aid distributions at the historic site. This annual cultural agenda aims to strengthen local Betawi heritage, with public invitation to participate and enliven the occasion.

Disnakertrans: PT SBI fined Rp330 million for employing illegal foreign workers

The Riau Islands Provincial Employment and Transmigration Office (Disnakertrans Kepri) has imposed an administrative fine of Rp330 million on PT Shanghai Baoye Indonesia (PT SBI) for employing illegal foreign workers at a power plant construction project in Batam. The enforcement action followed a surprise inspection in March 2026, revealing workers without the mandatory RPTKA permits as required by Government Regulation No. 34 of 2021. This case underscores Indonesia's strict regulations on foreign labour, including potential deportation and blacklisting for violators, alongside requirements for knowledge transfer to local workers and learning the Indonesian language.

Iran Claims to Have Successfully Shot Down US F-35

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Friday to have shot down a US F-35 fighter jet in central Iran, marking the second such assertion since the escalation of conflict on 28 February, though the US has not responded and previously denied a similar claim. The incident occurs amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following US and Israeli airstrikes that killed over 1,340 people, including Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, prompting Iranian retaliatory drone and missile attacks that disrupted global markets and aviation. This development underscores the intensifying regional conflict, with Iran also threatening US tech firms and confirming the death of a key IRGC commander.

Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing elected president by pro-military parliament

Myanmar's junta chief Min Aung Hlaing has been elected president by a pro-military parliament, solidifying his control over the country five years after his coup against the elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. This move follows a disputed election won by an army-backed party and comes amid ongoing civil war, human rights accusations, and international condemnation, including an ICC arrest warrant request for alleged crimes against the Rohingya. Analysts view the election as an effort to legitimise military rule under a civilian facade, potentially intensifying challenges for opposition groups fighting the dictatorship.

Myanmar’s parliament elects ruling general as president

Myanmar's parliament has elected General Min Aung Hlaing, who led the 2021 military coup against Aung San Suu Kyi's government, as the country's new president in a vote dominated by military-backed lawmakers. This move is seen as a superficial return to civilian rule amid ongoing civil war, with the opposition National Unity Government rejecting it as illegitimate and vowing to continue their struggle. The election, held under military control, aims to mend ties with some Southeast Asian neighbours while the junta faces international scrutiny, including ICC investigations into war crimes and Rohingya persecution.

Long-Distance Train Occupancy Reaches 118 Percent During 2026 Eid Transport Period

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reported an extraordinary occupancy rate of 118.9 percent for long-distance trains during the 2026 Eid transport period from 11 March to 1 April, serving 4.246 million passengers against a capacity of 3.572 million seats, reflecting high public mobility during the holiday exodus. Overall, KAI handled 5.087 million passengers across long-distance and local services, an 8.07 percent increase from the previous year, with operational punctuality remaining strong at nearly 99 percent for departures. The company also supported government initiatives like the free motorcycle repatriation programme, underscoring its role in facilitating reliable and expanded transport capacity for national holidays.

Foreign National as Perpetrator: Forestry Gakkum Foils Smuggling of 202 Protected Animals to Dubai

Indonesia's Ministry of Forestry's Law Enforcement Unit (Gakkum) in Kalimantan successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle 202 protected reptiles to Dubai, arresting a Russian national identified as OS at Soekarno-Hatta Airport. The smuggled animals included one python, 89 ball pythons, and 104 live iguanas along with eight dead ones, all lacking legal documentation, highlighting an organised cross-border wildlife trade network. This case underscores the ongoing threat to Indonesia's biodiversity and the government's commitment to stringent enforcement and international cooperation to protect endangered species.

Bitcoin Briefly Corrects Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty: What Lies Ahead?

Bitcoin's price has corrected from around $68,000 to $66,000 following US President Donald Trump's statements that failed to provide certainty on de-escalating the conflict with Iran, amid rising geopolitical tensions. Analysts from Tokocrypto note that the market is adopting a defensive stance, with indicators showing selling pressure and reduced trader aggression, exacerbated by surging oil prices, a stronger US dollar, and higher bond yields. Despite the correction, there remains potential for Bitcoin's strengthening trend to continue through the end of the year, though it highlights the fragility of current market sentiment.

