Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 May 2026

Showing 551-600 of 601 articles

Ministry of Transportation Awaits KNKT Investigation Results on Cause of ALS Bus and Tanker Truck Accident in Musi Rawas

The Ministry of Transportation is awaiting the results of the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) investigation and police inquiry into the fatal accident involving an ALS bus and a tanker truck from PT Seleraya in North Musi Rawas, South Sumatra. Officials discovered that the bus lacked valid permits since November 2020, despite its electronic roadworthiness certificate remaining valid until May 2026, and suspect serious violations including document forgery and operating without a valid licence under Ministerial Regulation No. 15 of 2019. Further inspections will audit the involved company, with indications of chassis number tampering on the bus highlighting ongoing regulatory enforcement efforts in public transport safety.

PKS President: We Want to Produce National Leaders, Not Just Win Seats

PKS President Almuzzammil Yusuf emphasised the importance of faith as the foundation of youth leadership during the Indonesian Young Leaders Academy (APMI) event at PKS headquarters in South Jakarta. He stated that the party aims to nurture future national leaders with strong spiritual conviction and a fighting spirit, rather than merely pursuing electoral victories and seats. Drawing on Islamic history, Almuzzammil urged PKS youth to become visionary leaders rooted in values, spirituality, and societal benefit, positioning APMI as a symbol of the party's commitment to genuine leadership development.

Legendary Investor Michael Burry Says AI Market is Too Hot, Similar to Dot-com Bubble

Legendary investor Michael Burry has warned that the market euphoria surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) is reminiscent of the final stages of the dot-com bubble in the late 1990s. Known for predicting the 2008 US housing crisis, Burry highlighted on Substack that investor focus is excessively centred on AI, with stock indices like the S&P 500 hitting records despite weakening economic indicators such as consumer sentiment. He compared the ongoing rally in semiconductor stocks, up over 65% in 2026, to the 1999-2000 bubble, a view echoed by billionaire investor Paul Tudor Jones.

Free Private Schools in Jakarta Suspected of Still Charging Fees, Strict Sanctions Await

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has allocated Rp 253 billion to fund 103 private schools under a free education programme for primary, secondary, and vocational levels, aiming to enhance access for underprivileged families. However, the Jakarta City Council and Education Office have uncovered suspicions that some participating schools are still demanding additional fees from students and parents, in violation of Governor Regulation No. 34 of 2025. Officials warn of severe sanctions and suggest re-evaluating the "free school" label if such practices persist, emphasising that the funds must solely support teaching activities.

Commotion Over Rp720 Billion Treasure Buried in Java Sea Discovered by Fisherman

In 2003, a fisherman from Cirebon stumbled upon a remarkable underwater archaeological treasure while fishing in the Java Sea, 70 km off the coast at a depth of 50 metres, initially mistaking heavy ceramic shards in his net for an abundant catch. The discovery led to a major excavation project by a private company under government permit, uncovering the Cirebon Wreck—a 9th-10th century shipwreck laden with 314,171 Chinese Tang Dynasty ceramics, 12,000 high-value pearls, thousands of gems, and gold, estimated at Rp720 billion. This find illuminates ancient maritime trade routes connecting China's Tang Dynasty, the Srivijaya Kingdom in Indonesia, and broader Indian Ocean networks, marking it as one of the largest underwater archaeological discoveries of the early 21st century.

Rasuna Said Street to Host Car-Free Day This Sunday Morning: Check Out the Alternative Routes

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is expanding its Car-Free Day (CFD) initiative by temporarily closing Jalan HR Rasuna Said in South Jakarta this Sunday from 05:30 to 10:00 WIB. The closure affects the eastern side from the Gembira intersection to Raya Casablanca, and the western side from Prof. Dr. Satrio to Setiabudi Utara Raya. This measure promotes reduced vehicle use and public recreation, with alternative routes advised for commuters.

Residents of Tunda Island in Serang Complain about Damaged Solar Power Plant, Urge Government to Repair It

Residents of Tunda Island in Serang are facing unreliable electricity supply from a diesel power plant reliant on limited solar fuel stocks, leading to frequent outages that disrupt mobile signals and internet access. They continue to pay daily fees enthusiastically, hoping the funds support maintenance, but express strong desire for the government to repair the existing but damaged solar power facility to provide stable power. The lack of skilled technical personnel exacerbates minor issues into major breakdowns, highlighting a critical need for better resource allocation in remote areas.

