Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 3 April 2026

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Bireuen Regency: Flood victims' living allowance to begin distribution on 6 April

The Bireuen Regency government will commence distribution of living allowances (jadup) to flood and landslide victims on 6 April, providing Rp22.1 billion to 16,374 individuals from 4,759 families affected by the disasters. Each beneficiary will receive Rp15,000 per day, equivalent to Rp450,000 monthly for three months, targeting those with lightly, moderately, or severely damaged/lost homes. Additionally, the first phase of housing stimulus aid has been approved and is in the process of transfer to recipients' accounts following symbolic handover by Coordinating Minister Pratikno.

Tomorrow, Remains of Three Fallen TNI Soldiers in Lebanon to Arrive in the Homeland

The remains of three Indonesian TNI soldiers killed in an Israeli attack in Lebanon on 29-30 March 2026 are scheduled to arrive in Indonesia tomorrow, Saturday, 4 April 2026, via Soekarno-Hatta Airport, following a coordinated repatriation process. Upon arrival, the bodies will undergo a military ceremony at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base before being transported to their respective regions for military funerals. Indonesia has strongly condemned the attacks as deliberate violations of Lebanese sovereignty and UNIFIL mandates, demanding a thorough UN investigation and highlighting them as potential war crimes that threaten international peace.

4 Capital Market Reform Agendas Completed, OJK and BEI to Meet MSCI

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has finalised four key reform agendas for Indonesia's capital market, focusing on enhancing transparency and investor data quality. These include increasing the minimum free float requirement to 15%, refining investor classifications to 39 categories, and announcing high shareholding concentration stocks. Following this, OJK and the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) plan to engage with global index providers like MSCI and seek investor feedback to boost market credibility and attract international investment.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Pays Eid al-Fitr Visit to Vice President Gibran at the Palace

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Heizer met with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka on Thursday evening, 2 April 2026, at the Vice Presidential Palace in Jakarta for an Eid al-Fitr silaturahmi during the month of Shawwal. The 1.5-hour meeting, held in a festive post-Lebaran atmosphere, also covered various current issues and developments in Indonesia. This interaction underscores the tradition of strengthening ties among government officials following the Eid celebrations, amid their recent engagements in disaster-affected areas and international visits.

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence States Purchase of Turkish KAAN Fighter Jets Uses Debt Scheme

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the acquisition of KAAN fighter jets from Turkish Aerospace Industries will be financed through a foreign loan mechanism in coordination with the Ministry of Finance. The initial contract for a limited number of the advanced aircraft follows a government-to-government agreement signed in June 2025 and was formalised at the IDEF 2025 exhibition in Istanbul. This deal not only bolsters Indonesia's defence capabilities but also aims to enhance local defence industry capacity through planned industrial bases, underscoring a strategic partnership with Turkey.

KAI Serves 5 Million Passengers During Eid Transport Period

PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) transported 5,087,458 passengers during the Eid al-Fitr travel period from 11 March to 1 April 2026, marking an 8.07% increase from the previous year. The surge was evident across long-distance and local services, with the highest growth in regions like Purwokerto, Semarang, and Yogyakarta, alongside high occupancy rates and punctuality exceeding 98%. This performance underscores KAI's role in facilitating safe and reliable mass transportation, including free motorcycle transport for 48,740 riders, as part of government efforts to reduce long-distance motorcycle travel.

After 14 Years on the Run, Perpetrator of Attack on Tito Karnavian in Puncak Jaya Finally Captured

Indonesian security forces have arrested Pulan Wonda, a long-time fugitive from an armed criminal group in Papua, after 14 years on the run. Wonda, linked to the 2012 shooting of then-Papua Police Chief Tito Karnavian and the killing of police officers, was captured in Puncak Jaya following a brief chase and faces severe charges including premeditated murder, potentially leading to the death penalty. This arrest underscores the government's ongoing commitment to enforcing law and order in Papua through professional and humane approaches.

Facilities and Services Fail to Meet SOP, BGN to Halt SPPG Incentives

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency (BGN) plans to suspend daily incentives of Rp 6 million for Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) units if their facilities and services do not comply with standard operating procedures under the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG). This 'no service, no pay' mechanism enforces strict quality controls, including sanitation and food safety standards, to ensure optimal service delivery and mitigate operational risks borne by partners. The policy underscores ongoing public governance reforms, emphasising the programme's strategic value in addressing nutritional needs despite operational adjustments.

