Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 May 2026

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World's Bestselling Car Brand, It Turns Out Its Owner is an Indonesian Conglomerate

Toyota dominates the global automotive market as the top-selling brand in 41% of countries analysed, thanks to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and extensive distribution network. In Indonesia, Toyota's stronghold is bolstered by a strategic partnership with Astra International since 1971, which has integrated local distribution with global production capabilities. This collaboration, exemplified by the iconic Kijang model, underscores the deep-rooted presence of the Japanese giant in the Indonesian market amid rising domestic support for local manufacturers worldwide.

Video: Business Owners Urge Government to Simplify People's Palm Replanting Programme

Indonesian palm oil business leaders, led by GAPKI Chairman Eddy Martono, have called on the government to expedite the People's Palm Replanting Programme (PSR) to address production stagnation and support smallholder farmers with funding of Rp60 million per hectare. Despite current Crude Palm Oil (CPO) production of 51 million tonnes meeting domestic needs, including the B50 biodiesel initiative, any failure to boost output amid rising internal demand could reduce exports and destabilise global prices. The group also attributes recent MinyakKita shortages to a 30% export drop from geopolitical conflicts, lowering the Domestic Market Obligation (DMO) and overall supply.

Transportation Expert: ALS Deadly Tragedy a Portrait of Systemic Failure

A fatal accident involving an ALS bus and a fuel tanker in North Musi Rawas on 6 May 2026 claimed 18 lives, highlighting Indonesia's systemic failures in road transport safety amid claims of infrastructure modernisation. Expert Djoko Setijowarno from Unika Soegijapranata and the Indonesian Transportation Society criticises the government's neglect of safety budgets and institutional strengthening, noting that over 100 daily road fatalities disproportionately affect productive young people. He urges comprehensive interventions beyond road paving, including strict driver standards and full implementation of the Public Transport Safety Management System under ministerial regulations, to address the national road safety emergency.

1,300 Solok Residents Reject Social Assistance Because They Feel Capable, Deputy Regent Reveals Data Collection Details

Over 1,300 families in Solok Regency, West Sumatra, have voluntarily withdrawn from receiving social assistance, citing their economic self-sufficiency, as revealed by Deputy Regent Candra. This development follows the local government's transparency initiative of labelling homes of aid recipients, which has encouraged eligible families to opt out. The effort underscores Solok's commitment to accurate data verification in collaboration with the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) and social services to ensure aid reaches those truly in need, enhancing the effectiveness of poverty alleviation programmes.

Teacher Group Questions the Fate of Non-Permanent Teachers Not Entered into Dapodik by 2024

The Indonesian Teachers' Federation (FSGI) has raised concerns over the future of non-permanent teachers not registered in the Basic Education Data (Dapodik) system as of 2024, following the government's plan to ban them from teaching in public schools starting in 2027. FSGI emphasises the need to include these educators in the transition to formal government contract workers (PPPK) status, warning that exclusion could leave many without jobs despite their current roles. This policy shift, mandated by the ASN Law and a ministerial circular, aims to restructure non-civil servant teachers but risks burdening local budgets and perpetuating inadequate pay if not handled equitably.

US Car Prices Soar Within Less Than a Decade

Car prices in the United States have surged dramatically over the past decade, with the average new vehicle now exceeding $49,000, up from $35,000 to $37,000 a decade ago, according to a report by The Century Foundation and Protect Borrowers. This rise has driven total car loan spending to a projected $1.68 trillion by 2025, a 37% increase from 2018, amid lengthening loan terms and high interest rates that disproportionately burden lower-income borrowers. The trend highlights a market shift towards affluent buyers, exacerbating affordability issues and financial risks for average consumers through extended repayments that often exceed the vehicle's original cost.