Indramayu Reptile Community Condemns Use of Snakes and Monitor Lizards in Demonstration at Regent's Office

The Indramayu Reptile Community has expressed deep concern over the recent use of monitor lizards and snakes in protests at the Regent's Office, where demonstrators from groups Kompi and ATJ released the animals in frustration over not meeting Regent Lucky Hakim. This practice is viewed as animal exploitation that endangers lives and undermines environmental conservation efforts by disrupting ecosystems. Community representative Sulthon Agung emphasised that such animals play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance and should remain in their natural habitats rather than being tools in demonstrations.

In Gorontalo, the President Wants to Develop the Blue Ocean Economy

President Prabowo Subianto has announced ambitious plans to bolster Indonesia's maritime and fisheries sector through the 'blue ocean economy' during a visit to a fishermen's village in Gorontalo. He emphasised the vast potential of Indonesia's seas to enhance coastal communities' welfare and national economic sovereignty, pledging large-scale investments and the construction of 1,582 fishing vessels this year to be managed by fishermen's cooperatives. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on foreign vessels and promote self-sufficiency, aligning with broader goals of food security and national independence.

Zulhas: PAN Is Not a Weak Party

Zulkifli Hasan, Chairman of the National Mandate Party (PAN), has set an ambitious goal for the party to secure a top-three position in Banten province during the 2029 Legislative Elections, emphasising internal consolidation and grassroots mobilisation to boost voter support. Banten PAN leader Irna, wife of Deputy Governor Dimyati Natakusumah, echoed this target, stating the party aims to support the current leadership without seeking first place. Nationally, PAN targets 15% of the vote, equivalent to 85 seats in the House of Representatives, by optimising support in key electoral districts where it narrowly lost in 2024.

Indonesia and Philippines forge nickel corridor to strengthen regional supply chain

Indonesia and the Philippines have launched the "Indonesia-Philippines Nickel Corridor" initiative to enhance industrial value chains in the critical minerals sector, aiming to bolster regional supply chains and elevate their positions in the global nickel market. Unveiled during a high-level business roundtable in Cebu amid President Prabowo Subianto's visit for the 48th ASEAN Summit, the partnership involves collaboration between mining associations on data exchange, policy dialogue, investments, ESG standards, and workforce development. With the two nations accounting for over 73% of global nickel output, this cooperation secures raw materials for Indonesia's downstream industry while enabling value addition in the Philippines, alongside broader agreements in agriculture, aviation, and a new nickel processing facility to support the electric vehicle supply chain.

Weekly Politics: Prabowo at ASEAN Summit to Ade Armando Denying Slander

This weekly roundup highlights key political events in Indonesia from 4 to 10 May, including President Prabowo Subianto's calls at the ASEAN Summit for stronger citizen protection and regional peace, his commitment to renovate all puskesmas nationwide, and the TNI's deployment of military assets to secure the summit in Cebu. It also covers TVRI's initiative allowing UMKM to host free World Cup 2026 watch parties upon registration, and social media activist Ade Armando's denial of slandering former Vice President Jusuf Kalla. These stories underscore the administration's focus on healthcare, regional diplomacy, and national security amid ongoing political discourse.

Raid on International Online Gambling Headquarters in Hayam Wuruk, West Jakarta: 321 Foreign Nationals Arrested

Indonesian police from Bareskrim Polri and Polda Metro Jaya raided a building in Hayam Wuruk, West Jakarta, suspected to be the headquarters of an international online gambling network, arresting 321 foreign nationals involved in cross-border operations. The site had been used for gambling activities for approximately two months, with authorities seizing around Rp 1.9 billion in Indonesian rupiah, along with Vietnamese dong and US dollars. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat transnational cybercrime and illegal gambling in Indonesia, potentially disrupting a significant illicit revenue stream.

Legal Affairs of the Week: Sritex Case Defendant Acquitted to Customs Case

This weekly roundup highlights key legal developments in Indonesia from 4 to 10 May, focusing on corruption cases involving state institutions. Notable outcomes include the acquittal of former Bank Jateng CEO Supriyatno and BJB's ex-Corporate Division Head Dicky Syahbandinata in the Sritex credit facility scandal, which allegedly caused Rp502 billion in losses. Other stories cover KPK examinations into customs officials' money flows, convictions of two directors in a Lombok Timur Chromebook procurement graft case, and suspicions against a transport ministry advisor for receiving bribes related to railway projects.

