Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 May 2026

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Summoned by Prabowo, Gus Ipul to Report on Social Assistance and People's School

Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf, known as Gus Ipul, will brief President Prabowo Subianto on the progress of key ministry programmes, including data updates, targeted social assistance distribution, and preparations for the People's School initiative starting in July 2026. The People's School aims to enrol 32,000 students this year, bringing the total to over 46,000 when combined with last year's 15,000-plus participants, as part of broader efforts to empower productive-age citizens and combat poverty. This meeting is part of Prabowo's consultations with several Cabinet officials on strategic government initiatives.

Jakarta Toll Road Congestion Spreads on Tuesday Afternoon, from Senayan to Cawang

Heavy traffic congestion spread across several sections of Jakarta's Inner City Toll Road on Tuesday afternoon (12/5/2026), particularly from Senayan towards Cawang, due to high vehicle volumes during rush hour. PT Jasa Marga reported dense traffic on routes to Kebon Jeruk and Cawang, as well as from Semanggi to Cawang, while advising caution around additional toll gates at Senayan. Ongoing road reconstruction and repair works on the Jakarta-Cikampek and Jagorawi toll roads were noted, with Jasa Marga urging drivers to remain vigilant and orderly in queue areas.

Indonesia Seen as Having Major Opportunities to Develop "Urban Air Mobility"

Denon Prawiraatmadja, Founder and CEO of Whitesky Group, has highlighted the significant potential for Indonesia to advance Urban Air Mobility (UAM) as part of a modern, integrated, and technology-driven national transportation transformation. Speaking at a Focus Group Discussion with ITS Indonesia, he noted that government initiatives in infrastructure, digitalisation, and connectivity provide a strong foundation for implementing UAM solutions to address urban density, inter-regional connectivity, and transport efficiency. Collaboration between regulators, industry, and organisations like ITS Indonesia is deemed essential to accelerate Indonesia's readiness for technology-based transportation in the future.

Bareskrim Accompanies Customs PPNS in Overseeing Transfer of Suspect in Customs Case

The Indonesian National Police's Bareskrim provided tactical and technical support to the Customs and Excise Directorate General's PPNS in transferring suspect GG and evidence in the second stage to the Ketapang District Prosecutor's Office. The transfer, related to alleged customs crimes under Article 102 letter a of Law No. 10 of 1995, involved medical checks and secure escort from Salemba Detention Centre via airports to Ketapang in West Kalimantan. Brigjen Edy Suranta Sitepu affirmed that the process was conducted professionally, accountably, and in line with procedures, upholding the presumption of innocence.

Facing Global Challenges, Deputy Interior Minister Emphasises the Importance of Regional Collaboration

Deputy Interior Minister Wiyagus has stressed the need for inter-regional collaboration in Indonesia to address global challenges such as energy crises, climate change, and geopolitical uncertainties. Speaking at an event in Semarang, he highlighted the significant economic contribution of Java's provinces, which account for over 57% of national growth, and urged stronger connectivity in logistics, trade, energy, and digital governance to bolster national resilience. He called on food-surplus regions to support others and for fiscally strong areas to drive regional development, while hoping the MPU forum will produce innovative strategies for issues like inflation control, food security, and disaster management.

East Jakarta Residents Transform Household Waste into Valuable Handicrafts

Residents of RW 12 in Malaka Jaya, East Jakarta, have turned household waste into high-value handicrafts such as bags, wallets, and eco-printed clothing, fostering both environmental awareness and economic opportunities. This initiative, stemming from concerns over the growing waste at Bantargebang landfill and supported by the provincial Climate Village certification, also includes skill-building in crafts and urban farming on a 700-square-metre plot. Local authorities praise the effort as aligning with Jakarta's waste separation policies, though challenges remain in expanding market access to boost community motivation.

State-Owned Giant Said to Boost Economic Growth

Indonesia's economic growth of 5.61% in the first quarter of 2026 is significantly supported by the transformation of state-owned enterprises (BUMNs), particularly blue-chip companies like Himbara banks, which maintain liquidity and financing for consumption and investment. Key BUMNs such as MIND ID, Pertamina, and Telkom Indonesia contribute through exports, energy sector strengthening, and digital connectivity, enhancing economic resilience amid global dynamics. However, experts note that overall BUMN contributions remain suboptimal, reliant on large firms, and could be amplified by accelerating high-value downstream investments like the electric vehicle battery industry via the Indonesia Battery Corporation consortium.