South Korea and France Agree to Secure Shipping Routes in the Strait of Hormuz

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and French President Emmanuel Macron held a summit in Seoul, pledging to collaborate on securing safe maritime routes through the Strait of Hormuz amid Middle East tensions, while addressing global economic and energy crises. The leaders agreed to boost bilateral trade to $20 billion annually by 2030 and signed deals to enhance cooperation in advanced sectors like AI, semiconductors, and quantum technology, as well as energy projects including nuclear and offshore wind. They also reaffirmed commitments to peace on the Korean Peninsula and expanded ties in defence, space, and culture.

Residents in Mereudu Collaborate with Government in Post-Disaster Recovery Efforts

In Dusun Pante Geulima, Desa Meunasah Lhok, Mereudu subdistrict, Pidie Jaya regency, residents are demonstrating a strong spirit of mutual cooperation alongside government agencies to accelerate environmental recovery following a disaster. Through collaborative clean-up initiatives facilitated by the local Disaster Management Agency and supported by donations from expatriate villagers, the community is not only restoring infrastructure but also gaining economic benefits via daily wages. This synergy highlights the vital role of community participation in Indonesia's post-disaster rehabilitation, fostering optimism for a swift return to normalcy.

Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Strengthens Collaboration to Prevent Illegal Hajj Practices

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is enhancing inter-ministerial collaboration, particularly with the Coordinating Ministry for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections, to curb illegal Hajj practices ahead of pilgrimages to the Holy Land. This includes comprehensive oversight at central and regional levels, early detection measures, and airport monitoring to prevent fraud and visa misuse, which could otherwise lead to billions in illicit payments. Illegal pilgrims risk fines or long-term travel bans, underscoring the ministry's commitment to a safe and orderly 2026 Hajj.

KPK Targets HS Cigarette Boss Who Skips Summons

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has targeted Muhammad Suryo, the founder of Surya Group Holding Company and boss of the HS cigarette brand, after he failed to attend a scheduled examination as a witness in a bribery case at the Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC) under the Ministry of Finance. KPK spokesperson Budi Prasetyo emphasised the importance of Suryo's testimony in uncovering alleged illicit practices involving excise duties on cigarettes and alcoholic beverages, including potential collusion between customs officials and illegal tobacco and liquor companies. This investigation builds on a prior bribery case related to imports, where six suspects—including customs officials and representatives from PT Blueray—have been named, with evidence worth Rp40.5 billion seized.

Jogja Financial Festival 2026: LPS Promotes Financial Literacy Among the Public

The Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) is participating in the Jogja Financial Festival 2026 to boost public financial literacy and promote safe financial management practices. Scheduled for 22-24 May 2026 at Jogja Expo Center and Universitas Gadjah Mada campus, the event features financial expos, talkshows, entertainment, job fairs, and a run, with key figures including CT Corp Chairman Chairul Tanjung inspecting the venue. This marks LPS's second involvement in such festivals, selected for Yogyakarta's role as an educational hub to rapidly disseminate financial knowledge and help the public avoid risks like financial scams.

Impact of Flooding in Demak Expands to Six Villages

Flooding in Demak Regency, Central Java, triggered by a breached embankment and overflow from the Tuntang River due to heavy rainfall, has now affected six villages across three districts, up from initial reports. In Guntur District, four villages are impacted with ongoing assessments revealing four houses collapsed in Trimulyo Village near the breach site, while Ploso Village in Karangtengah District reports 150 houses and two places of worship affected, impacting 600 people. Local authorities, including the BPBD, are coordinating evacuations, providing emergency measures like sandbags, and setting up shelters, highlighting vulnerabilities in regional flood infrastructure amid climate pressures.

