Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 12 May 2026

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MPR RI Deactivates Jury Members Dyastasita and Indri Wahyuni, and MC Shindy

The General Secretariat of the MPR RI has deactivated two jury members, Dyastasita Widya Budi and Indri Wahyuni, along with MC Shindy Lutfiana, following a controversy over scoring errors in the provincial-level Smart Quiz Competition on the Four Pillars of the MPR in West Kalimantan. The incident involved an incorrect deduction of points for a correct answer regarding the selection process for BPK members, which sparked public outcry on social media and highlighted issues of fairness in the event. In response, the MPR has issued an apology, acknowledged the oversight, and committed to a comprehensive evaluation of the competition's technical aspects to ensure greater transparency and accountability in future iterations, while appreciating public input on national education initiatives.

Attorney General's Office Optimistic that Ibrahim Arief Will Be Convicted in Chromebook Case

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) expressed optimism that former technology consultant Ibrahim Arief, also known as Ibam, will be found guilty in the corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. Prosecutors have demanded that Ibrahim pay restitution of Rp 16.9 billion, alleging he influenced ministry officials through a technical study to favour Chromebooks, while his legal team seeks acquittal due to insufficient evidence. The case also involves former Minister Nadiem Makarim, with other defendants already convicted, highlighting ongoing anti-corruption efforts in public procurement.

Rupiah Weakens Driven by Expectations of Prolonged High Fed Interest Rates

The Indonesian rupiah weakened by 115 points or 0.66% to close at Rp17,529 per US dollar, primarily due to expectations of sustained high interest rates from the US Federal Reserve, heightened demand for safe-haven assets amid Middle East geopolitical tensions, and rising global oil prices. This depreciation is compounded by domestic factors such as foreign capital flows, investor caution over market transparency highlighted by MSCI, and concerns about government fiscal capacity and corporate foreign debt obligations. While posing risks like imported inflation and increased fiscal burdens, the rupiah's decline offers limited benefits to export-oriented sectors, with Bank Indonesia committed to interventions to maintain stability.

KPK: President's LHKPN is Complete, a Positive Example for Officials

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has verified and published President Prabowo Subianto's latest wealth report (LHKPN), confirming it as complete and submitted on time. This transparency measure sets a positive example for other public officials in preventing corruption through accurate and timely asset declarations. The report details Prabowo's assets totaling Rp 2 trillion as of 2025.

MRT Director Reveals Challenges for Phase 2 Project: Narrow Areas and Cultural Heritage Sites

The Director of PT MRT Jakarta, Tuhiyat, has outlined key challenges in constructing Phase 2A of the Jakarta MRT from Bundaran HI to Kota, including narrow road spaces requiring stacked tunnels up to 28 metres deep and soft soil necessitating ground improvement. Additionally, underground cultural heritage sites pose significant obstacles. Despite these issues, progress stands at 60% overall, with the Bundaran HI to Harmoni segment at 92.5%, targeting operations for Bundaran HI to Monas by late 2027 and full extension to Kota by 2029.

DPR's Legislation Body to Draft 11 Bills, from Wiretapping Bill to One Data Indonesia Bill, During This Session

The Legislation Body (Baleg) of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) is scheduled to draft 11 priority bills during the fifth session of the 2025-2026 parliamentary year, including those on strategic commodities, Aceh governance, wiretapping, indigenous peoples, single data for national development, and protections for gig economy workers. Baleg Chairman Bob Hasan emphasised the urgency of completing these bills, particularly the One Data Indonesia Bill, which has already reached 50 articles out of 130 and is crucial for centralised national planning. Other bills nearing completion include those on Aceh governance and indigenous communities, with additional processing planned for a new oil and gas bill starting with public hearings, all within the flexible schedule from 12 May to 21 July.

Suspected Illegal Blok M Parking Lot Generates Rp100 Million Daily Revenue

An allegedly illegal parking operation at Blok M Square in South Jakarta has been generating over Rp100 million in daily revenue for three years without proper permits, according to the Jakarta Provincial Council's parking special committee. The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government is fully supporting investigations by coordinating with relevant agencies to verify licensing, tax compliance, and management schemes. This crackdown highlights ongoing efforts to eliminate illegal parking practices and ensure transparent revenue collection in the city's diverse parking systems.