Enhancing Public Services, BTN Strengthens Collaboration with Tapanuli Utara Regency Government

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN) has deepened its partnership with the Tapanuli Utara Regency Government through three strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), focusing on banking services, public hospital solutions, and operational development with local enterprises. This collaboration aims to support regional financial management, enhance public service transactions, optimise local revenue, and bolster micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in an economy driven by agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and tourism around Lake Toba. BTN's President Director Nixon LP Napitupulu emphasised the bank's role as an ecosystem enabler beyond housing finance, aligning with the region's 4.58% economic growth in 2025 and its status as a national super-priority tourism destination.

Celebrating 53rd Anniversary Peak, ASDP's Performance Continues to Grow with Sustainable Impact Services

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry marked its 53rd anniversary with the ASDP Charity Run event, highlighting its commitment to sustainable impacts on society, the environment, and national transportation services. Despite facing several maritime incidents in 2025, the company maintained a ship accident rate of 0.220 percent, better than its target, while achieving significant growth in ferry services to remote areas with over 93,000 trips and 556,000 vehicle transports. Financially, ASDP reported business revenue of Rp4.96 trillion and consolidated profit of Rp285.4 billion, underscoring its role in enhancing national connectivity and economic development.

Deputy Speaker of DPR Sends Off 438 Hajj Pilgrims from Bandung Regency at Kertajati

The Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal, sent off 438 Hajj pilgrims from Bandung Regency at Kertajati Airport, emphasising the importance of health, compliance with rules, and pure intentions for a blessed pilgrimage. He highlighted the government's plan to send approximately 221,000 pilgrims this year, managed for the first time by the new Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, aimed at enhancing service quality. Cucun urged pilgrims to pray for Indonesia's prosperity and justice, while encouraging officials to provide proactive support to ensure a smooth and professional Hajj experience.

Gus Ipul Reveals Potential Candidates for PBNU Chairmanship: Including Nasaruddin Umar, Gus Yahya, and Said Aqil

Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul and the Secretary General of PBNU, has stated that he will not run for the position of General Chairman at the 35th NU Congress, citing unmet eligibility requirements. He highlighted potential candidates such as Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar, current PBNU Chairman Yahya Cholil Staquf, and former Chairman KH Said Aqil Siradj, all of whom have previously served as Chief Secretaries. Gus Ipul assured that the congress, scheduled for August 2026, will proceed smoothly without political interference from the government, with full support from the President for the organisation's internal mechanisms.

ESG Commitment Provides Company Protection During Global Crises - Babel Insight

Commitment to ESG principles offers Indonesian companies a protective buffer against the adverse effects of interconnected global crises, enhancing their resilience and competitive positioning. According to Jalal, Chairperson of the Advisory Board of Social Investment Indonesia, firms with strong ESG performance experience more moderate declines during downturns and faster recoveries, potentially emerging stronger in an 'antifragile' manner. Viewing ESG as a strategic investment rather than a cost is key, allowing companies to maintain long-term sustainability goals even under pressure.

Minister of Human Rights' Special Staff: Press Freedom is a Fundamental Right

Thomas Harming Suwarta, Special Staff to the Minister of Human Rights, has reaffirmed that press freedom is a fundamental human right, obligating the state to ensure its respect, protection, enforcement, advancement, and fulfilment. Speaking at a fun walk event marking World Press Freedom Day 2026 in Jakarta, he highlighted the government's commitment under President Prabowo to foster a free, independent media ecosystem that supports public interests and human rights. The Ministry plans to offer special human rights training for journalists to enhance literacy and protection, while the Press Council emphasised the event's role in reinforcing journalistic principles.

Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education: 74 Percent of Local Governments Have Prepared SPMB Guidelines

The Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education reports that 74 percent of local governments have completed technical guidelines for the 2026/2027 new student admission system (SPMB), with the remaining 26 percent in finalisation stages. Key updates include empowering provincial education quality assurance bodies to calculate school capacities based on available classrooms, adjusted to national standards, and locking data in the education database to prevent seat-selling practices. This initiative, aligned with local government laws, emphasises ensuring access for all students, particularly through private school involvement and financial aid for underprivileged families.