Central Lombok Regency Closes 25 Indomaret and Alfamart Outlets for Violating Regulations

The Central Lombok Regency government in West Nusa Tenggara has shut down 25 modern retail outlets, including 18 Alfamart and 7 Indomaret stores, for being located less than one kilometre from traditional markets, in enforcement of Local Regulation No. 7 of 2021 on the Arrangement and Development of People's Markets, Shopping Centres, and Supermarkets. This action, based on a cross-departmental review, aims to protect small traders and UMKM from unfair competition posed by the rapid expansion of chain stores into rural areas. The closures are initially temporary for one month, but are expected to become permanent to safeguard the local economy and grassroots businesses.

Is 20 May National Awakening Day a Holiday? Check the Schedule

The Indonesian government has confirmed that 20 May 2026, marking National Awakening Day (Harkitnas), is not a national holiday or collective leave day, as per the Joint Decree of Three Ministers on National Holidays and Collective Leave for 2026, meaning offices, schools, and public services will operate normally. This date commemorates the founding of Boedi Oetomo in 1908, a pivotal organisation in fostering national consciousness during colonial times, established by STOVIA students to promote education, social welfare, and cultural dignity for indigenous Indonesians. While not a holiday, the observance remains significant for reflecting on Indonesia's history of unity and struggle, with other holidays listed for the remainder of 2026 including religious and national commemorations.

Video: Strengthening Puskesmas and Posyandu to Extend Healthcare Services to Rural Areas

The Indonesian Ministry of Health is advancing the transformation of the national healthcare system through six key pillars, with a primary focus on enhancing primary healthcare services to ensure equitable access across communities. Director Elvieda Sariwati emphasises integrating services at Puskesmas, Posyandu, and other primary facilities to deliver comprehensive care from prenatal to elderly support, incorporating free health checks for early disease detection. This initiative aims to bolster preventive and promotive health efforts at the grassroots level, significantly improving rural healthcare outreach and public health awareness.

Viral Flying Object in Bekasi Sky Explained by BRIN

A video of a glowing white object flying in the sky over Bekasi, West Java, went viral on social media, prompting explanations from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). BRIN's astronomy coordinator identified the object as a bright meteor visible during the day, a common phenomenon. BRIN is also developing a website to monitor space debris potentially falling in Indonesia, highlighting ongoing efforts in space observation and public safety.

Reference Copper Prices Have Skyrocketed Wildly, Here Are the Data

The Indonesian government has observed a significant upward trend in mineral commodity prices for 2026 compared to 2025, particularly for copper mining outputs. According to Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources data, the Reference Mineral Price (HMA) for copper surpassed 10,000 US$/dmt since October 2025 Period II and reached up to 13,000 US$/dmt in February 2026 Period II, with an annual average of 12,655.16 US$/dmt—far exceeding the 2025 average of 9,819.48 US$/dmt. This surge, with monthly increases ranging from 27% to 47% year-on-year, underscores the strengthening global demand for copper and potential benefits for Indonesia's mining sector.

Puan ensures election law revision prioritises public interest

Indonesian House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has affirmed that discussions on revising the Election Law will prioritise principles of honesty, justice, and the interests of the people. This statement was made following a plenary session at the parliamentary complex in Senayan, Jakarta, on Tuesday (12/5). She noted that inter-faction and inter-party communications have been conducted, and the DPR, together with the government, will continue to foster open dialogue throughout the process.

PNUP Makassar Lecturer Suspected of Harassing 3 Female Students Deactivated

A lecturer from the Accounting Department at Politeknik Negeri Ujung Pandang (PNUP) Makassar, identified by the initials IS, has been temporarily suspended following allegations of sexually harassing three female students on campus. The university acted in accordance with Ministry of Education Regulation No. 55 of 2024 on the Prevention and Handling of Violence in Higher Education, imposing sanctions including a ban from campus premises and a demotion in academic rank for 12 months. The institution is providing psychological support to the victims through a trauma healing programme and has coordinated internally to ensure a comprehensive and victim-centred response.