Jakarta Legislator Urges Government to Block Israeli Passport Holders

A Jakarta DPRD member, Lukmanul Hakim, has called on the Indonesian government to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the country in response to an attack on the UNIFIL headquarters in Lebanon that killed three TNI personnel. He emphasised the need for a firm sovereign response to the violation, while praising the government's domestic measures including posthumous promotions and substantial compensation for the fallen soldiers. This proposal underscores Indonesia's role in international politics amid ongoing regional tensions.

Digital Economy Tax Collections Reach Rp 48.11 Trillion

The Directorate General of Taxation (DJP) under the Ministry of Finance has recorded Rp 48.11 trillion in tax revenues from the digital economy sector up to 28 February 2026, primarily from VAT on electronic transactions (PPN PMSE), cryptocurrency taxes, fintech peer-to-peer lending taxes, and government procurement system taxes (SIPP). This figure highlights the growing contribution of the digital economy to national revenues, with PPN PMSE alone accounting for Rp 37.4 trillion from 223 providers. The government plans to enhance oversight, expand the tax base, and improve compliance among digital businesses through regulatory optimisation and information technology utilisation.

West Kalimantan Tour Guides Now Accept Tips via QRIS GoPay Merchant

A collaboration between GoPay and the Indonesian Tour Guides Association (HPI) in West Kalimantan has enabled hundreds of local tour guides to receive digital tips through QRIS integrated into the GoPay Merchant app, promoting cashless transactions in the tourism sector. This initiative aligns with the region's 5.59% year-on-year economic growth in Q2 2025 and rising adoption of non-cash payments, enhancing financial inclusion for daily workers like guides. By simplifying and accelerating tip payments, the system allows better income management and improves service experiences for both domestic and international tourists.

Tight Security for Good Friday 2026 Worship in Depok City

Police in Depok, West Java, deployed 198 personnel to secure 120 churches during Good Friday services on 3 April 2026, in collaboration with the military and local government to ensure a peaceful atmosphere for Christian worshippers. The event proceeded smoothly and reverently, with community members expressing gratitude for the heightened security measures that allowed for undisturbed reflection on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This coordination highlights the importance of inter-agency and community synergy in maintaining public safety during significant religious observances in Indonesia.

Bengkulu Regional Police Issues 3,132 Police Certificates in March 2026

The Bengkulu Regional Police, along with its district police units, issued 3,132 police clearance certificates (SKCK) throughout March 2026 to meet various administrative needs of the public, such as job applications and further education. The high demand is attributed to the document's requirement in employment processes, with services streamlined through online registration via the Polri app to reduce queues and enhance efficiency. Authorities urge applicants to prepare necessary documents like e-KTP photocopies, family cards, photos, and supporting files to expedite issuance.

Rubbish Piles in Angke Flats, West Jakarta, Once Reached Heights of Residents' House Roofs

Residents of the Angke rental flats in Tambora, West Jakarta, endured nearly a month of towering rubbish piles that reached the height of nearby house roofs, severely blocking pathways and causing health hazards like swarms of flies and foul odours. The accumulation worsened after the Ramadan period and issues at the Bantargebang landfill, with uneven waste collection by local workers exacerbating the problem in rear areas. Cleanup efforts have recently begun with large compactor trucks, improving conditions slightly amid ongoing complaints from residents about disrupted access and unsanitary environments.

Indonesia-Japan-South Korea to Invest Rp574 Trillion in Energy, Industry, and Digital Projects

Indonesia has secured economic cooperation agreements with South Korea and Japan totaling Rp574 trillion, focusing on energy, industry, and digital sectors to leverage the competitive strengths of all three nations. Key deals include USD10.2 billion with South Korea for green energy transitions, solar power, carbon capture, and manufacturing investments led by companies like POSCO, alongside USD23.6 billion from Japan. These commitments, highlighted by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto, underscore Indonesia's appeal to investors amid geopolitical uncertainties and pave the way for co-investments through the country's sovereign wealth fund.