Revenue Surpasses Rp9 Trillion, This Under-the-Radar Strategy Becomes the Key to Its Success

PT Asuransi Tugu Pratama Indonesia Tbk (Tugu Insurance) reported a strong performance in 2025, with attributable profit rising to Rp711.06 billion from Rp401.57 billion the previous year, despite the implementation of PSAK 117 accounting standards. Insurance service revenue grew 22.12% to Rp9.11 trillion, driven by optimised portfolios in fire & property, offshore, and aviation lines, while investment results reached Rp717.36 billion. The company's robust balance sheet, with assets at Rp27.71 trillion and a Risk Based Capital ratio of 410.9%, underscores its financial health and commitment to sustainable growth amid industry dynamics.

Petrol Prices Rise Twice in a Month, Filling Stations in This Country Crowded Like a Market

Pakistan's government has raised diesel and petrol prices for the second time in less than a month, with diesel increasing by 54.9% to approximately Rp 31,952 per litre and petrol by 42.7% to Rp 27,868 per litre, driven by global oil price surges from the US-Iran conflict. The decision, announced by the Oil Minister, ends recent subsidies deemed unaffordable, sparking public discontent over the burden on the poor amid potential inflationary pressures. As a major importer of oil via the Strait of Hormuz, Pakistan faces significant economic challenges from these geopolitical tensions.

This is How the Government Monitors Civil Servants Exploiting WFH Policy as 'Long Weekends'

The Indonesian government is implementing strict monitoring measures, including geo-location tracking on mobile phones, to ensure that civil servants (ASN) adhere to the new work-from-home (WFH) policy on Fridays without turning it into an extended weekend. This policy, aligned with energy-saving initiatives and cultural transformation in the workplace, excludes essential public services such as emergency response, public order, health, education, and local administrative roles like district heads and village heads, who must continue working from the office. An evaluation of the policy's effectiveness is scheduled within the next two months, with monthly reports required from regional governments to assess impacts on productivity and efficiency.

Flight Failure Leads to Dozens of Super Air Jet Passengers Reporting Airline to Babel Police

Dozens of passengers, including a group of 29 students, reported Super Air Jet to the Bangka Belitung Regional Police after being denied boarding despite having boarding passes and being in the departure queue, citing suspected violations of consumer protection laws. The police have confirmed the report and are initiating preliminary investigations by questioning the complainants, with plans to summon airline representatives soon. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about airline practices and the enforcement of passenger rights in Indonesia.

11 Illegal Oil Wells in Muba Catch Fire, South Sumatra Police Hunt Owners

Eleven illegal oil wells in the PT Hindoli area, Keluang District, Musi Banyuasin, South Sumatra, caught fire following an explosion on 31 March 2026, also destroying eight pickup trucks, one lorry, and several motorcycles. South Sumatra Police are actively pursuing the owners, identified as individuals with initials M, R, K, and I, while continuing investigations and searches for additional illegal sites. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges with illegal oil extraction in the region, prompting a joint operation by specialised police units.

YESIST12 2026 Launched! UNM Invites Indonesia's Young Generation to Showcase Innovations on the Global Stage

The Youth Entrepreneurship and Smart Innovation Summit & Technology (YESIST12) 2026 has opened registrations for Indonesian students and young professionals to present creative ideas and innovative solutions internationally. Hosted by Universitas Nusa Mandiri (UNM), the competition features various tracks such as Innovation Challenge and MakerFair, with national selections leading to a global event in April 2026, offering cash prizes up to $1,000 USD and networking opportunities. UNM Rector Prof Dr Dwiza Riana emphasised the event's role in empowering young innovators to address global challenges and compete on the world stage.

Oil Prices Surge Over Rp100,000 Following Trump's Threat to Strike Iran in the Near Future

Global oil prices have skyrocketed following US President Donald Trump's renewed threats to launch military strikes against Iran within the next few weeks, amid escalating tensions that have led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose by US$6.33 (6.3%) to US$107.49 per barrel, equivalent to approximately Rp1.82 million, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed US$5.28 (5.3%) to US$105.40 per barrel. This surge exacerbates the global energy crisis, disrupting a fifth of worldwide oil and LNG supplies, and raises fears of prolonged supply disruptions and further price hikes if the conflict intensifies without resolution.