KPK Releases Latest LHKPN of Vice President Gibran, Assets Worth Rp 27.9 Billion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has released the latest State Officials' Wealth Report (LHKPN) for Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka, showing his total assets at Rp 27.9 billion as of 2025, an increase from Rp 27.5 billion in the previous year. The report details seven properties in Surakarta and Sragen valued at Rp 17.4 billion, various vehicles worth Rp 286.5 million, securities amounting to Rp 5.55 billion, and cash holdings of over Rp 4.35 billion, with no reported debts. This disclosure underscores transparency in public officials' finances amid Gibran's prominent role in Indonesian politics.

After Egg Prices Plunge, Ministry of Agriculture Urges MBG to Include More Egg Menus

The Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture is pushing for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme to incorporate more egg-based dishes to absorb excess production and stabilise falling egg prices at the farmer level. Director General Agung Suganda highlighted discussions with industry stakeholders to align purchase prices with the National Food Agency's reference of Rp26,500 per kg, aiming to support small-scale producers without significantly impacting consumer prices. This initiative is part of broader government efforts to consolidate support for poultry farmers through cooperatives and nutritional service units.

BYD and Car Inc. Collaborate on 100,000 Rental Vehicles and Flash Charging

Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD has signed a letter of intent with Car Inc., China's largest car rental company, to supply 100,000 vehicles for its rental fleet and establish Flash Charging stations at rental locations nationwide, under the "Flash Charging China Strategy." This builds on prior collaborations, including the delivery of 30,000 BYD vehicles in 2025, and aims to boost adoption of BYD's fast-charging technology amid slowing domestic sales. The partnership highlights BYD's strategy to counter competitors' battery-swapping innovations and directly engage potential customers through the rental market.

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education says IFP and MBG programmes in Batam are running well

Minister of Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has praised the successful implementation of the Interactive Digital Board (IFP) and Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programmes in schools in Batam, Riau Islands, noting their positive impact on students' physical fitness and learning enthusiasm. During his visit, he observed happy and engaged children benefiting from these initiatives, which are part of broader government efforts to enhance educational transformation and support remote areas. The government aims to expand IFP devices to two or three per school this year and prioritise revitalisation in 3T (disadvantaged, frontier, and outermost) regions as per President Prabowo's agenda.

Finance Minister Purbaya Has No Intention of Implementing Tax Amnesty Again, Unless Ordered by the President

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has firmly stated that he will not implement another tax amnesty programme during his tenure, unless directly instructed by President Prabowo. He highlighted the complexities and legal risks associated with the programme, which could create uncertainties and expose tax officials to bribery vulnerabilities. Purbaya urged his team to focus on enforcing existing tax procedures with discipline and integrity to maintain business stability.

Puan Asserts DPR Will Seek Explanation on Why TNI Dissolved Screening of 'Pig Party' Film

House of Representatives Speaker Puan Maharani has instructed relevant commissions to follow up on the controversy surrounding the TNI's dispersal of group screenings of the documentary film "Pesta Babi: Kolonialisme di Zaman Kita," stating that the issue must be addressed properly despite her unfamiliarity with the film's content. Deputy Chairman of Commission XIII Andreas Hugo Pareira condemned the military's actions as a serious violation of citizens' constitutional rights to freedom of expression and artistic appreciation, questioning the necessity of such intervention and warning that the ban could backfire by heightening public interest. This incident highlights tensions between state security measures and democratic freedoms in Indonesia, potentially drawing international scrutiny if the film's critical narrative gains acclaim abroad.

Don't Take Photos and Videos in the Holy Land Without Permission, You Could Face Fines Up to Rp 2 Billion

Indonesian Hajj pilgrims have been warned against taking photos or videos of Saudi Arabian residents without permission, as violations of privacy laws could lead to up to one year in prison and fines exceeding Rp 2 billion. The advisory, issued by Hajj officials in Madinah, highlights a recent case where an Indonesian pilgrim was detained for filming a woman without consent, underscoring the strict enforcement under Saudi Arabia's Cybercrime Law. This serves as a reminder for pilgrims to respect local customs and privacy to ensure a safe and compliant pilgrimage experience.

Sugiono Meets Singapore Foreign Minister, Discusses Energy to Industrial Cooperation

Indonesian official Sugiono met with Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan in Jakarta to discuss preparations for upcoming leadership, advancements in various sectors, and energy cooperation. Key topics included cross-border electricity trade, development of major sustainable power projects, expansion of joint industrial zones in areas like Batam and Bintan, and partnerships in agribusiness and technology. The meeting also addressed regional concerns such as the Middle East situation's impact on energy security, emphasising de-escalation through dialogue, while commemorating 60 years of bilateral diplomatic relations under the 'Rising 60' initiative.