Small Mistakes That Could Lead to the Revocation of Your PT PMA's Licence Without Warning

Indonesia's ongoing digital transformation and investment climate reforms are heightening compliance standards for foreign investors operating through PT PMA entities, particularly in sectors like property, hospitality, and tourism. The integrated Online Single Submission (OSS) system, aligned with Government Regulation No. 28 of 2025, enables cross-ministerial verification of company data, where even minor administrative errors—such as outdated addresses, mismatched business classifications, delayed investment reports, or unreported ownership changes—can flag businesses as non-compliant and risk licence revocation. This emphasis on maintaining the Nomor Induk Berusaha (NIB) underscores the government's push for sustained legal certainty and improved investment quality, urging investors to prioritise ongoing data maintenance to avoid severe operational disruptions.

BPI Kemendes: Ideal Village Development Based on Cultural Identity

The Head of the Village and Underdeveloped Areas Information Development Agency (BPI) at the Ministry of Villages and Underdeveloped Regions (Kemendes PDT), Mulyadin Malik, has emphasised that ideal village development must be rooted in local cultural identity amid economic transformation and modernisation. He stressed that economic changes should not erode social values, traditional customs, or the communal spirit of gotong royong in villages, advocating for a balanced approach that preserves the social character alongside physical and economic progress. Mulyadin highlighted the Ministry's broad mandate to empower diverse villages across Indonesia, underscoring that effective village governance is essential for national development, as "building villages builds Indonesia."

The Core Issues Surrounding KoinP2P: From Loan Defaults to Alleged Corruption

Three executives of PT Lunaria Annua Teknologi (KoinP2P), a peer-to-peer lending fintech subsidiary of KoinWorks, have been detained by the Jakarta High Prosecutor's Office on suspicion of corruption involving the manipulation of credit facilities worth approximately Rp 600 billion from Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI). The case stems from operational troubles since late 2024, initially triggered by fraud from a major borrower who allegedly absconded with lender funds, escalating into allegations of improper credit disbursements through manipulated collateral and inadequate analysis. This scandal highlights vulnerabilities in Indonesia's fintech sector, prompting stricter oversight from the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and raising concerns over regulatory compliance in P2P lending platforms.

Purbaya: EV Incentives to Curb Fuel Imports Amid High Global Oil Prices

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has outlined plans for electric vehicle (EV) incentives to significantly reduce fuel imports, particularly as global oil prices remain elevated due to prolonged conflicts involving the US, Israel, and Iran. The incentives, targeting 100,000 electric cars and 100,000 electric motorcycles this year with subsidies up to Rp5 million per motorcycle and 40-100% VAT coverage for cars, are set to be implemented from June 2026 to shift consumer patterns from fuel to electricity and bolster economic resilience. This policy leverages excess electricity capacity from PLN to optimise energy use and mitigate import pressures.

Japanese and US Finance Ministers Agree to Coordinate on Stabilising Yen Value

Japan's Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama and her US counterpart Scott Bessent have agreed to enhance coordination on currency market movements following Tokyo's intervention to curb the yen's depreciation against the dollar, amid Middle East tensions boosting the US dollar as a safe-haven asset. The ministers also discussed strengthening critical mineral supply chains in response to China's export restrictions, which Katayama described as 'bad and unfair' to Japan, and addressed AI security threats, urging Western coordination to prevent misuse by non-allies. This agreement underscores efforts to mitigate global financial volatility and geopolitical risks ahead of key international summits.

Government Reveals Reasons for Resuming Deployment of TNI Troops to Lebanon

The Indonesian government has decided to redeploy 742 TNI personnel as part of the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission in Lebanon in late May 2026, based on thorough strategic considerations including security assessments, risk mitigation, and UN commitments. Priorities such as personnel protection through force repositioning and contingency plans for early withdrawal underscore the emphasis on troop safety amid the volatile region. Foreign Minister Sugiono urged the troops to prepare diligently, highlighting the mission's role in upholding Indonesia's international reputation and constitutional mandate for peace.

Bahlil Reports to Prabowo on Fuel Stock: No Problems

Energy Minister Bahlil Lahadalia assured President Prabowo Subianto that Indonesia's fuel stocks, including BBM, crude oil, and LPG, are above national minimum standards and pose no issues. He also updated the president on efforts to reorganise unused mining permits, particularly in forest areas, prompting instructions for evaluation. Meanwhile, Coordinating Minister Muhaimin Iskandar reported on empowerment initiatives, poverty alleviation, job creation, and support for MSMEs through markets, training subsidies, and accessible financing.