Iran War Sparks Trump's Fury at NATO, Major Threat Looms!

US President Donald Trump has expressed deep frustration with NATO over its refusal to deploy ships to the Strait of Hormuz amid the Iran conflict, threatening to withdraw from the alliance and questioning its future role. This rhetoric has heightened concerns among European allies about the erosion of transatlantic security guarantees, with analysts describing it as the worst crisis for NATO since its founding. While legal barriers prevent unilateral withdrawal, Trump's stance as commander-in-chief could undermine the alliance's mutual defence commitments, potentially reshaping 80 years of post-World War II cooperation.

Iranian Ambassador Plans to Form Anti-War Alliance

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, has announced plans to establish an alliance or association aimed at opposing war against Iran and other nations, pending approval from the Iranian government, amid escalating tensions with the United States and Israel. He highlighted the global repercussions of the conflict, including impacts on Indonesia, and urged discernment between perpetrators and victims during a meeting with Indonesian Islamic leaders. Boroujerdi has engaged with prominent figures such as former President Joko Widodo and former Vice President Jusuf Kalla to express gratitude for condolences and discuss the latest developments in Iran, seeking support from Indonesian Muslims.

Prediction of Prolonged Dry Season, 410,000 Households in East Java Threatened by Drought

A prolonged dry season is forecasted to affect East Java this year, potentially impacting over 410,000 households across 222 sub-districts and 815 villages in 26 regencies, with Madura Island identified as the most vulnerable area. The East Java Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) is responding with massive clean water distribution and water tank provisions in critical locations, while also preparing for forest and land fires. Provincial authorities have pledged additional funding support if local budgets run low to address the water crisis and related risks.

Iranian Ambassador Frank in Meeting Megawati-Jokowi, Turns Out Carrying This Mission

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, has met with key Indonesian figures including former President Megawati Soekarnoputri, President Joko Widodo, and former Vice President Jusuf Kalla to express gratitude for their condolences amid escalating tensions with the United States. These visits also involved delivering updates on the situation in Iran, including the impacts of the ongoing conflict. Furthermore, the ambassador highlighted the meetings as a platform to promote an anti-war campaign, noting support from Indonesian Islamic organisations through prayers and solidarity.

KAI Serves 5.08 Million Passengers During Eid 2026, Up 8.07%

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reported serving 5,087,458 passengers on long-distance and local trains during the Eid 2026 travel period from 11 March to 1 April, marking an 8.07% increase from the previous year. The service achieved high occupancy rates of 118.9% for long-distance routes and 90.7% for local ones, with punctuality figures of 99.80% for departures and 98.86% for arrivals, demonstrating robust operational performance. This surge underscores the growing reliance on rail transport for Indonesia's mass mobility during peak holiday periods, supported by additional capacity measures and safety initiatives like the free motorcycle repatriation programme.

Cruise Ship Visits Surge, Komodo National Park Adjusts Tourist Quota Limits

The Komodo National Park Authority has separated the quota for cruise ship tourist visits from the regular annual limit of 365,000 visitors to accommodate the growing influx of cruise passengers. This adjustment accounts for the strict operational standards of cruise operators, including waste management, and limits visits to specific short-trek sites like Loh Liang and Loh Buaya, excluding areas like Pulau Padar due to navigation constraints. With an estimated 35,000 cruise visitors in 2026, total park attendance is projected to exceed the original quota, prompting the development of a new online booking system to manage separate streams.

Jasamarga halts contraflow on Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road on Good Friday afternoon

PT Jasamarga Transjawa Tol, in coordination with police, discontinued the contraflow traffic arrangement on the Jakarta-Cikampek Toll Road from kilometre 47 to 66 towards Cikampek at 1:27 PM on Good Friday, as traffic conditions normalised during the holiday period. The measure, implemented earlier at 9:18 AM to manage vehicle volume, was lifted following intensive field monitoring to ensure smooth flow and user comfort. Jasamarga urges motorists to prioritise safety, maintain safe distances, follow instructions, and ensure vehicles and e-money balances are adequate before travelling.