KPK Releases Prabowo's Latest LHKPN, Total Assets Rp 2 Trillion

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has published President Prabowo Subianto's latest State Officials Wealth Report (LHKPN), revealing total assets of Rp 2.066 trillion as of 2025. Key holdings include 10 plots of land and buildings valued at Rp 323.76 billion, eight vehicles worth Rp 1.2 billion, movable assets of Rp 16.4 billion, securities amounting to Rp 1.6 trillion, and cash equivalents of Rp 48 billion, with no reported debts. This disclosure underscores transparency in the president's financial status amid ongoing public interest in political figures' wealth.

Jakarta MRT to Bekasi Targeted for Operation in 2030, Here is the Route

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung has set a target for the first phase of the Jakarta MRT East-West line to commence operations in 2030, connecting Tomang in West Jakarta to Medan Satria in Bekasi. The project is currently in the land acquisition and route determination stages, with the initial segment spanning 24.5 kilometres. This development forms part of a larger 84-kilometre corridor from Cikarang in West Java to Balaraja in Banten, passing through Jakarta, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and public transport infrastructure.

Indonesia links family development with village cooperative push

Indonesia's Population and Family Development Minister Wihaji and Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono have signed a memorandum of understanding in Jakarta to integrate the Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP) programme with national family planning initiatives aimed at supporting mothers. This partnership, aligned with President Prabowo Subianto's emphasis on inter-agency collaboration, will enable the upgrading of business groups into cooperatives, facilitate product marketing and distribution for rural communities, and promote data sharing and advocacy for family-based cooperatives. The agreement underscores the government's commitment to enhancing public welfare through coordinated efforts in family development and rural economic empowerment, with a follow-up plan expected to outline detailed responsibilities.

DPR Speaker Ensures Election Bill Drafted Fairly Without Harming the People

DPR Speaker Puan Maharani has assured that the draft amendment to the 2017 Election Law will prioritise honesty, fairness, and the interests of the public, with ongoing discussions among political parties to ensure the 2029 elections benefit the nation. Civil society coalitions, including Perludem researcher Kahfi Adlan Hafiz, have urged the government and DPR to expedite the revisions based on evaluations of past elections revealing structural issues in regulations. This push comes as preparations for the 2029 polls, including organiser selection, draw nearer, highlighting the need for timely reforms to improve the electoral system.

Gibran Appreciates Jakarta MRT for Absorbing 3,800 Workers

Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka praised the Jakarta MRT Phase 2A project from Bundaran HI to Kota for creating 3,800 construction jobs and adhering to its timeline, highlighting its role in providing safe, comfortable, and modern integrated transport. Accompanied by Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung, Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi, and MRT Jakarta's CEO Tuhiyat, Gibran inspected the Harmoni-Sawah Besar tunnel, emphasising the project's synergy between the provincial government and the Ministry of Transport as a priority under President Prabowo Subianto. With overall progress at 59.76% as of late April 2026, the segment from Bundaran HI to Monas is slated for operation by late 2027, and the full line to Kota by 2029, further boosting urban connectivity.

Purbaya Invites Global Investors to Enter Indonesia, Promises to Eliminate Obstacles

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has convened ambassadors from friendly nations and international business associations to reaffirm Indonesia's commitment to enhancing its investment climate through the Debottlenecking Task Force for Accelerating Strategic Government Programmes. He highlighted the task force's complaint channel, which has addressed 142 grievances since December 2025, resolving 45 and aiming to improve regulations based on real business challenges, with weekly sessions tackling 1-2 cases to foster a more conducive environment. Purbaya urged global investors to confidently invest in Indonesia, pledging swift removal of barriers to boost private sector participation, essential for achieving economic growth targets of 8% by 2029, as government spending contributes only 10% to the economy.

Forced Pickup: Briber of Ombudsman Head Skips Prosecutor's Summons Three Times

The Attorney General's Office (AGO) has arrested Laode Sinarwan Oda, Director of PT Toshida Indonesia, after he repeatedly ignored summons related to a bribery case involving nickel mining governance in Southeast Sulawesi. Laode, suspected of bribing Ombudsman Chairman Hery Susanto with approximately Rp 1.5 billion to manipulate non-tax state revenue calculations, was designated a suspect and detained for 20 days. This development follows Hery's earlier arrest and highlights ongoing investigations into corruption in the mining sector and oversight bodies.