MBG Poisoning in East Jakarta: Causes to Number of Victims

A food poisoning incident linked to the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme has affected hundreds of primary school students in Pulogebang, East Jakarta, with tofu wontons suspected as the culprit. The Jakarta Health Department reported 252 parental complaints and 188 students seeking medical care, with 26 still hospitalised as of 9 May 2026. This case highlights ongoing issues in the MBG rollout, adding to over 21,000 victims since 2025 and underscoring the need for stricter food safety standards in government nutrition initiatives.

Sunday: Mobile Driving Licence Renewal Services Available at Two Locations in Jakarta

The Metro Jaya Regional Police Traffic Directorate is offering mobile driving licence (SIM) renewal services on Sunday at two locations in East and West Jakarta, operating from 7:00 to 12:00 WIB. The service caters exclusively to renewals of valid SIM A and SIM C licences, requiring original ID cards, original and photocopied SIMs, application forms, and on-site health checks, with fees set at Rp80,000 for SIM A and Rp75,000 for SIM C as per Government Regulation No. 60 of 2016. Holders of expired licences must apply for new ones at the Daan Mogot Satpas in West Jakarta, highlighting efforts to enhance public access to essential administrative services on weekends.

When Prabowo Visits TNI Soldiers Guarding Indonesia's Northernmost Tip in Miangas...

President Prabowo Subianto made an unannounced stop at an Army post in Miangas, Indonesia's northernmost outpost near the Philippines, to personally greet and converse with two soldiers on duty. During the spontaneous visit, he inquired about their daily needs, such as access to clean water, assignment durations, and family conditions, demonstrating his attentiveness to frontline troops. The soldiers expressed pride and surprise at the interaction, highlighting Prabowo's firm yet caring leadership style in supporting military personnel at remote locations.

Iran War Deemed to Transform Global Energy System, Oil and Gas Industry Prepares for New Era

The ongoing Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz are expected to fundamentally reshape the global energy landscape, according to executives from major oil and gas companies. This disruption has already led to the loss of nearly one billion barrels of global oil supply, prompting governments to prioritise energy security through increased investments in exploration, low-carbon alternatives, and diversified infrastructure. Industry leaders anticipate a surge in strategic reserves and a reevaluation of energy strategies worldwide to mitigate future vulnerabilities.

Antam Gold Prices Today, 10 May 2026: Check the Full List

Antam gold prices remained unchanged on Sunday, 10 May 2026, with the selling price holding steady at Rp 2,839,000 per gram and the buyback price at Rp 2,644,000 per gram, according to the official Logam Mulia website. The gold is available in various weights from 0.5 grams to 1 kilogram, and purchases are subject to a 0.25% Income Tax (PPh) Article 22 for buyers with a Taxpayer Identification Number (NPWP). This stability reflects ongoing monitoring of global gold price movements, providing investors with reliable pricing information.

Should the Election Bill Be a Government or DPR Initiative? PPI Director's Analysis

The proposal for the Election Bill as a government initiative has been rejected by PDIP's Deddy Sitorus, prompting debate on whether it should originate from the government or DPR. PPI Director Adi Prayitno argues that the DPR, representing party interests, should take a more aggressive role in discussing the bill, given its critical issues like parliamentary thresholds, vote conversion methods, and anti-money politics measures. He highlights that a government-led initiative might overlook non-coalition parties' concerns, especially amid recent Constitutional Court rulings affecting election thresholds.

Prabowo: We Won't Let Foreign Vessels Take Fish from Indonesian Waters, We're Allocating 1,582 Boats to Fishermen

President Prabowo Subianto has declared his opposition to foreign vessels exploiting Indonesia's marine resources, insisting that the country's fish should be harvested solely by its own people. To support local fishermen, the government plans to provide 1,582 vessels and will inaugurate 1,386 Merah Putih Fishermen's Villages this year, with an additional 1,000 villages annually thereafter. This initiative underscores Prabowo's commitment to empowering the fishing community and ensuring their prosperity as part of broader efforts to uplift Indonesian citizens.

When the Indonesian President Suddenly Stops by to Visit Miangas Posad

President Prabowo Subianto made an impromptu stop during his working visit to Miangas Island in North Sulawesi to meet and greet soldiers stationed at the Indonesian Army Post (Posad) Miangas, the northernmost outpost bordering the Philippines. Accompanied by the Defence Minister, he inspected the facility, reviewed activity reports, and interacted with Sergeant Alan Mandibo and Corporal Armoko, who have been serving there for 11 months as part of the Outer Island Security Task Force. This spontaneous gesture highlights the President's commitment to the welfare and morale of troops guarding Indonesia's remote frontiers.