Government Pushes for Recovery of Human Rights Victims

The Indonesian government is accelerating the fulfilment of rights for victims of past serious human rights violations through a non-judicial approach, focusing on compensation, social security, and economic recovery to ensure swift and dignified restoration. This initiative was highlighted during a hearing with the DPR RI's Commission XIII, emphasising healthcare access and economic empowerment, while maintaining judicial options. Challenges such as data validity are being addressed through a national victim database targeted for completion by mid-2026, alongside enhanced coordination and local government involvement to prevent future violations and ensure effective aid delivery.

Eid 2026: KAI Serves Over 5 Million Passengers

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reported serving more than 5 million passengers during the Eid 2026 travel period from 11 March to 1 April, marking an 8.07% increase from the previous year, with long-distance trains achieving 118.9% occupancy. The company highlighted high punctuality rates of 99.80% for departures and 98.86% for arrivals, alongside additional services and support for the free motorcycle repatriation programme to enhance public safety. This success underscores growing public trust in rail transport and KAI's operational readiness to handle peak mobility demands in Indonesia.

Crypto Tax Revenue Nears Rp 2 Trillion, Is the Industry Becoming More 'Orderly'?

Tax revenue from cryptocurrency transactions in Indonesia has reached nearly Rp 2 trillion since May 2022, indicating a shift towards a more regulated and integrated industry within the national system. This surge, with Rp 1.09 trillion from income tax and Rp 875.31 billion from VAT, reflects growing compliance and structured growth in the sector, as highlighted by Tokocrypto's CFO. The government's commitment to enhanced oversight and industry collaborations aim to boost tax literacy and optimise state revenues, fostering a transparent crypto ecosystem.

BI records 914,000 QRIS merchants in Ciayumajakuning

Bank Indonesia's Cirebon office reports that the number of QRIS merchants in the Ciayumajakuning region reached 914,070 by February 2026, with an addition of 37,670 merchants in the first two months of the year. This growth highlights the accelerating adoption of digital payment systems among businesses across various economic sectors, particularly small enterprises which dominate transaction volumes at 49.28%. Overall, QRIS transactions in the period totalled 41.88 million with a value of Rp3.58 trillion, underscoring the expanding role of digital finance in regional economies.

US Military Shake-Up Continues as Three Generals Are Dismissed

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has dismissed Army Chief of Staff Randy George amid escalating tensions with Iran, sparking speculation about internal Pentagon dynamics. This move, part of a broader leadership overhaul, also saw the removal of two other military officials, David Hodne and William Green, with Vice Chief of Staff Christopher LaNeve stepping in temporarily. The dismissals signal significant uncertainty in US military leadership at a critical time of heightened geopolitical tensions, potentially affecting operations in the Middle East.

Russian Foreign National Named Suspect in Smuggling of 202 Protected Reptiles

Indonesian forestry authorities have thwarted an attempt by a Russian national to smuggle 202 protected reptiles out of the country, including one python, 89 ball pythons, and 104 iguanas, all lacking proper documentation. The suspect, identified as OS, has been handed over to prosecutors along with the evidence, highlighting an organised cross-border wildlife trade network exploiting regulatory gaps. This enforcement action underscores Indonesia's national strategy to protect biodiversity and deter illegal trafficking, reinforcing its role as a global leader in biological diversity conservation.

OJK, IDX, and KSEI Complete Four Transparency Reform Agendas for Indonesia's Capital Market

The Financial Services Authority (OJK), Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX), and Indonesian Central Securities Depository (KSEI) have successfully completed four key agendas to enhance transparency in Indonesia's capital market, including public disclosure of share ownership above 1%, implementation of high shareholding concentration announcements, refined investor classifications, and an increase in the minimum free float to 15%. These reforms, aligned with global standards and in some aspects surpassing them, form part of a broader action plan submitted to global index providers like MSCI to boost market integrity and investor confidence. The initiatives are expected to foster healthier liquidity, better price discovery, and elevate the attractiveness of Indonesia's capital market on the international stage.