Done! Philippine Parliament Officially Impeaches RI's Neighbouring VP, Could Derail 2028 Presidential Bid

The Philippine House of Representatives has overwhelmingly voted to impeach Vice President Sara Duterte, advancing the process to a Senate trial that could bar her from the 2028 presidential election amid escalating tensions with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Accusations include misuse of public funds, unexplained wealth, and threats against Marcos and his family, which Duterte denies, with her legal team vowing to fight the charges. This political drama intensifies scrutiny on the Duterte dynasty, following previous impeachment attempts and ongoing international legal issues facing her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte.

To Accelerate UMKM Upgrading, Kemenko PM Develops Integrated Business Ecosystem

The Ministry of Coordinating for Community Empowerment (Kemenko PM) has launched the Perintis Berdaya Connect programme in Bandung to foster an integrated ecosystem connecting micro, small, and medium enterprises (UMKM), creative economy players, and cooperatives with strategic partners, aiming to enhance economic independence through active public participation. Deputy Leontinus Alpha Edison emphasised the initiative's role in transitioning communities from reliance on social aid to becoming economic drivers, in line with President Prabowo's directive to strengthen UMKM as the foundation of national economic resilience. The event included dialogues on business aspirations, business matching sessions, and support for legal formalities such as SNI certification, halal certificates, and intellectual property registration to provide comprehensive protection for entrepreneurs.

Deputy Minister of PANRB Pushes for Strengthening Inclusive Public Services in Kupang City

Deputy Minister for State Apparatus Utilization and Bureaucratic Reform, Purwadi Arianto, has urged the Kupang City Government to expand its innovative public service initiatives to make them more accessible and inclusive for residents. During a visit to the city's Public Service Mall, he praised programs such as integrated services, mobile outreach during Car Free Day, emergency health funds, and free wedding vehicles for the underprivileged, emphasising the need for prompt and sincere responses to build public trust. The Mayor of Kupang highlighted additional efforts like inflation monitoring apps, integrated complaint centres, equitable development allocations, and a waste management roadmap, underscoring the city's commitment to addressing community needs effectively.

Former Dirjen of Mendikbudristek Reveals 'Knowledge Gap' Between Prosecutors and Nadiem

In the ongoing corruption trial involving the procurement of Chromebooks, former Director General of Culture at the Ministry of Education, Hilmar Farid, highlighted a significant knowledge gap between prosecutors and defendant Nadiem Anwar Makarim, describing their perspectives as belonging to two different worlds—one focused on innovation and technology, the other on unrelated legal framing. Nadiem's legal team asserted that he had no involvement in the technical procurement process, which was handled by structural officials, with his role limited to signing ministerial regulations on technical specifications for Special Allocation Funds (DAK) from 2020 to 2022. This case raises concerns about the potential criminalisation of educational innovations, which could hinder future transformations in Indonesia's education system.

Visa Processing Services Gain Popularity Amid Rising Demand for Overseas Travel

The demand for international travel among Indonesians for business, education, and tourism is driving increased interest in visa processing assistance services. Companies like Angkasatour offer comprehensive support, including document preparation, form filling, interview scheduling, and application tracking, while ensuring data security and compliance with official procedures. These services streamline the often cumbersome visa application process, providing valuable consultations on requirements and policy updates, particularly benefiting first-time applicants.

IPA Convex 2026 Highlights Geopolitical Risks to Indonesia's Energy Sector

Global geopolitical tensions are posing serious risks to Indonesia's energy sector, which remains heavily reliant on imports, necessitating stronger domestic oil and gas production to ensure national energy security. The Indonesian Petroleum Association (IPA) emphasises the need for aggressive exploration, consistent government policies, legal certainty, and competitive fiscal schemes to attract investments, particularly in unexplored basins in eastern Indonesia and deep-sea areas. IPA Convex 2026 will serve as a key platform for collaboration among government, industry, investors, academics, and youth to address these challenges and foster a competitive investment climate.