Computers Not Selling, Threatened with No One Wanting to Buy Laptops

The global computer market is facing a downturn due to the AI boom, which has led to a shortage of consumer-grade components as manufacturers prioritise AI chips, causing motherboard sales to plummet by up to 37% for major producers like Asus, Gigabyte, MSI, and ASRock in 2026. With rising prices for essentials like RAM, SSDs, and processors, and a lack of innovative new products from companies such as AMD, Intel, and Nvidia, consumers are delaying upgrades and sticking with older devices. While this poses challenges for the PC industry, some firms are pivoting to AI server production to capitalise on data centre growth, leaving consumers with higher costs but potential discounts on excess stock.

Salak products level up, BRI brings SALAKU to penetrate global markets at FHA 2026 in Singapore

PT Salaku Cara Enak Makan Salak (SALAKU), a Bekasi-based SME specialising in innovative, zero-waste salak-based snacks, is showcasing its products at the Food & Hospitality Asia (FHA) 2026 in Singapore, supported by Bank Rakyat Indonesia's (BRI) UMKM EXPORT empowerment programme. This participation highlights the potential of local commodities to gain international appeal through enhanced product quality, packaging, and export training provided by BRI. The event offers SALAKU direct interactions with global buyers, fostering export opportunities and demonstrating how SMEs can elevate their competitiveness in the global market.

Yogyakarta Health Department Continues to Heighten Vigilance to Prevent Hantavirus Transmission

The Yogyakarta Special Region Health Department (Dinkes DIY) is maintaining heightened early vigilance to prevent hantavirus transmission, despite no confirmed cases reported in 2026. Officials emphasise the zoonotic disease's spread via infected rodents through contact with urine, saliva, or droppings, urging the public to adopt clean and healthy living practices such as maintaining home hygiene and handwashing to mitigate risks. While six cases were recorded in 2025 across local districts with full recovery and no further transmission, ongoing active surveillance and prompt medical consultation for symptoms like fever and shortness of breath are recommended to ensure swift handling.

Eradicating Blank Spots, Andre Rosiade Inaugurates Telkomsel BTS in South Malalak, West Sumatra

Indonesian MP Andre Rosiade has inaugurated a new Telkomsel Base Transceiver Station (BTS) in South Malalak, West Sumatra, to eliminate mobile signal dead zones following a recent earthquake, emphasising the role of digital infrastructure in boosting economic recovery and access to education and public services. Accompanied by local officials, Rosiade highlighted collaborations between the government, parliament, and state-owned enterprises like Telkomsel in addressing community needs, with plans to install an additional tower in West Malalak for comprehensive coverage. Community leaders praised his efforts, noting the increase from two to four towers, while urging collective support for post-disaster development in the region.

Officials Implement Open-Close System at Ajyad Terminal to Ensure Hajj Pilgrims' Safety

Saudi Arabian Hajj Organising Officials (PPIH) have introduced an open-close door system at Makkah's Ajyad Terminal to enhance the safety and comfort of Indonesian prospective Hajj pilgrims by preventing overcrowding and accidents during bus boarding. Based on evaluations from previous Hajj seasons, the system regulates pilgrim movements through dedicated walkways and barriers, allowing orderly entry and efficient transport, with queues cleared in under an hour after evening prayers. Officials urge group leaders to keep pilgrims calm during peak times and plan further improvements, including better coordination for returns from Masjidil Haram and additional exit points to streamline transportation to hotels.

Indonesia plans new e-commerce rules after seller complaints

Indonesia's Trade Minister Budi Santoso has announced plans to revise the Trade Minister Regulation on the e-commerce ecosystem in response to complaints from small sellers about high administrative and logistics fees on platforms. The revisions aim to bolster protection for local products, particularly from micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), improve consumer safeguards, and prioritise the promotion of domestic goods on e-commerce sites. Discussions involving platforms, sellers, and other stakeholders are ongoing to foster a mutually beneficial environment that enhances the overall ecosystem.