One Month of ASN WFH: Economist Highlights Hidden Costs

One month after the Indonesian government implemented a mandatory Work From Home (WFH) policy for civil servants every Friday starting 1 April 2026, economist Budi Frensidy from the University of Indonesia has cautioned that the energy savings are not yet significant, describing current estimates as mere potentials rather than concrete results. He recommends evaluating the policy after at least three to six months to assess impacts on fuel subsidies, office electricity, official travel, productivity, and public services. Frensidy emphasises that true fiscal savings require complementary measures like reducing operational costs for buildings, utilities, and in-person meetings, otherwise WFH risks becoming a symbolic gesture amid rising oil prices and strained energy subsidies.

Prabowo: If Children of the Wealthy Don't Need MBG, That's Fine

President Prabowo Subianto has stated that he will not force the free nutritious meal (MBG) programme on those who do not need it, particularly children from affluent families, during a visit to Gorontalo following the 48th ASEAN Summit in the Philippines. He emphasised ensuring all schools in need receive the programme this year while making it optional for others, as part of his flagship initiative promised during the 2024 presidential election targeting 82 million beneficiaries. This approach highlights the government's flexibility in implementing social welfare policies to focus resources effectively.

Pangkoopsudnas Reveals Modernisation Homework for Air Force Bases, a Serious Concern

The Commander of the National Air Operations Command (Pangkoopsudnas), Marshal Madya TNI Minggit Triwibowo, has highlighted key challenges in modernising Indonesian Air Force bases to support new aircraft acquisitions such as the Airbus A400M and Rafale jets. This initiative, a presidential policy, focuses on upgrading facilities at bases including Halim Perdanakusuma, Roesmin Nurjadin in Pekanbaru, and others like Supadio, Raden Sadjad in Natuna, Atang Senjaya, and Suryadarma in Kalijati to enhance operational capabilities. The effort underscores the government's commitment to significantly bolstering the TNI Air Force's strength through these infrastructural developments.

Jakarta Weekly Roundup: Jakarta's 499th Anniversary Launch to LPDP Management

The Jakarta Provincial Government is set to launch the 499th anniversary celebrations of the city in 2026 at the iconic Rasuna Said corridor, aiming to transform it into a global landmark and expand car-free day options for public health. The local economy grew by 5.59% in the first quarter of 2026, driven primarily by wholesale and retail trade, while the government plans to manage a dedicated LPDP education fund in collaboration with the central body and continues to exempt electric vehicles from odd-even traffic restrictions to promote low-emission transport. These developments highlight Jakarta's focus on urban transformation, economic growth, education investment, and sustainable mobility.

Prabowo: We Will Soon Achieve Fuel Self-Sufficiency, No Need to Import

President Prabowo Subianto has claimed that Indonesia is on the verge of achieving self-sufficiency in fuel (BBM), eliminating the need for imports, a development he announced during a visit to Gorontalo. He emphasised the importance of managing Indonesia's rich natural resources domestically to prevent foreign control, extending this vision to sectors like fisheries and food production, where he asserted self-sufficiency in rice and corn has already boosted the nation's respect in ASEAN. This push for energy and food independence underscores Prabowo's agenda for national self-reliance, potentially transforming Indonesia's economic and geopolitical standing.

First CFD on Rasuna Said in Jakarta Today, Check Out the Parking Areas

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has prepared thousands of parking spaces to support the inaugural Car Free Day (CFD) on Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said in South Jakarta, providing 1,680 car slots and 2,007 motorcycle slots to accommodate public enthusiasm. Officials are encouraging the use of public transport like Transjakarta and LRT Jabodebek to reduce traffic congestion in the Kuningan and Setiabudi areas. This initiative highlights the potential of Rasuna Said as a new public space in Jakarta's business district, expanding car-free zones in the capital.