Maros strives to maintain agricultural productivity amid shrinking paddy fields

The Maros Regency Agriculture and Food Security Service reports a reduction of approximately 1,700 hectares of productive paddy fields due to land conversion for housing, industry, and government strategic projects. To counter this challenge, the agency is focusing on boosting productivity by increasing the cropping index from one to three crops per year. This initiative aims to sustain agricultural output in the face of ongoing land loss.

Minister of Communication and Digital Reveals Sophistication of Hayam Wuruk Online Gambling Syndicate

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid has highlighted the advanced technology employed by an international online gambling syndicate raided in Jakarta's Hayam Wuruk area, including rapid domain changes, foreign servers, camouflaged accounts, and closed communication groups. She emphasised the intensifying collaboration between Komdigi and the police to combat this transnational organised crime through prevention, enforcement, and multi-stakeholder involvement. The raid demonstrates the government's ongoing commitment to patrolling cyberspace and eradicating online gambling, ensuring a safer digital environment.

Bahlil reports progress on addressing problematic mining permits to the Palace

Indonesia's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Bahlil Lahadalia, has updated President Prabowo Subianto on the government's efforts to regulate mining business permits (IUP), particularly those in forest areas and those not operated as intended. This evaluation follows the President's instructions from one to two months ago to address problematic permits, ensuring they deliver economic benefits while maintaining sustainable resource governance. The initiative marks a new phase in national mining sector reform, balancing legal certainty, good governance, resource utilisation, and environmental protection.

Maluku Advocates for Construction of 391 Houses for Conflict Victims to Ministry of PKP

The Maluku Provincial Government is urging the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas to build 391 housing units for communities affected by social conflicts and disasters in four villages. Governor Hendrik Lewerissa highlighted the urgent need for these homes to accelerate social and psychological recovery, noting that many residents still live in damaged emergency tents. He also requested adjustments to the Self-Help Housing Stimulus Assistance (BSPS) programme to better address the archipelago's geographical challenges.

Purbaya: We Have Plenty of Idle Funds to Help BI Strengthen the Rupiah's Value

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has pledged to support Bank Indonesia in bolstering the rupiah, which has weakened to Rp17,500 per US dollar, by deploying surplus budget funds to intervene in the bond market and prevent excessive yield increases. This strategy aims to retain foreign capital inflows and potentially attract more, thereby stabilising the currency amid ongoing depreciation. The government has prepared through simulations to ensure the state budget remains secure, expressing confidence in the central bank's ability to manage the situation effectively.

Bahlil Reports to RI 1: Fuel Oil, LPG, and Crude Oil Stocks Above National Standards

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia assured President Prabowo Subianto that Indonesia's supplies of fuel oil (BBM), LPG, and crude oil are all above the national minimum standards, ensuring no issues in the energy sector. This report was delivered during a cabinet meeting at Merdeka Palace on 12 May 2026, highlighting the government's proactive monitoring of national energy reserves. The assurance underscores the stability of Indonesia's energy supply amid ongoing economic demands.

Indonesia Pledges to Cut Barriers for Foreign Investors

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has convened ambassadors and international business associations to reaffirm the government's commitment to improving the investment climate through the Debottlenecking Task Force for Accelerating Strategic Government Programmes. The initiative addresses business complaints directly, aiming to resolve issues swiftly and refine regulations accordingly, with 142 complaints received since December 2025 and 45 already resolved. Purbaya urged global investors to confidently invest in Indonesia, promising to eliminate all barriers to boost private sector participation and achieve economic growth targets of 8% by 2029.

Rupiah Breaches Rp 17,500, Wave of Layoffs "Haunts" Indonesia's Labour-Intensive Sector

The Indonesian rupiah has weakened sharply to Rp 17,529 per US dollar, with analysts warning of further depreciation to Rp 18,000, exacerbating economic pressures on businesses reliant on imports. This currency slump is expected to drive up production costs, prompting companies to implement major efficiency measures, including potential mass layoffs in labour-intensive sectors. The situation underscores broader vulnerabilities in Indonesia's economy amid global commodity price fluctuations and operational cost hikes.