Police to Examine Owner and Lessee of Building Used as Online Gambling Headquarters in West Jakarta's Hayam Wuruk

Indonesian police from Bareskrim Polri are investigating the owner and lessee of a building in Hayam Wuruk, West Jakarta, where 321 foreign nationals were arrested for operating an international online gambling network. The raid, conducted on 9 May 2026, uncovered organised gambling activities that had been running for two months in a one-year leased space, with authorities planning to trace the suppliers of gambling equipment. This operation aligns with President Prabowo Subianto's directives to combat such crimes, highlighting ongoing efforts to dismantle cross-border illegal operations within Indonesia.

Victims of Clash Between Two Villages in East Flores Increase to Seven People

The death toll from the clash between Narasaosina and Waiburak villages in East Adonara Subdistrict, East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, has risen to seven, with an additional victim, 24-year-old Fildan Ahmad from Bele Village, suffering a head wound and being referred to Lewoleba Regional General Hospital. The conflict, triggered by unresolved customary land disputes, resulted in six houses being burned and six residents shot with homemade bullets, following a similar incident in March 2026 that also caused injuries and property damage. Despite mediation efforts by the East Flores Regency Government in February 2026, tensions persist, highlighting ongoing challenges in resolving inter-village disputes in the region.

Launching CFD on Rasuna Said, Pramono: We Want to Show Jakarta is Improving and Gaining a New Icon

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has initiated a new Car Free Day (CFD) event on Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said in South Jakarta to highlight the ongoing urban revitalisation efforts in the area, aiming to transform it into a new city icon. The improvements, inspired by national heroine Hajjah Rangkayo Rasuna Said, include road widening and the refurbishment of abandoned monorail pillars, with completion targeted for next month. The event, which saw enthusiastic public participation on its first day, will officially commence on 1 June 2026, aligning with the schedule of the existing CFD on Sudirman-Thamrin.

Harvesting Crystals on the Indramayu Coast

In the coastal village of Juntinyuat, Indramayu, West Java, local farmers like Sujitno are turning to salt production using innovative tunnel systems to tap into the region's untapped potential, aiming to reduce Indonesia's reliance on imported salt. Despite the harsh coastal conditions, these efforts have yielded high-quality, white salt crystals that are attracting buyers, including fish processors, due to their cleanliness and ability to preserve product colour. This diversification offers a promising long-term income source for coastal communities amid rising agricultural costs and unpredictable weather.

Ministry of Public Works: Infrastructure Must Be Utilisable by the Community

The Ministry of Public Works has instructed an acceleration of irrigation infrastructure repairs in Lampung by increasing the workforce, aiming for completion within two weeks to restore functionality for local farmers. During an inspection in Mesuji-Tulang Bawang, Director A Adi Umar Dani emphasised evaluating and optimising water pumps to enhance efficiency and benefits for agricultural lands. This initiative underscores the ministry's commitment to ensuring built infrastructure is maximally utilised by communities in Mesuji and Tulang Bawang districts.

Ministry of Environment Partners with Labour Unions to Green Upstream Bandung by Planting 12,000 Trees

The Ministry of Environment and Forestry has collaborated with labour unions to plant nearly 12,000 trees in Pasir Jambu, Bandung Regency, West Java, as part of a cross-sectoral effort to restore the environment, preserve water catchment areas, and mitigate flood risks in Greater Bandung. Minister Mohammad Jumhur Hidayat hopes this initiative will inspire a national greening campaign, involving workers, businesses, and government, amid Indonesia's need to restore 12.4 million hectares of land. Bandung Regent Dadang Supriatna plans to mandate the 90,000 local workers to each plant at least two trees to rehabilitate critical lands, addressing the conversion of 942.68 hectares of agricultural land to buildings over the past decade.