DPR Budget Committee Deems State Budget Deficit Still Within Manageable Range

The Indonesian House of Representatives' Budget Committee (Banggar DPR) has assessed that the state budget (APBN) deficit as of March 2026 stands at Rp240.1 trillion, or 0.93% of GDP, well below the annual target of 2.68%. Chairman Said Abdullah dismissed circulating rumours of an impending deficit exceeding 3% or a depleting budget balance, confirming that the remaining budget from 2025 (Rp420 trillion) remains intact, with portions yielding returns from state-owned banks. He anticipates the final deficit could be lower than planned at around 2.56% of GDP, supported by safe mode policies including budget refocusing and financial stabilisers to manage external pressures like rising oil prices and rupiah fluctuations.

Equivalent to Rp 6 Billion Per Day, Prudential Syariah Pays Claims of Rp 2.2 Trillion Throughout 2025

Prudential Syariah reported paying out Rp 2.2 trillion in claims and benefits in 2025, equivalent to Rp 6 billion daily, underscoring its commitment to providing financial security for Indonesian families. The company achieved a 9% growth in gross contributions to Rp 4.2 trillion, with new business contributions surging 31% to Rp 1 trillion, capturing a 22% market share in the sharia life insurance sector. Bolstered by strong solvency ratios exceeding regulatory requirements and innovative AI-supported services, Prudential Syariah solidified its leadership position through a robust multi-channel distribution network.

Former Head of North Sumatra BBPJN Stanley Cicero Examined by KPK as Witness

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has examined Stanley Cicero Haggard Tuapattinaja, former Head of the North Sumatra National Road Implementation Centre (BBPJN), as a witness in a corruption case involving road construction projects in the province. This follows a June 2025 sting operation that led to five suspects being named, including the Head of the North Sumatra Public Works Department and company directors accused of bribery in projects worth Rp231.8 billion across two clusters. The ongoing investigation highlights persistent corruption issues in Indonesia's infrastructure sector, with KPK expanding probes since May 2026.

Airport Train Experiences Disruption, Manggarai-Tanah Abang KRL Journey Affected

PT KAI Commuter reported an operational disruption on the Basoetta Commuter Line (864A) between Tanah Abang and Manggarai, forcing trains to alternate on a single track while technicians address the issue. This has led to journey adjustments, including several trains terminating early at Bekasi station and cancellations of services between Manggarai and Basoetta. The incident highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining reliable public transportation in Jakarta's busy rail network.

DKI's Waste Sorting Programme Not Yet Optimal, Officers in Cilincing, North Jakarta, Still Working Repetitively

In Cilincing, North Jakarta, waste collectors and temporary disposal site workers are compelled to repeatedly sort household waste due to residents' inconsistent separation at source, undermining the efficiency of the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government's waste sorting initiative. Despite guidance efforts, challenges persist from limited collection fleets and the degradation of organic waste over time, leading to some mixed waste ending up as residue sent to final disposal sites. Officials remain optimistic, emphasising the need for ongoing community education to enhance participation and sustainability.

Indonesian Navy Uncovers Shipment of 16 Tonnes of Tin Sand to PIK Warehouse

The Indonesian Navy's Kodaeral III command intercepted two trucks carrying 16 tonnes of tin sand at a warehouse in Pantai Indah Kapuk II, Tangerang, after intelligence indicated an unauthorised shipment from Tanjung Balai Karimun to Jakarta. Initial investigations by the military have raised concerns over the legality of the cargo's ownership and transport documents, involving PT Tambang Wancheng Indonesia. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining and smuggling activities in the tin sector, which is vital to Indonesia's economy.

Heading to the Palace, Cak Imin to Report to Prabowo on Poverty Alleviation to SMK Go Global

President Prabowo Subianto has summoned Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment, Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin), to the Presidential Palace to discuss key initiatives under his purview, including efforts to combat poverty, empower communities, create jobs, and boost MSME productivity. Cak Imin highlighted expansions in market access for MSMEs through 1,001 people's market points, subsidies for training and capital access, and increased KUR financing, with 1,000 MSMEs set to receive loans in Bali. He will also update on the SMK Go Global programme, which aims to send vocational school graduates from impoverished areas to work in countries like South Korea, Japan, the US, and Europe, supported by training and assistance.

KPK examines two former aides of Fadia Arafiq as witnesses

Indonesia's Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has questioned two former aides of Fadia Arafiq, the ex-Regent of Pekalongan, as witnesses in an ongoing corruption case involving procurement irregularities. The aides, identified as AS and SH, appeared at the KPK's Red and White Building in Jakarta on Tuesday, following the commission's seventh hand-catch operation in 2026 during Ramadan. Arafiq, a former dangdut singer, was named the sole suspect in March 2026 for allegedly receiving Rp19 billion in bribes related to outsourcing and other procurement contracts in Pekalongan Regency from 2023 to 2026, highlighting persistent issues of graft in local government.