DPRD Says Blok M Parking Operator Uncooperative, Refuses to Disclose Financial Documents

The Special Committee on Parking of the DKI Jakarta DPRD has accused Best Parking, the operator of parking facilities in the Blok M area, of being uncooperative by failing to provide requested financial documents during an investigation into alleged revenue leakages. Chairman Ahmad Lukman Jupiter highlighted the lack of transparency in matching parking turnover with local revenue contributions (PAD), complicating efforts to trace funds owed to the regional government. This issue underscores ongoing concerns about parking fee mismanagement in Jakarta, potentially affecting public trust and municipal finances.

Social Affairs Minister Disqualifies 11,000 Social Aid Recipients Involved in Online Gambling

Indonesia's Social Affairs Minister, Gus Ipul, has disqualified over 11,000 social aid recipients in the first quarter of 2026 and 75 families in the second quarter for using benefits to fund online gambling, marking a significant reduction in such misuse. He expressed gratitude to the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (PPATK) for aiding in data tracing and announced plans to submit updated Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) data for further cross-checking to ensure aid reaches those truly in need. The disqualification is now permanent, following a previous one-time opportunity for some recipients after verification, with emphasis on guidance to prevent recurrence.

Indonesia's Data Centres: Opportunities and Investments in the Digital Economy Era

Indonesia's digital economy is driving a surge in demand for data centres, positioning the country as a key market in Southeast Asia due to its large population and projected growth in digital services like cloud computing and AI. Global giants such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure are expanding their infrastructure alongside local players like Telkom's Neucentrix and DCI Indonesia, supported by regulations like the Personal Data Protection Law that emphasise data sovereignty. While opportunities abound, challenges including high energy demands and the need for sustainable practices will shape the intensifying competition in this sector.

Distribution of Benefits from the New Blue Carbon Economy in Indonesia

Indonesia holds vast blue carbon potential through its mangroves and seagrass ecosystems, which absorb significant CO2 and position coastal areas as strategic economic assets in the global carbon market. However, the new blue carbon economy risks exacerbating inequalities if benefits are not equitably distributed to local coastal communities, who have traditionally stewarded these ecosystems but lack tenure security and access to carbon trading schemes. To achieve true leadership in sustainable climate finance, Indonesia must prioritise community-based benefit sharing, clarify land rights, and integrate traditional economic activities, ensuring the initiative promotes ecological justice rather than green extractivism.

Asian Energy Market in Turmoil, LNG and Industrial Solar Prices Rise

Global geopolitical tensions have driven up energy prices worldwide, particularly affecting LNG and industrial solar in Asia, with non-fundamental surges linked to supply chain disruptions like potential closures in the Strait of Hormuz. In Indonesia, this has led to a 25-26% increase in unsubsidised 50kg industrial LPG prices to around $28.3 per MMBtu, following global benchmarks like CP Aramco. Additionally, unsubsidised industrial solar prices have risen sharply by 77-84% to approximately $43 per MMBtu as of May 2026, as the country adapts through market-aligned adjustments to maintain economic stability.

Indonesian Navy Uncovers Warehouse Containing 16 Tonnes of Illegal Tin Sand in Banten, Suspected for Export

The Indonesian Navy has dismantled a warehouse in Tangerang, Banten, holding 16 tonnes of illegal tin sand suspected of being prepared for export abroad, following intelligence tracking of two trucks from Tanjung Balai Karimun. The operation, part of broader efforts that thwarted maritime crimes worth Rp14.7 trillion in 2025, revealed discrepancies in documentation linking the shipment to PT Tambang Wancheng Indonesia, with no proper handover records from auction winners. This bust underscores ongoing challenges in curbing illegal mining and smuggling, prompting coordination with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources for further investigation.

2,000 Students Participate in "Jakarta Road Safety Festival 2026" at Ancol

The Jakarta Road Safety Festival 2026, attended by 2,000 junior and senior high school students from across the city, was organised by the DKI Jakarta Transportation Agency in collaboration with education authorities and state-owned enterprises to promote traffic safety education and public transport usage. Officials highlighted Jakarta's improved global rankings in transportation infrastructure and safety, while addressing the high daily rate of traffic accidents and urging emotional maturity among drivers. The event aims to foster a culture of road discipline among youth and boost public transport ridership from the current 22-23% to over 40%.