Bond Stabilisation Fund Prepared to Dampen Bond Volatility, Economist Says It Only "Buys Time"

The Indonesian government plans to reactivate the Bond Stabilisation Fund (BSF) to maintain stability in the domestic bond market amid global volatility and pressure on the rupiah, with Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa stating it will facilitate buybacks of government securities (SBN) when yields rise sharply. Economist Yusuf Rendy Manilet from CORE Indonesia views the BSF as an escalation of prior efforts, such as government fund placements in state-owned banks to absorb SBN, but warns it is merely a temporary measure to curb panic selling rather than addressing fundamental economic issues like fiscal risks and debt interest burdens. While it may stabilise yields in the short term, excessive intervention could distort market prices and hinder accurate assessments of Indonesia's underlying risks in the medium term.

Can Non-DKI Residents Print Their ID Cards in Jakarta? Check the Regulations!

Non-residents of Jakarta, particularly those from outside the Bodetabek area, can print their e-KTPs in Jakarta under specific quotas and requirements set by the DKI Jakarta Population and Civil Registration Office. The service prioritises Jakarta residents, limiting non-residents to 15 cards per day at the main office and 5 at sub-offices, requiring personal attendance and necessary documents like family cards and forms. Additionally, the process for changing domicile has been simplified per Ministry of Home Affairs regulations, eliminating the need for RT/RW recommendation letters and allowing direct applications at the civil registry office.

When the Lives of the People are Crushed by National Budget Efficiency

A fatal bus accident in North Musi Rawas on 6 May 2026 claimed 18 lives, highlighting the collapse of Indonesia's road transport safety oversight and funding systems amid daily fatalities exceeding 100. Expert Djoko emphasises that budget cuts to the National Transport Safety Committee (KNKT) and the Ministry of Transportation neglect constitutional duties to public safety, with over 70% of victims aged 11-55 and significant contributions from infrastructure and vehicle issues. He calls for restructuring institutions, financial commitment, and full implementation of the Public Transport Safety Management System (SMK-PAU) to address fatigue, inspections, and compliance beyond mere road fixes.

Cabinet Secretary Reveals Reasons Why Prabowo Brought the Maung to the ASEAN Summit in the Philippines

Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya has explained that President Prabowo Subianto's use of the domestically produced Maung MV3 Garuda Limousine tactical vehicle at the 48th ASEAN Summit in Cebu, Philippines, serves as a symbol of Indonesia's industrial progress, national independence, and confidence on the global stage. The vehicle, developed by PT Pindad, was transported via TNI AU Airbus A400M aircraft and represents a diplomatic showcase of strategic national products. This move underscores Indonesia's readiness to promote its homegrown innovations internationally during key diplomatic engagements.

Disaster Strikes in China: Many Young Graduates with 'Rotten Tails'

China is facing a severe youth unemployment crisis, with millions of university graduates struggling to find jobs matching their qualifications amid economic slowdowns and intense competition. The phenomenon, dubbed "rotten tail kids," reflects young people forced into low-paying roles or dependency on parents, eroding traditional career aspirations and prompting cultural shifts like "lying flat." The government has outlined urgent measures, including subsidies and job creation targets, to address the mismatch between education and employment opportunities as record numbers enter the workforce this year.

Shell Diesel Fuel Returns to Availability, Price Surges to Rp 30,890 per Litre

Shell Indonesia has resumed supplying its V-Power Diesel fuel at petrol stations after shortages since early 2026, with prices now at Rp 30,890 per litre due to soaring global oil prices triggered by the US-Israel war against Iran. Pertamina has also adjusted its non-subsidised fuel prices, raising Pertamax Turbo to Rp 19,900 per litre and Dex Series diesel variants to Rp 26,000 and Rp 27,900 per litre, while keeping subsidised and other RON 92/95 fuels stable. This development highlights the impact of geopolitical tensions on Indonesia's fuel market, affecting consumers and the energy sector amid rising costs.