Defence Ministry: Purchase of KF-21 Boramae Jets from South Korea Still in Initial Discussion Stage

Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has stated that plans to acquire KF-21 Boramae fighter jets from South Korea remain in the preliminary negotiation phase, with no final decisions on quantity or procurement scheme yet. The realisation of any contract hinges on national budget availability and comprehensive assessments of TNI operational needs, amid ongoing discussions during President Prabowo Subianto's recent visit to South Korea. This collaboration, initiated under former President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and continued through subsequent administrations, highlights Indonesia's efforts to bolster its defence capabilities while balancing fiscal priorities.

Indonesia plans 5,000 home renovations in East Nusa Tenggara

Indonesia's government is set to renovate up to 5,000 homes in East Nusa Tenggara this year, a significant rise from 436 units in 2025, targeting low-income communities to enhance living standards. The initiative, discussed in a meeting between Governor Melki Laka Lena and Housing Minister Maruarar Sirait, includes support via the People's Business Credit scheme offering subsidised loans and aims to address housing backlogs while boosting local economies through construction and microfinance. This programme reflects stronger central support for the eastern province, integrating physical upgrades with economic empowerment for sustainable benefits.

KKB Member Who Once Shot at Tito's Convoy in 2012 Arrested

Indonesian security forces have arrested Pulan Wonda, alias Kamenak, a long-time member of the armed criminal group (KKB) in Kodap XII Lanny Jaya, who was involved in the 2012 shooting of then-Papua Police Chief Tito Karnavian's convoy. The capture, executed on 2 April 2026 in Puncak Jaya, followed intelligence monitoring and involved measured force after the suspect attempted to flee, leaving him facing potential death penalty charges for murder, arson, and armed robbery. This operation underscores the Indonesian National Police's commitment to combating armed violence in Papua through professional law enforcement and community collaboration to foster regional stability.

Ono Surono Reluctant to Comment Extensively on Search of His Home

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) conducted searches at the residences of Ono Surono, Chairman of the West Java PDI Perjuangan chapter and Deputy Chairman of the West Java Provincial Legislative Council, in Bandung and Indramayu as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption involving project advances in Bekasi Regency. During the searches, KPK investigators seized hundreds of millions of rupiah in cash and documents, linked to a case that has already ensnared the inactive Bekasi Regent, Ade Kuswara Kunang, and his father. Ono Surono declined to provide detailed comments, deferring to his legal team, highlighting the intensifying scrutiny on political figures in regional corruption probes.

Considerations Behind Iran's Ambassador Meeting JK and Jokowi

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, has conducted a series of meetings with prominent Indonesian figures, including former President Joko Widodo and former Vice President Jusuf Kalla, amid escalating tensions between Iran and the US-Israel alliance. The primary aim is to garner support for an anti-war campaign and seek prayers from Indonesian Muslim leaders to bolster Iran's position. These diplomatic engagements also serve as a response to condolences offered to Iran, highlighting Indonesia's potential role in promoting conflict resolution in the region.

JDF Asia Pacific Condemns Israel's Approval of Death Penalty Law for Palestinians

The Justice and Democracy Forum (JDF) Asia Pacific has strongly condemned Israel's approval of a law allowing the death penalty for Palestinian detainees, viewing it as a grave violation of human rights and international humanitarian law, including the Fourth Geneva Convention and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. JDF President Jazuli Juwaini warned that this policy escalates discriminatory practices against Palestinians, risks broader instability in the Middle East and global security, and undermines efforts for fair and sustainable peace. The organisation urges the United Nations and the international community to take immediate action to halt implementation, repeal the law, ensure protection of Palestinian rights, and release civilian detainees.

German Foreign Minister, China Discuss Reopening Strait of Hormuz

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi have agreed on the need to restore free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. This comes as Iran plans to impose new navigation rules, including transit fees and mandatory permissions, following retaliatory strikes between Iran, the US, and Israel that have led to a de facto blockade of the vital oil shipping route. The discussions highlight international concerns over rising energy prices and calls for UN-led humanitarian corridors to ensure supplies of food and fertiliser.