PTFI Drives Sustainable Economic Growth in Central Papua Through Investment

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) has significantly transformed Central Papua over the past 5-10 years by creating jobs, enhancing education and healthcare access, and fostering local businesses, particularly around its operations in districts like Mimika Timur and Tembagapura. With 40.9% of its workforce now comprising local Papuans and partnerships with over 400 local entrepreneurs, PTFI's long-term investments in training, scholarships, and infrastructure aim to build an independent and sustainable economy beyond mining activities. This commitment underscores the company's role in laying the foundations for Papua's future through human resource development, village economic empowerment, and environmental preservation.

Purbaya Postpones Coal and Nickel Export Duties, Potential Rp 200 Trillion Revenue at Risk

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has confirmed the government's decision to postpone the implementation of export duties on coal and nickel, as well as adjustments to mining royalties, following consultations with Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia. This move, aimed at balancing state revenues from surging commodity prices with industry concerns, could result in the loss of over Rp 200 trillion in potential income. The government is now exploring alternative strategies to bolster revenues from natural resources without burdening businesses.

ASSI: AI Integration to Satellites Becomes Key to Indonesia's Digital Ecosystem

The Asia Pacific Satellite Conference (APSAT) 2026, organised by the Indonesian Satellite Association (ASSI), highlights the critical role of satellite technology in bolstering Indonesia's digital sovereignty, integrating AI, and fostering innovation within the national digital ecosystem. ASSI Chairman Risdianto Yuli Hermansyah emphasised the need for adaptive infrastructure, regulations, talent, and investments to address global challenges like cybersecurity and space sustainability, while leveraging Indonesia's archipelagic geography and population to strengthen its position in the Asia-Pacific satellite industry. This aligns with the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision, promoting economic growth, national resilience, and equitable digital access through cross-sector collaboration involving government, industry, and international partners.

US-Iran War Alert Could Escalate into Nuclear War

Iran's chief negotiator has issued a stark ultimatum to the United States, demanding acceptance of a 14-point peace proposal to resolve the ongoing Middle East conflict or face inevitable failure, amid stalled talks and a fragile ceasefire. Reports indicate President Trump is reconsidering military operations, including potential strikes on Iran, while Iran warns of enriching uranium to weapons-grade levels if attacked again. This escalation raises fears of a nuclear confrontation, highlighting the precarious state of international diplomacy in the region.

Japan Needs Skilled Workers, Indonesia Prepares 3,000 Special Skilled Workers for Miyazaki

Indonesia's Ministry of Protection for Indonesian Migrant Workers (KP2MI) has agreed on a cooperation plan with Japan's Miyazaki Prefecture to strengthen and place Special Skilled Workers (SSW) there, addressing Japan's declining working-age population. The agreement aims to send around 3,000 skilled Indonesian workers to sectors including manufacturing, construction, fisheries, plantations, livestock, caregiving, and hospitality, building on the existing 2,999 Indonesian migrants in the prefecture—the largest from any ASEAN country. This partnership highlights a significant opportunity for Indonesia to export skilled labour amid Japan's depopulation challenges, potentially boosting bilateral ties and economic remittances.

Video: Prabowo's Gift to Riverside Residents - Trump Delays Petrol Tax

President Prabowo Subianto's initiative to provide decent housing for residents along the railway tracks in Senen's Kramat area, Central Jakarta, has reached 99.04% completion by 28 April 2026, fulfilling his instructions for improved living conditions. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has officially supported suspending the 18.4-cent federal petrol tax amid soaring fuel prices affecting Americans due to the Iran war outbreak. This development highlights ongoing efforts in Indonesian urban infrastructure and international responses to energy crises.

Sinaksak-Simpang Panei Toll Road Operates Free of Charge

The Sinaksak-Simpang Panei segment of the Kuala Tanjung-Tebing Tinggi-Parapat (Kutepat) toll road, spanning 12.55 km, has officially commenced operations as of 1 May 2026, with free access for vehicles. This section is equipped with advanced monitoring systems including VMS units, CCTV, personnel, and emergency vehicles to ensure safety. As part of the broader 136.81 km Kutepat toll road, it connects to the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road backbone, facilitating faster travel to Kuala Tanjung Port and Lake Toba tourism destination, reducing journey times from Medan significantly.