NasDem's Irma Furious Over 252 East Jakarta Students Poisoned by Free Nutritious Meals, Demands SPPG Suspension

Irma Suryani Chaniago, a NasDem member of the DPR's Commission IX, has expressed outrage over the suspected food poisoning of 252 students in East Jakarta from the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, particularly highlighting issues with the tahu wonton dish. She demands the suspension of the SPPG unit in the area and an evaluation of three National Nutrition Agency (BGN) personnel stationed there, criticising the lack of proper checks and the integrity of hygiene certifications. This incident underscores ongoing concerns about food safety in the government-backed MBG initiative, with Irma calling for stronger collaboration between BGN and BPOM to ensure compliance and prevent future risks.

Between Admin Fees and Digital Platform Innovation

The Indonesian government, through the Minister of Cooperatives and SMEs, plans to regulate admin fees on e-commerce platforms to protect the 64.1 million SMEs that contribute 61.07% to the national GDP, amid growing digital economy challenges. However, such interventions risk negative externalities if not data-driven, as they could undermine the innovation incentives for platforms that have boosted SME resilience and market access during crises. The article advocates for balanced regulations that support SME digital transition via training and infrastructure while preserving platform revenues essential for maintaining advanced features and cybersecurity, projecting e-commerce GMV at Rp1.15 quadrillion by 2025.

Ciputra Life: SRBI as an Attractive Investment Instrument Amid Global Dynamics

Bank Indonesia has proactively adjusted the market interest rate structure by increasing the yield on Sekuritas Rupiah Bank Indonesia (SRBI) to shield the Rupiah from geopolitical uncertainties. Although PT Asuransi Ciputra Indonesia (Ciputra Life) currently holds no investments in SRBI, its director Listianawati Sugiyanto views it as an appealing option for future allocation, particularly given ongoing global market influences and exchange rate volatility. This perspective underscores the instrument's potential role in stabilising investments during turbulent times.

Moment of Raid on Online Gambling Headquarters in Hayam Wuruk, Foreign Nationals in Casual Attire in the Work Room

Indonesian police raided an office in West Jakarta's Hayam Wuruk area, uncovering an international online gambling operation staffed by over 300 foreign nationals from countries including China, Vietnam, and Myanmar. Authorities seized Rp 1.9 billion in cash, along with foreign currencies worth millions of Vietnamese Dong and US Dollars, numerous mobile phones, passports, and other evidence during the operation. This crackdown highlights ongoing efforts to dismantle illicit gambling networks in Indonesia, with suspects caught in the act and further investigations underway to identify additional roles.

PKB Appreciates Polri for Uncovering Online Gambling Headquarters in West Jakarta: Indonesia Becomes Target of Operations

The National Awakening Party (PKB) has commended the Indonesian National Police (Polri), particularly Bareskrim, for dismantling an online gambling network operated by hundreds of foreign nationals across 75 sites in Jakarta's Hayam Wuruk office district. This operation, which secured 321 foreigners from countries including China, Vietnam, and others, underscores Indonesia's vulnerability to sophisticated cross-border digital crimes and highlights Polri's commitment to safeguarding national economic resilience and digital security. PKB urges Polri to intensify and sustain efforts against online gambling and other cyber threats to prevent Indonesia from becoming a hub for international criminal networks.

40-Year Mortgage: A Solution for Home Ownership or a Lifetime Debt Trap?

The Indonesian government, led by Minister Maruarar Sirait, is preparing regulations to extend mortgage tenors to 40 years, primarily targeting low-income earners and workers burdened by rising house prices and stagnant incomes. This could reduce monthly payments to Rp800,000-Rp900,000 for a subsidised house priced at Rp185 million, but critics warn it may lead to lifelong debt, with borrowers potentially paying over twice the home's value and finishing payments post-retirement age. While aligning with the President's vision to improve housing access, the policy raises concerns about financial sustainability without strong insurance protections or early repayment options.

In the giant mortar, the city tells its story

The Festival Rujak Uleg 2026 in Surabaya transformed the traditional dish rujak cingur from a symbol of everyday life into a vibrant cultural spectacle, blending local traditions with global themes under the 'Rujak Phoria' motif during the city's 733rd anniversary celebrations. Mayor Eri Cahyadi's active participation highlighted the event as a space for community cohesion and public interaction, involving residents, campus groups, and business actors. Amid urban modernisation, the festival raises questions about preserving cultural authenticity and meaning beyond mere entertainment.

Officers Find Mobile Phone During Inmate Cell Search, Indramayu Prison Tightens Surveillance

Indramayu Class IIB Prison has intensified surveillance measures following the discovery of prohibited items, including mobile phones and communication devices, during a joint raid on inmate cells. The operation, involving police, military, and the National Narcotics Agency, culminated in a "Zero Halinar" pledge aimed at eliminating illegal handphones, drugs, and extortion within the facility. This initiative underscores ongoing efforts to enforce stricter regulations and maintain order in Indonesia's correctional institutions.