MP Highlights Subsidised Fertiliser Distribution Delays Amid Fuel Shortages in Several Regions

Indonesian MP Alex Indra Lukman has raised concerns over delays in subsidised fertiliser distribution caused by shortages of subsidised diesel fuel in various regions, exacerbating challenges for farmers. He proposes treating fertiliser transport trucks with the same priority as Pertamina's fuel tankers, especially in disaster-affected areas like West Sumatra, to ensure timely delivery under the new Ministry of Agriculture Regulation No. 15 of 2025. These disruptions threaten crop yields and Indonesia's food self-sufficiency goals under President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita agenda.

Finance Minister Purbaya's Wealth Reported at Rp 57.4 Billion in Latest LHKPN, with No Debts

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has declared assets worth Rp 57.4 billion in his latest periodic LHKPN report submitted on 27 February 2026, marking an increase of Rp 18.2 billion from the previous year's filing when he served as Chairman of the Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS). His largest assets consist of land and buildings valued at Rp 31.6 billion, followed by vehicles and machinery worth Rp 3.6 billion, including four cars and two motorcycles from various brands, with no other assets or debts recorded. This disclosure underscores transparency in public officials' finances amid his high-profile role in Indonesia's economic management.

Purbaya Boasts of Assisting Inpex to Resolve Obstacles in Masela

Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has highlighted the role of the Debottlenecking Task Force in addressing challenges faced by foreign investors, particularly Japan's Inpex Masela Ltd, in advancing the Abadi Gas Field project in the Masela Block, Arafura Sea. The task force provides a one-stop service for complaints and has facilitated progress, including the issuance of environmental impact analysis approvals, underscoring the government's commitment to honouring existing contracts while introducing general regulations for national interests. This initiative aims to boost investor confidence and prevent further delays in the US$21 billion project, which has been stalled for years.

Medan Women's Empowerment, Child Protection, Community Empowerment, Population Control and Family Planning Agency Encourages Fathers' Role in Child Rearing

The Medan City Government is promoting family resilience by encouraging fathers to take an active role in child rearing, moving beyond their traditional role as sole breadwinners. Through an educational event organised by the local Women's Empowerment, Child Protection, Community Empowerment, Population Control and Family Planning Agency (P3APMP2KB), experts highlighted the significant impact of paternal involvement on children's emotional, social, and educational development. The initiative aims to foster positive parenting practices and strengthen social resilience amid contemporary challenges like drug threats to youth.

Germany predicts gas prices will rise due to Middle East conflict

Germany's Federal Network Agency chief, Klaus Mueller, has warned that gas prices in the country will increase as a result of the escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly affecting new contracts despite current household protections for up to 12 months. The conflict, involving US and Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliations, has led to a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting key oil and LNG supply routes from the Persian Gulf to global markets. While the price hike is expected, Mueller anticipates it will not be as rapid as the surges following the 2022 Ukraine conflict.

EU Complains About Slow RI CEPA, Purbaya Threatens to Cut Budget of Obstructing Ministries

The Swiss Ambassador to Indonesia has voiced frustration to Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa over the prolonged implementation of the Indonesia-EU Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IEU-CEPA), which is hindering investments from over 150 Swiss companies eager to expand in Indonesia. In response, Purbaya highlighted the government's Debottlenecking Task Force, led by Coordinating Minister Airlangga Hartarto, as a mechanism to address business obstacles via a dedicated reporting channel. He warned that he could intervene directly by cutting budgets of ministries or agencies delaying progress, leveraging his enhanced authority in his current role.

Ministry of Population and Family Development: Discovery of 11 babies in Sleman a warning for childcare system

The discovery of 11 babies left at a midwife's parents' home in Sleman, Yogyakarta, has been described by the Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga/BKKBN) as a serious alarm for the inadequacies in Indonesia's childcare support system. Officials highlight four structural issues: weak preparedness for young family formation, rising out-of-wedlock pregnancies, insufficient childcare support, and the need for improved state services for vulnerable mothers and infants. In response, the ministry plans to intensify education on reproductive health and marriage preparation for youth, while expanding the Taman Asuh Sayang Anak (Tamasya) daycare system to provide family crisis support.