Bahlil assures fuel oil to LPG stocks exceed national minimum standards

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Bahlil Lahadalia has assured President Prabowo Subianto that Indonesia's national energy stocks, including fuel oil, LPG, and crude oil, are safely above the minimum standards, with ongoing monitoring to ensure smooth distribution. The government is committing to energy security through stakeholder coordination and plans to import 150 million barrels of crude oil from Russia in phases until the end of 2026, considering options via state-owned enterprises or public service agencies. This initiative aims to bolster supply amid global geopolitical dynamics, prioritising needs of the public and industry.

Nine West Sumatra firms win HIV/AIDS workplace awards

Nine companies in West Sumatra have been awarded for their efforts in creating inclusive, stigma-free workplaces through HIV/AIDS education, screening, and assistance programs. RSIA Restu Ibu and PT KAI Divre II West Sumatra received the highest platinum awards, while others earned gold and silver for their contributions to labour protection and health promotion. Officials emphasised that such initiatives play a crucial role in preventing HIV/AIDS, eliminating discrimination, and fostering healthy, productive environments, encouraging more businesses to adopt similar policies.

Danantara Views Indonesian Capital Market as Lagging in AI Ecosystem

Pandu Patria Sjahrir, Chief Investment Officer of Danantara Indonesia, has criticised the Indonesian capital market for lagging behind global trends in artificial intelligence (AI) and artificial general intelligence (AGI), primarily due to its heavy reliance on traditional banking and mining sectors, resulting in a 20% year-to-date decline in performance. He highlighted how leading Asian markets like Taiwan and South Korea have capitalised on AI-driven growth, exemplified by TSMC's massive market capitalisation exceeding that of entire Southeast Asia, while Indonesia fails to integrate into the global AI supply chain despite its energy potential. Although Indonesian banking stocks offer attractive high dividend yields, Pandu emphasised the need for greater innovation and diversification to appeal to international investors seeking long-term growth narratives.

Ministry of Industry Strengthens Water Treatment Collaboration for Industrial Zones

The Indonesian Ministry of Industry has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Qiaoyin City Management Co., Ltd., and the Indonesian Industrial Estates Association to enhance integrated and circular water and wastewater treatment technologies in industrial zones. This initiative aims to support sustainable, environmentally friendly operations amid rapid industrial growth, with a pilot project in five zones introducing the efficient DIAB technology that reduces costs by 20% and land use by 60%. The collaboration aligns with Indonesia's goals for green industries and net-zero emissions, bolstering investment, job creation, and global competitiveness in the sector hosting nearly 12,000 tenants and 2.35 million workers.

Regulating illegal level crossings must be a priority for safety

Transportation expert Djoko Setjowarno has urged the immediate closure of all illegal level crossings, highlighting their high risk to public safety, with 432 such points identified in PT KAI's Jakarta operational area alone, 138 of which are unguarded. DPR RI Commission V Chairman Lasarus echoed these concerns, noting thousands of unregulated crossings nationwide pose serious accident threats and calling for a comprehensive evaluation of railway operations, accelerated removal of high-risk points, and cross-sector coordination to prevent future tragedies. This push underscores the critical need for central and local government synergy, including budget support, to enhance rail transport safety amid growing urbanisation and infrastructure challenges.

Ministry of Hajj Urges Pilgrims to Conserve Energy Ahead of Peak Hajj Rituals

The Indonesian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has advised all Indonesian Hajj pilgrims to conserve their energy and prioritise rest as they approach the peak rituals of Hajj 1447 H/2026 AD, amid high temperatures in Mecca and Medina reaching 38 to 42 degrees Celsius. Officials emphasised the importance of physical, mental, and spiritual preparation, urging pilgrims to follow health guidelines, report any medical issues promptly, and adhere to movement regulations to ensure safety and discipline. As of the 21st operational day, over 132,000 pilgrims and staff have departed for Saudi Arabia, with Kemenhaj also expressing condolences for a recent loss and commending the efforts of Hajj officials.

Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki Raised to Level III Alert

Indonesia's Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki in East Nusa Tenggara has been elevated from Level II Alert to Level III Alert due to significant increases in deep volcanic earthquakes and non-harmonic tremors, indicating ongoing magma recharge and pressure buildup within the volcano. The decision, announced by Acting Head of the Geological Agency Lana Saria, follows heightened activity from 1-11 May 2026, with patterns resembling those prior to previous eruptions in 2024 and 2025, though shallow parameters remain less developed. This upgrade underscores the potential for small to medium-scale eruptions, prompting enhanced monitoring and preparedness in the region.