Islamic Leaders Call for Rejection of US-Israel Aggression Against Iran

Former Muhammadiyah Chairman Din Syamsuddin has urged the global Muslim community to unite in condemning the US and Israeli attacks on Iran, describing them as unjust under international law and a humanitarian tragedy, especially during Ramadan. He highlighted the targeting of civilians, including children and women, as violating Islamic ethics of war, and called for Trump and Netanyahu to be regarded as common enemies of peace-loving people worldwide. Syamsuddin emphasised the need for solidarity between Indonesia and Iran to revive Islamic civilisation, expressing hopes for Iran's victory and continued cooperation in education and economy, while Iran's Ambassador praised his peace efforts and suggested forming an alliance against such aggressions.

ASDP Acts Swiftly to Anticipate Surge in Traffic at Ketapang, Ferry Services Under Control

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry has implemented tactical measures and cross-sector collaboration to manage the increased vehicle traffic, particularly logistics trucks, at Ketapang Port following the lifting of restrictions on three-axle and heavier cargo transport. By restructuring loading patterns, optimising buffer zones, and coordinating with military personnel, the company has ensured smoother operations across the Ketapang-Gilimanuk crossing, with passenger numbers rising 16% year-on-year. This response highlights the critical role of integrated logistics in maintaining Indonesia's vital Java-Bali connectivity amid heightened mobility and distribution demands.

Jakarta Remains a Magnet: 35% of Newcomers Dare to Seek Their Fortune

Jakarta continues to attract migrants, with nearly 35% of new arrivals citing job-seeking as their primary reason, driven largely by the productive age group of 15-64 years old, according to DKI Jakarta's Civil Registry Office. However, challenges persist as over 78% have only high school or lower education, leading to absorption into low-income informal sectors and living in slum areas. Authorities are intensifying data collection efforts post-Eid al-Fitr to support programmes for formalising informal sectors and enhancing public services.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education: Silaturahmi as a Means to Strengthen Harmony Among Fellow Citizens

Indonesian Minister of Basic and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, emphasised during a halal bihalal event in Pekalongan that silaturahmi serves as a vital tool for fostering unity and harmony among the populace, essential for building a strong, advanced, and sovereign nation amid differences and challenges. He highlighted the cultural significance of Eid greetings like "minal aidin wal faizin" and "mohon maaf lahir dan batin," noting how Islam in Indonesia integrates with local traditions to promote goodness and social cohesion. This gathering with Muhammadiyah members underscores the role of such traditions in reinforcing community bonds during regional social dynamics and development.

Nusantara Authority Invites Public to Leave a Green Footprint in IKN

The Nusantara Capital Authority (Otorita IKN) is encouraging visitors to plant trees while holidaying at the Miniature Tropical Rainforest in the Core Government Centre Area of IKN, Sepaku District, East Kalimantan, as part of Easter long weekend activities from 3-5 April 2026. The free programme, limited to 150 participants daily and registrable via the IKNOW app, aims to foster environmental awareness and direct public involvement in IKN's sustainable development. Participants are advised to arrive by 08:00 WITA, prepare physically, and bring personal items like hats and reusable water bottles to minimise plastic use.

Ways to Save on Fuel, Electricity, and LPG Usage from the Ministry of ESDM

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) has shared practical tips for conserving fuel (BBM), electricity, and LPG amid global energy crisis threats from Middle East conflicts. Key advice includes limiting subsidised fuel refills to 50 litres per day for private vehicles while allowing more for public transport, and promoting the use of public transportation to reduce consumption. These measures emphasise collective responsibility for a low-pollution environment sustainable for future generations.

Amsal Sitepu Case: DPR Member Claims Karo District Prosecutor's Office Violates New Criminal Procedure Code

A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III, Abdullah, has accused the Head of the Karo District Prosecutor's Office, Danke Rajagukguk, and his staff of violating the new Criminal Procedure Code (KUHAP) in handling the case of videographer Amsal Christy Sitepu, particularly by issuing a letter that misrepresents a court's decision on detention suspension as a transfer. Abdullah demands strict sanctions from the Attorney General's Office and criticises the prosecutor's office for fostering an anti-criticism culture that undermines institutional development and public trust in the justice system. In response to parliamentary concerns about potential intervention and intimidation, the prosecutor attributed discrepancies in official correspondence to a typographical error by his subordinates.