Attorney General's Office designates PT TSHI owner as suspect in Southeast Sulawesi nickel corruption case

The Attorney General's Office (Kejagung) has named LS, the owner and president director of PT TSHI, as a new suspect in the alleged corruption case involving nickel mining governance in Southeast Sulawesi from 2013 to 2025. LS was arrested after repeatedly ignoring summons and is now detained for 20 days pending investigation, following evidence from witnesses and experts. This development follows the earlier designation of former Ombudsman commissioner Hery Susanto as a suspect, who allegedly received Rp1.5 billion to assist PT TSHI in resolving a non-tax state revenue dispute with the Forestry Ministry.

Strategy to Prevent Online Gambling Must Go Beyond Enforcement

KH Jeje Zaenudin, Chairman of PP Persis, has urged the Indonesian government to prioritise preventive measures against online gambling, following a recent police raid on an international network operating in Jakarta. He praised the police efforts but emphasised that the Ministry of Communication and Digital must actively eradicate gambling websites to curb their proliferation on smartphones. Zaenudin argued that while enforcement punishes offenders, robust prevention strategies are essential to reduce risks, limit new participants, and mitigate substantial financial losses.

Dirjen Bina Marga Inspects Jalinsum to Ensure Accelerated Road Handling

The Director General of Road Infrastructure at the Ministry of Public Works, Roy Rizali Anwar, inspected the Trans-Sumatra Highway corridor from Lubuk Linggau to the Jambi provincial border following a recent traffic accident on the Maur-Terawas section. He expressed condolences to the victims, emphasised the need for inter-agency supervision to prevent future incidents, and awaits official investigation results from relevant authorities. The ministry is committed to accelerating repairs using advanced materials to maintain road quality and user safety across the 98 km corridor, which already boasts a 91% national road stability rate.

Prospective BEI CEO Undergoing Fit and Proper Test Today, Take a Look at the Four Names

Four slates of candidates for the Board of Directors of the Indonesia Stock Exchange (BEI) are undergoing the fit and proper test by an OJK-formed committee today, as confirmed by two prospective CEOs, Jeffrey Hendrik and Iding Pardi. Other candidates include Oki Ramadhana, current CEO of Mandiri Sekuritas and Chairman of BEI, while confirmation for Laksono Widodo is pending; these appointments are for the 2026-2030 period and will be decided at the BEI's shareholders' meeting before the second half of the year. This process underscores OJK's regulatory oversight in ensuring competent leadership for Indonesia's key financial market institution.

BI forecasts stable retail sales performance in April 2026

Bank Indonesia's Retail Sales Survey indicates that the Real Sales Index (IPR) for April 2026 is projected at 231.0, reflecting a monthly decline of 10.0% from March 2026 and a yearly drop of 1.9% from April 2025, following the normalisation of demand after Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. While categories like spare parts and accessories, household goods, and clothing are expected to show annual growth, others such as cultural and recreational goods, food and beverages, and motor fuel are anticipated to contract. Additionally, inflationary pressures are forecasted to rise in the coming months, with the General Price Expectations Index increasing due to higher raw material costs, underscoring potential challenges for economic stability.

Importance of Regular Oversight to Prevent Indonesia Becoming a Hub for Online Gambling

Following a major raid in West Jakarta that apprehended 320 foreign nationals operating an online gambling syndicate, House Speaker Puan Maharani has called for ongoing surveillance to prevent Indonesia from becoming a primary base for such illegal activities. Criminologist Adrianus Meliala noted that international syndicates are shifting operations to Indonesia due to its large market and recent crackdowns in countries like Vietnam, likening transnational crime to a balloon that expands in new areas when suppressed elsewhere. This development underscores the need for sustained law enforcement efforts to curb the spread of online gambling and protect national security.

Attorney General's Office Claims to Continue Hunting Jurist Tan, Not Solely Relying on Interpol

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office (AGO) is actively pursuing fugitive Jurist Tan in the alleged corruption case involving the procurement of Chromebook laptops for the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. While awaiting approval for a red notice from Interpol's headquarters, the AGO is coordinating with various other institutions to aid the search, demonstrating a multi-faceted approach to capturing all fugitives in corruption cases. This effort underscores the commitment to accountability in high-profile corruption scandals, including those involving figures like Mohammad Riza Chalid and Cheryl Darmadi.