Travel Agent Owner in Labuan Bajo Named Suspect for Defrauding Foreign Tourists of Rp 85 Million

The owner of a travel agency in Labuan Bajo, West Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, has been named a suspect and detained for allegedly embezzling Rp 85.2 million from a group of Malaysian and Singaporean tourists intending to visit Komodo National Park. The incident highlights vulnerabilities in the tourism sector, with the suspect admitting to using the funds for personal purposes, leading to failed bookings for premium accommodations and boat services. The case is being prosecuted under Indonesia's new Criminal Code, carrying a potential penalty of up to four years in prison, while the affected tourists were able to continue their trip with alternative arrangements facilitated by local authorities.

IMF: Cyber Attacks Not Only Target Banks, Telecommunications Networks Could Shut Down Completely

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that artificial intelligence (AI) could transform cyber attacks into a systemic threat to the global financial system, enabling hackers to exploit vulnerabilities faster than institutions can patch them. The IMF highlights the interconnected digital infrastructure shared across finance, energy, telecommunications, and public services, which could lead to widespread disruptions if not managed properly. Amid broader concerns, studies show AI's misuse in facilitating serious crimes like human trafficking and violent attacks, underscoring the need for enhanced resilience and regulatory oversight.

South Korean Airlines Cut Hundreds of Flights Due to Rising Oil Prices

South Korean low-cost carriers have slashed around 900 round-trip flights and introduced unpaid leave and other emergency measures in response to surging jet fuel prices triggered by the US-Iran conflict in the Middle East. Major airlines like Jeju Air and Asiana Airlines have reduced international routes to destinations in Southeast Asia and beyond, while Korean Air monitors the situation closely amid weakening travel demand and a depreciating Korean won. Analysts predict second-quarter losses for the industry, particularly affecting financially vulnerable low-cost operators, highlighting the broader economic ripple effects of geopolitical tensions on global aviation.

North Halmahera Regency Permanently Closes Mount Dukono Climbing Activities

The North Halmahera Regency government has issued a permanent closure of all climbing activities to Mount Dukono due to heightened volcanic activity, placing the volcano at Alert Level II and posing risks from volcanic ash to climbers and nearby residents. The decision, outlined in an official circular dated 8 May 2026, instructs local officials to enforce strict monitoring, block all access points, and impose severe sanctions on violators to safeguard public safety. As one of North Malukus most active volcanoes, Mount Duko's eruptions frequently affect settlements and flight paths, underscoring the importance of this precautionary measure in disaster risk management.

Global Oil Inventories Shrink by 4.8 Million Barrels, Reaching Lowest Level Since 2018

Global oil inventories have plummeted by approximately 4.8 million barrels per day between 1 March and 25 April, driven by the ongoing US-Israel war against Iran that has disrupted crude oil flows from the Gulf region following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This decline has pushed reserves to their lowest levels since 2018, with energy executives warning that the trend will persist in the short term amid continued supply disruptions, even if the strait reopens. Major fuel-consuming nations are increasingly relying on strategic reserves, raising fears of highly unstable market conditions persisting beyond the conflict's resolution.

Indonesia and Korea strengthen literacy cooperation

The National Library of Indonesia (Perpusnas) has received a donation of 150 Korean-language books and magazines from the South Korean Consulate General in Jakarta, aimed at enriching the "Window of Korea" section and promoting deeper cultural understanding beyond social media. This initiative, which includes storytelling competitions and bookmark-making activities, builds on prior collaborations to foster literacy and cross-cultural exchange between the two nations. The effort underscores Seoul's commitment to enhancing public engagement with Korean traditions, literature, and education, potentially boosting interest in Korea among Indonesians.

Meta Officially Removes Encryption Feature in Instagram DMs

Meta has announced the removal of the optional end-to-end encryption feature in Instagram's Direct Messages, effective from 8 May 2026, citing low user adoption. This decision means that DM contents may no longer be fully private, potentially allowing access by Meta's internal teams, prompting users to switch to WhatsApp or Facebook for encrypted messaging. The move highlights ongoing debates about privacy versus content moderation in social platforms.