Religious Affairs Minister Reminds Civil Servants: Public Services Remain Priority Despite Friday Work-from-Home

Indonesia's Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, has instructed civil servants in his ministry to maintain optimal public service quality even under the new Friday work-from-home policy, emphasising the use of technology and clear communication to ensure accessibility. The policy, outlined in a circular effective from 1 April 2026, applies to all ministry units and will undergo periodic evaluations, as mandated by the Minister of State Apparatus Utilization and Bureaucratic Reform, Rini Widyantini. Exemptions require senior officials and local leaders to report to offices, aiming to balance work flexibility with uninterrupted service delivery amid ongoing bureaucratic reforms.

Culture Minister Inaugurates Several Officials, Emphasises Clear and Measurable Work Programmes

Indonesian Culture Minister Fadli Zon has inaugurated a number of high-ranking officials, administrators, and supervisors within the Ministry of Culture, underscoring the need for clear, measurable work programmes amid budget efficiency challenges and heightened performance demands. He highlighted the reinforcement of four key cultural policy pillars—internalisation of educational values, cultural economy, culture as soft power diplomacy, and culture as a binding force for national unity—while advocating for transparency, digital transformation, and collaborative partnerships to advance national cultural development. Secretary General Bambang Wibawarta echoed the importance of alignment and coordination across the organisation to ensure effective implementation of cultural policies and measurable impacts on society, linking culture to economic progress.

UNAND Adopts ITB as Reference for Implementing PTNBH

Universitas Andalas (UNAND) in West Sumatra is drawing on the successful model of Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) to implement its status as a Public Service Agency University (PTNBH), focusing on adaptive and innovative institutional governance. UNAND's rector emphasised the need to learn from ITB's experience to achieve a strong transformation, enhancing its role in academic advancement and national development. Meanwhile, ITB's rector highlighted the university's evolving role in character-building through integrated learning experiences and strategic initiatives like fast-track programmes and research-focused culture to serve as a benchmark for other institutions.

2026 Dry Season Predicted to Be Drier, Hotspots Beginning to Appear in South Kalimantan

The 2026 dry season in South Kalimantan is forecasted to arrive earlier than usual in April-May and be drier than normal, raising concerns over potential droughts, water shortages, and forest and land fires. BMKG climatologist Klaus Johannes Apoh Damanik highlighted the need for local authorities to prepare mitigation measures, while BPBD head Roni Eka Saputra noted emerging hotspots and ongoing patrols in vulnerable peatland areas, including around Syamsudin Noor Airport. This early warning underscores the importance of proactive disaster management to safeguard the environment and economy in the region.

Alfons Manibui Supports Indonesia-South Korea Energy Diplomacy to Strengthen National Energy Resilience

Alfons Manibui, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission VII from the Golkar Party faction, has endorsed the government's efforts through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to bolster energy diplomacy with South Korea via the signing of three strategic memoranda of understanding in the energy sector. These collaborations focus on developing clean energy sources such as renewables, hydrogen, nuclear, and smart grids, alongside advancing Carbon Capture and Storage technologies and critical minerals essential for future industries. Manibui emphasised the importance of leveraging Indonesia's substantial nickel reserves to advance downstream processing, secure technology transfers, and enhance national energy security amid global geopolitical tensions.

Mounting Rubbish in Angke Rusun, West Jakarta, Originates from Convection Waste

A massive rubbish pile at the Angke rental flats in Tambora, West Jakarta, is primarily caused by industrial waste from convection businesses, accounting for 70% of the total volume according to DKI Environment Agency data, rather than household waste from residents. Local authorities, including the Tambora sub-district head, highlight the need for stricter oversight and special handling of this industrial residue to prevent overburdening community waste facilities, exacerbated by the scarcity of official temporary collection points. In response, officials plan to enhance monitoring with the Civil Service Police and the sub-district environmental office to address the uncontrolled dumping by outsiders.