Iran and Oman Draft Protocol to Monitor Strait of Hormuz

Iran is developing a joint protocol with Oman to oversee maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to ensure safe navigation without restrictions, amid ongoing regional tensions. The strait, vital for 20 million barrels of oil daily, has seen sharp declines in shipments following US-Israeli attacks on Iran, raising global economic concerns over potential closures and rising costs. Iranian officials condemn attacks on nuclear sites as violations of international law, warn of retaliatory measures, and face domestic pressure to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Indonesia plans 5,000 home renovations in East Nusa Tenggara

Governor Melki Laka Lena announced a significant expansion of the housing renovation programme in East Nusa Tenggara, increasing from 436 units in 2025 to 5,000 this year, targeting low-income communities across Kupang City and 21 districts. Supported by the People's Business Credit (KUR) scheme under President Prabowo Subianto, which offers a five percent interest subsidy on long-term housing loans, the initiative aims to enhance home ownership for groups such as civil servants, teachers, farmers, and small business owners while integrating economic empowerment through state-owned financing. This central government-backed effort is expected to reduce housing backlogs, improve living standards, and stimulate local economies in the eastern province.

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Meets Vice President Gibran for 1.5-Hour Discussion on National Developments

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya met with Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka at the Vice Presidential Palace on Thursday evening, engaging in a 1.5-hour discussion on various recent developments across Indonesia. The meeting, which was shared on the Cabinet Secretariat's Instagram, featured the two officials seated opposite each other, with Gibran holding a stack of work reports. While specific details of the discussions were not disclosed, the interaction underscores ongoing coordination between key government figures on national matters.

Soaring Oil Prices Drive Up Airline Baggage Fees!

Global oil price volatility is forcing US airlines to hike baggage fees as fuel costs soar, with United Airlines increasing its checked baggage charges by US$10 effective from early April, following a similar move by JetBlue. This comes amid a more than 82% rise in jet fuel prices since late February due to geopolitical tensions involving attacks on Iran, marking the industry's largest expense after labour costs. While these increases aim to offset rising operational expenses, exemptions and discounts remain available for credit card holders, elite frequent flyers, and premium passengers, highlighting the broader economic pressures on the aviation sector.

Lebaran Betawi 2026 Confirmed to Take Place 10-12 April

The Jakarta Provincial Government has confirmed that the 18th edition of Lebaran Betawi, a major cultural and halal bihalal event following Eid al-Fitr, will be held at Lapangan Banteng in Central Jakarta from 10 to 12 April 2026, despite budget constraints due to global concerns. The event, directed by Governor Pramono Anung, highlights the historical significance of the venue as an iconic landmark of Jakarta's development, aiming to foster community participation in Betawi traditions. Last year's celebration featured traditional performances, Betawi cuisine presentations, and symbolic offerings from mayors to provincial leaders, underscoring efforts to preserve local heritage.

Food Technology Expert Recommends Cold Chain System to Support MBG Programme

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has suspended operations at 1,256 food service units in eastern Indonesia to enforce national standards for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, highlighting the need for improved technical compliance among partners. Food technology expert Yuyun Anwar proposes implementing a cold chain catering system to maintain food freshness, prevent contamination, and reduce waste, ensuring the programme's success in quality and public trust. BGN officials emphasise ongoing monitoring, certification processes like hygiene and sanitation certificates, and the potential for MBG to become a national model for safe, professional nutrition management.

IMO Secretary-General: Military Efforts Alone Cannot Resolve Hormuz Crisis

The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Arsenio Dominguez, has emphasised that de-escalation and practical maritime solutions are essential to address the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz, rather than relying solely on military approaches. Speaking at a virtual meeting hosted by the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office attended by over 40 foreign ministers, Dominguez urged diplomatic engagement to evacuate around 20,000 stranded seafarers and establish humanitarian corridors. Since the conflict erupted on 28 February with large-scale US and Israeli military operations against Iran, the IMO has reported 21 attacks on commercial vessels, resulting in 10 deaths and several serious injuries, prompting coordinated international actions to secure safe evacuation frameworks and prevent environmental disasters.

Oracle Lays Off 30,000 Employees but Seeks to Hire Thousands of Foreign Workers

Oracle Corporation has laid off approximately 30,000 employees across multiple countries, including the US, India, Canada, and Mexico, as part of organisational changes announced via email on 31 March. Amid this downsizing, the company faces backlash for submitting thousands of H-1B visa petitions to recruit foreign talent for specialised roles, sparking accusations of insensitivity and disloyalty from affected workers and social media users. This controversy highlights ongoing debates in the tech sector about outsourcing and the use of temporary visas during mass layoffs.