Video: From B50 to RKAB 2026, New Challenges and Opportunities for Indonesia's Heavy Equipment Business

Davin Christian, Marketing Director of PT Equipindo Perkasa and Deputy Chairman II of the Indonesian Heavy Equipment Agents Association (PAABI), highlights the challenges facing Indonesia's heavy equipment industry amid 2026 geopolitical turbulence, including global commodity price pressures and production quota cuts for coal and nickel in the 2026 RKAB, which are dampening demand. Despite these hurdles, industry players anticipate government support through mineral and coal downstreaming projects and accelerated Waste to Energy (WTE) initiatives to boost demand. PAABI has adapted heavy equipment engines for compatibility with B50 biodiesel, positioning the sector for potential growth.

US-China Meeting: The Strengths of Both Countries and Leaked Agenda Details

The upcoming strategic meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on 14-15 May 2026 marks the first of four planned face-to-face engagements by the end of the year, amid fluctuating bilateral relations that could significantly impact global AI development, supply chains, and conflicts in Taiwan and the Middle East. Economic projections highlight the US's dominance with a projected GDP of US$32.38 trillion (25.6% of global output) and China's robust growth at 4.4% to US$20.85 trillion, alongside strong export performances and shifts in global economic power towards Asia. Key agenda items include resolving trade disputes, tariff escalations, supply chain restructurings, and emerging issues in geopolitics, cybersecurity, and future technologies, aiming to mitigate destructive conflicts and maintain global market stability.

Indonesian Police Transfer 321 Foreign Nationals Involved in International Online Gambling to Immigration Offices

Indonesian National Police (Polri) have transferred 321 foreign nationals arrested in a major crackdown on an international online gambling network in West Jakarta to various immigration offices for further examination and processing. This coordinated effort with immigration authorities aims to deepen investigations into their identities, potential immigration violations, and roles in the cross-border operation, highlighting the growing complexity of combating digital gambling syndicates. The action underscores Polri's commitment to integrated enforcement against both criminal and immigration offences in such cases.

BI Survey: Q1 2026, Residential Property Transactions Plummet 25.67%

Indonesia's primary residential property sector started 2026 on a worrying note, with Bank Indonesia's latest Residential Property Price Survey revealing a slowdown in price growth acceleration alongside a sharp 25.67% aggregate drop in transaction volumes. This reversal from the previous quarter's 7.83% growth highlights the middle-class consumers as the mainstay of the sector, while financing remains heavily reliant on developers' internal funds and home ownership loans, which are sensitive to interest rate fluctuations. The findings underscore the need for strategic upstream interventions to bolster market absorption amid this desacceleration.

"Maung" Prabowo Rolls Out in the Philippines Thanks to TNI AU's Airbus A400M

President Prabowo Subianto's tactical vehicle, the Maung MV3 Garuda Limousine produced by PT Pindad, was transported to Cebu, Philippines, via TNI Air Force's Airbus A400M for use during the 48th ASEAN Summit on 7-8 May 2026. This deployment highlights Indonesia's logistical preparedness and confidence in its domestic defence industry, positioning the vehicle as a symbol of national self-reliance and diplomatic prowess on the international stage. The Maung's presence at the regional forum underscores the advancement of Indonesia's strategic products in supporting high-level state agendas in Southeast Asia.

Government Seizes Treasure Worth Rp 15 Trillion, Leaving Its Discoverer in Poverty

In 1965, Mat Sam, a resident of Kampung Cempaka in South Kalimantan, discovered a massive 166.75-carat diamond valued at an estimated Rp 15.22 trillion in today's terms, but the government seized it and presented it to President Soekarno without granting him ownership. Despite promises of rewards, including a free Hajj pilgrimage, Mat Sam and his fellow finders were left in dire poverty, highlighting historical injustices in Indonesia's handling of natural resource discoveries. The case, documented in period newspapers, underscores the tensions between individual finds and state claims on valuable minerals, with no record of whether justice was ultimately served.