Cell Search Uncovers Mobile Phones, Indramayu Prison Tightens Surveillance

Authorities at Indramayu Class IIB Prison conducted a joint raid on Friday, uncovering prohibited items including mobile phones and plates within inmates' cells, prompting stricter oversight measures. The operation, involving police, military, and the National Narcotics Agency, included an oath-taking ceremony for a "Zero Halinar" initiative aimed at eliminating illegal handphones, drugs, and extortion. This effort underscores the prison's commitment to maintaining order and preventing contraband from compromising rehabilitation and security.

Caught in the crosshairs: China’s pushback against US sanctions signals tougher era for global business

China has for the first time enforced its 2021 Blocking Rules in response to US sanctions on five Chinese refiners for trading Iranian oil, prohibiting compliance with these measures to protect national interests. This escalation, timed ahead of the Trump-Xi summit, highlights intensifying US-China strategic rivalry over energy security and supply chains, placing multinational companies in a compliance dilemma between conflicting legal systems. Analysts view it as Beijing building a legal fortress, potentially affecting banks, insurers, and firms in strategic sectors beyond immediate oil trade.

Commentary: China's invisible hand is rebalancing the oil market

Amid the global energy crisis triggered by conflict in the Persian Gulf, China has significantly reduced its oil imports by about a quarter from pre-war levels, freeing up supply for the wider market and helping to cap benchmark prices near US$100 per barrel. This reduction stems from halting the build-up of emergency stockpiles, potential economic slowdowns affecting demand, and a shift in the petrochemical sector towards coal-based feedstocks, allowing Beijing to manage without tapping reserves or imposing drastic measures. The phenomenon underscores China's pivotal, understated role in stabilising the international oil market during supply disruptions.

Ministry of Law References UK's Single-Window Royalty System for Copyright Law Revision

Indonesia's Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) under the Ministry of Law is drawing on the UK's single-window royalty collection system to refine royalty governance in the revision of the Copyright Law. The UK model, implemented through PPL PRS Ltd since 2018, simplifies licensing for music users by consolidating processes into one licence, reducing administrative burdens while ensuring fair distribution to creators. This approach aims to enhance transparency, compliance, and protection for Indonesian creators amid digital disruptions.

Car Free Day Event in Jakarta on Jalan Rasuna Said This Morning: Check the Times and Route

Jakarta is expanding its Car Free Day (CFD) initiative to Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said in South Jakarta this Sunday, allowing residents to enjoy a vehicle-free zone for leisure activities. Governor Pramono Anung announced the event, which covers specific eastern and western segments of the road, with traffic diversions and alternative routes provided for motorists. This move aims to promote healthier urban living, similar to the longstanding CFD on Sudirman-Thamrin, and includes parking options and LRT access for convenience.

Legislator urges evaluation of Trans-Sumatra highway following bus accident

Following a fatal bus accident on the Trans-Sumatra highway in North Musi Rawas, South Sumatra, DPR RI Commission V member Zigo Rolanda has called for a comprehensive evaluation of the road's quality and accelerated repairs at vulnerable points. He emphasised the highway's critical role in Sumatra's economy and the need for stricter oversight on passenger vehicles carrying hazardous goods, urging the Ministries of Public Works and Transportation to enhance infrastructure maintenance and safety enforcement. The incident, which resulted in a major fire after the bus swerved to avoid a pothole, highlights ongoing risks to public safety and transport regulation in Indonesia.

Revitalisation of Pantura Ponds Opposed, Lucky Hakim Receives Monitor Lizard Gifts from Indramayu Shrimp Farmers

Shrimp farmers in Indramayu, united under the Koalisi Masyarakat Pesisir Indramayu (Kompi), protested at the regency office against the National Strategic Project (PSN) for the revitalisation of Pantura ponds, demanding its cancellation due to fears of mass unemployment, poverty, and ecological disasters. The project, covering 2,264 hectares, threatens the livelihoods of thousands of farmers who have relied on these ponds for decades and could exacerbate coastal flooding and saltwater intrusion in the region. In a symbolic act of frustration over the regent Lucky Hakim's absence, protesters presented five monitor lizards as "gifts" and vowed to continue their opposition.