Yogyakarta City Government Welcomes Jogja Financial Festival and Jogja Run D-City

The Yogyakarta City Government has expressed strong support for the Jogja Financial Festival and Jogja Run D-City, scheduled for 22-24 May 2026, highlighting its role in delivering modern financial literacy programmes. Mayor Hasto Wardoyo praised the event's innovative approach, which combines education with engaging activities like running events, contrasting it with less effective past methods such as puppet shows. He assured full municipal backing to ensure the success of the festival, which is expected to attract thousands of participants and enhance public participation in financial education.

TransNusa Strengthens Domestic Network Connection with New Route Launch and Increased Scheduled Flight Frequency

TransNusa has launched a new direct route between Jakarta and Lombok, operating 14 weekly flights to enhance connectivity to this key tourism hub in West Nusa Tenggara, which attracts over 1.2 million visitors annually, alongside increasing the frequency of its Jakarta-Yogyakarta service. The airline offers competitive ticket prices starting from IDR899,000 and premium packages like SEAT-PLUS and FLEXI-PRO, featuring generous baggage allowances, flexible changes, and enhanced comfort with 30 inches of legroom on A320 aircraft. This expansion underscores TransNusa's strategy to boost domestic tourism and solidify its position as Indonesia's leading Premium Service Carrier, building on its innovative route developments since 2022.

Indonesian Watches to Coffee Suddenly Become Hot Commodities in Belgium

Indonesia's exports to Belgium surged to US$1.905 billion in the first half of 2024, marking a 20.48% year-on-year increase and positioning Belgium as one of Europe's fastest-growing markets for Indonesian products. Key drivers include footwear at US$431.19 million (up 22.03%), coffee, tea, and spices at US$305.13 million (up 158.11%), and iron and steel at US$275.46 million (up 121.18%), with remarkable growth in niche sectors like pharmaceuticals and watches. This diversification strengthens export resilience and signals emerging demand in Belgium for a broader range of Indonesian goods.

Demak hit by flooding again due to breach in Sungai Tuntang embankment

Flooding has struck Demak Regency in Central Java after three sections of the Sungai Tuntang embankment collapsed, affecting villages in the Guntur sub-district and prompting the evacuation of residents. The local disaster agency (BPBD) deployed four teams to assist in the evacuations and coordinated with the River Basin Organisation, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in the river's infrastructure despite prior preventive measures. This incident follows a similar breach in February 2024 that disrupted key transport links, underscoring the need for improved flood management in the region.

Pertamina Hulu Energi Signs MoU with Three Oil and Gas Giants

PT Pertamina Hulu Energi (PHE), a subsidiary of Indonesia's state-owned Pertamina, has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with South Korean firms SK Innovation, SK E&S (part of SK Group), and Posco International, as well as ExxonMobil, during the Indonesia-Korea Business Forum in Seoul. The agreements focus on enhancing technical capabilities, exploring inorganic growth opportunities, and accelerating low-carbon technologies, particularly cross-border Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) projects to leverage Indonesia's carbon storage capacity and Korea's industrial decarbonisation needs. This collaboration positions Indonesia as a regional CCS hub, supports global emission reductions, and aligns with PHE's commitment to international competitiveness, energy security, and sustainable practices under ESG principles.

Danger! Veteran Analyst Predicts Global Gold Prices to Drop by up to 20 Percent

Veteran technical analyst Avi Gilburt has warned that the ongoing correction in gold prices is far from over, potentially leading to a sharp decline of around 20 percent to between US$3,800 and US$4,000 per ounce. He outlines two scenarios: one where prices fail to break resistance and fall immediately, and a more deceptive path involving a temporary rally to US$5,200 before a severe drop, which could mislead investors into believing the downturn has ended. While short-term pressures persist for gold and silver, Gilburt views current silver prices below US$60 as a strong long-term buying opportunity and highlights potential outperformance by mining company stocks in future rallies.