Attended by 25,000 Workers, Tangerang's 2026 May Day Peak Features Fishing 5 Tons of Fish and Social Services

The peak celebration of International Labour Day 2026 in Tangerang Regency, Banten, drew around 25,000 workers from various sectors, featuring activities such as communal fishing with 5 tons of stocked fish, affordable food bazaars, and social services. Local government officials, including Regent Moch Maesyal Rasyid and Banten Governor Andra Soni, participated to foster unity between authorities, labour unions, and the private sector, distributing CSR aid like cooking oil and health check-ups. The event underscores the collaborative spirit driving regional development and highlights positive suggestions for expanding sports activities in future celebrations.

LPSK: Victims and Witnesses in Pati Ponpes Abuse Case Allegedly Intimidated

The Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK) has reported allegations of intimidation, threats of counter-lawsuits, and inducements to settle against victims and witnesses in a sexual abuse case at the Ndholo Kusumo Islamic Boarding School in Pati, Central Java, involving its founder AS, who allegedly abused 30 to 50 underage female students. LPSK has conducted outreach, coordinated with local authorities and religious bodies, and committed to providing security, legal aid, psychological support, and identity confidentiality to encourage testimony, amid efforts to halt the legal process through bribes and manipulation using religious authority. The suspect was designated on 28 April 2024 and detained on 7 May 2024, charged under child protection and sexual violence laws, while the boarding school's operations have been revoked to facilitate student transfers.

Productive Financing from Online Loans Reaches Rp 34.66 Trillion as of March 2026, Still Below OJK Target

The Financial Services Authority (OJK) reports that productive financing from the online loan (pinjol) industry reached Rp 34.66 trillion by March 2026, marking a 23.40% year-on-year growth but remaining below the regulatory target. Despite consumer financing dominating at 67.09% of total outstanding loans as of November 2025, OJK remains optimistic and plans to enhance credit analysis and distribution capacities to boost the productive sector's share towards the 40-50% goal set in the 2023-2028 roadmap. This development underscores ongoing efforts to balance financial inclusion with prudent lending practices in Indonesia's fintech sector.

Savings Sukuk ST016 Open Until 3 June 2026, Coupon 6.25 Percent per Year

The Indonesian government has launched the retail Savings Sukuk series ST016, available from 8 May to 3 June 2026, offering a 6.25 percent annual yield compliant with sharia principles. Investors can choose between two-year and four-year tenors, with minimum investments starting at Rp 1 million and maximum limits up to Rp 10 billion, distributed through platforms like PT Mandiri Sekuritas' Growin’. Amid global geopolitical uncertainties, officials highlight ST016 as a secure, state-guaranteed alternative that strengthens investment fundamentals in volatile markets.

Hercules Claims He Was Offered Hundreds of Billions to Not Support Prabowo

Hercules Rosario Marshal, Chairman of the Gerakan Rakyat Indonesia Bersatu (GRIB) Jaya, has revealed that he was approached by a two-star general from a political party who offered him hundreds of billions of rupiah to abandon his support for Prabowo Subianto during the 2024 presidential election. Despite the substantial bribe, Hercules firmly rejected the offer, citing his unwavering commitment and nationalistic loyalty to Prabowo, whom he believed must become president. His organisation, GRIB Jaya, ultimately contributed to Prabowo's successful election as Indonesia's eighth president, highlighting the intense political manoeuvrings and temptations in the lead-up to the polls.

Post-Flood Rice Field Rehabilitation in Sumatra Urged as Indonesia's Food Security Strategy

Deputy Chairman of the Indonesian House of Representatives' Commission IV, Alex Indra Lukman, has called for the rehabilitation of tens of thousands of hectares of flood-damaged rice fields in Aceh and Sumatra to be integrated into the nation's long-term food security strategy, beyond mere physical restoration. He emphasised the need for targeted rehabilitation to swiftly restore farmers' planting capacity, strengthening agricultural infrastructure like irrigation and drainage to mitigate future disasters, and providing economic support to affected farmers who often lose production capital and livelihoods. This approach aims to safeguard national food production stability, distribution, and prices amid recurring natural calamities.