Kalimantan universities urged to leverage IKN for research and internships

The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology (Kemdiktisaintek) highlights the potential for Kalimantan's universities to integrate with the development of the Nusantara Capital (IKN), viewing it as Indonesia's largest living laboratory to enhance research, internships, and community service programs for students. House Commission X Chair Hetifah Sjaifudian stresses the need for clear roles among central government, local authorities, and higher education institutions to build a robust educational ecosystem, accelerating the creation of superior human resources towards Indonesia's Golden Vision 2045. This collaboration is expected to develop future-oriented curricula and position IKN as a hub for human resource development.

New Era for Sharia Banking Industry Following Issuance of POJK 4/2026 - Financial Business

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued POJK No. 4/2026, which clearly separates Sharia banking deposit products from investment products, defining the latter as funds entrusted under Sharia-compliant contracts where risks are borne by customers. This regulation, effective from 29 April 2026, mandates banks to adjust existing products within two years, aiming to restore the true nature of Sharia contracts, reduce uncertainties (gharar), and minimise disputes by segmenting customer offerings based on risk appetite. Experts and Bank Syariah Indonesia view it as a step towards sustainable growth, enhancing transparency, education, and real-sector linkages like SMEs and halal value chains, despite short-term operational costs.

Indramayu Car Free Night Route Extended: Here is the List of Locations

The Indramayu Regency government in West Java has extended the route for the weekly Car Free Night (CFN) event, shifting the starting point from Jalan S Parman to in front of the Communication and Informatics Office, extending to Jalan Ahmad Yani and ending at the Waiki traffic light, effective from 8 May 2026. This adjustment, initiated by Regent Lucky Hakim, aims to better support local UMKM by providing more space for vendors while enhancing order, safety, and comfort in the area. The event will continue from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM WIB, with specified road closures and designated parking areas to facilitate smooth operations and benefit the community and local businesses.

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital: Jayapura Balmon Plays Vital Role in Safeguarding National Sovereignty

Deputy Minister of Communication and Digital, Angga Raka Prabowo, has emphasised the crucial role of the Class II Jayapura Radio Frequency Spectrum Monitoring Agency (Balmon SFR) in maintaining national sovereignty and security through vigilant monitoring of radio frequencies. He highlighted the President's concern over frequency management and praised the agency's frontline efforts in Papua's challenging geographical and security environment to ensure optimal utilisation for public services. Angga expressed appreciation for the staff's dedication and encouraged continuous education to better serve the nation and future generations.

Economist: Consistency in Food Production Key to Controlling Inflation in 2026

Economist Ninasapti Triaswati from the University of Indonesia emphasises that maintaining consistent national food production, particularly rice, is crucial for ensuring economic stability and controlling inflation through 2026 amid global uncertainties. She highlights the agriculture sector's pivotal role in driving growth, as evidenced by its 1.11% contribution to the 5.61% year-on-year GDP expansion in the first quarter of 2026, and notes that stable rice supplies and self-sufficiency have helped mitigate inflationary pressures on essential goods. With government rice reserves exceeding 5 million tonnes, this resilience bolsters food security and supports employment in agriculture, including growing interest from young people.

OJK Strengthens Competitiveness of Sharia Banking, Investment Products Now Regulated More Strictly and...

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) has issued a new regulation, POJK Number 4 of 2026, on the Implementation of Sharia Banking Investment Products, aimed at enhancing transparency, customer protection, and the global competitiveness of Indonesia's sharia banking sector. This policy clearly separates deposit products from investment products based on profit-sharing and risk principles, aligning with the 2023 Financial Sector Development and Strengthening Law and building on prior regulations. Effective from 29 April 2026, the rule is expected to foster innovation, boost public trust, and contribute to national economic growth by promoting a more accountable and sustainable sharia investment ecosystem.

REI Explores Property Investment Opportunities in Lampung's New City Area

The Indonesian Real Estate Companies Association (REI) has expressed interest in investing in the Bandar Negara New City (KBN) area following an invitation from the Lampung Provincial Government, driven by the region's significant economic growth and supportive local policies. REI's Chairman, Joko Suranto, highlighted Lampung's third-highest economic growth rate in Sumatra and its strategic proximity to Java as key attractions, while emphasising the need for thorough due diligence on regulations, market potential, and infrastructure challenges like flooding. Potential sectors include warehousing, tourism, and housing, with REI planning field verifications to mitigate risks before proceeding.