East Java on Alert for 2026 Dry Season: Governor Instructs All Regional Heads to Strengthen Agricultural Mitigation

The East Java Provincial Government has issued instructions to all regional heads to implement strategic measures to mitigate the impact of the 2026 dry season on agricultural production, following a directive from the Minister of Agriculture. Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa emphasised the need for early action, including mapping vulnerable areas, optimising water resource management, and promoting drought-resistant crop varieties to ensure food security and support national self-sufficiency goals. These proactive steps aim to prevent disruptions to food production amid forecasts of heightened drought risks from April to August 2026.

Junta Leader Elected as Myanmar's President

Myanmar's junta leader, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, has been elected president by the country's parliament, securing 429 out of 584 votes in a three-way race dominated by pro-military lawmakers. This move follows the 2021 military coup that ousted the elected government, detained Aung San Suu Kyi, and sparked a protracted civil war resulting in tens of thousands of deaths. While the junta portrays the election as a return to civilian rule, analysts view it as a facade to legitimise ongoing military control, with Min Aung Hlaing set to assume the presidency after relinquishing his military command to a loyalist.

Uproar Over 30,000 Tonnes of Gold Discovered in Banten, Looted by Foreigners

The discovery of 30,000 tonnes of gold in Cikotok, Banten, in the early 20th century under Dutch colonial rule sparked massive exploitation that primarily benefited foreign powers, leaving local Indonesians with little gain. Initial geological surveys confirmed vast reserves, leading to the construction of 25 tunnels and extensive mining operations by NV Mijnbouw Maatschappij Zuid Bantam, yielding over 61,000 tonnes valued at billions of guilders. The mine's legacy continued post-independence through state-owned entities until depletion in 2005, highlighting Indonesia's historical challenges in resource sovereignty.

Palm Oil Prices Soar, Global Conflicts as Trigger

The price of crude palm oil (CPO) is projected to rise significantly in the second quarter of 2026, from US$1,165 per tonne in March to US$1,783 per tonne in June, driven by global energy dynamics and escalating geopolitical conflicts involving Iran, the US, and Israel. This surge positions palm oil as a strategic energy commodity beyond its traditional roles in food and industry, while domestic prices are expected to follow suit amid tighter supply and domestic policies like export levies. IPOSS emphasises the need for structural improvements in smallholder productivity and replanting programmes to ensure sustainable supply amid rising demand and external pressures.

Grobogan Floods Submerge Karangjati-Gubug Railway Line, Disrupting 8 Trips

Severe flooding in Grobogan Regency, Central Java, has inundated the railway line between Karangjati and Gubug stations, leading to operational disruptions for eight train services with delays of 10-15 minutes due to alternating single-track usage for safety. The floods, triggered by heavy rains causing river overflows, have also affected 12 villages across four sub-districts, submerging homes, roads, and 1,842 hectares of farmland, though no large-scale evacuations have occurred yet. Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely amid concerns over potential further rises in water levels.

Halal Bihalal Tradition Initiated by Indonesia's First President, Soekarno

The halal bihalal tradition, a post-Eid al-Fitr gathering for reconciliation and socialising, was initiated by President Soekarno in 1948 on the advice of KH Abdul Wahab Chasbullah to resolve political conflicts by bringing leaders together at the State Palace. At a recent combined halal bihalal event in Brebes for NGO activists and journalists, local figures highlighted its unique popularity in Indonesia compared to Arab countries, while the regent emphasised strengthening synergies between civil society, media, and government for regional progress. The event underscored the tradition's role in fostering open communication, criticism, and policy navigation in Indonesia's social and political landscape.

Fuel Efficiency: Bogor Regency Civil Servants Use Public Transport

In a bid to enhance fuel efficiency amid the global energy crisis and rising prices, the Bogor Regency Government has mandated its civil servants to adopt eco-friendly mobility practices, including mandatory office attendance from Monday to Thursday and encouraged carpooling with official vehicles. This policy, outlined in a circular dated 27 March 2026, aims to reduce fuel consumption and promote sustainable behaviours among public servants as a model for the community. The initiative underscores Indonesia's broader efforts to address energy challenges through practical governmental measures.