Head of BGN Issues Ultimatum to 2,100 SPPGs to Improve MBG Services, 1,789 Others Suspended

The Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), Dadan Hindayana, has issued warnings to 2,100 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPGs) to enhance their service quality under the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG), while temporarily suspending operations for 1,789 others due to failures in obtaining Sanitation Hygiene Certificates (SLHS) and lacking wastewater treatment facilities. These measures aim to ensure compliance with health and operational standards, with suspensions lasting one to two weeks until requirements are met. The actions follow recent issues during Ramadan where 62 SPPGs served non-compliant meals, highlighting BGN's commitment to programme integrity amid efforts to combat child malnutrition in Indonesia.

Indonesia Secures Rp 574 Trillion Investment Commitments from South Korea and Japan

Indonesia has secured substantial investment commitments totalling Rp 574 trillion from South Korea and Japan through recent high-level visits, including the signing of 19 Memorandums of Understanding covering strategic sectors such as renewable energy, manufacturing, batteries, AI, and infrastructure. Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto highlighted the significance of these pledges amid global geopolitical uncertainties, noting that they reinforce Indonesia's appeal to investors and pave the way for co-investment partnerships, particularly involving the national sovereign wealth fund Danantara. The agreements aim to strengthen supply chains and address investment bottlenecks to boost bilateral economic ties.

Iranian Ambassador Accuses Zionists of Fomenting Sunni-Shia Divide

Iran's Ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi, has accused Zionist forces of engineering divisions between Sunni and Shia Muslims to prevent Islamic unity amid escalating conflicts involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Speaking at a meeting with Indonesian Islamic leaders including Din Syamsuddin, he highlighted Iran's inclusive approach, where various religious groups, including Sunnis, Christians, and Jews, are represented in parliament and contribute to national defence. The gathering also saw calls for Muslim solidarity in Indonesia, echoing appeals from Al-Azhar's Grand Sheikh against colonial-style divide-and-rule tactics.

Good Friday Worship in Karawang Escorted by Police

The Good Friday worship services commemorating the death of Jesus Christ in 2026 were conducted safely and orderly across various churches in Karawang Regency, with comprehensive security provided by the local police. Polres Karawang deployed 143 personnel to 31 churches and 16 places of worship, ensuring no disruptions to public order. This security measure, praised by worshippers, underscores efforts to maintain religious tolerance and harmony during the Easter celebrations.

HNW Condemns Israel's Death Penalty Law for Palestinian Prisoners: This is a Human Rights Violation

Hidayat Nur Wahid, Deputy Chairman of Indonesia's People's Consultative Assembly, has strongly condemned Israel's recently approved death penalty law, which he views as a discriminatory measure targeting Palestinian prisoners and a clear violation of international human rights law. He urges the international community, including the UN Human Rights Office, to actively coordinate efforts to challenge and repeal the legislation, highlighting the ongoing abuses against Palestinians and praising the humane treatment of Israeli prisoners by Palestinian groups. Wahid calls on the Indonesian government to intensify its diplomatic role in supporting Palestinian self-determination and ending Israeli occupation through UN forums.

Cartenz Task Force Captures KKB Shooter of Tito Karnavian's Convoy in 2012

The Cartenz Peace Operation Task Force 2026 has arrested Pulan Wonda, alias Kamenak, a member of the armed criminal group (KKB) in Kodap XII Lanny Jaya, who was involved in attacks on security forces and civilians, including the 2012 shooting of then-Papua Police Chief Tito Karnavian's convoy in Lanny Jaya. The suspect was apprehended on 2 April after attempting to flee during a raid in Mulia town, sustaining a leg injury from measured force used by officers. This operation underscores the Indonesian state's commitment to law enforcement and protection against armed violence in Papua, while emphasising preventive and humane approaches through community cooperation.

4 Facts on ASN in the 'Wet' Ministry of Public Works: Immune to Law - Pondok Indah House

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo has exposed irregularities among civil servants (ASN) in his ministry, including officials seemingly immune to legal accountability, suspicious fund collections, ownership of luxury properties in elite areas like Pondok Indah, and demands for state-provided lunches despite salaries. He attributes these issues to a 'deep state' resisting his anti-corruption efforts, vowing to clean up the ministry despite managing a massive budget and facing significant challenges. This revelation underscores the ongoing battle against entrenched corruption in Indonesia's public sector, potentially setting the stage for legal actions and reforms under the new administration.